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Discover lifestyle reviews and news at The LDN Gal. Whether you’re looking for the latest film or TV series, health and relationship advice, home and décor inspiration, music reviews or technology news, we have you covered.

Child of the Ruins by Kate Furnivall

Two women are desperate to survive in post-war Berlin. One searches for her son amongst the ruins of the city and the other will play any side in order to get ahead.

Child of the Ruins by Kate Furnivall illustrates the tales of tenacious women desperate to survive after the horror and destruction of WWII.

It’s 1948 and post-war Berlin has been divided into zones, the West controlled by the Allies and the East by the Russians.

The Russian blockade means over two million people rely on American air drops to survive. A plane lands every thirty seconds in West Berlin.

Anna Wolff lives in a confined East Berlin apartment with her mother, Luisa. The area has been devastated by Russians, fearfully commanding with restrictions, raids and rapes.

Anna’s three-year-old son, Felix, is missing and her old Russian flame has returned. Strange things keep happening and as she deepens the search for Felix, the more dangerous her life seems to become.

Ingrid Keller lives within the rubble of her father’s old circus with her husband, Otto. The former group wheel and deal to better their lives, doing anything for money and security. Ingrid risks it all working as a spy between the almighty powers.

The two women’s worlds collide while working at Tempelhof Airport. Both searching for answers, the airport is the ideal place to learn more about the intricacies and secrets of Berlin.

In post-war Berlin, the Soviets were desperate to get the Allies out of Germany altogether. Spies, corruption and kidnap are commonplace and nowhere feels truly safe.

It’s simple, survival relies on cunning and knowledge. In this desperation, the line between right and wrong has become blurred.

Post-war life during the Berlin Airlift

Inspired by the aftermath of the war during the Berlin Airlift, this historical fiction novel explores the lengths people will go to survive.

Told in multiple narratives, this novel brings the trauma and streets of post-war Berlin to life. The families within have been divided by the war, each individual with their own goals and trauma.

The novel is meticulously researched, drawing inspiration from real and extraordinary history. The world is atmospheric, transporting you to the harrowing scenes of the broken city. With shortages of coal, food, medicine and money, people are desperate and bereft of hope.

Orphaned children run riot in the ruins, Soviet soldiers cruelly keep control and everyday folk will do anything to survive the chaos.

Anna and Ingrid lead with their stories. Full of struggle, mystery and espionage, the novel keeps you on your feet at a growing pace with twists and turns. Each must battle their own demons and seek resolution as they navigate ruined Berlin.

Ultimately, this novel draws you in with its incredibly well-researched historical fiction and tenacious female leads.

It’s a spectacular tale of the lengths a woman will go to survive. Love is a powerful force and human will can be at its strongest in desperate times.

Child of the Ruins by Kate Furnivall was released on October 31, 2023, via Hodder & Stoughton.

I personally have read Child of the Ruins. However, I did receive a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley and this post does contain affiliate links.

Read more book reviews on The LDN Gal

Sausage recipes with Swaledale Butchers

Sausage Lovers Box by Swaledale Butchers

Nothing gets you creative in the kitchen like a box full of sausages. They’re so versatile and the perfect centrepiece to a meal.

I was lucky to sample The Sausage Lovers Box from Swaledale, packed with pork and lamb sausages.

What’s in the Sausage Lovers Box?

In the Swaledale Sausage Lovers Box, you’ll get a pack of:

  • Texan-style Hot Links Sausages (600g)
  • The Cumberland Sausage (500g)
  • 495g Yorkshire Breakfast Chipolatas (495g)
  • Calabrian Sausages (480g)
  • Coarse Pork Sausages (480g)
  • Lamb Merguez Sausages (480g)
  • Toulouse Sausages (480g)
  • Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages (480g)
  • Yorkshire Breakfast Sausages (480g)
Garlic creamy pasta with Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages and spinach

What did we make?

We’ve made plenty! A personal favourite is the Herb and garlic creamy pasta with Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages and spinach!

Herb and garlic creamy pasta with sausages and spinach

This dish was super simple to make. Start by cooking your Tuscan-style Pork, Fennel & Red Wine Sausages from Swaledale.

