Being Bookish

In this, the final episode of 2024 I am taking a look at all the episodes from this year and picking out not only the favourite books I reviewed but also the episodes I truly enjoyed above all others. It's tough picking a favourite when you've created them all, but sometimes a single piece of work shines brighter than the others, and that's what I tried to look for. Did you enjoy any of my episodes more than others you listened to? Do you have a favourite book of 2024? Did any of my recommendations really speak to you? Let me know, I'd love to find out what you want to hear more about in 2025. Content mentioned Best of 2024 Best and Worst Reads of 2024 (YouTube)

In this penultimate episode of Season 5 and 2024, I thought I would go all out and talk about a book that surprised me. As part of my 24 reads for 2024 I kept on skipping over it as it appeared to be rather intimidating. However, once I sank into the world Lawrence created I was presented with a lot of thoughts. So, did this 2023 novel live up to the hype I was bombarded with last year? Was it worth the admiration? Was the stunning exterior (provided by a special edition courtesy of Locked Library) appropriate for the story within? In a tale about books, a timeless library that seems to constantly grow and learn, it's important to know limits. This book is about power, but it's also about life, growth and learning. But whether they worked well together in the story is for you to find out by listening to this latest episode!

This week we head back to the fantasy realm for the first in Jennifer L Armentrout's Blood and Ash series, From Blood and Ash. The story of Poppy Balfour and Hawke Flynn - no, it's not a grown-up spin-off of Tangled (though you could be forgiven for thinking so with those names). Poppy, is bound to her close-knit but secretive community by her role as the Maiden, a sacred figure who is forbidden from experiencing anything that others around her can; including freedom. However, she has been training for years, guided by her personal guard, who has been preparing her to defend herself, though she has no idea why and what from. When the mysterious Hawke enters her life she discovers that everything she has known is not the truth she believed it to be. Humorous reviews Sophia's review Marta the Bookslayer's review Ale's review My socials Instagram Blue Sky YouTube

You've seen the TV show, now listen to me talk about the book that is about a character mentioned for no more than 10 seconds as it burns on a sheet of paper in Declan O'Hara's fire! This week I am talking about Polo, the third book in the Rutshire Chronicles by Jilly Cooper, and probably the one which introduces my favourite characters of the entire series. I know, I know, I keep on saying how much I adore Rupert Campbell-Black (and I do) but for some reason, Perdita MacLeod takes the prize and I feel that after she appears in this book she isn't used enough (or at all). So, find out what I thought about this 1991 novel, does it bring all the glamour, heartache, anguish and devastatingly handsome men to the yard? Or is it just a damp squib that should be lost to the vestiges of time? I think you already know some of what I think. But give it a listen anyway. Previous episodes Rivals (Book) Rivals Trailer (TV)

This week I was lucky enough to have some time with author Alex Pavesi to talk about his second novel, Ink Ribbon Red, which is released by Penguin Michael Joseph on the 7th of November. Six friends gather at a country house for a birthday weekend. They decide to play a game.All six names go in a hat. Choose two, and imagine one murdering the other.Write it down. Type it up. Read it out. Points are given for making the murders sound convincing. Of course, when given such a task, it’s only natural to use what you know. Secrets. Grudges. Affairs. But once you’ve put it in a story, that secret is out. So with each fictional murder, someone gets a motive for a real one. Which leads to the most important question: When a real murder comes, will you be able to spot it in time? If you love a mystery with a dark edge then this is definitely one you should be adding to your TBR for the chilly winter nights. We talk books, writing methods and how the plot line is not as linear as you may expect. Alex's web presence Alex's Website Alex's X (Twitter) account Buy Ink Ribbon Red Waterstones | Amazon | Indie Bookstores

No, your eyes do not deceive you. This episode has been missing for a while, languishing in the archives after someone or other at Spotify decided that my content belonged to someone else...so today I am going to be gifting you with my January 2023 episode all about one of the greatest detectives ever created, Hercule Poirot, in Agatha Christie's 1941 novel, Evil Under the Sun. The 1981 film version of this book is a regular rewatch for me, so revisiting the episode seemed natural, especially as we quickly move into the chilly and dark winter evenings. So, enjoy Hercule on his holidays, on a remote Cornish island, as he solves an unusual but clearly well-planned and glamorous murder! And find out what I thought of this intriguing mystery.

