What do you think?
Rate this book
Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street
An offbeat, funny and heartwarming romantic novel from the fabulous King of Strictly, Craig Revel Horwood.Set against the colourful boho backdrop of London's Camden in the 1990s, Craig Revel Horwood's first novel, Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street, tells the story of an unlikely family of friends who each rent a room in a ramshackle six-bedroom, four-storey townhouse. Like any family, the residents of Diamond Street sometimes fights and often act up but when the chips are down, they're there for each other in an instant - usually brandishing a cheap bottle of booze, and the offer of an impromptu kitchen disco. Presided over by the wise-cracking but warm-hearted patriarch of the family, Danny Hall, a professional dancer turned choreographer, the novel follows a year in the life of the inhabitants of Diamond Street, rough diamonds one and all, as they try to achieve their dreams - with unexpected, heart-warming and sometimes hilarious results.
353 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2020
61 people are currently reading
313 people want to read
About the author
Craig Revel Horwood
8 books39 followersCraig Revel Horwood is an Australian-British dancer, choreographer and theatre director in the United Kingdom. He is a patron of the National Osteoporosis Society. He is best known as a judge on the BBC dancing show Strictly Come Dancing. He published his autobiography in 2008.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
June 26, 2021
27 Diamond Street is a 6 bedroom townhouse occupied by a set of random house mates who turn into a family of sorts. Most are in the entertainment industry as dancers, choreographers and costume designers. They are a set of characters who would unlikely befriend each other, but being thrust together as roommates brings out special bonds between them.
Set in the 1990s, this was so nostalgic and fun. With references to Four Weddings And A Funeral (one of my favorites) and mentions of pop culture, I had fun reliving that time period.
There are several characters representing the LGBTQ community, making this an absolute perfect for pride month.
Overall, this is a wonderful story of friendship, kindness and love. Another book I'd classify as a warm hug for my soul.
Set in the 1990s, this was so nostalgic and fun. With references to Four Weddings And A Funeral (one of my favorites) and mentions of pop culture, I had fun reliving that time period.
There are several characters representing the LGBTQ community, making this an absolute perfect for pride month.
Overall, this is a wonderful story of friendship, kindness and love. Another book I'd classify as a warm hug for my soul.
August 27, 2021
I have no idea why everyone isn’t talking about this book. I mean, I see the Guncle everywhere (which is a wonderful book), but this one is every bit as amazing. The characters are delightful & quirky & they make me want to go to London in the 90’s. The storyline is a little predictable, but extremely cute. There were some heavy topics, but I think it also shows just how far we’ve come in our journey toward acceptance of all types of people. I highly recommend.
January 6, 2022
Welcome to 27 Diamond Street where you can be as fabulous and strange as you want, while also embracing all the differences that make your housemates wonderful.
This book is set in 1994, London, and follows a group of people who become a sort of found family to one another when they all live in the same house on Diamond Street. Danny and Cat are dancers, Jewel is a fashion designer working in theatre, Pete is a mopey poet, and Lil in the attic does a bit of everything. Lachlan the nurse is the black sheep of the house, but soon finds the presence of the others, especially Cat, helps him forget past horrors and heal his heart.
This was just a lot of fun, and a perfect book to read if you want something nice -something about friendship, family in the less traditional sense, all while enjoying a bit of flamboyancy and campness. I think there were some good topics hinted at in this book though not explored in great details - Cat's confidence issues, as well as some fat-shaming she receives from others but also herself, as well as Jewel's experiences with homophobia. The main cast of characters are loud and fun, while you also have the quieter ones like Jewel and Lachlan who are looked after very well by everyone. This is the type of house you would like to be dropped into to experience, or go with them on a night out or to one of their parties as it's just all very feel good.
A very pleasant surprise for me I must say, I'm glad I read it.
This book is set in 1994, London, and follows a group of people who become a sort of found family to one another when they all live in the same house on Diamond Street. Danny and Cat are dancers, Jewel is a fashion designer working in theatre, Pete is a mopey poet, and Lil in the attic does a bit of everything. Lachlan the nurse is the black sheep of the house, but soon finds the presence of the others, especially Cat, helps him forget past horrors and heal his heart.
This was just a lot of fun, and a perfect book to read if you want something nice -something about friendship, family in the less traditional sense, all while enjoying a bit of flamboyancy and campness. I think there were some good topics hinted at in this book though not explored in great details - Cat's confidence issues, as well as some fat-shaming she receives from others but also herself, as well as Jewel's experiences with homophobia. The main cast of characters are loud and fun, while you also have the quieter ones like Jewel and Lachlan who are looked after very well by everyone. This is the type of house you would like to be dropped into to experience, or go with them on a night out or to one of their parties as it's just all very feel good.
