The Northern Echo

Female First

That's Books

Darlington Today

This was a great read - it gave me goosebumps, laughs and tears! If you like variety, and twists & turns you'll enjoy this book. I'd thoroughly recommend you give this a go.

by Lisa Thornton

I couldn’t put the book down, every story was well drawn and her descriptive powers make one think that one was actually there. This to my mind is the best an author can achieve in their reader.
Having not long visited the Edinburgh Museum of Childhood with my Grandsons I felt that the description of the dolls gallery was spot on. My youngest Grandson actually walked into the gallery and promptly ran straight through because it unnerved him so. I also thought at the time that I would not have wanted to be there after dark.
Ms Bradley captured those feelings exactly.
The other stories had me captivated and many had the ring of truth about them.
Ms Bradleys’ work should be available for a larger audience and I for one cannot wait for the next Elaine J Bradley to be aired.

by Reader review

Thoroughly enjoyed this varied collection of short stories. I loved the way the author's skill with chosen use of descriptive language and detail; along with her personal passion shone through the pages, transporting the reader to the heart of each story/character/dilemma and plot.

I felt drawn in and completely engaged in the process; experiencing the full range of emotions as the writer cleverly invites the reader to problem solve or put their own perspective and life experiences to 'play.'

How often I was totally surprised as the story closed, or was left with a thought provoking decision to make as to the outcome.

Delightful book. A perfect Christmas gift for valued friends indeed!

by Carol

Entertaining and humorous.
Easy reading, always a twist in the tail!

by James Fryer

I was really interested in reading Elaine''s book when she told me that she was having a book published. This is the first time I have read a book where I know the author. I know that she loves dogs so the theme of most of the stories was not a surprise!
What was a surprise was the endings of most of the stories. The stories were all very well written, very descriptive where needed and gave the reader lots of information. Because I am of a similar age, lots of the stories, especially "The Museum of Childhood", brought back lots of memories of my own childhood. Then in "Flower Power", the titles of the songs mentioned, reminded me of dances I attended. I could continue like this with most of the stories.
For a first book, I highly commend Elaine and look forward to her next. The only adverse comment that I could say is that I was just getting into a story when there was the surprising twist and the story ended, but that's probably just because I am used to reading full novels of at least 180 pages. As a first book, I can understand that short stories was the way to start. How about a longer novel next?

by Val