Edinburgh Fringe Festival 2013: Day four

My last day in Edinburgh and I was keen to fit in as much as I could before my 6.30 train. Having dropped my bags I headed back up the Royal Mile this time it was really humming with loads of acts out fliering and a great atmosphere. The street acts were actually pretty engaging and I stopped to watch a few, especially a young boy (Luke Hunter) busking. Then my Edinburgh food must Mum's (Monster Mash) for lunch, yum.

Lead Pencil, Underbelly Bristo Square
Described as a cross between Art Attack and Saved by the Bell this show was a trip to the '90s. It would possibly only make sense to people who were teenagers in the 1990s, with three high energy performers and lots of felt tip pen props. The sound track took me back to our Year 9 disco and then Skool disco at uni and the dancing was nuts. We particularly loved the Nokia 3310 song and if you're in the 25-35 age bracket fit this into your schedule for a silly start to your afternoon.

Wardens, Assembly Roxy
This was on my list as the only chance to see Thom Tuck at the Fringe. It was a hostage situation with three traffic wardens, a police community support officer and a random (Thom Tuck) who just followed the crowd. It was an amusing hour with seemingly mundane conversations with a comedy twist. As one of the few things on my list that I actually managed to see this was a fine final show for my Fringe.

I finished off my Fringe with a drink at the Udderbelly Pasture, the best way to finish a Festival.
So to sum up my Fringe 2013, I have ranked the shows I saw in order of preference:
1. Festival of the Spoken Nerd
2. Men
3. Guilt and Shame
4. Wardens
5. Oxford Imps
6. Bluebeard
7. Spank! (It would be 10 for the show I saw, but ranking it here as I think that on a normal night it would still be a pretty good night)
8. Midsummer's Night Savoy (but it has finished)
9. Gordon Southern
10. Big Value Comedy Late
11. Does My Face look Big in This (I wouldn't recommend this at all)

Things I didn't manage to see but really wanted to:
1. Make the News
2. Austentatious
3. Boy with Tape on His Face
4. The Play that Went Wrong
5. Improverts 

Edinburgh Fringe 2013: Day three

Day three was my crazy show day and I hit town early, I had a plan but in the end it didn't really play out so I saw all kinds of things.

Men, Underbelly Bristo Square
I wondered through Bristo Square and was fliered for this show, it had an NSDF award and sounded interesting so I gave it a shot. I bought the last ticket ran across the square and sat down just in time. It was a play and darkly comic, two men in a flat with a twisted devisive relationship, but there were some funny moments and I found myself laughing throughout. Some great performances and writing, do check this out, it's a good way to start your day.

Does My Face Look Big in This, Underbelly Bristo Square
Next up was supposed to be Austentatious but as it is non-ticketed and very popular you have to start queuing at about 12.30 for a 13.30 show. So we took a flier and as it was two for one decided to try this. It wasn't to our taste and had no real thread and just wasn't that amusing. I thought it may have been alright as a half hour or twenty minute slot in a compilation show but there was not enough to carry a whole hour.

Oxford Imps, Guilded Balloon
I usually try and see the Edinburgh Improverts when I'm up for the Fringe but circumstances dictated otherwise so I headed in to the Oxford Imps instead. Despite a less than engaged audience they did a great show and I even managed to get a little bit of improvised Austen for my ticket price. I really enjoy the improvised games and I particularly liked the improvised musical set in an igloo kitchen. Good fun and an uplifting start to the afternoon, go prepared with weird and wacky ideas and a good pair of lungs.

Festival of the Spoken Nerd, Assembly George Square
This was my Fringe highlight. I don't think a George Square lecture theatre has ever seen this many graphs or spreadsheets. I saw a street lamp made put of a pickled gherkin, I'm not kidding it just needed some mains electricity. Find out what would happen if you set a turning ice skater on fire, see a spreadsheet become a photo and so much more. Plenty of laughs and lots of education, I can't recommend this show enough whether you have just watched all the episodes of The Big Bang Theory or play with spreadsheets in your spare time. I can't write more without giving the show away so just a buy a ticket and go see.

Bluebeard, Space Surgeons' Hall
This was another theatre piece and a bit more contemplative, a sister and brother watch their mother fading away in a care home, slowly losing her mind. Initially, a touch confusing but I got with the programme quickly as you see flash backs into Claire's (the mother) mind. It was interesting to see both sides as the flasbacks slipped seamlessly into current day. The actress playing Claire deserved an accolade for her flawless acting as an old woman with involuntary shaking and quick switches between a sharp young wonan and her older confused self. Worth a watch if you're in the mood for something more downbeat.

Spank, Underbelly Cowgate
I was looking forward to Spank and as this year is the last year that James and Leon are hosting I was sure to place this on my list. So I was pretty disappointed to see that they were in fact not hosting and it was Late Night Gimp Fight hosting instead. However, I was determined to enjoy it so we settled in for a night of fun. It really wasn't the same without James and Leon, although the boys did do a great job. I think what was missing was the more relaxed banter with the audience that you usually get. Late Night Gimp Fight were good fun and on the basis of what I saw I'd go see their show, but for Spank they need to loosen up a bit and add chit chat in amongst their fixed sketches and some banter between acts. In the first half we had a mixture of acts starting with a weird duo who I. Think were called Twisted and Something but I can't find them anywhere. It was a mime piece to start and I really wasn't sure about it and laughter was more nervous confusion in the room around me. Their second piece was amusing to start with, A Made in Chelsea parody but it was overworked and should have stopped when the sound track came on. Next up was a man with a guitar from Sussex, there's a lot of parody rap floating around this year's Fringe and not much of it good. He then moved into a convoluted rant about Sussex being 'bad' and a not so funny song. Next up Chris Stokes, actually pretty funny and reading a steamy novel, written by his aunt, in the voice of Alan Bennett was inspired. Finally Dana Alexander, the rest of the room loved her but by this point I'd lost interest and wasn't really amused so I headed home at half time. The verdict? Spank requires a good audience (Monday is never the best day), plenty of banter, a good mix of acts and I needed more booze, but Late Night Gimp Fight could make good hosts in the future if they can drop the sketch material.

Edinburgh Festival 2013: Day two

Yesterday I had a more Fringe type of day. A leisurely morning and then I walked into town with a friend and we battled our way down the Royal Mile. Given it was a Sunday lunchtime it was fairly quiet (for the Fringe). The street performers were not inspiring and we didn't bother to stop for them before wandering on. Most of the rest of the day was spent catching up and enjoying the atmosphere, but as it's the Fringe I had to squeeze in a few shows.

Gordon Southern: a Kerfuffle, Gilded Balloon
Gordon fliered us at the Udderbelly pasture and he was engaging and stopped for a chat which always improves the chance I'll act on the flier. He had a little sound system to create silly noises as accents during the show and it was an amusing hour. He rambled a bit and the audience participation wasn't as slick as it could have been. I did enjoy his raps though and the story of his expression doing stand up for soldiers during decompression was a highlight. The verdict? I wouldn't book but it but if you're at a loose end in the area at the right time it's worth an impulse buy.

