My Bookish Chat

Curling Up With A Good Book: My Quest For The Perfect Winter Read

Curling Up with a Good Book: My Quest for the Perfect Winter Read

While my friends in the Northern Hemisphere are posting photos of flower blossoms and spring gardens, here in the Southern Hemisphere we're settling into the second month of autumn. And let me tell you—winter isn't just coming; it's practically knocking on the door. The mornings have developed that particular crisp bite that makes you want to stay under the blankets just five minutes longer, and the afternoons have become a symphony of rain against the windows and cool winds that rustle through trees already shedding their summer coats.

As Edith Sitwell once wrote, "Winter is the time for comfort, for good food and warmth, for the touch of a friendly hand and for a talk beside the fire: it is the time for home." I couldn't agree more. Lately, my thoughts have been drifting toward that perfect stack of books to see me through the coming winter months—stories that will make those evenings by the fire feel like little portals to somewhere magical.

I'm finding myself torn between three very different reading moods, and I wonder if you can relate?

First, there's the undeniable appeal of cosy mysteries—the kind where the murder happens off-screen, the detective is probably a baker or a librarian, and the resolution comes with a cup of tea and a sense that all is right with the world. There's something deeply comforting about puzzles that get solved neatly within three hundred pages while the rain lashes against the window outside.

But then my adventurous side kicks in, craving something with a bit more pulse-quickening excitement. I'm talking Indiana Jones-style adventures—lost artifacts, ancient temples, narrow escapes, and protagonists who definitely aren't following health and safety protocols. When the weather outside is gloomy, there's something deliciously rebellious about living vicariously through characters who are swinging across chasms or outrunning boulders in places where the sun is definitely shining.

And finally, there's the siren call of young adult fantasy—think Percy Jackson energy. You know the type: fast-paced, emotionally honest, with just enough magic to make you believe that anything is possible. Maybe it's the nostalgia, or maybe it's that YA novels have this incredible ability to wrap you up completely in another world before you've even finished the first chapter.

As Jhumpa Lahiri beautifully put it, "That's the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet." That's exactly what I'm after—something that allows me to step out of my living room and into someone else's reality while still enjoying the warmth of the fire.

Stephen King called books "a uniquely portable magic," and right now, I'm searching for that particular spell—the one that makes a cold winter evening feel like the perfect adventure rather than something to endure.

So here's where I need your help, dear readers. What are you planning to read as the temperature drops? Are you team cosy mystery, team high-stakes adventure, or do you have something completely different lined up? I'm wide open to suggestions that will make those fireside evenings absolutely unforgettable.

Drop your recommendations in the comments—I can't wait to discover what worlds you'll be visiting this winter!

Stay warm and happy reading,

Dee Williams

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Learning Of Our Past Through Books

Of all the genres I’ve ever dipped into, the one that truly captures my imagination time and again is historical fiction. There’s something incredibly special about a story that doesn’t just tell a tale, but transports you directly into the heart of a bygone era. For me, the magic lies in a narrative that’s masterfully intertwined with a well-researched, proven historical background. It’s the perfect blend: the emotional pull of fiction grounded in the fascinating truth of what actually happened.

I find myself most captivated by those epic series that you can just fall into, book after wonderful book. It’s like taking a long, immersive vacation into the past. One such journey I’m currently on is with The Australian Series by Vivian Stuart, writing under the pen name William Stuart Long. This epic set of 12 books is an absolute treasure, especially if you have any interest in the rugged, compelling history of Australia. I’m reading through them slowly, savoring each chapter a little at a time. They are just that good. The way Stuart weaves the lives of her characters into the real events of Australia’s founding—from the convict ships to the frontier struggles—is utterly absorbing. It feels less like reading and more like time travel.

Another collection that sits proudly on my shelf is Dana Fuller Ross’s Wagons West series. Twenty-four books charting the pioneering days of America! If you’re a history buff with a soft spot for tales of determination and adventure, these are perfect for you. Ross has a knack for making you feel the dust of the trail and the hope in a settler’s heart as they journey westward. It’s a monumental undertaking that makes history feel immediate and alive.

As the renowned historian David McCullough once said, “History is who we are and why we are the way we are.” I believe that’s exactly what great historical fiction does—it connects us to that ‘why’ through the powerful lives of characters we come to care about. These series do more than just recount events; they give you a stake in the outcome. You cheer for the pioneers, you understand the struggles of the convicts, and you gain a profound appreciation for the moments, big and small, that shaped nations.

So, if you’re looking for your next great read, consider diving into one of these sprawling, meticulously researched series. There’s no better way to walk in the footsteps of those who came before us. Happy reading!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finding Friendship in a Haybale Home: The Joy of Writing The Adventures of Percy and Petunia.