A very pleasant surprise for me I must say, I'm glad I read it.
January 2, 2023
3.5/5
June 5, 2023
Never usually do the choose a gay author as its Pride month thing ( not bothered if gay or straight tbh as long as write a good book ) but unintentionally did with this choice and tbh am glad I
It was fun, set at 27 Diamond Street in Camden in the 90’s with a wealth of characters living there, Lil the old hippie who has a tale to tell about what she did with every old singer/actor, Danny ( the lead character ) gay and uptight but with a heart of gold, Lachlan the Australian nurse trying to forget his past, Cat and Danny dancers who are looking to make it big, Jewel newly in London and needs to be accepted for who he is…plus more….I genuinely loved them all and wanted to go round and meet them…they had such laughs ( and parties ) and were really a big family…of course this included having problems and setbacks and coping with some very serious homophobia but they faced it all together
You can hear CRH throughout in the narration ( well I could )
Pretty perfect for a good lol romantic, yet not worried re tackling real challenges, read
It was fun, set at 27 Diamond Street in Camden in the 90’s with a wealth of characters living there, Lil the old hippie who has a tale to tell about what she did with every old singer/actor, Danny ( the lead character ) gay and uptight but with a heart of gold, Lachlan the Australian nurse trying to forget his past, Cat and Danny dancers who are looking to make it big, Jewel newly in London and needs to be accepted for who he is…plus more….I genuinely loved them all and wanted to go round and meet them…they had such laughs ( and parties ) and were really a big family…of course this included having problems and setbacks and coping with some very serious homophobia but they faced it all together
You can hear CRH throughout in the narration ( well I could )
Pretty perfect for a good lol romantic, yet not worried re tackling real challenges, read
June 30, 2021
Aww this was such a nice read!
*
Set against the colourful boho backdrop of London's Camden in the 1990s, Craig Revel Horwood's first novel, Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street, tells the story of how 8 very different people who live I'm a house share become a family of friends. Like any family, there are ups and downs but their bond is strong. Through wild parties, intimate moments, awkward break ups and heartbreaking events, the 'Rough Diamonds' navigate through life at Diamond Street with love and laughter.
*
This book was such an easy read. It was just what I needed as everyone knows I read heavy stuff! I loved the humour throughout especially through father figure of the house Danny with his witty back and forth with the other characters and trippy Lil who just made me giggle. I want a trippy Lil inny life!
*
One of the most important aspects of the books is highlighted through Jewel who has escaped from his hometown to London where he hopes to truly be himself but comes up against horrific treatment towards himself and the LGBTQ+ community. This was dealt with delicately but with raw emotion and highlighted how open people can be with disgusting homophones attitudes.
*
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot! Thank you to @craigrevel @omarabooks @lovebookstours for having me along on the tour!
*
Set against the colourful boho backdrop of London's Camden in the 1990s, Craig Revel Horwood's first novel, Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street, tells the story of how 8 very different people who live I'm a house share become a family of friends. Like any family, there are ups and downs but their bond is strong. Through wild parties, intimate moments, awkward break ups and heartbreaking events, the 'Rough Diamonds' navigate through life at Diamond Street with love and laughter.
*
This book was such an easy read. It was just what I needed as everyone knows I read heavy stuff! I loved the humour throughout especially through father figure of the house Danny with his witty back and forth with the other characters and trippy Lil who just made me giggle. I want a trippy Lil inny life!
*
One of the most important aspects of the books is highlighted through Jewel who has escaped from his hometown to London where he hopes to truly be himself but comes up against horrific treatment towards himself and the LGBTQ+ community. This was dealt with delicately but with raw emotion and highlighted how open people can be with disgusting homophones attitudes.
*
Overall, I enjoyed this book a lot! Thank you to @craigrevel @omarabooks @lovebookstours for having me along on the tour!
September 19, 2021
What a fab feel good read, loved it
June 22, 2021
Oh how I would love to live at 27 Diamond street! It sounds like an epic time!
Thank you to Love Book Tours, Craig Revel Horwood and Omara Books for sending me a copy of Dance & Dreams on Diamond Street for a review. This has honestly been a pleasure to read this book.
