Are you one? The Art Lover’s Barcelona (by Ruby Boukabou)

 #TheArtLoversGuidetoBarcelona #NetGalley

Thinking of going to Barcelona, either really or virtually? Been there and want to think back on your trip? Interested in art in general? Readers in any (or all) of these categories will want to give this title a look.

Inside is a wonderful guide to the art scene in Barcelona. The book is well organized with sections on history, practical tips, 36 hours in Barcelona, art in varying locales (museums, galleries, street art, etc.) and conversations with those in the art scene. There are even sections on art classes and buying art. The text is accompanied by many photographs.

All in all, it is easy to recommend this guide.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Pen & Sword for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 28 February 2024

The answer is complex and simple: Why We Read (by Shannon Reed)

#WhyWeRead #NetGalley

Shannon Reed offers readers her idiosyncratic answers (and they are many) as to why we read and why she does. Early on Reed shares that, as someone with a hearing impairment, reading books was a comfortable place to be as there was no need to struggle or answer based on imperfect understanding of what was being said. Reed read everywhere and everything, even a car manual when she forgot (never again!) to have a book with her. Bibliophiles will relate to not ever leaving home without something to read; I know that I did.

This is not an academic treatise but more a series of wide ranging personal thoughts and reflections. Throughout it is clear that Reed loves reading and wants her students and everyone, really, to find joy in a book.

Reed begins by talking about getting her first library card and the many libraries that have played a role in her life. I know two of these personally which made the pages come to life for me. 

Whether it is about reading (or not reading) series, signs you may be a character in a popular children’s book, reading to see ourselves across time, for comfort, fun or shock, or more, it is intriguing to see what the author has to say on a variety of topics.

This book would make a fun gift for a reader…even if that reader means giving a gift to one’s self. Take a look at the back of the book for an exhaustive reading list based on the books mentioned in the text. This will give a bibliophile many ideas for what to try next or to fondly remember books that they have read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 08 February 2024

A shoutout for Sophie Green

Sophie Green is an author whose books I randomly discovered a few months ago. They are perfect for those who like long, immersive reads that feature every day women trying to manage their lives while relying on the support of their friends. 

Each book seems to be set in a different part of Australia in the recent past. I have read three so far and have enjoyed them so much. They are perfect for a bit of escape. 

Have you heard of Sophie Green? Did you like her books if you did? I’d love to know.

It happens: One Christmas Morning (by Rachel Greenlaw)

#OneChristmasMorning #NetGalley

Anyone who has read their Dickens knows that the holiday season can bring both celebration and contemplation. That is certainly the case in this Christmas story with elements of A Christmas Carol reminding readers that this is the case.

Readers get to know Eva who has had a bad Christmas experience. This has resulted in her pulling away from people and diverting her energy into work. Readers also meet the ghost of her beloved grandmother, her husband and friends. 

It looks as if this year things may well be different.  The unexpected will happen as Eva takes on the perspectives of some of those in her world. How will these experiences change her?

Will Eva get a happy ending? Will the spirit of Christmas lead to understanding, friendship and good things? Readers will certainly hope so..

This is an enjoyable debut novel. I look forward to the author’s nest book.

Many thanks to Avon/Harper Voyager and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the Publisher

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