Review: The Heart Is a Star

Title: The Heart Is a Star

Author: Megan Rogers

Publisher: 28th April 2023 by HarperCollins Australia

Pages: 284 pages

Genre: contemporary, drama

Rating: 3 cups

Synopsis:

Layla Byrnes is exhausted. She's juggling a demanding job as an anaesthetist, a disintegrating marriage, her young kids, and a needy lover. And most particularly she's managing her histrionically unstable mother, who repeatedly threatens to kill herself.

But this year, it's different. When her mother rings just before Christmas, she doesn't follow the usual script. Instead, she tells Layla that there's something she needs to tell her about her much-loved father. In response, Layla drops everything to rush to her childhood home on the wild west coast of Tasmania. She's determined to finally confront her mother - and find out what really happened to her father - and lay some demons to rest.

The Heart is a Star is an engrossing, lyrical and powerfully absorbing novel about the complicated and beautiful messiness of midlife; about the ways in which we navigate an intricate, complicated world; and about how we can uncover our true selves when we are forced to face the myths that make us.

My Thoughts

The Heart is a Star appealed to me as it promised what many face in real life - daily struggles for a woman of a certain age. Layla is exhausted and is feeling the strain from work and family demands. She has a troubled mother and when she calls threatening to harm herself and claiming there are things she needs to tell her about her father, Layla jumps on a plane to go and see her. 

‘… at night, when Dad held our hands and walked us the fifty paces to the cliff edge, he'd look up at the dome of constellations above us and say, 'I've never seen the stars so bright than they are here. There are two things in this world you can trust, girls: me and the constancy of those stars.’

Firstly, there is much going on in this book with a number of heavy topics, therefore, it was hard to devote the necessary time to do each of them justice. Layla has work troubles, her marriage is in crisis, her young children need her, she is having an affair, her family (mother and sister) are estranged with her mother threatening self harm; and finally, what is the mystery surrounding her father’s death? Can you see what I mean? There is a lot going on. 

‘… as the children began to grow up and need me less, I remembered that I was a person, with desires and passions and interests and a career that I'd spent a lifetime building.’

This led me to be rather conflicted about this book. Whilst I appreciate what the author was trying to do, scaling it back somewhat might have allowed for further development of certain issues. Whether it had been family dysfunction or the role of women or personally my preferred theme, the long held family secret regarding her father and their initial move to Tasmania, time would have been better spent in my opinion developing a singular theme. 

‘We live a double life. The outer life, which is the one we observe at airports and across dinner tables, at school pick-ups and basketball practice. And then, the one beneath. The secret, passionate, inside-our-skin lives; the intense life that no one else sees.’

The Heart is a Star is a slow burn tale that held potential. At its heart I felt it was about family and the fallout of family secrets being kept. Although others may feel they are protecting those they love and care for by hiding the truth, the damage can be unequivocal when finally they are revealed. 

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

 

Review: What Would Jane Austen Do?

Title: What Would Jane Austen Do?

Author: Linda Corbett

Publisher: 16th June 2023 by HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter

Pages: 332 pages

Genre: romance, contemporary

My Rating: 3.5 cups

Synopsis:

It's a truth often acknowledged that when a journalist and Jane Austen fan girl ends up living next door to a cynical but handsome crime writer, romantic sparks will fly!

When Maddy Shaw is told her Dear Jane column has been cancelled she has no choice but to look outside of London’s rental market. That is until she’s left an idyllic country home by the black sheep of the family, long-not-so-lost Cousin Nigel.

But of course there’s a stipulation… and not only is Maddy made chair of the committee for the annual village literary festival, she also has to put up with bestselling crime author –and romance sceptic – Cameron Massey as her new neighbour.

When Maddy challenges Cameron to write romantic fiction, which he claims is so easy to do, sparks fly both on and off the page…

My Thoughts

‘Her experience of women inhabiting country houses was limited to reading - and watching televised adaptations of - Jane Austen books, along with reruns of Downton Abbey. So what would Jane Austen do with her day?’

With Jane Austen in the book title, how could I resist? What Would Jane Austen Do? is a fun, light romance read with an enemies to lovers trope -  just right for that inbetween read. 

‘… after all, Elizabeth Bennet didn’t get her first glance of Pemberley and think, ooh, I bet that will involve a lot of dusting.’

Jane Austen fans will appreciate the carefully selected quotes at the start of each chapter that lightly align with the given theme. However, given the book title, I was expecting stronger Jane Austen ties that in reality were only fleetingly mentioned. This book could easily remove that draw card name and present as a standalone. 

