Review: The Rock by Monica McCarty

Title: The Rock
Author: Monica McCarty
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Highland Guard #11
Publication Date: 29th December 2015
Pages: 416
Book Source:  Pocket Books & NetGalley

Synopsis: The first time he caught sight of Elizabeth Douglas, Thomas MacGowan thought she was a princess. To the son of the castle blacksmith, the daughter of the powerful Lord of Douglas might as well be. When it becomes clear that his childhood companion will never see him as a man she could love, Thom joins Edward Bruce’s army as a man-at-arms to try to change his lot. If he’s harbored a secret hope that he could close the gap between them, he faces the cold, hard truth when Elizabeth comes to him for help. She might need the boy who used to climb cliffs to rescue her brother from the hands of the English, but she would never see the son of a smith as a man worthy of her hand. 

Karen's Thoughts: 

I’m a huge fan of the Monica McCarty Highland Guard series, but sadly I have to say that the The Rock is probably my least favourite. Don’t get me wrong, it is still an enjoyable read with regard to the history and Thom’s place in the Guard, but the romance side to The Rock fell short for me and it had nothing to do with Monica’s writing. I just didn’t like the heroine, Elizabeth.

Every time she said to Thom "Why are you trying to confuse me and make this so difficult?" I felt like strangling her.

Thom fell in love with the Scottish Princess for the first time when he was just a child. He grew up with Elizabeth and her brother and they were very close childhood friends. Thom had always held out hope that he would prove to Elizabeth that he was worthy of her love. What a true fairytale romance -- the Scottish Princess falls in love with the Blacksmith’s son! Elizabeth had other ideas.

For that one treacherous heartbeat, he thought she’d reconsidered. He was so overcome by the rush of emotion that when she looked up at him and said “I need you,” he heard, “I want you.”

Lost in the entrancing sea of her eyes, he’d felt himself falling.  His mouth lowered, and it was only when her eyes widened in shock at what he was doing to do that he snapped back to reality.

“I need your help,” is what she’d said.

Thom was such a strong character and even through Elizabeth’s rejection he still pursued his desire to become someone he believed was not only worthy for her, but for himself. Thom certainly proved he was a more than capable Knight, but also earned his place within The Highland Guard.

If only Elizabeth could have seen what was right in front of her a little earlier, I may have even liked her just a little bit.

I have loved reading this series, it has long been a favourite and one I will re-read many times over the years I’m sure. I can’t believe the next book in the series, book 12 The Ghost is going to be the last!

Guest review by Karen

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Review: The Things We Keep by Sally Hepworth

Title: The Things We Keep
Author: Sally Hepworth
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Publication Date: 19th January 2016
Pages: 352
Book Source: St Martins Press & NetGalley

Synopsis: Anna Forster, in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease at only thirty-eight years old, knows that her family is doing what they believe to be best when they take her to Rosalind House, an assisted living facility. She also knows there's just one another resident her age, Luke. What she does not expect is the love that blossoms between her and Luke even as she resists her new life at Rosalind House. As her disease steals more and more of her memory, Anna fights to hold on to what she knows, including her relationship with Luke.

When Eve Bennett is suddenly thrust into the role of single mother she finds herself putting her culinary training to use at Rosalind house. When she meets Anna and Luke she is moved by the bond the pair has forged. But when a tragic incident leads Anna's and Luke's families to separate them, Eve finds herself questioning what she is willing to risk to help them.

My Thoughts:

My first time reading Australian author Sally Hepworth. I plan to make up for lost time after this beautiful read. 

There are few of us untouched by Alzheimers; our memories are a defining part of who we are, the essence of one's self. When names, experiences and memories are taken, Love may be the thread that sustains even though the thread may be as fine and delicate as gossamer wings. 

38 year old Anna has early-onset Alzheimer's. Sally Hepworth covers her cognitive decline with sensitivity and humour. But there's more to this story than the sadness of Alzheimer's. It's a love story, a story of hope and heart. 

In the assisted care facility Rosalind House, Anna and fellow resident Luke, a 41 year old with a variant of frontotemporal dementia fall in love.

... Nat King Cole's rich baritone notes fill the room. He and I stare at each other, expressionless. 

"This is a joke, right?" I say as the swell of tension gives way to laughter. "Unforgettable?"

"No," he says, even though he's laughing now, too. "I've listened to this record before, but I don't remember hearing this song."

You... don't - " A wave of hysteria hits. Now I'm laughing so hard, I can barely get the word out. "-remember?"

That sets him off, which sets me off again. Which sets him off again. And for the next few minutes, he and I are just two young people. Laughing. Kissing. And listening to Nat King Cole. 

