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.