There’s a certain magic that happens when you close your eyes and imagine a world where kindness is the default, adventure is around every corner, and the greatest treasure is a circle of good friends. As a writer, I’ve always been drawn to these cosy, comforting worlds, and I’m thrilled to be back with my second children’s book, The Adventures of Percy and Petunia.

This new story was born not long after I published The Adventures of Chokoes, and I have to say, I enjoyed writing it just as much. Why? Because I absolutely adore the idea of different animals setting aside their instincts, becoming the best of friends, and creating a warm, comfortable community they can call their own. It’s a simple, hopeful vision that I believe resonates deeply with young readers (and let’s be honest, with the young-at-heart, too!).

So, allow me to introduce you to the charming world of Farmer Giles’s farm.

Meet Percy, Petunia, and Their Unlikely Crew

Our story follows the delightful sister and brother duo, Percy and Petunia Pig. They don’t live in a muddy stie; oh no! They are the proud owners of a charming haybale home, tucked right in the back of a huge red barn. Their little corner of the world is in a quiet farmyard in the peaceful countryside, owned by the kindly Farmer Giles and his wife.

But what’s a home without friends to share it with? Percy and Petunia are blessed with wonderful companions, each with their own unique personality:

Croak: A playful, young green frog who is always ready for fun from his post in a small, lily-pad-covered pond nearby.

Tiny: A gentle, light brown mouse who, much like Percy and Petunia, calls the cosy barn his home.

Puss: A wise old tabby cat who proves that stereotypes are meant to be broken. As the official farm pet of Mister and Missus Giles, Puss is a loyal and protective friend to all.

Together, these five friends form a tight-knit group. Nearly every day, they find new ways to enjoy each other’s company, exploring their safe farmyard setting and turning ordinary days into extraordinary memories.

A Story for Young Imaginations

The Adventures of Percy and Petunia is crafted with young children in mind. It’s a gentle story that focuses on:

The Beauty of Friendship: It celebrates how friends can look different, come from different places, and still find common ground.

A Safe and Cosy Setting: The farmyard is a peaceful haven where curiosity is encouraged and everyone looks out for one another.

Simple Joys and Adventures: The plot finds wonder in everyday activities, teaching children that you don’t need to go far to have an exciting day.

It’s the perfect bedtime story or classroom read-aloud to soothe little ones and fill their dreams with visions of haybale homes, froggy ponds, and the unwavering strength of friendship.

I poured my love for these themes into every page, hoping to share a little bit of comfort and joy with your family. I can’t wait for you and your little readers to meet Percy, Petunia, and their wonderful friends!

Find The Adventures of Percy and Petunia on the Barnes & Noble website today!

*What kind of animal friendships do your children  love to read about? 

Share your thoughts in the comments below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Holiday With A Good Book

There’s something almost magical about that quiet moment on holiday—when the kids are building sandcastles further down the beach, your partner has wandered off to browse the little seaside bookstore, and you find yourself alone with nothing but the rustle of pages and the rhythm of the waves. That’s when I reach for my favourite book.

Honestly, I can’t imagine a proper holiday without one. Whether I’m sprawled on a towel by the pool, curled up in a hammock under a palm tree, or sitting cross-legged in my tent during a camping trip, a good book is my constant companion. It’s not just about passing the time—it’s about slipping into another world, even if just for an hour or two.

Give me a thick, satisfying novel—something by Nora Roberts or Sara Donati—and I’m in heaven. I love how Roberts can weave romance, mystery, and family drama into one sweeping narrative, so vivid I can almost smell the ocean spray from her Irish villages or feel the chill of a winter storm in the Appalachians. And Sara Donati? Her historical fiction pulls me into frontier New York with such rich detail, I forget I’m in flip-flops sipping iced tea under the sun.

Or sometimes, I lean into the cosy mysteries—gentle whodunits set in quaint English villages or New England towns. No blood and gore, just clever puzzles, eccentric characters, and a cup of tea that’s always perfectly brewed. There’s comfort in knowing the world inside the pages will be set right again by the final chapter.

“A book is a dream you hold in your hands.” – Neil Gaiman

That quote always comes to mind when I’m reading on holiday. It’s true—books are portable dreams. They carry me away from sunblock reapplications and swim noodle negotiations and into lives far more dramatic, romantic, or mysteriously compelling than my own. And really, isn’t that part of the magic of a holiday? To escape a little?

I love those stolen moments most—the ones no one else claims. When the world slows down, and all that exists are the characters whispering their secrets to me between the lines. A seagull might squawk overhead, or the breeze might turn a page for me, but I barely notice. I’m too deep into nineteenth-century medicine practices or a murder at a vineyard wedding.

