Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect Austen heroine: intelligent, generous, sensible, incapable of jealousy or any other major sin. That makes her sound like an insufferable goody-goody, but the truth is she's a completely hip character who ,if provoked, is not above skewering her antagonist with a piece of her exceptionally sharp, yet always polite, 18th-century wit. The real point of the book though, the critical question which will keep you fixated throughout, is: will Elizabeth and Mr Darcy hook up? Read this genuine all-time classic and discover the answer while enjoying a story that has charmed generation after generation.

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

a bit disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
I agree with the previous review, I'm a big fan of Julia Quinn and thought the idea of telling the same story from different perspectives a clever technique but felt a bit cheated by this book, whole chunks of the The Lost Duke of Wyndham were repeated almost verbatim and so I felt like this book wasn't offering much that was actually different. I read the Lost Duke first and this straight afterwards so maybe I would not have noticed so much if I'd read them with more time in between.



The other half of 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', 01 Oct 2008
'The Lost Duke of Wyndham' was a disappointing read in some ways, with several scenes unexplained as they were to be the focus of this book. I looked forward to reading 'Mr Cavendish, I Presume' as I was rather interested in what would become of Thomas, the former Duke of Wyndham, and how he would end up with Amelia Willoughby. These questions were answered by this book but, sadly, there wasn't much else new or interesting in it. Many of the scenes are the same as in 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', although from either Thomas's or Amelia's point of view (rather than Grace or Jack's), and the whole book felt rather repetitive. We experienced the same events a second time from a slightly different point of view with a few different insights into what was happening, but there wasn't much else to the book. Someone who hasn't read the previous book would be able to follow the events in this one easily enough as most scenes are explained so it doesn't seem to matter in which order they are read.

Thomas did come across as a rather more likeable character than the rather ineffectual chap of the previous book. Amelia was a good, strong character in this story, caged by her family's expectations of her and worried, at least initially, that she's marrying a man who barely even notices her. As the book moved forward and it appeared Thomas would no longer be the duke there were some interesting moments as he imagined his life without this enormous part of his identity but overall the story felt thin in places. Julia Quinn has a sparky, lively writing style which is good to read if often historically inaccurate. I was pleased with the way in which she portrayed Thomas's overarching sense of honour but the overall feeling from this book was that it contained too much repetition from the previous book and not enough new scenes to make it entirely worthwhile reading. I think the pair of books would have worked better merged into one overall story but it was a reasonable read for a rainy summer's afternoon.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book © Helen Hancox 2008

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

a bit disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
I agree with the previous review, I'm a big fan of Julia Quinn and thought the idea of telling the same story from different perspectives a clever technique but felt a bit cheated by this book, whole chunks of the The Lost Duke of Wyndham were repeated almost verbatim and so I felt like this book wasn't offering much that was actually different. I read the Lost Duke first and this straight afterwards so maybe I would not have noticed so much if I'd read them with more time in between.



The other half of 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', 01 Oct 2008
'The Lost Duke of Wyndham' was a disappointing read in some ways, with several scenes unexplained as they were to be the focus of this book. I looked forward to reading 'Mr Cavendish, I Presume' as I was rather interested in what would become of Thomas, the former Duke of Wyndham, and how he would end up with Amelia Willoughby. These questions were answered by this book but, sadly, there wasn't much else new or interesting in it. Many of the scenes are the same as in 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', although from either Thomas's or Amelia's point of view (rather than Grace or Jack's), and the whole book felt rather repetitive. We experienced the same events a second time from a slightly different point of view with a few different insights into what was happening, but there wasn't much else to the book. Someone who hasn't read the previous book would be able to follow the events in this one easily enough as most scenes are explained so it doesn't seem to matter in which order they are read.

Thomas did come across as a rather more likeable character than the rather ineffectual chap of the previous book. Amelia was a good, strong character in this story, caged by her family's expectations of her and worried, at least initially, that she's marrying a man who barely even notices her. As the book moved forward and it appeared Thomas would no longer be the duke there were some interesting moments as he imagined his life without this enormous part of his identity but overall the story felt thin in places. Julia Quinn has a sparky, lively writing style which is good to read if often historically inaccurate. I was pleased with the way in which she portrayed Thomas's overarching sense of honour but the overall feeling from this book was that it contained too much repetition from the previous book and not enough new scenes to make it entirely worthwhile reading. I think the pair of books would have worked better merged into one overall story but it was a reasonable read for a rainy summer's afternoon.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book © Helen Hancox 2008

