I think we're all familiar with the concept of workplace dress codes - whether written & formal, or informal & unwritten, but have you ever come across rules about the wearing of fragrance? And how would you feel if, at interview or upon induction, you were told you were required to sign up to not... Continue Reading →

As someone who sets their annual reading target to 52, January's intake was surprisingly high at 9. What surprised me even more was that over half of them were 4-star reads. That situation was doubtless helped by the inclusion of two books from someone who is rapidly becoming my favourite author - Sebastian Barry. Both... Continue Reading →

The Insecure Writers Support Group is a marvellous group set up by Alex Cavanagh. On the first Wednesday of every month, members post thoughts, fears or words of encouragement for fellow writers. The link above takes you to details about the group and how to join. You'll also find a list of bloggers signed up... Continue Reading →

My thanks to the Orangutan Librarian for the following questions ... What book has been on your shelf the longest? Nothing has been there that long for, having travelled across three continents and downsized dramatically over the past 10 years, not much has survived. The oldest are Centennial and Chesapeake - both by James Michener - great big lumps of... Continue Reading →

Your home is on fire - assuming all loved ones (people and animals) are safe, what five items would you save? I saw this question asked somewhere the other day and thought it was interesting as, in practical terms, it would probably be passport, wallet, phone, car keys and a warm coat, but in terms... Continue Reading →

How do you feel about the colour Pink? Has it become horribly stereotyped as being all about girliness, of being a princess, or ... does it signify breast cancer awareness or support? Or is it just a colour which you either like or don't? When my granddaughter was born, the "no pink" message was spread... Continue Reading →

The Insecure Writers Support Group is a marvellous group set up by Alex Cavanagh. On the first Wednesday of every month, members post thoughts, fears or words of encouragement for fellow writers. The link above takes you to details about the group and how to join. You'll also find a list of bloggers signed up... Continue Reading →

As the next two Wednesdays are Christmas Day & New Year's Day, this is simply to send my best wishes to you all & say that normal service will resume on Wednesday 8th January 2020.  

Pace of life isn't something I've previously given thought to, but since moving, it's been foremost on my mind. At first, what I noticed was the positive aspect - the lower volumes of traffic, the lack of crowds, relaxed and friendly staff in shops, no-one rushing around in a tearing hurry, a relaxed attitude to... Continue Reading →

Last December, Crime Reads discussed holiday films in a feature entitled 10 Thrillers You Forgot Take Place During Christmas. Now, Himself's idea of a Christmas film is more Die Hard than Holiday Inn and, despite my joy in holiday smaltz, Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas is probably mine, so I thought it was time for... Continue Reading →