2014 Reading Challenge: Book 16 - The Judas Scar

The Judas Scar by Amanda Jennings
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. It was sent to me as part of the Britmums book club and from the cover, I wasn't quite sure what type of book it would be.

I really liked the characters Will and Harmony and although I did like Lukes character, I would have liked to of known more about his adult life, although I'm thinking that keeping him a mystery is part of the suspense of the book.

The theme of bullying running through the book is something that most people can relate to, and as someone who was bullied at school, I think it was done well, especially in how it highlights the effect on your adult life.

I found this to be a well written book, which kept the mystery for most of the book. Quite often with these types of books, it is pretty transparent, but this one had plenty of surprises along the way.

A fantastic read and great for book clubs as there is plenty of discussions that could be had from it.

Jackie. x

2014 Reading Challenge: Book 11 - Above All Things

Above All Things by Tanis Rideout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was sent this book to read as part of the Britmums book club. I wasn't sure what to expect from the book, as it's not something I would normally pick up, but I do like a love story and the 1920's, so I decided to give it a go. I'm so glad that I did! It wasn't until I was about 1/2 way into the book that I realised that it is a fictional book based on real historical events. I made the mistake of googleing George Mallory and of course, in doing so, I did spoil the ending a little for myself.

I loved the way the book focuses not just on George's side of the story, but also from Ruth's side as well. I did find Ruth's narration a little confusing in that she flits from telling a story to 'talking' to George, but I thought this also added to the emotional side of it. I also enjoyed reading Sandy's point of view as well.

I have never read or watched anything about mountaineering before, so I don't know how factual the technical side of the story is, but it felt realistic as to how they would have been feeling physically and emotionally.

In summary, this is a well written story with drama and romance added in. Whether you are interested in the story of George Mallory or just after a good book to read, this is a fantastic read.

Jackie. x

2013 Reading Challenge: Book 17 - The Buddha In The Attic

Recently I joined the BritMums Book Club group and for August we were sent this book to read.  I am so glad that I joined this group and look forward to the next book.

The Buddha in the Attic by Julie Otsuka
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a beautiful story telling the tale of various Japanese women in their journey to the United States to join the husbands that most of them haven't met. The book starts off in the boat journey over from Japan and ends with the Japanese Internment in 1942.

The way the story is written from so many different points of view is very unique and very well done. Although it is hard to attach to any one particular character, you do feel for all the women together as a whole. Some of whom you don't even get to know their names.

I would recommend this book as a must read for anyone and will be looking out for the authors previous book 'When the Emperor was Divine'.

Jackie. x