Really depressing, 09 Oct 2008
I am a huge Marian Keyes fan but I am finding this book so depressing (am about half-way through) that I haven't been able to pick it up for about 2 weeks.
It is fair enough to deal with "gritty" subjects, but if I want to read a book like that I'll go and buy one. With Marian, you can normally rely on the storyline and topics, and you know what you're getting. With this one, you don't.
I actually like the Lola parts - they are the only funny bits I've found so far - it's the other parts I don't enjoy. It is also very long drawn-out and although I'm half-way through I am still not sure what the "secret" and the point of it is - either it is terrifically obvious and I have already guessed it, or it is something very unexpected and I have to wait till the last chapter, which I just find annoying.
I've found myself skipping entire pages and leafing through to the end to see if it's worth reading on.
It's a shame because it is a big fat book, and if I was enjoying it, I'd be delighted to have so much MK in one go!

One of the worst books ever!, 30 Sep 2008
I have read many books and all of Marian Keyes and is one of the worst books i have ever read! It took me 4 and a half weeks to read and couldn't wait to finish it so I could a better book! It was far to long but u never get to know any of the characters properly, starts off funny and then gets a bit depressing. Very dissapointed!

Enjoyable, 29 Sep 2008
I thought this book was a wonderful read. I generally did not want to put it down.
This was the first Marian Keyes book that i have read and since doing so, I have bought 2 more of her books.
I believe the voice of 'lola' could at times be too much and her stories/observations were long winded, however overall i thouroughly enjoyed this story.

I thought it was just me!, 29 Sep 2008
I've just been reading the other reviews about This Charming Man & feel comforted as I've been battling on with the book out of sheer loyalty to Marian Keyes and was beginning to feel like my attention span or imagination must be deteriorating as I get older! Well at least I know I'm not the only one who is very disappointed by the book - the story & the characters are not even a stratch on her previous books and I'm praying that the next one will be a hell of a lot better!

This Charming Man, 25 Sep 2008
Like many other reviewers I usually read Marian Keye's books within a couple of days they are so gripping.

However, with This Charming Man it took me about 4 weeks to get 3/4 of the way through and then I just kind of gave up. It was such a disappointment.

I really didn't like the way the book was split into 4 stories as it made it far too messy and it didn't give enough time to get to know, let alone become attached, to any of the characters.
Keyes' books are usually heavily reliant on her fabulous charatcer depiction and the empathy you feel for her heroines. Usually you almost feel inside their heads and fall totally for the men involved. But in this case there just wasn't the opportunity to get to know them well enough and what you did hear of them wasn't particularly enchanting, particularly with Lola's awful pidgin english.

I particularly didn't like the story about Marnie. Though it was true to life, the picture painted of her charcater wasn't a very likable one, which contrasts greatly with the one of Rachel in Rachel's Holiday.

I guess we'll just have to wait another 2 years for a better offering...what a shame.

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

a bit disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
I agree with the previous review, I'm a big fan of Julia Quinn and thought the idea of telling the same story from different perspectives a clever technique but felt a bit cheated by this book, whole chunks of the The Lost Duke of Wyndham were repeated almost verbatim and so I felt like this book wasn't offering much that was actually different. I read the Lost Duke first and this straight afterwards so maybe I would not have noticed so much if I'd read them with more time in between.



The other half of 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', 01 Oct 2008
'The Lost Duke of Wyndham' was a disappointing read in some ways, with several scenes unexplained as they were to be the focus of this book. I looked forward to reading 'Mr Cavendish, I Presume' as I was rather interested in what would become of Thomas, the former Duke of Wyndham, and how he would end up with Amelia Willoughby. These questions were answered by this book but, sadly, there wasn't much else new or interesting in it. Many of the scenes are the same as in 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', although from either Thomas's or Amelia's point of view (rather than Grace or Jack's), and the whole book felt rather repetitive. We experienced the same events a second time from a slightly different point of view with a few different insights into what was happening, but there wasn't much else to the book. Someone who hasn't read the previous book would be able to follow the events in this one easily enough as most scenes are explained so it doesn't seem to matter in which order they are read.

