Like it or not the Harry Potter movies are over, and actor Daniel Radcliffe – despite having  enough in the bank to walk away forever – is trying to move onto the next stage of his career. He’s already performed on stage to some acclaim, but his next movie project was always going to be highly-anticipated, and doubtless the knives were out when it was announced he’d be donning sideburns for a Victorian horror story.

Radcliffe plays Arthur Kipps, a widow and single father following the death of his wife in childbirth.  But money still has to be made, and his law firm boss sends him off on a last-chance assignment to sort out the will of Alice Drablow, the last resident of Eel Marsh House. As soon as he arrives in the small village nearby, things seem wrong. The locals don’t want him to stay, children are hurried indoors when he passes by, and only local landlord Daily (Hinds) offers the hand of friendship.

Eel Marsh House is on at island at the end of a causeway that gets cut off by the tide twice a day, and en route Arthur sees a cross in the boggy marshland. On arrival at the spooky, dusty house he gets to work exploring and working – but then he begins to hear noises upstairs, and then sees a mysterious Woman in Black in the grounds.

Soon Arthur learns that all the locals have lost children in unexplained accidents, and though Daily dismisses it all as superstition (despite his wife (McTeer) and her obsession with their own dead child), Arthur realizes that his own son’s imminent arrival could be a journey to death.

Establishing a frightening tone immediately (three small girls calmly jump from a building together), this is classic, haunted house, jump-out-of-your-seat stuff. There’s minimal dialogue and almost no music, with the sounds of creaking wood, footsteps and unexplained noises doing all the work instead of lots of blood, over-the-top CGI and an obvious soundtrack.

That may explain its short running time – it’s really only the last 10 minutes or so before there’s any real pace to the story – and as ever with horror movies it’s always hard to understand why people ignore warning signs and go into the cellar or out into the dark.

Adapted from the book by Susan Hill (and with a stage version that’s been running in London since 1989 – the second longest-running play ever next to Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap” – this movie is from raised-from-the-dead British studio Hammer and, despite Radcliffe’s struggle to convey fear or surprise very well, solid performances, stunning scenery and tight direction make for a surprisingly good shocker. Hopefully “Harry” fans will give it a try!

THE WOMAN IN BLACK

Director: James Watkins  

Duration: 95 mins

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Ciaran Hinds, Janet McTeer

Score: 4 out of 5

Review by JAMES BARTLETT

Brit Movie Reviews: The Woman in Black Review – Daniel Radcliffe post-Harry Potter is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Many Doctor Who and David Tennant fans have been waiting for The Decoy Bride for some time. It’s had a strange release schedule (being released in Italy months ago for some reason). But it’s finally opened in the USA on the IFC On Demand service. It will open in US theaters in march.

This is David Tennant’s first turn at becoming the next Hugh Grant – i.e. star of British romantic comedies. The question is – does he succeed? We’ll get to that.

The movie starts with a hoax as movie star Lara tries to throw off the paparazzi to keep her wedding to David Tennant’s character secret. It doesn’t work.

David plays a famous, unassuming author named James Arber, who’s engaged to marry the American mega-celebrity. In spirit it could be a sequal to something like Notting Hill. David expertly dons his English accent which is a nice change as he’s mostly used his native Scottish accent in his recent roles.

The main setting is a charming little Scottish Isle called Hegg (it’s not a real place, it was filmed on the Isle of Man). It’s portrayed as the most remote place in the UK – which makes it the perfect place to stage a celebrity wedding. Until the media finds out their grand plan.

Kelly McDonald stars as a romantically inept islander returning home with her tail between her legs. It’s really nice to see Kelly McDonald is a non-serious role and taking a turn at comedy. She’s mostly known in America for her dower and dramatic role in Boardwalk Empire but here she signs as the awkward islander who gets swept up in the celebrity wedding as the decoy bride to throw off the paparazzi.

The movie is charming in the way that only an independent movie about some far off place in Britain can be. The American characters are probably the worst part of the movie and it really could have done without them. They’re so unnecessary that their plot thread is not even resolved at the end of the movie.

There’s a lot in the movie that doesn’t make much sense but that doesn’t make it not fun and charming. I guess just don’t think about the plot too deeply. It has kind of a strange ending but it works. David Tennant could certainly continue playing romantic roles – he gets the comedy timing right and he’s of course charming as always.

Overall it’s a fun little movie and we recommend it.

You can rent it now on IFC On Demand for $9.99 or you can wait until it’s released in theaters in a few weeks time.

If you’re curious – here’s the trailer:

Brit Movie Reviews: The Decoy Bride Review Starring David Tennant and Kelly MacDonald is a post from: Anglotopia.net

This being the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee year, there’s a whole host of books coming out about her that purport to tell her life story. The first of them is The Real Elizabeth – An Intimate Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Andrew Marr (in the UK the book is titled The Diamond Queen: Elizabeth II and Her People – which is much more accurate representation of what the book is about). It’s a pretty good read and I’ll go into it in more depth.

For those that aren’t familiar with him, Andrew Marr is a broadcast journalist in the UK best known for his documentaries on the history of modern Britain as well as a media personality who hosts a Sunday Current Affairs talk show called The Andrew Marr Show. He’s generally a good reporter and reliable storyteller, so I was looking forward to reading his take on the Queen.

The basic synopsis of the book is that it covers the history of modern Britain framed through her life and her reign. We get lots of back story related to her parents and grandparents and how a little known princess ended up becoming heir to the throne after the Abdication crisis. Many words are spent on this period of history but it’s important to get this back story so you understand the Queen’s worldview, which Marr insists is very different from the rest of modern Britain.

The book covers the main events in the Queen’s life, from her childhood, her time during the War, her Coronation and her reign through the volatility of 60′s, 70′s and 80′s Britain. It does not shy away from the disasters and the controversies. Many Royal watchers will be familiar with most of them but Marr provides some interesting tidbits and has sources that provide different perspectives on well known events (such as the Death of Diana).

All throughout Marr attempts to portray the personality of the Queen. But I think he rather fails because the Queen is supposed to be absent of personality. That’s her duty. Thus reading the book sometimes she’s comes off rather like a robot.

There are many interesting asides as Marr guides us through her day-to-day activities and all the arcane little traditions and conventions that have to be followed for the smooth operating of the British state (of which she is the head). There’s a whole chapter dedicated to the Royal Yacht Britannia how it defined her reign only to be scrapped in 1997. One amusing insight was that there was a secret plan, in the event of a nuclear war, to turn the yacht into a floating palace where the Queen could continue to run her kingdom by hiding in Scottish lochs.

While the book is an interesting read – sometimes it feels a bit like an obituary. The Queen is far from dead and will likely be with us for another 20 years more by going on the longevity of her family. So, it’s a little strange to be writing about her in this fashion. There are no explosive revelations in the book, no controversies, which is fine as that’s rather symbolic of the Queen’s modus operandi.

Her Majesty has had a profound affect on British society – yet most of that is simply due to just existing and being there. She’s a living symbol, not just of the British state but of Britain’s long history and heritage in these matters. She fulfills her duties admirably even in the face of controversy (usually created by her wayward children).

Really, reading the book made me rather jealous that we don’t have a monarchy. With the shambolic state of our political system, it would be rather nice and comforting to have an apolitical head of state who represents us a nation. Our head of state will always be a political person who only represents us for 4 years (or if we’re unlucky, 8). Perhaps that’s why British royalty is still so popular here. The Queen endures, she’s survived countless hostile governments, swings to the left and right. It’s rather amazing to think that her first Prime Minister was Winston Churchill.

The book ends in 2011 which saw the success of the Royal Wedding and looks at the optimistic future the Royal Family can expect. As someone who experienced the Royal Wedding first hand – it’s interesting to already read about it in a historical context.

If you’re at all interested in the Queen and in modern British history, I highly recommend this book. It’s a masterful read and any Anglophile will enjoy picking it up.

