About

Welcome to all book readers, writers and admirers!

I am a twenty-something Yorkshire lass living in London who since I can remember have been obsessed with books.  I’m not just talking about enjoying the odd read whilst on a sun lounger in Spain, it’s more an all-consuming need to fill my life with other people’s stories,  I can’t walk past a bookshop without going in it’s like they call to me and I can’t resist  – I’m not saying it’s healthy but at least I’m being honest.

My favorite reads usually have something to do with history, I studied it at University and the enthusiasm for learning never left me, so I do enjoy the odd tale about historical figures and events in the past be it fiction or non-fiction. However, that’s not to say I’m not a fan of everything else in between – give me a book and I’ll read it, or at least try to if I’m not involved after ten pages I will most likely give up – this is more to do with the fact that I believe that books aren’t for everyone so why work at trying to enjoy something that you think you should because it’s on some ‘Top 100’ list of greats to read before you die, life’s too short so cast aside Shakespeare and embrace a bonk-buster if you so choose – sorry small rant there.

Which brings me to my next point about this blog, I called it ‘The Friendly Shelf’ because I think it encapsulates what books are to people. They are friends that you can rely on, you can escape into their worlds and fall in love with the characters, they’ll make you life and cry and generally entertain you.  So don’t buy things to make your bookshelves looks good because books are not status symbols nor are they there to collect dust they are the things dreams are made of.

I’ll be giving you honest reviews on books, written or talking, as well as, my experiences in bookshops, libraries, cafes not to mention good reading snacks and comfortable reading-wear.  In addition, I’ll try to tackle discussions concerning changes in the industry as well as publishing events – I may even start a book club – who knows the world is my oyster, the sky’s the limit and all that jazz, so before it’s too late and I start quoting some unknown philosopher let us begin – I hope you enjoy the ride!