People often ask, “Aren’t you bored just sitting and reading?” But it’s not boredom—it’s bliss. It’s mindfulness, really. The sun on my skin, the scent of salt and sunscreen, and the quiet hum of a story unfolding. It’s being present while journeying somewhere entirely different.

“I have always imagined that Paradise will be a kind of library.” – Jorge Luis Borges

If paradise is a library, then a holiday with a good book is a little slice of it. I don’t need constant entertainment or a packed itinerary. Just me, my novel, and that perfect patch of shade. Some of my happiest memories aren’t of grand sights or fancy dinners, but of finishing the last page of a beloved book and looking up, surprised to find the sun had set while I wasn’t paying attention.

So if you see me off on holiday, sunglasses on, book in hand, hair slightly tangled from the wind—don’t worry. I’m exactly where I want to be. Somewhere between the real world and a story I’ll miss long after the last page.

Happy reading, and even happier escaping.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The End of the World (But Make It Natural)

I have a confession to make: I’m absolutely obsessed with watching civilization crumble. Not in real life, obviously—that would be terrifying. But give me a good post-apocalyptic novel where Mother Nature has finally had enough, and I’m instantly hooked. There’s something deeply fascinating about stories where natural disasters have swept through the world before the devastation even settles, leaving humanity to pick up the pieces.

I’ve spent countless hours devouring these narratives, and I’ve often wondered why they captivate me so completely. Maybe, as I like to tell myself, it’s simply “a learning curve as to what not to do” when everything falls apart. Or, if I’m being completely honest, maybe “I’m just a little bloodthirsty.” There’s a raw, psychological intrigue in watching how ordinary people respond when the grocery stores are empty, the power grids fail, and the familiar rhythms of daily life dissolve into survival mode. It’s not about the destruction itself—it’s about the resilience, the mistakes, and the surprisingly tender moments that emerge when people are stripped down to their essentials.

Over the years, I’ve developed quite a roster of go-to authors who understand exactly how to craft these cataclysmic scenarios. Boyd Morrison and Dewey Gram both have this incredible knack for grounding their disasters in scientific plausibility, making the horror feel just one earthquake or superstorm away from reality. Then there’s Cormac McCarthy, whose sparse, haunting prose in books like The Road captures the bleakness of environmental collapse with devastating beauty. His landscapes aren’t just settings; they’re characters in their own right, reflecting the barrenness of hope itself.

And yes, I’ll admit it: I’m not a complete Stephen King fan, but I absolutely loved The Stand. Was it quite long? Absolutely. Did I check how many pages were left every few chapters? You bet. But there’s something about King’s exploration of humanity forming new societies from the ashes of a wiped-out civilization that kept me turning pages well past my bedtime. The human drama, the moral questions, the way communities splinter and reform—it’s storytelling that lingers.

Now, here’s where I have to draw my line in the sand: I am definitively not a zombie fan. I know, I know—zombies are practically synonymous with apocalyptic fiction these days. But for me, they’re just “too gory, and unappealing.” Sorry to the many zombie fans out there! I find that the shambling undead often overshadow the more interesting questions about human nature. Give me a supervirus triggered by melting permafrost, or a series of catastrophic earthquakes reshaping continents, or a climate event that sends us back to the Stone Age. I want to see how people garden when the seasons stop making sense, or how they negotiate when money becomes meaningless. That slow-burn catastrophe feels more terrifying—and more educational—than any horde of flesh-eaters.

There’s an odd comfort in these stories, I think. They remind us that humans have survived ice ages, volcanic winters, and plagues before. When I close the book, the world outside feels a little more precious, the running water a little more miraculous, and the quiet hum of electricity a genuine luxury.

So if you’ve ever found yourself fascinated by the “what ifs” of natural disasters and human resilience, I’d love to hear your recommendations. Just do me a favour: keep the zombies to yourself. I’ll be over here, happily stockpiling mental notes on what not to do when the next big one hits.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Labour of Love: Why I Wrote a Book for a Dog I Hardly Knew

When I first arrived in Australia nearly 22 months ago, everything felt new and wide open. You know that feeling when you move to a new place and your brain suddenly starts firing in directions you never expected? For me, it wasn’t a sudden urge to learn surfing or master the barbecue—instead, I suddenly had the urge to try writing a book for children.

It was one of those creative itches that you just have to scratch. But I didn’t want to write just any story; I wanted to write something that meant something.