Brit Book Review: The Real Elizabeth – An Intimate Portrait of Queen Elizabeth II by Andrew Marr is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Making a biopic about Margaret Thatcher is not an easy thing to do. She’s not a sparkling conversationalist, she’s not overly witty, and she’s not electric in personality. However she is one of the most significant women of the last century and remains England’s first and only female Prime Minister. She is a woman who, while in office,  caused as much controversy as she gained accolades.

Thatcher is the subject of a new biopic, ‘The Iron Lady.’ In the film Meryl Streep plays Thatcher in her older years with Alexandra Roach portraying her in her formative years. Jim Broadbent co-stars as Denis Thatcher. Richard E. Grant and Anthony Head also appear in the film.

Encapsulating the entire life of someone as significant as Ms. Thatcher is no easy task. She is a daunting figure who even today casts a shadow over the office of Prime Minister. Nonetheless this is what ‘The Iron Lady’ sets out to do. Using flashbacks the movie establishes early on that Ms.Thatcher was a potent political leader who came from nowhere to smash through barriers of gender and class to stand side by side with other leaders in a male dominated world.

History shows us that Margaret Thatcher was a woman who, when she set out to do something, got it done. Her Achilles heel however that was she often didn’t play well with others. As she rose to power in the Conservative Party she stepped on a lot of egos and spewed a lot of venom at some of the most respected people in Britain. Streep brings this out in her performance with rich detail, upending tranquil scenes with sudden bursts of rage and anger. She also does a magnificent job of bringing the inner turmoil that Maggie suffered all her political life; being a woman in a man’s game.

In fact it is this that haunts Thatcher and makes he lust for power so intense. As Thatcher, Streep perfectly mimics her voice, mannerisms and vocal pitch. It is a striking proposition to play her and Streep undertakes this fearlessly.

Alexandra Roach has it somewhat easier. Her younger Thatcher, although fighting early on for a political seat, is far more endearing and naive. The film’s few tender moments come when she and a younger Denis (Harry Lloyd) meet, court and fall in love.  Roach sets the groundwork for what is to come and allows Streep to roam free in the role later on. Thatcher’s early years in politics were not easy and Roach’s performance reflects her ambition, drive and determination to be seen as more than a grocer’s daughter. She too has taken a dauntless role and made it her own.

Broadbent is superb. He gives the film a breath of air when things get intense. He also holds his own with Streep onscreen as she hustles and bustles boisterously from crisis to crisis. Broadbent, although appearing mostly as an illusion of Thatcher’s dementia throughout most of the film, gives Denis a life, albeit one that is subservient to his wife’s insatiable desire for adoration and power.

Olivia Colman plays Carol Thatcher, Maggie’s daughter who watches helplessly as her mother moves from the worlds of the past and present without any differentiation. It’s not easy being the daughter of one of the most controversial figures in the world and Colman brings this out in the role. She brings a sense of angst as a daughter caring for a mother who is in mourning and suffering from dementia.

The film is set over three days in Thatcher’s life following the death of her husband. Over this period Lady Thatcher, suffering from dementia, recalls her life. It is not obvious at first, but her dementia is profound. She struggles to control herself and oftentimes finds herself speaking to her dead husband. Flashbacks and archival footage tell the story of her ascension and decline from power as well as her life out of office. These flashbacks chronicle her rise from obscurity to her rise through the House of Commons and eventual leadership of The Conservative Party. This is where Streep really takes the reigns of the role and runs with it. As Thatcher becomes PM and leads Britain into the Falklands War she intensifies her performance. She perfectly nails Thatcher’s cold ambivalence to labor strikes, youth protests and the antiwar movement.

Streep skillfully recreates the cold and calculating Thatcher that got things done her way and balances that with a woman, who late in life, struggles with getting a grip on reality and being an ordinary citizen. This careful balancing act enables her to bring a sense of tragic melancholy to the elderly Thatcher who clearly remains bitter, angry and lost after leaving office.

During Thatcher’s rule she faced several crisis situations. The UK’s youth culture and union workers protested and criticized her ever move. The riots they caused were profoundly demonstrative in illustrating how divided she often made her nation’s citizens over her policies. As Prime Minister she was not always popular. She was one of the most controversial leaders of the 1980s who oversaw a period of economic malaise, went toe to toe with the IRA, and went to war over the Falklands. She also  staunchly supported American interests in the Cold War by allying Britain closely with Ronald Reagen’s United States, another move that enraged her colleagues and most vocal opponents.

When Meryl Streep takes a part she inhabits every fiber of that character. Here she completely transforms herself into Ms. Thatcher. The tone, inflections and mannerisms are pitch perfect and thus the audience completely forgets they are watching an actress.  Thatcher is not an easy person to like and Streep gets it right by not trying to make more out of her then she is. She doesn’t shy away from the fact that Thatcher is often very cold and domineering . Yet her version of the PM is tinged with a sense of loss over the death of her husband and frustration over how she left office.

Although The Iron Lady is one of Streep’s triumphs as an actress, the film itself  misses its mark. The pacing is off and the audience is left to wonder somewhat as they attempt to discern what Maggie perceives as real or imaginary. The  ensemble is terrific but suffers from a script that drags a bit in places as it struggles to make Thatcher interesting and compelling. The fact is that  it is hard to make one of the world’s most unlikable political figures interesting to a wide audience.

Director Phyllida Lloyd
 adeptly chronicles her life and political rise by, at times, presenting the film like a stage production with closed in sets, tight dialogue and powerful acting. By staging the film in this way she manages to make this daughter of a shop owner watchable. It also creates a natural spatial tension that enhances the scenes where Thatcher is at combat with her rivals. Lloyd also takes advantage of some great locales for filming. Being able to film inside some of the most powerful places in the British government lends a lot to the production. It is a cinematic treat. The costumes and sets are also great.

She also knows enough to let Streep go out on her own and inhibit the character without interference. With Roach she lets a young actress find her way with the part, resulting in a breakthrough performance.

‘The Iron Lady’ is a film held together by Meryl Streep. The supporting cast is also quite good, however there is something flat about the film that makes it difficult to connect with. It could be that even on screen Thatcher is not easy to warm up to. Another problem is that this movie is over ambitious in trying to deliver a complete picture of someone as complex as Margaret Thatcher. The film is unapologetic of her flaws and characteristics and doesn’t try to rewrite history. Nonetheless it somehow misses  capturing her many complexities which is probably impossible to do in a feature film.

This evasive, all pervading problem of Thatcher’s unlikability is what makes ‘The Iron Lady’ a good film but not a great one. It is a very good film that has so much more potential to be a great one. Maybe the film suffered from Thatcher’s problem of not knowing when to hold back and ease up. Still, despite this, it is worth seeing.

‘The Iron Lady’ is a must see for fans of British politics, popular culture and history. Sadly many people today know little of the discord she brought to her nation’s youth culture or just how close she came to plunging England deeper into the murky depths of The Cold War. She was controversial, powerful. resourceful and resolute. She moved Britain from austerity into a new era of nationalism while restoring it as a world power. ‘The Iron Lady’ affords Anglophiles the opportunity to familiarize themselves with one of Britain’s most polarizing personalities while watching an amazing actress, Meryl Streep, make the part completely her own.

Brit Movies: The Iron Lady Review from an American Perspective is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Fiennes – most recently seen on screen as Lord Voldemeort in the tumultuous final two movies of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – goes all Shakespearean for his directorial debut, taking on one of the bard’s lesser-performed works.

Screenwriter John Logan (Gladiator, The Aviator, The Last Samurai) adapted Shakespeare’s base-on-truth early 17^th century story for the big screen, and Fiennes seems to have gained the same acclaim and plaudits for his performance on film as he did on stage, when he played the lead role in 2000 in London and New York.

