July 2024 Reads

The Strain, Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan

Having watched the series, I wanted to read the books, although having completed the first, there was no true reason to — the adaptation was more than decent, though characters are a little stereotypical and wooden at times. Still, this first of the trilogy doesn’t entirely disappoint. I like the way the authors created unconventional vampires. That, when turned, people become monsters different from the classic. If anything, the TV series humanised those turned more than the book does. I can’t say I found this scary and there were few creepy moments, but I’m hard to scare. The fear here comes from a pandemic of epic proportions running rile and of a type that would be tough to make anyone believe until the situation was far beyond saving. Here, losing someone means to lose them to something truly worse than death only to have them perpetuate the disease with an ease rarely seen in the modern vampire genre. The ease and speed with which the vampires propagate is what makes this story frightening. This is for anyone who likes their vampires nasty.

Shadow Walker, Prometheus 3, Esther Mitchell

I can’t read this author without imaging these stories as a filmed series. It’s hard to believe they’re not more widely read. The effort put in to the creation is clear. Another way to look at them might be a supernatural take on Suzanne Brockman’s work, and by that I don’t mean a facsimile. These are extremely different, but the blend of romance and action is there. I quickly grew to love the two leads in this novel. Trevor and Jaye are a couple you can’t wait to reconcile, and the need to know what happened between them is only one thing keeping the reader engaged. This is the best book in the series so far, an emotional tug of war. I love the author understands how people can feel several emotions at once, using that passionate upheaval to pull the reader apart in a chapter, a paragraph, or even a sentence.

A Summer Fling (audio), Milly Johnson, read by Colleen Prenderghast

I’ve listened to several of the author’s work on audio, but this one was the first that took me a while to get into. I admit almost stopped listening a few times, but a few threads kept me wondering enough to finish this. As I learned more about these characters and their stories took on more shape, I grew slowly invested in them. Though the reader hopes for and expects happy endings here, the journeys aren’t easy, and are sometimes surprising. Filled with some fun characters, I ended up enjoying most of the storylines, in particular the one featuring Vladimir Dark. Still, this one felt a little overlong, though that’s understandable when featuring a large cast with all the required outcomes.

The Betrayals, Bridget Collins

Like a beautiful orchestration. When I began reading this, I thought I was in for a treat, but that feeling dissipated. I felt dumped into a setting, into a world I didn’t quite understand. I doubt many of us have heard of the term Grand jeu, and even when I looked it up, the idea of a university situated around this ‘game of music’ made little sense to me. However, as the story continued, it worked like a gentle rift, building up to a majestic crescendo. The plot could be called basic, but it’s the style of the writing where individual notes tug on the heartstrings in various ways that’s slowly gripping. The even obvious plot points weren’t at all diminished even if I spotted them. A strange but unexpected love story.

The Fall, Guillermo Del Toro and Chuck Hogan

The second book in The Strain trilogy. This one certainly picks up the pace, leaving the reader with an edge-of-the-seat feeling. This is bleak in the best sense, and a great set-up for the last book.

The Cat Who Saved Books, Sosuke Natsaukawa

This odd sounding book caught my attention and I’m so very glad it did. Lightly mystical stories that pass through four strange labyrinths with a talking cat as the guide, slowly revealing why books are so important and why people love them. This left me smiling and unable to part with the novel. One for those who love books, or a great present to give or read to someone. For anyone who wishes to pass their love of books on.

June 2024 Reads

Not much read this month owing to a busy holiday and health issues, but here they are:

Anna Dressed in Blood, Kendare Blake
I confess the title made me pick this up, that and the cover, though I’d heard a little buzz about this book, and I was interested to see how YA horror would work. The book’s well-written and entertaining, but ultimately too short to give the reader the pay-off the idea deserves. To make that clearer, to develop the love-interest element and to keep Anna scary enough required more time than this length of books allows for. Saying that, I feel the author did well in the allotted space, and certain genres require authors to keep to certain word counts. Still, I can’t help feeling the story would be far better had the book been longer, providing more time for something other than love (or is it infatuation?) to develop more believably, and also hiking up the creepy factor and scares. Hence, the genre still confuses me a little.

