One Magic Moment book review

One Magic Moment is the latest offering by Lynn Kurland and it has become one of my favourites.

I've been a fan of Lynn Kurland and her novels since 2 years ago, when I have the good fortune of reading one of her books. I love her writing style, the witty dialogue, the swoon-worthy heroes and their lady loves, the clean romance, the wonderful backdrops in medieval and modern England, etc.

With so many novels under her belt and the de Piaget genealogy chart getting more complex, I can only hope she will keep writing and keep her readers entertained. The de Piaget family is definitely one of the highlights of her whole fantasy world.

Time-travel romance with medieval lords meeting modern-day ladies and vice-versa is one of my favourite themes, as with paranormal romance. Unfortunately, the bulk of this genre do not quite suit my tastes.

As discussed before in one of my reviews, while I like how the protagonists have their happily-ever afters in whatever time period, I find myself not liking those stories where the females decided to drop their lives in the present and go back in time with their love as much as those who stay in the present.

Perhaps, it's because I cannot imagine myself doing that, regardless of everything. I like the present and the modern too much to give them up.

That's why One Magic Moment is one of my favourite novels, Tess and John de Piaget stayed in the present, or Future as they called it. He time-travelled to the Future and meet Tess a few years after. Even though through some conspiracy which have them time-travelled back to the 13th century, John is willing to give up his life there and return to the Future, partly because he has grown accustomed to the perks of modern amenities.

Ahhh, this is definitely a most satisfying story I have read and there will be plenty more to come next year.

One Enchanted Evening book review

Finally! Montgomery got his own book! And his own ”fairy”! Besides, the cover art of Sedgewick is to be died for.
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I love all of Lynn Kurland’s time-travel romance novels and on top of that, Montgomery is one of my favourite characters since I read about him as side character in other novels. Needless to say, I am extremely thrilled to find out that he is to have his own story.
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I finished the novel as soon as I can and something hits me. As much as I love the novel, I feel that something is lacking. I guess I was looking forward to Pippa and Montgomery staying in the Future.-
For me, I don't think I can give up all the comforts of the modern life. Perhaps, because I am a Future girl and there’s no way I am giving up all I have. Or maybe, I feel that the girl shouldn’t always be the one giving up all she has to be together with a guy. But still, someone has to give in this sort of relationship.

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I would have loved it more if more emphasis is placed on Montgomery’s trip to the Future. The modern wonders and gadgets through the eyes of a medieval character should prove to be very entertaining and soul-searching if the author focuses on that.

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But, of course, the main plot revolves around the relationship of Pippa and Montgomery and so, this issue is just brought-across.-
It’s hard to have ultimate favourites when each and every novel is beautiful in its own way. My favourites are Another Chance to Dream, If I Had You, This Is All I Ask, To Kiss in the Shadows, Stardust of Yesterday. I figure that I like the ones best that have the 2 main characters stay in their Time.
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It too is getting confusing what with the number of characters appearing, visiting the Future and going back to the past. Phew.
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I can’t wait till next year for Lynn Kurland’s new book! It’s really awesome that she manages to stick to a schedule; that is to publish one novel per year. Isabelle and John’s stories are my most anticipated ones.

My Darlings

It's been some fine days since 27th May 2010. My friend is back in town for the summer and we met up after my classes on Thursday.
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We ate at NorthPoint and I finally received the long-awaited special edition New Moon DVD from Borders and Twilight Graphic Novel.

It feels great that I managed to get what I wanted from the States. I've yet to pay her back though. In total, it cost me S$70. Well, what can I say? It's worth it.
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On Friday, after my father returned home from his overseas trip, we left for Orchard Road.
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First, we went to a photograph exhibition outside Mandarin Gallery. It was titled "Biodiversity". Oh boy, the photographs taken are truly an inspiration for someone who likes to take photographs, like me, for instance. The winning entry is a masterpiece. It depicts a rare sight: an otter chasing after a crab in the waters off Sungei Buloh.
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There must be some activities going on at Orchard due to the sheer number of people thronging the streets. The start of the Great Singapore Sale and a public holiday must be contributing factors too.
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We managed to find a parking lot at Ngee Ann City and I went to collect my coveted book, One Enchanted Evening by Lynn Kurland.