Thomas did come across as a rather more likeable character than the rather ineffectual chap of the previous book. Amelia was a good, strong character in this story, caged by her family's expectations of her and worried, at least initially, that she's marrying a man who barely even notices her. As the book moved forward and it appeared Thomas would no longer be the duke there were some interesting moments as he imagined his life without this enormous part of his identity but overall the story felt thin in places. Julia Quinn has a sparky, lively writing style which is good to read if often historically inaccurate. I was pleased with the way in which she portrayed Thomas's overarching sense of honour but the overall feeling from this book was that it contained too much repetition from the previous book and not enough new scenes to make it entirely worthwhile reading. I think the pair of books would have worked better merged into one overall story but it was a reasonable read for a rainy summer's afternoon.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book © Helen Hancox 2008

Really depressing, 09 Oct 2008
I am a huge Marian Keyes fan but I am finding this book so depressing (am about half-way through) that I haven't been able to pick it up for about 2 weeks.
It is fair enough to deal with "gritty" subjects, but if I want to read a book like that I'll go and buy one. With Marian, you can normally rely on the storyline and topics, and you know what you're getting. With this one, you don't.
I actually like the Lola parts - they are the only funny bits I've found so far - it's the other parts I don't enjoy. It is also very long drawn-out and although I'm half-way through I am still not sure what the "secret" and the point of it is - either it is terrifically obvious and I have already guessed it, or it is something very unexpected and I have to wait till the last chapter, which I just find annoying.
I've found myself skipping entire pages and leafing through to the end to see if it's worth reading on.
It's a shame because it is a big fat book, and if I was enjoying it, I'd be delighted to have so much MK in one go!

One of the worst books ever!, 30 Sep 2008
I have read many books and all of Marian Keyes and is one of the worst books i have ever read! It took me 4 and a half weeks to read and couldn't wait to finish it so I could a better book! It was far to long but u never get to know any of the characters properly, starts off funny and then gets a bit depressing. Very dissapointed!

Enjoyable, 29 Sep 2008
I thought this book was a wonderful read. I generally did not want to put it down.
This was the first Marian Keyes book that i have read and since doing so, I have bought 2 more of her books.
I believe the voice of 'lola' could at times be too much and her stories/observations were long winded, however overall i thouroughly enjoyed this story.

I thought it was just me!, 29 Sep 2008
I've just been reading the other reviews about This Charming Man & feel comforted as I've been battling on with the book out of sheer loyalty to Marian Keyes and was beginning to feel like my attention span or imagination must be deteriorating as I get older! Well at least I know I'm not the only one who is very disappointed by the book - the story & the characters are not even a stratch on her previous books and I'm praying that the next one will be a hell of a lot better!

This Charming Man, 25 Sep 2008
Like many other reviewers I usually read Marian Keye's books within a couple of days they are so gripping.

However, with This Charming Man it took me about 4 weeks to get 3/4 of the way through and then I just kind of gave up. It was such a disappointment.

I really didn't like the way the book was split into 4 stories as it made it far too messy and it didn't give enough time to get to know, let alone become attached, to any of the characters.
Keyes' books are usually heavily reliant on her fabulous charatcer depiction and the empathy you feel for her heroines. Usually you almost feel inside their heads and fall totally for the men involved. But in this case there just wasn't the opportunity to get to know them well enough and what you did hear of them wasn't particularly enchanting, particularly with Lola's awful pidgin english.

I particularly didn't like the story about Marnie. Though it was true to life, the picture painted of her charcater wasn't a very likable one, which contrasts greatly with the one of Rachel in Rachel's Holiday.

I guess we'll just have to wait another 2 years for a better offering...what a shame.

Well drawn characters, 06 Oct 2008
I agree with another reviewer that this is a good bedtime book but it's equally good as a travelling companion.
The characters are well drawn and, held together by the 'festive' season as they are, have resonances of most of our lives.
I'm not usually a fan of short stories and probably wouldn't have bought it had I realised but I'm glad I did.


Disillusioned Binchy fan., 16 Sep 2008
I found this a disappointing read. I've been a fan of Maeve Binchy's for years but have recently been finding her work more and more flimsy, ie a small idea padded out to form a whole book. Haven't really enjoyed her books since the lovely Scarlet Feather, years ago! Time to stop buying them I reckon.

not the Meave Binchy i like., 15 Sep 2008
This is a book of short stories. It is a "pick up and put down" book,a book for the bedside, because you will never fall asleep before you finish a story, because some of them are very short. and you never loose where you are. I didn't enjoy it as much as her, for the want of a better word,---"proper books", but never the less still Meave Binchy style.

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

a bit disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
I agree with the previous review, I'm a big fan of Julia Quinn and thought the idea of telling the same story from different perspectives a clever technique but felt a bit cheated by this book, whole chunks of the The Lost Duke of Wyndham were repeated almost verbatim and so I felt like this book wasn't offering much that was actually different. I read the Lost Duke first and this straight afterwards so maybe I would not have noticed so much if I'd read them with more time in between.