The writing is of YA style, be it an elevated type, and the details graphic without being gory like an adult horror novel might be (though no story needs to be graphic to be scary). The story itself was fun with some prominent characters, but as someone who read Stephen King, and James Herbert, when I was barely a teen, I guess it’s confusing why this category exists. Also, the protagonist is 17, which is adult enough for me. Sure, in the UK and USA it’s generally 18 by law, but what you can and can’t do by age can be a little ridiculous. A 17-year-old can surely read adult horror, and many start reading and watching far younger (not debating whether they should here). Anyone of that age might find this book to be as mild as I did, but the story was an excellent idea and the novel entertaining.

The Taking, Dean Koontz
A re-read for me that made me instantly question how I ever could have forgotten this book. Or perhaps the subject didn’t connect with me as a younger reader. Koontz is often ‘accused’ of injecting his religious beliefs into his work. The same could be said here, though to good effect. This is an alien encounter like no other, blending horror and supernatural elements expertly, yet being in some ways thought-provoking. Those who enjoyed Phantoms might like this, and there’s no need to let personal faith or lack of spoil this. Highly imaginative, and the story has a satisfying conclusion.

Update June 2024

 Hi Everyone!

AT HOME:

Enjoyed a lovely break in one of our favourite places: Tintagel. One of our main reasons to stop for a few days was to put flowers on a friend’s grave in St. Materiana’s Churchyard on what would have been his birthday, and to spend an afternoon with his wife, including going to lunch. Although I struggled somewhat, I still completed a walk to Rocky Valley, which included some amazing views of Bossiney Beach. I’ve been to both before, of course, but had not seen them from this viewpoint along the coast. I’ve been joking I’m officially old as I’ve now got myself a pair of walking/hiking sticks, but everyone of all ages was using them and some steps on the coast path can be so steep, it’s worse than trying to step onto a chair. Once I had one leg high enough, there was nothing left to push with. I’ve since looked up how to use them correctly and recommendations say they enable people to walk farther, save fatigue, and strain on many areas of the body. The ones I bought aren’t wonderful, but if I get on well with them, I may invest in a better set. I could have used them at the beginning of the week rather than the end, but I’ve got them for next time.

I also finally spent my birthday money buying a few souvenirs. I was especially pleased to find two excellent panoramic prints, one of Tintagel and one of Boscastle, which weren’t too big, and make lovely keepsakes. Naturally, we enjoyed some lovely meals notably at Charlie’s, the Boscastle Farm Shop, and we at long last made it to Inkie’s Smokehouse at Golitha Falls. I probably shouldn’t mention it as it’s always been heaving (or closed) when we’ve tried to go, and the increased foot traffic, although bringing more visitors to the falls (free), has eroded the area. I also note that the toilets are still ‘under refurbishment’ but as that sign has been up for over a year, I have to question its authenticity. Only horrid Portaloos on site, I’m sorry to say.

FILM/TV:

At long last finished all 15 seasons of Supernatural, and I completely understand the fan base. It’s impressive that they kept the story flowing so long, increasing the trials and tribulations as one should do in a long running show. Although it leaves a viewer somewhat bereft when one stops after viewing for so long, I feel they stopped the story at the right point. No one can face a greater foe than… well, in case anyone hasn’t seen it, I won’t spoil anything; those who know will get my point.

Moved on to watching The Wheel of Time series, and think it’s a decent adaptation from the books. I read them so long ago, it’s hard for me to remember every detail, but the salient points are all there. It’s hard to please everyone with any book adaption and with something this epic, it’s impossible to include every point.

Also watched A Murder at the End of the World on Disney, which has kept me gripped even though I feel the protagonist is, at times, TSTL (too stupid to live). The ending was a surprise. Most of all, we’ve had a blast watching Fallout. I guess dystopian western sci-fi is the best way to describe it. Funny, entertaining, and yes, violent and a little gory in places, though that part maintains a somewhat cartoonish edge in that it’s fast and never quite believable. Mind, I don’t even find the violence in most horror films believable. People don’t continue to rise to their feet despite the odds, and would many times die of shock. I guess Fallout could also be called shocking for those who cannot believe what humanity is capable of. But the series isn’t what I expected, constantly moving, interconnecting the characters in surprising situations, with barely a pause. I also love the music they chose for the soundtrack.

