Never Alone by Elizabeth Haynes (book review)

Hey readers,

Today I am going to do a book review of Never Alone by Elizabeth Haynes. It is an adult thriller fiction book.

The main plot is about a woman called Sarah who was married to Jim but he died in a car crash.

Sarah is struggling with debt in her home up in the Yorkshire Dales. She had a visit from a university friend of Sarah and Jim’s called Aiden. 

He needs a place to stay and Sarah offers him a room her home. He insists on paying rent which is an incentive as she really needs the money and the fact that she is struggling with loneliness.

Sarah and Aiden get friendly and after getting close after a night out at the local pub and the end of the night having sex together.

Over time feelings between Sarah and Aiden grow for each other.

There is one problem with the situation between Sarah and Aiden is that everyone other than Sarah knows that Aiden is a masseur and provides organisms for women as a job.

They have fallen out and it progresses that it is purely a job for him. He has been honest with every question Sarah says. However, over time Sarah accepts this and trusts him.

There is another friend called Sophie who is having relationship problems with her husband and gets to know a friend of Sarah's called Will.

Sophie and Will have a fling but Sophie wants to continue it further. However, this point will I'd obsessed.

He gets threatening towards Sarah because she had a one night stand a whole back causing him to blackmail Sarah.

Sarah has two older children called Louis and Kitty. Kitty is at university and comes to stay over the holidays at Sarah's.

Louis has fallen out with his mum due to his dad's death, blaming Sarah for not driving when the night his dad died.

Sophie at this point has told George about will and his obsessive behaviour. He tells her to vanish for a while to try and make it cool down. However, this only leads the will to lead on to darker plans.

I won't spoil the ending but with the weather turning for the worst with heavy snow and we find out the lengths people will go for the one they get attached too.

I loved Elizabeth Haynes previous work and so naturally was delighted to see another title that I had not read yet. I found the book a real page-turner and engaging. I like the fact that it wasn’t dragged out but there was enough balance for the beginning, middle and end section. Definitely worth a read if you enjoy a good thriller that keeps you guessing.

I give it 5 stars out of five.

Cheers for reading X

Printsfield Personlised sock review *AD*

Hey readers,

I just love quicky items that are just so fun and the internet is an amazing place to find different shops that can cater to your needs. 

I was lucky enough to be asked to review some socks by Printsfield, of course, I said yes because of one socks and two there quicky what's not to love.

 Below is my design with a picture of my beloved cat who sadly passed away so it is a great memory to have to wear close to me when I am feeling low. 

 Now let me tell you some information about Printsfield because you may not have heard about them and want to know what the deal is. 

Well, Printsfield is an excellent online shop that provides may different personalised goodies ranging from socks, pants and laptop sleeves. You can add a personalised touch with a photo of your choice to add on the product. 

It easy to complete an order as all you need to do is when completing your order download your photo onto the form and the rest is dealt with. 

I know Coronavirus is impacting delivery so bear that in mind. Still pretty pleased with the delivery service which took roughly three weeks considering it was delivered from another country (Poland). 

The detail on the socks is ace and really good visually with the picture added onto the socks. I chose the galaxy print to go with my picture on my socks which I like a lot. Of course, there are different patterns you can incorporate with your product. The material is really good quality and I can't fault it to be honest. 

The price of the socks is £16.95 and they are currently on sale so go grab a hot deal. There is also a 20% code on all items if you use the code thisiswhereitisat20. 

One last thing to mention with the personalised socks or any other of the personalised items as there is many to choose from they would make a perfect gift especially with Father's day around the corner. 

The unique and fun factor make a perfect combination of giving someone you know something different for a special occasion. 

Cheers for reading X

This is an ad  Printsfield in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Paperless Post Review **AD**

Hey readers,

As we fastly approaching Christmas you may be thinking of sending Christmas cards to loved ones. Well, there is a fabulous site called Paperless Post who has an amazing collection of holiday cards. 

With Paperless Post products the focus on using fewer trees to help the environment to make it more green which makes it much more attractive. 

Not only do you send a message to a loved one but you are also doing something positive for the environment you live in. 

If you are struggling with time or what to send someone an e-card doesn't worry as Paperless Post have it covered too as they have a fabulous selection of designs. 