Use a dish, place your herb and garlic soft cheese in the centre, and surround it with spinach. Use freshly cut tomatoes or tomato sauce to coat and bake in the oven for 10 minutes. Cook your fresh pasta to finish at the same time.

Mix the fresh pasta with the baked soft cheese, spinach and tomato. Either place your sausages whole or cut them up and combine them.

Cumberland Sausage by Swaledale Butchers

Sausage recipes

Looking for some sausage recipe inspiration? Other sausage-based recipes could include:

  • Sausage risotto
  • Toad in the hole
  • Premium fry up
  • Bangers and mash
  • Sausage casserole
  • Sausage stew

If you’re looking for a wide variety of premium sausages to add sparkle to your recipes, look no further than The Sausage Lover’s Box from Swaledale.

Looking for more food and drink inspiration?

I received a complimentary The Sausage Lovers Box from Swaledale but all thoughts are personal. 

Are Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms worth the hype?

Tickets to the Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern are often sold out. People are desperate to see the famed work of the celebrated Japanese artist.

So much so, that the exhibition within The George Economou Gallery has been extended to 28 April 2024.

Within it, there is artwork and two immersive infinity rooms to discover.

The first, Infinity Mirrored Room – Filled with the Brilliance of Life. This room is one of Kusama’s largest installations and was made for her 2012 retrospective at Tate Modern.

The second, Chandelier of Grief. This room creates the illusion of a boundless universe of rotating crystal chandeliers.

What did I think of the Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms?

Unfortunately, both infinity rooms have a time limit of only two minutes (although you can queue again).

I have to say, I found this exhibition underwhelming. The installations are small and the time limit didn’t add to a great experience. Although it is charming, I was expecting more from the famed artist.

The most interesting part was the photography and video that graced the gallery walls. Each with context, this media illustrated the life and tribulations of Kusuma. It was an interesting timeline and snapshot of her lived experience.

It saddened me to hear of her great struggle with her mental health. Although, it’s wonderful that she finds her art as a source of therapy.

Who is Yayoi Kusama?

Yayoi Kusama is revered by many as the most famous contemporary Japanese artist.

Born in Matsumoto, Japan in 1929, Kusama came to international acclaim while living in New York in the 60s. Since her discovery, her eccentric artwork has been celebrated by the masses. This includes a portfolio of paintings, sculptures, fashion design, writing and installations.

Kusama returned to Japan in the 70s. Having spent the last four decades living voluntarily in a Tokyo psychiatric hospital, she continues to work from her workshop to this day.

Exhibition dates and entry cost

Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms are open until 28 April 2024. Tickets cost:

  • £10 for general entry
  • £5 for Tate Collective (16-25)
  • Free with a Members ticket

Book tickets for Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirror Rooms at the Tate Modern.

Looking for more things to do in London?

The Bone Roots by Gabriela Houston

Vedma Kada and Sladyana both live in fear of the fox. Kada keeps her daughter, Secha, hidden, hoping to keep her safe. Thankful to goddess Zemya for gifting her and vehemently praying and offering to her bone roots. On the other hand, Sladyana has spent the last 15 years searching for her daughter, Luba. Snatched by the fox. Each desperate to protect their child, only one can succeed and only one knows why.

The Bone Roots by Gabriela Houston illustrates the tale of two mothers, both desperate to protect their child.

Vedma Kada lives in constant fear. Her brother was stolen by the fox 40 years ago, and she keeps herself hidden, terrified that her daughter, Secha, may be next.

Kada must keep her daughter close, especially when she starts to exhibit powerful and strange behaviours.

Secha is a product of goddess Zemya’s child-bearing tree, a bestowed gift to Kada. Each year, she gives thanks to Zemya, with an offering via her bone roots. Additionally, in her role as a Vedma, Kada ultimately serves the goddess, as well as the local community.

Sladyana, a rich noblewoman, is mother to Luba. Snatched by the fox, Sladyana has desperately spent 15 years searching for her daughter.

When Kada and Sladyana are reunited, both seek answers that may save their children.