If you don’t know who Craig Revel Horwood is, he is one of the most incredible Ballroom dancers, choreographer and conductors in the world. He is best known as a judge on the show Strictly Come Dancing. I completely love him! As a dancer myself it is impossible not to know who he is. So was completely surprised when I found out that he was also an author. I will admit that I went into this book a little apprehensive as from experience when celebrities write books, it doesn’t go well. However, I was very pleasantly surprised.
Set against the colorful backdrop of London’s Camden Town in the 1990’s, Dance’s and dreams tells the story of an unlikely family of friends who all rent a room in 27 Diamond street.
My absolute favorite aspect of this story is the characters, I loved all of them, with the exception of Justin. It is very rare that I come across a book where every character is exceptional and has a story to tell. Danny, Lachlan, Jewel, Lil and Cat are very well rounded in their development. They all have a separate backgrounds and their own demons to fight but they all come to together perfectly. Forming a little family within the wall of the house, you get the feeling that they will always be there to help each other through all the obstacles life throws at them.
The individual chapters were written so well that they melded together effortlessly. Not once was I upset by the change of POV half way through a chapter. I have to give props to Horwood for the effortless writing style and story flow.
Ultimately, I just loved the feel good feeling and joy I felt while reading this book. I read most of it with a massive smile on my face. It is such a feel good story and I just adored all the dance and theatre aspects of the story. I just couldn’t put it down.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Thank you to Love Book Tours, Craig Revel Horwood and Omara Books for sending me a copy of Dance & Dreams on Diamond Street for a review. This has honestly been a pleasure to read this book.
If you don’t know who Craig Revel Horwood is, he is one of the most incredible Ballroom dancers, choreographer and conductors in the world. He is best known as a judge on the show Strictly Come Dancing. I completely love him! As a dancer myself it is impossible not to know who he is. So was completely surprised when I found out that he was also an author. I will admit that I went into this book a little apprehensive as from experience when celebrities write books, it doesn’t go well. However, I was very pleasantly surprised.
Set against the colorful backdrop of London’s Camden Town in the 1990’s, Dance’s and dreams tells the story of an unlikely family of friends who all rent a room in 27 Diamond street.
My absolute favorite aspect of this story is the characters, I loved all of them, with the exception of Justin. It is very rare that I come across a book where every character is exceptional and has a story to tell. Danny, Lachlan, Jewel, Lil and Cat are very well rounded in their development. They all have a separate backgrounds and their own demons to fight but they all come to together perfectly. Forming a little family within the wall of the house, you get the feeling that they will always be there to help each other through all the obstacles life throws at them.
The individual chapters were written so well that they melded together effortlessly. Not once was I upset by the change of POV half way through a chapter. I have to give props to Horwood for the effortless writing style and story flow.
Ultimately, I just loved the feel good feeling and joy I felt while reading this book. I read most of it with a massive smile on my face. It is such a feel good story and I just adored all the dance and theatre aspects of the story. I just couldn’t put it down.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
May 15, 2023
A very entertaining and enjoyable book. Set in Camden Town in the 1990s, Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street follows the ups and downs of a diverse group of housemates as they try to make their way in the world. The four main characters are Cat, an aspiring dancer who is trying to regain her self-belief, Danny, an up and coming choreographer who is still coming to terms with the break up of a past relationship, Jewel, a gender fluid young costume designer who has moved to London to escape from his judgmental parents and Lachlan, an Australian nurse who works long hours in A&E but otherwise keeps himself to himself following the death of his girlfriend in an accident.
The book is written from the perspective of each of these four characters, so the reader gets to know what they are thinking. The other two housemates are Lil, a flamboyant lady who claims to have known amongst others Mick Jagger and David Bowie in her heyday and Pete, a poet who makes infrequent appearances and mostly sits in the corner taking notes waiting for his muse.
Writers are always told when starting out to write about what they know. Craig Revel Horwood has done exactly that, basing the book on his own experiences sharing a house in Camden. This works well, giving the characters authenticity. It took me back to my student days in the 1980s and reminded me of the camaraderie and fun that we had as flatmates. Life in Diamond Street is never dull! When Jewel, Cat and her awful boyfriend Justin move in Danny cooks a Christmas dinner in June as a welcome meal. Lil concocts random highly alcoholic cocktails with unspecified ingredients. The local Greek taverna where Cat works provide delicious food and wonderful after hours parties. The rough diamonds as they are known are like a family and I was reminded of the TV series Pose, where everyone looked out for each other in a similar way.