The Inspiration Behind the Words

The heart of my book came from a very real, very special source. I chose a story that, while fictional, was based on a small Shih Tzu dog I had the pleasure of knowing. Our time together was brief, but his impact was massive. Sadly, not long after we met, he passed away from cancer.

Even though our acquaintance was short, “he touched my heart in a very big way.” In his memory, I decided to put pen to paper and bring his spirit back to life through a series of short stories.

The World of Chokoes

I titled the collection The Adventures of Chokoes: The Shih Tzu With The Big Heart. I wanted to capture the essence of his world, so I set the stories in the beautiful, breezy coastal town where he lived.

The book wasn't just about him, though; it was about his entire "pack." I wrote about his relationship with his human ‘Dad,’ his various animal friends, and his ‘Dad’s’ girlfriend. I dove deep into his world, imagining a variety of adventures where this little dog with the massive personality played the starring role.

Honestly? I really enjoyed writing the stories within, and would write another about him if I could. There is something incredibly therapeutic about channelling grief into creativity. It felt like I was keeping his memory alive with every chapter I finished.

The Reality of the "Indie" Author Life

I’ll be the first to admit that the publishing world is a tough nut to crack. Once the book was out there, the reality of the market set in. Unfortunately, sales were not very good at the time, as the book was a tiny little piece of literature lost among millions of more famous ones.

Between the sheer volume of books being released every day and my own lack of publicity, it didn't exactly climb the bestseller charts. It’s easy to feel a bit discouraged when the numbers don't match the effort you put in, but as I look back on it now, I realize that sales were never really the point.

No Regrets

Despite the quiet sales, I don’t look back on the project with any bitterness. I have not regretted writing it, as it reminded me of the dear little dog that I wrote about.

Writing this book was a personal journey. It was a tribute to a friend who couldn't stay long enough, and a way for me to process my first few months in a new country. It taught me that sometimes, the value of a project isn't measured in royalties or rankings, but in the heart you put into it.

The Adventures of Chokoes: The Shih Tzu With The Big Heart may not be a household name, and it may not be read by every child across the globe. But that’s okay. Because for those of us who knew him, Chokoes will never be forgotten. He was exactly who he was—a little dog with a very big heart—and now, he has a permanent place on the bookshelf to prove it.

Have you ever started a creative project just for the sake of a memory? I’d love to hear about your "labours of love" in the comments! Thank you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Tribute to Non-Fiction: Immersive Tales of Real-Life Adventures

There's something undeniably captivating about delving into the true stories of others. Fiction will always hold a special place in my heart, but non-fiction has a way of drawing me in, transporting me to new worlds and experiences that might otherwise remain out of reach. Recently, I've had the pleasure of reading one exceptional non fiction book (Tim's), and the other I am still reading (Harry's), that perfectly encapsulate the allure of this genre - The Accidental Farmer by Harry Kavros and Island Home: A Landscape Memoir by Tim Winton.

The Accidental Farmer chronicles Harry Kavros' journey from city dwelling to country living, as he and his family embark on a bold new adventure to operate a rural farm. What strikes me most about this book is the genuine, unfiltered voice of the author. As I turn the pages, I feel as though I'm sitting across from Harry, sharing in his triumphs and tribulations, his laughter and tears. His writing is raw, relatable, and infused with a deep affection for the land and the people who inhabit it.

Similarly, Tim Winton's Island Home is a masterful tribute to the Australian landscape and the soul-stirring connection we can forge with the natural world. With each carefully crafted sentence, I found myself standing alongside Tim, breathing in the salty sea air, feeling the warmth of the sun on my skin, and marvelling at the untamed beauty that surrounded us. His words paint a vivid picture, immersing the reader in a world that is at once familiar and yet, utterly enchanting.

Both of these books remind me why I adore non-fiction so deeply. They offer a backstage pass to the lives of others, allowing us to experience their joys, struggles, and the profound insights they've gained along the way. In the world of fiction, we often encounter characters who are, by definition, fictional creations. But in non-fiction, we're confronted with real people, facing real challenges, and emerging with stories that are both humbling and inspiring.

As I closed the cover on one of these remarkable books, and continue to read the other, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the authors who shared their tales with such vulnerability and passion. The Accidental Farmer and Island Home are more than just stories - they're invitations to explore, to dream, and to find common ground with others who have walked similar paths.

So the next time you're browsing the shelves or scrolling through your favourite e-reader, I encourage you to give non-fiction a try. You never know where it might lead you - to the heart of a bustling farm, the wild expanse of an Australian outback, or perhaps to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A Trip Down Memory Lane: My Favourite Childhood and Teen Reads

 

As I sit here with my morning coffee, a nostalgic smile washes over my face as I reminisce about my childhood and teenage years, filled with the joy of losing myself in beloved books. Enid Blyton's works were an integral part of my literary journey, igniting a love for adventure and imagination that has stayed with me to this day.