The narrative alternates between Anna, widowed, single mother Eve, the new cook at Rosalind House and Clementine, Eve's seven year old daughter. 

Eve befriends Anna, her desire to help Anna and Luke may not have been the wisest move given her lack of medical knowledge but I empathised, you cannot help but form emotional connections when you work in a place like Rosalind House.

Anna's first person perspective as the disease progresses is heartbreaking to read. Sally Hepworth balances this, not with gratuitous humour but with Anna's dry wit and biting sarcasm, the quirky personalities of many of the elderly residents and Clementine's sunny nature. 

“Dr. Brain once told me that an Alzheimer’s brain was like the snow on a mountain peak—slowly melting. There are days when the sun is bright and chunks drop off all over the place and there are days when the sun stays tucked behind clouds and everything remains largely intact. Then there are days—spectacular days (his words)—when you stumble across a trail you thought had melted, and for a short while you have something back that you through was gone forever.”

I think I'd have felt better about my prognosis if he'd reworded a little. Something like, 

The brain is like a filthy, stinking pile of crap. When the sun comes out, it stinks worse than you can imagine, and when it’s cold or cloudy, you can barely smell it at all. Then there are the days that, if the wind is coming from a certain way, you might catch the cold scent of a spruce for a few hours and forget the crap is even there. 

With that analogy, at least we’d have been calling a spade a spade. Because the truth is, if you have dementia, your brain is crap. And even if you can’t smell it right this minute, it still stinks.”

I adored the elderly residents of Rosalind House, Bert who talks to his wife Myrna, who's been dead for 50 years, Clara and her husband Laurie, May and Gwen. They wormed their way into my heart, as did Clementine; she was a ray of sunshine. 

How wonderful that something as heartbreaking as early-onset Alzheimers is also warm and funny and hopeful. 

"I promise. We'll be together in the end. Batshit crazy. And together. I promise."

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Review: The Striker by Monica McCarty

Title: The Striker
Author: Monica McCarty
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: Highland Guard
Publication Date: 24th November 2015
Pages: 416
Book Source: Pocket Books & NetGalley

Synopsis: Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife—and himself for trusting her.

Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.

Karen's Thoughts:

If you’ve been reading my reviews on The Eclectic Reader for some time, you may recall I’ve reviewed quite a few of Monica’s books in the Highland Guard series and I’ve loved them all.

I enjoyed The Striker but I found myself getting distracted; might have had something to do with the length of time between book 9 and 10 ... way too long for me ;) 

Whilst reading I found myself trying to recall who was who and at the mention of a Guard’s name, trying to recall their story which pulled me from Eoin and Margaret's story. I think if you're new to the series, reading The Striker as a stand alone, you won't have the same issue. The storyline flows beautifully and you'd be none the wiser. In fact with summer holidays now here, I may go back and do a re-read.

I really do enjoy McCarty’s books, Monica manages to successfully intertwine romance, humour, suspense and history into her storyline. 

I’m generally not a fan of ‘insta-love’ in romance, I prefer to see a build up of two people really getting to know each other before declarations of love are made, but with these two characters I felt them getting swept up by each other, and with Margaret being only 18, it was certainly believable that she would fall for the charismatic Eoin.

Whilst Highlanders might be known for their bravery and tough natures, they do not make good patients when injured ...

After a few minutes of trying to make him comfortable, Lamont gave up.  “Have fun, my lady, I’ll have the lad bring you some whisky for the pain.”

“I don’t need any blasted whisky,” Eoin said.

“Its not for you, it’s for her,” Lamont responded.

And whilst they may not always be known for being romantics, they do have their moments ...

“I was a wild, backward little heathen.  I don’t know what you saw in me.”

He forced her gaze back to his. “You were strong and beautiful and funny and outrageous and sensual as sin, and I loved you from practically the first moment I saw you.”

“You did?”  He nodded.

“I’ve never stopped.  God knows it would have been easier if I had, but you are in my heart, Maggie, and that is where you will stay.”

With the recent success of the Outlander book series being adapted to screen, Highland romance books will be flying off the shelves and I would highly recommend if you want to spend some time being romanced by a Highlander …. then this is a fantastic series to start with. 

