REVIEWS:BOOKS Obstacles To Young Love (Harper) David Nobbs 3/5 David Nobbs contribution to English comedy is far beyond question. Having written for the likes of Kenneth Williams, Frankie Howerd, Les Dawson and The Two Ronnies, Nobbs was also responsible for the unforgetabble “The Fall and Rise of Reginald Perrin”. Perrin was in fact an adaptation of his already popular novel. Now in his 75th year, Nobbs is still ploughing away. His latest contribution to the literary world is “Obstacles of Young Love”, a well-constructed deconstruction of the unexpected course of true love. Nobbs is without doubt a believer in one true love. From the outset it is clear that Timothy Pickering and Naomi Walls are meant to be together, in fact it is equally obvious that the pair will indeed end up in partnership but the road to love is never easy. Many things get in the star-crossed lovers (yes, he does make reference to Romeo and Juliet) way, but according to Naomi there are three principle issues: Steven Venables, a dead curlew and God. Seventeen year old Naomi Walls is an attractive aspirI Heart Paris (Harper) Lindsey Kelk 5/5 “I Heart Paris” is the third book in the “I Heart….” series written by children’s book editor Lindsey Kelk This time we follow heroine Angela Clark’s haphazard, and somewhat clumsy adventures in France’s capital city. For those readers who have not yet had chance to dip into the previous books in the series, there are enough hints of Angela’s previous escapades in New York and Hollywood to gain a full picture of “what’s been going on”, making this a successful stand alone novel, as well as an integral part of what will be a five book series. The books strap line “Angela is in the city of love – but romance is taking a nosedive….” summarises the book in one easy sentence as the likeable and quirky heroine deals with everything from a blown up suitcase, (goodbye Louboutins, sob), saboteur co-workers, and every girls worst nightmare, her boyfriends stunning ex-girlfriend who just won’t
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ing actress, whilst her teenager lover is an awkard Godfearing school boy who is about to take on his father’s trade, taxidermy. Soon after losing their virginity in a crumby hotel near Earl’s Court, the pair return to Coningsfield and announce their engagement. But Naomi breaks Timothy’s heart when she leaves him for Steven Venables. A series of coincidences later ensures that throughout their adult life Naomi and Timothy constantly meet. The humour is tepid and “Obstacles To Young Love” barely warrants the title of comic novel. Whilst both Timothy and Naomi’s journeys are entirely culpable, the lack of likeability in either lead prompts a nonchalance in the reader. Yet for all is flaws, there are times when “Obstacles To Young Love” is gripping reading. Sure the twists and turns are as predictable as the backing music on X Factor, but Nobb’s written style oozes a classical charm. Even if his central characters lack appeal, Nobbs ensures that hose who surround them are interest`ng enough to counteract any turn-off moments. “Obstacles To Young Love” is an easy read, Nobbs may not shine in his latest effort but it is still a solid contribution to his back catalogue. Jeremy Williams seem to go away! Kelk takes us through these series of misdemeanours with ease, each one making you root for Angela that little bit more and at the same time willing her to spot all her potential enemies as soon as you do! It is however her determination to see the good in everyone that endears her further to the reader, and has you turning each page a little faster in the hoping that everything will turn out alright in the end.
in tact!
With all the essential chick-lit ingredients, and the added bonus of the glorious setting of the city of love, this book is a must for all self-confessed chick lit fans. Not only will you finish with the same warm and happy glow you get from any deserving chick flick, there are enough Paris sights and sounds slipped in to make you want to jump straight on a plane (or train) and experience this city first hand, hopefully with your suitcase Kim Harrell