Against this backdrop the characters develop and by the end of the book they are all well on the way to fulfilling their dreams. There have been traumas along the way - Jewel is seriously injured in a homophobic attack and the housemates fear eviction following an inspection by the letting agent the day after a very messy party. Life is often challenging for those who are seen as in some way different. Cat encounters this from Justin (thank goodness she ditches him!) with his passive aggressive comments that sap her self confidence).
The writing was good and often funny. I did think the ending was predictable in many ways but there was an unexpected revelation about Lil which I hadn’t seen coming at all - by not using her as a narrator it was possible to spring this surprise.
All in all very enjoyable - I would definitely be up for an evening in the Lemon Tree!
The book is written from the perspective of each of these four characters, so the reader gets to know what they are thinking. The other two housemates are Lil, a flamboyant lady who claims to have known amongst others Mick Jagger and David Bowie in her heyday and Pete, a poet who makes infrequent appearances and mostly sits in the corner taking notes waiting for his muse.
Writers are always told when starting out to write about what they know. Craig Revel Horwood has done exactly that, basing the book on his own experiences sharing a house in Camden. This works well, giving the characters authenticity. It took me back to my student days in the 1980s and reminded me of the camaraderie and fun that we had as flatmates. Life in Diamond Street is never dull! When Jewel, Cat and her awful boyfriend Justin move in Danny cooks a Christmas dinner in June as a welcome meal. Lil concocts random highly alcoholic cocktails with unspecified ingredients. The local Greek taverna where Cat works provide delicious food and wonderful after hours parties. The rough diamonds as they are known are like a family and I was reminded of the TV series Pose, where everyone looked out for each other in a similar way.
Against this backdrop the characters develop and by the end of the book they are all well on the way to fulfilling their dreams. There have been traumas along the way - Jewel is seriously injured in a homophobic attack and the housemates fear eviction following an inspection by the letting agent the day after a very messy party. Life is often challenging for those who are seen as in some way different. Cat encounters this from Justin (thank goodness she ditches him!) with his passive aggressive comments that sap her self confidence).
The writing was good and often funny. I did think the ending was predictable in many ways but there was an unexpected revelation about Lil which I hadn’t seen coming at all - by not using her as a narrator it was possible to spring this surprise.
All in all very enjoyable - I would definitely be up for an evening in the Lemon Tree!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2021
The book starts in June 1994 and explains all the people who lived at 27 diamond street. You start to learn about the characters as they become present during the read. I absolutely love the descriptions around London with the rules on the escalators, to the tourists taking photos of everything and how beautiful and quirky Camden actually is. I took an instant dislike to Justin, he comes across as a bit of a knob but I was intrigued to know what would come of him.
I absolutely loved how they had a Christmas meal in June and adored the quote about pavlov’s dog. From studying psychology I actually understood what that meant. Kudos to me. The book made me smile so much and I adored the little bickers between the house mates along the way especially over the prawn curry. Each and every character is individual and you love them for it.
There’s a mystery feel around Lachlan, that keeps you guessing what happened to his partner. It’s a beautiful, magical, light hearted read filled with music, Greek restaurants and lots of dancing. If you love a book that you cannot put down this is definitely for you ❤️
I absolutely loved how they had a Christmas meal in June and adored the quote about pavlov’s dog. From studying psychology I actually understood what that meant. Kudos to me. The book made me smile so much and I adored the little bickers between the house mates along the way especially over the prawn curry. Each and every character is individual and you love them for it.
There’s a mystery feel around Lachlan, that keeps you guessing what happened to his partner. It’s a beautiful, magical, light hearted read filled with music, Greek restaurants and lots of dancing. If you love a book that you cannot put down this is definitely for you ❤️
June 20, 2021
Oh, how I want to live at 27 Diamond Street! This book was a gloriously heart-warming tale of friendship and how friends can become the family you need, when your own family cannot accept you for who you are. With an eccentric cast of characters from different walks of life, this books follows their highs and lows along their journey of self-discovery, heartbreak and happiness. It was a joy to read and Revel Horwood has done an incredible job, in his first foray into fiction. While I have heard that he is writing a second novel, I have no idea what it is about. I am hoping that it features some, if not all, of the characters from Diamond Street as I loathed to say goodbye to them. Regardless, I will definitely be reading whatever he publishes next, as I really enjoyed the pace and humour of this book. A fabulous five star read!
