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Linda Jeffreys

@lindajbookdragon

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Avid Reader and Bibliophile 📚
Loves Books, Coffee ☕️ and Wine🍷
Loves Mythology, Fantasy/Romantasy, Romantic/Historical Fiction and Murder Mystery.

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Caged by Lucy Pussett.

When the two men accused of the attempted murder of Angelique Santoro’s gay best friend Gareth walk free from court on a technicality, outrage erupts outside the courthouse. Amid the chaos, Angelique lashes out at a man mocking LGBTQ+ supporters whilst burning a rainbow flag – a single violent moment that changes her life forever.

Convicted of premeditated GBH and inciting a riot, Angelique is sentenced to three years at HMP Hardwick, a Category A prison housing some of Britain’s most notorious criminals. Although Angelique has always had the ability to defend herself, now her mere survival depends on far more than strength alone.

Wow this is a brilliant conclusion to Lucy’s “Diary of a Contemporary Women Trilogy” Although this is the third book in the series the way it’s been written can easily be read as a standalone.

Angelique’s actions had landed her in prison, where on one hand she befriends women haunted by violence - on the other the story of survival and her iron-clad resilience which is often tested by betrayal, danger and jealousy.

Lucy certainly shows the complicated mix of love, fear, loyalty and survival behind bars…while also showing that life continues for the loves one Angelique had left behind.

The prison sections were especially interesting and gave a real insight into life behind bars. Some parts are shocking and quite emotional, but thats what makes it so raw and powerful.
I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to read each chapter as it was written by the author over a 12 months period. Once my copy from Amazon arrived l decided to reread it.

This is a fast paced, gritty, unflinching novel that you can’t put down…and IMO Lucy Pussett’s @lucy_pussett best book in the series. Do yourself a favour and read it. This book can be purchased on Amazon in paperback and e-book.
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#cagedbook #lucypussett #supportindieauthors
#indieauthor #diaryofacontemporarywoman by @lindajbookdragon

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8 days ago

Time Folds for US by Natalie Sol Gallagher.

I was lucky enough to receive an ebook of this novel from @vickyjossmarketing and l’m so pleased l did…l loved this storyline.

Rhiannon and George Rosen are too broke to file for divorce, but also too broken to stay together.
When they inherit a cottage in northern England, left to them by George’s father they believe selling that cottage was going to be the solution that would allow them to finally part ways. However, when the mysterious cottage drops them in the early 15th century, they realise their marital problems are minuscule against facing survival in medieval England.

“Time Folds for Us” is a story rich with interesting, complex characters and an intriguing time-travel plot. The storyline was fascinating and told in a way that was honesty quite believable. Even though it is about time travel, what makes it work is the characters felt so real.

I’ve always love novels set in the 15/16th century…my all time favourite book is Deborah Harkness’ “Shadow of Night” from her “All Souls Trilogy” this was also based on time-travel and set in a very well researched 16th Century London. Time Folds for Us is also extremely well researched plus a compelling storyline that kept me invested right till the very end.

The author has a very witty writing style which flows beautifully…this is an entertaining read that blends heartfelt relationships with a historical view of everyday life in the 15th century…BTW it will definitely make you eternally grateful for the comforts of our modern day world.

It’s emotional, engaging, and very easy to read..plus the author concludes the story in a very satisfying way.
If you love historical romantic fiction with a fantasy twist “Time Folds for Us” by Natalie Sol Gallagher aka @natsolgal.author is an excellent choice and l highly recommend you check it out.
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#timefoldsforus #nataliesolgallagher #timetravel by @lindajbookdragon

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15 days ago

The Sweetest Fiend by Raven Kennedy.

Today l called into the Bound in Whitley Bay my favourite Bookstore to pick up my pre-ordered Independent Bookstore special edition of Raven Kennedy’s new book “The Sweetest Fiend”.

This is the first book in an alluring and addictive romantasy duology set in a world of fae and dark magic, loosely inspired by the legend of the Pied Piper. I started listening to the audiobook this morning and already I’m hooked.

“The Plated Prisoner” written by Raven Kennedy just happens to be one of my most favourite series so l’m hoping this one hits the spot as well…I have no doubt it will as @ravenkennedybooks writing is lush and immersive and flows like a dream.

On top of that Slade Ravinger aka King Rot the Plated Prisoner MMC is the ultimate dark knight with a razor-sharp edge and is up there among my top 5 favourite MMC’s that’s how much I loved him, so l’m excited to see how this MMC the Piper aka Varrik fares because after King Rot the expectations are high…very high indeed.