The strength of a mother’s love

Inspired by Slavic folklore, this fantasy novel explores the lengths a mother will go to protect her child.

The focus on motherhood is particularly poignant in this story and it’s predominantly told in a dual narrative. Both Kada and Sladyana are strong and complex characters, with troubles aplenty.

Not only must they fight for their beliefs, they must also balance societal expectations for their own protection.

You will find yourself cheering them on or being disappointed in their actions. Some are understandable, others questioning morality. Ultimately, they are human and flawed – and their predicaments are not easy.

Houston is masterful at her atmospheric descriptions, her beautiful prose brimming with emotion, mythology and lore.

A particular example is witnessing Kada in her role as a Vedma (Moss Witch). Her interactions with the weird and wonderful mythical creatures are fascinating. Whether seeking their favour and/or destruction, each conversation is vividly brought to life.

Ultimately, this novel draws you into the fantasy world of Fiesna alongside the harrowing struggles of its female protagonists. It’s a wonderful tale of motherhood, love, desperation, magic and secrets.

The Bone Roots by Gabriela Houston was released on October 10, 2023, via Angry Robot.

I personally have read The Bone Roots. However, I did receive a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley and this post does contain affiliate links.

Read more book reviews on The LDN Gal

Gorgeous Gruesome Faces by Linda Cheng

Gorgeous Gruesome Faces by Linda Cheng

Sunny Lee is a disgraced former K-pop icon. Her world has fallen apart after a scandal and the tragic death of her co-star, Minnie.

The aftermath of these events is brutal. In the depth of a well-illustrated depression, Sunny ruminates on her past success and obsesses over her remaining co-star Candie’s distance.

Seeing an opportunity to join Candie in a competitive idol workshop, she seeks redemption and the truth.

Gorgeous Gruesome Faces is an enthralling debut novel by Linda Cheng.

We’re introduced to a defeated and disgraced Sunny Lee, a former K-pop icon in the US. Her world fell apart after a scandal and the tragic death of her co-star, Minnie.

The aftermath of these events is brutal. In the depth of a well-illustrated depression, now eighteen-year-old Sunny spends her day reflecting on her former glory and cyberstalking her ex-bestie and remaining groupmate, Candie.

Once closer than ever, the death of Minnie changes everything. Candie is now unreachable, and the distance between the remaining groupmates is colossal.

On seeing Candie’s latest venture online, Sunny sees an opportunity for redemption and reconnection. Despite her hesitation, she auditions for the same competitive idol workshop, tackling her trauma and the rift head-on.

However, things are not quite what they seem. Sunny is haunted by more than just past mistakes, co-dependant relationships and complicated sapphic love.

The rise and fall of Sunny Lee

The novel is told from Sunny’s perspective with past and present timelines. These contrasting chapters increase tension, pace the story and allow for vivid world-building.

These alternating timelines also illustrate the depth of the co-stars’ relationships. When at their worst, they are explosive with teenage hormones, mean-girl cattiness and complexity.

The toxicity of K-pop culture

The novel presents a brilliant portrayal of idol culture’s appeal, pressures and toxicity. Combine this K-pop glamour and ruthlessness, a thrilling story full of twists and a dash of occult horror, and you’re in for a magnificent debut (novel).

Gorgeous Gruesome Faces by Linda Cheng will be released on November 7, 2023, via Roaring Brook Press.

I personally have read Gorgeous Gruesome Faces. However, I did receive a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley and this post does contain affiliate links.

Read more book reviews on The LDN Gal

The Night Side by M.M. DeLuca

The Night Side by M.M. DeLuca Cover

It’s been twenty years since Ruby left Stoneybrook, Montana, having vowed to never return.

Throughout her childhood, her manipulative mother Ida forced her to join her schemes, exploiting Ruby to ravage the local community with false mediumship and psychic scams.

With her mother missing and presumed dead, she’s forced to return to settle her affairs. However, Ruby has her doubts – what really happened to Ida?

The Night Side by M.M. DeLuca is a mystery thriller that focuses on the life of thirty-something Ruby.

