Being Bookish

This week I’m diving into Metal Slinger by Rachel Schneider, a relatively recent romantasy release set in a world divided by sea and shore, where magic, loyalty, and love collide. Political intrigue, magical powers, manipulation and a lost princess have important roles to play. As always, these are just my personal thoughts. I’ll be taking a look at how the world-building, pacing and romance contribute to the story, and of course, the entire episode is 100% spoiler-free. Not every book is for every person, but could this one be for you? And stay tuned to the end of the episode for a quick review of The Grimoire Grammar School Parent Teacher Association by Caitlin Rozakis, a witty, magical contemporary fantasy that’s full of charm and chaos. So pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books. Episode Links Warrior Princess Assassin Shield of Sparrows Katrina's Review of Fifty Shades of Grey

What do you do as a reader when things change in your life that you have no control over? You pick yourself up, of course, and head to the bookshelf for something to read to get you through it. At least that's the plan. So, when my life took a bit of a meh turn this week, I did exactly that, but what books did I pick up? The episode is a little shorter, but still, books are at the core, so join me with a cup of tea and hear my thoughts as I go through the books that get me through.

This week I am really happy to have had the opportunity to chat with author Heidi Swain who is the Queen of Seasonal Romances. Her latest novel, All Wrapped Up, takes us to autumn in the town of Wynbridge, where love may (or may not) be in the air for the latest residents. We're talking all things bookish, including inspiration for her novels, love of all things seasonal, and the fact that All Wrapped Up is her first venture into autumn in her books. All Wrapped Up would make a really great Hallmark movie and has a cosy Gilmore Girls, community village/town feel. Episode Links Heidi's Instagram Buy the bookAn Interview with the Author Intro music by Darren Curtis

This week I’m diving into the brand new romantasy Warrior Princess Assassin by Brigid Kemmerer, a sweeping fantasy full of danger, betrayal, and uneasy alliances. The story starts off as the tale of two people marrying for political gain, to merge their two kingdoms, both of which are in danger. Slowly, the story develops: a perilous journey, assassination attempts, political intrigue, palace secrets. Trust becomes as valuable as survival. It’s an adventure laced with romance, loyalty, and the constant threat of blades in the dark. In this episode, I’ll be sharing my thoughts on how the story unfolds, from the complex palace relationships, the anger and frustration, the jealousy and the tension of life on the road as talks of peace break down and accusations are made. As always, I remain spoiler-free and always honest. I'll be talking about the characters, the fantasy, the romance and the tropes, and all without straying from the family-friendly path or revealing any huge spoilers. And if that weren’t enough, I’ll also be giving a shorter review of Finding Mr. Write by Kelley Armstrong, a romantic comedy full of witty banter, false identities, and the delightful chaos of love turning up where you least expect it. So, if you’re after a mix of fantasy adventure and light-hearted romance, make yourself a cuppa, get comfortable, and let’s talk books. Featured Episodes Shield of Sparrows Fourth Wing Iron Flame The Games Gods Play Intro music by Darren Curtis

This week I’m travelling to Lancashire to join a witch and her found family in the cosy fantasy A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna. This one is equal parts heart and magic, as we follow Sera Swan while she discovers what is most important to her after being exiled from the Sorcerer's Guild following a huge rule infraction! Since then, she's built a new life running an inn that only appears to those who truly need it. With a backdrop of enchanted rooms where petals fall from the ceiling, a house full of eccentric misfits, and the ever-present shadow of the Guild, this story offers gentle humour, found family warmth, and the quiet ache of desperation to get back what was lost years before. At the heart of it all is Sera, a heroine who has to decide not just whether she wants her magic back, but whether she’s ready to open herself up to let people into her life. As with every episode, while I’ll be touching on the views of others to keep things balanced, ultimately, the opinions here are my own. I’ll be talking through the world-building, the cast of characters who make the inn feel alive, and whether the romantic thread kept me invested, or if it had me rolling my eyes. Everything remains completely spoiler-free and 100% honest, because what’s the point otherwise? And don’t forget to stay tuned for a second, shorter review. I’ll also be sharing my thoughts on The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst. Think bookshops, quiet rebellion, and a story about finding a place to belong. So, pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books.

