One Day by David Nicholls

I had watched the film before reading this book and having now read it, I do prefer the film.

The book was easy to read and interesting, and I found Emma to be a very likeable character.  Less so with Dexter, and if I hadn't have watched the film then I don't think I would have liked him at all.

I found that the ending was much more moving in the film, not being so powerful when read.

I'm glad I've read this one though as I know a lot of people who have and it's had a lot of good reviews.

Title: One Day
Author: David Nicholls

Brown Owl's Guide to Life by Kate Harrison

There are two reasons I read this book.  One, I've read another of Kate Harrison's book, The Secret Shopper's Revenge, which wasn't brilliant but was quite a pleasant read; and two, because I'm a Brownie Leader, and therefore an Owl myself!


This was what I'm now beginning to think is typical Kate Harrison, not a gripping page-turner of a book, but perfect if you just want a quick, easy, nice read.


An obvious plus for me was the reference to Brownies, but as someone who was once I Brownie myself I didn't really believe the story - I can't imagine my Six deciding to meet up over twenty years later - but maybe I was just in a bad pack!


I'm beginning to judge how much I like a book by whether or not I decide that everyone else I know needs to read it, and this one I haven't passed onto anyone, not even the other Brownie Leaders I know.  Make of that what you will!

Title: Brown Owl's Guide to Life
Author: Kate Harrison

The Scarpetta Factor by Patricia Cornwell

Every now and again I like a good crime book but unfortunately this wasn't one of the good ones.


I found it quite hard to follow in places, which I don't think was helped by the fact that most of the main characters had similar names, all beginning with 'B'.  Confusing to say the least.


I found that as the book went on it wasn't really compelling me to want to find out what happened at the end, but I persevered and got through it!


Back to the Chit Lit for me I think...

Title: The Scarpetta Factor
Author: Patricia Cornwell

The Only Way Is Up by Carole Matthews

This book is a really easy read, it's light hearted storyline reminded me of Sue Townsend's 'The Queen and I'.  I thought the characters where interesting and it's another one I didn't want to put down.

I'd love to try some more of Carole Matthews books now, because if they're all like this then I have a feeling I will enjoy them!

Title: The Only Way Is Up
Author: Carole Matthews

How To Be A Woman by Caitlin Moran

I loved this book. Period.

If I'm honest I didn't realise it was a feminist book when I bought it, thinking it was just going to be a funny read.  But I'm glad it was written by a femininst because reading it has changed my understanding of feminism - it really isn't all about lesbian hating men! Who knew!

If you want a laugh-out-loud read then this is the book for you.  I was constantly laughing reading this book.  At one point it had me in a hysterical giggling fit, with tears streaming down my face, unable to explain to my bewildered boyfriend why it was so funny, because until I'd calmed down, I couldn't form any words!

The author covers some interesting, and sometimes contraversial topics (abortion for instance).  I think every woman would be able to relate to at least some parts of this book, and would even go as far as to suggest that men would find it a good read (bits of it would probably shock them, but it would be an enlightening read for sure!)

Title: How To Be A Woman
Author: Caitlin Moran

The Woman in Black by Susan Hill

I really enjoyed this book.  It was much better than the film (which I found a bit disappointing).   I liked the way this story was told and it was interested to note the differences between the book and the film.

I didn't think it was scary but it was certainly an interesting story, and the author did an excellent job at conveying Arthur's fear and uneasiness during his experiences in the old house.

At only 200 pages, it would be great for anyone wanting a quick read.

Title: The Woman in Black
Author: Susan Hill

The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards

I heard a lot of good things about this book but it wasn't as good as I expected it would be.


I felt it took a while to get going and probably the first half of the book was a bit slow.  The last half of the book was better though and I was interested to see how the book ended.


The style of writing is incredibly descriptive and the author paints some very vivid pictures as you read the book.


Not one of my favourites but an enjoyable read non-the-less. 

Title: The Memory Keeper's Daughter
Author: Kim Edwards