I have a couple of different work projects on the go so most of my reading this month has been research books and articles. Delving into the depths of other people’s lives never fails to fascinate me, but it’s good to have something a little lighter to read when I need a break from research.
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Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
My first November read was Katherine Rundell’s children’s fantasy novel Impossible Creatures. This book has been on my to be read pile since my daughter and I attended Katherine’s event at the Edinburgh International Book Festival.
Impossible Creatures is the story of Christopher, a young boy who has always had a mysterious connection with animals. They are drawn to him wherever he goes, even on his visit to the Scottish Highlands where he reconnects with his estranged grandfather. When Christopher sets off exploring the local hills, he stumbles across a creature that he can’t believe is real and a girl, Mal, who says she lives in the Archipelago – a hidden cluster of islands where mythical creatures thrive.
But the Archipelago is in trouble and Mal is being pursued by a merciless killer. She desperately needs Christopher’s help.
Impossible Creatures is a gripping adventure with mythical creatures and a magical coat. But it’s also a story of friendship, grief, and bravery, with a subtle nod to our connection with the natural world.
If you’re put off by the fact this is a children’s book, I urge you to read Katherine Rundell’s essay Why You Should Read Children’s Books, Even Though You Are So Old and Wise. It will change your perspective on literature for young readers.
Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel by Rebecca Raisin
I also read Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel by Rebecca Raisin. It’s a new festive romance featuring Anais, who receives a dilapidated hotel in Paris as part of her divorce settlement. Her ex overpaid for the hotel meaning a quick sale is out of the question. Anais has no choice but to spruce it up and attract new guests before putting the hotel on the market. But with limited funds and Noah, the grumpy bar owner next door, interfering at every turn, Anais faces a daunting challenge to meet her Christmas deadline.
Christmas at the Little Paris Hotel is a heartwarming romance with a fabulous setting, quirky characters, and a mystery to be solved when Anais finds a hidden corridor in the hotel.
If you enjoy a festive romance, check out Snowfall and Second Chances, part of my Thistle Bay small-town romance series.
Snowfall and Second Chances
Jeremy Lewis left Thistle Bay two decades ago to join the Marines. But five years ago, his one-night stand with childhood sweetheart Rebecca resulted in their twin boys. Now Jeremy is leaving the Marines and is determined to reclaim his family – including Rebecca.
Rebecca Knight is used to doing everything for everyone. She puts herself second, always. Being a single mother and working in her family’s business full-time has been tough for her. With Jeremy moving back to town, Rebecca had thought it was finally time for their second chance. But with big changes at work, she doesn’t have the time needed to make a relationship work.
While Jeremy focuses on building his new business, Rebecca finds herself torn between her career and love.
Can a relationship that’s been neglected for so long still have a chance? Get your copy of Snowfall and Second Chances here or click below to find out more about the Thistle Bay series.