I bought bedsheets at Takashimaya, however, I didn't really like the colours. I was further disappointed after I reached home and found out that only the pillowcase has the purple-striped pattern while the bedsheets is a off-white colour. I felt cheated. Thank goodness, I didn't bought the bolster-casing.
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It led to me thinking what's with the world of bedsheets designs nowadays. They are either in one colour tone which is too dull or in "loud" designs which is too bright. I can't find one that suit me.
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My taste reflects on my existing bedsheets which is my ultimate favourite. Not only is it soft and beautiful embroidered, it has flowers scattered here and there. It is sophisticated yet not too "old".
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We left Orchard with my aunt who is working there at around 8pm plus. Once I reached home, I immediately set to read One Enchanted Evening and read through the night till 1am. I finished the novel on Saturday afternoon. There will be a post on the review soon.

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Books & Buildings

Look at this lovely new book cover! I just went Woah! when I saw it. Clearly, it's Artane with that lovely strand of beach. Sigh.

Maybe, just maybe I may buy it for fun? Because this is not a new book at all, it contains 2 stories in one which I have already read before.

Yesterday, I made a trip down to Orchard with my brother to try my luck on getting my hands on One Enchanted Evening.

I knew Borders would not have it but I went to check it anyway. We bought drinks from Coffee Club and walked down to Kinokuniya at Ngee Ann City.

I was to make a reservation for the book. I didn't know know exactly what the person told me. She said that because it was the first time in print and just came out in the States, they don't know if their suppliers are getting the book or not. And they will contact me about it. But, it will take about 4 to 6 weeks for it to arrive.

What I am worried about is that I won't know it if they contact me on my phone. Last time, they called me twice and I didn't pick up because I was working. It was by sheer luck that I went down to check and found that my books had arrived.

I suppose I can recognise the number though. In my estimation, it won't take more than 2 weeks for the new book to arrive in Singapore. However, that goes my hope for ever getting it in time for my birthday.

See? That's why I lament living in a place far away from the happenings of the world, particularly USA. When there are good things going on, we're the "last" to receive it. If we ever want to learn more, we have to fly halfway across the world to get it with the air ticket being freaking expensive.

Yes, I know, there are advantages and disadvantages living in different countries.

Don't get me wrong. I do love Singapore. It's just that we are so backward in certain aspects, like entertainment. We may be ahead and con-current with world news but when it comes to entertainment matters, no way.

We can see it but we can't touch it. And it hurts.

After that, we took the Circle Line for the first time since its recent opening to Marina Bay. Boy, did we walk a long way from Promenade Station to Marina Square.

Met up with the rest of family at Dian Xiao Er for an early celebration of Mothers' Day.

Then, we walked down to The Helix. It's rather beautiful. Steel beams interweaving each other to form an overhead. As usual, there were lots of people all wanting to get a first look at the newly erected Marina Bay Sands.

It's just too bad that we didn't manage to get into the building since the narrow walkway was chock full of people and we ended up getting stuck. We did a U-turn and went back.

Ahh well, when everything officially open at June, we will go back.

We were all sweaty and tired. Actually, we wanted to have a drink at Coffee Club but there were no seats for us. We then went to Starbucks at Suntec City.

Went home afterwards and watched a few snippets of Lord of the Rings - The Return of the King. Even though I have watch it many times, I still can't get enough of the movie.

In Which We Talk of Books

If there is one thing I can't live without, it would be books. And chocolates and Internet and laptop and ice-cream...

Anyway, back to the main topic, which the title already displayed clearly.

Hooray for the industry! Not so much for my pocket. There are a couple of new novels coming out and I'm getting them! What else is new?


First of, surprise, surprise from Stephenie Meyer!

