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Party Games
I'm Vanessa Powell.
People think they know me because I'm famous. They think I've got the world at my feet and the husband every woman wants to marry.
But fame can be a lonely place and the perfect marriage even lonelier. Now someone's come into my life who makes me feel alive.
For the first time ever, I'm thinking about what I really want.
No matter what the consequences . . .
People think they know me because I'm famous. They think I've got the world at my feet and the husband every woman wants to marry.
But fame can be a lonely place and the perfect marriage even lonelier. Now someone's come into my life who makes me feel alive.
For the first time ever, I'm thinking about what I really want.
No matter what the consequences . . .
522 pages, Paperback
First published July 4, 2013
9 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
About the author
Jo Carnegie
7 books65 followersJo Carnegie lives in London and Cardiff. She spent her early career as a fledgling reporter on Bedfordshire’s Biggleswade Chronicle before working at more! and Glamour magazine, and most recently as deputy-editor of heat.
Jo has interviewed stars from George Clooney, Justin Timberlake and Will Smith to Posh and Becks and Kylie Minogue. She now writes features for heat and is the author of the Churchminster series which began with Country Pursuits.
Jo has interviewed stars from George Clooney, Justin Timberlake and Will Smith to Posh and Becks and Kylie Minogue. She now writes features for heat and is the author of the Churchminster series which began with Country Pursuits.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 6, 2017
I've not read anything by this author before but this certainly won't be the last as I found this to be a great read.
This story takes place in a market town called Beeversham. It's based on three main female characters called Vanessa, Fleur and Catherine. Plenty of secondary characters added so much more to the story.
Well written story with twists and turns that had me glued from start to finish. Loved it.
This story takes place in a market town called Beeversham. It's based on three main female characters called Vanessa, Fleur and Catherine. Plenty of secondary characters added so much more to the story.
Well written story with twists and turns that had me glued from start to finish. Loved it.
July 4, 2013
I had never read a novel before by Jo Carnegie, and so I was very much looking forward to reading this. I love discovering new authors that I have not tried before, and I was so pleased that I had the opportunity to read such a great book!
I really enjoyed this. In the town of Beeversham are many residents, some normal, every day people, some celebrities and some trying to make their way in life. We are introduced to some truly fantastic characters, each with their own agendas and problems. Will they all be able to have what they want and solve their problems?
The characters were very well written, I particularly enjoyed the mix of characters in the book, I liked that they all had different backgrounds and personalities, and that they all weren’t celebrities, that there were some everyday folk in the novel too. This mix was very interesting for me and made me want to read on as I wanted to see how they would go together and blend with each other. I particularly warmed to Fleur, her story really struck me and I looked forward to when she featured so that I could continue following her journey and progress.
I don’t want to give away too much but there is lots packed into this book! There are great characters, a compelling plotline, humour, sizzling moments, passion, celebrities, fun, drama and romance.
The story flew at a great pace, I found myself racing through chapters in a frenzy of excitement and curiosity at what would happen next. Jo Carnegie had grabbed my interest from the first chapter and I thoroughly enjoyed spending an afternoon with my head buried in this book. I would definitely recommend this so make sure you buy a copy!
I really enjoyed this. In the town of Beeversham are many residents, some normal, every day people, some celebrities and some trying to make their way in life. We are introduced to some truly fantastic characters, each with their own agendas and problems. Will they all be able to have what they want and solve their problems?
The characters were very well written, I particularly enjoyed the mix of characters in the book, I liked that they all had different backgrounds and personalities, and that they all weren’t celebrities, that there were some everyday folk in the novel too. This mix was very interesting for me and made me want to read on as I wanted to see how they would go together and blend with each other. I particularly warmed to Fleur, her story really struck me and I looked forward to when she featured so that I could continue following her journey and progress.
I don’t want to give away too much but there is lots packed into this book! There are great characters, a compelling plotline, humour, sizzling moments, passion, celebrities, fun, drama and romance.
