The Wish List by Jane Costello

The Blurb:

There are six months left of Emma Reiss's twenties...and she has some unfinished business. Emma and her friends are about to turn thirty, and for Emma it's a defining moment. Defined, that is, by her having achieved none of the things she'd imagined she would. Her career is all wrong, her love life is a desert and that penthouse apartment she pictured herself in simply never materialised. Moreover, she's never jumped out of a plane, hasn't met the man she's going to marry, has never slept under the stars, or snogged anyone famous - just some of the aspirations on a list she and her friends compiled fifteen years ago. As an endless round of birthday parties sees Emma hurtle towards her own thirtieth, she sets about addressing these issues. But, as she discovers with hilarious consequences, some of them are trickier to tick off than she'd thought…

 

My Review:

A book all about the concept of someone turning 30 and the things to do before their birthday - perfectly apt for me so thought I had to read it. The story took a while to get going, but once you got into the plot it developed quickly. There was an underlying love story which develops throughout the book. This to me made the book more exciting and interesting to see where it was going.

 

The ideas that the main character Emma had and achieved were not unrealistic. A story like this had the potential to go overboard with ideas but Jane Costello got the balance just right. It showed the struggle of trying to achieve a list like this, yet at the same time it showed how much fun something could be when you put your mind to it!

 

Overall rating: 7/10 - You kind of knew what was going to happen in this book based on the concept. However, it is still a fun-packed book with romance, tears and friendship. Definitely for those who (like me) will be turning a big milestone age - it made me think about what I would want to achieve before my 30th. Great for anyone wanting a light-hearted happy book. A fantastic read for a holiday with friends as it would inspire you to discuss your wish list with them and have a giggle about it! 

Jenna's Journey by Julie Ryan

The Blurb:
When Jenna decides on a whim to go to Greece, she's trying to escape her failing marriage. Will Greg let her go so easily though? Can she make a new future for herself and how did she get involved in an antiques smuggling ring? Is fellow holidaymaker Tom all he seems and will it be happy ever after with Nikos? It's not until twenty-five years later that some of the questions are finally answered.

My Review:
A rather interesting and action-packed story! A different concept of a book with an alternative ending just when you thought you had reached the end. Definitely full of twists and unexpected events, which makes it a great read. In places the high number of characters can make it confusing - but stick with it and you soon get back on track with what's happening.

The book is mainly set in Greece and it definitely captures the Greek way of living, pictures the scene well and makes you want to visit! Unlike many books, the Greek characters seem authentically Greek and you can really imagine such people exist! As so much happens in this book there is never a dull moment and its very unpredictable as to what will happen.

Overall rating: 7/10 - Parts can be confusing but if you concentrate it all makes sense in the end! A lot to take in - I found myself needing to flick back and double check to see what had happened in previous pages. It was though an action-packed read, never leaving you bored and made you want to read on. I would recommend to those who like a more complicated action based book which is quite unusually written. One who wants a book you can lose yourself in and imagine being in a place where you would love to visit. Great whilst on holiday in a real hot country or definitely one to read on a plane to a hot destination!

The Rose Petal Beach by Dorothy Koomson

A chick lit with more to it than the normal traditional read. A story about family life, how it can go wrong and how different personalities cope. Additionally to this there is the added suspense of a murder and guessing which characters to trust and who is telling the truth. The book is written in the view of 5 main characters so you get to know each one well. A complex plot, but well written so you get to really understand each persons view point. One of the most fascinating things about this book is seeing how each character copes with the situation and how different personalities behave differently in difficult circumstances. 

Throughout the book the story deepens as you learn more about what has happened and it definitely contains some unexpected twists. There is a lot of emotion in the book and you really feel for the main character Tamia who has been stuck in the middle of the situation. She comes across as a vulnerable character making you warm to her. Not all characters in the book are pleasant which I always find adds to the enjoyment of a book, making it more realistic almost.