‘Jane Austen would say that if you like someone, make it clear that you do, but don’t put your feelings on public display unless you’re sure they’re reciprocated. Otherwise you’re heading straight into Marianne Dashwood territory.’

 ‘Who’s she?’

Maddy inherits an English manor but of course there is a stipulation that she must live for one year in the home. Intrigued with the inheritance, she investigates this distant cousin and the surrounding mystery; she gets involved in the local literary festival and takes on a cranky lodger and this is where the light romance comes into play. All these aspects come together for an easy paced read and when you add in an adorable dog there is enough to engage readers. 

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Review: Dreaming in French

Title: Dreaming in French

Author: Vanessa McCausland

Publisher: 5th July 2023 by HarperCollins Australia

Pages: 336 pages

Genre: contemporary, women’s fiction

Rating: 5 cups

Synopsis:

A remote French island. A crumbling villa. A reclusive film star. And an inheritance Saskia never expected. The stunning new novel from the critically acclaimed author of The Beautiful Words.

Saskia Wyle spent one sultry European summer on �le de Re when she was nineteen. The bright salt flats and sun-soaked beaches are now a distant memory, and one she made herself forget after an unspeakable tragedy.

But the French heiress she befriended over twenty years ago has left half of her magnificent home to Saskia and the other half to Felix Allard, the now-reclusive film star living on the island. How did Simone Durant die? Was it the family curse that haunted her? And why has she included Saskia in her will after all this time?

Saskia returns to the place of dry-stone walls and ancient olive trees to find that Simone has left her another unexpected gift - a manuscript written in French. Like the lyrical language embedded somewhere in Saskia's subconscious, she must find a way to understand what Simone is telling her. As Saskia once again falls under the island's spell, she must reckon with her past to save what is most precious to her.

My Thoughts

Vanessa has crafted another complex story that will sweep readers away to a remote French island with a mystery that resurfaces after a couple of decades. Vanessa has such a way with words that so eloquently draws her readers in, so poetic in her prose that I often lose myself in the eloquence of her words. 

‘… there's no use in going back, in remembering.

Besides, is the person you were so long ago really the same person you are now?’

The setting, as you can imagine, is picturesque - old French villas, sweet scented orange trees whilst sipping wine and watching the sunset. The cast of characters is complex with each of them on a journey of some form of discovery. The narrative is told in Saskia’s POV for the present timeline and mostly Simone’s POV for the past.

‘Such a tiny proportion of my life and a time before the internet. A time before the eternal cataloguing of information in the ether. Perhaps that's why it all feels so much like a dream I once had. If there is nothing but our memories, how do we know something existed?’

There are various themes and plots in this tale but at its heart is a mystery that unravels slowly with the impact - both past and present - on the main characters. Vanessa tackles some sensitive issues throughout the story but they are handled with care and compassion. Some suffer from anxiety and questions surrounding medicating this condition are alluded to. She touches on eating disorders and there is a powerful take on emotional abuse in a relationship with a clever capture of what it is to be coercively controlled. 

‘She had wondered … convinced herself that this girl never thought about this tiny prism of time in the span of their lives. But now, as time concertinaed, and pressed around her like a bruise, she knew this could not be true … control is life’s ultimate illusion.’

If you have never read any of Vanessa’s books before, I highly recommend you do and Dreaming in French is a great place to start. Immerse yourself not only in a place of sun, salt and sand but also in a well paced mystery from the past that resurfaces in the present. Take a journey with Saskia, Simone and Felix and learn how events played out in a summer of long ago hold ramifications for them and their loved ones in the present day. 

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Review: The Paris Agent

Title: The Paris Agent

Author: Kelly Rimmer 

Publisher: 28th June 2023 by Hachette Australia

Pages: 322 pages

Genre: historical fiction, mystery, WWII

Rating: 5 cups

Synopsis:

Two otherwise ordinary women become spies in WWII France in this sweeping new novel of historical suspense by New York Times bestselling author Kelly Rimmer

Twenty-five years after the end of the war , ageing British SOE operative Noah Ainsworth is reflecting on the secret agent who saved his life when a mission went wrong during his perilous, exhilarating years in occupied France. He never knew her real name, nor whether she survived the war.

His daughter Charlotte begins a search for answers. What follows is the story of Fleur and Chloe , two otherwise ordinary women who in 1943 are called up by the SOE for deployment in France. Taking enormous risks with very little information or resources, the women have no idea they're at the mercy of a double agent within their ranks who's causing chaos.