The story begins in wartime; the Romans – led by battle-scarred veteran Gaius Marcius (Fiennes) and fighting off the challenge from the Volumnia city rebels led by Tullus Aufidius (Butler). The two are vicious enemies from way back, and when they meet early on they fight it out with knives, though an explosion ends the fight.

Returning home a hero, Marcius is elected Consul by the grateful Senators and christened “Coriolanus”. But outside the gates, the Roman people are hungry and sick of war, and when their new leader can barely hide his lack of empathy, he quickly falls from grace and, despite the best efforts of peacemaker Melenius (Cox), ends up being banished from the city.

Hell-bent on bloody revenge, Coriolanus walks the roads alone until, bearded and bedraggled, he arrives at Volumnia and offers his service to Aufidius and the rebels – or demands immediate death. Aufidius welcomes him with open arms, but soon he’s playing second fiddle to Coriolanus, who refuses to negotiate with a desperate Melenius and won’t even speak when his ambitious mother (Redgrave), wife (Chastian) and young son are sent to beg for his mercy. Can anything stop Coriolanus now?

Even without the prose it’s often proved difficult to adapt Shakespeare for modern audiences, and here, despite good performances – from Redgrave and Cox especially, and Fiennes too – the problem is that Coriolanus is such an unsympathetic character. He’s a rich, war-mongering man who cares only for his pride and honor and nothing for his people, so there’s nothing about him to like at all.

He’s the villain of the story too as a result, and even though it’s meant to be a tragedy, when it becomes clear that the much-anticipated (and highlighted) Fiennes/Butler dynamic is only a tiny part of the movie and is played out and resolved briefly and highly unsatisfyingly, you end up with a crushingly over-long story.

If perhaps Coriolanus had gone over the rebels half way through and audiences had seen how he and Aufidius wrestled with the fog of war, the thrill of victory and the division of power/rivalry, then it might have been more engaging and powerful.

But the decision was made otherwise, and since it also lacks any real wit or humor as well as a lead whom you quickly feel deserves whatever nasty end he may get, then it becomes a wearisome couple of hours, even despite some good action sequences and the (rather obvious) use of modern metaphors and technology.

Movie Info:

CORIOLANUS

Director:  Ralph Fiennes

Duration: 122 mins

Cast: Ralph Fiennes, Gerard Butler, Brian Cox, Vanessa Redgrave, Jessica Chastain

Score: 2 out of 5

Brit Movies Reviews – Coriolanus – Ralph Fiennes stars and directs Shakespeare’s tragedy is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Editor’s Note: This if the first review for Anglotopia’s new staff Brit movie reviewer – James Bartlett – a British Expat living in LA.

Period dramas and classic novel adaptations aside, in many ways this is perhaps the most British movie released for many years, as it is a biopic of Margaret Thatcher, the British Prime Minister from 1979-1990 and a figure who not only became world famous as a no-nonsense politician and leader, but as a woman broke countless glass ceilings on her determined rise to the top.

Now frail and well into her late 80s, Thatcher herself is rarely seen in public these days and her reign is not looked back on with much fondness. It could be that history will be a fairer judge, and this movie attempts to look at Thatcher the person, as well as Thatcher the public figure.

The story begins as an elderly Thatcher (Meryl Streep) has breakfast with her husband Denis (Jim Broadbent), though it’s quickly clear that he is a figment of her imagination, and that she’s now seemingly disappearing into dementia, with long-dead Denis as a regular companion as she recalls moments from her past.

These include her young days as a grocer’s daughter with a father who was strong Conservative values; hard work, protecting business and minimal Government assistance – it’s no surprise that she and Reagan shared such a bond later. As a young Margaret Roberts though (played by Alexandra Roach), she entered a world of sexism and smoky rooms – yet Denis was one of the few who admired her spirit and respected her degree from Oxford.

Switching continually between the hazy present and the rose-colored past, we see Thatcher become head of her political party and then, in a ground-breaking historical moment, the first female Prime Minster. Over the following years she battles against the Unions and strikes, refuses to deal with terrorists, is bombed by the IRA, makes huge public cuts and introduces unpopular taxes – but also wins a war in the Falkland Islands and ushers in years of prosperity.

All things must come to an end though, and a leadership challenge sees her resignation and obscurity, regarded as a heartless relic in this modern age. Her flighty daughter Carol (Olivia Coleman) struggles to help, but is always second to Mark, the Thatcher’s son who always makes excuses to come and visit. It’s only Denis – a lost fantasy – who keeps her from losing her fast intelligence and strong opinions, and she knows even he will have to leave.

As awards season has proved, Streep – as ever – is marvelous as Thatcher in middle/late age, while Broadbent shows that Denis was always quick with a joke and an encouraging word. Streep captures Thatcher well, though – as someone who grew up in that era in England – never quite makes it; perhaps that would have been too much of an impression.

Part of that is due to the script, which barely rises above simplistic, movie-of-the-week stuff that lacks any real depth or bit; thank goodness it was Streep playing the part. American audiences are unlikely to be able to understand what is happening with regards to the historical elements either (Reagan gets a second of footage), and though perhaps that’s why they’re represented with vague archive footage, director Law – so successful directing Streep in “Mamma Mia” – adds little but safe clichés.

A movie like this about such a controversial and famous person needs to be packed full of drama and conflict, and here it’s too focused on an elderly Thatcher hallucinating her ghost Denis. It’s a tactic that allows Streep to show all her talents, but veers too closely to a character study of an old person remembering her past – and like it or not, Thatcher was more than any person, though you would hardly know it from this movie.

Movie Info:

THE IRON LADY
Rated: PG-13
Director: Phyllida Lloyd
Duration: 105 mins
Cast: Meryl Streep, Jim Broadbent, Alexandra Roach, Olivia Colman
Score: 2½ stars out of 5

Brit Movies Reviews: The Iron Lady – Meryl Streep Shines by The Film Glosses Over History is a post from: Anglotopia.net

I love a good book about living off the grid and A Little Piece of England – A Tale of Self Sufficiency by John Jackson is a great little book about the subject.

Here is what the book is about:

A Little Piece of England, tells the tale of how the author’s family, living in a sliver of countryside in London’s commuter belt, came, over some ten years, to make itself, in its ‘spare time’, self-sufficient in its requirements of milk, meat, eggs, vegetables and some fruit. The book can be read in two ways. One way is for those, particularly urban folk, who are interested in growing their own food or contemplating a life style founded on their own smallholding. In this way, it is a book for those who wonder about the practicalities of living in a self contained, permacultural way and for those who dream of making their own bread or even, perhaps, of eating their own mutton stewed with their own onions and carrots.

The other way is for those, perhaps particularly anglophiles in other lands, who are in harmony with the stubborn, Saxon streak which runs strongly in the character and culture of the English. The streak which showed itself when London was fire-bombed night after night in the early 1940s and also when John’s self-taught grandfather told his children ‘You don’t know what you can do until you try to do it’.

Obviously, we read the book as Anglophiles genuinely interested in what life is like in the English countryside for someone trying to make a go at living with self-suffiency.

The book is well written and is very approachable and easy to read. Once I started it, I couldn’t put it down and when it was done I found myself wanting to know more about this family and their journey.

It’s lovingly illustrated throughout – which provides nice framing for the stories told in each chapter.

Reading it was like being transported to my own little patch of the English countryside, dreaming of farming the land and making a life for myself. It’s an Anglophile’s fantasy really. And if you can make it happen in real life, at least there is a book like this to help you imagine that you have it.

It’s a cracking good read!

It’s available in Paperback as well as Kindle Format.

Brit Book Review: A Little Piece of England – A Tale of Self Sufficiency by John Jackson is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Herein lies a special review: Taylor’s immediate reaction to her first viewing of the new Sherlock.

I am thoroughly prepared to eat my words upon second viewing but this reflects my initial thoughts.