Overall rating: 8/10 - I personally enjoyed the excitement of trying to work out who to believe and what the outcome of the murder investigation was going to be. The book was not all about the murder which was a good thing - a lot of in-depth character insight was the main aspect of this book. Having been a fan of Dorothy's previous books, this didn't disappoint and it was possibly my favourite Dorothy Koomson's book so far! I would recommend to those that like a book that keeps you guessing, one which sees a story from different viewpoints and one that you can take your time reading. Definitely a book that makes you think and great for a more chilled holiday, where you have time to concentrate and speculate over a book! It would also be a fantastic book for a long journey where you want something to take your mind off your travelling and make it go quickly!

The Loveliest Chocolate Shop in Paris by Jenny Colgan

A book all about chocolate - what more could you ask for? Such a lovely story which makes you feel both happy and sad! Two stories intertwined - a story from the past features alongside modern day, with both following a similar path. Set in Paris you get to know the city and get a glimpse of what relocating to a new place feels like. A real insight into the emotions that it brings and the challenges you face. Main character Anna is lovable and interesting and you can't help but want her to succeed. 

This book shows you how precious life is and how memories are sometimes what keeps you going. The ending is emotional, yet it is also a happy ending too. There is a lot of love, fun, heartache and chocolate in this book. Very well written and it really captures the ups and downs of life.

Overall rating: 8/10 - I would recommend to those who love complex emotional books. Anyone who has a fond memory of a place and knows how important those memories are. Ideal for those who would love to know more about chocolate or Paris.  All in all a classic romance novel. 

The Power Trip by Jackie Collins

The front of the book describes it as "A sexy sun-drenched thriller" and this exactly what it was! A book based on a holiday - whereby 6 couples all powerful, famous and interesting - embark on a paradise holiday together. You get to understand each character really well and they all lead very interesting lives - one a footballer, one a movie star and one a politician.

There definitely is a raunchy side to the book but it did add something. It made it more realistic almost and helped with defining the characters personalities. The story was easy to follow and did draw you in with lots happening every chapter. There were so many aspects of the story with all the characters intertwining it worked well. There was an exciting build-up to the end which led to a dramatic ending. A love story also developed throughout the book too.

Overall rating: 9/10 - different from my usual choice, had a fantastic story where a lot happens. It helps that it is set in a lovely hot place, you can really imagine the beautiful scenery. Fantastically written and not too over the top on the raciness. You really get to know each character and you want to be on holiday with them! I would recommend to those who want a real escapism book - one that takes you to a real nice setting and that you can lose yourself in! Set in a tropical destination, great for a relaxing holiday read. Definitely one with a deeper storyline, exploring each character one by one. It also gives you a real insight into what it would be like to be famous! All in all a fantastic, unmissable great holiday read! 

The Last Time I Saw You by Eleanor Moran

Although the whole book does have an overall sadness to it, Eleanor Moran still captures warmth and happiness, and portrays it with the correct balance between good and bad times. This book is based around two friends at university, the ups and downs of their relationship and the adventures they share together. Unfortunately they lose touch and now one of them has died. Throughout the book their friendship is slowly unravelled and snippets of their time together is revealed, understanding the dynamics of the relationship as the book progresses. There is also a love story developing, yet it is not predictable as to what will happen.

This is a book that grips you right from the start - you want to read on to understand and get to know the characters better. It portrays the intense friendship of the main characters very well, understanding how they view each other. A very cleverly written book.

Overall rating: 8/10 - straight from the beginning you want to read on. The characters friendship is complicated - yet I am sure we can all relate to having a friend like this. A heart-warming ending, although you do feel it is slightly morally wrong. Ideal for those who enjoy a book that the story slowly unravels and for those who like a good old romance. Maybe not the best for those looking for a really upbeat and happy holiday!

Any Way You Want Me by Lucy Diamond

This book follows the story of a mum struggling to cope, stuck at home looking after two children. Sadie just wants to feel alive and to be loved again - to be more than just a housewife. It captures very well the thoughts and feelings of the main character and almost justifies her playing away and having an affair. A well written story as you should not agree with what she is doing, yet you can tell she is desperate and you feel sorry for her.

As the story develops, Sadie gets herself in caught up in the world of having fun and you see a personality shift to someone who is much happier and more confident. The ending brings around questions about morals, but she does make the right decision.