Guest review by Karen

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Come Full Circle by Sherryl Caulfield ~ Review & Giveaway

Title: Come Full Circle
Author: Sherryl Caulfield
Series: Iceberg Trilogy #3
Genre: Contemporary Fiction/Multi-Generational Fiction
Publication Date: 11th December 2015
Pages: 384
Book Source: from author

Synopsis: In 1995, in remote British Columbia, a mysterious woman begins letting go of the only person central to her life for eighteen years. On the other side of the continent, Rebecca, her ninety-six year old mother, remembers secrets hidden from her family for decades. Meanwhile, halfway around the world, in Sydney Australia, Rebecca’s granddaughter, on the eve of her thirty-third birthday, realises she is still haunted by events that happened during her teenage years. Eluded by happiness following a string of disastrous relationships, Lindsay dives into a quest to understand herself and discover the missing pieces of her life.

This moving tale of joy and sorrow completes the journey – nearly a century later – of much loved characters first introduced in Seldom Come By.

My Thoughts:

In one word ... breathtaking! 

But when have I ever left things at one word. How can I ... such an epic journey deserves more.  

So much I want to say but so much I can't. Come Full Circle should be your own experience to best appreciate it in all its beauty, that anticipation of not knowing what's in store but knowing it will be good. Just know there will come a point when you won't be able to turn the pages fast enough. And then you won't want it to end.

Layers are peeled back, pieces of the puzzle slowly come together, it may not be the picture you thought it would be or the picture you want but then again it could be even better. (cryptic enough for you lol)

Come Full Circle is a complete sensory treat ...  exquisite descriptions, Sherryl's love for the natural world pulls you in, wraps arms around you, surrounding, immersing. I loved that almost as much as revisiting the characters I've come to know and love. 

I loved the falconry aspect, and the haunting beauty of Lindsay and Ryan's night encounter with the whale raised the hair on my arms and made me teary, then whale penises and lice were mentioned and I dissolved in a fit of giggles. (and yes I googled)

Resilience, love and healing ... I think Rebecca's words sum up Come What May better than I can.


'And what else have I learned of life from the sage old age of one hundred. That it's still mysterious, mostly it is joyful and abundant, sadness fades, attitude is everything, as is forgiveness." 

Tears, smiles, sighs ... thank you for the most glorious ride Sherryl Caulfield. My heart is happy :)

See my reviews for the first two books
Seldom Come By
Come What May

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Happy Release Day for Come Full Circle. 

GIVEAWAY:
I'm very excited to offer readers of my blog the chance to win an eBook copy of Come Full Circle.  

Just leave a comment to enter and ensure you're easily contactable. International Giveaway ends 19th December. 
Winner will be drawn via random.org and announced on my blog. 

EXTRA ENTRIES: 

+2 like Sherryl's Facebook Page and let me know

+2 tweet giveaway and leave a link

AND

To celebrate the launch of Come Full Circle, Sherryl is giving away a Come Full Circle Iceberg Pack. Click on the image or visit Sherryl on Facebook to enter

This includes:

1 autographed paperback.

1 ebook (so you can read on the go or share with a friend).

A $30 iTunes voucher so you can download some of the wonderful Canadian songs that were part of my writing experience.

Plus a bottle of Vodka made from the Greenland icebergs that flow down the coast of Newfoundland. Total value approximately $150.

"Imagine sitting on Rebecca’s verandah in Newfoundland, scanning the horizon for icebergs, reading Come Full Circle, listening to Jane Siberry and sipping vodka. Hopefully this prize pack comes close."

Nonna's Library: This Little Roo Went to Market, Our Dog Knows Words & That's (Not) Mine

Title: This Little Roo Went to Market

Illustrator: Mandy Foot
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publication Date: 29th September 2015
Pages: 24
Book Source: Hachette Australia

Synopsis: An Aussie reimagining of 'This Little Piggy Went to Market' from bestselling illustrator Mandy Foot.

My Thoughts: 

Absolutely adorable read, cutest illustrations. Bright, colourful and fun! Mia loves having This Little Piggy Went to Market played on her feet so she was happy to go along with this reimagined story complete with Aussie animals.

'This little roo went to market.
This little platypus stayed at home.
This little croc had tasty treats.
This little quokka had none.'

And there's a surprise in store for little Roo when he gets home ...

I love Mandy Foot's artwork, check out her inspiration in the clip below. My granddaughter loves animals so I'll be picking up more of Mandy's delightful books. 

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Title: Our Dog Knows Words

Author: Peter Gouldthorpe
Illustrator: Lucy Gouldthorpe
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publication Date: 27th October 2015
Pages: 24
Book Source: Hachette Australia

Synopsis: Meet our very clever dog. He always knows just what we're saying to him. He knows, but does he always obey?

A funny story about a clever (but not always obedient) dog, from a father-daughter team of dog lovers.

From playing in the park to dinnertime, bath time and bedtime - this very smart dog knows what's going on!

My Thoughts:

Mia loves dogs and she knows they don't always do as they're told so she adored the clever, cheeky dog in Our Dog Knows Words. Not only does this dog know words, he understands when they're spelt. 