~Warning. Spoilers abound and post is sorely unedited or proofread~

I feel like there are two reviews I want to write regarding the newest Sherlock episode ‘A Scandal in Belgravia’. The first is a glowing review of the superb cast, lovely direction, and interesting story line. The other is a bit of a canon related lament, which I honestly feel guilty about given the treatment of Irene Adler characterwise.

Perhaps I went into things with my expectations too high, but I honestly was not all that impressed.

However, I wouldn’t want the more casual viewer to get the wrong impression. The episode was quite a joy, the character development that was brought in felt like a special treat. I was particularly happy with new glimpses we get at the relationship between the Holmes brothers. The combination of fine acting and subtle writing perfectly struck a balance between the lack of emotion shown by the brothers and the level of care and concern they each feel for each other.

Other stand out moments certainly included:

• Sherlock’s concern for Mrs. Hudson and the particular brand of payback he dishes out to her attacker
• John’s ugly jumpers, the real reason I watch anyway
• The list of cases at the beginning of the episode and the way the harken back to the canon stories, particularly fond of the The Speckled Blonde
• Sherlock’s stealing of an ash tray from Buckingham Palace
• In fact, all of the scenes at Buckingham Palace. The playful banter between Sherlock and John is simply shining
• Sherlock’s shamming at being a priest who has been attacked
• Sherlock sincerely apologizing to Molly

I’m sure I’ll think of much more but I’ll leave it at that for now, as this review is intended to be an immediate reaction, and I should like to move on without thinking about it way too much.

Now, for the bad. Actually, I don’t think bad is the correct word. Disappointing might be better. I am so very happy that Irene Adler was not treated as a love interested and was shown as an equal to Sherlock. However, the show once again fell into two traps I’m not particularly fond of:. 1. Irene, while she does get the best of Holmes momentarily, does not come out of it completely victorious. It seems as if for the sake of storyline and fan we once again have a case of, Sherlock can’t be defeated fully. and 2. Despite proving her self a strong and intelligent character, Irene is not only working for Moriarty, but vulnerable to many different agencies of higher up bad guys.

Again, this does not detract from the episode itself, but for me, as a person who has been nothing but thrilled with the canon plausibility of the the series as a whole, I had really hoped that we would see an Irene who was working for herself, not involved in a larger plot, and ultimately victorious over Sherlock completely.

I would most certainly suggest that everyone watch it however. Even if you’re a die hard Sherlockiana, the departures from canon do little to impact the magnificence of the shows writing, acting, and directing. Feel free to send us your comments on twitter @BakerStBabes and maybe we’ll have time to address them in one of our Sherlock reaction episodes in the coming weeks.

Sherlock: Series 2 Episode 1 – A Baker Street BabeTalks BBC’s Sherlock – A Scandal in Belgravia is a post from: Anglotopia.net

The British TV Podcast with Chrissy & Ryan presents its 2011 Holiday Special. We review the recent Christmas specials on British TV including “Doctor Who,” “Downton Abbey,” “The Borrowers,” “Lost Christmas” and more. Ryan finishes the year with his Top 10 list of favourite TV shows.

Listen to Show 102

British TV Podcast – 2011 Holiday Special – Downton Abbey, Doctor Who and More! is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Do you have a little Anglophile in your life? If so I have found the book for them. England Is a Truly Magical Place by Karl Woodbury and Tony Crampton is a children’s story that is chalked full of British history that is accessible to children. This edition also comes complete with an audio version of the book for young and old to enjoy.

The story is of two twins, Jenny and Lenny. They are told a bedtime story and as they drift off to sleep they begin to dream. They meet up in a dream together. The dream is the same as the bedtime story that was told to them. They go on an amazing adventure across England. They learn history and British culture. The story is written in rhyme, which gives it charming quality.

I really enjoyed this little story. When my son, William is old enough for this book I look forward to reading it to him. They rhythmic rhyming makes the book fun and easy to read. I also loved the ‘Britishness” of the book, from the children’ having fish fingers for lunch to exploring Viking ships this book covers it all. There are also sweet illustrations sprinkled throughout the book that remind me of the illustrations of Shel Silverstein.

The book is laid out in sections of England so to speak, each section of the story focuses on a time period or location in England. There aren’t traditional chapters in this book. That is the same way with the audio book. However the audio book that comes with this edition is broken down in to two disks. The disks are broken down into parts of the story.

Overall this is really cute book. It is also a great way to teach little ones British history and culture. The book all together reminds me of the Shel Silverstien books that I loved so much as a child. I think this book would make an awesome gift for the little Anglophile in your life.

Brit Book Review: England Is a Truly Magical Place is a post from: Anglotopia.net

We receive a lot of books to review in the Anglotopia offices. While all of the books we have received have been wonderful, London Adventure Walks for Families, has to be one of my favorite. Perhaps, it is because the next time I travel to London it will be with a child? As an American I was brought up thinking of London as the home of Paddington Bear, Mary Poppins, and a place where Kings and Queens still reined. London held a special sort of magic for me. The first time I went to London and stepped out of Paddington Station, I remarked to Jon that the surroundings looked like something out of a storybook!

As we have traveled to London many times I have grown to see London as a major metropolitan city. London is full of art and culture and an amazing nightlife. But I have never thought of it as a family friendly city. That is not to say that I don’t think that London isn’t family friendly, I’ve just never thought of it in those terms. However, all that changes now with the birth of my son William. We are planing a large trip to London for the Diamond Jubilee for Her Majesty next June, and I wondered about family friendly activities for my little family. After all, I think William is a bit young for a night out in the West End.

So you can imagine my glee, when this little book came across my desk. London Adventure Walks by Becky Jones and Clare Lewis are written by two mothers. The books takes you on wonderful walks through London, from famous literature to architecture and history, this book has it all.  I have to admit though, my favorite walks were the literature walks; Mary Poppins, 101 Dalmatians, Padington Bear and even Charles Dickens. The walks conjure up that magical quality that London possesses.

Each chapter is dedicated to a single walk. The chapter has a map along with wonderful facts about the attractions on the walks. They are sure to give distance, and a start and finish point. This book was really well thought out. There is even a section on where to eat on each walk, and  those with young children know that  this tip can  be extremely useful. I love that each chapter is crammed full of fun facts for the whole family to enjoy.

Overall this book is a home run as far as London walks go and even better as far as family friendly activities go. London Adventure Walks for Families will be going with us next June. I am so excited to go on some of these walks. I cannot wait to show William the sights using this book.

Brit Book Review: Tales of A City London Adventure Walks for Families is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Several months ago, I ordered a copy of the acclaimed British music magazine, MOJO, to be sent to me in the post.  The particular issue I ordered also came with a compilation CD featuring artists on the London music label, Communion.  Communion is of great interest to me, not only because the label was co-founded by Ben Lovett, a member of one of my favourite bands, Mumford & Sons, but also because they specialise in working with very talented singer/songwriters, many of whom I’ve recommended in previous columns (such as Daughter, Pete Roe, Marcus Foster, and Johnny Flynn).

Once I received my copy of the magazine and gave a cursory glance at the names on the back of the accompanying CD, I put it on, turned up the volume, and went about tidying up my kitchen.  Then, I heard a voice that made me stop dead in my tracks.  I heard this:

To my ears, it sounded like the second coming of Otis Redding, and I actually got goosebumps on my arms whilst listening to it.  So I picked up the CD jewel case once again, and checked to see who the voice that had floored me belonged to.  Michael Kiwanuka was his name.  I put the song on repeat, finished up my chores in the kitchen, then headed straight for my computer to find more of his music.

The next song of Michael’s that I stumbled upon—as a result of my Internet search—was called Bones.  The video I found for it was of a performance he’d done at Union Chapel in London.  I fell in love with the song, and even more so with his voice.

Every song of Michael’s that I came across thereafter thrilled me.  His voice and sound reminded me of the great soul singers my parents had loved and had raised me on, like Otis, Marvin Gaye, Sam Cooke, Bill Withers, and Curtis Mayfield.