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
This was a gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 9, 2022
I'll be honest, I was always going to rate a book by Craig Revel Horwood as 5* because he can do no wrong. But I'll admit I did have some feelings of trepidation before I started reading in case Craig's turn to author was a terrible move. It wasn't. If you lived through the early-mid 1990s in your late teens or twenties then this book holds extra appeal as Revel Horwood very much draws on aspects of this era in the story, which I loved (I was leaving home and living with some quirky characters during this time so it particularly resonated). The characters are generally likable and relatable and while it's not great literature it is a great little story. It is what it is, which is an easy feel good read. I could criticise elements of it, particularly a bit of under development of some of the characters, as well as a slight brushing over some of the interesting topics that could have been further explored, and a rather unbelievable ending, with things working out a bit too well. But why bother criticising it, it's Craig, it's a well written story with a happy ending, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Note I have managed not to include anything about it being fab-u-lous in my review, but that's ok darling. Given to me as a Christmas present and a mighty good one at that.
June 23, 2021
A glorious story about the larger than life characters who share 27 Diamond Street.
I loved Danny in particular. He was such a marvellous character- I could hear Craig Revel Horwood every time he spoke - and he really held the whole ‘family’ together. Cat and Jewel thrived under his care and following them on their journeys of self discovery and self belief was wonderfully heartwarming.
A fun and fabulous read.
I loved Danny in particular. He was such a marvellous character- I could hear Craig Revel Horwood every time he spoke - and he really held the whole ‘family’ together. Cat and Jewel thrived under his care and following them on their journeys of self discovery and self belief was wonderfully heartwarming.
A fun and fabulous read.
August 20, 2025
This is one of those books you just don't want to end. I hope Craig Revel Horwood writes a sequel. I loved every character (apart from Justin) and their individual story to find love and acceptance. I liked how it wasn't based around one type of couple but explored same sex relationships as well as straight ones. I keep saying romance isn't my genre but books like this could easily change my mind. A very well done #craigrevelhorwood.
November 25, 2020
Such a lovely book. Loved all the characters and would have loved to live in that house. Just the kind of book I needed to read at this weird time in the world. Well done Craig Revel Horwood Faaab - u - looooooos
January 12, 2021
Reading vlog and review can be found here: https://youtu.be/Fy3r2gGyY_U
September 8, 2023
A lovely story, it would be nice to have a sequel …. 💚
December 2, 2025
3.5⭐️ read as Strictly Come Dancing back on our screens. Easy to read, clearly draws in some of CRH’s life experiences, and full of great characters.
July 12, 2024
Loved young people's social life around diamond Street read it in 2 days loved it.
See what happens in the shared house.
See what happens in the shared house.
December 4, 2024
I read this in under a week. Perfect holiday read, although Australian’s don’t go around saying “strewth” and “Bonza” ever!
January 4, 2024
Love, love, loved it!
I absolutely loved this book. The characters jumped out of the pages and made me care about them (except Justin who I quite rightly didn't like! I'm sure no-one is supposed to). Anyway, everything anyone could ever want in a feel good book, I thoroughly recommend you read it.
I absolutely loved this book. The characters jumped out of the pages and made me care about them (except Justin who I quite rightly didn't like! I'm sure no-one is supposed to). Anyway, everything anyone could ever want in a feel good book, I thoroughly recommend you read it.
January 17, 2026
A good debut novel by Craig Revel Horwood - slow in its telling . I liked Jewel as a character.
June 27, 2021
“Welcome to the madhouse” – Lachlan, a resident of 27 Diamond Street.
This book follows the occupants of 27 Diamond Street in London during the 90’s on their journey of love, life, friendship and self-discovery.
Danny was a dancer, but now is a choreographer for a West End show and although he’s doing really well he’s still nursing a broken heart. Next there’s Pete the poet and his unusual poetry masterpieces that he shares with his fellow housemates. The matriarch of the house is Lil or as she’s referred to Trippy Lil who is unique and has no filter. Hardworking Lachlan is also a resident, a native of Australia who is now working as nurse whilst still haunted by a past tragedy. There’s new resident Jewel who is a dresser for West Ends shows. Jewel is learning to be his most authentic self and embracing who he truly is. His individuality shines through from the first time we meet him and his fashion sense is revolutionary. Finally there is Cat who is also a dancer and her perfect boyfriend Justin, but is Justin really as perfect as he seems.