The story flew at a great pace, I found myself racing through chapters in a frenzy of excitement and curiosity at what would happen next. Jo Carnegie had grabbed my interest from the first chapter and I thoroughly enjoyed spending an afternoon with my head buried in this book. I would definitely recommend this so make sure you buy a copy!
May 14, 2014
I really enjoyed this one which involved quite a large cast of characters from a village called Beeversham- involving politics, planning development issues, farming and family relationshops in equal measures. A new author for me- but I will look out for more of her books.
June 29, 2018
it is longer than it should be.... the first 200 pages should be removed..... i didnt even get where the plot line was going, or who are the main characters? i kept confusing the names for a long time..... the excerpt at the bqck of the book is misleading, out of three leading female character only the story of one is written at the excerpt..... Toward the end the story gets better and more concise
January 14, 2022
I feel so at home in Jo Carnegie's writing - the Churchminster series are some of my favourite books, and Party Games certainly lives up to them! It's almost a spinoff in a way, as one of the main characters, Catherine, is from Naked Truths.
Carnegie's books are always so fast-paced and fun, contrasting glamorous dream lives, big houses and happy marriages, with low income, struggling families, and scandalous affairs.
Party Games was such a wonderful read and I'm sad I only have one Carnegie book left!
Carnegie's books are always so fast-paced and fun, contrasting glamorous dream lives, big houses and happy marriages, with low income, struggling families, and scandalous affairs.
Party Games was such a wonderful read and I'm sad I only have one Carnegie book left!
September 9, 2018
3.5 stars. Het verhaal was een beetje traag en had wat korter gekund. Maar het einde was mooi.
March 28, 2014
A fairly easy read and once past the first few introduction chapters it maintains a good pace. Taking place in the market town of Beeversham the story centers around 3 main characters but has a good mix of secondary characters which are also strong and help the story keep shape and pace.
The story begins by introducing the reader to the main characters: Vanessa, Fleur and Catherine - each of these characters have their own challenges throughout the novel and Jo Carnegie makes each one believable and identifiable. Vanessa married to Conrad Powell an actor are the celebrity element of the town with Vanessa building up the Powell brand, Catherine ex editor of Soiree magazine now living a rather more subdued life in the country with her husband John, and Fleur struggling to keep her parents' farm going after the death of her mother and the decline of her father Robert.
Additional characters such as Beau Rainford the local playboy, his brother Felix local MP and his wife Ginny and a host of other characters who all play a part in the story are introduced early on. All of these are described well and fit into the overall story line; some good bits of humor prevent this from getting too heavy. The town has become a haven for the rich and famous and this element has moved into this once sleepy town causing changes to the local environment with plans for theme parks and additional housing creating a rift between the locals. In order to raise awareness of the big plans and changes proposed the locals hold a fundraiser in the town. Unfortunately there are other events happening in local areas and they need something to attract as many people as possible - one resident comes up with the idea of hosting a big charity game show based on television game shows such as I'm a Celebrity etc. This proves to be a fantastic idea and I was looking forward to this being a big part of the storyline but it was disappointing this didn't receive more focus in the book which is what I thought the title of Party Games referred to.
However this novel is about secrets and things not being what they seem on the surface, the games people play, hidden agendas and mixed emotions. Jo Carnegie takes the reader on a journey of her characters discoveries about who they are, what they want and what they are prepared to do to get what they want. People are not what they seem on the surface and it was interesting to see how these individual struggles panned out.
Vanessa Powell married to actor Conrad has her work cut out with him, spoiled, self centered and a bully she is drawn to Dylan who appears one day offering to do some gardening at her house and who she is instantly attracted to. The Powell's are all smiles and false love in front of the cameras but once the paparazzi have left and the interviews are over they are very different behind closed doors.
