Behind the Blogger – Juliet Butler from Bookliterati

Tell me about the person behind the blog?

Hi, I’m Juliet, I live in Whitley Bay on the North East coast with my husband David, daughter Briony and my three lovely cocker Spaniels Sasha, Bramble and Bailey. I worked for ten years as a fitness instructor and personal trainer before giving it up for a normal 9-5 job so I could have more time to do an Art History Degree with the Open University. Now I no longer work due to health problems.

When did you start blogging and why?

I started blogging on 23 May 2016, so just coming up to a year. I have always been a prolific reader and after joining Facebook I began reading other people’s blogs. Last year I became a member of the wonderful TBC and was given the confidence to start my own blog and I haven’t looked back since. It gives me a purpose and structure to my week, something to get up for.

What are your proudest moments or achievements todate as a blogger?

If I’m honest my proudest achievement is actually starting my blog. Having suffered chronic pain and depression over the last few years it was big step for me to take, to put my views out there, I was really out of my comfort zone. Facebook groups like TBC and starting my blog have been my saving grace. I have also been proud when some of my favourite authors have got in touch to thank me for my review. I am also really excited to have Marina Fiorato take part in my A Life in Books feature.

If you had to breakdown the components of your ideal perfect book what would they be?

My perfect novel has to have an opening few sentences that grab my attention. It has to be well written with prose that flows smoothly and keeps me engaged. Great characters who are believable and attention to detail in the writing.

What is your favourite genre to read?

My favourite genre is probably historical fiction, but not those regency bodice rippers with swooning women. CJ Sansom, Philippa Gregory and Jessie Burton are a few of my favourites. I also like to read some of the shortlists in the Booker Prize, Bailey’s and Costa prizes. I read most genres but not horror, sci-if or fantasy.

If you had to recommend 3 books, what would they be and why?

1. Possession by A S Byatt, it has it all mystery, crime, romance, history. It is well written, as expected from a Booker Prize winner, and has a fantastic plot.

2.The Goldfinch by Donna Tart, another Booker winner, I love Donna Tart’s writing, she has a special way with words that draw you in, it’s a beautiful book.

3.Flight Behaviour by Barbara Kingsolver, I love her books and this takes a look at climate change in quite a different way. Well written, endearing characters and a really thought provoking storyline xx

Finally, tell me more about your blog and why we should subscribe

On my blog, Bookliterati.com, I review a wide genre of books, from historical to thrillers, romance to crime, there is something for everyone. My aim is to just be honest about the books I read and try to be constructive in any criticism, just because I don’t like the book it doesn’t mean someone will. I also run a weekly feature A Life in Books where authors and fellow bloggers look back at books that have influenced them over the years, so you can learn a bit more about the authors of books and blogs. 

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