She is releasing a new novella titled "The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner". After a year or more hiatus, it's awesome she is releasing this. Although, this novella was written before Twilight was published. It is originally meant for the Twilight Guide but it's too long to be included, so, now it's a stand-alone.

I love the cover! Its matching cover with the rest of the Twilight saga books means that it is meant to be a collectible. I can't wait to read the darker side of the Twilight vampire universe. All we ever read was the good side and sometimes, the other side. This story does not have a happy ending, that I can say as much.

Some fans are not too happy about this piece of news. They wanted Midnight Sun. Me? I'm thrilled with whatever Stephenie gives. Of course, who doesn't want Midnight Sun? However, she is in no obligation to owe fans anything. I think some mistook that fact.


This is also Twilight-related. It's a graphic novel. There is two volumes to it and what I'm most thrill about is that I can finally see how the characters look like. Really. Non of that movie-'nonsense'. No Robert Pattinson look-a-like here.

It's here in Singapore but unfortunately, it's so expensive! I don't understand why. Amazon and Borders USA are selling it at US$11+, in Singapore, a freaking S$36+. Do the conversion and you will see that the bookstore is extorting us. Urgh. I now wonder if I should ask my friend to help me get it instead.

Last but the the least, the novel on my book watchlist, One Enchanted Evening by Lynn Kurland.

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Yay! I've been waiting for this for a long time. At first, it was to be Isabella's story. Now, apparently, it's Montgomery's. It's great though. He is one of my favourite characters in the De Piaget family.

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I can't wait till he met his 'fairy'! Love the book cover, it's of Sedgewick castle, the place where they met. It will be out on April 27th. I'll give it a few days to reach Singapore's shores and off to Kinokuniya!

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I sincerely hope the novel will be there. I'm going to get so angry and upset if there isn't.

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During the period of obsession with Kurland's novels, what I can find in the library database, I reserved and booked them with a small fee. I spent a not-so-small amount buying the others, even flying them in from overseas (without extra charges).

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All in all, I'm pretty pleased with myself. I managed to read most of her novels, except one or two.

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This is the novel not to be missed. Lynn Kurland is publishing a novel each year, at least that's her plans. I like people who have plans and stick to them.

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Actually, all these new books here are not to be missed. Alas for my funds then. Although, what's a little money in exchange for happiness and fantasies?

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This Is All I Ask book review

I finished "This Is All I Ask" by this morning, after reading it through the night until 12 midnight.

Bad, I know, since it's school day today. I just can't help it. A perfectly fine book awaits my attention, what am I to do?

Moving on to the plot, this novel is great as usual. This is definitely one of my many favourites.

Both Gillian and Christopher are so insecure with themselves and this is what makes this book works. I like the way their misunderstandings is explored and the interactions with the other characters.

I'll probably write more about my favourites when time is on my side, when is pretty non-existence as the week progresses. Too many things, so little time...

Simple pleasures of life

Ahhh! I missed my blog's anniversary once again.

Here's to 4 years and counting! Cheers!

When I have the time to write more, I'll look back at the past memories and have a good, old reminiscence.

For now though, it had been a good week for me. I'm not going to comment how school life has been because that is not the main point here.

I had the good fortune of borrowing "If I Had You" by Lynn Kurland in the school library on the first day back. Yay! Finished it over the course of 2 days, give or take 24 hours.

I quite like Robin and Anne's story.

I had reserved a copy of "This Is All I Ask" in the public library some weeks before and I picked it up today. It is mine for 2 weeks and it only costs $1.55. I am currently reading it and will probably savour it over and over again.

These 2 titles "A Dance Through Time" and "Much Ado In The Moonlight" are my latest acquisitions. Double Yay-ness! I'm so happy when it was a series of fate that brought me these novels in my possession.

So, a few weeks ago, I went to Kinokuniya to order in these 2 titles. I was told that they will be here in 6-8 weeks time. I thought, they could make a fine Christmas present.

I received a phone-call on Friday but my phone ran out of battery. It was a fleeting thought that maybe, just maybe, it was Kinokuniya who called me. Indeed, the 4 front numbers correspond with the number on the website. However, the last few numbers were not, so I wasn't too sure.