The next main character Catherine struggles with moving from London where she was once an editor of Soiree magazine to Beeversham where she is left licking her wounds after a career meltdown. Being a lady of leisure after having such a busy life she finds herself short tempered, bored and dis-satisfied with her situation and the whole thing is not helped when she sees the local celebrity Vanessa Powell ( the reason for her leaving Soiree) lives in the same town and is a constant reminder of all she has lost.
Then there is Fleur who is trying to keep the family farm going after the death of her mother while her father Robert falls deeper and deeper into depression taking solace in drink. The local playboy Beau Rainford has already bought some of their land and built a Manor house on it and Fleur is determined he won't get his hands on the rest of the farm.
All characters are woven together well and although quite predictable it is a good fun read with good story lines that keep the reader interested, amused and wanting to read to the end. This novel has good contrast between the rich and famous lifestyle and aspirations and that of ordinary people resisting change trying to hold on to what is important to them (or what they think is) and of course secrets and lies all good ingredients for an enjoyable read and a well deserved 4.5 stars from me.
The story begins by introducing the reader to the main characters: Vanessa, Fleur and Catherine - each of these characters have their own challenges throughout the novel and Jo Carnegie makes each one believable and identifiable. Vanessa married to Conrad Powell an actor are the celebrity element of the town with Vanessa building up the Powell brand, Catherine ex editor of Soiree magazine now living a rather more subdued life in the country with her husband John, and Fleur struggling to keep her parents' farm going after the death of her mother and the decline of her father Robert.
Additional characters such as Beau Rainford the local playboy, his brother Felix local MP and his wife Ginny and a host of other characters who all play a part in the story are introduced early on. All of these are described well and fit into the overall story line; some good bits of humor prevent this from getting too heavy. The town has become a haven for the rich and famous and this element has moved into this once sleepy town causing changes to the local environment with plans for theme parks and additional housing creating a rift between the locals. In order to raise awareness of the big plans and changes proposed the locals hold a fundraiser in the town. Unfortunately there are other events happening in local areas and they need something to attract as many people as possible - one resident comes up with the idea of hosting a big charity game show based on television game shows such as I'm a Celebrity etc. This proves to be a fantastic idea and I was looking forward to this being a big part of the storyline but it was disappointing this didn't receive more focus in the book which is what I thought the title of Party Games referred to.
However this novel is about secrets and things not being what they seem on the surface, the games people play, hidden agendas and mixed emotions. Jo Carnegie takes the reader on a journey of her characters discoveries about who they are, what they want and what they are prepared to do to get what they want. People are not what they seem on the surface and it was interesting to see how these individual struggles panned out.
Vanessa Powell married to actor Conrad has her work cut out with him, spoiled, self centered and a bully she is drawn to Dylan who appears one day offering to do some gardening at her house and who she is instantly attracted to. The Powell's are all smiles and false love in front of the cameras but once the paparazzi have left and the interviews are over they are very different behind closed doors.
The next main character Catherine struggles with moving from London where she was once an editor of Soiree magazine to Beeversham where she is left licking her wounds after a career meltdown. Being a lady of leisure after having such a busy life she finds herself short tempered, bored and dis-satisfied with her situation and the whole thing is not helped when she sees the local celebrity Vanessa Powell ( the reason for her leaving Soiree) lives in the same town and is a constant reminder of all she has lost.
Then there is Fleur who is trying to keep the family farm going after the death of her mother while her father Robert falls deeper and deeper into depression taking solace in drink. The local playboy Beau Rainford has already bought some of their land and built a Manor house on it and Fleur is determined he won't get his hands on the rest of the farm.
All characters are woven together well and although quite predictable it is a good fun read with good story lines that keep the reader interested, amused and wanting to read to the end. This novel has good contrast between the rich and famous lifestyle and aspirations and that of ordinary people resisting change trying to hold on to what is important to them (or what they think is) and of course secrets and lies all good ingredients for an enjoyable read and a well deserved 4.5 stars from me.
July 27, 2013
For the first few chapters of the book, I wasn’t really sure what it was going to be about. Whilst the blurb gives you a run down of the main characters, it doesn’t really give you an idea as to the story.