On receiving a call from her old flame, Aidan, she must go home to settle her presumed dead mother’s affairs.

It’s been twenty years since Ruby Carlson fled Stoneybrook, Montana, and she vowed to never return.

A teenage runaway, she has lived an idyllic life in England since she was eighteen and enjoys a successful career as an archaeologist.

Now she’s back in a place brimming with disturbing memories and horrific secrets. Here, she must uncover the truth, what really happened to Ida?

Additionally, she also hopes to rekindle her bond with Aidan and then get as far away from Stoneybrook as possible.

Escaping a nightmare childhood

The novel is told from Ruby’s perspective throughout with dual timelines, each chapter offering either a present or past account. This allows the reader to understand the extent of Ida’s manipulation, coercion and control of Ruby in her childhood and the damage it’s caused in adulthood.

Essentially, Ruby must now unravel the truth amidst half-truths, whispers, lies and secrets. DeLuca knows how to keep the reader interested, masterfully revealing snippets of information throughout to guide us through the mystery and keep us hooked.

As we reflect on the chapters set in the past, we see that ultimately, Ruby’s life was very lonely. Her only childhood joy was her friendship and courtship with Aidan. Thankfully, DeLuca weaves a blossoming and charming relationship between them in their youth.

As a teenager and spurred on by Aidan, we see Ruby’s confidence develop. Eventually, rebelling leads to her ultimate goal, freedom.

Uncovering the mystery of Ida’s disappearance

However, on her return to Montana in the present, we can almost sympathise with the community in Stoneybrook. Understandably, feelings haven’t changed toward Ruby and her mother. Ostracised by most, their past contempt is a feeling Ruby remembers all too well.

In turn, this treatment also seems unfair. Essentially, Ida forced a young Ruby into her fraudulent schemes, exploiting her ‘gift’ to ravage the local community, especially those she perceived as vulnerable. DeLuca creates a myriad of complex relationships due to this, which has the reader questioning who is right and wrong.

Despite this disdain, Ruby seemingly had little choice as a child, controlled by the manipulative and narcissistic, Ida.

She must navigate these hostile reactions, unlock difficult memories and deal with current emotions, all charging at full speed. In doing so, a realistic character is crafted, imperfect and complex. One we root for, hoping she gets the answers she seeks.

In order for Ruby to overcome her past she must fully embrace her present situation. She must solve the mystery and untangle her trauma if she hopes to enjoy true freedom in the future.

Overall, The Night Side is a thrilling read. It offers complex characters, well-illustrated environments and twists aplenty throughout its well-paced narrative.

The Night Side by M.M DeLuca is due to be published on 5 December 2023.

I personally have read The Night Side. However, I did receive a complimentary copy of this book and this post does contain affiliate links.

Read more book reviews on The LDN Gal

Taking a toddler to the Oxford Bus Museum

Oxford Bus Museum - Entrance Exterior

The Oxford Bus Museum and Morris Motor Centre guide you through 130 years of Oxfordshire’s transport history.

The museum contains around 40 vintage buses and coaches, the earliest dating to 1913.

It features two large exhibition halls alongside two bus-running sheds and a restoration workshop.

Not only are you going to see lots of buses through the ages, but you’ll also see historic cycles and Morris cars. You can even take a free heritage bus ride on select dates.

What can I expect to see in the Oxford Bus Museum?

Inside the Oxford Bus Museum exhibition hall, you can see around 25 historical buses and coaches, some of which you can even board!

You can see a Governess cart, single-deck horse tram, CommerWP3, DaimlerY, AEC Regent and FordTransit190D vehicles, to name a few.

You’ll be provided with a thorough history of each and can even board some vehicles as you make your way around the exhibition hall.

In addition to transport history, there is also a play area for younger guests.

This features colouring, soft play, various bus toys and the adorable ERN1E playbus.

ERN1E is a scaled-down replica of a 1960 AEC Reliance that can be found within the museum.

Restoration projects are ongoing at the museum.

As part of the experience, you can get a sneak peek of the restoration workshop and vehicles being restored via the viewing gallery.

What can I expect to see in the Morris Motor Centre?