Overall rating: 7/10 - I was a little unsure about the lack of an exciting plot, yet with this book you get so caught up in the characters world, you do not miss a strong story. I would recommend to those who want an emotional book, one that's slightly different to the norm, and one that truly captures a mid-life crisis. Good for someone who feels they are also struggling with bringing up young children as it shows that no mum is perfect.

Kiss Like You Mean It by Louise Harwood

A lovely insight into the glamorous world of Hollywood! This book is based around the making of a blockbuster that was set in The Great War, so it definitely has more depth than the average holiday read. I found that both the modern day story and the snippets of the past were very gripping encouraging you to read on. As this book is based on a movie set, you feel you are there and you can really lose yourself in the setting.

As you continue to read you can feel a love story developing, however it is not obvious how it will end so you are constantly speculating. The main character Ella is a loveable, naïve make-up artist who is easily persuaded. You almost want to stand up and protect her as you really feel her vulnerability come through. A great ending, unpredictable and not too cheesy!

Overall rating: 7/10 - a slightly slow beginning, it took a few chapters to get stuck into it. Once the story got going you couldn't put it down! The twist with the War story (which is rather romantic in itself) brings an extra dimension which was needed in this book. Recommend for those interested in the glamorous lifestyle of Hollywood and what it's really like to be a famous movie star! Those holidaying in France may enjoy this too as it captures the heart of a French City and also those who like a book where 2 stories intertwine.

Whatever It Takes by Adele Parks

Having read Adele Parks' books before I had high expectations, and I am pleased that this book did not disappoint! A lovely story about adult life, making friends, coping through tough times and enjoying the good times. The characters in this book are very well defined, getting a real feel for each one. You really connect with the characters leaving you feeling sorry for a few of them - one suffering from Alzheimer's, one trying for a baby -  and hope they get the happy ending they deserve. This book made me cry, smile and surprised me in places.

Chapters are set as months so a lot happens in this book over a year or two. You get a lot of insight into the main character Eloise's life and how kind and generous she is to her family and friends. The book is not set around one grand ending so it's hard to predict what will happen which makes it even more gripping.

Overall rating: 8/10 - A very well written, complex book. The characters stand out and emotion overcomes you. An unexpected ending and the way the book flows adds to the enjoyment of the read. I would recommend to those who like more depth to characters, with more emotions and a real insight into their lives. This book does have a happy ending, however, there is an on-going sadness throughout the book, so definitely not the traditional chick-lit. Someone who is on a boating holiday or on a country-side retreat will enjoy reading about similar scenery.

New York Valentine by Carmen Reid

Straight from the first page you can tell this book will be a fun, girly, chick-lit with a lot of fashion talk! The story is about a personal shopper trying to balance motherhood with work, when a new challenge crops up. Each chapter starts off with a description of one of the characters outfits which gives this book the unique factor.

The main character Annie is lots of fun and full of energy and very loveable. The book is set in Ireland then New York, and Carmen Reid really captures the spirit of New York. It is a book that makes you want to read on, it gives you a good insight into the fashion world and how determination really does pay off! Not too predictable either, the book throws a few surprises along the way.

Overall rating: 8/10 - A more typical holiday read - gripping, fun, girly and thrilling. The plot is not too cheesy, a variety of characters makes it interesting and more exciting to read. I would recommend to fashion followers who love chick-lits and anyone who has been to New York or wants to go it really gets you excited about the city. 

Would I Lie To You? by Clare Dowling

A lovely tale of three friends who get together and catch up whilst holidaying in France. A more mature story than the normal chick flick, however it still draws you in and makes you want to read on. A lot of the story is set on a farm which makes it different and you can really imagine the characters on holiday together enjoying themselves.

The lead character Hannah and her two friends are all going through issues you can relate to, so it's easy to follow this book. The situation is based around something that you may have come across in the past and it's interesting to see what path the story takes. A good but not too predictable ending which leaves you with an overall happiness.

Overall rating: 7/10 - A good plot, different to the average chick-lit. You want to read on to find out how the situation is dealt with how the story will end. I would recommend to those who like a more mature book (characters are mid-thirties with families) and nothing too cheesy. It would also appeal to those travelling to France, a country home or someone who likes a more chilled out book. 