Party Games.
The lovely rural town of Beeversham has become a haven for the rich and famous but is still home to many who have lived there for years. This blend of inhabitants means that there’s a tug of war between keeping the town as it is, maintaining support of small, local businesses and farms and creating a tourist attraction to bring new jobs and wealth to the area.
The locals decide to hold a street party/fundraiser to raise awareness of the big plans to destroy their landscape. With other events happening in local areas, there isn’t much interest in their little fete until Henry Belcher suggests hosting a Big Charity Game Show in which they recreate game shows from TV.
What a brilliant idea!
Therefore I was a little disappointed that this didn’t receive more focus in the book, that these weren’t the Party Games the title refers to as there were bigger Party Games planned!
Catherine, who was once editor of Soiree magazine and lived the high life in London, moved to Beeversham after a major career catastrophe. Struggling to get used to her new rural lifestyle and being a lady of leisure, tensions are growing higher with her husband, John and it doesn’t help seeing local celeb Vanessa Powell around town, reminding her of why her life changed so dramatically.
Following the demise of local MP Jonty Fortescue-Wellington, Catherine receives a surprise phone call and then the Party Games really begin!
There are a whole host of characters in this book, which means quite a few different narratives to follow but Jo Carnegie manages it well and we’re given enough detail about each to not only know what’s going on, but to care what happens to each character.
There’s Fleur, who has lost her Mother and is attempting to keep the family farm going whilst her Father drinks through his depression. Neighbour Beau Rainford has already built on Fleur’s Grandparents’ land and looks to have his sights set on Fleur’s farm aswell. Beau’s older Brother, Felix and his Wife, Ginny are pillars within the community but hide their own secrets. Local celebrity couple Vanessa and Conrad Powell are all smiles for the cameras, but things are very different behind closed doors. Single Mother Lynette is trying her best to bring up troubled teenager Talia and is discovered having secret meetings with Beau Rainford. And just who is behind the Company looking to build the Ye Olde World theme park that so many of the residents are opposed to?
There are a few mild twists throughout this story, some harder to spot than others. Party Games squeezes a lot of story into it’s pages which makes it a busy read but it is enjoyable and often funny. You’ll find yourself all involved in the fight for right over wrong, hoping that these characters get the happy endings they deserve and will no doubt find yourself pleasantly surprised by some of the revelations.
My Rating 4/5 – With it’s rich v’s rural basis, Party Games is a bit like Emmerdale crossed with OK Magazine. Whilst I was disappointed that the brilliant idea of the local Charity Game Show didn’t turn out to be a major element in the book, this doesn’t stop this being a pleasant, often funny read with great characters and great ideas. Most importantly, Party Games teaches you to never judge a book by it’s cover. Definitely worth reading!
I received an Advance Reading Copy (ARC) from Random House Books in return for an honest review. I have not received payment for my review and all opinions given are my own.
REVIEW: Party Games (Me, Bookshelf and I
Party Games.
The lovely rural town of Beeversham has become a haven for the rich and famous but is still home to many who have lived there for years. This blend of inhabitants means that there’s a tug of war between keeping the town as it is, maintaining support of small, local businesses and farms and creating a tourist attraction to bring new jobs and wealth to the area.
The locals decide to hold a street party/fundraiser to raise awareness of the big plans to destroy their landscape. With other events happening in local areas, there isn’t much interest in their little fete until Henry Belcher suggests hosting a Big Charity Game Show in which they recreate game shows from TV.
What a brilliant idea!
Therefore I was a little disappointed that this didn’t receive more focus in the book, that these weren’t the Party Games the title refers to as there were bigger Party Games planned!
Catherine, who was once editor of Soiree magazine and lived the high life in London, moved to Beeversham after a major career catastrophe. Struggling to get used to her new rural lifestyle and being a lady of leisure, tensions are growing higher with her husband, John and it doesn’t help seeing local celeb Vanessa Powell around town, reminding her of why her life changed so dramatically.
