This needlework book is very thorough, containing an overview of techniques, equipment and a stitch glossary. The patterns are divided into four chapters around a technique, each chapter contains more information on that particular technique. Littered throughout the book are 'Tricks' - these are 'tricks of the trade' which the authors consider are 'the secrets of needlework - the things that you only pick up in classes when being taught by a professional.' I've looked through the book to try and find a 'trick' that isn't patently obvious to the majority of needleworkers - even those who have never encountered a professional - and the best I could come up with was, when doing cross stitch, the idea of putting a spot of appropriately coloured permanent marker on the fabric in the centre of each stitch you'll be working in a row/area so you don't have to refer to the chart so often.
The chapters and projects are:
Canvaswork - Lean on me - An Emily Peacock circus script project. Bargella Sardines - At first glance I thought they were peacock feathers (and so did a friend - unprompted), Love is in the Air - two trapeze performers holding a heart, A fish tattoo - based on traditional tattoo design, Passion - the word 'Passion' in a flaming heart.
Applique - Rabbit in a top hat - a silhouette project, Bleeding a rose - a cut up rose appliqued with embellishments, One - the word one above two hearts.
Silk Shading - Golden Apple - a hand holding an apple, Kissing couple - a male face and a female face puckering up for a kiss, Bird in flight - a simple bird shown in iridescent thread.
Goldwork - Winged brooch - a winged heart, Ferris Wheel - a section of ferris wheel, Drama - the word 'Drama' in goldwork.
I can appreciate that a lot of work has gone into these designs, and that they could be adapted. Sadly though there isn't a single design I like or feel inspired by. This is a great pity - I adore Emily Peacock's work, and I expected some beautiful designs, but, in my opinion they simply aren't there. So four stars because I respect the fact that it is a good book for those who will like the patterns, and because it is jolly thorough. Minus two stars for not inspiring me. Very disappointed - I had been looking forward to this for a while. Even the cover pattern is absent...
I will try and put some pictures up of the book later so you can see for yourselves.