Within the Morris Motor Centre, you can discover the history of William Morris and his work.

Starting from humble beginnings, William Morris changed the face of transport in Oxford, alongside boosting the local economy.

There are lots of prolific vehicles on offer. These include the Morris Oxford ‘Bullnose’, Morris Minor and Morris Minor 1000 ‘Panda’, to name a few.

In addition, you can see cycles through the ages via The Faulkner Cycle Collection.

You can compare the erratic designs of the past in comparison to the modern-day bicycle.

View the full Oxford Bus Museum fleet list including buses, cars and cycles.

Is the Oxford Bus Museum toddler-friendly?

If supervised throughout, yes! This is a museum brimming with heritage, so you have to be mindful as you explore the exhibition halls.

However, there are plenty of toddler-friendly activities within. You can enjoy:

  • Seeing 130 years of transport history
  • Going aboard a selection of vintage buses
  • Playing in the toddler play area
  • A 20-minute heritage bus ride (on select dates)

Onsite, there are baby changing facilities within the female toilets, a cafe and shop.

Please note, that buggies and wheelchairs cannot be taken aboard the heritage bus rides due to the nature of the vehicles.

Oxford Bus Museum events in 2023

The museum runs events throughout the year, here’s what’s left in 2023:

  • Wednesday 25 October – Halloween and half-term bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 29 October – Halloween and half-term bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 10 December – Father Christmas and bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm
  • Sunday 17 December – Father Christmas and bus rides at 12.15pm and 2.15pm

Admission costs

  • Adult (over 16 years) – £8
  • Child (5 to 15 years) – £5
  • Family (2 adults and 2 children) – £17
  • Concessions – £7
  • Under 5’s – free

Opening times and location

The museum is open on:

  • Wednesday – 10am–4pm
  • Saturday – 10am–4pm ( July and August only)
  • Sunday – 10am–4pm
  • Most bank holidays (ring ahead)

Location: Oxford Bus Museum, Hanborough Rail Station Yard, Main Road, Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire, OX29 8LA

Discover how people in Oxfordshire would travel in the past in this insightful and interesting day out. It’s perfect for enthusiasts and families alike.

Looking for more things to do in Oxfordshire?

Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris

sold on a monday by kristina mcmorris

Summary

When struggling journalist Ellis Reed stages a photo of children for sale, his actions and ambition to succeed lead to some horrific consequences for the pictured family.

Review

Sold on a Monday by Kristina McMorris is a historical fiction novel set in the Depression era in America.

It’s 1931 and Ellis Reed, a struggling journalist, is trying to make a name for himself at a small newspaper in Philadelphia.

On the off chance, Ellis snaps a picture of two grubby children while on the beat. Sat on a farmhouse porch, the pair hold a sign saying 2 CHILDREN FOR SALE.

Not thinking too much of it, Ellis is surprised when the picture causes a buzz at the newspaper. He’s encouraged to chase the sensational lead. However, on returning, the children are long gone – but the sign remains.

In ruthless desperation, Ellis stages the photo with two local children, hoping for his big break. It soon comes.

Ellis secures the prominent feature and a new job in New York. However, It doesn’t take long to realise the devastating cost of his ambition. Ellis finds himself at the centre of a national debate on child welfare.

Alongside former colleague, Lillian, the duo face a moral dilemma when the story snowballs the lives of the impoverished family. Did Ellis’ desperation supersede their needs?

His actions and desire to succeed lead to horrific consequences for the fractured family. It’s a bleak and hopeless time. Families struggle to make ends meet, and children are often sent away or sold due to financial hardship.

Determined to put things right, Ellis and Lilian must work together to redeem their wrongdoing. Along the way and wracked with guilt, they must face their reality and traumatic pasts in a bid to find peace.

Inspired by a historical photograph from the Great Depression that stunned America, the novel features themes of poverty, loss and redemption while highlighting the resilience and strength of the human spirit.

I personally have read Sold on a Monday. However, this post does contain affiliate links

 

Interactive toddler dance with Second Hand Dance in Bicester, Oxfordshire

We Touch, We Play, We Dance, Second Hand Dance by Zoe Manders

Second Hand Dance are currently touring with their latest production. We Touch, We Play, We Dance is a celebratory dance performance for 0-3 year olds!