Following the demise of local MP Jonty Fortescue-Wellington, Catherine receives a surprise phone call and then the Party Games really begin!
There are a whole host of characters in this book, which means quite a few different narratives to follow but Jo Carnegie manages it well and we’re given enough detail about each to not only know what’s going on, but to care what happens to each character.
There’s Fleur, who has lost her Mother and is attempting to keep the family farm going whilst her Father drinks through his depression. Neighbour Beau Rainford has already built on Fleur’s Grandparents’ land and looks to have his sights set on Fleur’s farm aswell. Beau’s older Brother, Felix and his Wife, Ginny are pillars within the community but hide their own secrets. Local celebrity couple Vanessa and Conrad Powell are all smiles for the cameras, but things are very different behind closed doors. Single Mother Lynette is trying her best to bring up troubled teenager Talia and is discovered having secret meetings with Beau Rainford. And just who is behind the Company looking to build the Ye Olde World theme park that so many of the residents are opposed to?
There are a few mild twists throughout this story, some harder to spot than others. Party Games squeezes a lot of story into it’s pages which makes it a busy read but it is enjoyable and often funny. You’ll find yourself all involved in the fight for right over wrong, hoping that these characters get the happy endings they deserve and will no doubt find yourself pleasantly surprised by some of the revelations.
My Rating 4/5 – With it’s rich v’s rural basis, Party Games is a bit like Emmerdale crossed with OK Magazine. Whilst I was disappointed that the brilliant idea of the local Charity Game Show didn’t turn out to be a major element in the book, this doesn’t stop this being a pleasant, often funny read with great characters and great ideas. Most importantly, Party Games teaches you to never judge a book by it’s cover. Definitely worth reading!
I received an Advance Reading Copy (ARC) from Random House Books in return for an honest review. I have not received payment for my review and all opinions given are my own.
REVIEW: Party Games (Me, Bookshelf and I
July 7, 2013
Wow! Wow wow wow! This truly was absolutely fantastic! I have never read anything by Jo Carnegie before I believe she will now be added to my list of favourite authors.
I am actually still reeling from all that happened in this story! I did not think so much could happen in one small town!
Although the back of the cover gives the reader the impression that the Story will be about Vanessa Powell, there are actually two other fantastic women that the story is focused around.
First there is obviously Vanessa: who appears to have it all, but is actually starting to find fame and fortune a lonely place to be.
Then there's Catherine: who has taken leave from her high pressure and high profile job of editor of Soiree magazine, but is not really taking to the lady of leisure lifestyle.
And then there is sweet, lovely Fleur: A Farmgirl, who's Dad's farm is severely struggling to stay afloat.
Three very different women all with their own unique problems, I loved all three of them! It was amazing that these three women all lived completely different lifestyles in the same countryside town of Beeversham. But although they lead very different lives on the surface, maybe they are not so different underneath?
Although Vanessa, Catherine and Fleur are the main characters of Party Games, there were so many other great characters! I particularly loved Renatta- Vanessa's housekeeper. She was actually hilarious with the things she came out with and she had me laughing out loud. I thought Jo Carnegie managed to write all these different characters stories really well and not once was I lost or confused in the story when she switched to another character.
There are definitely some great twists and turns in this story and even when you think you've got it sussed- Jo will surprise you yet again!
I don't want to say too much more as I do not want to give anything away of what happens in this brilliant story! I honestly could not put it down and had to keep reading to find out what was going to happen next!
This is a scandalous story of what goes on in the town of Beeversham and how you never really know what goes on behind closed doors and even when you think you know someone, they may not be the person you think they are!
I definitely definitely will be reading more from Jo Carnegie and you definitely should read this! I highly recommend!