We’re into the Tom Baker era of Doctor Who and I have to say, although I’ve liked many of the Doctors, and as much as I have a huge soft spot for Jon Pertwee, in part because he was my first Doctor, in part because he was so good in the role, Tom Baker takes the award for best original Doctor. His was the perfect balance between eccentricity and seriousness. I’m also surprised that as a child I didn’t realise how ahead of the time the female companions were. They were always strong-willed, independent women. Strange that the Beeb allowed these characters, though I won’t go into why I think so. Let’s say I heard they didn’t exactly practice what they preached, especially all those years ago. Even more recently women have had to, and still, campaign for equal pay. Admittedly, often these companions rushed somewhat foolishly right into danger, but at least they didn’t sit still, waiting to be rescued.

WRITING:

Following on from what I said last month, I have been writing, postponed for a week when away, but in the days allotted for writing, I’m pleased with my progress.

Stay happy and healthy!

Sharon x

A Hurt Softened

Wrote nothing on the blog the last couple of weeks, first because we were away on holiday. Second, because I take a week to physically recover from trips these days. I never imagined my life being ruled by an ailment, but then most of us don’t fixate on what might happen. It’s true that you can worry so much, you forget to live. To get some living, we had a break at one of our favourite places: Tintagel in Cornwall, where we enjoyed some marvellous sunsets. Not a terrible view.

We met up with our friend’s other half for lunch, and got some walks in, including the coast path from Tintagel to Rocky Valley, which offers some wonderful views not only of Rocky Valley itself, but of Bossiney Beach. I thoroughly recommended the trek.

Visiting Tintagel is bittersweet now because a dear friend lies buried in St Materiana's churchyard. As we all have to lie somewhere, eventually, there are worse places. Our friend was evacuated to Tintagel as a child during the war, to live a long happy life there, finally to die in a well-loved home surrounded by beloved family, never to leave even in death. I guess none of us can hope for more. For me, it feels strange to say that somewhere that has always brought me peace, now also brings a little pain, but many loving memories soften the hurt.

I confess...

I’m a writer who’s not been writing. That is to say, anything I’ve written in the last few months is for something that’s personal to me, not for publication, or maybe one day to show a few specific people.

Reasons I’ve not been writing are many, including having got out of the habit owing to the wrist break last year (good now but not perfect with some aches), but mostly because I’ve been more focused on exercise and health issues, which would be easier if I gave in and sat at home, but I refuse to be a shut-in at my age. I may avoid people at times (or certain people all the time), but I enjoy getting outdoors and going to new destinations. It’s taken a long time for my mindset to get around to ‘screw this’ even though I’m going to struggle. I see an acupuncturist as a last resort because the health service can't do anything for me -- the only available meds made me worse. I foolishly didn't even realise I was dealing with a cronic pain issue, until my acupuncturist said, and then I felt like crying. But I choked it back and carried on, which is the way I've handled most things in life. Yes, sadly, life gets in the way sometimes, despite the best intentions.

As for the writing, I’ve got three projects in mind. Something for re-publication, a work in progress, and something new. I’ve started on the re-publication project to get used to writing again, and have proof-edited one chapter and come up with ideas to add to it. I’m not running a race but I’m now motivated to finish.

Reads May 2024

 The Old Man, Thomas Perry

This is a thriller with believable, interesting characters, though I found the pacing uneven. Even in a thriller, not all the chapters should be at speed, but I found the flow here a little off pace; I’d get used to one momentum before being thrust into another and back again. Still, I found the story absorbing. Anyone who expects to find the television series in these pages may be put off. Maybe that’s why I found this a little jarring. Much more happens in the series than here, and the ending wraps up a little abruptly. It’s hard for me to choose which version I preferred.

Agatha Raisin and the Murderous Marriage (audio), M.C.Beaton, read by Penelope Keith

In this one, things go awry when Agatha ignores the possibility that her estranged husband could still be alive. I found this instalment entertaining, possibly because the more Agatha tries to solve one murder another ensues and she finds herself at the heart of the investigation.

