Reviews

This picture has absolutely nothing to do with this post, but Moll has been on our minds a lot recently as she has probably got to have some teeth out soon which has been very upsetting. For all non dog owners you will probably laugh, but I was in a terrible state on Monday at the prospect, and Mr B couldn't sleep so was up most of the night researching canine gingivitis (gum disease to you and me). So I'm taking her for a second opinion today and we will see where we go.

But back to the real reason for this post. For the past few years I’ve been reviewing dog friendly accommodation for Your Dog magazine. I don’t get paid for this, but it does mean we get two nights away somewhere, on a fairly regular basis, in luxury accommodation (usually) and a chance to visit somewhere I wouldn’t normally go. In return for a review and photographs.

I’ve also reviewed the odd restaurant which I have been paid for, and that’s been great. It’s also been a useful exercise as both Mr B and I eat very quickly. So having to concentrate on what we’re eating, and describe it in detail, is very good for us.

Recently, I’ve been approached by various people - writers and publishers - asking me to review their books. Some of these I review for magazines but sometimes the editors aren’t interested. So last week, I said that I was happy to review this particular book on my blog if the editor concerned wasn’t interested.

The publicist was happy and sent me the book, which is now sitting on my front room table. Having just read three books, all for review, I felt in need of a breather, and read Saving Grace by Jane Green. A fabulous, fast, page turning read which I gobbled, page by page.

No, I don’t work for free: I can’t afford to. But this provides me with free reading material. A chance to think about what I’ve read. And it’s doing the writer a favour.
There’s a certain amount of ‘what goes around, comes around.’ Of course, if I ever get the right headspace to continue writing novels, I may well be able to call in a few favours!

So if anyone out there would like something reviewed - cafe, restaurant, pub, accommodation or books - leave a comment and I’ll get back to you. I can promise a fair and considered opinion.