Somehow it happened, we've passed the halfway mark for 2025 (where did the time go)! That means it's time to take a look at my reading journey so far (yes, I know it's a bit late). So, in this episode, I’m reflecting on the books that have shaped the last six months, the highs, the lows and everything in between. Well, not quite everything, that would take a little bit too long! I’ll be talking honestly about what worked for me, what didn’t quite hit the mark, and why. Of course, there was that one stand-out read that should already be placed on a podium somewhere, and I am going to be working up to that one, because it's special...and if you haven't read it already, maybe you should...I can’t wait to tell you why it’s stayed with me long after the final page. Plus, if you’re already planning your next few reads, I’ll also be sharing the titles I’m most looking forward to for the rest of the year. Whether you’re here for inspiration, reflection, or just to compare notes, if you find joy in a good book and love to talk about them, you're in the right place. Sit back, relax and enjoy my six-month check-in, a month late! Mentioned Episodes Brat: An '80s Story by Andrew McCarthy Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor

This week I’m taking a deep look at the brand new romantasy Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry. This is a rich, emotionally layered fantasy looking at a blend of light-hearted and deep topics, including duty and survival as well as the quiet rebellion of a heroine who’s been overlooked all her life. With a backdrop of dangerous creatures, political tension, and a marriage forged through ancient magic, this one offers slow-burn dynamics, fierce training scenes, and a world where power is rarely what it seems. As with every single episode, while I take a look at the views of others (to keep things just a little bit more balanced), ultimately, the views are mine. I'm going to be talking through the world-building, the pacing, character dynamics, and whether the romantic tension kept me turning pages, or just turning up my eyebrows. As always, everything remains completely spoiler-free and is 100% honest, because what's the point if it's not? If you’re into brooding protectors, blood-bound rituals, and heroines who earn their power step by step, this might be one for your TBR.And don't forget to stay tuned for the second, shorter review. I’ll be sharing my thoughts on For Whom the Belle Tolls by Jaysea Lynn. Let’s just say... I had feelings. So, pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books.

Now, for those of you who don't know, I'm an 80s kid. By that, I mean I turned 16 at the end of that decade. I grew up with posters of Ralph Macchio and Michael J Fox on my wall, I went to see New Kids on the Block in concert, and when I read about The Brat Pack in newspapers and magazines (social media was not a thing), I wanted to be a member of that group. From media released long after that time, it appears that while fans wanted to be part of the gang, the gang itself was not overly happy with the label they were given by David Blum in his 1985 New Yorker article. In 2021, Andrew McCarthy released his autobiography, which talked a little about his experiences as an '80s heartthrob, and in 2024, he produced a documentary exploring the impact this label had on him and his fellow Brat Packers! This week, I met up with my friend Lorraine, and as we're both very proud '80s kids, we talked about the autobiography, the documentary and our perceptions of what it meant to us. Yep, this week is different. Welcome again to Lorraine, and join us both on a trip back in time, when things were easier, when the Goonies were doing the truffle shuffle, Jake Ryan was waiting outside our house, standing in front of a Porsche and wearing a gross pink satin prom dress got you the boy of your dreams!

This week, I’m diving into The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen, a mythology-inspired fantasy romance filled with deadly challenges, divine politics, and a reluctant heroine caught in the middle of it all. With a premise rooted in ancient rivalries and a high-stakes tournament hosted by the gods themselves, it’s a story that promises danger, drama, and a healthy dose of romantic tension. As always, these are just my personal thoughts. I’ll be talking about the world-building, the main characters, and also going into a little bit of the mythological archetypes included in the story. As ever, everything is completely spoiler-free. If you enjoy mythological twists and enemies-to-lovers dynamics, this might be one to add to your TBR. And stay tuned to the end of the episode for a quick review of The Names by Florence Knapp, a beautifully written, thought-provoking read that I just couldn’t leave unmentioned. So pop the kettle on, get comfy, and let’s talk books.

This week, I’m diving into Silver Elite, a dystopian romance that’s been making waves in the book community. A debut novel by author Dani Francis, it is set in a high-stakes world, with slow-burning tension, and a heroine hiding more than just her powers. Silver Elite is a release that has caught the attention of a lot of readers across socials, and I was so curious that I just had to pick it up..As usual, all opinions are completely mine, and I’ll be sharing my honest thoughts on everything from the pacing and character development to the emotional pull of the romance. I’ll also touch on some of the conversation happening around the book, praise and criticism, everything is fair game. As ever, it's 100% spoiler-free, so whether you've read the book or are thinking about it, I'm not going to be revealing massive plot points, character motivations or the ending!Grab a cuppa, settle in, and let’s have a chat about whether Silver Elite lives up to the hype, or if it left me wanting something more.