Everfound (Book 3 of the Skinjacker Trilogy), Neal Shusterman

Perhaps the best of the three, which means the author did his job well, increasing the tension as the overall story progressed, making this a trilogy worth finishing. He’ll (eagerly?) throw characters into the worst scenarios, perhaps situations that mean the end of them, often just when you love them the most. This shouldn’t put anyone off, though, as it adds tension and drama. I also liked that the author showed that even unpleasant characters have layers and motivation for what they do, something sometimes not highly dealt with in books for younger audiences. I grieved for those I earlier thought deserved their bad ends, which takes some doing no matter the age of the reader. As for the age of that audience, I find it difficult to judge, being as I read books like Oliver Twist when I was 7 or 8 years old. A satisfying series.

House of Leaves, Mark Z.Danielewski

This is a tough book to review without breaking it into parts. Johnny Truant tells us his story of reading the Navidson report as written by an old man called Zampano. I found Truant’s sections irritating, constantly going off on tangents and telling a story seemingly unrelated to the notebook he’s reading, especially his gratuitous sexual encounters; although at one point I wondered if these were as imaginary as some of his hallucinations of personal peril. However, Navidson’s story as ‘written’ by the character of Zampano grabbed my attention but alas, made me want to read those sections without the interference of the rest.

Then there are the annotations, again many of which seem to tell the reader nothing. At best, they lend a kind of authenticity to Zampano’s note taking, but are almost entirely unnecessary. The experimental style of the book is mildly interesting, but all this extraneous information is taxing and makes the book drag. Early in the ‘report’, Zampano includes almost two pages of names, which turn out to be (according to a footnote) names of photographers. I didn’t bother reading through an entire list of names, which were there for no apparent reason I could see. The references to echoes and labyrinths seem somehow to refer to the novel itself. As does the sentence ‘All solutions are necessarily personal’ (page 115) appearing to suggest the outcome of the story (good or bad) will be unique to the individual.

In another, the author notes a real or fictional article (I don’t know which) remarking ‘In the future, readers of newspapers and magazines will probably view news pictures more as illustrations than as reportage…’ referring to the inability eventually to distinguish between genuine images and those manipulated. But in this, and references to other technology, once again the writer seems to manipulate the reader, telling us we can trust nothing.

And what is the point of the boxes of text or blank pages, other than to suggest the maze of corridors and wide open spaces within the supernatural realms of the ‘house’ investigated in the Navidson report? Likewise later, lines the reader needs to read in the opposite direction, or from a corner, etc., appear to be representations of Navidson’s exploration.

Whilst reading I couldn’t help thinking that so many reviewers told others not to bother, and yet, the book remains acclaimed. On the one hand, the author has written something incredible when one considers the work of putting all the content together — that of Zampano’s notebook and Truant’s experiences while reading said book — with all the annotations. It must have been a pain to organise, and to print, especially when first published. But has the author, in actuality, written something ultimately pretentious with little substance, leaving readers floundering around trying to find personal meaning in a literary labyrinth? In that regard, the book almost reads like a joke played on everyone who gets lost in its pages.

Or does the book attempt to work like the maze Navidson explores? Psychological references try to explain the true meaning of Navidson’s claims, treating these details as the maze of Navidson’s mind. I enjoyed reading the Navidson house storyline, and there was a touch of creepiness in the odd place, but anyone looking for a horror story may be hard-pressed to find it here. Truant’s descent into madness seems insubstantial, although the conclusion of the book, when we learn more about his mother from her own written word, left me questioning if he was always so inclined to a breakdown. Ultimately, I understand the love/loathe reactions. This book will mean different things to different people — lots to some, nothing to others. This has to be one of the most peculiar books I’ve read.

Fabulous Fowey

I’m pleased to share that we recently returned from a much-enjoyed weekend break in Fowey. Having had a thoroughly good time, I thought I’d share some photos along with a few details.

This harbour town nestles in an area of outstanding natural beauty in Cornwall on the west side of a deep estuary facing Polruan, with the Fowey River flowing out to the sea and Bodinnick further upstream. Fowey is perhaps most famous for being home to author Daphne du Maurier, who lived at the blue and white house known as Ferryside, near the Bodinnick Ferry. However, the town offers much more than quaint streets, modern and ancient houses, and boats bobbing on the blue estuary waters. A stay here isn’t complete without taking to the water at least once, whether for a short boat trip or a longer one.