A bit more Internet sleuthing led me to additional information on Michael.  He grew up in Muswell Hill, London and his parents are from Uganda.  He’s only been writing songs for about 3 years (which I found simply stunning, considering he’s only 23), and I learnt he had recently opened for the incomparable Adele on her summer tour, and would also be opening for my beloved Laura Marling.

I checked his gig schedule, dying to know if he’d be in my neck of the woods anytime soon, and discovered that he was scheduled to play a free show in Birmingham during the same time I’d be on holiday in England.  I decided that a day trip to see him perform live was absolutely in order.

And so on a fine Tuesday afternoon in October, I boarded a train to the hometown of Ozzy Osbourne and Duran Duran, checked myself into a nearby Premier Inn upon arrival, and ventured off to see Michael perform at a tiny jazz club near the city centre called The Yardbird.  Here’s just a taste of what I witnessed that evening:

Getting the chance to see an incredible talent like Michael perform in such a small venue before he really hit the big time… I can say, unequivocally, that it was absolutely worth the trip.  Michael sings with a wisdom far beyond his 23 years.  His sound is a mix of soul, folk, and jazz that he melds together so beautifully.  He truly makes what he does look effortless.

Michael is garnering all sorts of attention in the music industry these days.  He was recently nominated for the BRITs Critics’ Choice Award, and is also one of 15 artists nominated for the BBC Sound of 2012 Award.  He’s been featured on BBC Radio 1, as well as on Later… With Jools Holland.

Currently, he has released two EPs, with a third coming out at the beginning of 2012.  His full-length, debut album, Home Again, will be released on the 26th of March, 2012.  He’ll also be playing live throughout the UK through February.  If you get the opportunity to see Michael perform live, don’t hesitate.  Do. It.  I promise that your ears, heart, and soul will thank you profusely.

You can find out more about Michael Kiwanuka on his official website at http://michaelkiwanuka.com/

Chuffed to Bits: British Music Artist on the Rise – Michael Kiwanuka is a post from: Anglotopia.net

New Tricks is one of our favorite British  cop shows and the season 4 box set released by Acorn Media is another great DVD set for your viewing pleasure.

Three former detectives thought they were retired–until the lovely and persuasive superintendent Sandra Pullman (Amanda Redman, Sexy Beast) recruited them to right the wrongs of the past. Now members of the unsolved crimes unit of the Metropolitan Police, they reinvestigate tough cases no one else can crack.

Their methods are old-fashioned, and they don’t care about the rules because they have little to lose. Gerry Standing (Dennis Waterman, The Sweeney) is thrice divorced; Brian Lane (Alun Armstrong, Bleak House) is depressed; and Jack Halford (James Bolam, The Beiderbecke Affair) is mourning the death of his wife, killed by a hit-and-run driver. But their camaraderie is real and their skills are still sharp.

Seen on public television, this long-running, award-winning British series features a brilliant cast, top guest stars, deft writing, and an irresistible blend of compelling drama and dry humor.

It’s a great show and we really enjoyed series 4. The 3 disc set features 8 episodes across 3 discs. The DVD is light on the extras but that just means they’re free of distractions so you can enjoy the show.

Brit DVD Reviews: New Tricks Seasons 4 DVD Set Review is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Did you know that London only had one bridge that crossed the Thames until the eighteenth century? I was amazed when I read that interesting fact in Peter Matthew’ London’s Bridges.  This book is the ultimate guide to the bridges of London. From  railway purposes or pedestrian purposes, Matthews looks at every one of London’s bridges, giving the history and unique facts about each one.

The subject of this book is anything and everything having to do with London’s famous bridges. Each chapter lovingly tells the story of how each bridge came into being and the effect that it’s building had on the city. Matthews also talks about the industry surrounding the building of the bridges. It was interesting to learn so much about these wonderful landmarks.

I really liked this book, I had no idea there was so much history surrounding London’s bridges. It was interesting to read how the city grew up around them. I was also entertained at the notion that some of the first bridges in London had houses and buildings on them. I could only imagine what that would look like today. I really liked the illustrations and photos in the book as well.

Each chapter of the book is dedicated to a particular bridge. There is also  an introduction and a fantastic index. The chapters are broken down to include the history and planing of the bridge up to it’s present uses today. The illustrations and photographs in this book were excellent and accompanied the history well.

I haven’t often seen a book that encompasses the history of all of London’s many bridges. Peter Matthews’ London’s Bridges was a wonderful and fascinating read.  This book was full of interesting tidbits about these magnificent feats of engineering. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in this topic.

Brit Book Review: London’s Bridges by Peter Matthews is a post from: Anglotopia.net

1). Visit The Queen’s official home 

Windsor Castle, the world’s oldest and largest inhabited castle, is an official residence of Her Majesty The Queen. Highlights include the State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, the burial place of ten monarchs, and Queen Mary’s Dolls House. The Changing of the Guard, usually accompanied by a band, takes place at 11:00 daily from April until the end of July and on alternate days for the rest of the year (weather permitting and except Sundays). The best viewing point is the Corn Exchange at the famous Windsor Guildhall. Once inside the Castle, you can watch the actual changing ceremony outside the Guardroom in the Lower Ward at 11.00am.

www.royalcollection.org.uk

2). Learn to play polo – the sport of Kings 

The Royal Borough hosts polo at a number of venues featuring the world’s top professionals and plenty of opportunities to take part in half time „divot stamping‟ – Pretty Woman style. National and International teams compete, with their entourage of ponies (never horses!) Lessons are also available where you can learn the rules and tactics and perfect your polo swing. No experience necessary.

www.windsor.gov.uk

3) Dine out celebrity chef style 

Looking for top notch dining? The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead offers Michelin stars, celebrity chefs and world-class cuisine. The latest addition is Antony Worrall Thompson’s Windsor Grill www.AWTRestaurants.com. A stone’s throw from The Long Walk, the Windsor Grill menu boasts an unrivalled range of prime Aberdeenshire steaks, handmade burgers, exquisite fish and seafood dishes and daily changing specials. In the nearby village of Bray you can choose from two, three-starred Michelin restaurants – The Waterside Inn www.waterside-inn.co.uk run by Michel Roux and The Fat Duck www.thefatduck.co.uk run by Heston Blumenthal – voted best restaurant in the world in 2005. These are two of only four triple-starred Michelin restaurants in the UK.

4). Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee 

To mark 60 years of The Queen’s reign the Diamond Jubilee will take place in 2012. Celebrations will centre around an extended weekend in 2012 on 2-5 June with details to be announced. A Diamond Jubilee Pageant is planned for 13 – 15 May. A portrait of The Queen’s reign will be captured in 60 photographs on display at Windsor Castle, highlighting fleeting moments from both official occasions and relaxed family gatherings (from 4 February 2012 – January 2013).

www.windsor.gov.uk

5). Tour Eton College

World famous Eton College opens its doors to visitors from April to October. Founded in 1440 by King Henry VI, the School Dress still consists of a black tailcoat, waistcoat and pin-striped trousers introduced in the 1850s. Eton has educated 18 British Prime Ministers, Princes William and Harry and four times Olympic Gold Medal rower Sir Matthew Pinsent. Short guided tours of approximately one hour in length are available. Pre-booking is essential.

www.etoncollege.com

6). Discover Windsor’s Olympic heritage 

Book a private walking tour for your group with an expert Blue Badge tourist guide and discover Windsor’s Olympic heritage. Hear the amazing story of the 1908 Olympic marathon and why the official marathon route is 26 miles and 385 yards. Legend has it that the start of the marathon was moved to the Castle’s East Terrace because the then Princess of Wales wanted her children to see the race. See the only 1908 marathon route marker on Eton High Street and walk along part of the actual route. Also visit The Long Walk to see where the 1948 Olympic road cycle race took place.

www.windsortouristguides.co.uk

7). Visit Savill Garden 

The Savill Garden is part of The Royal Landscape, which also includes the Valley Gardens and Virginia Water. It is one of England’s finest woodland and ornamental gardens with 35 acres of trees, shrubbery, ponds and streams, lawns, meadows and formal beds which are home to some of the world’s most decorative plants. The new rose garden was opened by Her Majesty The Queen in June 2011. This exciting and contemporary garden is best visited from mid- June to September.