Big Value Comedy Late, Just the Tonic, Caves
The Caves were as dark and sweaty as ever but that's part of the Fringe experience. This was a series of three acts with a compère. Described as up and coming we hadn't heard of any of them but that's not a bad thing. The compère (Chris Mayo) was fun if perhaps a little new to the role but he got the room going. The first act was mildly amusing at times but not a show I'll go see. That said he has a great singing voice both baritone and impressively counter tenor and I really can't recall his name but he is the funniest thing to come out of Grimsby. The second act was a girl with a guitar and good sense of humour. I think her name was Kay and her songs were laugh out loud funny, although very stereotypically comedian girl with plenty of relationship anger. The final act of the night was Paul Myerhaug and he was hilarious. His set revolved around sex and with an eighteen year old boy and his mum in the front row it upped the anti with the perfect foil. He was the ultimate professional when the venue lights blew half way through his set, he carried on and it was just a shame he didn't get to finish. With more time on my hands I would seriously consider seeing his show Canadians of Comedy at the Gilded Balloon.

Guilt and Shame, Underbelly

As we wondered past the Underbelly it seemed a shame not to pop in and this show looked like fun. It's a bit disconcerting when you enter a venue to be handed a label and a pen and asked to write your name out. Comedy when they know your name is a little more high stakes! turns out we were at an addiction anonymous meeting with hilarious effect. God and the Devil both made an appearance but my highlight was the piece from Swan Lake, a moving work... If you're looking for a late night laugh and plenty of silliness then do go down and check these guys out, they are totally worth the ticket and so far the best thing I've seen this year.

Edinburgh Fringe 2013: Day one

This year my Fringe got off to a slow start with a one show day. I did fit in a first birthday party and a lovely dinner at The Apartment in Brunstfield with a friend visiting from New Zealand.  The Apartment has a lovely set menu at the bargain price of £10 for two courses and the food was great,I recommend it if you're in the area.

So my first show of Edinburgh Fringe 2013?

I went to see A Midsummer's Night Savoy in Gryphon venues, written and directed by my friend Chris Drew and with a number of friends in the cast it was on my must see list. The Shakespeare elements were a bit thin on the ground but there was plenty of Gilbert & Sullivan. All the songs that a dedicated Savoyard knows and loves and maybe a few that are a little less familiar. With a troupe of 'dainty' fairies including Little Buttercup trying to avoid that most terrifying of things, a group of men, the evening was fun and definitely a little silly. The male chorus and principals deserve a mention, they were all really good and there were some really strong performance during the hour. I was disappointed that the 'Sisters, Cousins and Aunts' was restricted to just a little mention and nothing more, but overall I couldn't really complain. It was the last night and the show was sold out the audience were all on board and kept the atmosphere up, it was a truely Fringe experience to start my 2013 trip.

Other more professional reviews can be read here and here.

New Royal Ballet narrative ballets

I was lucky enough to enjoy two new story ballets at the Royal Opera House, one in the Linbury and one on the main stage.

Hansel and Gretel from Liam Scarlett
Liam Scarlett's first full length ballet was hosted in the Linbury studio theatre. I was pleased to be given a reseat on arrival as I had originally had a standing spot and was offered a seat instead. This was due to the ballet being staged in the round, sitting in the temporary rows across what is usually the back of the stage I was not really convinced by the statement 'in the round' as I often felt as though I was watching from the back. However, I'm not complaining because from where I was sat I could easily see all the action, from the children's bedroom on the mezzanine level to the Witch's basement sunk into the stage under a garden shed.

Overall I enjoyed the ballet, it was dark and twisted as one might expect and the Sandman did leave me with nightmares. I saw the reviews which said there was some overacting but for me it was all part of putting on a fairy tale. I loved Ryoichi Hirano's witch, torn between his desires and hints of a dark and miserable childhood, I felt a little scared of him but mostly sorry for the lonely being under the garden shed haunted by the terrifying Sandman.

Raven Girl from Wayne McGregor
I saw Raven Girl on opening night from the middle of the amphitheatre. I wasn't expecting a classical ballet, it is a Wayne McGregor after all. However, given the dark lighting and seeming lack of dancing I was disappointed and what is a lovely story fell flat. That said, my friends, two of whom had never been to the ballet before enjoyed it and liked the black box theatre feel. I wanted to see more dancing from Ed Watson and less cycling. Thiago Soares gave a mad professor that would be hard to match, taking complete glee in turning raven girls arms into wings.

Based on my first experience mum and I decided to treat ourselves to stalls seats for my second visit to see the second cast. We were near the centre of the front row of the stalls and I can say this was indeed a good choice. Coupled with the fact that some changes had been made seeing the dancers faces made all the difference to the ballet. The lighting had been adjusted and my least favourite scene where they removed the raven girl's wings was removed. Alexander Campbell gave a great performance as the boy, you could sense his shyness about approaching the raven girl and his empassioned encounter with the Gartside's doctor was great. I was sad that that final pas de deux didn't sing out in quite the same way. However, when this ballet comes back I will be there and will definitely be treating myself to a decent seat.

Raven Girl was paired with Balanchine's Symphony in C, a beautiful contrast. This ballet had beautiful music, crisp white tutus and lots of bright lights. Beautiful performances all round and fresh from their run of La Bayadere the ladies of the corps de ballet created stunning shapes and patterns. I look forward to seeing this work again and have downloaded the score to my iPhone to keep me going.

Wrapping up 2012

So it turns out I neglected my blog and reading towards the end of the year so here's a whistle stop tour of what I read for the rest of 2012, just for completeness.

Keeper of the Light by Diane Chamberlain
Another good read from Diane Chamberlain. When Annie dies on the operating table as Olivia operates her world unravels. Olivia realises her husband was in love with Annie and life will never be the same. As she dives deeper into what happened behind her back Olivia uncovers all kinds of secrets, no murder but mystery none the less.

A Storm of Swords by George R.R. Martin
The third of the Game of Thrones books and more of the same. I'd like to finish the series and see how it ends, but I'm not sure I want to read any more war circles and characters dying just as you decide that they are the one you want on the throne. Maybe i will reach the end but I suspect that it will be like Robert Jordan's series, stretched too far for me.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern (Book Club)
I loved this book which I might not have picked up off the shelf myself. It is a magical tour through a dreamlike circus that is only open at night. Although elements of the story were entirely predictable, the style of writing and descriptions meant I finished the book wishing I could visit the night circus. I've added this book to my shelf I will read again.

Ryan's Return by Barbara Freethy
A typical chick-lit, girl meets man falls in love, doesn't realise it, nearly loses him and ends up happy with him. The verdict if you need an easy beach read and don't mind chick-lit then this is worth packing in your case.

The Spare Room by Helen Garner (Book Club)

This was an interesting choice for book club and told the story of a woman who offers her spare room to her friend who has terminal cancer. When her friend arrives and checks in to the local alternative therapy clinic the effects are devastating and a wedge is driven between the friends as they disagree about the validity of the treatment. I found this a fascinating insight into what a person could put themselves through when they have lost hope in medicine.

A Fly on the Ward by Michael K Chapman
Another hospital, blog type book, but this one is written from the point of view of a patient. The description made me think I was in for a good laugh out loud read. Although that is what the author attempted to achieve I didn't find the stories as amusing as they are from the other side and the laughs were few and far between.