Don't You Forget About Me by Alexandra Potter

A very cleverly written book in the sense that you really want the main character Tess to end up with the right guy and not pick wrong one! The way it is written portrays one character as less endearing as the other, so you are rooting for the happy ending (which luckily does happen).

An easy read, however, it does not draw you in as much as other books I have read. For me personally it is based on an unrealistic storyline which always frustrates me in a book. A "wish" is granted and Tess' previous relationship is wiped away allowing her to start again. You almost can't relate to the book from the beginning due to this ridiculous plot.

Overall Rating: 6/10 - Ruined by the silly plot, but an easy read and nice romantic ending which is always heart-warming. I would recommend to those who like books that make you feel connected to the characters and happy endings. Would be a good book for anyone trying to get over an ex-boyfriend too! 

The Woman Who Went To Bed For a Year by Sue Townsend

A different type of book to my normal choice and I am not entirely sure that I enjoyed it! The storyline was a little ridiculous and to me it was too far-fetched to be enjoyable. The book had a mixed bunch of characters a lot of whom were unlovable and just in there to make it more humorous. However, this book didn't really make me chuckle - maybe I was missing the point of the book? If anything I found it quite a disturbing book in the sense that it reinforced how people break down in difficult times.

Throughout the book I found it hard to predict what was going to happen (which isn't always a bad thing) but I felt the ending was a slight let down, I was expecting more. It was however, an easy read and it did make you think about situations in life and how you would deal with them. It also emphasises the fact that judging people is wrong.

Overall rating: 4/10 - A bit pointless and couldn't relate to many of the characters as they had strange personalities. If anything I felt the book had an overall sadness. When you are on holiday you want to be reading a more uplifting book rather than one that makes you think. I would recommend to those who like an easy read, it is a book that makes you want to keep reading. Also this book makes you think so ideal for those who like more of a life lesson read.

The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins

Wow, wow and wow! It took a while to decide whether I was going to read The Hunger Games, the plot seemed a bit far fetched for me and I was not sure i could stomach a book involving a lots of fighting. But oh my gosh, this has to be one of my all time favourite books. The story is written in such a way that you need to keep reading with most chapters  ending on a cliff edge! There is a lot to take in and imagine, but it is written so well you can really picture the scenes and somehow it does not seem unrealistic.

As the plot develops the games begin and you really feel for the main character Katniss and you want her to win. Then you wonder at the end of the first book how on earth can they make 2 more books out of this? Well Suzanne did it and both the next 2 books had the same effect on me. I had to pace myself and read another book in between as I was just so obsessed with finding out what was next!

To me the real storyline was the love interest. As a romantic myself it was so lovely to see the relationship survive even though it was tested so much throughout the books. All 3 books were as good as each other and surprisingly for me a book i could never get bored of reading over and over again.

Overall rating: 10/10 - You have to read to see what all the fuss is about! Be sure to take all 3 books on holiday with you or you will regret! I would recommend to anyone who wants a break from the traditional chick flick and who likes a book that you can feel that you are there involved in the action. It would also appeal to those hopeless romantics like me too!

Santa Baby by Katie Price

Anyone who has read a Katie Price book before definitely knows what to expect! As cheesy as it is, you can't but help enjoy this book. It is such an easy read - you can pick it up and put it down anytime, yet the story returns to you instantly.

 

The book feels like real life and it is rather believable giving you an insight into what it would be like to be famous! It ties in with previous books, but also works as a book on its own. It deals with normal thoughts and feelings and does not try to make everything too complicated, but yet it is still gripping. A tale of a family, celebrity life, love and new beginnings it is captivating and a good read (although I hate to admit it!)

Overall rating: 8/10 - it is a book you can read all year round not just at Christmas. A perfect holiday read as it is such an easy can't put down book. I would recommend it to anyone who likes a book that you can power through quickly as you just can't put it down. Those who also like the classic chick flick books will love this. Perfect for anyone going on a winter get-away holiday as well! 

Welcome to Rosie Hopkins Sweet Shop of Dreams by Jenny Colgan

Jenny Colgan never disappoints and I have loved all her previous books. The sweet shop theme of the book takes you back to your childhood which you can't help but love. Every chapter starts off with describing a traditional old fashion sweet which really makes the book different and quirky. You get a good picture of what the sweet shop this book is set in would really be like.

