Tanya Bullock

This is the second book I've read by Tanya Bullock and whilst very different to Homecoming, it has the same trademark warmth and poignancy that I associate with this author. Tanya Bullock doesn't just write a story, she creates characters of such depth that you easily warm to them and the story remains with you long after you've turned the final page.

What a fantastic cast of characters we have here in The Lonely Hearts Crime Club. The story starts with Aggie being attacked in her own home and each of her neighbours showing varying degrees of concern when they hear Aggie's dog barking in her flat. As with all social situations, some people know Aggie better than others but, once the gravity of Aggie's situation becomes clear, the neighbours get together to piece together the clues of what could possibly have happened to Aggie.

This is one of those books where each reader will have their own favourite character; either pregnant recovering alcoholic Ella, cameraman Ethan, socially awkward William or my personal favourite actress Birdie, who dreams of being escorted to the Oscars by Hugh Jackman (well of course, who doesn't?!). So not only do we get a mystery to solve, there are also several different colourful lives into which the reader can sneak a peek and uncover each character's story.

Although there are some serious subjects in The Lonely Hearts Crime Club, for me it's ultimately a fun, lighthearted story with a cast of characters who would rival the Scooby gang. Beautifully written with sensitivity for each character's flaws, the added sprinkling of humour makes The Lonely Hearts Crime Club a highly entertaining read.

I chose to read an ARC and this is my honest and unbiased opinion.… (mais)

With a title of 'Homecoming' and the opening chapter referring to Tom returning back from war, my heart attempted to prepare itself for any shocks and surprises that might be in store in this short story. If I thought I could have ever prepared myself for this book, I was wrong! My mouth gaped open in surprise at the end of chapter 2 as I realised that my initial thoughts were wrong, in fact so completely wrong that they were blown out of the water!

This is such a hard book to review without giving anything away, but for such a short story it packs a big punch. The main characters were immediately given a place in my heart and I warmed to them as if I had known them for years. I was so disappointed when I came to the end as I wanted to keep reading about Rosie and Tom.

Homecoming is so poignant and beautiful that I intend to read it again in the future and, although the surprises won't be there, I'm sure it will be even more enjoyable. Homecoming is a heart-warming story about love; how love knows no bounds and never dies.

I received this e-book from the publisher, Blackbird Digital Books, in exchange for an honest review.… (mais)