I really enjoyed the storyline and this was an easy read for me. It was such a sweet book to read. I loved all of the characters (apart from Justin) because they all had different and sometimes eccentric personalities and quirks. Danny and Lil are like the surrogate parents to the other housemates and the head of this little family. My favourite character definitely had to be Trippy Lil, she is one character I would love to meet in real life and go flaneuring with. Plus Christmas dinner in June sounds completely normal to me. Although there were many funny moments in this book there were also some serious themes like the discrimination Jewel faces on more than one occasion because of his sexuality and the way other people perceive him. Jewel is just coming into his own when he faces discrimination and it was sad to see this knock his confidence due to other people’s ignorance. The way Justin is so critical of Cat making comments about what she eats and how she looks also knocked Cat’s confidence and she would second guess herself and her abilities. By the end of the book it was great to see a more confident and happy Jewel and Cat, who had both managed to find a family within the house. The shock surprise at the end definitely made me smile.
The characters in this book are like one big family, helping and supporting each other and this was clear from the beginning. The story amplified that family aren’t those that you are related to my blood, but those people around you who love, care for you and will always have your back. I was sad to say goodbye to the characters when the book ended as I felt I knew them all really well.
This is a heart warming read about community, family, friendship and love.
I received a gifted copy for an honest review.
This book follows the occupants of 27 Diamond Street in London during the 90’s on their journey of love, life, friendship and self-discovery.
Danny was a dancer, but now is a choreographer for a West End show and although he’s doing really well he’s still nursing a broken heart. Next there’s Pete the poet and his unusual poetry masterpieces that he shares with his fellow housemates. The matriarch of the house is Lil or as she’s referred to Trippy Lil who is unique and has no filter. Hardworking Lachlan is also a resident, a native of Australia who is now working as nurse whilst still haunted by a past tragedy. There’s new resident Jewel who is a dresser for West Ends shows. Jewel is learning to be his most authentic self and embracing who he truly is. His individuality shines through from the first time we meet him and his fashion sense is revolutionary. Finally there is Cat who is also a dancer and her perfect boyfriend Justin, but is Justin really as perfect as he seems.
I really enjoyed the storyline and this was an easy read for me. It was such a sweet book to read. I loved all of the characters (apart from Justin) because they all had different and sometimes eccentric personalities and quirks. Danny and Lil are like the surrogate parents to the other housemates and the head of this little family. My favourite character definitely had to be Trippy Lil, she is one character I would love to meet in real life and go flaneuring with. Plus Christmas dinner in June sounds completely normal to me. Although there were many funny moments in this book there were also some serious themes like the discrimination Jewel faces on more than one occasion because of his sexuality and the way other people perceive him. Jewel is just coming into his own when he faces discrimination and it was sad to see this knock his confidence due to other people’s ignorance. The way Justin is so critical of Cat making comments about what she eats and how she looks also knocked Cat’s confidence and she would second guess herself and her abilities. By the end of the book it was great to see a more confident and happy Jewel and Cat, who had both managed to find a family within the house. The shock surprise at the end definitely made me smile.
The characters in this book are like one big family, helping and supporting each other and this was clear from the beginning. The story amplified that family aren’t those that you are related to my blood, but those people around you who love, care for you and will always have your back. I was sad to say goodbye to the characters when the book ended as I felt I knew them all really well.
This is a heart warming read about community, family, friendship and love.
I received a gifted copy for an honest review.
May 6, 2022
I wasn't sure at first what to think of this book due to the authors accreditations, however I loved this story, it's a simple story of misfits in London and was written with a lot of heart to it, how the characters come together and having their own story made you feel like a resident of 27 diamond Street
July 14, 2021
** Blog Tour Stop **
💃Dances and dreams on diamond street by Craig Revel Horwood💃
💃I am always abit apprehensive when celebrities turn their hands to writing books but I didn’t need to worry. Craig Revel Horwood has written a great book full of laughter, heartwarming moments and friendship.
💃All the characters were wonderfully written I found drawn to Jewel as my particular favourite. I loved how the character points of view would change in following paragraphs keeping the story flowing at a great speed.
💃27 Diamond street gave me vibes of the shared house in the recent drama ‘It’s a sin’ where you would always have a friend to talk to and someone having your back.
💃The story been set in the 90’s was also a highlight with all the musical references was brilliantly done in the backdrop of Croydon.
I will definitely be looking out for more of Craig’s work in the future.
Thankyou to @lovebookstours , @craigrevel and @omarabooks for the chance to be on this blog tour.
💃Dances and dreams on diamond street by Craig Revel Horwood💃
💃I am always abit apprehensive when celebrities turn their hands to writing books but I didn’t need to worry. Craig Revel Horwood has written a great book full of laughter, heartwarming moments and friendship.
💃All the characters were wonderfully written I found drawn to Jewel as my particular favourite. I loved how the character points of view would change in following paragraphs keeping the story flowing at a great speed.