On Saturday, the same number appeared on my phone but I missed it. I tried to call back and no one picked up. Just my luck that my brother wanted to go to Borders. My father asked me to see if my books have arrive since Kinokuniya is a walking distance away. I didn't want to at first, since they didn't actually confirm with me, be it via e-mail or call.

Finally, I got my books and they did call me twice. Ha, what a story it had been. Have I not suspect it, have my father not asked me to check... Too many "what ifs" will likely caused me regret.

Besides, I'm pleased to say that I spent less on these 2 titles than what it would have cost me should I buy off the shelves. One off-shelf novel costs $17++, but I only paid $13++ for one title I ordered in. I don't see the maths behind it, however, I'm certainly a happy customer. I was grinning when I paid for them.

I'll have to slow down on my reading. Or else, I'll be left with no simple pleasures in life for a long while. It's perfectly fine to live in the fantasy world for just some moments.

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Ha, got my hands on it

Woohoo! I finally got my hands on Thirteen Chances by Cindy Miles! And it's all due to sheer luck and some perseverance.

Alright, so I haven't tried 13 times but I certainly did make useless trips to Kinokuniya and Borders.

Yesterday morning , I went to see the dermatologist at Novena medical centre with my father and than I left for Orchard while my father went to work.

I went traipsing from Borders at Wheelock Place to Kinokuniya at Takashimaya. My destination to be was actually Kinokuniya because I wanted to order some novels. Yes, I was planning to order in Thirteen Chances.

However, I decided to make a trip to Borders first. I don't know what prompt me to do that but it certainly was right. Searched for it under the new releases section to no avail. I was going to give up when I went further down the aisle to the Romance section and 'lo and behold!', 2 copies of Thirteen Chances are sitting on the shelf!

I was grinning to myself as I check the book for defects. Happily paid for it. Oh well, Borders may mark up the prices but I'm willing to pay a little more if it means I can get my books on the spot. I may be the customer and have every right to choose which bookstore to patronise but what's a girl to do when only one bookstore offers the coveted novel.

Walked to Kinokuniya and double-checked the shelves. Already I knew the chances of them to update their shelves are minimal, however, I can't help but to check again. No such luck.

Placed an order for two of Lynn Kurland's novels with the staff.

It felt good and at the same time, I felt a little guilty. To add to my defense, the only things in life I indulge in are branded ice-cream, chocolates and books and some other stuff. Besides, I just got my pay and I haven't treat myself for that traumatic experience, nevermind that I'm suppose to save all...

Went home and started reading Thirteen Chances. I'll do a review for it in another entry.

Of plans and books

What to update? Hmmm.

Nothing much going on, but to prevent the blog from being stagnant and breeding mosquitos, I'll make a post full of trivial stuff.

Recently, I've thought up of a phrase, "7 hours is long enough, 1 month will pass fast enough, 2 years will come soon enough". Funny how time works.

I'm not kidding when I said I'm going to Orlando, Florida, USA when I graduate from Poly. I don't know if people will take me seriously for what I say now but wait and see. Never had I been this determined to do something for myself, not even to get a higher-than-average GPA. This time, I'm perfectly serious and I've plans to show it.

Technically, it's not even 2 years because I'll graduate by Feb 2011 and there's only 18 months left. So far yet so near.

Already, I'm counting my finances but ultimately, all I can do is to earn and save. A trip to USA will be a bomb and don't even talk about the valuation and exchange rates when 2011 rolls in. My predictions is that US$ rate will go up and I deeply hope that S$ will strengthen in value by then.

One more resolution that I made today; to go for driving test in the next long holiday which is Feb 2010. By any chance, I'll get my driving license on the first attempt and will be free to drive my father's car. Oh, how I wish.

In the midst of making plans in the next 2 years to come, I've been sleeping, working, complaining, and of course, reading.

I just can't get enough of Lynn Kurland's novels! They are one the few great things that I discovered while on the hunt for good books. First is Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, second is Spirited Away by Cindy Miles, third has got to be Lynn Kurland's.