It Shouldn't Happen to a Midwife by Jane Yeadon
Jane trained in Belfast in the sixties and her escapades with her fellow midwifery students was an amusing read.

Monday to Friday Man by Alice Peterson
Another chick-lit read to pack for the beach.

The Lost Daughter by Diane Chamberlain
I love Diane Chamberlain's writing and as Picoult does Chamberlain's stories are never quite what they seem.

Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn (Book Club)
We read this book at book Club before it hit the billboards here in the UK. This book was perfect for me with a huge twist in the middle. When it becomes clear that all is not as it seems you then try and untangle the clues that are left. The truth leaves you baffled and at book club there were plenty of discussions about whether we liked any of the characters. A good read especially for someone like me who enjoys a good murder mystery.

Luke and Jon by Robert Williams
Luke and Jon is a lovely book about two young boys. Luke's mother is dead and his father doesn't speak any more and escapes into the bottle. Then Luke meets Jon, a boy who doesn't fit in and has a secret. The boys bond and support each other, helping Luke's father with a huge project. Together Luke and his father uncover Jon's secret and offer him an escape, a truly heart warming read.

Tom, Dick and Debbie Harry by Jessica Adams (Book Club)
This was a dull book, set in Australia a British girl goes out to marry an Australian (Richard), has an affair with his best mate Tom while Richard's brother lives out his obsession with Debbie Harry. I didn't really care about any of the characters and nothing particularly interesting happened, I won't be reading this book again and I wouldn't recommend it, not even for a light bit of reading on holiday.

Safe House by Chris Ewan (Book Club)
The Isle of Man isn't where you would expect to find a twisted thriller to be set, but that's exactly where Chris Ewan set this book. when Rob comes off his motorbike and wakes up in hospital his first thought is to ask about his travelling companion Lena. But Rob was the only on picked up by the ambulance, there was no Lena, where did she go? Was Lena a figment of Rob's imagination and then Rebecca turns up asking questions about Laura, Rob's sister who recently died in a car accident, or maybe suicide. The story unravels and draws you in as it progresses and Rob takes on a new role as investigator, very different from his day job, plumbing. A good read, although I don't think Rob will be featuring in more murder mysteries in the future.

Gin O'Clock by The Queen of Twitter
@Queen_UK is one of my favourite twitterers and this was an impulsive purchase on the Kindle. A fun book to read over Christmas, linked to the twitter account this gives you a little more, you could fool yourself into thinking that you really are reading the Queen's diary and she does have a great sense of humour.

Snow Spider

Just heading home from Snow Spider at the Oval House in Vauxhall. Joey Hickman was fab in the role of Gwyn, a nine year old boy who was at the centre of the show with his yellow back pack. For me though the show was carried by Anne-Marie Piazza playing Nain, Gwyn's grandmother.

Based in a children's story this show asked you to suspend belief. For a start Piazza is no grandmother and Hickman not a nine year old boy. But what I really loved about this show was the feeling of a secret Edinburgh find. You know, the one you see on the first weekend, then you see the Guardian review, then it wins an award and you know you saw it before it was big. What a shame the same accolades are not available for these shows all year round.

The cast were not just talented actors but also musicians. I've never seen one violin in so many hands and the folk music element brought the story to life.

I particularly loved the simplicity of set and costume. Everything was knocked back with just a flash of colour bringing families together. I think this approach leaves the audience with a blank canvas to paint their own picture on.

So it might have been a children's play with a predictable story line but I got caught up in the magic and even cried at the end. At the time of writing you have just 2 days to buy tickets, I recommend you do., especially if you miss that edgy fringe theatre you often only watch in Edinburgh!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Summer 2012 Reading: part one

It feels like watching last night of the proms is a good time to sum up my summer reading material. Due to the Olympics the reading list is a bit shorter than usual as I got distracted but this is what I read before the Paralympics started.

A Clash of Kings by George R.R. Martin
This is the third book, or technically the end of the second book in the 'Game of Thrones' series. I wish I could tell you what happened in this book but they are all blending in to one. I'm still going to read the next one but if I'm honest I'm now ready for the end but I'm sure I'll keep reading. What I find hard about this series is that I can't really empathise with any characters, particularly because they keep killing everyone off.

Fearless in High Heels by Gemma Halliday
I enjoyed reading about Maddie's earlier adventures, a chick-lit mixed with who-dunnit, what more could a girl ask for. This time Maddie is pregnant but that doesn't seem to stop her chasing after murderers. add in a vampire element because well these days you have to have a vampire. The result is enjoyable but not the best in the series and definitely light reading.

The Good Father by Diane Chamberlain
I loved the other books I have read by Diane Chamberlain and this one was no exception. It was perhaps a little predictable but once again some interesting twists, a few nail-biting chapters and a happy ending.

Confessions of a Male Nurse by Michael Alexander
Another medical book and this one was amusing. A qualified Aussie, male nurse coming over to London writes about his experiences. Particularly amusing was the chapter in gynaecology, just every stereotype you can imagine really does happen. if you liked Confessions of a GP, which I did then you'll probably love this too.

Edinburgh Fringe 2013

This year, I introduced P to the Fringe and we took in the last weekend. It was a great vibe in the city and being the end of the Fringe the venues were running very slickly compared to last year. However, despite better weather, there was a slight lack of enthusiasm from the flyering team. We took it easy with four shows a day and so we saw:

Early Edition at Udderbelly

P and I saw the Early Edition a few years ago at the Udderbelly on the Southbank and we loved it, so this was at the top of my list to see. I love the fact that the team bring today's papers (and the Daily Mail) to the table and strating with the headlines you watch the conversation take tangents in every direction. Andre Vincent's Oli Mugabe was perhaps a little close to the line but Marcus Brigstocke's middle class outrage kept the conversation on track. this was laugh out loud funny and a great way to start our Fringe.

G star rating: 4/5 

P star rating: 4/5

Nik Coppin's Caricatures at Laughing Horse Free Festival at City Cafe

We had a good break after Early Edition and lunch at Mum's on Forrest Road, so we wandered along the Royal Mile. We popped in to the Fringe Friends' booking office, worth paying for this to skip the queue! Then as we passed the City Cafe we were handed a flyer for Nik Coppin's free show. The Free Fringe can sometimes be a risk but Nik Coppin was one worth taking. Nik's a stand-up comedian with a real skill for drawing caricatures. His pictures ranged from his family to Spiderman and President Obama, we had an education in Caribbean accents, found out who would win a fight between Spiderman and Wolverine and much more. Some light bribery with Haribo kept the audience guessing, even if responses were sometimes bizarre, his girlfriend was identified as his brother!

G star rating: 3/5

P star rating: 4/5

Thom Tuck at The Pleasance Dome

I loved Thom Tuck's stand up piece last year and so we had to go see his show again this year. This year Thom managed to appear even more eccentric and strangely middle-aged. A mixture of rambling and ranting, with some very loose connections this piece was perhaps not for everyone. But Thom plays with words and grammar with great comedy effect and he's still on my must see list for next year. 

