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Book review: The Chocolate Run, Dorothy Koomson
This is one tasty read for chocolate-fueled females after a delightful read. The Chocolate Run beautifully explores the difficulties of choosing the ‘right chocolate bar’, boyfriend and life. If you have ever pondered over a Mars, Flake or Twirl you will undoubtedly enjoy this fantastic book, written by award-winning author, Dorothy Koomson.
The main character, Amber Salpone, finds herself sleeping with her best friend, Greg Walterson and low and behold starting a secret affair. The only trouble is, he has a very promiscuous past which leaves Amber feeling uncertain and confused. To make matters worse Amber is reluctant to let him into her life or introduce him to her dysfunctional family and she can definitely be described as a commitment-phobe. Her best friend Jen changes throughout the novel, from being her ultra nice friend to manipulative and sly; the strains of their relationship make a grabbing read and lead to surprising revelations!
Full of twists and surprises The Chocolate Run is a 9/10! A must-have for readers who enjoy chocolate, themes of love, sex and uncertainty and above all else, a well-written novel.
‘I didn’t mean to, honest to goodness I didn’t. It just happened.’
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Broomhill Art Hotel and Sculpture Gardens
Broomhill Sculpture Gardens, located in North Devon is a truly remarkable display of contemporary sculptures. There are over 300 sculptures featured within 10 acres of land so you will certainly find something of interest. This sculpture park is one of the largest permanent collections in the South West and is a fantastic day out for art and sculpture lovers alike.
As well as the sculpture garden there is also the Broomhill Art Hotel, Terra Madre (the award-winning restaurant), the onsite art gallery and a lovely gift shop. Special events run throughout the year, ranging from jolly jazz evenings to anniversary celebrations and exhibitions.
Here is a selection of photographs taken at the sculpture gardens. Enjoy! And if you get the chance, visit this brilliant selection of outdoor artwork.
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Review: Purbeck Folk Festival 2012
Foot stomping, rain dancing, raw talent and the beautiful Dorset countryside, this is Purbeck Folk Festival 2012. PFF has everything you could possibly want from a festival; incredibly talented folk musicians and bands, a picturesque location and plentiful supply of locally produced delicacies and award-winning ales and ciders. Cheers to that!
Running throughout the bank holiday weekend (24-26th August), Purbeck Folk Festival was awe-inspiring, uplifting and managed to successfully encompass the broadest definition of ‘folk’.
What is on offer at Purbeck Folk Festival?
Not only does the festival showcase the most gifted folk musicians, it also offers; captivating poetry slam competitions, beard and moustache competitions, art and craft stalls, woodwork demonstrations, open mic sessions, workshops for fitness, drama and comedy, face painting, Morris dancing, tarot card reading and much more!
Who is the festival suitable for?
This festival has such a friendly, warm and vibrant feel, making it extremely ideal and suitable for the young, the old, families, couples and friends. There are plenty of activities for children over the weekend which just adds to the pleasant environment. This is also a rarity which is often not provided at other festivals.
Which bands/artists stood out in particular?
With such a fantastic and varied line-up it was extremely difficult to choose who to watch. The artists perform on one of three different stages (middle barn, long barn and an outdoor stage, the fire stage) throughout the day and evening. This is a brief selection of some of the artists I had the opportunity to enjoy over the weekend:
Larkin Poe– the song writing sisters really brought soul and joy to Dorset. A fantastic set by the pair, enjoyed by all!
KT Tunstall– headlining Saturday night KT certainly created a stir in the long barn! Her sound was electric, energetic and above all else entertaining. The Scottish singer knew how to work the crowd and we certainly loved her. Playing fantastic hits such as ‘Suddenly I see’ and ‘Other Side of the World’ the crowd were well and truly mesmerised by the chart-topping star.
Shooglenifty– this six piece band from Edinburgh was phenomenal. They played a variety of songs that combined traditional Scottish sounds, rock and electro pop with funky melodies and rhythms. A musical cocktail that sure tasted sweet. They are definitely highly recommended.
Hat Fitz & Cara Robinson– this pair are simply astonishing, bursting with such energy, creativity and flair you cannot help but fall in love with them. Described as ‘beauty and the beast’ they produce such beautiful, upbeat music; think folk, blues, stunning vocals and ladies and gentlemen you are a little closer to understanding what makes Hat Fitz & Cara Robinson tick! You really won’t be the same after these two.
The Penny Red– this four piece band from Wiltshire is a delight to watch. Their music is punchy, emotive and fresh, I can see this band going far with the charming voice of Jess Vincent seducing you on the way.
The Paper Shades– Sarah Dollar and Jon Rixon produce dreamy, acoustic music that really sounds great. They work well together on stage and are a joy to watch.
Ant Henson– Henson’s sound is undeniably infectious and captivating. His lyrics bare honesty, emotion and are the works of a hardworking and passionate, young songwriter. At the tender age of twenty-three Henson is an all-round entertainer and crowd pleaser: definitely worth a listen.
Chris Woodford– He is an incredibly talented young man and when let loose on a twelve string guitar you are unknowingly lured into his magical world. And boy, you won’t want to leave.
The Widowmaker– emotive, moving and mesmerising successfully sums up The Widowmaker. His music discusses on a satirical level, the reality and disillusionment of the modern world we live in. His sound can be described as atmospheric and affective; I can guarantee you will want to listen to The Widowmaker over and over again. Satisfyingly addictive.
Catherine Burke Band– Catherine Burke Band is an upbeat, folk band that uses humour well and are open, honest and downright entertaining.
What makes Purbeck Folk Festival so fantastic?
The rural countryside location, the very reasonable ticket price (which includes camping), the array of unique musicians, interactive events running throughout the weekend and finally, perhaps most importantly, the wonderful people who attend and run the festival.
Help show your support for grassroot musicians. Think folk, think Purbeck Folk Festival 2013; book your tickets online now.
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