This month, I’m reviewing two books that made me smile and, in one case, laugh out loud. Two great reads, and I gave both of them 5 stars.

One of the Best Ever: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman

I started this book feeling a tad irritated with Ove, even though I recognised some of my friends’, family’s, and even my own traits in his behaviour. But pretty soon, I was drawn into the story and couldn’t put it down. Ove is a very grumpy old man, who disapproves of pretty much everything his neighbours do, and tries to get them to modify their behaviour, especially regarding parking. Then one day, a new family arrives in the street…

I smiled, laughed out loud and sobbed in turn as Ove’s story unfolded. This is one of the best books I have ever read. Thoroughly recommended.

A Book To Make You Smile: A Night On The Orient Express by Veronica Henry

Reading this book made me smile – a lot! It was packed full of great characters in a variety of scenarios – reminiscent of a Maeve Binchy multi-character book. Each scenario comes to a satisfactory conclusion, although not always the obvious one. But for me the real star of the book was the Orient Express itself Long known to many people as the site of deadly goings-on from the pen of Agatha Christie, it was lovely to see it instead as a safe haven, a wonderful interlude where reality is suspended. I particularly loved the picture of Archie singing ‘Van the Man’ in the bar late at night. I’m sure I’m not the only reader who has Veronica Henry to blame for two additions to the bucket list: a night on the Orient Express and a visit to Venice. Highly recommended.

Dear readers, I hope you enjoy reading my occasional book reviews. I make a point of reviewing every book I read  on Amazon and on Goodreads (although, as they say on the BBC, other review platforms are also available); and I would encourage you to do the same, as reviews are very important to writers. And as always, a special plea for a review if you happen to have read one of my books. Happy reading!