G star rating: 4/5

P star rating: 2/5

Tricity Vogue's Ukulele Cabaret at Laughing horse Free Festival at the Counting House

My friend C had read good reviews about Tricity Vogue and a cabaret sounded like fun. Unfortunately it didn't stand up to the review. The acts that were on were pretty good but there was too much talking and not enough performance. The highlight was the final performer who sang 'When I'm screening Winders' a play on  George Formby's original. There was also a girl up from Bristol, straight off the plane who did an amusing Star Wars turn. The audience seemed to be enjoying it but I will not be going back next year.

G star rating: 2/5

P star rating: 3/5

Lights, Camera, Improvise at Underbelly Bristo Square

I love improvised comedy and this appealed in the programme and then we got a recommendation from a girl at work so that sealed the deal and off we headed. So it was down to us to choose the movie of our choice from the host's vast collection. The audience managed to come up with a challenge that seemed impossible: a Roman Epic, set in the Senate, with a scene in the dressmakers called 'Rome Wasn't Built in a Sleigh'. The performers then proceeded to make their task even harder by getting confused about whether Brutus (played by a girl) was in fact a woman or a man. They placed her eldest daughter in Jewish boarding school and then killed her off. The host made their lives even more difficult by picking up on every slip and forcing a 'directors cut' to explain it. But the highlight was the mournful gravestone, the most expressive inanimate object I have ever seen.

G star rating: 4.5/5

P star rating: 5/5

Frisky and Mannish: Extra-curricular Activities at Assembly on the Mound

I had already seen this in London along with a Fringe preview of their 27 Club. I'd found the 27 Club to be too dark for me and I was keen to see this again. It was well worth it from a Grime version of The Carpenters: On Top of the World to the Northern Pussycat Dolls. I still wonder how Frisky makes it through the whole Fringe with her voice intact, given the amount of high pitched screeching in the show. But once again Frisky and Mannish were a Fringe highlight and a high energy, professional performance that got our final Fringe evening off to a positive start.

G star rating: 4.5/5

P star rating: 4/5

Jonny and the Baptists at Underbelly

We loved their song of the day 'Not a pub' at the Early Edition and our friend C knew Jonny from her venue a couple of years previously. So we headed off for a little bit of satirical, musical fun in an exceedingly hot and sticky venue. There were a few last night high jinks and I'm surprised that Jonny didn't fall flat on his face, climbing all over the collapsible chairs. Mildly amusing Jonny and the Baptists are lovely way to spend and hour and they coped admirably with all sorts of technical mishaps and what looked like Jonny heading off in his own directions.

G star rating: 3/5

P star rating: 3/5

Spank! at Underbelly

We ended our Fringe with a night at Spank, an essential part of my Fringe. James and Leon were on form and Leon might say it was a long Fringe, but it didn't show. I can't really remember the acts which isn't a great sign, although one of the staff got his stag-night strip from a burlesque dancer in front of a raucous crowd and the final act of the night was successfully bullied into doing most of his act in his underpants. The biggest thanks of the night go to the Underbelly tech choosing the tracks after the show, my best ever post-Spank sound track, finishing the Fringe on a high, with just a touch of tinnitus.

G star rating: 3/5

P star rating: 1/5

For me, the Fringe was lacking a real five star performance this year, but we still had lots of fun and hopefully we will be heading back next year.

Books for Bank holidays

The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks (book club)
This was a nice light read as a change at book club, by the author of the Notebook. It is a real romantic read and you know where the story will end from half way, although it did keep me guessing. Glad I didn't go to see the movie as there is no way Zac Efron can pull off tough ex-marine Logan Thibault. All in all a good choice for your next holiday lounging by the pool.

Fifty Shades of Grey, Fifty Shades Darker and Fifty Shades Freed by E.L. James
Over the Bank Holiday I got absolutely hooked on E.L. James Fifty Shades books, so much so I read them all in one Bank Holiday. These were recommended to me at book club and the description as Mills & Boon on steroids was pretty accurate. Fifty Shades of Grey was a fast paced introduction to the characters, although perhaps not one I'd discuss with my mum! Fifty Shades Darker moved the story on and Christian's character developed but there was an added element of danger and mystery as his history started to catch-up with him. Although I tore through the last book, Fifty Shades Freed was almost a let down. The storyline was fun with some real intrigue including a kidnapping, but what let me down was the character development as I found myself going off both characters Christian became more protective and Ana spent her whole time feeling sorry herself as she tried to figure out the man she married. Although not for the easily embarrassed I'd recommend these books and if you have a Kindle no one will know what you are reading.

Kennel Maid Nan by Elinor M. Brent-Dyer
This was the second book from mum's latest Girls Gone By purchase and I was lucky enough to get my hands on it first. A complete change from my previous read but a lovely trip back to my childhood. Nan is typically naive as she heads to Miss Francie's kennels and gets caught up in some trouble. I learnt about house training puppies amongst other things but most of all I learnt that in the world of Elinor a good friend is all you need to help you stop an evil grown-up poisoning one of your puppies. A nice fun read, perfect for the end of a long day.

Same Kind of Different as Me by Ron Hall, Denver Moore and Lynn Vincent (book club)
This was pitched as controversial and so I read it with interest but was disappointed not to find any intrigue. The discussion at book club revealed that the religious elements of the book were the 'controversial' elements with people in the group being at times uncomfortable with the visions of angels and overtly Christian sections. This was not just the story of two men from very different backgrounds but the story of how one woman bound them together for life. The book was slow to start and I struggled to connect the two story lines as it jumped between characters. However once I got going I found a truly moving story of devotion hidden underneath.

Songs of Fire and Ice: Game of Thrones by George R.R. Martin
Ever since P heard about this series on the web he has been keen to read them. His enthusiasm got me started with the books and I may just be over taking him. this was another book where every chapter is a different character and although each chapter is clearly named I struggled to connect. However by the second time I came to each character I had got my head around it and enjoyed the story. Some story lines were stronger than others and I was sorry to see Eddard Stark die so early in these series. Paul described these as Lord of the Rings with less fantasy, there is also more killing and I'm not sure the writing is up to Tolkien. Now I know where this heading in the short term I think it is good enough to pick up Book Two and I'll let you know how I get on with that.

Forgotten books

I have been better at my theatre and ballet updates than the book updates this year so here is a catch-up on what I've been reading.

American Assassin by Vince Flynn
This was my first book read on the iPhone, however it was such a compelling story that I couldn't stop reading and soon got over that hitch. This book mixed my love of mysteries with an old love of war/spy books. This was more graphic and violent than previous books and included a healthy dose of revenge. Mitch Rapp was the central character and I'm not sure that I ever really liked him although he was on the 'good' side in this book about counter-terrorism efforts primarily in Beirut. Once I had finished the book I realised it was actually the latest in a series and I am glad I read this one first and am looking forward to reading the other books in the series. That all said the iPhone will not be replacing my Kindle and I only have free books on the iPhone and I suspect I will only finish them if they are really gripping.

Death Comes to Pemberley by PD James
A colleague recommended this book after reading it with her book club. I bought it and then suggested my dad might like to read it which meant I lost my Kindle into his hands over Christmas. Once it was returned I was distracted by other books but finally got round to reading this. I've not read PD James before but I am of course familiar with Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice in particular. PD James picks up six years after The Darcys' marriage and the world of of Austen is plunged into uncertainty and mystery when Lydia pitches up on the door step hysterical and claiming the Wickham has been murdered. Cleverly written the character continuity is right on the money and I didn't work it out until the very end when all was made clear with a confession. Having read this book I might try another of PD James books to see whether this was a one off.