Here are some examples of ecards you can feast your eyes on. 

In recent years personalised cards have come very popularly to send to people. You can upload any picture you want and write any message you desire. You can also change the colour and design to meet your needs for the perfect ecard.

There are traditional designs if you like the classic look. 

Or you might want something funky and bold so the choices are up to you. 

With Paperless Post to purchase e-cards, you will need coins and how to get these coins is to create an account with Paperless Post.

 Another added bonus for new customers gets the first 25 coins free. 

To determine the total cost, take your design’s number of "Coins per recipient" and multiply it by the number of guests you plan to invite. For example, if a design requires 5 Coins per recipient and you are inviting 40 guests, you will need 200 Coins to send your invitation. Our 200 Coin package is $30.

Of course, holiday cards aren't the only item available on Paperless Post. There are many types of cards from birthdays to weddings. Plus there are more then traditional cards because if you're looking for flyers, invitations and even personalised stationary Paperless Post can meet your demands. 

Cheers for reading X

This is an ad for Paperless Post. I was gifted coins to use on the site for Paperless Post in exchange for a blog post. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

The Snowman Live 2019 at Coventry Cathedral 2019 **AD**

Hey readers,

On Saturday (07/12/2019) I and my family went to see The Snowman with a live orchestra at Coventry Cathedral. 

Which of course is shown in the beautiful new Coventry Cathedral. As a parent is important to point out that there are toilets in the cathedral. 

 Last year was a sell-out for The Snowman film and live orchestra that they have returned this year for more magical performances to get you in a festive mood. 

Carrot Productions who are the creators of The Snowman live have done over 200 live shows across the country in some of the finest cathedrals and venues. The orchestra comprises musicians drawn from the UK’s top orchestras.

The show lasts for an hour and I originally thought that seemed a bit short but actually it was a good length for young children. 

There was plenty of seats for everyone and it is disabled friendly.

Also, the screen is big so everyone in the audience can see the film plus the added extras such as Father Christmas message. 

At the front of the cathedral was the live orchestra so the children get to see the musicians play an array of instruments which is an experience in its self to hear live music. 

I and my son are autistic so were conscious that it might be noisy with a live orchestra so we came prepared with ear defenders.

 However, though the music is loud it is not in the style of music which was soft. I found the music relaxing to listen to. My son who normally struggles with noise sat through the whole of the performance with no problems. 

Santa made an appearance on the big screen. 

 A popular feature was seeing the snowman walk up and down the isles and it was enough to get all the children excited. The atmosphere was relaxed which was a rather lovely and enjoyable experience. 

There was a short piece on the display screen explaining what the different instruments were being played in the orchestra.

 A really good informative piece as they explained the instrument and then played a little of that instrument to make it identifiable. 

Alongside the snowman segments, there was a short story about a donkey and his experience of becoming a dancer with the orchestra playing music. 

Of course, closer to the end was the classic film The Snowman shown on the big screen. Also, was the live orchestra and a singer who sang the classic hit from the film, Walking in the Air gave a lovely festive feel to it.

 It really did get you in the mood for Christmas and overall most children in the cathedral were quietly watching the film so it went down well.

It was fab to do something a bit different for Christmas with my boys that was a calming activity. I definitely recommend it for all that enjoy The Snowman and live orchestra music.

There are still more live performances for The Snowman film with a live orchestra and if you are interested in seeing this performance you can find more information here. The cost of the tickets starts from £11 upwards depending on where you are seated. 

However, children aged 18 months and under will be admitted for free if seated on a parent's knee, with the hope that you will be considerate to other audience members and take your child out of the performance temporarily if they are crying or disturbing others.

Cheers for reading X 

This is an AD for The Snowman live performance. I have been kindly gifted the tickets in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Bamboo SockShop Socks Review And Giveaway. **AD**

Hey readers, 

Nothing beats the luxury of soft socks to keep your feet warm and protected. Have you heard about bamboo socks well if you not then Sockshop have a bamboo range of socks that have become really popular. 

The sock shop offers a range of sizes for kids, men, women and unisex so there really is something for everyone.  

