Sofa Spotlight - Jane Austen: Her Life, Park Honan

If you’re anything like me you’ve probably grown up knowing the classic works of Jane Austen. You’ve probably even studied a few. I remember studying Pride and Prejudice at 16 and being amazed at how much was in it. From there the door was open to go and explore the other works, and whenever I read them I love them just as much as the first time I read them.

So then it occurred to me that I didn’t know much about Jane Austen. In an effort to correct that I picked up this biography of her life. And, I’m not going to lie, it was hard going. But in the spirit of not giving up on a book, I persevered. And I’m half glad I did. I accomplished the goal of learning more about Jane Austen, but I also feel that I could have chosen a better option. And if you know of an informative and fairly easy read biography then I’m all ears. Let me know.

Sofa Spotlight - Resthaven, Erik Therme

This book felt like a horror but without the really scary stuff that makes horror unbearable for me. Resthaven is a bout a group of teenage girls that find themselves trapped in a supposedly empty care home, which is set to be demolished.

Obviously, the care home is not empty and there’s all sorts of adventures to be had as they look for a way out. The ending is excellent in how dramatic it is and is open ended so there’s space for imagination and thought as to what happens next to the main characters.

For me this was a fun thriller without being too frightening and without a load of gore that I’m not a huge fan of. And the feeling I had although the way through was that I wasn’t going to read anything graphic and so it was quite a safe read in that sense. Would recommend if you’re looking for something quick, light and intriguing.

Sofa Spotlight: So Much More Than A Headache, Kathleen O'Shea

To me this was a very significant book to read. I’ve lived with migraines for 15 years and not once did I ever think to see if there was any literature about migraines. Turns out that there’s quite a bit. Which is what this anthology is made up of.

It goes without saying that this book was of interest to me. At the start there is a recommendation that those who don’t have migraines would benefit from reading it, to give an understand of what those who suffer with migraines experience. And I do agree with that, but I think for those readers dipping in and out of different sections would be more beneficial than trying to consume the whole thing.

The anthology is very well structured, each section following a different part of the migraine episode. I don’t often experience aura with my migraines but it was interesting to see and feel what that would be like. And I think that is what is so great about this read, it allows you to step into the shoes of someone who has a migraine and feel what it is like. For me there was a great relief in knowing that I’m not alone with these experiences and there are others who go through the same thought processes and worries.

For me what I found to be most helpful was learning how different people have learnt to live with their migraines. It removed some of the pressure of looking for a cure or a trigger to avoid. I’ve been inspired to think about my migraine life differently – to be thankful for the good days and enjoy them, and to weather the migraine days and not feel guilty about them.

Sofa Spotlight - The Jesus Way, Eugene Peterson

The Jesus Way feels like a continuation of Christ Plays in Ten Thousand Places. But for me it felt a bit of an easier read. This book deals with the different ways we can live life, what can motivate and drive us, and compares them to the way that Jesus has showed us we can live, when we follow Him.

I think it can be very easy to get caught up in how seeking money or glory or power can look good on the surface. This book really takes these other lifestyles apart, piece by piece, and reveals how they may look good, but they don’t end with satisfaction. Following Jesus is the other way around. On the surface it looks hard, and a bit stupid. But Peterson examines what makes following Jesus hard, but also worthwhile and ultimately the best way to live.

This is definitely one that I would recommend, it requires a bit of thought so maybe have a coffee on hand.

Sofa Spotlight - I Know You, Erik Therme

I love these books because they are an entertaining read. They don’t demand anything from you, all you have to do is make your coffee and settle in for a good ride. The only thing that I take for granted with these books is that it will have some weird twists and the most unlikely of people will be behind what’s going on.

I Know You is about Bree Walker’s journey to uncover what has become of her sister Alissa. Alissa storms out one day after an argument and although she doesn’t return, her backpack and creepy message do. Along the way Bree teams up, albeit reluctantly, with Alissa’s friend and together they start to track down Alissa.

It’s not a long book, but it’s full of action and very fast paced. For a quick and easy read it’s great, but I would love to see more character development and maybe a bit of a slow build. But it certainly gets the imagination going and even if the plot isn’t quite believable it’s a good story.