Top reads - 2011

This year I have read in excess of 60 books.  That is a record for me.
Blogging has enriched my reading.


Compiling a list of Top Reads for 2011 was difficult.  I decided to choose my favourites from my 5 star reads.  I have added a quote from my reviews for each of these. Full reviews can be found in on the review page.


There will be a mention for my 4/5 star reads that did not make the top list at the end of the post.

 Star Gazing by Linda Gillard


A very emotional and thought provoking story sharing happiness, sadness,  fear, romance and humour that really tugged at the heart strings.   It visits the emotional issues of loss and loneliness that we face in life with tenderness and understanding that left me feeling comforted.

Also from Linda Gillard, Emotional Geology 


This is the second novel I have read by Linda  Gillard and, although very different to Star Gazing, the author's amazing story telling woven through the Scottish landscape delivered a page turner I could not put down. 

From Notting Hill with Love....Actually - Ali McNamara


This story has all the elements of a great romantic comedy just like the films Notting Hill, Bridget Jones, Pretty Woman, Sleepless in Seattle and more. It is all there and you won't be disappointed.

Also by Ali McNamara , Breakfast at Darcy's

With some surprises and a shocking twist, I needed the tissues by the end of the novel which was all too soon. 

 India Black by Carol K Carr


This historical mystery, narrated by India, has plenty of action and drama. Wonderful scene setting of Victorian London at night.    She will have you laughing out loud and entertained with her quick wit.

Also from Carol K Carr, India Black and The Widow of Windsor

I have to admit I preferred this second adventure.  I got to find out a little more about India.  There is still more to her than she is letting on. 

The Empty Nesters by Nina Bell

Secrets were being kept, trust was being tested, and many things were not being said between friends and husbands. It is not always what you do say but what you don't say that matters in a friendship or relationship.

The Darling Strumpet by Gillian Bagwell

The author captures the closeness of Nell and King Charles II and their love story, which resulted in the birth of 2 sons, and Nell's lifetime devotion to Charles, with such passion.

The Summer Season by Julia Williams

What a lovely surprise this novel was.  From the blurb and cover it looked like a chick-lit/romance novel.  Once I started reading it, I realised that it combines two of my favourite genres chick-lit and historical fiction.  Edward and Lily's story in the 1800's is an important part of the modern day story.

Love and Freedom by Sue Moorcroft

The chemistry between Martyn and Honor is white hot! 

I loved the way the author revealed secrets about the characters at a teasing pace.  

The Tapestry of Love - Rosy Thornton

This is a novel not to be hurried.  There is so much detail to be absorbed about the landscape of the mountains, the forces of the weather, the beauty of the nature, the tastes and traditions of France.  These are all here and captured beautifully.

Letters from Home by Kristina McMorris

This novel is full of romance, passion and is emotionally charged.  I had trouble reading the last chapters through the tears.

and the rest of the best from 2011 (5 star reads)

At Sea - Laurie Graham

Highland Storms - Christina Courtenay

The Magic of Christmas - Trisha Ashley

Wrapped Up in You - Carole Matthews

The Lady's Slipper - Deborah Swift

Friday Night with the Girls - Shari Low

Mini Skirts and Laughter Lines - Carol Wyer

The Tudor Secret - CW Gortner

Please don't stop the music - Jane Lovering

The Surprise Party - Sue Welfare

DizzyC