I didn't find this quite as appealing to read as some of the other books but there's a lot to look at and the dog's funny antics held Mia's attention.

The illustrations are cartoony and fun. A cute story, one dog lovers will relate to.

Title: That's (Not) Mine
Author: Anna Kang
Illustrator: Christopher Weyant
Genre: Children's Picture Book
Publication Date: September 2015
Pages: 32
Book Source: Hachette Australia

Synopsis: The two fuzzy creatures from You Are (Not) Small argue over a chair, each shouting 'It's mine!' But they soon realise it's better to play than to fight with your friend.

The simple text of Anna Kang and bold illustrations of The New Yorker cartoonist Christopher Weyant tell an original and very funny story about sharing.

My Thoughts: 

A funny story about two very cute, fuzzy creatures sharing (or not) and with just a few big bold words (no more are actually needed) and bright, funny illustrations this story is a treat for shared reading. 

The illustrations are so expressive they'll have you and your little reader giggling and nodding because what little person isn't obsessed with the word mine and hasn't wanted to keep a toy (or chair) all to them self. 

Nice message and a fun lesson for little ones on sharing and taking turns. 

Mia liked it and declared the book "mine" ... oops, don't think she quite got the message lol 

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Review: The Coincidence of Coconut Cake by Amy E. Reichert

Title: The Coincidence of Coconut Cake
Author: Amy E. Reichert
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Women's Fiction
Publication Date: 21st July 2015
Pages: 318
Book Source: Own purchase

Synopsis: YOU'VE GOT MAIL meets HOW TO EAT A CUPCAKE in this delightful novel about a talented chef and the food critic who brings down her restaurant—whose chance meeting turns into a delectable romance of mistaken identities.

In downtown Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Lou works tirelessly to build her beloved yet struggling French restaurant, Luella’s, into a success. She cheerfully balances her demanding business and even more demanding fiancé…until the morning she discovers him in the buff—with an intern.

Witty yet gruff British transplant Al is keeping himself employed and entertained by writing scathing reviews of local restaurants in the Milwaukee newspaper under a pseudonym. When an anonymous tip sends him to Luella’s, little does he know he’s arrived on the worst day of the chef’s life. The review practically writes itself: underdone fish, scorched sauce, distracted service—he unleashes his worst.

The day that Al’s mean-spirited review of Luella’s runs, the two cross paths in a pub: Lou drowning her sorrows, and Al celebrating his latest publication. As they chat, Al playfully challenges Lou to show him the best of Milwaukee and she’s game—but only if they never discuss work, which Al readily agrees to. As they explore the city’s local delicacies and their mutual attraction, Lou’s restaurant faces closure, while Al’s column gains popularity. It’s only a matter of time before the two fall in love…but when the truth comes out, can Lou overlook the past to chase her future?

My Thoughts: 

This book will make you hungry ... seriously hungry. Just look at that cover. Add Lou, chef and owner of French restaurant Luella's, Al aka A.W. Wodyski an infamous restaurant critic and a gastronomical tour of Milwaukee and you'll be drooling. Take my word for it, if you don't have treats lined up you'll be desperate enough to raid the cupboard for cooking chocolate. 

A scathing review leaves Lou's reputation in tatters and the future of her restaurant in doubt but she makes it her mission to show jaded new friend Al, the best of Milwaukee. And us lucky readers get a front row seat to Lou and Al falling in love over cheese curds and coconut cake.

The Coincidence of Coconut Cake has one of the best casts of secondary characters I've come across in a long time ... Al's odd coworker John, Lou's pastry chef Harley, and regulars at Luella's, Gertrude and Otto *sigh* ... they stole my heart. 

The story may have flaws but I don't much care ... I'm high on the scent of vanilla. This debut is a foodie's dream story; warm, funny, sweet, delicious, sad and I adored every mouth-watering, lip-smacking minute of it. 

It's about love and forgiveness, squeaky cheese curds and second chances, doing what you love and never giving up on your dreams. And foodgasms ... let's not forget the foodgasms. 

I can't wait for Luck, Love & Lemon Pie, coming Summer 2016.

PS If you want the recipe for Grandma Luella's Coconut Cake, the one on the cover, head over to Kimberly at Caffeinated Book Reviewer. Kimberly made the cake and posted photos and it looks positively decadent.

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Weekend Cooking is hosted by Beth Fish Reads and open to anyone who has any kind of food-related post to share: Book (novel, nonfiction) reviews, cookbook reviews, movie reviews, recipes, random thoughts, gadgets, quotations, photographs.