In this episode, I explore The Other Bennet Sister by Janice Hadlow. It starts as a reimagining of Pride and Prejudice through the eyes of the overlooked middle sister, Mary. The story continues after the death of Mr Bennet, with Mary discovering that being the only unmarried sister leaves you in a vulnerable position. Throughout the book, Mary emerges from the shadows of her more outgoing sisters to find her own path in a world that values beauty and charm. I’ll discuss her journey toward self-discovery, love, and independence, offering insight into how Hadlow deepens Mary’s character and reshapes her narrative. To find out what I thought of this rather chunky historical sequel, give this more lengthy episode a listen. Episode links My Vinted Raye Loves Reading (YouTube) Being Bookish (the Website) My Storygraph (join me!)

The Queen of Poisons is the third book in Robert Thorogood's Marlow Murder Club series, but does it hit the same spot as the previous two instalments?This week I take a look at the latest addition (released in January 2024) and figure out whether I actually liked it, or not. As with every episode, while I will talk about the suspects and the murder, I never reveal whodunnit, because to do that would ruin the enjoyment for you if you pick the book up for yourself (which is what I always try and encourage). Featured episodes Cosy Mysteries YouTube - Agatha Raisin and the Quiche of Death Analysis

This week I am talking with author Julie Owen Moylan about her latest historical novel, Circus of Mirrors which is due for release on Thursday 12 September in the UK. A story full of complex characters, growth, love and heartbreak set across four decades in post-war Berlin. Berlin, 1926. After the death of their parents, sisters Leni and Annette only have each other. Dreaming of better days, but desperate, Leni finds work at the notorious Babylon Circus. From the dancer’s barely-there costumes, to the glimmering mirrors that cover the walls, the Babylon Circus is a place where reality and fantasy merge. For Leni, it’s an overwhelming new world, and she’s happiest hiding in the shadows. Until she meets the cabaret’s resident pianist, Paul… Twenty years later, the Babylon Circus is in ruins. Leni and Annette have a new mouth to feed. And Paul is nowhere to be seen. Once again, Leni and Annette must depend on each other. But one of the sisters is hiding a secret. And, sooner or later, it must come to light. We talk about the Weimar Republic, character complexity and the difficult relationship between sisters. Julie's Links Julie's Website Julie's X/Twitter Julie's Instagram Buy the Book: Amazon | Indie | Waterstones

Released in 1948, Taken at the Flood is the 26th Poirot novel by Agatha Christie, and while it maintains his rather bombastic character, it's very different to any of the novels which came before it. Set in the years immediately following the Second World War, it centres around the behaviour of a family who has grown accustomed to depending upon a single wealthy relative...asking and answering the question 'What happens when the golden goose dies and leaves you nothing?'. An interesting novel, my views about it are varied and perhaps a little bit confused, but let me know what you think of my review of Taken at the Flood by Agatha Christie. Featured episodes The Kingdom is a Golden Cage Hickory, Dickory, Dock Featured Links Once Upon a Nightmare podcast

I think that this episode is going to be a surprise, if only because every once in a while a book comes along that isn't what you expected... But if that's because it's good or not I am not going to reveal here...you'll have to listen to find out. Following in the footsteps of authors like Sarah J Maas and Kalynn Baylon comes Lilly Inkwood, to provide us with an unusual reimagining of a lesser-known fairytale, that of Puss in Boots (did you know the story, because I didn't). In The Kingdom is a Golden Cage we are told the story of Princess Celine, the cat Hugo and the Duke who is not a duke, Philippe...but is this story about love, deception, or perhaps a little bit of both? Join me to find out which side of the fence I stand on!