The roads in Fowey can be narrow and steep, with limited parking. We opted for an Airbnb with parking provided for convenience. For those wanting to stay right on the estuary, there are a few options with parking, or you'll need to leave your vehicle in a long-term public car park.

We enjoyed wandering around this delightful harbour town on our first evening, which allowed me to capture photos without many people around. The next day, we explored more, indulging in excellent food and walking to St. Catherine’s Castle and Readymoney Cove. Unfortunately, our visit to the small beach at the cove was marred by a strong stench, possibly because of nearby fertilising or a worse cause. However, I wouldn't let this deter anyone from visiting, as there are plenty of other attractions, especially for walking enthusiasts.

One highlight of our trip was the well-known 4-mile Hall Walk, which involves two ferry rides. We started with the large transport ferry to Bodinnick, walked around to Pont Pill (small but pretty), and continued to Polruan. From there, we took the smaller passenger ferry boat back to Fowey, where we ravenously devoured delicious fish and chips at Havener’s restaurant. The walk, which offers some fine spots for photo opportunities, took us a leisurely 2.5 hours, although it can be completed in 2 hours or less depending on fitness and weather. Given the up-and-down nature of the paths and steps, wellingtons or sturdy boots are recommended.

For food, as well as Havener's, I can also recommend Bufala pizza, Organicafe (lunch and cake), Game of Cones (ice cream), and cakes and pasties from the Quay Bakery.

For those looking to explore further, nearby places of interest include Lanhydrock, The Eden Project, and the Lost Gardens of Heligan. However, there's plenty to do for a fulfilling weekend in Fowey alone.

Reads April 2024

Everwild (Book 2 of the Skinjacker Trilogy), Neal Shusterman

This carries on where Everlost left off, being the middle book in a trilogy. The intended audience is a teen readership, but I still feel older and younger can read this depending on the person, even though the themes are much darker here. I’d heard some surprises were disturbing and although I wouldn’t go that far, I hadn’t thought I could feel at all uneasy or surprised. This story certainly evokes the question of just because a person (or in this case, afterlight) has an ability, does this mean they should use it? For the greater good, probably not. I found this book better than the first, and, therefore, intend to finish all three books, when after the first, I felt I might not bother with books 2 and 3.

Agatha Raisin and the Walkers of Dembley (audio), M.C.Beaton, Read by Penelope Keith

This outing flows along like most of the Agatha Raisin books, although this time Agatha and her neighbour (and possibly love-interest) James Lacey team up and move temporarily to a village to solve a murder pretending to be a married couple. Romance is in the air in more ways than one, and the end of this book sets up an interest question for the next book to come.

All the Fiends of Hell, Adam L.G. Nevill

Nevill has been among my favourite authors from my first read of his books. My favourite out of those I’ve read so far remains No One Gets Out Alive. This newest novel may well be a close second, although trying to choose the best of this author’s work is difficult. In this (possible) alien invasion, supernatural horror, there’s so much to appreciate. The author well uses every sentence, creates a solid plot, and introduces a protagonist who is an average man thrown into exceptional circumstances. One of the book’s strengths is this character’s reactions. Even when he’s frozen in indecision, making me scream, the reaction is appropriate, genuine, and realistic. Real people aren’t superheroes. When hurt, people writhe in pain, unable to always miraculously drag themselves to their feet. The bad guy reminded me of several people I’ve stumbled across and was an excellent love-to-hate antagonist. The world-building also performs well, creating a steady creeping atmosphere and breakdown of our world. Although the horrors unfolding take place on Earth, they feel terribly genuine. The question of what’s bleeding through into our existence, extraterrestrial, inter-dimensional, denizens of hell… you’ll be wondering about and believing in them all, gazing at the sky and hoping it never turns red.