I will post a review as soon as l finish the book and thank you once again to @forumbookscorbridge the Bound never fails to deliver the goods.
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#thesweetestfiend #ravenkennedy #theplatedprisonerseries #greatbooks #newreleasebooks by @lindajbookdragon

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23 days ago

Yesterday l watched the new Amazon Prime movie “The Love Hypothesis” twice!! This is a new romantic comedy that’s based on one of my favourite books by Ali Hazelwood, with the same name.

It follows Olive Smith a PhD student played by Lili Reinhart who is crushing on the same guy as her best friend, Anh. To convince Anh she’s over her crush, Olive begins fake-dating Dr Adam Carlsen play by Tom Bateman to prove she’s moved on. At the same time, Olive is chasing her dream to cure pancreatic cancer by finding the right lab to fund her studies.

l Loved it…readers of Ali Hazelwood’s novel should find plenty in it to cover the appeal of the book, while newcomers looking for a charming rom-com can enjoy without reading the book.

Lili Reinhart and Tom Bateman generate enough chemistry to make an extremely familiar formula feel well worth watching thanks to their classic rom-com patter and some wonderful geeky DNA. Lili brings warmth to Olive without polishing away her anxieties, while Tom makes Adam’s intimidating reputation coexist with his more isolated personality. Two attractive, socially awkward scientists pretending to date to assist their own personal agendas.

Lili Reinhart and Tom Bateman give the movie the spark it needs. Rachel Marsh cast as Anh and Jaboukie Young-White as Malcom strengthen an ensemble that makes friendship feel genuinely important,

The Stanford research environment gives “The Love Hypothesis” its identity, particularly because Olive’s experience as an underfunded woman navigating a male-dominated scientific world creates pressures beyond her romantic life.

Yes it is different to the book but every adaptation is, and I think it does quite well. It gets too confusing if you’ve got too many characters or side plots in a movie. In a book, you’ve got more time to develop characters. Only the parts that felt necessary to serve the plot were kept in,
it streamlines the characters so it can convey the story’s simplicity in a movie…

IMO it’s a comforting, highly watchable, and funny movie that breathes necessary life back into the modern rom-com genre.
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#thelovehypothesismovie #thelovehypothesis #alihazelwood #lilireinhart #tombateman by @lindajbookdragon

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25 days ago

Why I love audiobooks.

I used to be quite religious about books, and didn’t consider it “real reading” to listen to an audiobook. That has certainly changed. By no means do I exclusively listen to audiobooks - I do read e-books, occasionally books on paper and still collect my favourite books…But more and more have I transitioned to audiobooks, and here’s why:

I can close my eyes, do the dishes, do some chores - you name it. The point is I don’t have to sit down and stare at the page.

Not only am particular about which author’s book l read but the narrators must be good and have great voice acting performance. Some of my favourite narrators are so good l can see past the words and sort of experience the book as a movie in my head…believe me, that is possible with a good voice acting performance. If he or she is an awesome storyteller, it’s kind of magical.

I love to lie in bed and listen to a soothing voice reading one of my Romantasys, Contemporary Romances or listening to Andy Serkis reading The Fellowship of the Ring, The Hobbit or The Silmarillion. I love being able to just relax and add multiple sensory experiences to the book.

I’m currently re-listening to “Love Theoretically” one of my favourite romances by Ali Hazelwood who is also one of my auto-buy authors, brilliantly narrated by Therese Plummer. Other favourite narrators are Teddy Hamilton, Sean Masters, Shane East, Jason Clarke, Rebecca Soler and Callie Dalton.

Are you a audiobook lover? taken in Whitley Bay by @lindajbookdragon

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a month ago

The Love Hypothesis movie.

I’ve been excited about the adaptation of this book since it was first announced “The Love Hypothesis” is definitely one of my favourite contemporary romances written by one of my auto buy authors Ali Hazelwood.

Ali Hazelwood’s STEM romances have captured the hearts of readers everywhere…mine included and for the first time, her books are getting the Hollywood treatment with the upcoming “The Love Hypothesis” movie, starring Lili Reinhart as Olive Smith and Tom Bateman as Adam Carlsen, releasing September 23rd on Prime Video and l can’t wait 🙌

For those who haven’t read the book.
The Love Hypothesis follows Olive Smith a Ph.D. candidate, as she gets unexpectedly caught in a whirlwind fake-dating scheme. When Olive’s best friend confesses feelings for Olive’s crush, in an attempt to convince her friend she’s moved on, she impulsively kisses moody professor Dr. Adam Carlsen. The kiss quickly turns into a full-on fake-dating relationship for mutually beneficial purposes. However, as real feelings start emerging, things get complicated fast.