 If you have heard of SockShop they are one of the greatest success stories in British retail. that started with a 'silly' idea about selling socks to now becoming a world-leading brand with the largest sock collection on the market. 

There are over 70 big-name brands, including Pringle, Elle, Tommy Hilfiger, and Hugo Boss, on our online store and SochShop sell to over 240 countries across the globe. 

There is a wide range of colour and design to chose from. I have kindly gifted the socks pictured below and can say they feel so good. I do love bright and bold patterns like the rainbow stripes and it is a great way to add fun to your outfit. 

There are many benefits of bamboo socks especially as I have autism and sensory issues so having material that is soft on my feet really helps keep me calm when I am out in a stressful environment.  

The socks themselves are super soft and skin-friendly that has natural antibacterial properties that prevent odor. Which is brilliant as I have sensory issues with regards to the sensation of sweating. 

My feet sweat because I pace and walk due to stimming and anxiety. Having socks to help reduce the odor can make me feel loads better when I am out and about and feel less anxious.

 It is the small things that can make a big difference and if it works then why not. With the material being bamboo moisture is much better than cotton, keeping skin cool, dry and healthy. 

As we are fast approaching the return of children going back to school, then Sockshop have you covered. The children's socks have hand linked toes for a super soft feel which is perfect if they are at school all day. 

Giveaway. 

How would you like to get your hands on two pairs of ladies bamboo Sockshops? Enter the giveaway below and you could be in with a chance to win some,  good luck! 

Cheers for reading X 

This is an AD for SockShop. I was given the stripy pair of socks in exchange for a review. The two ladies socks were given to host a giveaway. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Book recommendations August 2019 **AD**

Hey readers,

I have been kindly gifted some books to review from Carlton. 

They have an extensive range of fiction and non-fiction books to keep any child entertained. I have some cracking ones that may be of interest to you.  

1. Youtube World Records.

What child doesn't like Youtube and combined with amazing world records this book is a hit. 

My eldest loves facts and non-fiction book so this went down well. Especially as the records are amazing covering human feats right through to nature and machinery this book has it covered to blow your mind.  

What I like about this book is on each page there is a QR code which you can scan on your phone and it will come up with the related to the video of that record, which is great to add to modern books. 

There is no age recommendation as there is something for all and family-friendly content. 

The book cost £16.99 and will be released on 8th August 2019. 

2. We Love Sonic. 

I used to love Sonic when I was a child so this book brings some happy memories whilst reading it with the kiddos.
  

If you want to know everything there is to Sonic the Hedgehog then this book is for you. 

The book covers each character of the game whether a friend or foe you will get to know who they are. 

Plus not only does the book discuss all things gaming but also includes discussion about Sonic the Hedgehog cartoon and the upcoming movie soon to be released at the cinema. 

Also, the book covers Sonic's tricks and help you learn more about how to improve playing Sonic. 

This book is recommended for 7+.

The book cost £7.99 and will be released on the 8 August 2019. 

3. How To Be A Pro Gamer. 

Gaming is very popular with children and if you're looking for a book to help as a guide to be a pro-gamer then this is the one. 

This book is a step-to-step guide on everything you need to know when it comes to gaming. It explains what you need to play, how to play it and even how to get signed up to a pro team to start your own streaming channel. 

The age recommendation for this book is 11+. 

The book cost £7.99 and will be released on the 8 August 2019. 

4. Roald Dahl's Beastly Brutes & Heroic Human Beans. 

This is both my boy's favourite book as they are fans of Roald Dhal. It is a beautiful book full of the classic illustrations from Quentin Blake. 

The book is all about the famous characters from Roald Dhal's stories, there are the likes of Charlie and Grandpa Joe from Charlie and The Chocolate Factory, Matilda and the BFG to name a few.  

The pages contain die-cut pages let the work come alive and it is simple to press out the parts of the page to reveal the characters. It is a fun way to get kids imagination going and bring the characters alive. 

There is also an envelope at the back of the book to keep your cut out characters safe and to continue to use them at a later date. 

The age recommendation for this book is 6+. 

The price of the book is £14.99 and the release day of the book is 8 august 2019. 

5. You Can Code. 

Coding is ever growing with the times of the technology world that we live in and they even learn it at reception age at school. 