Sister by Rosamund Lupton
This book was much more than a 'simple' murder mystery as it entered into the world of genetic treatments and cystic fibrosis. I was quite convinced by the 'unethical' trial processes in place I can't quite see that level of falsification passing muster in the real-world but as it was only a story I'll let them off!  I got drawn in and felt sorry both Bee and her dead sister Tess at different points throughout the story. Was it murder or suicide? I was with Bee throughout and at every twist and turn I realised maybe a page ahead of her that she was following the wrong route but even then I didn't see the ending coming. Another great addition to my murder mystery collection that kept me up late at night trying to reach the end and find out what really happened.

Falling Star by Diana Dempsey
I enjoyed this book both for the story line but also for the relevance to my work. Diana Dempsey used to be a broadcast journalists and although set in America this book gave me an insight into the hierarchy of the broadcast news programmes where the news anchor is king. A good mixture of the insights into what makes a good news story and the logistics of putting it all together mixed in with some sexism and a nice dollop of intrigue. Reading this reminded me a little bit of Gemma Halliday's Spying in High Heels with an under-prepared  girl 'investigating' and inevitably ending up in trouble. A good quick read with a neat resolution, I think I might look into some of Diana Dempsey's other books and who knows I might learn some more about TV journalism from them.

To Davy Jones Below by Carola Dunn
After a bit of a break I thought it was time to come back to Carola Dunn and the reading of this book seemed perfectly timed as the TV scheduling was fixated on Titanic it being a hundred years since the sinking. I think the break was a good idea as I really enjoyed this one although I was a bit surprised at how many people got knocked off on a ship without Alec and Daisy figuring out who did it. Mixed in with the whodunnit element was a good sprinkling of class snobbery and of course in true Daisy style it all came out in the wash. I'm looking forward to the next instalment after I've read a few more books in between.

Valeria's Last Stand by Marc Fitten (Book Club)
This was the first book since I joined The London Girly Book Club two years ago where no one in the room seemed to have a good thing to say about it. At first I thought I would quite enjoy this book but by the end of chapter one I wasn't convinced. I carried on and by the half way point I was just ploughing on to reach the end before Book Club. I found the storyline to be mundane, the characters were all unlovable, perhaps the problem was that it was all too much like real-life in a Hungarian village and I just couldn't connect. I was reminded of a Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka, however Marina Lewycka does not shy away from parodying her characters adding humour to lift what could have been a story of everyday life. I won a copy of Marc Fitten's next book Elza's Kitchen as an uncorrected proof and I'm not sure I can bring myself to read it.

The Chalet School and Robin by Caroline German
I grew up on a diet of school literature from Enid Blyton's Mallory Towers to my mum's collection of Abbey Girls (EJ Oxenham) and The Chalet School (E Brent-Dyer). I always wanted to go to the Chalet School but although that never happened I still love to curl up with on of these books. The Chalet School series has a number of gaps and also some inconsistencies which has left the series open to a number of filler books written by fans of the series. Mum's latest purchase was this one and it was a particularly good filler. I was impressed that the style was so close to the original books and although I had forgotten that Robin's time as head girl was not included in the series this book fitted in and cleverly added details to some of the stories mentioned later in the series but never spelled out.

Alice in Covent Garden

Last year we were disappointed to miss the debut of Alice in Wonderland at the Royal Ballet. We caught it on the TV and loved it but it is never the same as seeing it for real on the stage. This year we got organised I became a friend and we secured tickets for Alice (amongst other things).

Yesterday after a delightful afternoon at the V&A seeing the golden spider cloak, the British design exhibition including Kit William's fabulous golden masquerade hare and finally the Cecil Beaton royal photography exhibition mum and I headed to Covent Garden.

We enjoyed a light dinner at Cafe des Amis behind the opera house and then we headed in for a magical evening. One thing that Disney have done is sanitise Alice, my childhood memories of the book with the slightly ominous ink drawings has been replaced by a cute blonde girl and a jolly smiling purple cat. Tim Burton's movie adaptation perhaps pushed it too far in the other direction but the combination of Christopher Wheeldon, Joby Talbot and the wonderful Royal Ballet has hit the spot.

The special effects that I couldn't imagine on stage filled your vision and the drew you into the mysterious world of Lewis Carroll's mind. Lauren Cuthbertson proved that she created the role and her performance emanated a childlike wonder at the weird and wonderful things around her. Her performance skills along with the special effects meant I really believed that she could not only dance but grow and shrink as well. My only disappointment was the giant ballerina legs and arms, for me they detracted and I'd be interested to see the show without them.

I particularly love the way that the guests at Alice's tea party are realised later as the residents of Wonderland. Edward Watson translated wonderfully from a kindly Lewis Carroll to a slightly panicked and at times bewildered white rabbit. He was seemingly everywhere at once and it felt like by the end he had run a marathon keeping Alice out of trouble.

Fernando Montano replacing Eric Underwood as the caterpillar was a particular highlight for me. His body isolations and undulations really did verge on the exotic insect side of life. Another particularly special animal is the Cheshire cat, a giant animal created by a number of dancers, this Cheshire cat is mysterious and mischievous. It reminded me a bit of War Horse where you forget that the actors are there after just a few minutes. In this case I still wonder how so many people can make this jigsaw of cat parts come together so cohesively that you can almost here him purr!

Jumping on to the Mad Hatters's tea party with giant teapots and tea cakes Steven McRae gave a manically mad performance and his skilled tapping meant he was a strong part of the percussion section. You couldn't help but feel sorry for James Wilkie in the role of the sleepy dormouse continually shoved into the teapot. I would have loved to see more of this lovely trio although the March Hare was rather forgotten.

The flower dance was beautiful with whirling colours and patterns. Then on to the garden for some interesting gardening techniques and croquet. Painting the roses red, or maybe not, the three gardeners, with James Hay delivering a beautifully funny performance when his tree just wouldn't stay red. Laura Morera delivered a crazed red queen with precision and a touch of comedy. The flamingoes were perfect both the dancers and the puppet variety, having worked with puppets I know how hard it is to give a really believable performance and to carry it off while dancing impeccably was a real feat on everyone's part. Meanwhile the hedgehogs were adorably cheeky and I wish I could take one home with me.

The court room scene was just the way I had imagined it as a child reading the books and I haven't forgotten Jack the Knave of Hearts. This is his trial after all and if the crime was a great performance then Frederico Bonelli was guilty. He gave an engaging performance and throughout it felt like he was just a touch older than Alice after more than she was willing give. But at the end I was pleased to see that he got the kiss he had worked so hard to earn. Bonelli is my one to watch list and I'll be looking for him on the cast lists.

So my overall impression, I'm already planning tickets for next year's performance and I shall be bringing P with me as part of his slow education in the wonderful world of ballet. I need to see Alice again as there was so mich going on I know I missed something good. Perhaps next time i might be able to work out which came first Wheeldon's choreography or Talbot's music. It was as though they shared a dream in the creation of this ballet as both parts worked seamlessly throughout and nothing grated.