We went to see their performance at the OYAP Trust in Bicester via the The Mills Art Centre Banbury.

What happens in the We Touch, We Play, We Dance performance?

The four dancers made use of all the space within OYAP Trust. Moving around, the children are invited to join in throughout the interactive performance.

A live DJ plays music as the dancers respond to each child in turn. They gently encourage everyone to get involved, with big smiles, fluid dancing, high fives and direct interaction.

The show lasts 45-50 minutes with two performances. One for babies (0-12 months) and another for toddlers (1-3 years).

We Touch, We Play, We Dance, Second Hand Dance by Zoe Manders

So, what did we think of We Touch, We Play, We Dance?

We absolutely adored our experience at We Touch, We Play, We Dance. We plan to see more Second Hand Dance performances if they tour within Oxfordshire or local counties.

The show was something truly special. It was wonderful to watch each child slowly come out of their shell. They quickly developed their confidence thanks to the gentle encouragement of the dancers.

The music featured changes in pace throughout, accompanied by beautiful choreography.

Our toddler adored the performance. It was quick to engage and the children are keen to get involved quickly.

It was a truly wonderful performance with lots of obvious thought and consideration in its production and execution. We’re very excited to see what Second Hand Dance do next.

Have you been to a performance at the Mills Art Centre?

Stephanie xox

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Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - trampolines

Toddler trampoline session in Oxfordshire

Jump Inc Bicester is a trampoline and inflatable park in Bicester, Oxfordshire.

The urban playground offers open jump, SEN, unlimited bounce and toddler sessions.

We visited for the unique Toddler Sessions.

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - inflatable course

Is Jump Inc Bicester toddler friendly?

The Toddler Sessions are very much tailored to little people.

Located within a giant warehouse, Jump Inc Bicester offers toddlers (mostly) free roam of their 18,000 square ft site.

They can enjoy the trampolines, performance zone, ninja obstacles, basketball hoops, foam pit and inflatables.

However, for safety, certain areas are closed during the session and parent supervision is a must throughout. Please note, the giant leap platform and wipe out area are not available.

This trampoline and inflatable park is the perfect place to burn off some energy in a safe and controlled environment.

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - basketball court

What can we eat and drink?

The onsite café sells a selection of refreshments and light snacks. 

When is it open and how much does it cost?

Jump Inc Bicester is open for toddler sessions on the following days:

  • Monday from 9 – 10am (1 hour)
  • Friday from 10am – 12 pm (2 hours)
  • Weekends from 9 – 10am (1 hour)

All sessions cost £5 for a toddler and two free adults. Please note, you must purchase hybrid grip socks at £2.50 each for your session. However, these are reusable during future sessions.

So, what did we think of the toddler session at Jump Inc Bicester?

This urban playground is simply a great time. It’s affordable, fun and a stimulating environment with plenty to do.

The toddler session is definitely worth trying. There’s lots of space to roam and it’s accessible for confident little walkers. Our soon-to-be two year old was immediately jumping and running around.

In addition, numbers are limited so it wasn’t too busy which was nice. Saying this, I’d expect more people on weekends.

It’s simple, if you’re looking for a unique and fun thing to do with a toddler in Oxfordshire, look no further than Jump Inc Bicester!

Would you go trampolining with a toddler?

Stephanie xox

Burning energy by trampolining with a toddler at Jump Inc Bicester - trampoline and inflateable park

? £5 for a toddler and two adults (£2.50 each for reusable hybrid grip socks)

? Open for toddler sessions: Monday and Friday from 10am–12pm and on weekends from 9–10am

?️ Located in Bicester with limited parking available onsite

? Jump Inc Bicester, Unit 5, Talisman Business Park, Bicester, OX26 6HR

✅ Pushchair friendly

☕️ Onsite café

? Toilets and accessible toilets, as well as baby changing facilities

⚠️ Must sign a waiver and watch safety video beforehand

?Book a toddler session

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