Who could forget the thrill of following the intrepid Famous Five – Julian, Dick, Anne, George, and Timmy the dog – as they embarked on daring escapades? Or the Secret Seven, touting their catchphrase 'Hurrah for the Secret Seven!' as they unraveled mysteries and outsmarted villains? These stories sparked my curiosity and fed my appetite for excitement and suspense.

Trixie Beldon, the cozy kids' series with its wholesome charm and entrepreneurial heroine, also captured my heart. Her passion for helping animals and running a business resonated with my own developing interests. It's no surprise that Trixie's adventures helped shape my own aspirations.

As I entered the realm of young adulthood, a new set of heroines emerged to inspire and captivate me. The stalwart and clever Nancy Drew, with her sleek roadster and quick wit, became my role model. Her determination to solve mysteries and prove herself in a male-dominated world was a potent motivation.

Sue Barton, the Student Nurse series, also made a lasting impression during this period. Following Sue's journey from a naive young student to a confident, compassionate nurse, I gained valuable insights into the importance of hard work, empathy, and perseverance.

To further satiate my thirst for reading material, my parents would often treat me to the Girls Annuals, a treasure trove of shorter stories, articles, and illustrations catering to teenage girls. Each week, I'd eagerly await the arrival of my latest instalment, immersing myself in tales of love, friendship, and empowerment.

These beloved books not only provided endless hours of entertainment but also played a significant role in shaping my identity, values, and aspirations. They introduced me to courageous, intelligent, and resourceful heroines who embodied the qualities I strived to emulate. As I look back, I'm grateful for the escapades, lessons, and memories these stories have gifted me.

So, as I close this chat and reflect on the formative power of literature, I'm reminded that the magic of these childhood and teenage reads still resonates within me. They instilled a love for storytelling, strengthened my sense of self, and equipped me with the tools to navigate life's challenges. As I continue on this journey, I carry the spirit of my favourite heroines with me, forever changed by the enchanting worlds they showed me.

"Books are a uniquely portable magic." - Stephen King

Indeed, the pages of these timeless tales hold a magic that transcends time, transporting us to realms of imagination and self-discovery. As we embark on new chapters, may we cherish the lessons and adventures of our youth, letting them guide us towards a brighter future.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

My Favourite Reads and Reading Rituals

There's nothing quite like curling up with a great book and losing yourself in another world. As a book lover, I cherish the time spent turning pages and discovering new stories. In this post, I'll share some of my favourite books across various genres and reveal my preferred reading times of the day.

Favourite Fiction Picks

Historical fiction is a particular weakness of mine. I adored Sara Donati's Into The Wilderness, a masterpiece that brings colonial New York state to life in vivid detail. As Sara Donati so poetically writes, "When it's right, it's never too late, when it's wrong, it's always too soon." 

This resonates with me, as a good novel often makes me feel like a keen observer, captivated by the journeys of fictional characters.

Contemporary fiction also holds a special place in my heart. Celeste Ng's Little Fires Everywhere is a stunning exploration of family, identity, and the secrets we keep. Ng's prose is evocative and nuanced, illuminating the complexities of human relationships. As she writes, "We may try to hide from our true selves, but eventually, the truth comes out, whether we want it to or not."

Autobiographies offer a unique window into the lives of remarkable individuals. One such book was The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank. 

 Reading Rituals Revealed

While I enjoy reading at any time of day, some periods stand out as particularly magical. There's something about the early morning hours that invigorates my mind and sets the tone for the day ahead. As the world stirs to life outside, I savour a cup of tea and dive into my book, feeling like I'm starting anew each day.

Night time reading sessions are also a delight, usually accompanied with a satisfying cup of tea. Snuggled up in bed, these moments become mini-escapes, allowing me to temporarily forget the responsibilities of adult life and immerse myself in the world of the written word.

I often revisit a favourite book or try a new one, wind down reading style. The soft glow of a lamp, the quiet of the evening, and the anticipation of sleep make for the perfect ambiance to unwind and reflect on the story's themes and characters.

Book Chat and Recommendations

If you ever have a question about a particular book or an author's work? I'm always happy to share my thoughts and recommendations. Whether you're looking for a historical epic, a heart-warming contemporary tale, or a memoir that will leave you in awe, I'm here to help you discover your next great read.

Reading is a journey, and I'm excited to continue exploring the endless possibilities that books offer. Join me in celebrating the joy of getting lost in a good story and finding solace in the company of fictional friends.

Happy reading, and let's chat about our favourite books!