Book Review of Black Spartacus by Sudhir Hazareesingh: Epic & Dramatic Biography

Toussaint Louverture is a name that should echo through the annals of history. Born into slavery, he led a revolutionary army to liberate enslaved men, women, and children across Saint-Domingue (modern-day Haiti). ot only that, but he became governor of Saint-Domingue, negotiating fiercely with France, Britain, and the USA. Toussaint sought peace and prosperity for his nation, determined to secure long-term freedom for Black and mixed-race citizens. In Black Spartacus, Sudhir Hazareesingh vividly brings to life this powerful, dedicated, yet controversial leader.

Book Review of Ariadne by Jennifer Saint: Luscious, Visceral Mythology Retelling

Everyone knows the heroic story of Theseus in the labyrinth, and how Ariadne helped him to defeat the terrifying Minotaur. Yet with this act of bravery, a betrayal of her tyrannous royal father, Ariadne's story is only beginning. The epic tales of ancient poets rarely pause to consider her sacrifice, or what it meant to leave behind her Cretan home and family. Lost in a new kind of labyrinth, Ariadne must quickly learn what it means to be a woman, and a mortal, in a world ruled over by men and gods.

Empowering Non-Fiction Reads for International Women’s Day

Tuesday 8th March is International Women's Day! It's a perfect time to celebrate the incredible strength and achievements of women around the world, as well as acknowledging the obstacles we face. With that in mind, I've put together a list of my favourite feminist non-fiction reads.

Rebranding Your Book Blog: A Step-by-Step Guide (+ Free Checklist Download!)

You've probably seen the advice in book blogging guides for beginners - choose your blog name wisely, because changing it in the future will be really difficult. But what happens if, years down the line, your blog has outgrown its name? By following this step-by-step guide, refreshing your blog's identity doesn't have to be a headache...

Book Review of Girl A by Abigail Dean: Complex & Sensitive Thriller

Lex has spent years trying to forge an identity for herself beyond that of Girl A - the one who escaped from her parent's horrific abuse and raised the alarm to save her siblings. Now an adult, with a successful legal career in New York, she is dragged back to her childhood trauma when her mother dies in prison and names Lex as executor of her will. As Lex reconnects with her siblings, many of whom she hasn't seen for years, she must confront the insidious grip they have on each other's lives, not to mention the dark coping strategies that can hold back the past no longer.

10 Dark & Twisted Romances to Make You Glad You’re Single

Ahh, Valentine's Day - love is in the air. Or, if you're single, maybe you're already simmering with cynicism and disdain. In that case, the most twisted love stories in literature are on hand to help you feel smugly unattached.

Book Review of The Comfort Book by Matt Haig: A Hug in Word Form!

When author Matt Haig was in the darkest days of his depression, he noted down any and all of the quotes, advice, observations, inspiration, or anecdotes that brought him comfort and hope. The Comfort Book grew from this principle of hope and Haig's desire to share it with readers. Designed to be a cover-to-cover companion on the worst days, or simply to dip into when you're feeling a little lost, this unique read offers a gentle dose of affirmation and self-care within every page.

10 Stunning Book to Screen Adaptations to Watch Right Now

Adapting a beloved novel into a film or TV series is not a task to be envied. On the one hand, the book has to be condensed into a formula that will capture audiences with ever-shortening attention spans. On the other, loyal fans stand ready to heap their disdain on perceived slights to the original story. To honour those who successfully navigated the fraught terrain between page and screen, I've put together a list of the top 10 best book adaptations to film and television...

Book Review of Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell: Devastating & Emotive Family History

In a modest Stratford house, in the late sixteenth century, a boy is searching for help. His twin sister, Judith, has fallen ill, and he has no idea what to do. His mother will come, carrying kind words, herbal remedies, and fear in her heart. The plague should not be here - the playhouses in London may close, but here in Stratford, far away, they are supposed to be safe. Heedlessly, the sickness has arrived from another world, crept into their home, and waits with insatiable power to shatter a family beyond recognition.

Best of British Bookshops: Lyme Regis, Devon

Whenever I travel around my home country of the UK, I'm always keeping my eyes open for the best independent bookshops to explore. However much I love regularly browsing my local favourites, there is just something special about entering a never-before-visited bookstore and discovering what it has to offer.