I remembered browsing at the Romance section at Borders and found one of her novels by chance. I didn't bought that title then but decided to take note of the author and searched for her books in the library. I wasn't certain if her books will be great and all.

Went to the library and only saw one the titles on the shelves. Ahh well, better than nothing. Sebsequently, I borrowed her other titles, one at a time. Frustrating but rewarding and makes things sweeter.

Then, came a time when I can't find the other titles besides the 3 I'd read. Went to Borders and Kinokuiya and ended up buying 3 titles over a period of time.

There are still many to look forward to! Recommended Stardust of Yesterday to the library and am pleased to say they took it into consideration and the title is currently in transit, whatever that means. I've already reserve it and am the first in line. Hopefully, I'll read it soon. Hahaha, what a fine chase it has been. I've checked Borders, Kinokuiya, contemplate whether to order from Amazon or Borders...

Unfortunately, the other remaining titles are not available in the library and in my school library as well. I've thought up of the what was at first a good idea I didn't consider. TP's library. Alas, there are only a few titles available and most of them I've already read.

Plan C will be to order in with the aid of Kinokuiya. At least, they don't change freight or extra costs, or so they tell me. I'm still thinking about it. If my longing gets worst, I'll do it.

For now, I'll wait impatiently for the next coveted novel: Thirteen Chances by Cindy Miles. It's really bad that people get to read it weeks ago but I'm still left hanging.

Back to Lynn Kurland's novels. Her novels are that wonderful and sweet with time travel romance! There are so many characters that inter-weave that it gives me a headache and I have to refer to the genealogy chart all the time. What made it worst is that although the books can be read independently, characters from other titles will make cameos and appearances. It's only one's nature to want to refer back to their stories and to know more than what they summarised.

As a result, I find myself borrowing the titles that I've read for a second time. Such is the workings of me. I'll need to re-read a book to check on details.

All in all, there are like 6 titles left for me to read, 1 of which I'll borrow when I go back to school, the others' futures are unknown. Possibly, I'll just go with Plan C. Makes everything easier.

It's hard to find good romance novels without all the explict "scenes". Lynn Kurland has got to be one of those rare authors who does that. Very PG rating. I highly recommended her titles, to be read in the sequence.

Gosh, I can ramble on and on about trivia.

F1 season is coming to town, yes! I may not be the greatest fan but I certainly enjoy F1 and its drivers.

Great day!

Had a great day yesterday! My mother was due for her eye check-up at Raffles Hospital after her surgery and I tagged along with my parents because I wanted to go to Borders and Kinokuniya.

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The check-up was surprisingly fast and we were on our way to Orchard at about 10 plus.
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We parked at Nee Ann City and I had a curry puff before walking to Ion Orchard to cross the underground linkway to Wheelock Place. I was feeling particularly like the tourists on the walk-way. The sun was not shining too brightly and the streets were quite empty for once. What a lovely feeling!
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This was my parents’ first time in Ion since my father hated crowds. The shops are opened and we decided to shop around later as I wanted to go Borders first. Had a hard time finding the linkway to Wheelock Place since this was only my second official time there.
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As usual, Borders fails to satisfy and amuse me. I’m beginning to feel irritate at it. The books I want are not available, even Thirteen Chances by Cindy Miles which was just released from USA. I get it that importation takes time but why can’t my wish came true?
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In the end, I bought a novel by Lynn Kurland, the only available title at Borders. I’m wondering if they ever take stock and update their collection. This is not funny at all. I asked about the special orders from overseas and it will cost me $6.90 extra for each book.
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Walked to Ion again, this time to do window-shopping. Love the feeling of spaciousness! Decided to do lunch at the so-called famous Food Mall. It was quite empty except for a few patrons as lunch time was still not here.


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Finally found what I’ve been looking for! Royce Chocolate brings back fond memories of the memorable trip to Hokkaido 2 years ago. I remembered visiting the shop in Hokkaido and my auntie buying and sharing the chocolate squares on the bus.