Do you love historical novels? Specifically, those based during the Regency period? Do you love learning things that you may not have heard about in high school history? How about the first real celebrity (I'm talking Byron here, people!)? If this sounds like something you'd be really into (and even if it doesn't, because minds can be changed!!!) join me for my interview with author Katy Moran as we talk about her new novel, My Lady's Secrets, which is based during the Napoleonic war, and follows our heroine Cressida through Spain, English society and the north of Scotland...as well as talk about events in history that may not be as well known as they probably should be! Where to find Katy Her website Instagram Twitter/X My Lady's Secrets: Amazon UK | Amazon US | Waterstones | Bookshop.org

I'm back this week with a recent paperback release in the form of Kat Ailes' debut cosy mystery, The Expectant Detectives. I don't think that this is what happens when a group of pregnant women get together after they witness a murder, but I could be very wrong (let me know). The first in a new series called The Mothers' Murder Club, does this debut set the scene for the next book? Find out what I thought of the book in this completely spoiler-free review... Featured episodes Babylonia Vera Wong's Unsolicited Advice for Murderers The Marlow Murder Club Hickory Dickory Dock

If you love ancient history as much as I do then chances are this book is already on your radar. I tried to resist reading it as soon as it arrived, but, as you can tell, I failed... But did this book fail? You can probably already guess what I thought, but give this episode a listen and if you haven't already picked it up, see if this encourages you to do so. Links Clytemnestra Raye's Reading on YouTube

There is something I can't help but love about cosy mysteries. The genre is probably the second best represented on my bookcase (after historical romances - represented purely because of my love for Johanna Lindsey). So, what is it about the genre that I enjoy so much? Why am I always on the lookout for more, and where did my love of them come from? Was it the David Suchet show when I was in my 20s, or did my love stem from something much further back in my past? This week I am going to take a look at a few of my recent (and not so recent) favourites and dig into what I enjoy so much about the genre that is Cosy Mystery.

We're almost halfway through the year so I figured it was time for a bit of a check-in. I have read a pretty decent number of books and while some have been incredible, others have not been quite so impressive. I am also taking a look at the upcoming releases that are on my 'most anticipated' list, between now and the end of September, and there are some really great books on that list (let me tell you). Clytemnestra Silver in the Bone Ruthless Vows | Divine Rivals Argylle DONATE TO LIVESTREAM FOR THE CURE

Have you ever just read a truly hyped up book and wondered what you were missing? Maybe it was Fourth Wing or Twilight, or Harry Potter? The Ministry of Time was so hyped before it was released that the BBC in the UK purchased the rights to make it into a TV series... As with every episode, I am not going to spoil the ending, but I am going to talk about my feelings as I read and finished this time-travelling debut by British-Cambodian author, Kaliane Bradley. Did I like it? Did I rate it? Find out. Don't forget, if you want to find out more about Livestream for the Cure, or donate to the event, check out the site now: https://donate.tiltify.com/d788c5ca-1b84-42f1-a41a-ab715c2ce57e/details The event starts on Wednesday 29th of May and I will be on livestream myself from 4pm EST/9pm BST on Thursday 30th May here: https://www.twitch.tv/livestreamforthecure

This week I am heading all over the country with Lorraine from Once Upon a Nightmare as we follow Hercule Poirot on one of his toughest early investigations, The ABC Murders. Not only does he have to contend with a serial killer who seemingly has no discernable MO, but he is up against the clock as this murderer is putting a timer on it all. Will he solve the case? Will he beat the killer at his own game? We will reveal some, but not all of this, this week in the usual Being Bookish spoiler-free fashion.

As you may know, there are few genres I enjoy more than cosy mysteries, so when this one kept on popping up on my Insta feed I knew that I had to give it a whirl. Based in 1795, this novel follows one of my author idols, Jane Austen as she navigates social niceties, attends balls, spends time with her friends and...solves the murder of a milliner from whom she once purchased a hat in Basingstoke. As always, I won't be spoiling the ending, revealing the murder or unveiling their motive...but I will be letting you know whether I enjoyed it or not!

Not all monsters are what they seem...This week I am taking a look at probably one of the most famous 'monsters' in Greek Mythology, Medusa, with Natalie Haynes' mythological retelling of the story, Stone Blind. So, does this book live up to the hype I have heard from fans over the last couple of years? Is the book as amazing as the stunning cover would have it appear? Join me to find out what I thought, during my spoiler-free review. As ever, I will be completely honest as I take the story apart, and despite pretty much everyone knowing how the tale of Medusa ends, I am not going to reveal the unexpected twists and turns that Haynes uses in the book.