Moonraker (audio), Ian Fleming, Read by Bill Nighy

I found this surprising. The best thing about this book is the female romantic interest. She’s quite different from what we expect from the Bond universe. Her indifference to Bond was refreshing and nothing about her was quite what we imagine of the average Bond ‘girl’. I thought no one could make a game of cards sound interesting, but Fleming conveys the tension of the players. Negatives are few and in part a sign of past times and writing styles. This exemplifies why a writer shouldn’t solely focus on one human movement, such as the shrugging of shoulders (and what other movements could shrug?), and sprinkle it throughout a book. And the focus on what people wear grew tiring. But these points are minor. Overall, this highlighted the contrast between the films vs reading the books. Of course, Bill Nighy expertly reads the audio, as one would expect.

Crusade in Jeans, Thea Beckman

I knew nothing about this book other than it was award-winning, and never having come across a historical children’s book before, I couldn’t resist having a look. I’ve seen some say the book suffers because of the translation, and I can easily believe this is true, as some stories don’t translate terribly well. Still, this based on fact fiction — an event in history I had only a vague concept of — is extremely readable and adventurous enough to entertain many children and some adults alike. It’s certainly memorable, and it’s an interesting concept — a fifteen-year-old stuck in the wrong time viewing the events with a modern mindset. In reality, early on, people would likely have killed such a visitor, but Dolf’s persistence in trying to save almost ten thousand children will capture the imagination of many. Having read this, I was ready to give up my copy, but I see it’s rare and selling for exorbitant sums.

Snowblind, Don Roff

This started out well, though I was less absorbed by the end. The author uses any cliched horror moments well by making them funny. A relatively light, fast read, that’s entertaining. I can imagine this could make a decent film if done well, and it’s apparently currently in production.

Ask Not What a Publisher Can Do For You

It’s an extraordinary realism for aspiring writers: many publishers and agents often seek authors who already possess a substantial following.

The search for publication can be akin to seeking that crucial first job — employers want experience, but how does one gain experience without a job? Traditionally, writers begin with shorter works, offering their skills for free, then progressing to paid assignments. With luck, perseverance, or a blend of both, they may eventually see longer works accepted, though not always or often with a major publisher. Many first publish with midstream or small press; indeed, it’s possible to manage successful careers with smaller publishers, and most writing credits improve a writer’s chances. Like with any job application, the writer builds a resume.

By saying publishers and agents seek writers with an audience, I’m not only referring to their preference for published authors. They have a keen interest in sales figures and, therefore, followership. Today, social media presence is an important and complex challenge. Writers often struggle to balance writing with networking, which, while occasionally enjoyable, can also be time-consuming, demoralising, and a tempting excuse for procrastination. Also, the effectiveness varies.

Accurate statistics to determine what works and what doesn’t are problematic. Success hinges on too many variables including but not limited to genre. A large following doesn’t always translate into sales, while some authors with modest audiences enjoy sturdy trading.

Publishers and agents naturally prefer writers with an existing readership. They desire assurance that taking on an author will lead to worthwhile sales. They’re increasingly interested in writers who can bring their own audience. Today’s publishers are asking not what they can do for the writer, but what the writer can do for them.

This shift partly explains the rise in self-publishing, and it has contributed to the perception that publishers prioritise writers based on what they can offer. But remember, this is not an absolute rule, and it’s important not to view the industry as heartless; we all share a love for the written word. Still, with this perspective, rejections become less shocking.

Sadly, these days some publishers do nothing, and writers will, at some point, need to ask the right questions. While tempting to sign the first hint of a contract, depending on the size of the publisher, it may be important to enquire about career prospects, potential sales, and marketing support. Understanding what questions to ask and when is more important than pressuring the publisher or asking obvious ones.

Update March 2024

Hi Everyone!

AT HOME:
We visited relatives for an extended Easter break and, for once, the journeys weren’t too bad despite a hold-up and diversion when returning home owing to a lorry on fire. Of course, these days, the moment one leaves the main road, there’s little to no help. Gone are the days when anyone puts out signs, and don’t bother relying on GPS as Satnavs try the utmost to turn you around to go back the way you came, placing you on the very road you need to avoid.

Monsoon season continues — we’re on our 8th storm of the year right now — and this is affecting a lot of the country. Farmers understandably complain about ruined crops, and business owners complain about lost bookings and fewer visitors. There’s been little in the way of a spring, though we could work on the garden occasionally.