A lot of children really enjoy learning about coding so this next book is brilliant information. The pictures are clear on how to go about coding whether it is making your own game or app then this book ticks all the boxes. 

It is clearly written and it is suitable for complete beginners. It is easy to learn with the fun step-to-step guides this will go down a treat. 

The age recommendation is for 9+. 

The book cost £8.99 and the book will be released on the 8 August 2019. 

Cheers for reading X 

This is an AD for Carlton. I was kindly gifted the books discussed above in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Cafe Rouge Groupon review.

Hey readers,

The other day I treated my husband to a meal out to Cafe Rouge in Coventry. If you haven't heard of Cafe Rouge it is a chain of French bistro and they have 70 restaurants in the UK. 

 

I also need to mention that I love a good old bargain so took the chance and brought a 3-course meal for two from Groupon for £23.00 which saved me 60% of my meal, yes, please! 

**Just to be clear this is not an AD, I just love a bargain and thought people might find this helpful.**

The menu includes:

Starters: French onion soup | garlic mushrooms | pea and mint tortelloni | breaded whitebait | breaded camembert.

Mains: poulet Breton | Moules marinière | steak and frites | duck confit | Leffe beer battered fish | summer salad with chicken | Croque Monsieur | pea and asparagus risotto | boeuf bourguignon | omelette | chargrilled chicken burger | black Angus burger.

Desserts: beignets | chocolate tarte | crème brûlée | tarte au citron | ice cream.

Also, note that you have a link after purchasing the coupon from Groupon that directs you to the Cafe Rouge website. It is important for you to book the table with a time that suits you.

Review of the restaurant. 

We arrived at Cafe Rouge at 12.30 on a Monday so luckily fairly quiet. We were quickly greeted by a member of staff who told us to chose any table we wanted, we went for the table near the window as we are nosey, like people watching hehe. 

We were asked for drinks - now here are the catch drinks aren't included. However, we ordered anyway as I was parched. Hubby ordered a flat white coffee and me a standard diet coke.

Hubby thought the coffee was really good quality and had lovely art decoration on top. 

Next, we ordered food and started with our start. I ordered garlic mushrooms on sour toast whilst my husband ordered breaded whitebait (which game with mayonnaise to dunk the fish in). 

 

We didn't have to wait for ages (though I don't mind as we didn't have kids so we could actually have an adult conversation).

The food tasted fresh and really good flavours.

The waitress cleared our plates and was super friendly and helpful. She then took got our next meal the main. 

I had a black Angus burger with fries whilst hubby had muscles and fries. Oh, my word people, myself and hubby assumed he would get a small dish of muscles however it was a massive dish of muscles (as you can tell from the photo below). 

 

Again, the food was fresh, though I didn't like the smokey flavour fo the burger, that is just my taste. One downfall with the fries is they did taste a bit undercooked for my liking as I like the centre of a chip soft fluffy. But can't really fault it because of the meal.

Soon the waitress took the plates away which we didn't have to ages like some places. We then asked for the dessert menu and I chose the chocolate tarte whilst husband picked the crème brûlée.

My chocolate tarte was beautiful, dark not too sweet and the cherry morello coulis really complimented the chocolate flavour. 

Husband really liked his crème brûlée though cold (but this might the norm in France) but he really enjoyed the taste and texture. He was a bit sad that it didn't crack when breaking the top.

The waitress got our receipt and we paid the extras for our meal. 

Overall, cant thought it and a fab deal via Groupon. Staff were friendly, polite and did a really good job of service. 

The place its self was clean, the staff kept on top of the tables so there weren't leftover plates from previous customers. The ambience was relaxed, the music was chilled and overall an excellent experience. 

Would I recommend getting a Groupon voucher? yes, I would but the only thing I would highlight is to make sure you clear in what you're getting and be mindful that drinks aren't included in the menu.

Cheers for reading X 

Birds Eye mini rainbow waffles.

Hey readers,

What parent doesn't like an easy life especially when it is manic and time is precious. Well, something that you could try to bring fun to a child's meal is bird's Eye mini rainbow waffles. 

The mini waffles come in orange, red, green and they are packed for of veggies so you can ease off the old parent guilt. 