8). Horse-drawn carriage ride through the Royal Landscape 

Explore Windsor Great Park in style with a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride. Ascot Carriages www.ascotcarriages.co.ukoffers scenic drives in a beautiful Victorian carriage previously used by the Queen’s Equerry and Horsemaster. Orchard Poylewww.orchardpoyle.co.uk runs tours from outside Windsor Castle and down The Long Walk to Home Park.

9). Walk the Riverside 

Escorted by the Royal Boatmen, the Royal Family once used the Thames to travel between royal palaces. It’s less common these days to see royals on the river, but walks along the Thames Path are not to be missed. Start from Old Windsor, and once past the weir at Old Windsor Lock, cross Albert Bridge for a detour into the village of Datchet – you’ll soon return over Victoria Bridge into Home Park, with picture postcard views of both Windsor Castle and Eton.

www.windsor.gov.uk 

10). Dress up for Royal Ascot 

For almost 250 years, Royal Ascot has established itself as a national institution and the centrepiece of the British social calendar as well as being the ultimate stage for the best racehorses in the world. Tradition, pageantry, fashion and style all meet in a glorious setting where stewards wear bowler hats, ladies show off elaborate outfits and the after racing “singing round the bandstand” is a feast of fun and flag waving. Royal Ascot is the South of England’s most popular picnic spot and the most popular sporting occasion at which to picnic in the country and under-18s go free when accompanied by an adult.

www.ascot.co.uk/?page=royal_ascot 

11). Count swans with HM Swan Marker 

Follow The Queen’s Swan Marker, the Royal Swan Uppers and the Swan Uppers of the Vintners’ and Dyers’ livery companies. The party use six traditional Thames rowing skiffs and The Queen’s Swan Uppers wear scarlet uniforms. When a brood of cygnets is sighted, a cry of “All up!” is given to signal that the boats should get into position. On passing Windsor Castle, the rowers stand to attention in their boats with oars raised and salute “Her Majesty The Queen, Seigneur of the Swans”. After weighing, measuring and a quick health check the swans are released back to the river Thames.

www.royalswan.co.uk/

12). Attend evensong at St George’s Chapel

The Choir of St George’s Chapel is one of the leading Church Choirs in the country. It comprises 24 boy choristers and twelve Lay Clerks singing alto, tenor and bass. They perform Evensong at 5.15 pm (sung every day except Wednesdays) in a service which lasts approx. 45 minutes. Founded in 1348, the choir sings regularly in the presence of the Queen and other members of the Royal family and has a large repertoire of music drawn from all ages and traditions.

www.stgeorges-windsor.org

Top 12 things to do in Windsor – Top Tourist Sites in Windsor England is a post from: Anglotopia.net

This year’s Michelin Guide is bigger and better than ever.  This trusted guide has been around for over a hundred years, with the first guide having been published in 1900 by Andre Michelin himself. The Michelin Guide has been used by millions in many countries around the world as a invaluable guide for traveling. This year’s guide is no exception, in being invaluable.

The Guide this year includes more than 3600 restaurant and hotel reviews. It also includes maps and awards for best hotels and eateries. The maps are very nicely laid out for easy use.  There is also two unique sections in this year’s guide, beer and whiskey.  Michelin has also included a guide on how to dial internationally. The guide also includes prices ranges for eateries and amenities for accommodations.

I particularly enjoyed the first sections of the 2012 Michelin Guide. These first few sections include; a beer and whiskey guide, a section entitled particularly pleasant Hotels & guesthouses and there is even a section on tires. This years guide is usual solid guide that we have all come to know and love. However this year’s Great Britain and Ireland guide has included many more eateries and lodgings.

The guide follows it’s normal standard layout which is comforting and makes things easy to find.The Guide starts with England and winds it way through Great Britain. They cover eateries and and lodging. The book also has fantastic maps. They’ve also included a dedicated section to London.

Overall, this trusty Guide is once again just as trustworthy. It has been spruced up a bit and added many more entries. This is a must have if you are traveling to the UK and Ireland. This Michelin Guide has come to be known as the gold standard for travel guides and this year’s volume does not disappoint.

Brit Book Review: Michelin’s Great Britain & Ireland 2012 Guide is a post from: Anglotopia.net

There is such a romance when I think of train travel. What it must have been like to sit in a grand car that was an opulent feast for the senses. However when I think back of what train travel  must have been like I usually completely forget about what the train station. In college I took a course on the history of railroads, we did not cover the history of the stations. Oliver Green’s Discovering London Railway Stations, is a wonderful source to learn some history of some of London’s most famous railway stations.

Did you know that in the year 1900 London had fourteen railway stations? The book lovingly and accurately looks at each of these beautiful stations. London has some of the most beautiful railway stations I have ever been to and it was wonderful to learn the unique history of them.  Green covered  the past and present history of these fourteen stations. The collection of pictures are fantastic as well.

I loved this book, even though I am not a huge fan of railway history. My first ever view of London was taking the Heathrow Express into Paddington Station. As I stepped out of the train and looked up at the marvelous glass and iron ceiling I was awe struck. That sense of awe has never left me when visiting London’s grand railway stations. I have sipped champagne in St. Pancras, took the Euro Star from Waterloo (the Euro Star now leaves from St. Pancras.) and been to platform 9 3/4 at King’s Cross Station. Having been to most of  London’s stations, I have often wondered about the history of these amazing places. Green’s book was fun and easy way to learn the history of the stations.

The book dedicates each chapter to one particular station. Each chapter starts with the construction of the station to the present day. The chapters also have wonderful photographs and illustrations showing the pictorial history of the stations. The book is wonderfully organized by dedicating each chapter to a particular station.

Overall, this book was really cool. I am not a railway history buff so this isn’t normally a book that I would read, but I had always wondered about the history of the stations. Green’s book was such a fun and easy read. I would highly recommend this book for any anglophile, railway buff, history fan, or those who just love London. This book is a real gem.

Brit Book Review: Discovering London Railway Stations By Oliver Green is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Victor L. Cahn really had a unique idea when he wrote Bard Games, a fun quiz book about Shakespeare. I honestly am not a huge Shakespeare fan, so when I saw this  come into the Anglotopia office I was hesitant on how to review it. I desperately wish I were a bigger fan of Shakespeare, and this book has helped me really find some enjoyment in these famous works. I was intrigued by the book and as I flipped through it I learned a ton about who Shakespeare, his works, and the adaptations of that work over time.

The book is broken down into  52 quizzes. All of the answers to the quizzes can be found at the back of the book. I was amazed how much information there was in this book. I took a semester on Shakespeare and thought I had learned a lot but the book was such a fun and unique way to learn more on the subject. There are really fun drawings in the book too.

I really liked that this book took such a fun approach to learning about Shakespeare. I think this book would be awesome for students learning more about the man and his work. I also liked that, although I am not a major Shakespeare fan that there were quizzes in here that I could still do. I think this would be an awesome party game book. It would be a fun conversation starter.

I think if one was to study this book, you’d practically be an expert on the subject of Shakespeare. As ashamed as I am to admit it, I learned more from this book than I did during an entire semester of study. I wish Shakespeare would have been presented to me with a book like this along with his works. I think I would have found it to be more fun and eventually developed a better appreciation for Shakespeare’s work.

This book is an absolute must for the Shakespeare fan, student learning the works for the first time, or the guy you just can’t seem to stump. While the topic, for me isn’t the most exciting, I really did enjoy learning more about this amazing man and his work. It was neat to see how through time his work has evolved into adaptions that we love today. This book is a lot of fun while being educational at the same time.