One of my other favourites from Ali Hazelwood has also been picked up by Amazon Prime “Love Theoretically” and there are rumours that Netflix will be doing an adaptation of Ali’s “Deep End” which is a wonderful comeback for great Rom-Coms.
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#thelovehypothesis #thelovehypothesismovie #alihazelwoodbooks taken in Whitley Bay by @lindajbookdragon

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a month ago

My Odyssey movie review.

I think by now you’ll know how much l love Mythology which is why l was so desperate to see Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey”.
I’ve read the Odyssey a couple of times including Emily Wilson’s translation so l wasn’t going into the cinema blind, not knowing what to expect.

Matt Damon gives a powerhouse, oscar winning performance as war weary Odysseus, the military commander from Ithaca appointed by the Greek king Agamemnon. I’ve always despised Agamemnon in every mythological story he appears in. Agamemnon is cleverly portrayed by Benny Safdie, brief but an effective performance…his face always mysteriously masked in a Batman-type helmet…so Nolan.

The Greeks’ eventual victory over Troy is achieved after Odysseus’ brilliant tactical deception of the supposed precious gift from the gods…the famous wooden horse of Troy.
After the brutal sacking of Troy, Odysseus and his men embark on their chaotic sea journey of survival. On the way dealing with monsters such as the Cyclops, Laestrygonians, Circe, Calypso, the alluring Sirens, the tentacled sea monster Scylla and constantly accompanied by the sorrowing goddess Athena (Zendaya), who is Odysseus’s ally.

“Yes” there are some broad-brush moments in the dialogue, however, the movie is the definition of epic. The cinematography is incredible and the music amazing.

Other stand out performances, Anne Hathaway as Penelope, and Robert Pattinson shines as the villainous creepy Antinous, a man so snide, petty
and two-faced that you want to reach up and slap him. For me Odysseus’ blind manservant Eumaeus who was brilliantly portrayed by John Leguizamo wins every scene he’s in.

Overall the Odyssey results is a gigantic, three-hour vision, that does not yield, a grim resolution to make sense of ruined lives and most importantly conveying the true cost of war. Which is especially clear in one of Odysseus’ flashbacks, a burning building, collapses and you can sense the heat and weight of the impact, just as we can when watching footage from real 21st-century war zones. IMO an Oscar worthy movie which is a must see on the big screen.
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#theodysseymovie taken in Jam Jar Cinema by @lindajbookdragon

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2 months ago

Finding Arthur Whittle by Helen Aitchison.

Before l give you my thoughts of Helen Aitchison’s latest book “Finding Arthur Whittle” l want to say this is not the type of storyline l usually gravitate towards. However, l love the way Helen writes so jumped at the chance when l was asked to read and review the ARC @cahilldavispublishing @helen.aitchison_writes

This is an emotional family drama set in the North East of England, told with compassion and skill.
Minutes before his mam passes Harry Macbeth is given a letter written by her…it informs him that Malcom the Dad he’s known and loved all his life is not his birth dad.

His biological dad happens to be a soldier his mam met in a bar and spent the night with over 52 years ago…a man called Arthur Whittle.
Even though Harry was devastated to discover this, with total support from his family he is determined to try and find him.

This is an emotional family drama that feels painfully real with significant heartbreak, but also lots of love and healing too. Helen is a fabulous story teller so If you love to read family or found family drama this one certainly delivers.

The characters in this book easily draw you into their lives and with lots of lovely humour in their interactions you get a real feel of their personalities. The relationship between Harry and Leon a young lad he meets on his journey is particularly a joy.

“Finding Arthur Whittle” is a beautifully written, deeply emotional family drama that grips you from the very first page.
Helen weaves a beautifully written story of family love, secrets and lies, which is also a stark reminder that any lies we tell, even to protect, can change everything.

If you want to lose yourself in a book that will leave you feeling satisfied and uplifted, I suggest you give this one a go.
Helen very best wishes with this book…l thoroughly enjoyed it.
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#findingarthurwhittle #helenaitchisonwrites #foundfamily #newrelease #contemporaryfiction by @lindajbookdragon

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2 months ago

I’m hoping to see Christopher Nolan’s “The Odyssey” this week so l dug out my copy of Emily Wilson’s translation ready to read again. I’ve read Homer’s Odyssey twice and seen other adaptations of the odyssey so l’m ready to experience Nolan’s interpretation.

I hope he does full justice to the Homeric legend and it’s not too Hollywood touched…however, l do like his chosen cast.

From the clips l’ve seen this is certainly a movie with thrilling ambition, boldness, and flair…l am excite to see it and I’ll let you know my thoughts.

Have you seen “The Odyssey” yet? If so what are your thoughts?

#theodyssey #mythology #homersodyssey #emilywilson taken in Whitley Bay by @lindajbookdragon

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3 months ago

Fury Bound by Sable Sorensen.