When you reach a certain age, you can feel as though you're forgotten, whether that's because you've suddenly reached the age of grandmothers in books who sit and knit while adoring their grandchildren, or because you are no longer seen as anything but the extension of the family unit. Aged to Perfection, the debut novel by author Niloufar Lamakan, is one of a recent batch of romantic comedy novels that turns this preconception on its head. With a leading lady in her early 60s who wants to go out and enjoy life - and by that I don't mean sitting on her deck with a sherry as people bring her a birthday cake that could set a house on fire...Sophia has a goal: 52 dates in 52 weeks. She's in her new romantic era. Join me today as I talk with Niloufar about Aged to Perfection, the preconceived belief that women in their 60s are old and past it, and why she wrote this novel. Niloufar online Instagram Facebook Buy the book Amazon Waterstones Indie Bookstores

This week, I’m joined by bestselling author Mandy Robotham to talk about her latest novel, Mrs Spy, a gripping and atmospheric story of secrets, betrayal, and the high personal cost of espionage. The book is released on Thursday, the 15th of May and published by Head of Zeus.Set against the tense backdrop of 1960s Britain at the height of the Cold War,we follow widowed single mother, Maggie Flynn, who, following the unfortunate and sudden passing of her husband, works for MI5. Maggie’s world is one of order and duty, balancing the demands of intelligence work with raising her Beatles-fanatic daughter and spending time with her colourful and exuberant mother. Things begin to unravel when she meets Yuri. He knew her husband, and knows things about his career that he had kept a secret from her. As Maggie delves deeper, she finds herself questioning everything: her colleagues, her past, and even her memories of her husband. In a world where deception is currency and silence can be deadly, Maggie must rely on her instincts and inner strength to uncover the truth. But with powerful forces determined to keep her quiet, will she be silenced before she can expose what really happened?Mrs Spy is an evocative and emotionally charged novel that captures the danger of the Cold War era and the quiet bravery of women who refuse to be overlooked—or silenced.Find Mandy Robotham onlineInstagramFacebookBuy Mrs SpyAmazon UKWaterstonesBookshop.org UK

Where You Go, I Will Go by Christina Fonthes is a gripping and poetic exploration of identity, migration, and finding where you feel you belong. Told across two timelines, blending events in the Congo and the UK, this powerful novel captures the ache of displacement and the quiet resilience of queer Black womanhood. This week I talk with Christina about her book, the books and experiences that inspired its creation and touch on the sensitive subjects contained within the pages.There's also talk of favourite books, unredeemable characters and what makes a character human in the eyes of the author and the reader.It's a deep one this week, people, so buckle up and enjoy the ride. I loved this opportunity to talk with Christina about this novel, and I think it's a wonderful read. Christina's Links Instagram Website Buy the book Bookshop.org Waterstones Foyles Amazon UK

This week, I’m heading back to San Francisco’s Chinatown for another delightfully chaotic mystery with our favourite sixty-something sleuth, Vera Wong. In Jesse Sutanto’s latest novel, Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man, the tea shop is still bustling, but what Vera's craving is just a little more excitement in her now much fuller life. When she encounters a young girl outside the police precinct, Vera senses a mystery in need of an answer, and she's back on the case! A locked briefcase, a viral social media moment, and a trail of secrets are far too much for the calming effects of a cup of her chrysanthemum tea.In this episode, I share my spoiler-free thoughts on this cosy, yet surprisingly dark sequel. I talk about why Vera continues to be such a compelling character and how this book explores found family and identity in the digital age.Whether you loved the first Vera Wong book or you're just dipping your toes into the world of cosy crime and cosy mysteries, this one has humour, heart, high-stakes sleuthing, and a grandmother who’s got more guts than your average gumshoe. So, pop the kettle on, settle in, and let’s chat all things books. Featured Links Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers Cosy Mysteries Playlist And don't forget, I'm back on Livestream for the Cure this year, on the 17th May. Tune in, take part, and please donate to this incredibly important cause. It's all in the name of Cancer Research.