As Charlotte's search for answers continues, new suspicions are raised about the identity of the double agent, with unsettling clues pointing to her father.

My Thoughts

Kelly Rimmer continues to deliver and once again she packs an emotional punch with her latest, The Paris Agent. In short, it’s an incredible story that you simply must read that is told through a dual timeline narrative from 1944 during WWII and later in the 1970s.

‘Sometimes in war, impossible calculations needed to be made.’

I was left shaking my head upon turning the final page with the adage, ‘people really couldn’t make this stuff up’ - and they don’t! Upon reading Kelly’s Notes at the end of the book readers are enlightened on what was fact and fiction. It is absolutely distressing to realise that some events of pure evil did in fact happen! Based on the true story of WWII agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden (and many others included) readers come to understand (through Kelly’s detailed research) and will find themselves once more overwhelmed by the absolute courage, sacrifice and heartache. It’s nothing but brutal and confronting as Kelly rips your heart out for these characters. 

"The only thing I know for sure is that the war ended because women like Josie stepped up."

Kelly’s writing is unsurpassed with the seamless weaving of timelines, fact and fiction and heartrending emotion. What these SOE agents experienced makes you appreciate and send thanks for the sacrifices that make our lives what they are today. Even the more contemporary timeline of the 1970s (often a weaker link) is so strong with the various threads all being wound together from past and present for a worthy conclusion. 

‘Hold them in your heart at the end," I said to her softly.

"Even when the world around us goes to hell, we can find peace in our minds.”

A box of tissues should never be far from hand when reading a Kelly Rimmer book. A story about duty and diligence, secrets and lies, betrayal and bravery, tragedy and trauma, loss and love. Kelly’s books never disappoint.

“My mother used to say that even in the worst of times, we must look for ways to do good," she said quietly. "I think I had forgotten until just now. So thank you.”

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Review: The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson

Title: The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson

Author: Karen Brooks

Publisher: 5th July 2023 by Harlequin Australia, HQ & MIRA, HQ

Pages: 528 pages

Genre: historical fiction

My Rating: 5 cups

Synopsis:

From the author of The Good Wife of Bath comes this brilliant recreation of the vibrant, optimistic but politically treacherous world of London's Restoration theatre, where we are introduced to the remarkable playwright Aphra Behn, now a feminist icon then an anomaly, who gravitated to the stage - a place where artifice and disguise are second nature and accommodates those who do not fit in.

It's 1679 and into the tumult, politics and colour of Restoration London and its lively theatre scene comes the fierce and opinionated Tribulation Johnson. Cast out from her family as ungodly and unworthy - Tribulation is determined to forge their own remarkable path.

Warmly welcomed by her cousin, the infamous playwright Aphra Behn, Tribulation cannot believe her good fortune as she is thrust into city life, and encouraged to read, write, think and speak for herself. When one of the female actresses at Aphra's company falls sick, Tribulation joins the company, finally becoming a prompter with the the Duke's Company. But little does Tribulation know that Aphra, the woman she adores and seeks to emulate, has her own plans for her acolyte, ones that might put her in the path of danger. In Tribulation, Aphra sees a young woman of incredible talent - a writer, thinker and, ultimately, a honey trap who will expose the Popish Plot as a dreadful and deadly hoax and in doing so, uncover another that will help her enact a long overdue revenge. But Tribulation is not who or what Aphra thinks either, and Tribulation has her own secrets to hide and her own reprisals to pursue...

My Thoughts

‘And still, you never learn.’ ‘But I do. I just refuse to accept the lesson.’ ‘Life is not a series of escapades, Tribulation,’ she said impatiently, quoting Papa, ‘but a matter to be taken seriously. Nevertheless, you’ve been given an opportunity. What you choose to do from hereon is entirely up to you.’

Once again Karen Brooks takes her readers on an epic journey back in time - 1600s England - and introduces her readers to a remarkable independent woman. With her attention to detail and gobsmacking amount of research, Karen crafts a story for the ages about women in history and giving them their voice back through tumultuous times of conspiracy and rebellion. 

The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson is an amazing tale to add to Karen’s shelf of exceptional historical fiction writing. Sensational writing that keeps readers engaged through each and every page with poetic prose, astounding literary references and a cast of characters that command attention. There is never a dull moment with the many twists and turns, danger and drama, hope and healing. 