October 30, 2015
As usual Jo Carnegie has delivered a book that brings to life the characters from yet another quirky village. The town of Beeversham is a small place but also lays claim to being home to some of the rich and famous. Vanessa Powell and her husband Conrad are one such couple. There are also additional characters such as Beau Rainford the local playboy, Beau’s brother Felix and his wife Ginny, Fleur and her Dad who live on a local farm, and Catherine, the once Editor of Soiree magazine and her husband and John. Now that may sound like a lot of characters (and that’s not all of them) but they all play a part in this story.
It was easy enough to get to know them all and what exactly went on behind closed doors. As the story gets past the initial ‘introduction’ stage Jo Carnegie starts launching all sorts of trouble onto the characters living in Beeversham. I really liked all the characters and found myself willing each of them to sort their lives out! There are plenty of threads to the story providing just enough drama, and plenty of moments that will have you laughing. Although the synopsis leads you to think that Vanessa Powell is the main character, each storyline and villager draws you in. Catherine’s story and character were actually my favourite although Vanessa drew a close second.
Jo has also introduced two men in the book, both whom I love! You have the naughty Beau who is adorable (even though he is a naughty Playboy), and then we have Dylan who is the Conrad's gardener. Although these two played a big part in the story, I couldn't help loving John who is Catherine's husband. As always in a Carnegie book, the men play just as big a part as the women of the village; and frankly a wonderful distraction from all the drama in Beeversham!
This latest release of Jo Carnegie’s was a brilliant read, but if I’m being totally honest the Churchminster series is still my favourite! I would love to see whether she will continue this village with a new series as some of the characters were brilliant, but you maybe didn't see enough of them! Although the Churchminster series pips this book to the post, if this were to continue I could see a brilliant series coming out of it. Although this isn't maybe my favourite JC book so far, it was certainly a brilliant and entertaining read as usual. This will keep you entertained from start to finish!
It was easy enough to get to know them all and what exactly went on behind closed doors. As the story gets past the initial ‘introduction’ stage Jo Carnegie starts launching all sorts of trouble onto the characters living in Beeversham. I really liked all the characters and found myself willing each of them to sort their lives out! There are plenty of threads to the story providing just enough drama, and plenty of moments that will have you laughing. Although the synopsis leads you to think that Vanessa Powell is the main character, each storyline and villager draws you in. Catherine’s story and character were actually my favourite although Vanessa drew a close second.
Jo has also introduced two men in the book, both whom I love! You have the naughty Beau who is adorable (even though he is a naughty Playboy), and then we have Dylan who is the Conrad's gardener. Although these two played a big part in the story, I couldn't help loving John who is Catherine's husband. As always in a Carnegie book, the men play just as big a part as the women of the village; and frankly a wonderful distraction from all the drama in Beeversham!
This latest release of Jo Carnegie’s was a brilliant read, but if I’m being totally honest the Churchminster series is still my favourite! I would love to see whether she will continue this village with a new series as some of the characters were brilliant, but you maybe didn't see enough of them! Although the Churchminster series pips this book to the post, if this were to continue I could see a brilliant series coming out of it. Although this isn't maybe my favourite JC book so far, it was certainly a brilliant and entertaining read as usual. This will keep you entertained from start to finish!
July 8, 2013
I have received a copy of this book from publisher in exchange for a review.
This is my first book by Jo Carnegie but after reading this one I am sure it won't be my last. Definitely.
There is just one thing that's bothering me and it is the blurb: why does it concentrate on Vanessa Powell only?
The book started a little slowly for me and I wasn't actually sure what is going to happen and what it is about. But then it took a pace. And how. I have put all my things to do away and spent my free afternoon reading, and I couldn't wait to turn the page to see what's going to happen.
There are many characters in this book and I was at the beginning a little confused, but then it has sorted itself. We have three main characters and a lot of others, connected with them and the plot. Because of the number of the characters there are many subplots in the book, but they are all wonderfully managed, they doesn't leave any questions opened and they are all really interesting. What is brilliant, is that all of them are so different. They all live in the same city but all of them lead different lives and not all of them are easy.
