Silent Sunday

Silent Sunday

 

Silent Sunday

Review – Throwaway by Heather Huffman

I downloaded Throwaway (sponsored link) as a freebie (special offer) based on the Amazon synopsis of Jessie Jones, a prostitute under the control of a pimp, Spence, who meets undercover cop, Gabe, who gives her an idea of a different future.

Heather Huffman wrote this book to throw a spotlight on the “Throwaway” teens who are abandoned by the foster care system at 18 to somehow try to make their own way in the world.

I found Jessie to be loveable character – she doesn’t apologise for her profession, feeling that she had no other options, but she’s not bitter, doesn’t make excuses and doesn’t blame anyone else for the beatings and other unpleasantnesses that go with her profession. She’s feisty, caring, plucky, protective of a young prostitute new to the business, and emerges as the heroine of the novel without emasculating the male characters.

I found all the characters interesting – even the detestable pimp! – and the romance was credible, avoiding being too fairytale/Pretty Woman by having it take time & effort to work through the inevitable issues. There was just one romantic scene that didn’t work for me (avoiding specifying as I try never to give spoilers!).

What I really liked about this book was the multiple layers to the plot – romance, intrigue, murder, tragedy, corruption, friendship and family. It kept me glued to the book and I finished it in a day.

If I had one criticism it would be that the final denouement felt a little rushed, and not as well-written as the rest of the book. I think the prostitution and human-trafficking aspects of the storyline are probably somewhat….sanitised….compared to the reality, but thoroughly enjoyed this book & applaud the author for dealing with such gritty subjects that most steer clear of.

Silent Sunday

Review: Lord Poppington’s Popcorn

I was recently asked if I’d be interested in reviewing a new premium popcorn released by Savoury and Sweet, and I accepted both with alacrity and with slight misgivings.  I’m a big fan of popcorn, but am currently following Weightwatchers and feared that calorific popcorn would play havoc with my weight loss.

I needn’t have worried!  At a mere 94-128 calories per pack (2PROPoints a bag), any of the 4 flavours make an ideal low calorie snack, and at 20g per bag, make for a generous portion which is ideal for picnics or packed lunches.

All 4 flavours are gluten-free and suitable for vegetarians, while 2 are dairy-free.

Chilli and Lime (contains milk constituents)

This flavour practically leapt out the box at me as being right up my street.  My first thought was that the flavours were milder than I expected, but of course chilli builds, and by the end of the pack, the popcorn had a pleasant tingle.  I love citrus flavours and was disappointed that the lime flavour wasn’t stronger.

Lightly salted

Salted popcorn is of course a timeless classic, and the saltiness was just right for a deliciously fresh tasting savoury snack.

Four Cheeses (contains milk constituents)

As with the Chilli & Lime, the flavour was milder than I expected, and perhaps my least favourite of the 4 flavours, but perfect for those who like low calorie cheesey snacks that avoid being too salty.

Sweet & Savoury

Barbados golden sugar and cornish sea salt are combined to give an absolutely delicious tang that gives new life to the old cinema favourite.  I absolutely loved this flavour, and it’s definitely going to become a staple in my lunchbox!

Lord Poppington’s is available from selected independant retailers and from Amazon.  You can find more information on Lord Poppington’s website, or you can follow them on facebook or twitter.

Silent Sunday