The other half of 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', 01 Oct 2008
'The Lost Duke of Wyndham' was a disappointing read in some ways, with several scenes unexplained as they were to be the focus of this book. I looked forward to reading 'Mr Cavendish, I Presume' as I was rather interested in what would become of Thomas, the former Duke of Wyndham, and how he would end up with Amelia Willoughby. These questions were answered by this book but, sadly, there wasn't much else new or interesting in it. Many of the scenes are the same as in 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', although from either Thomas's or Amelia's point of view (rather than Grace or Jack's), and the whole book felt rather repetitive. We experienced the same events a second time from a slightly different point of view with a few different insights into what was happening, but there wasn't much else to the book. Someone who hasn't read the previous book would be able to follow the events in this one easily enough as most scenes are explained so it doesn't seem to matter in which order they are read.

Thomas did come across as a rather more likeable character than the rather ineffectual chap of the previous book. Amelia was a good, strong character in this story, caged by her family's expectations of her and worried, at least initially, that she's marrying a man who barely even notices her. As the book moved forward and it appeared Thomas would no longer be the duke there were some interesting moments as he imagined his life without this enormous part of his identity but overall the story felt thin in places. Julia Quinn has a sparky, lively writing style which is good to read if often historically inaccurate. I was pleased with the way in which she portrayed Thomas's overarching sense of honour but the overall feeling from this book was that it contained too much repetition from the previous book and not enough new scenes to make it entirely worthwhile reading. I think the pair of books would have worked better merged into one overall story but it was a reasonable read for a rainy summer's afternoon.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book © Helen Hancox 2008

Really depressing, 09 Oct 2008
I am a huge Marian Keyes fan but I am finding this book so depressing (am about half-way through) that I haven't been able to pick it up for about 2 weeks.
It is fair enough to deal with "gritty" subjects, but if I want to read a book like that I'll go and buy one. With Marian, you can normally rely on the storyline and topics, and you know what you're getting. With this one, you don't.
I actually like the Lola parts - they are the only funny bits I've found so far - it's the other parts I don't enjoy. It is also very long drawn-out and although I'm half-way through I am still not sure what the "secret" and the point of it is - either it is terrifically obvious and I have already guessed it, or it is something very unexpected and I have to wait till the last chapter, which I just find annoying.
I've found myself skipping entire pages and leafing through to the end to see if it's worth reading on.
It's a shame because it is a big fat book, and if I was enjoying it, I'd be delighted to have so much MK in one go!

One of the worst books ever!, 30 Sep 2008
I have read many books and all of Marian Keyes and is one of the worst books i have ever read! It took me 4 and a half weeks to read and couldn't wait to finish it so I could a better book! It was far to long but u never get to know any of the characters properly, starts off funny and then gets a bit depressing. Very dissapointed!

Enjoyable, 29 Sep 2008
I thought this book was a wonderful read. I generally did not want to put it down.
This was the first Marian Keyes book that i have read and since doing so, I have bought 2 more of her books.
I believe the voice of 'lola' could at times be too much and her stories/observations were long winded, however overall i thouroughly enjoyed this story.

I thought it was just me!, 29 Sep 2008
I've just been reading the other reviews about This Charming Man & feel comforted as I've been battling on with the book out of sheer loyalty to Marian Keyes and was beginning to feel like my attention span or imagination must be deteriorating as I get older! Well at least I know I'm not the only one who is very disappointed by the book - the story & the characters are not even a stratch on her previous books and I'm praying that the next one will be a hell of a lot better!

This Charming Man, 25 Sep 2008
Like many other reviewers I usually read Marian Keye's books within a couple of days they are so gripping.

However, with This Charming Man it took me about 4 weeks to get 3/4 of the way through and then I just kind of gave up. It was such a disappointment.

I really didn't like the way the book was split into 4 stories as it made it far too messy and it didn't give enough time to get to know, let alone become attached, to any of the characters.
Keyes' books are usually heavily reliant on her fabulous charatcer depiction and the empathy you feel for her heroines. Usually you almost feel inside their heads and fall totally for the men involved. But in this case there just wasn't the opportunity to get to know them well enough and what you did hear of them wasn't particularly enchanting, particularly with Lola's awful pidgin english.

I particularly didn't like the story about Marnie. Though it was true to life, the picture painted of her charcater wasn't a very likable one, which contrasts greatly with the one of Rachel in Rachel's Holiday.

I guess we'll just have to wait another 2 years for a better offering...what a shame.

Well drawn characters, 06 Oct 2008
I agree with another reviewer that this is a good bedtime book but it's equally good as a travelling companion.
The characters are well drawn and, held together by the 'festive' season as they are, have resonances of most of our lives.
I'm not usually a fan of short stories and probably wouldn't have bought it had I realised but I'm glad I did.