When some of the subplots are predictable, like this of Fleur and Beau or Catherine and John, there are many others that just took me on a journey full of unexpected turns and twists, dramas and scandals. I had a feeling that I am going to explode out of curiosity when I had to put the book away. The ending was really a surprise.
The writing flows, it's straight, engaging and involving. There is a lot happening but it is not overwhelming read, no, it had made me busy reading and enjoying it at the same time. It is not only about celebrities and their perfect lives but it is also about some very important but often forgotten things in life. Add some humour, sex and scandal and you have a great, great, great summer read. Highly recommended!
This is my first book by Jo Carnegie but after reading this one I am sure it won't be my last. Definitely.
There is just one thing that's bothering me and it is the blurb: why does it concentrate on Vanessa Powell only?
The book started a little slowly for me and I wasn't actually sure what is going to happen and what it is about. But then it took a pace. And how. I have put all my things to do away and spent my free afternoon reading, and I couldn't wait to turn the page to see what's going to happen.
There are many characters in this book and I was at the beginning a little confused, but then it has sorted itself. We have three main characters and a lot of others, connected with them and the plot. Because of the number of the characters there are many subplots in the book, but they are all wonderfully managed, they doesn't leave any questions opened and they are all really interesting. What is brilliant, is that all of them are so different. They all live in the same city but all of them lead different lives and not all of them are easy.
When some of the subplots are predictable, like this of Fleur and Beau or Catherine and John, there are many others that just took me on a journey full of unexpected turns and twists, dramas and scandals. I had a feeling that I am going to explode out of curiosity when I had to put the book away. The ending was really a surprise.
The writing flows, it's straight, engaging and involving. There is a lot happening but it is not overwhelming read, no, it had made me busy reading and enjoying it at the same time. It is not only about celebrities and their perfect lives but it is also about some very important but often forgotten things in life. Add some humour, sex and scandal and you have a great, great, great summer read. Highly recommended!
July 26, 2013
I received this novel from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
The entire time I was reading Party Games I felt like I was watching a guilty-pleasure marathon of my favorite Lifetime movies. I found myself thinking about the characters when I wasn’t reading, rather insanely wondering what was going on in Beeversham while I was cooking my family supper. The POV alternates (though not in a fixed pattern) between Vanessa, Fleur, and Catherine. Each of these women has unique challenges, and though I couldn’t actually identify personally with any of them, I very much enjoyed delving into their lives. You see a wide range, everything from virginal sweetheart Fleur –my favorite—to ultra-bitchy Vanessa, and let’s not forget the men! They run the gamut as well, and I couldn’t quite decide which I liked best; each was juicier than the next.
If you decide to read this novel, find yourself a good British slang website—you’ll need it. Also, at the risk of showing how fashionably challenged I am, I didn’t recognize many of the designer references. In fact, I was a bit frustrated with all the name dropping. They’re rich; I get it. I don’t need to know they’re wearing La Perla underwear. The number of characters introduced in the first few chapters and their lengthy backstories were overwhelming as well, but you will need all of those backstories eventually, and while it’s somewhat cheesy and predictable at times, overall, it’s still a good read.
A brilliant 4.5 stars!
The entire time I was reading Party Games I felt like I was watching a guilty-pleasure marathon of my favorite Lifetime movies. I found myself thinking about the characters when I wasn’t reading, rather insanely wondering what was going on in Beeversham while I was cooking my family supper. The POV alternates (though not in a fixed pattern) between Vanessa, Fleur, and Catherine. Each of these women has unique challenges, and though I couldn’t actually identify personally with any of them, I very much enjoyed delving into their lives. You see a wide range, everything from virginal sweetheart Fleur –my favorite—to ultra-bitchy Vanessa, and let’s not forget the men! They run the gamut as well, and I couldn’t quite decide which I liked best; each was juicier than the next.