This week I am taking a look at a book so different than most that I tend to review I honestly am not sure how to define it. Part science fiction, part literary fiction, the story is certainly genre-bending. Death of the Author, by Nnedi Okorafor is the story of Nigerian American writer Zelu, whose first novel is a breakout success that catapults her, unprepared, into the spotlight. As she navigates fame, family tension, and the boundaries between identity and creativity, the novel explores what it means to tell your own story, and how to maintain ownership of it and your own identity. As things change in her life, love, family, success, she has to learn to handle the criticism that comes with being suddenly successful and under the microscope that fame brings with it. A sharp, layered narrative blending realism with speculative elements, Death of the Author raises powerful questions around authorship, autonomy, and the cost of visibility. As ever, I won't spoil the ending! Featured episodes The Aurora Cycle Skyward The Illuminae Files

Have you ever found yourself staring at your bookshelf, wanting to read but just… not feeling it? I’ve been there too, in fact, I am there right now...hence no specific book to talk about (sadly). This week I'm opening up and going into my own personal experience of the dreaded reading slump. I am not sure what triggers them, but there are multiple options on the very long list! I am also going to look into what I see as the many benefits of reading, why it's important to me and a few recommendations for finally switching the slump into something positive (a drive to read again). Of course, I know that not every method will work for every person, but they're always worth a try... Whether you’re feeling unmotivated, distracted, or just can’t seem to find the right book, this episode is all about helping you turn the page and fall back in love with reading. Tune in and let’s break out of this slump together!

In today’s episode, I’m talking about the darkly comedic That’ll Teach Her by Maz Evans, a murder mystery set in a primary school. The story kicks off with the sudden death of the headmistress, Claudia Stitchwell, with the official reason given being an allergic reaction to nuts in a chocolate cake... But some of the parents aren’t buying it, so they turn to their school WhatsApp group to start putting the pieces together and figure out what really happened, uncovering a lot of secrets that would have been better staying buried along the way.The book is told in a really fun way, using WhatsApp chats, chat boards, school newsletters, and police reports, all of which give it a unique twist. Want to know if this book is for you? Give this week's episode a listen to hear my full take on it, without any spoilers, and find out if this darkly comic whodunit should be your next read!Featured Episodes Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers My Socials X/Twitter - @being_bookish Instagram - @beingbookishpod TikTok - @beingbookishreviews YouTube - @beingbookishpod

The Stolen Child is a brand new release from author Carmel Harrington. An emotional thriller, it looks at every parent's worst nightmare. We talk about the inspiration behind the writing of the book, the shocking views some people seem to have of step-parents, and also the relationships in the book that make it oh-so relatable and realistic for some people. It's every parent's worst nightmare. But there's no waking up from this... On board a cruise ship in the Mediterranean, Kimberley wakes to discover that her two-year-old son Robert has vanished from the cabin overnight. She and her husband Jason vow to do whatever it takes to bring Robert home. But he is never found. Forty years later, their therapist daughter Lily welcomes a new client into her home. Zach has a shocking theory about what happened to her brother years before. If Zach is to be believed, someone out there knows what happened on that ship. And they would do anything to stop the truth getting out. But secrets always find a way to reveal themselves. Carmel's links Instagram Facebook Buy The Stolen Child Waterstones | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Bookshop.org | B&N

Quicksilver by Callie Hart was the quiet BookTok hit of 2024. Initially released by the author via independent publisher, it was won, in a 10-way bid by Hodder & Stoughton for their Fantasy imprint, Hodderscape, and was released on the 3rd December 2024. As with all fantasy novels, there are as many detractors as there are those praising it. So what did I think of this latest addition to the romantasy and fantasy world? Did it light my mental fire, or did it extinguish as quickly as a match on a windy day? The story of Kingfisher and Saeris (pronounced Sare-iss) is a bit of a mixed bag, but at over 600 pages, it was a journey to get from the beginning to the end.

Six Poppies is released on the 30th of January and is the heartbreaking tale of Sarah and Carl who meet at Camp Bastian in Afghanistan. She's a nurse, he's a soldier and what they experience while there haunts everyone involved. Upon returning to England they try to get on with their lives. Sarah's fiancee Danny served with Carl and he's been irrevocably changed by what he saw. When circumstance throws Carl and Sarah back together, it's obvious that what they went through has left them broken, but the question is how will they continue? Will they allow the situation to ruin their lives forever? The book asks a lot of important questions about the support available for those who have served and witnessed incredible and terrifying things while doing so - is it enough? Should there be more? Find out what Lisa has to say about the inspiration behind the novel and what she hopes will happen to help those in need. Head-up: The Mental Health Charity for the Armed Forces Community Combat Stress Help for Heroes: Hidden Wounds Buy the Book: Waterstones | Amazon UK | Amazon US | Indie Bookshops