Disillusioned Binchy fan., 16 Sep 2008
I found this a disappointing read. I've been a fan of Maeve Binchy's for years but have recently been finding her work more and more flimsy, ie a small idea padded out to form a whole book. Haven't really enjoyed her books since the lovely Scarlet Feather, years ago! Time to stop buying them I reckon.

not the Meave Binchy i like., 15 Sep 2008
This is a book of short stories. It is a "pick up and put down" book,a book for the bedside, because you will never fall asleep before you finish a story, because some of them are very short. and you never loose where you are. I didn't enjoy it as much as her, for the want of a better word,---"proper books", but never the less still Meave Binchy style.

LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT!, 09 Sep 2008
A brilliant book! Highly recommended! You'll laugh, you'll cry and you will absolutely identify with the main character, Emma, on her journey in this book. One of my all time favourites, couldn't put it down!

A wonderful feelgood story, 02 Sep 2008
I've read all Sophie's shopaholic books, and I'm happy to report this is just as good. As usual with her books, it has it's share of laugh out loud moments, and my only complaint about it, is that it's too short, I didn't want it to end. This is chick lit romantic comedy at it's best.

what can i say??, 31 Aug 2008
what can i say?? BEST. BOOK. EVER!!
i picked it up. i read it. i loved it!!!
im 15 years old and i read this when i was 14. personally, i am not a huge fan of romantic novels but one day when i was bored and need a book to read for english i picked this one up simply because it looked nice. it is a good book because it is great for the teenage gap: it has a good balance of romance and comedy without being to over the top ans is generally just an enjoyable read. sophie kinsella's style of writing is light and easy to understand so makes this book a great choice for anyone who is looking to be entertained without having to take in too much.

I can't believe the overall rating for this book!, 13 Jun 2008
I have always been a lover of chick lit, Marian Keyes, Jane Green, love 'em all for a bit of light reading. So I've been eyeing the Sophie Kinsella books for a while and finally picked up 'Can You Keep a Secret?'...oh dear. Unfortunately I cannot keep the secret of how much I hated this book! Sadly I am the sort of person who cannot leave a book once I've started it and so I stayed until the bitter end.

I have never written a negative review (I would simply stay silent) so I'm very sorry Ms Kinsella. However, I have had to suffer an entire book where the plotline is so painfully obvious and the heroine was such an utter moron that if I were to meet someone like that I would shake her by the shoulders and tell her to stop being such an idiotic wimp! As the reader, I am generally meant to feel some sort of sympathy or empathy with the main character in these types of book, not so in this case. Emma Corrigan is an imbecile and the type of 'friend' one would tend to avoid at all costs. Nothing the character does is remotely realistic and the only reason I give this book 1 star is because if Emma can end up with a rich successful boyfriend AND a promotion, then there is hope for us all! Although I really think this is stretching the meaning of 'fiction' to it's outer limits, maybe it should be reclassified under 'fantasy'.

Usually I share my books with my friends and family or give them to the charity shop when I've finished with them. This time I simply left it on the bus and walked away. Now I'm off to pick up some Aldous Huxley in attempt to get some of those brain cells back...

Just Brilliant, 08 Jun 2008
This book is fantastic, I read it in a day I just couldn't put it down, it's really touching and moving in parts. I think Sophie Kinsella is a fantasic author, one of my favorites, Im not one for reading but I ordered her whole collection and i'm getting though them pretty quick.....

Warm and real, 12 Oct 2008
It's something comforting about Maeve Binchy's books. The cliché about a book being like a good friend, is so very right in her case. Of course, one is interested in finding out what happens to the characters, but there is no hurry. In the case of this book, it is much more preferable to sit down with a cup of tea and read quietly a couple of hours before going to bed.

"Heart and Soul" is a book to be devoured and there are many actors on the stage in Dublin. First there is Clara Casey, senior cardiac specialist at a new heart clinic at St. Brigid's Hospital, Clara's two daughters Adi and Linda, who in their twenties are having trouble settling down and finally her ex-husband Alan, who is asking Clara for a divorce in order to marry a much younger woman.

Coming to work at the clinic is also Ania, a young girl who has travelled from Poland in order to mend a broken heart. Young Doctor Declan Carroll was originally meant to spend a six-month posting but meats beautiful nurse Fiona. And then there is Father Bryan Flynn, whose life is turned upside down when his reputation is threatened.