Brit Book Review: Bard Games by Victor L. Cahn is a post from: Anglotopia.net

When I think of iconic British automobiles, the one at the top of my list is the Land Rover. Author James Taylor covers the long and exciting history in his book, Land Rover. I knew that Land Rover had quite an long history as a British brand, but I never realized how many functions the Land Rover has had over the years. From being a military vehicle to taking explores across Africa, the Land Rover, has circled the globe.

The book is broken down by the functionality of the vehicle from it’s first incarnation to the glitzy vehicle we see today driven by posh stars. In the book it is said that the Land Rover may be one of the only vehicles one may ever seen. This is such a true statement. It may sound cliche but, when I see nature shows the photographers are most often riding around in a Land Rover. The book also showed how Land Rover vehicles have evolved through the years and the functions that they have held over the years.

I really liked this book. I learned a lot about how the flashy vehicle of today became what it is. I was really amazed to see all of the functions Land Rovers have held, such as ambulances, military vehicles, to explorer vehicles. I had always known that Land Rovers were made to be tough rugged vehicles but it was neat to see how it all came to be. After reading this I realized that the Land Rover is a really cool vehicle. While I do like the posh newer models I think after reading this book I would like to have an older more rugged Land Rover of my own someday.

This book is laid out really well. Each chapter talks about the function that Land Rovers held during different times in history. There are plenty of fantastic pictures that illustrate the long and versatile history of the Land Rover.The book goes on not only to discuss the history of the Land Rover but how the Range Rover came into being as well. This book is real history and eye candy for the Land Rover lover.

Overall this book was really cool. I had no idea how much history was behind this iconic brand. I had read this book just to gain knowledge of the brand but ended up really wanting a Land Rover of my own someday. I also found a picture in the book showing where you can take your Range Rover on a special outdoor terrain course to learn how to drive it as it is meant to be. This book is a must for any Land Rover fan or owner. I highly recommend, Land Rover by James Taylor.

Brit Book Review: Land Rover By James Taylor is a post from: Anglotopia.net

The British Motor Industry by Jonathan Wood is a wonderful look into the history of the motor industry of Britain and how it shaped a country an a culture. Mr. Wood’s book is broken down by time frame covering ever big name brand car maker in the UK. The book starts with the beginning of the motor industry in 1896 and chronicles the amazing history of it until it’s decline, and into today’s market. It was a very interesting read to hear about how some of the most famous motor brands in the world go their start.

As I said earlier the book is broken down by time period. It starts from the birth of the automobile industry in the UK. The book not only discusses the history of each motor company but it tells the stories of the live the industry touched. Whole cities became known for the auto they produced. The richly written history is fantastically accompanied with excellent photos and illustrations. I particularly loved tall of the auto advertisements

I loved learning what went into making some of  the most infamous brands in auto history. It was also amazing to read about how the lives of an entire nation change with the rise and fall of the auto industry in England. My favorite part of this book was the advertisements for the motors, particularly the older ones. It is so unique to see how a lifestyle was sold along with the automobile.

I would highly recommend this book to any British car enthusiast. It was so interesting to learn the history of some of the most successful auto companies of all time. Next time I see a British brand I will know a bit about the history of that particular car. While I am not a car fanatic by any stretch, it will be nice to know what I am talking about if this topic ever comes up in conversation. This book would make a lovely present for anyone who is in love with the history and charm of the UK auto industry.

Brit Book Review: The British Motor Industry by Jonathan Wood is a post from: Anglotopia.net

There is such a romance about the British country house, I wonder what it would have been like to be a guest at a grand country house during this time in history. I would have adored participating in all of the events of a grand weekend in the country. While I cannot travel in time, Life in The Victorian Country House by Pamela Horn, gives a wonderful idea of what it would have been to be there. Reading the book, I felt almost as if I were actually in a Victorian country house.

The book encompassed all aspects of what a grand country house would have been like, from who lived and worked in the home to the activities that would have taken place, and everything in between. The book has a wonderful collections of pictures of daily life and illustrations from the time period.  The information in the book allowed me to immerse myself in the daily life of the Victorian country house.

I loved this book. I loved all of the illustrations that showed the daily life. I really enjoyed the parts of the book that talked about Victorian and Edwardian fashion. I wonder what it would have been like to go about my daily activities dressed in such style. I loved that book gave such an accurate view of such a grand style of life that is rarely seen today.

Life in the Victorian House is a wonderful glimpse into daily life of the Victorian home. The book is organized in a easy to read way that allowed me to feel almost as if I were a grand lady living a day in beautiful country home. I especially loved the chapter on growing up in the grand country house. I found the book to be a historically accurate view of this type of life.

I would highly recommend, Life in the Victorian Country House to any Anglophile. It was a wonderful view into such a grand way of living. I enjoyed seeing the real photographs and illustrations throughout the book. The book covered such a vast array of topics about the country house that I would have not originally sought out to research, but I was glad to have read about. I highly recommend, Life in the Victorian Country House by Pamela Horn.

Brit Book Reviews: Life in The Victorian Country House by Pamela Horn is a post from: Anglotopia.net

If you’re looking for an entertaining and exciting Anglophile novel for the holidays then the Power Behind the Throne by Sally Nicoll is the book for you.

The book itself has a rather absurd premise – that Prince Charles had an illegitimate son with an American and the ‘establishment’ in the UK would do anything to make the American heir go away. Once your brain gets around the idea that the Royal Family could be threatening in anyway – it’s a fun and satisfying adventure through London, British Culture and history.

Author Sally Nicoll writes with great skill and it’s very clear that she has a deep knowledge of Britain, British Royal History and London. I found myslef transported to London’s rainy streets, following along our characters as they journey through familiar London locations as the plot resolves.

Here’s a great plot summary:

Ten Centuries of Royal tradition under threat… and all because a boy wants to meet his father.

The reign of Queen Elizabeth II is finally drawing to a close. American student Jack Hollander is the one man who can stop Prince Charles from fulfilling his destiny. He just doesn’t know it. Something else he doesn’t know: His death warrant has been signed by the Sceptre Committee, a secret organisation with a simple but vital objective; to protect the monarchy at all costs. Jack Hollander, freshly arrived in London to study architecture, is trapped in a high stakes game he doesn’t realize he’s playing – until he discovers the shocking truth about his own identity and the grim secret that has already destroyed his family. Torn between ex-girlfriend Megan and Rachel, the English rose he meets on a tour of Buckingham Palace, he sets out to extract revenge. But will Jack Hollander get to meet his father before the Sceptre Committee sends him back to Seattle in a body bag? And if he succeeds against all odds, will the British monarchy survive ‘its greatest threat since Oliver Cromwell’? Sally Nicoll’s debut novel combines meticulous research with high octane thrills. Like her previous best-seller, Bets and the City, it is a genuine page-turner with a breathtaking climax – and an astonishing sting in the tail. The Power Behind The Throne will appeal to fans of David Baldacci, Frederick Forsyth, Robert Ludlum, Vince Flynn, and Michael Dobbs.

It’s available on the Kindle and costs just $2.99 – which is pretty good price for the hours or entertainment that it will provide. It reads very much like a Dan Brown novel – you can’t put it down until your done and when it’s done, you’re left thinking – what can I read next?

Brit Book Reviews: The Power Behind the Throne by Sally Nicoll is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Okay.  I admit it.  I’ve got a sweet tooth.  To be honest, death by chocolate sounds pretty good to me.  You know that scene from Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, where Gene Wilder is singing Pure Imagination?  You know the one…

Who didn’t dream of visiting a place like that when they were a little kid?  Well, minus the creeptacular boat ride that came afterwards.