FILM/TV:
Working our way through classic episodes of Doctor Who is interesting. At season 9 now, with Jon Pertwee, who was my first Doctor. I’d forgotten how argumentative this Doctor could be with Lethbridge-Stewart, though the smirk of amusement on the Brigadier’s face softens their confrontations. It’s a delight to see Katy Manning as the companion (Jo) being that she voiced the short audio story I did for Big Finish Productions. I remember her, of course, though I recall which episodes I’ve seen by the monsters more than anything. I’d also forgotten how adventurous Jo Grant was.

WRITING:
I am writing, though there’s not much to report right now, as I’m mostly doing some editing rounds and re-writes. Not very exciting but that’s how writing goes sometimes.
Stay happy and healthy!
Sharon x

Reads March 2024

Everlost (Book 1 of the Skinjacker Trilogy), Neal Shusterman

A teen book for 12 up that deals with death and, to some extent, what happens afterwards, although this isn’t a religious book. Everlost is a kind of purgatory for the souls of children who get knocked off course. The world the author creates with its various characters, creatures, and monsters is the best thing about it. However, there’s a lack of emotion from Nick and Allie over their death, to a point which struck me as unrealistic. There’s plenty to like about them, but there could have been more. Likewise, the suggestion of a budding romantic interest seems out of place so early in events. The book is more of an adventure plot than a teaching method, which is fine, though I feel it could have done more. Still, the book contains a great cast, and I’d still recommend this for children even though I feel some under 12s could read this. I was reading books like Oliver Twist when I was 8, so the nasty parts don’t seem to warrant such a high age rating for some. I’m sure well-read younger readers would enjoy this and it’s easily readable, containing some fabulous ideas, and a well thought out story world.

The Face, Dean Koontz

A re-read for me, and a well-plotted exceptional book for someone prepared to suspend disbelief and accept a storyline heavy on supernatural elements in a thriller involving a kidnap plot. Some of the descriptive passages could be called overwritten, and I can’t help feeling a little trimming would help the book. I liked the use of a child in this story, those chapters being some of the best. The parts which revolved around the antagonist(s) were a little heavy-going, but the various threads certainly keep the reader guessing with so many creating an intricate story overall. It’s hard to say more without giving the plot away.

The Girl of Ink and Stars, Kiran Millweed Hargrave

A young adult book that has enough of a story for adults to enjoy, with a story complex enough to stretch younger readers. The book’s beautifully presented with maps and patterned pages. The world building here stands out, though there’s something vaporous about the overall plot and some of the action sequences, which may confuse a younger audience. Even I found a couple of sequences difficult to picture; with all the drops off ledges, I expected broken bones. Although characters get hurt, they seem to have miraculous escapes. Still, there’s something charming and magical about this story. The young female lead shows more than her share of bravery, as do her young friends. I’m left wanting a grumpy old chicken.

A Stroke of the Pen, Terry Pratchett

A collection of lost stories written before Discworld. There are many hints of Terry’s developing style here and of his books to come. Light reading but charming, and every story left me smiling. Worthwhile for the dedicated Pratchett fan.

Green, Jay Lake

I’m unsure how I feel about this novel, which can easily be called an epic fantasy. The plot includes slavery, abduction, and mystical holy wars. Green is a girl whose path in life changes when her father sells her, but by the end of the book, the reader and the character have reason to question her destiny often. Mostly, I found the writing and story absorbing even though I don’t favour first person storytelling, but in parts I found the narrative lagged because of meticulous description, which includes all the training Green goes through. This made the book feel overly long despite much of the training being interesting. When we learn of the planned life path various people have for Green, there’s good reason to feel increasingly sorry for her. None of her choices appear to be wonderful, none of them simple. The sexual content never feels entirely natural or necessary, though perhaps realistic and handled well for those whose companionship is restricted. The details become somewhat vague when dealing with the various deities. I sometimes found Green’s character vs her age hard to believe despite her training, but it’s nice to see a young lead treated with the same respect an adult character would receive. For so long, the ‘rule’ has been a child lead marks a book for a young audience. That’s plainly not the case here, couldn’t be, and even though Green is in infancy when taken, we are privileged to her inner thoughts as she’s moulded into what others would make of her, while she battles to keep a sense of self. Strongly character driven, wonderful in parts, weaker in others, I’m pleased to have read this, but feel disinclined to read the rest of the trilogy, although Green makes for an interesting and capable female lead.