They also come in different flavours so keeps it more exciting with not just having to stick with the old potato flavour. 

The new flavours are Classic potato

Superb sweet potato, Great garden pea, Beautiful beetroot. 

Good news is for us parents because they are described as potatoes kids are unaware that there are veggies inside which in a typical fashion more likely to eat them, meaning everyone is a winner in getting what they want. 

Also, a fun fact for you people out there did you know that Birds Eye has not changed their recipe of the potato waffle with the crispy outside for 38 years,  times are definitely changing around here and in this case for the better. 

The positives about Birds Eye rainbow waffles is that they are low in saturated fat. Reducing the consumption of saturated fat contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.

The waffles are made with real mash and vegetables, No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives, Gluten free, Suitable for vegans Enjoy Rainbow Mini Waffles as part of a varied and balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Children's nutritional needs differ to those of adults consequently smaller portion sizes may be appropriate. 

You can pick up Birds eye mini rainbow waffles from the 8th April in Iceland for £2 or if you shop at Ocado they will be selling them for £2.50. 

Have you tried these Bird's Eye mini rainbow waffles? What is your verdict? love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below. 

Cheers for reading X 

Inflata Nation Theme Park Birmingham Review

Hey readers,

We were lucky enough to test out Inflata Nation in Birmingham, of course, I said yes because I know that my boys would love it.

So, what is Inflata Nation Theme Park?

Inflata nation theme park is a family day out attraction and is indoors. It comprises of inflatable activities in a huge indoor arena - therefore doesn't matter what the whether anyone can bounce and have fun. At the location, there are many activities for any age or size to enjoy.

Attractions.

Inflata Wreck - Not for the faint-hearted, our multi-person giant inflatable wrecking ball game.

Inflata Grab - Stretch that bungee cord to see how many balls you can collect. A real-life multi-person human version of Hungry Hippos.

Inflata Duo - A giant dual lane drop slide, that you can enjoy with friends.

Inflata Tots - Only for our under 4’s, a dedicated arena with lots of fun features, including slide & ball pool.

Inflata Drop - Try this jaw-dropping inflatable slide and land in a giant ball pool.

Inflata Wall - Take on the wall and you'll be scaling our giant inflatable climbing wall, on your own or with friends.

Inflata Race - Who will be the first to complete the two-lane assault course?

Inflata Bubbles - A large extra bouncy ‘bubble’ area, when all you want to do is a bounce.

Inflata Bash - Air filled inflatable pillars that you can bash around.

Inflata Duel -  A wibbly wobbly gladiator duel platform. Will you win the dual or take a tumble onto the giant airbag below?

However, if you want to sit back and just watch your children play then there is the cafe offering homemade food and drinks. There is also stairs and more seating and it overlooks over the whole arena.  Let's not forgot to mention there is free WIFI, whoop!

The inflata nation theme park is currently open at Birmingham, Manchester, Cheshire, Beverley and Glasgow.

Getting tickets to Inflata nation is easy to navigate on the website and also get confirmation booking - where you can print off your receipts. Also, bear in mind that you have to sign a weaver - now you can print the form off and sign it (we did this to save time) or you can fill in the paperwork at the premises.

Once you have handed over the tickets to the front desk on the right-hand side when you get into the doors. You will have a wristband to say you have paid and each one of you gets one.

Then you have to go down a hall on the right where you watch the video on the things you can and not do such as no flips between the balls.

The very short safety video is permanently running so even if you are, let's say seven minutes late then you only lose seven minutes play, unlike other similar venues that only play their safety videos every half an hour.

Once you have done that there is a shoe rack where you can store your shoes or alternatively there are lockers which require a pound. There is also electronic ones that you can pay by your bank. However, I used the pound coin ones so not entirely sure how the electronic lockers work.

It is important to make sure that children and adults were long sleeved tops, trousers and socks when entering the arena.

The sessions last for an hour however you can add time if you want to.

Cost.

Under 4's - £5.95 (1hr) / +1hr - £3.

Age 4-15 - £9.95 (1hr) - +1hr - £7.

Adult - £9.95 (1hr) - +1hr - £7.