I have just one question, any chance of Through the Looking Glass? I'd love to see the Jabberwocky and Tweedledum and Tweedledee realised on stage at the Royal Opera House. Now I'm off to plan how I'm going to fit in the current Royal Ballet triple bill...

Oh What a Night!

We finally made it to see Jersey Boys and I'm so glad we did. This was the story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and what a story it was. I knew that the music was going to be great and that there'd be so many songs I didn't know they'd sung. What I didn't know was how the seasons changed over the years with Frankie Valli staying the only constant. I was also surprised that the band wasn't Frankie's in the first place and that they grew up out a pretty rough area robbing jewellers and hanging on street corners.

The set was very simple, stark black metal grills and a walk way, with occasional screen additions. The screens played multiple roles throughout and the use of pop art complemented some of the darker set elements. The cast were adept at bringing furniture and props on and off seamlessly between scenes and, with the right lighting and some of the larger pieces rising up through the floor, a simple set was effortlessly transformed from a jail to a smoky jazz cafe and then an arena stage!

I loved seeing the inspiration behind the songs, although I'm not sure 'December 1963' will be the same again...  I thought there'd be more of those famous red jackets and in comparison a lot of their suits seemed bland but I'm sure at the time they were the height of fashion. Talking of fashion dancing has changed and boy bands these days don't have the same snappy moves although the 'step click' is still going strong!

But what I really loved about Jersey Boys was the feeling that when they were acting their stage performances I felt like I was really at a concert and not at a musical about the band. The audience got into it and they used the blinders on stage to great effect. The television filming sections were well done too, somehow you felt like you had an insiders view on how it was shot with them all on stage facing away but a screen showing you what TV viewers would have seen and at times it seemed like they were showing real footage, they weren't.

I had a few gripes, Frankie's mike was glaringly obvious in the middle of his forehead when everyone else's was well concealed and the levels on the moving drum kit were out often obscuring the lyrics which was shame. However the show was nominated for an Olivier award and I really think it deserved one, it certainly deserved the standing ovation at the end. I bought a 'best of' album when I got home and I'm still singing the songs a week later! 

Shakespeare at the ballet

Mum and I were back at our favourite ballet venue, The Royal Opera House. We had gone primarily to see Carlos Acosta dance in Kenneth Macmillan's The Song of the Earth. But the evening started with Frederick Ashton's The Dream, a ballet of Shakespeare's Midsummer Night's Dream. It was lovely to see this old favourite as a ballet and after a while I even managed to tune out the whispering child sat behind us.

The changeling Indian boy was adorable and I was impressed at how long he 'slept' at the back of the stage. It was a shame that Marcelo Gomes in the role of Oberon seemed a little unsure at times, however the dancer covering for Puck was incredible. Unfortunately it was a last minute change I can't remember who was dancing, he had all the spring you would expect from Puck, even from the Amphitheatre you could see the mischievous glint in his eyes.

It was Johnathan Howells in the role of Bottom who really stole the show. He was amusing and made a convincing enchanted donkey. I am eternally impressed by men dancing en pointe and Howells managed to skip and jump while wearing hooves on his hands and a great big donkey head. Even in human form Howells was exactly like I imagined Bottom to be, although perhaps the hair was a bit too wild for me...

We had an obligatory ice cream in the interval and then it was back for Song of the Earth. I have not seen a ballet with singers before and this was the place to start. The music by Mahler was enchanting and the singers standing on alternate sides of the stage blended in and became a seamless part of the piece. Carlos Acosta was as captivating as usual, but a pleasant surprise for the evening was Marianela Nunez who was unbelievable in songs two and six.

I would definitely take the opportunity to see this pair of ballets again but would request that children are kept quiet by their families and that the Royal Opera House bans paper and plastic bags from the auditorium.

The cold days...

The temperatures have dropped down and I've found more time for my books. So here's what I've read curled up under the duvet.

Vigilante by Kerry Wilkinson

This is the second Jessica Daniel book and having enjoyed the first one I quickly got the second. I was pleased to see Jessica get a boyfriend, but then as she got more and more caught up in the case I became increasingly frustrated at the assumptions she was making. This book was where I started to draw likenesses to Rebus my original favourite detective and by the end it felt like Jessica could be Rebus' daughter as they share so many character traits. I wasn't as bought in to this story as I was to that of Locked In but it was still a good read.

The Woman in Black by Kerry Wilkinson

At the end of Vigilante I wanted to see what happened next and really I wanted to see whether the last text Jessica received in Vigilante was the glimmer of hope I was waiting for. This story really puzzled me as I tried to work it all out but the likeness to Rebus came out even more strongly and I didn't think the book stood up to Rankin's writing. However I will still be buying the next book to see what Jessica gets up to next and the Jessica Daniel novels are an all round easy read.

The Island by Victoria Hislop

One of the girls at work read this and recommended it and after it sat on my Kindle for a while I opened it up. This book was definitely worth the wait, another book where the daughter unravels the secrets of her family. A leper colony off the coast of Crete took centre stage and all the misconceptions about the disease took centre stage as families had their lives destroyed by this terrible disease. I realised that I held misconceptions about leprosy and now I know that you don't catch leprosy form casual contact, that for some people it can stay stable for years. The biologist in me enjoyed the knocked back sub-lot about the first treatments and the risks people took to try new treatments with potential horrendous side effects. But what I really loved about this book was that none of the characters seemed to be too self-obsessed. They all made mistakes and no-one was too good to be true and at the end I stayed up until 1am to finish this book in just two days as I was so desperate to find out what happened.

The Skeleton in the Closet by MC Beaton

This was a strange book all of Fell's life he has stayed home and worked to support his parents. When both his parents die Fell is left a small fortune and then the questions start, where did it come from? Fell moves Maggie in and predictably Maggie falls in love with Fell while fell simply sees Maggie as a frump. Throughout the book the mystery becomes clearer but as Fell and Maggie are just a little naive the story seems to be poorly constructed with limited intrigue. I found all the mishaps, a burglary and a car bomb a step too far and  I wasn't invested in Fell or Maggie but I read through to the end and despite one last fright the story concluded as expected with a suitably happy ending.

Last up I'm ashamed to admit that for the first time since Far From the Madding Crowd was my GCSE book I have failed to finish a book...

Bad Science by Ben Goldacre

I used to enjoy reading popular science and this book sounded like my kind of reading. Although there were some interesting points about the placebo effect which I'm always fascinated by this book was full of vitriol and after a quarter of the book I felt like I was simply reading a self-absorbed rant and decided that the content did not outweigh the lack of style. Safe to say I will not be finishing this book and I was sorry that a science book broke my usually good reading record.

A night at the ballet...

This week was the week that ballet was in all the papers and I rounded it off with a night at Sadler's Wells. It was a snap decision on Friday to book the ticket to see Ivan Putrov's Men in Motion when I saw it was on in the morning paper. It was my first time to Sadler's Wells a place which I had read about as a child growing up reading Lorna Hill. The theatre was a simple space and I was sat a the back of the upper circle which was incredibly steep but very reasonably priced. The real reason I booked the ticket was to see Sergei Polunin dance and I wasn't disappointed.