This book also has an insight into the main characters aunt's life too through flashbacks throughout which makes it exciting. All the characters are very lovable and you really get an insight into the village life. It definitely is a book that makes you want to read on, but at the same time you want to savour the next chapter so that you can feel that excitement of being in a sweet shop again.

Overall rating: 7/10 as it has more than one dimension and it is fantastic the way it captures what it would actually be like to live in a village and own a sweet shop! I would recommend this to anyone that likes a book that has more than one story running at the same time, who enjoys an insight into village life and of course anyone who loves sweets! 

The Garden Party by Sarah Challis

This book follows the story of one main central character (Alice) and her grown-up children. They all have complicated lives and the whole book leads up to a celebratory garden party. The book had it's ups and downs, sections of it are very addictive and you want to read on, but as there are so many characters in the book it can get quite confusing remembering who exactly everyone is.

As there are so many characters you do have the benefit of multiple side plots going on all at the same time. It is nice to see a book with characters going through day-to-day worries that readers may have faced.

Overall rating: 6/10 - Too many characters to keep track of and you start to loose your interest. This would appeal to those who want to their full attention to a book - it is not one to pick up and put down too often. It would also interest those who like idyllic and happy ending reads.

Amy's Honeymoon by Julia Llewellyn

An unexpectedly fun, easy read. This grabbed my attention due to the honeymoon title and very much so exceeded my expectations. The way it the book has snippets of flashbacks creates interest and makes you want to read on. It's nice to read a book set in Rome, with a celebrity as a main character so you get a glimpse of Hollywood life!

It has that ability in a book for you to love and hate some characters which makes you feel more involved in the story. To me it leaves you guessing as to how it will end. There are a few different ways that it could finish and I think the author Julia Llewellyn does a great job in not going for a real cheesy end!

Overall rating: 7/10 - A really easy gripping read and a classic chick-lit. Appeals to anyone on holiday in Rome or enjoys an upbeat read and likes a bit of romance. 

Finding Mr Flood by Ciara Geraghty

This is a book takes a while to get into. The story kicks off straight away, but I felt that you did not warm to the characters until a few chapters in. Do not give up though, as the story really does draw you in with a love interest developing along the way. The main character Dora is a lovable, vulnerable women and you feel you grow with her in such a crucial stage in her life.

All she wants to do is help her Sister who she is so faithful to and on the way she discovers who she is too. The ending is a good one and unexpected and definitely made me shed a tear which is rather unusual for me!

Overall Rating: 6/10 - due to such a slow start - I did nearly give up but glad I stuck with it. This book would appeal to those interested in complicated family life, a less traditional chick-lit book as it contains more emotion and has lots of ups and downs. Would appeal to those who likes a book to develop to build up to a grand finale.

The Real Katie Lavender by Erica James

A real heart-warming book based on a women trying to discover herself and a family she did know existed! The characters in this book are all very loveable and you can really lose yourself into the family. Written fantastically so that you really get a sense of being part of the family and you can just imagine that you are at the country house it's set in with them all.

There was a real risk of feeling that the storyline was a bit far-fetched, however you do get involved and the plot seems rather normal! Decisions taken are done with a sense of honesty and the main character Katie has a vulnerable side to her.

Overall Rating: 8/10 - as it leaves you with that "ahhh" feeling inside. This book would appeal to people who love happy endings, romantics and anyone who enjoys an easy (but addictive) read.

White Wedding by Milly Johnson

Anyone who recently got married or is planning a wedding will know that you are instantly drawn to wedding related books! Having recently got married myself, I am obsessed with anything wedding related. White Wedding draws you in right from the beginning splitting the book into 3 weddings intertwined into each other. Who could not love a book set around choosing the perfect wedding dress?

It's short chapters makes you eager to keep reading and turns this book into one of "those" you can't put down. As always things don't turn out as you would think, but this book really tugs at your heart strings with the coming together of such lovable characters.

Overall rating: 7/10 - due to its addictiveness, but it is admittedly a very "girly" book. If you love romance and love weddings (like me) then this is a winner! Stay away from it if you don't like the lovey dovey type books!