There are also exercise classes, disability sessions and birthday parties - check out the website to find out more information.

Inflata Nation is open 364 days a year (except for Christmas Day).

Address.

The address is;

Unit E,

Stechford Retail Park,

Flaxley Pkwy,

Birmingham,

B33 9AN.

Opening times.

Monday - Thursday: 12 pm – 8 pm

Friday: 12 pm -9 pm

Saturday: 9 am – 9 pm

Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm

During school holiday periods, we are open from 10 am Monday – Sunday!

It can get very busy so probably best to book tickets online beforehand so you won't get disappointed.

Overall.

It was a really enjoyable experience for the whole family to enjoy together on a day out. I thought one hour was adequate time to enjoy as both my boys started to get tired at the end and very sweaty.

The staff were really friendly and helpful. the place felt safe and secure. The tables and toilet area were clean.

The rooms were bright and the decor I thought was fun and playful.

Overall a great experience  - 10/10 :)

Here is a video below so you can get a feel of the place.

Cheers for reading. X

This is an advertorial feature - I was gifted tickets for me and my family to go to Inflata Nation in Birmingham in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Christmas Gift Guide Part 2 2018 *AD*

Hey readers,

I am sure we all know that Christmas is less than 5 weeks away, eek. So here are some items that I liked that would make great Christmas presents this year.

First I have this beautiful solar system bracelet. It has all the solar systems on the bracelet and thinks it is amazing. It is hand made from Leviko Designs and you can buy the item on her Etsy store.

 This is a lovely gift if you’re looking to give something a bit unusual for someone who is into science.

 I like the fact it is handmade and made on order, just makes it feel that bit more special. When receiving the bracelet it came in a beautiful box. The bracelet was tied to ribbon inside of the box to make it secure.

The solar system beads themselves are matte labradorite for Mercury, picture jasper for Venus, chrysocolla for Earth, matte red jasper for Mars, tiger's eye stone for Jupiter, coffee striped agate with a silver-tone bead frame for Saturn, and blue striped agate for Uranus and Neptune.

The beads themselves are volcanic lava beads and semi-precious gemstones. It has a silver clasp to secure the bracelet around the wrist so it is safe and secure to wear about. It would give character to your outfit and is a unisex item that could be suitable for anyone looking for something a bit different.

I am a lover of books and luckily so are my boys so the next item is right up their street with the adaption of Tim Burton’s classic A Nightmare before Christmas. 

It is a 48-page book and it is a story about Jack Skellington's adventure when he stumbles into Christmas and how he has taken it upon himself to replace Santa. However, this does not go well and all hell breaks loose. A very good story to keep you on edge.

It is a story that is engaging and full of rhythm to keep children wanting to carry on reading right till the end. Both my boys love reading books with a slight dark edge to them. Of course, not only children will like this story but adults too would love to receive this item if they are a fan of Disney or Tim Burton's film.

That is why is this personalised Nightmare before Christmas book is perfect as it is beautifully illustrated.

 You can get the book from The Gift Experience. The books come in a box to make it super special and you can also get names placed on the book to give it that personal touch - not only that each page has the name at the top.

The book is black-bound and with gold writing to make it feel luxurious. The book also comes in a Disney Timeless gift box making it a beautifully designed item to give someone special at Christmas.

Another beautiful book is The Christmas Next door by T.A. Creaser. If you are doing Christmas Eve boxes then this would make an excellent book choice for your child. You can buy the book here by Owlet press.

The story tells an important message about consumerism and that it is important to share time with loved ones and being nice to one another. 

Sometimes, you can't always get what you want or something goes wrong. Such as the oven breaking down, which happened in this story and though it is hard taking the good things can make you still enjoy the time together.

At the end of the day happy memories are more valuable than whether you have received the latest gadgets. It really is a beautiful story that brings home a happy and positive message. 

There is also a side story regarding the loss of grandad's wife and it talks about feels with death and I feel it is done in a very sensitive way for young children.

It is a good way to help discuss the loss to children and my son really was engaged and wanted to know more regarding Grandad why he felt sadness and how he moved forward with the grief of losing a special person in his life.

Cheers for reading X

This is an advertisement feature. I was given all the items in the post for free in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.