💃27 Diamond street gave me vibes of the shared house in the recent drama ‘It’s a sin’ where you would always have a friend to talk to and someone having your back.
💃The story been set in the 90’s was also a highlight with all the musical references was brilliantly done in the backdrop of Croydon.
I will definitely be looking out for more of Craig’s work in the future.
Thankyou to @lovebookstours , @craigrevel and @omarabooks for the chance to be on this blog tour.
February 3, 2024
I really enjoyed this !! I bought it because I thought it would be funny to read a Craig revel Norwood book but thoroughly enjoyed the characters and witty storyline.
February 27, 2022
3.5 stars - pretty predictable but i didn’t find that mattered too much, a nice light easy read
April 4, 2023
This was really good. I wanted to hug Jewel SO. BAD.
July 2, 2021
Thank you to the author for a gifted eBook in exchange for an honest review
“I am talented. I am beautiful. I am strong”
Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street, follows an unlikely family of friends who each rent a room in
a ramshackle six-bedroom, four-storey townhouse. Like any family, the residents of Diamond Street sometimes fight and often act up but when the chips are down, they’re there for each other in an instant – usually brandishing a cheap bottle of booze, and the offer of an impromptu kitchen disco.
I absolutely adored this book and majority of the characters in it, they are so well written and developed that I can’t help but wonder if they are actually based on real people! Those in our found family include;
• Danny – the patriarchal member of the family who has given up his dancing days to become a choreographer, he always seems to be the one they turn to when in trouble or requiring some fatherly type of advice
• Cat – a young dancer who comes across as a little lost and insecure, who is auditioning for jobs all around London with the “support” of her boyfriend Justin
• Pete – the poetic recluse, majority of the time found in his bedroom or corners of the room taking inspiration from the daily events around him
• Lachlan – a lovely Australian nurse who moved to the UK after personal strife he suffered in AZ, who can often be found drinking a tinny in the garden
• Lil – the matriarch of the family whose stories can range from the crazy, to the sweet and unpredictable to the unsure of the truthfulness, Lil is a happy go lucky character who is always spurring on her housemates
• Jewel – the youngest of the found family, who has travelled to London to live his dream of working in the fashion world and finding his new identity
• Justin – Cat’s boyfriend, who is also a dancer and auditioning for work, however he is not as supporting of Cat as the rest of the housemates
This book was absolutely everything I needed, the drama, the love, the representation! I honestly could not of loved a found family better than I did these guys, I honestly felt so invested in majority of these characters and felt like I was part of their family, and honestly, I would love to attend one of their house parties, they sound like a riot!
There were a couple of plot twists in this book...hello Lil!? And also, heart-breaking moments, such as
Danny meeting his dad, but especially the one involving Jewel, I cried for a while with that scene, and the scary thing being that the scene is so realistic I honestly do not doubt that had happened before and possible still does today. Plus, Justin oh what an actual idiot, if there was an award for the most unsupportive and arrogant character it goes to him, honestly, I sent a good majority of this book shouting at Cat to forget him!
This book was so gripping and engrossing, as well as fast paced and action packed, plus the romance,
whilst it was PG it was very swoon worthy. I seriously need a sequel...please? I want to know what else the characters are up to, and I feel like there is way more development that needs to be done on Pete, we don’t really learn much about him unfortunately
I would highly recommend this book to everyone, it’s a cosy read that will have you engrossed from start to finish, you will not want to put it down, and even then, you’ll want to jump in with the shenanigans
“I am talented. I am beautiful. I am strong”
Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street, follows an unlikely family of friends who each rent a room in
a ramshackle six-bedroom, four-storey townhouse. Like any family, the residents of Diamond Street sometimes fight and often act up but when the chips are down, they’re there for each other in an instant – usually brandishing a cheap bottle of booze, and the offer of an impromptu kitchen disco.