Fury Bound was definitely one of my most anticipated books for this year, but unfortunately it just didn’t fully hit the spot for me. Ultimately, I still enjoyed parts of it and I’m happy that I read it.
If you really enjoyed “Dire Bound”, I’d still recommend reading Fury Bound but IMO don’t expect a 5 star read.

I loved “Dire Bound” that’s not to say that it didn’t have its own issues; I found it occasionally a bit tropey and the plot too obvious but I enjoyed the rest enough to overlook that. Since it ended on a massive cliffhanger, I was of course very excited about “Fury Bound”.
Were my expectations unfairly high?

The romance fell extremely flat for me. There are so many moments where they could have heightened the tension and really leaned into the yearning between Meryn and Stark…the chemistry was definitely there, but it felt repetitive and very lust-forward at times…not emotionally built enough.

Ugh. I had so much hope for this one. I didn’t hate this book but it could have been so, so much better.
While “Dire Bound” found its stride with worldbuilding, character arcs, and overall story, for me “Fury Bound” falls a bit flat. The characters I wanted to see develop more ended up just being shallow side-characters, meanwhile Meryn continues to pick up new tricks and powers but none of it ever feels earned. I did however, enjoy getting to know Stark more in his POV’s.

This definitely feels like a placeholder book, to connect you from one story to ultimately the desired end goal in the third book.
Final thoughts!!! despite its pacing hiccups and minor character regressions, Fury Bound is action-packed enough to keep you turning pages…I really wanted to like this book more, but it ended up as many do…just an OK middle read in a trilogy.
I will be picking Book 3 in hope that it saves the series.
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#furybound #direbound #sablesorensen #romantasy #fantasyromance by @lindajbookdragon

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4 months ago

Off Campus Series by Elle Kennedy

I’ve never been a reader of Hockey Romances…I love Tolkien, Fantasy, the Classics, Psychological Thrillers with the odd Contemporary romance thrown in now and again…but sport romances…nah!!!

But then l watched “Off Campus” on Amazon Prime…and now I’ve downloaded the Deal audiobook and ordered “The Deal” Hardcover book to add to my bookcase…I’m hooked…l’m even checking out @ellekennedyauthor other Hockey Romance books.

“Off Campus” is an adaptation of Elle Kennedy’s wildly popular romance novel series. Her writing style is really easy to fall into, and each book is perfect for binge reading in-between heavier novels. It’s slick and spicy set in the world of hot twentysomething hockey-playing college students.

Garrett Graham (Belmont Cameli) is captain of the Briar University hockey team and son of hockey legend, Phil Graham. He has his quota of sex but refuses to let anyone become his girlfriend…simply being fair to them by claiming his heart belongs to hockey.

Hannah Wells, a smart, dorky, music major at Briar is played by Ella Bright. Garrett is failing in a class that Hannah is smashing. Will she tutor him? No. Even though she needs the money.
But will she tutor him in return for him pretending to be her boyfriend to make Justin the guy she likes, want her?

Throw in the necessary secondary characters and B-plots…her supportive, sassy best friend Allie who has a long-term boyfriend but draws the eye of Garrett’s womanising roommate, Dean plus Logan and Tucker, Garrett’s other two hockey and house mates.

A woman of my age watching this is entitled to reminisce and swoon now and again, I loved the flawlessly executed fake-to-real romance, enhanced by the sizzling chemistry between the two leads. The romance is elevated by genuine wit and warmth, and given extra weight by the traumatic backstories that are handled with grace.

If you are looking for complex literary masterpieces or deep critical thinking, this is not the show or the book series for you. However, this is high-class, lovable nonsense, to read or binge-watch over a weekend, it completely delivers…and I loved it.
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#offcampus #thedeal #ellekennedy by @lindajbookdragon

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5 months ago

Dear Cassie, @cassiesanchezauthor my beautiful signed “Battle Beyond the Veil” book arrived this morning…it now resides rightfully in my bookcase next to your “Darkness Trilogy” and my Tolkien books. Thank you so much…its always such a pleasure being a beta reader for you and l absolutely loved the Final Cut…it is amazing.

For anyone looking for a thrilling, full of action, second chance romance Urban Fantasy, l can honestly highly recommend “Battle Beyond the Veil” by Cassie Sanchez.

If this interests you please check out the full review of the book on my page and for more information please check out Cassie’s page @cassiesanchezauthor for details of how to purchase. The Kindle copy can be purchase immediately from Amazon.
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#battlebeyondtheveil #cassiesanchez #cassiesanchezauthor #urbanfantasy #greatbook taken in Whitley Bay by @lindajbookdragon

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5 months ago