I'm often frustrated that male dancers seem to be restricted to simply lifting and supporting the women. So although I had gone to see one dancer in particular I was delighted to watch the talented cast of men dance and leap their way through the pieces. The evening started with Le Spectre de la Rose, a hundred years after it was first performed, Igor Kolb captured the imagination from the moment he leapt through the window onto the stage. Then it was the piece I was there for as Sergei Polunin bewitched with his solo Narcisse, Full of spectacular leaps Polunin seemed to hang in the air and I would be sorry if I never see him dance again.

The last piece before the interval was Ashton's Dance of the Blessed Spirits danced by the man behind the evening, Ivan Putrov. I'm sorry to say I don't really remember a lot about this piece and perhaps it was because the piece was calmer and didn't have the vitality of the other pieces. The next piece was the AfterLight, danced by Argentinian Daniel Proietto. The rest of the audience seemed to love this piece out of all of the pieces, however I really wasn't sure, the swirling lighting made me feel slightly sick and perhaps it was the desired effect but Proietto merged with the lighting and I didn't feel like I had seen a performance but more a piece of installation art.

I loved the final piece, Ithaka choreographed by Ivan Putrov and the simplicity of the costumes and set combined with fabulous performances meant the audience were drawn in and the evening finished on a high. All the dancers received great appreciation from the audience with flowers thrown from the stalls and multiple bows. I was glad I bought the ticket and saw this performance even if it was incomplete as some of the dancers were unable to get visas to be in London for the performance.

Festive reading

The Christmas break was a great opportunity to catch-up on my books and here's what I read:

Nelson by UKCC edited by Rob Davis and Woodrow Phoenix
This was a gift from P for Christmas, guided by me as I'd seen a copy previously. This was the beautifully illustrated story of Nel, created by 54 talented British artists. Each artist illustrated one day from a year of Nel's birth starting with her birth. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, I couldn't wait to find out what happened next in Nel's life and the constantly changing illustrative style just pulled you along too. I'm not normally a comic book girl but this story did what it set out to do and showed that British illustration is more than just Marvel, Beano, Dandy or MAD. I definitely recommend this as a good read and as it's sale supports Shelter you can feel good about spoiling yourself. Oh and if you enjoy 1978 then check out my friend Katie's blog for more of her work or indulge in her bimonthly zine, Green Bean.

Against All Odds: The Most Amazing True Life Story You'll Ever Read by Paul Connelly
This was a tough read as the true life story of a boy's life in a children's home. When the police turn up at Paul's home he is shocked to find that most of the boys he grew up with are dead and this book looks at the horrendous abuse these children suffered at the hands of those to whom their care was entrusted. Hard reading that brought a tear to my eye not sure I'll be reading it again though.

Last Train from Liguria by Christine Dwyer Hickey
I enjoyed this book as a family mystery, set in immediately pre-war Italy this story follows the tale of an English girl sent out to be governess to a young boy. This story is told from two people's perspective, the English governess and the granddaughter of an old lady lying in hospital. My one problem with the story is that it never told you what happened to Alec (the boy) or Edward (his piano teacher). These two characters were central to the story and I was sad never to find out what happened to them. If you don't mind the alternating chapters and the hanging end then this is definitely worth a read.

That Summer in Ischia by Penny Feeny
Another family mystery with collapsing friendships added to the mix. Helena and Liddy worked as au pairs on a beautiful, remote Greek island and what happened that summer broke their friendship seemingly forever. Allie, Helena's daughter meets Liddy and what she learns from Liddy sends her back to Ischia to find out what really happened that summer and most importantly to find her father. A story of betrayal, innocence, love affairs, friendships and intrigue which from the moment Allie gets involved moves forward quickly and satisfyingly answers al your questions by the end of the book.

Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay (Book club)
A great choice by my book club that I can't wait to discuss. This book was based on the events of Vel' d'Hiv, the French mass round-up of their Jewish citizens in occupied France. This wasn't something I had ever heard of and this book does a great job to bring distressing actions to the broader general public. Another story told from two perspectives, a little girl (Sarah) who was rounded up on the night of Vel' d'Hiv and an American journalist (Julia) who is tasked with writing about it on the sixtieth anniversary. I found Julia a little self-absorbed and so slightly annoying but that wasn't enough to break my interest and I read this book in just 24 hours.

Breaking the Silence by Diane Chamberlain
I didn't connect this book to The Midwife's Confession read and reviewed in June last year but the writing style was definitely familiar. This book was the story of Laura's attempt to get her daughter Emma to talk after she witnesses Laura's husband commit suicide. Another gripping tale with stories from across the generations. Perhaps a little far fetched at times but with interesting approaches to Alzheimer's, mutism and psychiatric experimentation. Based on this and The Midwife's Confession I think I will be reading more of Diane Chamberlain's books.

A Sister's Gift by Giselle Green
Hollie and Scarlett have a strained relationship right from the start of the book, two sisters with a secret or two between them. When Scarlett offers to act as a surrogate for for Hollie has she really changed, is it really a gift or will the terms be too high? A good read, as secrets are created, revisited and shared and world's come tumbling down and are rebuilt on stronger foundations. The book leaves you wondering what is really important in your life and what would you be willing to sacrifice for it? 

Winter reading

So I've failed again at updating this regularly but here goes with the books I've been reading recently.

Becoming Madame Mao by Anchee Min
I read The Last Empress years ago and loved so trying this book seemed like a good idea. This biography style book is written somewhere between fact and fiction and offers an insight into life behind the closed doors of Mao's life. Although Madame Mao is not exactly a lovely character you can't help feeling sorry for her at times throughout the book. What really came out in this book was the level of suspicion and back stabbing that went on at all levels within the regime. I think perhaps my next step is to read a true fact book to see how much of this was true.

I Don't Know How She Does It by Allison Pearson
This one really indulged my old love of girly books. Following the fast track life of high flying banker and mother of two Kate Reddy. If Kate had been a real person I too wouldn't know how she did it. Her banking job felt not just full time but double time, at one point Kate even leaves her family on holiday to get back to the office. Although not completely typical of the genre this book still delivered laughs, tears and a little bit of can't put it down. I'm pleased to say that as you might expect it all works out well for Kate in the end and I recommend this read for anyone that used to love chick-lit but finds it just a bit too predictable now.

The Hangman's Daughter by Oliver Potzsch
An historical thriller was the description on GoodReads, sounds right up my street (although only in books, films described this way are not my thing). Some fascinating insights into life in Germany in the 1600s, the fear and suspicion with which the town hangman was viewed. A little bit of witch hunting thrown in for good measure along with a 'devil' with a bone hand and a number of murders. As the hangman and the young doctor join forces that story takes a number of twists and turns as you try and figure out who is behind the mystery and why they are doing it. The graphic descriptions and torture sequences mean this book isn't for everyone but if you read Dracula's Guest then this book would be good for you.

Nee Naw: Real Life Dispatches From Ambulance Control by Suzi Brent
Back to the ambulance blogs now, this one was recommended by Tom Reynolds whose own books I reviewed in previous posts. Suzi writes from a new perspective, behind the phones and I thought it was really interesting to see what goes on when you call an ambulance. I was amazed at the number of people who apparently don't think they need to give an address and also the crazy things you might call an ambulance for. I was also interested to learn that there is a whole team for dispatching separate from the call-takers. Not as much blood as in Tom's books but still some crazy tales of medical drama on the streets / telephones of London, for a Casualty lover like me well worth a read.

