The Lady on my Left 

By Catherine Cookson

(Blurb: Alison Read, orphaned when she was two years old, had for some years lived and worked with Paul Aylmer, her appointed guardian. Paul, an experienced antique dealer whose business thrived in the south-coast town of Sealock, had come to rely on Alison, who had quickly learned the trade. But when he had asked her to value the contents of Beacon Ride, a chain of events was set off that led to the exposure of a secret he had for years managed to conceal. As a result, Alison's relationship with Paul came under threat and she knew that only by confronting the situation head-on would her ambitions be realised. Part-mystery, part-love story, and with it's fascinating glimpses of the world of antiques in the 1960s, The Lady on my Left displays yet another facet of Catherine Cookson's remarkable talent.)

Oh, where to begin… this novel was completely shocking, in the best way. I picked it up, sure I wasn't going to enjoy it, then before I even finished the first page, I was immediately hooked and in love with Alison and each of the characters (bar a couple, you'll understand once you've read it). Our leading lady is feisty, innocent and completely unaware of her own feelings for her guardian Paul. 

This novel is so amazing, truly, I read it in only 3 hours, I just couldn't put it down. From the very first page, you're sucked into the world of Sealock and the blissful world of Paul and Alison, one that's going to be temporarily shattered. Our love story wouldn't be complete without the villain of the tale, one that's even scarier than most, as she plays the role of a 'white devil' (someone who is truly evil and underhanded, but lacks the appearance of it). She weasels her way into the contented lives of two people and rocks their foundations, yet in the end, the truth is revealed and their hearts are uncovered. 
I've read this book a number of times and can safely say that it has become my favourite novel, my only problem is the length…seriously too short, but what can you do, huh? 10/10 easily! READ THIS AND LOVE IT!

"If I'm honest I have to tell you I still read fairy tales and I like them best of all." ~Audrey Hepburn

The Castles of Athlin and Dunbayne

By Ann Radcliffe


(Blurb: Ann Radcliffe's first novel is set in the Middle Ages against the melancholy beauty of mountains and rugged coasts of the Scottish Highlands, tells the story of the warring clan chieftains of Athlin and Dunbayne. One of the earliest Gothic tales (1789), it recounts low-born Alleyn's quest for love and honour, and alternates scenes of passionate feeling with breakneck pursuits. The castle itself, in all its romantic sublimity, becomes the true focal point of the novel. Long out of print, this edition makes a little-known treasure available to modern readers.)

This novel by Ann Radcliffe sets the scene with beautiful and mysterious landscapes, dangerous yet serene forests and a perfect family whose peace and tranquility is shattered by the evil actions of a neighbouring tyrant. Though faced with unimaginable challenges and the pains of true love, each character shines with a virtue and steadfastness that reproaches our own corrupt 21st century. Though, short, this novel doesn't in any way lack the excitement and adventure of any other Gothic novel. It is full of danger, love and shocking surprises that keep us on the edge of our seats; including a perfect ending which adds to the novels overall charm. I, personally, love a solid, happy ending, and I certainly wasn't disappointed. Our heroes and heroines are finally repaid for all the heartache, abuse and torment they endured throughout their stories. This story is full of sword-fighting, daring escapes, a handsome set of heroes and beautiful heroines, it's a tale of loyalty and love, complete with our very own evil villain, all the while taking us on the adventure of a lifetime. Overall, I give this novel a 8/10. My only complaint is that it's too short! 

"Read a book and you are giving yourself an inner life. Reading is a rendezvous with your soul."

~Jeanette Winterson

"I'm not a bookworm, I'm an escape artist."
~ Unknown