‘While it was gratifying to be seen, what I truly desired was to be a woman who was heard. Not just uttering words a playwright put in my mouth, or sweet nothings to pander to a man’s pride, but like Aphra, my own considered views and damn the consequences. Time again to wield my pen. Wield my words.’

Set in the brave new world of English theatre where for the first time women were allowed to tread the boards, enter Aphra Behn. A spy and playwright who cut a path for other women to follow that would be felt through the many decades/centuries to follow. Thank you Karen for shining the spotlight on this incredible woman from history and bringing Aphra and her story very much back to life. As Karen wrote in her Author’s Note, “I sought to repatriate Aphra Behn, and present a real working woman - two of them! - seeking to simply earn a living wage and contribute creatively and intellectually to their society.”

‘Through words - words I write, and which actresses like Elizabeth Barry, Mary Lee, Elizabeth Currer, your Charlotte and the rest perform - we speak to the audience, to other women especially. They hear us. They see us. It’s one of the reasons I make sure there’s plenty for my female characters to say. There’s a strength in numbers, Tribulation.’

The creative license Karen claims to take simply enriches what was already a marvelous tale to be told. With attention to detail on every aspect of the novel, Karen’s book is quite outstanding. It is so believable and flows along at quite a pace given its length. Readers walk the streets of London in the 1600s, trod the theatre boards and jeer along with the crowd, geting caught up with Aphra and Tribulation as they face friends and foes. I highly recommend lovers of rich and well researched historical fiction to read The Escapades of Tribulation Johnson. Karen is truly proving herself time and again to be a masterful storyteller, giving voice to women who time and tide refused to hold back. Bravo!

‘One last thing, Tribulation.’ My heart began to do strange manoeuvres. What now? ‘You were never “unnatural”, simply “unconventional”. A woman for whom life is a series of adventures to be savoured. May it always be so.’

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Review: The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully

Title: The Wisdom of Morrie: Living and Aging Creatively and Joyfully

Author: Morrie Schwartz edited by Rob Schwartz

Publisher: 26th April 2023 by Hachette Australia

Pages: 322 pages

Genre: nonfiction, self help 

Rating: 4 cups

Synopsis:

From the eponymous subject of the beloved classic Tuesdays with Morrie comes an insightful, poignant masterpiece on staying vibrant and connected for life. Who am I really? What have I done? What is important and meaningful to me? What difference does it make that I have lived? What does it mean to be truly human, and where am I on that scale?

Morrie Schwartz, the beloved subject of the classic, multimillion-copy number one bestseller Tuesdays with Morrie , explores these questions and many more in this profound, poetic, and poignant masterpiece of living and aging joyfully and creatively. Later life can be filled with many challenges, but it can also be one of the most beautiful and rewarding passages in anyone's lifetime. Morrie draws on his experiences as a social psychologist, teacher, father, friend, and sage to offer us a road map to navigate our futures.

 A great companion to Tuesdays with Morrie or the perfect introduction to Morrie's thoughtful philosophies, The Wisdom of Morrie is filled with empathic insights, stories, anecdotes, and advice, told in Morrie's reassuring, calm, and timeless voice. Let The Wisdom of Morrie be your guide in exploring deep questions of how to live and how to love. 

My Thoughts

‘Later life is a special period of development, with unique limitations and opportunities. And it may be the most important phase of your life. You can change a lot in later life - if you really want to.’

Many readers will be familiar or have heard of Mitch Albom's best-seller Tuesdays with Morrie - Morrie Schwartz, professor of sociology and therapist. The Wisdom of Morrie is a manuscript edited by his son, Rob, and looks at ways to live and age creatively and with joy. Rob edited his father’s manuscript that contains a range of essays and reflections on aging. 

This book provides wisdom, inspiration, case studies and ideas on how to live your best life as you age. It stresses the desire to rethink aging and learn to find joy even if faced with mounting challenges that may come with the territory. For readers who find themselves, or know of someone in this age bracket, this book offers insight on how to adapt and make the most of one’s life. 

A different book to the original in terms of the layout and style, it is still infused with trademark wisdom and a philosophy to adopt a more positive outlook with this precious time we have been given. 

‘…. take a broader view by looking into our entire life, accepting it as it was and as it is, to try to find its meaning and coherence. And who knows? We may come to a better understanding of who we are and what we've lived through. It is an attempt to … identify and use the wisdom we've acquired, the humanity we've developed, and the spirituality we've connected with, to improve the quality of our own and other lives.’

This review is based on a complimentary copy from the author in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.