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Royce is tucked away in a small corner at B4 at Ion. The store is awash in blinding white and gives it a clinical yet pristine feel. The various types of chocolates are displayed prominently in glass squares.
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One of the staff served us and let us tried the Champagne and Bitter Nama Chocolates. It is heavenly. Bought a box of Bitter Nama Chocolates which cost $15 and is stored in this silvery material to keep it cool for 5 hours. I’ll try the other products next time. The Potatochip Chocolates looks delicious...

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S$115 (Not by scale)

S$115 (Not by scale)

(Not by scale)

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Did more window-shopping. Gazed in wonderment at the prices of the Swarovski crystals figurines at Swarovski. The lighting effects and the cuts of the crystals make it shine and dazzle. Of course, it makes my hands itch. I’ve a soft spot for cute things. A couple of the crystal figurines caught my eyes and I went squeal.

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Went to ThreeSixty Marketplace located at F4 of Ion. It was so cold in there. And it will no doubt make you feel colder when you see the prices of some of the fruits. $68 for a watermelon, anyone? How about $100+ bunch of the finest grapes from Japan?

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Walked back to Takashimaya and we went to Kinokuniya. I looked for my books and finally bought another novel from Lynn Kurland. That’s it. I’m reserving the other titles from the library in Singapore. No chance in getting Thirteen Chances.
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I asked the Information counter about it and was told it will be here in about 2 week times. Once again, I asked about the special orders and it will cost me no extra to import a book. Wow, Kinokuniya really went my book-O-metre.
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I’ll probably go back in 2-3 week times to see.
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Went to the food section at Takashimaya and bought drinks. The boxes at the various chocolate stores are so pretty and cute! I’d love to get my hands on them.
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Bought some vegetables from Cold Storage and went home.
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What a morning! It’s been quite some time that the 3 of us went out on a weekday, to Orchard no less. One of favourite places in Singapore. Window-shopping is better than none at all.

Ramblings for the day

Aww, semester 2.1 results are not out yet. To think that I spent the whole day and evening waiting in anticipation over it.

It's actually coming out tomorrow officially, but for the past 2 semesters, the results always came out one day in advance.

Tomorrow then, it will be the day of reckoning. If I get 3 As out of 5 subjects, I'll treat myself with something I've been eyeing for. For the Slytherin tie, I guess I'll wait till next semester's results.

It's been some lazy afternoons for me. Gosh, work starts again tomorrow afternoon. Oh, what joy. I can't last without an afternoon nap.

My mother went for an eye operation on Tuesday. This means that she can't work or cook or do anything in general. Cooking dinners will be passed to me.

It's kind of alright. I can cook some simple dishes on my own. It's just that dinner will start later than usual.

Went to the library to try my luck in getting the books I want, namely books by Lynn Kurland. I managed to get one. Oh well, better than none. I've been so angry at Singapore's libraries for a long time.

Found out that Cindy Miles has released a new novel called Thirteen Chances! Arghh! I want it!

I thought that since it's a newly released novel, it should be available at Popular. But no, I should have known it a long time ago. I shall look for it at Borders or Kino next week. Giving them more time to import the novel in.

Wanted to buy this book called Men in White. It's about the PAP rise to power in Singapore and all about the leaders, especially Mr Lee Kuan Yew. The assistant told me that only today it will be sold as they are catering for the pre-orders first.

So, I went back today to get the book. Managed to get it and it's my favourite hard-cover. It cost $36 plus, after a 15% discount. Will start it soon, when I finished my novel.

Did a gradient nail design for myself today. After looking through some nail designs tutorials, I tried it out. I used a white base with purple, glitter nail varnish. It looks pretty good to me. Soon, I'll get my green glitter nail polish and do a Slytherin design.

Am ill again! Why?! Is it me or the weather?

I'm aching all over, blocked/runny nose, sore throat (again!). All that is missing is Fever. I'm feeling really pathetic now. *Sighs*

Hopefully, I'll be better tomorrow...