If you decide to read this novel, find yourself a good British slang website—you’ll need it. Also, at the risk of showing how fashionably challenged I am, I didn’t recognize many of the designer references. In fact, I was a bit frustrated with all the name dropping. They’re rich; I get it. I don’t need to know they’re wearing La Perla underwear. The number of characters introduced in the first few chapters and their lengthy backstories were overwhelming as well, but you will need all of those backstories eventually, and while it’s somewhat cheesy and predictable at times, overall, it’s still a good read.
A brilliant 4.5 stars!
December 11, 2016
Really enjoyed this, sad that this is the last of Jo's books until she releases another.
Follows several storylines, lots of bonking in this one. People are not always what they seem.
My least favourite character was Caroline and Vanessa's hubby was a real dick.
Things are changing in the rural town, a theme park. No one knows who is actually behind the theme park, they think it may be Felix's brother, a reknown playboy with bags of money. Felix is the respectable lawyer of the town and on Council too.
Caroline is an ex editor with family issues, her mother killed her dad (or did she), trying for a baby with her lovely husband. She decides with Felix's help to go into politics (oh and she is friends with the PM.
Then there is Fleur who is trying her best to keep her family's farm operating and not sold off. She lost her mother and ever since her dad has drunk his sorrows away. She falls for Felix's brother in a big way.
Vanessa falls for her new gardener.
What will happen, will the theme park -olde Worlde go ahead or not?
Really enjoyed it.
Follows several storylines, lots of bonking in this one. People are not always what they seem.
My least favourite character was Caroline and Vanessa's hubby was a real dick.
Things are changing in the rural town, a theme park. No one knows who is actually behind the theme park, they think it may be Felix's brother, a reknown playboy with bags of money. Felix is the respectable lawyer of the town and on Council too.
Caroline is an ex editor with family issues, her mother killed her dad (or did she), trying for a baby with her lovely husband. She decides with Felix's help to go into politics (oh and she is friends with the PM.
Then there is Fleur who is trying her best to keep her family's farm operating and not sold off. She lost her mother and ever since her dad has drunk his sorrows away. She falls for Felix's brother in a big way.
Vanessa falls for her new gardener.
What will happen, will the theme park -olde Worlde go ahead or not?
Really enjoyed it.
September 11, 2013
when I saw this book was coming out I was a bit worried, I love Churchminster and was worried I wouldn't enjoy this new book with unknown characters but I was so wrong! From the moment I picked up this book I was hooked, I loved the new characters and felt like I was welcomed into the town and faced their troubles with them. can't wait til Jo's next book and hope we can visit Beeversham again someday!
November 15, 2014
This book was ok, but there was so much going on with the different characters from one town, at times I was left confused.
Some of the plot was bizarre, especially the pretty women part
The book lacked a spark that makes you unable to put it down, normally I can read a book in a week, this took a month and I had to push myself to finish it
Would make a good chill out holiday read
Some of the plot was bizarre, especially the pretty women part
The book lacked a spark that makes you unable to put it down, normally I can read a book in a week, this took a month and I had to push myself to finish it
Would make a good chill out holiday read
August 16, 2013
Although I loved churchminster a lovely new village to bring the new characters to life. Sometimes predictable but a must for any Jo Carnegie fan!
August 24, 2013
Not nearly as good as jo's other books!! :(
October 23, 2013
Very much enjoyed this book. Good story and likable characters.
January 21, 2014
Couldn't put it down, read it in two days!
January 12, 2014
This is the first Jo Carnegie novel I've read, but def not the last .An easy going book, fast paced, and a real page turner if you want a good easy Summer read, then this is the book for you!
Read
June 13, 2015Didn't get into it until about half through when Jo's writing really shone through. I was racking my brains about the Catherine Connor connection for ages.
April 13, 2016
Thought this was terrible, so much so that I only read half of it & gave up. Poorly written, boring, predictable & cheesy! Not to mention full of stereotypes. Definitely not for me!
November 17, 2013
I loved this one, didn't get the twist until the end
April 3, 2014
I like all her books. this was a fantastic read. great characters
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