Rapid Response: True Stories of My Life as a Paramedic by Lysa Walder
More ambulance drama and this time back on the road. More mad call outs, I mean who calls an ambulance for a cold? Or even worse goes to A&E thinks the wait is too long, goes round the corner and calls an ambulance, note to the wise this won't get you a queue jump. Much like Tom and Suzi, Lysa is an engaging author and once again I am willing on all these ambulances to hit their government targets on response times. If you didn't like Tom and Suzi's books, don't read this, if you did then i suggest this is a must read title for you.

Later this weekend I will bring you a review of Gaucho's in Richmond and the Richmond theatre's Cinderella, my first panto in years. I'm sure Christmas will bring me new books and failing that plenty of time to fill with reading and maybe even blogging so here's to better blogging over Christmas and the New Year!

Summer reading...

So I'm nearly back up to date on the book front and August was a light month on the book front, possibly due to the distraction of a new iPhone...

So just three books to get through in August.

Back on Murder by J Mark Bertrand
Another who dunnit, I think perhaps best suited for a Rankin fan like me. A grumpy US detective that goes off-piste and gets himself into trouble reminds me of Edinburgh's Rebus, they even had the young, good looking girl detective. I'm not sure if it was because I missed the Edinburgh element or the case was not as unusual as Rankin's but something about this just didn't click for me. I wanted to find out what happened but I wished I was reading it in paper so that I could flick to back and see, I'd pick up a Rebus novel rather than this if I was you...

A Mourning Wedding by Carola Dunn
A misleading title if ever there was one as there was no wedding... I think the biggest shock in this whole thing was that Daisy's best fried who should have known better invited Daisy to stay, the result two deaths and her fiancée was also nearly killed. That said it was still a good read although not one of the best in the story I worked this one out just too early.

More Blood, More Sweat and Another Cup of Tea by Tom Reynolds
I love Tom Reynolds straight to the point approach, I read his first book just before I started this blog and so when I saw the second one floating around I gave it a try. It was just as good as the first and amazingly it never got boring, the number of cases an ambulance crew sees gives Tom a wealth of material, from matern-a-taxi, to colds, to A&E queue jumpers including just a few real emergencies. I guess you have to be one of those people who likes to watch Casualty for this one to hit the mark, but as I'm one of those folk that's fine and I loved it...

Catching up on the books...

So without my own laptop it is pretty hard to keep up my blog and then the Edinburgh Fringe Festival distracted me so I now have a lot of catching up to do and that means the detail is going to drop off, sorry...

June's reading list
Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet by Jamie Ford
I loved this book, another book I found by chance on Amazon, but so glad I did. Now I love stories about life at home during World War 2 and this one starts with the story of an old man but quickly goes back to his childhood. A beautiful story of a little Chinese boy who struggles to fit in, with Americans calling him Japanese and his own community laughing at him for going to American school. His one friend a little Japanese girl, his father forbids the friendship and when she is interred he goes to great lengths to find her. The story is fascinating but also a moving story of childhood friendship, try it yourself if you see a copy...

The Godless Boys by Naomi Wood
This one was just a bit odd, and kind of 'Lord of the Flies' but still a good read. Everyone who does not believe in God has been shipped off to an island of the coast of the UK (maybe a Shetland Island). On  the Island a group of boys are 'policing' the island and punishing those they suspect of believing. I warn you the end will make you cry...

My Dad is Ten Years Old, and it's Pure Weird by Mark O'Sullivan
This story was another tough one, the story of a man who is severely brain damaged in an accident, to the point his children can't call him dad any more in case he freaks. This story is told from the perspective of his young daughter and it is a fascinating insight into the impact of severe brain injury on a family, both the adults in the relationship, the children and the person themselves. At some points I was shouting at the characters in the book, frustrated that they couldn't see the cracks forming and widening, but at the end of the book I was satisfied.

The Midwife's Confession by Diane Chamberlain
Another book that made me cry right from the start, the book opens with a moving tale of a woman committing suicide. From there the mystery deepens as her two best friends try to work out why she did it. Then each chapter a new twist comes out and the mystery deepens, the final twist I worked out a good way before the end and was a little frustrated that the characters couldn't see it. That said if you liked 'The Memory Keeper's Daughter' you will like this so give it a shot...

Shadow of the Serpent by David Ashton
This one I remember little of, however I do remember the way that I could feel Edinburgh under my skin. Although the book was set in history the alleys of Edinburgh still feel the same. There are a number of grisly murders in this book and if you're squeamish then don't read this one.

Murder on the Mind by LL Bartlett
Another whodunnit but this one with a new angle... the central character has a brain injury and ever since he has been plagued with images of a brutal murder. But is this because he did it or does he have another sense thanks to his injury? Well I'm not about to give it away so you'll have to read it to find out...

July's reading list
Murder on the Flying Scotsman by Carola Dunn
I love the drama of these books although I'm sure I don't why anyone would invite Daisy Dalrymple to stay any more as every time she comes to stay at least one person dies. That said in the post-war period it would appear that most of the upper class families had an insufferable older member and a killer in their midst, so I'm sure Daisy was happy to marry 'down class' to an Inspector Detective of Scotland Yard. Another in the same vein as her other novels but still a puzzle I wanted to unravel.

Dead in the Water by Carola Dunn
This novel is set at the Henley regatta, once again Daisy proves to be an unlucky house guest as another man dies.

Sick Notes by Dr Tony Copperfield
As a healthcare PR practitioner, I have been known to read Pulse magazine (A GP publication) and Dr Copperfield's column on the back page was always the highlight, the one article I would definitely read from start to finish. So when his book came up on Amazon at a good price I snapped it up. It was a truly amusing read and had me gasping at the amazing inability of some people to work out whether they are really sick. It was also interesting to read a bout a GP's frustration at the inadequacies of the referral system. An amusing insight into the life of an NHS GP, anyone with a slight interest in healthcare / loved Dr in the House will love this too...

It's Your Time You're Wasting by Frank Chalk
As the child of a teacher this looked amusing and I wasn't let down. Although Mr Chalk is just a supply teacher his stories of the one school he worked at rang true. Some of them I still can't believe how children talk to their teachers these days... I would never have dared when I was at school, in fact I still wouldn't dare.

Ain't no Sunshine by Leslie Du Bois
Another moving book of childhood friendship that grows to more. It was a heart rending read, with racial segregation and domestic abuse. The final twist in the book was surprising, despite working it out a good five years before it was really revealed. I think it was a really worthwhile read and I enjoyed it and would recommend it for others.

Never a Bride by Amelia Grey
A regency novel, a fun story with the usual, girl loves man, man eventually loves girl, problem happens and it all goes wrong then....you guessed it girl gets boy. An easy read that I whipped through and there was even a little mystery running all the way through that was satisfactorily solved at the end :-)

So I'm now just a month behind and with a new laptop on order I aim to get August up soon and then maybe even get through my other books as I read them or at least every other book... I definitely shouldn't leave it this long and I apologise for the sparse nature of some of the reviews above...