Extra spice is added when we also meet old friends from both Scarlet Feather, Evening Class, Nights of Rain and Stars and Whitethorn Woods. Nora who is still always called Signora & Aidan, and Brenda at Quentins, where Declan takes Fiona out to dinner for the first time.

"Heart and Soul" is a book about ordinary people with ordinary lives. Joy and sorrow, struggle and hopes. And as always, the author shows us the importance of the small things in life - which often do not prove so small after all.

Maeve Binchy is a wonderful storyteller, who has once again written a book which grows on the reader and is slowly creeping into our heart and soul.

Enjoy!

A feast for the heart AND the soul, 11 Oct 2008
When I picked this book up, I knew it would contain characters who would become important to me and situations I would think about. I was not disappointed. I found Clara Casey to be a thoroughly engaging central character and the focal point of a clinic was a good choice, with the dramas and lives of the staff and patients providing a great narrative.

However, the real joy was in picking up the threads of other characters from Scarlet Feather, Nights of Rain and Stars and also Whitethorn Woods.

I was hooked until the end and am now almost desperate to book a table at Quentins - Early Bird menu for me though! Thank you Maeve.

Its a classic for a reason, 16 Sep 2008
I really enjoyed this far more then I thought it would. Its lovely to step back into the world of Austen and see what love can be like at its most innocent. Beautifully written with comedy throughout, a must for all romance fans! I only wish I had read this sooner

Who am I to critique such a classic work by Jane Austen?, 30 Jul 2008
Not someone properly suited for such a task, I can tell you that. What I can do, however, is give an honest and heartfelt account of what I thought of Jane Austen's 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE'. I have always wanted to read some of the classics but have never up until now dug up the courage to actually do so. I thought if I was going to start reading a classic novel Jane Austen would probably be a good author to start with and what better choice was there than her stand out 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' ? I was pleased to find out that I was absolutely right. 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' has to be one of the most romantic novels that I have ever read. The romance between Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy literally made me swoon quite often (and I don't swoon!). Romance mixed with a little bit of drama and Austen's most descriptive prose made it impossible for me to put this book down. Now I see why 'PRIDE & PREJUDICE' is on so many people's favorites list because now it is most certainly on mine.

Fantastic - a timeless classic, 26 Jun 2008
The plot and principal characters are well known. I read this possibly six times in school when I was 14. What emerges for me from reading this much later is that neither Elizabeth, nor Darcy are - initially at least - the perfect, but misunderstood human beings of the screen versions. Darcy, it is clear, is an insufferable snob and it is not at all clear that he ever gets past this. Yes, in the end he has no problem in accepting Elizabeth despite her relatively low social station - that is because he has fallen in love with her. But is he really as transformed as Elizabeth believes by the end of the novel? Does it even matter to her, as Elizabeth will now ascend to a higher social station anyway? Elizabeth is also utterly quick to judge and with Wickham for example, is blind to his faults despite the clear evidence of his mercenary motivations as amply pointed out to her by Mrs Gardiner. What one has to remember however is that Elizabeth is only 21 and Darcy probably no more than 26. They can be forgiven their failings (Elizabeth her prejudice, Darcy his pride and haughtiness) to some extent. This is a novel as much about growing up and reaching maturity, as it is about the danger of judging on first impressions.

Another aspect that one does not appreciate at 14 is the social background to the novel. It is a time of the emergence of mass consumerism in England and of rapid technological and economic innovation. England was the cradle of capitalism and here it is being perfected at this time. This is evident throughout the novel and money and all things money related are always part of the main event.

Although Austen was a master of the novel form, this is not a perfect novel. Compare for example the crisp, no nonsense, galloping opening chapters with some of the final chapters that completely belabour the Wickham episode and how they slow down the narrative and plot resolution. These minor criticisms aside, P&P is a stunning achievement by a literary genius and it will never lose its appeal.


Perfect!, 26 May 2008
Austen's best novel and one of the best in English Literature. A completely realistic and loveable cast of characters and one of the great love stories of all time. It should be compulsary to read this book.

Fabulous!, 17 Mar 2008
Although I don't look like a bookwormy type (unless you know me), this is my favorite book. I read it first aged 11 and now aged nearly 13, it continues to guide me. I own a much abused copy of all the jane austen books which I continue to read, even when in class, when I am reading it under the desk in Latin (which is no mean feat! Do you know how thick it is?!?) or when eat chocolate.

My favorite parts are when Lizzie realises that Mr Darcy isn't as bad as she think's he his, and he has actually secretly been helping her.


EVERYONE SHOULD READ THIS!