I absolutely adored this book and majority of the characters in it, they are so well written and developed that I can’t help but wonder if they are actually based on real people! Those in our found family include;
• Danny – the patriarchal member of the family who has given up his dancing days to become a choreographer, he always seems to be the one they turn to when in trouble or requiring some fatherly type of advice
• Cat – a young dancer who comes across as a little lost and insecure, who is auditioning for jobs all around London with the “support” of her boyfriend Justin
• Pete – the poetic recluse, majority of the time found in his bedroom or corners of the room taking inspiration from the daily events around him
• Lachlan – a lovely Australian nurse who moved to the UK after personal strife he suffered in AZ, who can often be found drinking a tinny in the garden
• Lil – the matriarch of the family whose stories can range from the crazy, to the sweet and unpredictable to the unsure of the truthfulness, Lil is a happy go lucky character who is always spurring on her housemates
• Jewel – the youngest of the found family, who has travelled to London to live his dream of working in the fashion world and finding his new identity
• Justin – Cat’s boyfriend, who is also a dancer and auditioning for work, however he is not as supporting of Cat as the rest of the housemates
This book was absolutely everything I needed, the drama, the love, the representation! I honestly could not of loved a found family better than I did these guys, I honestly felt so invested in majority of these characters and felt like I was part of their family, and honestly, I would love to attend one of their house parties, they sound like a riot!
There were a couple of plot twists in this book...hello Lil!? And also, heart-breaking moments, such as
Danny meeting his dad, but especially the one involving Jewel, I cried for a while with that scene, and the scary thing being that the scene is so realistic I honestly do not doubt that had happened before and possible still does today. Plus, Justin oh what an actual idiot, if there was an award for the most unsupportive and arrogant character it goes to him, honestly, I sent a good majority of this book shouting at Cat to forget him!
This book was so gripping and engrossing, as well as fast paced and action packed, plus the romance,
whilst it was PG it was very swoon worthy. I seriously need a sequel...please? I want to know what else the characters are up to, and I feel like there is way more development that needs to be done on Pete, we don’t really learn much about him unfortunately
I would highly recommend this book to everyone, it’s a cosy read that will have you engrossed from start to finish, you will not want to put it down, and even then, you’ll want to jump in with the shenanigans
July 14, 2021
Dances and Dreams on Diamond Street is such a heartwarming read. It is a tale of a unique and varied cast who come together through a house share. A group that becomes a family by choice.
You have Danny, the father figure of the house, a vibrant character with a job he adores doing. He is a choreographer and loves to let loose. Then you have Lil, the most unique personality that you will ever meet. As Dannt puts it, he swears she did bad acid in the 60’s and is on a perminant high. I loved Lil, she is so much fun. Then you have a shy character, Pete the poet, though you don’t see much, the poetry sometimes escapes. There is also an Australian male nurse that will have you falling head of over heals for; or at least I did, called Lachlan. You have Jewel, who is always full of colour and an adorable energy. Jewel was definitely a favourite of mine. Lastly you have Cat and Justin: though the later you grow to hate. Cat was a favourite of mine, she had such a great character growth tale, going from someone who let her negative relationships keep her back from her dreams to owning her truth.
I really enjoyed the writing on this one, it was funny, adorable, dramatic and full of entertaining twists. It also has me wondering whether I need a bubbly bath at the next get together. I found the character relatable even though they were dreamers and dancers, they were flawed, constantly learning and growing as the pages went on. They are the family I would love to join.
The story also had some adorable relationships and you fell in love as the characters did. I would love for this to be a musical, I can just imagine all the powerful dance numbers and a very disco inspired playlist. Full of powerful, soulful lyrics to help amplify the characters finally owning their truths. Trust me, this is the on contemporary you need this summer, I really enjoyed it and I hope you do too.
You have Danny, the father figure of the house, a vibrant character with a job he adores doing. He is a choreographer and loves to let loose. Then you have Lil, the most unique personality that you will ever meet. As Dannt puts it, he swears she did bad acid in the 60’s and is on a perminant high. I loved Lil, she is so much fun. Then you have a shy character, Pete the poet, though you don’t see much, the poetry sometimes escapes. There is also an Australian male nurse that will have you falling head of over heals for; or at least I did, called Lachlan. You have Jewel, who is always full of colour and an adorable energy. Jewel was definitely a favourite of mine. Lastly you have Cat and Justin: though the later you grow to hate. Cat was a favourite of mine, she had such a great character growth tale, going from someone who let her negative relationships keep her back from her dreams to owning her truth.
I really enjoyed the writing on this one, it was funny, adorable, dramatic and full of entertaining twists. It also has me wondering whether I need a bubbly bath at the next get together. I found the character relatable even though they were dreamers and dancers, they were flawed, constantly learning and growing as the pages went on. They are the family I would love to join.
The story also had some adorable relationships and you fell in love as the characters did. I would love for this to be a musical, I can just imagine all the powerful dance numbers and a very disco inspired playlist. Full of powerful, soulful lyrics to help amplify the characters finally owning their truths. Trust me, this is the on contemporary you need this summer, I really enjoyed it and I hope you do too.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews