May Book Round-Up

Here's what I've been reading in May:

Absent (DS Coupland #4) by Emma Salisbury* - I simply love the Coupland series. See my review HERE.

Snap by Belinda Bauer*** - Jack, Joy and Merry await their mum coming back from the phone box. Their car has broken down and it's a sweltering hot day in the summer of '98. They wait, and wait, and wait. Until they realise she's not coming back.

Their father is distraught and disappears leaving Jack in charge. Jack turns to burglary to make ends meet, helping himself to electrical goods, food and the occasional sleep in a cozy bed where he likes to pretend he's living a normal, good, decent life.

One day on a job Jack spots the knife that killed his mother and leaves it beside the bed of the homeowner, Catherine, a young pregnant woman along with a note....DCI John Marvel is drafted in to snare "goldilocks" and stumbles upon new evidence on the murder case of their mum. A great fast paced read which I'd recommend.

Songs by Dead Girls by Lesley Kelly** - having loved the first installment of the Health of Strangers series (and the short read) I couldn't wait to read the second in the series. This story involves a missing academic, a prostitute and a drug dealer. The HET Team chase up those who have missed their health check or are in danger of missing it. 

Mona and the boss Paterson are in London trying to track down the Professor while Maitland is left in charge much to Bernard's disgust. With brilliant storylines, banter and lots of laugh out loud moments. I simply loved it.

Dying Truth (DI Kim Stone #8) by Angela Marsons*** - OMG I simply loved the latest DI Kim Stone book! Fast paced and exciting I devoured it in a few sittings.

The setting is a very expensive boarding school, Heathcrest Academy where a young girl has supposedly committed suicide. Kim's not one for shutting a case when there's a niggle in her mind. Something isn't right and she's determined to find out the truth. 

There are secret elistist clubs where the students with the right connections get asked to join. To refuse is unheard of and punishable. Kim, Bryan, Dawson and Stacey are on the case to find out who is telling the truth and who is lying.. The story has a shocking explosive ending. Highly recommend.

Her Name was Rose by Claire Allan*** - this debut novel is published in June so I'll leave my thoughts in my June round-up.

Her Secret by Kelly Forentina** - I took part in the Blog Tour for this cracking novel. See my review HERE.

Manhattan Beach by Jennifer Egan**** - Anna Kerrigan, is nearly twelve when she goes with her father to meet a man called Dexter Styles who Anna senses is crucial to her family's survival. His house at Manhattan Beach spellbounds her.

Her father suddenly disappears, no one knows where he's gone but Anna doesn't stop looking for him. She can't believe he'd leave her mother and disabled sister Lydia, a sister Anna adores.

The country is at war and Anna finds work at a Brooklyn naval yard doing a job a man would normally have done. She's determined to be a diver and through perseverance becomes the first woman diver repairing war ships.

Quite by chance she meets Dexter Styles again and is drawn to him. The feelings seem quite mutual until she tells him who she really is and that she's still searching for her missing father.

A stunning historical novel all about the depression, the war years, gangsters, sailors, divers, the sea, the union men and forbidden love. I loved it.

Only the Dead Know - A Daniel 'uneasy' Truce Mystery by C J Dunford*** - I really enjoyed the first in this new series. Daniel "uneasy" Truce is back in civvy street after a traumatic military tour of the Middle East.

He's got PTSD but manages to land himself a job in an investigations unit. His boss hates him and gives him the job of closing down the case of the old lady who believes she witnessed a murder. There's something about the case which niggles him and he just doesn't want to let it go. What is it that everyone else is missing? A great read. Already looking forward to book #2.

From last month:

I took part in two blog tours - A Fractured Winter by Alison Baillie* (REVIEW) and Fault Lines by Doug Johnstone** (REVIEW) and thoroughly enjoyed both.  

In March, I read the incredible Star of the North by D B John*** (it wasn't published until this month). It's a book I feel everyone should read as I found it totally fascinating.

Two teenagers are snatched on a South Korean beach never to be seen again. Jenna can't forget her sister, Soo-min and vows to find out what happened to her. She gets on with her life and becomes a Professor at a University but never stops looking for her twin.

The CIA get wind of this and she trains to become one of their operatives (which in itself makes fascinating reading). She goes on an official trip in North Korea to get a feel for it and again undercover to try and save someone's life.

There are two stories intertwined with Jenna's and Soo-min's, a North Korean woman, Ms Moon whose life changes the day she finds the balloon from the village down below and a high raking official. The story gives us glimpses into a very, very different world. Loved it.

What have you been reading this month?

*copy from the author

**copy from the publisher

***copy from the publisher via Netgalley

****copy from Love Reading

Thai Square Spa: iMantara Hair & Body Range

I've been trying out several products from Thai Square Spa's iMantara Spa range. The Spa opened in 2010 in Covent Garden, London and is a haven of tranquility and escape from the bustle of the city.

There are five Thai Massage Treatment rooms, six Ritual Massage rooms and a VIP suite along with Hot and Cold zones. See more information HERE.

iMantara products are beautiful. Scented with Thai Jasmine Flower extract they are perfect for spring and summer and inspired by centuries of Thai massage technique and holistic know how and are a real treat for both the skin and senses.

I've been trying out 4 products from the range - So Sen Uplifting Jasmine Massage & Body Oil* (£25.95 - 250ml) which is a rich and sumptuous blend of skin loving oils scented with exotic Jasmine. All you need are a few drops massaged over the skin to deeply hydrate and leave the skin delicately scented. LOVE!

The second body care product I've been trying is their Peaceful Palms Balancing Jasmine & Citrus Hand Lotion* (£12.95 - 240ml) which is presented in a pump action bottle. It softens and nourishes and leaves the hands feeling comfortable and deliciously scented.

The final two items I've been testing are Jasmine High Shine Shampoo* (£9.95 - 200ml) and Jasmine High Shine Healing Conditioner* (£9.95 - 220ml) which are currently sat beside my shower. I love the pump bottle for shampoo which delivers exactly the right amount needed and is easy to use in the shower. The shampoo gently but thoroughly cleans and restores while the creamy conditioner treats and nourishes.

I've been really impressed with this gorgeous and exquisitely scented range. Pick yours up HERE.

*complimentary

May: Lately I've Been Loving

Here are my May loves:

I'm a huge fan of sample sizes which means you can try before you buy. Buy 5 with an order of £10 or more at Love Lula (sometimes there are free samples there too but mostly they start at 25p and go upwards in price). With my last #LLABP purchase I picked up 5 Alteya Organics sachets* - Rose Otto Face Wash, Rose Otto Ageless Eye Cream, Rose Otto Day Moisturiser, Rose Jasminium Illuminating Perfecting Serum and Rose Jasminium Timeless Glow Renewal Moisturizer.  I got several uses out of each sachet making them great for try me or holidays.

Along with Kelly (Love Book Groups) and Joanne (Portobello Book Blog) we went along to Emma Sailsbury's Book Launch Party at Herringbone in North Berwick. It was such a fun night (thanks Kelly for the use of your photos!) See my review of Absent (DS Coupland #4) HERE.

Emma, me, Kelly and Joanne

We went for lunch to Scran & Scallie and I had the most amazing Heritage Tomato salad, olive and tomato consomme. It was so fresh and delicious.

Of course being in Stockbridge I had to drop by The Method where I picked up a couple of bits. See my review of the Austin Austin Organic Body Cream HERE.

May is Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box 1st Birthday and along with founder Paula we collaborated with great British brands which are favourites of mine. The box was Beauty Balm curates.... (I was over the moon and then some!) See my review and what's inside HERE.

As you'll know I'm currently working through Formula Botanica's excellent Diploma in Organic Skincare Formulation. I'm nearly ready to share with you a progress report. See my initial thoughts HERE and my update HERE. The course is really fascinating and you need to put in extra hours researching ingredients. Below is my first warm blended cream. I'm currently working through the facial skincare modules and will update you very soon (and yes, my labeling will improve!)

And May could never go past without me mentioning the fabulous #SuperfoodsSeries by bodhi & birch. The new range is stunning (if I could only use one skincare range again, it'd be this). See my review HERE.

What have you been loving this month?

*sent to me as part of the Love Lula Accredited Blogger Program

May Empties

Here's what I've been using up in May:

D’ALCHÉMY Essential Body Balm Mini 15ml - I simply loved this and the brand is amazing. See my review HERE. Full size is on the wishlist.

YULI Ambrosia Beauty Nectar Sample* - beautiful brand. See my review HERE. Would very happily use this again but it's pricey.

REN Moroccan Rose Otto Bath Oil 10ml - one of my favourite products from REN. Will buy full size again when my stash reduces. See my review HERE. These small sizes are perfect for travel/try me.

Vanderohe No.1 Nourishing Face Serum 10ml* - which is one of my favourite skincare products of '18. See my review HERE.  Yes, I'll definitely buy this at some point (simply stunning).

Apothaka Rejuventating Face Oil 10ml - which I received in my March Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. I loved this beautiful light oil - see my review HERE. Will pick this up again when my face oil stash reduces (it's a bit out of control at the moment!)

Kat Burki Bio-Correcting Face Creme 10ml - this was nice to try but not sure I'd buy.

Bodhi & Birch Avo Bao Cleansing Balm 15ml* - I was part of the focus group for the new Superfoods Series and I simply adored this. Rushed out and bought full size - fabulous! See my review HERE (the formula has been tweaked slightly and I love it even more!)

Anita Grant Organic Vanilla Cocoa Body Butter 15g - I received this in my April Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. It was lovely to revisit (and I've already bought full size). See my review HERE.

Weleda Wild Rose Creamy Body Wash 20ml* and Weleda Wild Rose Body Oil 10ml* - I loved both of these and would buy full size. Check out my post on their #CleanerBeauty Campaign HERE.

ByTerry Baume de Rose Body Cream 50g - I received this in a gift set from a friend. It was lovely to use, super rich and nourishing. My stash is huge so unlikely to buy.

balance me super toning body polish 50ml - nice to use. Maybe not quite scrubby enough for me. Unlikely to re-purchase.

Tropic Skincare Jasmine, Neroli & Vetivert Body Wash* - loved this exotic scented wash. See my review HERE. Likely to buy when my stash reduces.

NorthburN Revive Orange, Lavender & Palmarosa Luxury Bath Salts 100g - I received them in March's Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box and really loved them. Although I used them one evening (in error) and had a terrible nights sleep haha. I'm currently trying their Neroli and Vetiver ones. Absolutely gorgeous and will review soon (and will buy again).

Seed of Life Holistic Health Eternal Rose Luxury Mineral Bath Salts 100g - I received them in February's Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box. Really enjoyed them and would buy.

Estee Lauder Double Wear Nude Water Fresh Makeup SPF30 - Pure Beige - I wasn't totally taken with this. I found it just too watery although the shade was good. Wouldn't buy again.

Tabitha James Kraan Amber Rose Hair Oil 3ml - simply loved this. Full size is firmly on the wishlist. See my review HERE.

ORIBE Dry Texturizing Spray 75ml - I really like this dry shampoo for refreshing between washes. Just opened a new one.

Ere Perez Herbal Facial Tonic 100ml** - which is absolutely beautiful. One I'll definitely buy. See my review HERE.

Kinvara Absolute Cleansing Oil 100ml*** - a new to me brand for Beauty Shortlist Award judging. Absolutely gorgeous. See my mini review HERE. Sure I'll buy this when my cleansing stash goes down a bit.

Tabitha James Kraan Clean Conditioner - Amber Rose 10ml - I got at least 6 uses out of this sachet which is a great try me or for holidays. See my review HERE. I'll definitely consider buying this soon.

Bumble & Bumble Surf Foam Wash Shampoo 7ml and Surf Creme Rinse Conditioner 7ml - these were nice to try but didn't really suit my hair so wouldn't buy.

Sisley White Ginger Contouring Oil for Legs 8ml - this had a gel type texture and I got 2 uses from the sachet. Seemed nice but too small a sample to see any difference. 

LIXIR Electrogel Cleanser sachet - I've been wanting to try the range for a while. This cleanser seems nice but teeny one use sachet. Not sure I love it enough to buy full size but nice to try. I am loving however their Vitamin C Paste!

Faith in Nature Watermelon Shower Gel & Bath Foam 7ml - I didn't find this fruity enough (it had a synthetic type of scent). Wouldn't buy.

Alteya Organics Rose Otto Face Wash**, Rose Jasminium Timeless Glow Renewal Moisturiser** and Rose Jasminium Illuminating Perfecting Serum** sachets - I loved the face wash but wasn't keen on the scent of the moisturiser and serum.

Sisley Reconstructuring Conditioner 8ml - this seemed lovely but unlikely to buy as it's pricey. But nice to try.

What have you been using up this month?

*complimentary

**sent to me as part of the Love Lula Accredited Blogger Program

***Beauty Shortlist tester

Blog Tour: Her Secret by Kelly Florentia

Having loved No Way Back which featured in my April Book Roundup I couldn't wait to read Kelly's newest novel, Her Secret. Today I'm on the blog tour:

When one door closes, another opens, or so the saying goes. After being in a long-term relationship for eight years, Audrey Fox never thought she'd tie the knot. But at the age of forty-two, fate throws her a lifeline and she finally has it all - a loving husband, successful career, beautiful family and loyal friends. Life couldn't be better for Audrey ... until a family member entrusts her with a secret that threatens trouble in paradise. Lying to her new husband definitely wasn't on the cards when Audrey took her vows, but now she feels there's no other choice. She either keeps the secret or risks hurting the people that she loves. And then just when the dust seems to settle, an old flame turns up and creates a storm that could bring her world crashing down ... Unable to discuss her dilemma with her significant friends Louise and Tina, or sister-in-law Vicky, the cracks begin to show. Torn between her husband and the people she's known and loved for years, Audrey's perfect life begins to spiral out of control. Where do her loyalties lie and whom can she trust? Because there's no smoke without fire and everyone has secrets ... don't they?

My thoughts?

It was so good to be back in Audrey's world! She's happily married to gorgeous Daniel (and still got her shoe addiction) - what could possibly go wrong... Daniel's daughter Connie is still a pain in the neck. Daniel goes running whenever she clicks her fingers which really frustrates Audrey. A family member asks Audrey to keep a secret and she finds she hates lying to Daniel and wishes she'd said no.

Her career is going well she feels she's truly on the up, she still catches up with her friends, maybe not as often as before and she truly feels she's moved on.  There are many twists and turns and we find out a few surprising things along the way. A great sequel which I thoroughly enjoyed (oh and that ending!) Loved it!

*complimentary proof copy sent by the publisher

Bodhi & Birch: Superfoods Series

I took part in the focus group* for the new Bodhi & Birch Superfoods Series and can honestly say this is new range is just incredible. Expertly handcrafted and formulated with love, care and attention to detail. The range is essential oil free and products are naturally aromatically scented with the blends of raw ingredients. Each product in the capsule series can be mixed for instance, add the Lemon Water Hydrosol Toner to the Renshen Root Exfoliant & Mask to blend to a creamy paste (I also like adding a drop or two of Super25 Botanical Serum).

The products are housed in biophotonic glass recyclable bottles and FSC certified packaging. I think the packaging is stunning...it's the little things (and I love that it's all recylable too).

I was sent the mini sizes* (as part of the focus group) and all products remain the same apart from the Avo Bao Cleansing Balm which has had it's formulation slightly changed and the Tomato Seed Cleansing oil had a name change. The Super25 serum no longer has a space between Super and 25. This discovery set will be available to buy soon along with a hand-thrown black clay bowl, vegan masking brush and cotton face cloth.

My thoughts?

WOW just WOW. The products are simply exquisite (I had to rush out and pre-order) that amazing Avo Bao Cleansing Balm (£55 - 100ml) which I fell totally head over heels for and I was very kindly sent Lemon Water Hydrosol Tonic* (£50 - 100ml) for taking part in the focus group and generously gifted Super25 Botanical Serum* (£75 - 30ml).

Tomato Seed Cleansing Oil (£55 - 100ml) while not one I immediately fell for the cleansing oil contains super antioxidant Tomato Seed, Plum Kernel, Rosehip and Cranberry Seed oils. The cleansing oil makes light work of daily grime and make up while leaving the skin feeling comfortable and nourished.

To use: warm 4 to 6 pumps between palms and massage onto the skin, place a warm steamy towel over the face and neck, pressing against the skin before gently wiping clean. 

Tip: mix with Avo Bao Cleansing Balm to create an emulsifying milk. It can also be used as a facial or body oil (I love a multi-use product!)

Renshen Root Exfoliant & Mask (£60 - 100ml) I must admit I initially found this a bit faffy (I'm not a huge fan of masks you prepare yourself) but...I found myself loving the ritual of mixing and applying and even got used to the strong herbal scent.. I loved the results - my skin looked glowy, radiant, toned and just my skin but better! 

The mask contains ingredients such as Korean Ginseng, Astragalus, Wild Yam, Cat's Claw, Montmorilllonite and Kaolin Clays along with Raw Cacao and fruit powders. 

To use: mix a teaspoon with a few drops or water until blended to a creamy paste. Massage onto the skin avoiding the eye area. Rinse. Alternatively mix with Avo Bao Cleansing Balm and apply as a face mask. Leave 10 minutes before rinsing.

Tip: blend with any combination of the Superfoods Series to create a bespoke ritual. Can also be blended with yogurt or honey.

Oh how I love you Avo Bao Cleansing Balm! That colour is just wonderful. Formulated with nutrient rich superfoods Avocado and Baobab along with Hemp, Plum Kernel, Green Coffee, Cacao and Coconut butters and Spirulina. It has an almost edible scent and smooth texture. The balm melts on contact with the fingertips and oh is such a joy to use.

To use:  warm a small amount and massage onto dry skin, wet skin with a little water and continue massaging to emulsify the cleanser before rinsing.

Tip: mix with Renshen Root Exfoliant & Mask to form a scrub/mask. Can also be used as it is as a nourishing balm.

My second favourite from the range is Lemon Water Hydrosol Tonic which is a blend of pure distilled hydrosols from lemon, orange blossom and bergamot. The blend also contains hyaluronic acid and pea peptide to lock in moisture and increase skin tone and elasticity, Pomegranate strengthens while Cucumber cools. It also contains a clear quartz crystal sphere to charge and vibrate the senses.

To use: after cleansing spray liberally over the face and neck.

Tip: mix with Renshen Root Exfoliant & Mask and Avo Bao Cleansing Balm to create an emulsifying scrub/mask. Use on the go to uplift and calm.

Super25 Botanical Serum is very special indeed. Formulated with 25 super seed, fruit, nut and berry oils (WOW) high in potent actives, antioxidants, polyphenols, phytosterols, EFA and vitamins which target skin degradation and ageing.  The list of ingredients it contains is jaw dropping - Organic Plum Kernel, Organic Baobab, Blueberry Seed, Organic Cranberry Seed, Green Coffee, Organic Rosehip, Organic Prickly Pear Seed, Organic Maracuja Seed, Organic Marula, Organic Pomegranate Seed, Organic Hemp Seed, Organic Avocado, Organic Sesame Seed, Organic Camellia, Organic Moringa, Organic Broccoli Seed, Olive Squalane, Organic Tamanu Seed, Organic Sea Buckthorn, Organic Black Seed, Organic Sacha Inchi, Organic Yangu, Organic Cacay and Organic Acai oils along wit Co-Enzyme Q10.

To use: warm a few drops between your palms and press onto the face and neck

Tip: add a couple of drops to your moisturiser for a super nutrient boost.

What's your favourite product from the range?

*complimentary

Austin Austin Organic: Neroli Petitgrain Body Cream

I discovered Austin Austin Organic back in March at The Method, Stockbridge. Tried a few of the products in the range, got home and ordered their Palmarosa & Vetiver Hand Cream. See my review HERE.

As you'll probably know I'm going through an neroli addiction at the moment so their Neroli Petitgrain Body Cream (£14 - 120ml) just slipped in my basket. It's simply glorious with the texture of thick cream and that scent is truly amazing - uplifting and calming at the same time.

Packaging is simple but stylish and is recyclable. The range is such excellent value for money. It will be being bought again and again as I just love it! I want at some point to try it all!

The cream deeply nourishes the skin, absorbing instantly and leaving the skin with a delicate and delicious scent.  It's formulated without GM ingredients, SLS, silicones, parabens, mineral oils, artificial colours or fragrances, certified organic and vegetarian (contains beeswax).

Have you tried any Austin Austin Organic products?

Sisley Beauty Subscription: May - Country Escape

As you'll know I signed up to the Sisley Beauty Box Subscription after having had to try their March selection - In the Name of the Rose. Last month the theme was Hair Rituel and it was fab to try the new haircare range (I especially liked the Precious Hair Care Oil). The subscription costs £35 for 6 months or £70 for 12 months including p&p. Sign up HERE.

Here's what I received this month:

Express Flower Gel Aux Fleurs 10ml 

Hydra Global Serum 2ml

Ecological Compound 10ml

White Ginger Contouring Oil for Legs 8ml

Eau de Campagne EdT 1.4ml

I've used the Express Flower mask before and my skin loved it. Will let you know my thoughts probably in an empties post of the other items.

Next month the theme is Caribbean Escape (can't wait!)

Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box - May - Beauty Balm Curates

I'm very excited to share with you my top picks from my favourite UK brands. Thanks so much to Paula at Skin Organics Clean Beauty Box and the brands inside for collaborating. This is the 1st Birthday box too.

So now for a closer look..

Inside are two beautiful balms - from Edinburgh based Lucky Cloud Skincare (which I've loved from the beginning when there were only a few products in the range) we have their Nourishing Cleansing Balm (£8 - 15ml). See my review HERE. This beautiful balm made my top products of '17 - see HERE.

From AS.Apothecary there is a pot of their exquisite Wild Beauty Balm Concentrate #30 (which is worth £21). See my review HERE. Amanda's products are truly gorgeous and so very carefully handcrafted. Once you've tried this balm you'll definitely want more from the RANGE.

There had to be face oils in there as they are one of my favourite products..ever! Inside is bodhi & birch's Award Winning Desert Rose Facial Oil (5ml - £9.95) which was a Winner at the Beauty Shortlist Awards this year and is always in my stash. See my review HERE.

New to me this year is the wonderful Botany Blend which won the Beauty Shortlist's Editors Choice Award. I totally fell in love with their MERU Omega Rich Luxe Face Oil and inside is a 1ml trial size of the oil (£2.50). See my review HERE.

And these two are my most favourite bath and body products...ever! I once said if I could only ever use one bath product for the rest of my life it would be these salts! Inside is 100g pack (£10) of Therapie Roques O'Neil Himalayan Detox Salts. See my review HERE.

Award Winning (Beauty Shortlist Awards Best Body Oil Winner 2018) Isla Apothecary's Neroli Body Oil (15ml - £4.50) is one of my most favourite body oils..ever! See my review HERE. It made my final cut of best products of '17 also - see HERE.

The final item is a bar of delicious Aromatherapy Dark Chocolate with pure rose oil and rose petals (it's outstanding!) from JustBe Botanicals. See my review HERE (check out the others in the range HERE).

As ever, there are discount codes included from some of the brands. So there you have it... What do you think of my choices?