Airport Exclusive Edition, 01 Oct 2008
I really enjoyed this book it was a real page turner, I could not wait to finish it but now I have I can not wait for her next book to come out. It was so easy read and had you gripped. This was one of her best book in ages.It was full of smut,a must buy for any Jackie Collins Fans. You will not be disappointed with this book guaranteed.

a bit disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
I agree with the previous review, I'm a big fan of Julia Quinn and thought the idea of telling the same story from different perspectives a clever technique but felt a bit cheated by this book, whole chunks of the The Lost Duke of Wyndham were repeated almost verbatim and so I felt like this book wasn't offering much that was actually different. I read the Lost Duke first and this straight afterwards so maybe I would not have noticed so much if I'd read them with more time in between.



The other half of 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', 01 Oct 2008
'The Lost Duke of Wyndham' was a disappointing read in some ways, with several scenes unexplained as they were to be the focus of this book. I looked forward to reading 'Mr Cavendish, I Presume' as I was rather interested in what would become of Thomas, the former Duke of Wyndham, and how he would end up with Amelia Willoughby. These questions were answered by this book but, sadly, there wasn't much else new or interesting in it. Many of the scenes are the same as in 'The Lost Duke of Wyndham', although from either Thomas's or Amelia's point of view (rather than Grace or Jack's), and the whole book felt rather repetitive. We experienced the same events a second time from a slightly different point of view with a few different insights into what was happening, but there wasn't much else to the book. Someone who hasn't read the previous book would be able to follow the events in this one easily enough as most scenes are explained so it doesn't seem to matter in which order they are read.

Thomas did come across as a rather more likeable character than the rather ineffectual chap of the previous book. Amelia was a good, strong character in this story, caged by her family's expectations of her and worried, at least initially, that she's marrying a man who barely even notices her. As the book moved forward and it appeared Thomas would no longer be the duke there were some interesting moments as he imagined his life without this enormous part of his identity but overall the story felt thin in places. Julia Quinn has a sparky, lively writing style which is good to read if often historically inaccurate. I was pleased with the way in which she portrayed Thomas's overarching sense of honour but the overall feeling from this book was that it contained too much repetition from the previous book and not enough new scenes to make it entirely worthwhile reading. I think the pair of books would have worked better merged into one overall story but it was a reasonable read for a rainy summer's afternoon.

Originally published for Curled Up With A Good Book © Helen Hancox 2008

Really depressing, 09 Oct 2008
I am a huge Marian Keyes fan but I am finding this book so depressing (am about half-way through) that I haven't been able to pick it up for about 2 weeks.
It is fair enough to deal with "gritty" subjects, but if I want to read a book like that I'll go and buy one. With Marian, you can normally rely on the storyline and topics, and you know what you're getting. With this one, you don't.
I actually like the Lola parts - they are the only funny bits I've found so far - it's the other parts I don't enjoy. It is also very long drawn-out and although I'm half-way through I am still not sure what the "secret" and the point of it is - either it is terrifically obvious and I have already guessed it, or it is something very unexpected and I have to wait till the last chapter, which I just find annoying.
I've found myself skipping entire pages and leafing through to the end to see if it's worth reading on.
It's a shame because it is a big fat book, and if I was enjoying it, I'd be delighted to have so much MK in one go!

One of the worst books ever!, 30 Sep 2008
I have read many books and all of Marian Keyes and is one of the worst books i have ever read! It took me 4 and a half weeks to read and couldn't wait to finish it so I could a better book! It was far to long but u never get to know any of the characters properly, starts off funny and then gets a bit depressing. Very dissapointed!

Enjoyable, 29 Sep 2008
I thought this book was a wonderful read. I generally did not want to put it down.
This was the first Marian Keyes book that i have read and since doing so, I have bought 2 more of her books.
I believe the voice of 'lola' could at times be too much and her stories/observations were long winded, however overall i thouroughly enjoyed this story.

I thought it was just me!, 29 Sep 2008
I've just been reading the other reviews about This Charming Man & feel comforted as I've been battling on with the book out of sheer loyalty to Marian Keyes and was beginning to feel like my attention span or imagination must be deteriorating as I get older! Well at least I know I'm not the only one who is very disappointed by the book - the story & the characters are not even a stratch on her previous books and I'm praying that the next one will be a hell of a lot better!

This Charming Man, 25 Sep 2008
Like many other reviewers I usually read Marian Keye's books within a couple of days they are so gripping.

However, with This Charming Man it took me about 4 weeks to get 3/4 of the way through and then I just kind of gave up. It was such a disappointment.