Fortunately, we don’t need a Golden Ticket or the excuse of childhood anymore.  These days, desserts are in vogue, and from couture cupcakes to gourmet brownies to the resurgence of the classic whoopie pie, you can enjoy delectable sweets anywhere and everywhere.  In moderation, of course.  Moderation is key.  I mean, one cannot live on simple carbohydrates alone, right?  Right…

On my most recent trip to the U.K. this past October, I came across a few places where you can indulge your craving for sinfully delicious sweet treats.  All I can say is thank goodness I did a lot of walking around the city after trying them out!

Outsider Tart.  I attended a dinner party in London recently, and one of the other guests brought a box of delicious goodies from Outsider Tart for dessert.  The brownies were decadent as well as massive, and instead of our original plan of cutting them into quarters to share them, we decided to slice them into slivers instead, because there were just too many tasty looking options to choose from and we all wanted to try a bit of everything.  I don’t think we ever came to a consensus on an overall winner (there were a lot of contenders), but we all agreed on one thing:  the American ex-pats running this bakery in Chiswick are masters at what they do. 

Ben’s Cookies.  I’ve talked about this place before in previous columns, and it’s certainly worthy of another mention.  Simply put, Ben’s Cookies are divine.  They have many tempting flavours to choose from, but the one that blows my mind every single time is their Double Chocolate and Nut cookie.  So.  good.  So good.

Ella’s Bakehouse.  I recently discovered an English chef named Lorraine Pascale on the Cooking Channel here in the States.  Lorraine is a former model who hosts a baking show in the U.K. (which is now being broadcast here across the Pond), and she also happens to be the owner of Ella’s Bakehouse, a cupcakery located directly across from Ben’s Cookies at The Piazza in Covent Garden.  During my visit to Ella’s, I tried the Nutella cupcake.  Nutella is what I refer to as a Category 5 dessert all on its own because of how dangerously addictive it is, so I never stood a chance once I saw those little gems in the display case.  I was floored by how moist and delicious it was.

The Hummingbird Bakery.  A friend and I happened to pass by the Soho location of the Hummingbird Bakery after dinner one night whilst en route to a concert, and we just couldn’t resist the urge to pop in for a pre-show treat.  We both concurred: their cupcakes (especially their red velvet cupcakes) are just to die for.  They also sell brownies, pies, cakes, and whoopie pies. They even make a red velvet whoopie pie.  Can you imagine?  Gah!  Heavenly.

Paul A. Young Fine Chocolates.  Well, my friend and I were feeling really naughty whilst in Soho that same evening we visited the Hummingbird Bakery.  So naughty in fact, that we just couldn’t help but notice a delectable display of brownies in the window of the Paul A. Young chocolaterie on Wardour Street.  So we didn’t fight it.  We went inside.  As we were chatting with a very nice salesman who was sporting a fabulous pompadour, he kept referring to the shop’s namesake as if he was in the room or something.  Well, imagine our surprise when he introduced us to Paul A. Young himself, who was wearing an apron and actually helping out behind the counter!  Paul could not have been nicer, treating us to some samples, telling us about his new cookbook, an upcoming visit he’ll be making to N.Y.C. for a chat show appearance, and he even accommodated our silly request for him to sign the labels on our brownies.  He also pointed out some Thanksgiving truffles on a display table, to which I quirked an eyebrow and asked why they had Thanksgiving truffles on offer in England of all places.  Paul smiled and explained that there were several American ex-pats living in an area near one of his shops, and he created the truffles with them in mind.  We waited until the following day to try our treats (mine was a limited edition, sea salted caramel pecan brownie—Holy YUM!), and I can honestly say it was the densest, fudgiest brownie I’ve ever had.

Harvey Nichols.  Yes, this is a lovely, high-end department store boasting such lust-after brands as Chanel, Burberry, and Marc Jacobs.  But what I also love about Harvey Nichols—and many other department stores in the U.K.—is that they have a superb food hall, where they boast some seriously delicious baked goods.  I’ve yet to visit their flagship location in Knightsbridge, but I did pay my first-ever Harvey Nichs visit to their store in Edinburgh recently, where I introduced a Scottish friend of mine to the beauty of red velvet cupcakes for the very first time.  I’m not exactly sure what bakery makes and supplies them with these tasty little creations, but they certainly do a brilliant job.  We were there on Halloween, and they had the cupcakes tricked out with elaborate ghosts, skeletons, and pumpkins made of sinful, buttercream frosting. 

Where is your favourite spot for sweet treats in London?

Chuffed to Bits: Cookies, and Brownies, and Cupcakes – Oh My! Sweet Spots in London to Indulge Your Sweet Tooth is a post from: Anglotopia.net

Have you ever imagined what it would  have been like to sit down to tea with Jane Austen? I certainly know I have pondered this many times. Would tea with Jane Austen resemble what high tea today? Kim Wilson’s book, Tea With Jane Austen answers all of my questions on this topic. After reading the book I can accurately imagine what it would have been like to sit down with Jane herself.

The book looks at all aspect of tea in the time of Jane Austen; from the history of tea to wonderful and authentic recipes that would have been eaten during that time in history. The  book talked about the types of tea, when it was drank and what would have been served along side. It goes on to share some of the more unknown aspects of the tea trade during this time. However that being said, the book is still a refreshing and fun  look at tea during this time period.

I loved the recipes in the book, from tea cakes to orange jam. The recipes are printed as they were originally were written.  A lot of the recipes I would argue could still be found at high tea today. I also really enjoyed the personal touches of Jane Austen through this book, from quotes to peeks into her life. The pictures and illustrations also  give the book a historically accurate but charming feel.

The book starts at Morning tea and then winds through the day, covering all topics in between. From shopping for the tea to tea and health. The book takes a very historical view of this national drink and illustrates all of the little nuances behind it. Furthermore, the book is peppered delicately with writings of Jane and correspondence between her and her sister. The real jewel in the book are the collections of recipes that Kim Wilson chose to put in.

I really enjoyed Tea with Jane by Kim Wilson. The book is such a neat peek into this time period and a wonderful historical look at tea. The book feels so lady like and I think this is a book that Jane Austen would have approved of. This book is certainly going on my Christmas list to give away this year. Any fan of Jane Austen would love to have this book.

Brit Book Review: Tea With Jane Austen by Kim Wilson is a post from: Anglotopia.net

With the success of dramas like Downton Abbey, the Edwardian lifestyle is once again brought to the small screen, bringing curiosity about how people lived during this time. The Edwardian Home by Yvonne Bell is an excellent resource to see how those who weren’t in charge of a large manner house lived.  So much of England is filled with Edwardian architecture but rarely does one get a peek inside, behind the front door.

The Edwardian House wonderfully describes how a middle class family would have lived, from the kitchen to the garden and everything in between.The book starts with the beginnings of the Edwardian home, from the style in which the homes were built all they way to the loo. The book shows how the rooms that the Edwardian lived in shaped their daily life. The book is filled with pictures of daily life, some taken and printed during this period in time.

I loved that The Edwardian Home did not shy away from areas of the home that one does not usually see, such as the bathroom. The pictures in the book are outstanding as well. Merely, by paging through the book one can easily get a sense of what it must have been like to live in the Edwardian Home. I loved that this book showed what a basic middle class family would have had, because after all, we aren’t all Earls of Grantham.

The book starts from the most basic aspects, from building and design of the Edwardian home to going through the rooms that comprised of the Edwardian home. Ms. Bell even included the Edwardian garden and what roll it played in daily life. Each room in the home was pictured  and it was explained how each room would have been lived in. As many of the pictures were taken during the Edwardian era they are historically accurate.

Overall, I really liked The Edwardian Home by Yvonne Bell. It gave me a clear understanding of how a middle class family would have lived during this time. This era in history has always fascinated me, thinking of how their world was changing quickly and technology was advancing. This book perfectly illustrates that point, showing how the Edwardian yearned to embrace that newest technology into their homes and daily lives.

Brit Book Review: The Edwardian Home by Yvonne Bell is a post from: Anglotopia.net