I really didn't like the way the book was split into 4 stories as it made it far too messy and it didn't give enough time to get to know, let alone become attached, to any of the characters.
Keyes' books are usually heavily reliant on her fabulous charatcer depiction and the empathy you feel for her heroines. Usually you almost feel inside their heads and fall totally for the men involved. But in this case there just wasn't the opportunity to get to know them well enough and what you did hear of them wasn't particularly enchanting, particularly with Lola's awful pidgin english.

I particularly didn't like the story about Marnie. Though it was true to life, the picture painted of her charcater wasn't a very likable one, which contrasts greatly with the one of Rachel in Rachel's Holiday.

I guess we'll just have to wait another 2 years for a better offering...what a shame.

Well drawn characters, 06 Oct 2008
I agree with another reviewer that this is a good bedtime book but it's equally good as a travelling companion.
The characters are well drawn and, held together by the 'festive' season as they are, have resonances of most of our lives.
I'm not usually a fan of short stories and probably wouldn't have bought it had I realised but I'm glad I did.


Disillusioned Binchy fan., 16 Sep 2008
I found this a disappointing read. I've been a fan of Maeve Binchy's for years but have recently been finding her work more and more flimsy, ie a small idea padded out to form a whole book. Haven't really enjoyed her books since the lovely Scarlet Feather, years ago! Time to stop buying them I reckon.

not the Meave Binchy i like., 15 Sep 2008
This is a book of short stories. It is a "pick up and put down" book,a book for the bedside, because you will never fall asleep before you finish a story, because some of them are very short. and you never loose where you are. I didn't enjoy it as much as her, for the want of a better word,---"proper books", but never the less still Meave Binchy style.

LOVED IT LOVED IT LOVED IT!, 09 Sep 2008
A brilliant book! Highly recommended! You'll laugh, you'll cry and you will absolutely identify with the main character, Emma, on her journey in this book. One of my all time favourites, couldn't put it down!

A wonderful feelgood story, 02 Sep 2008
I've read all Sophie's shopaholic books, and I'm happy to report this is just as good. As usual with her books, it has it's share of laugh out loud moments, and my only complaint about it, is that it's too short, I didn't want it to end. This is chick lit romantic comedy at it's best.

what can i say??, 31 Aug 2008
what can i say?? BEST. BOOK. EVER!!
i picked it up. i read it. i loved it!!!
im 15 years old and i read this when i was 14. personally, i am not a huge fan of romantic novels but one day when i was bored and need a book to read for english i picked this one up simply because it looked nice. it is a good book because it is great for the teenage gap: it has a good balance of romance and comedy without being to over the top ans is generally just an enjoyable read. sophie kinsella's style of writing is light and easy to understand so makes this book a great choice for anyone who is looking to be entertained without having to take in too much.

I can't believe the overall rating for this book!, 13 Jun 2008
I have always been a lover of chick lit, Marian Keyes, Jane Green, love 'em all for a bit of light reading. So I've been eyeing the Sophie Kinsella books for a while and finally picked up 'Can You Keep a Secret?'...oh dear. Unfortunately I cannot keep the secret of how much I hated this book! Sadly I am the sort of person who cannot leave a book once I've started it and so I stayed until the bitter end.

I have never written a negative review (I would simply stay silent) so I'm very sorry Ms Kinsella. However, I have had to suffer an entire book where the plotline is so painfully obvious and the heroine was such an utter moron that if I were to meet someone like that I would shake her by the shoulders and tell her to stop being such an idiotic wimp! As the reader, I am generally meant to feel some sort of sympathy or empathy with the main character in these types of book, not so in this case. Emma Corrigan is an imbecile and the type of 'friend' one would tend to avoid at all costs. Nothing the character does is remotely realistic and the only reason I give this book 1 star is because if Emma can end up with a rich successful boyfriend AND a promotion, then there is hope for us all! Although I really think this is stretching the meaning of 'fiction' to it's outer limits, maybe it should be reclassified under 'fantasy'.

Usually I share my books with my friends and family or give them to the charity shop when I've finished with them. This time I simply left it on the bus and walked away. Now I'm off to pick up some Aldous Huxley in attempt to get some of those brain cells back...

Just Brilliant, 08 Jun 2008
This book is fantastic, I read it in a day I just couldn't put it down, it's really touching and moving in parts. I think Sophie Kinsella is a fantasic author, one of my favorites, Im not one for reading but I ordered her whole collection and i'm getting though them pretty quick.....

Nearly Dead but came back to live her life, 25 Feb 2008
She loved him was abused and used by him, but eventually she had to escape for her life and lived a frugal existence until good came back into her life and she had some very hard decisions to make