Update Feb 2024

 Hi Everyone!

AT HOME:
Living in the countryside isn’t always the holiday atmosphere people assume. Officially on the news the South West has had 3 to 4 times the amount of rain it usually has this time of year, so despite trying to get out and about more, some days have been a bit more like monsoon season making some outings impossible. We went for a meal one night, driving through mist and fog to get there. There’s been a lot of what locals call mizzle, some of it icy. There’s some snow at high altitudes. Trying to sort out the garage and make a start on the garden where we can.

FILM/TV:
Watched Saltburn mainly owing to all the shocked buzz about the film, but I worked out what was happening and didn’t see all that much to be perturbed about. The real world is far more startling. I can’t say much surprises me.

Both Asteroid City, and Everything Everywhere All At Once, though fun and entertaining, left us with a sense of WTH did we just watch?

It’s easy to see why Brendon Fraser's performance in The Whale was award-winning, and makes for compelling drama, throwing up a lot of reasons to question personal point of views, mostly for the good. Of course, The Whale doesn’t refer to his size, but to the emotional states of the characters. In particular, Ellie believes her father, Charlie, to be uncaring, and this has affected her attitude. The end is a little abrupt and purposely ambiguous, with various meanings. The film also showed how some people can react in negative ways to emotional upheaval, such as Charlie’s weight gain, a physical representation of the emotions that weigh everyone in the story down.

WRITING:
I at long last found the missing idea for another book, and I am thinking about re-editing another for a re-release, and am working out a new timeline for a book already written.
Stay happy and healthy!
Sharon x

Feb Reads 2024

Everyone In My Family Has Killed Someone, Benjamin Stevenson

All the clues needed are here, some so subtle it’s easy to pass over them, but it all ties together in the end. For me, it’s the style in which it’s all presented that made this book so engaging. I’m not usually a fan of first person and I’ve seen that the fictional author of the book talking to the audience has annoyed some readers, but I loved it. Others call it confusing and say it’s all been done before by better. That can be said for many books, but that doesn’t negate other novels. I wasn’t confused and don’t feel it’s fair to assess a book against another. All I know is I had fun with this. I did, however, set my sights on the suspect(s) before the denouement, but not early enough to spoil the outcome. I may check out other works by the author.

The Phone Box at the Edge of the World, Laura Imai Messina

Based on a real phone box people visit to talk to their departed loved ones, this is a gentle story even though its subject is one of dealing with loss; of how to open oneself up to a future in which one can find the right balance to live a hopeful and love-filled existence, even though genuine grief’s a close companion through life. Snippets and minor details intersperse the chapters to the section just read, which lend the book a certain unique charm and style. Yes, the story lingers afterwards, although I its emotional aspect failed to move me.

Citizen Alex (Let Freedom Ring), Bruce Campbell (ebook)

A lighthearted, short, fun read. The main character of Alexander Madison could easily be the lead in a series, and the writing shows Bruce’s sense of humour well. Maybe not as funny as I expected, but there were moments with political satire woven in.

The Lost City of Z, David Grann

The only trouble reading a book like this is it does nothing to lower the to-be-read mountain because I couldn’t help wondering if the author’s written any more than half as good. If only all my history lessons could have been so entertaining and informative. A factual historical adventure as gripping as fiction, the book follows in the wake of Percy Harrison Fawcett into the Amazon to answer the question of what happened to Fawcett and whether he was on the track of an amazing civilisation. Often brutal, this tale is also enlightening. We know all about the destruction of the rainforest in recent years, but this reveals how deep that ruination goes, of how early explorers began that devastation in pursuit of the land’s resources more years ago than most of us probably imagine. Many of the hostile tribes greeted these men in defence of that land and in response to the enslavement of their people. The treatment of indigenous races and pack animals is harrowing. The description of diseases and insectile hazards may make you itch. If I have one criticism, it’s that the version of the book I have had seriously small writing, which made the experience less pleasant, if pleasant is a word one can use when reading this type of book. Note: The film on Netflix based on the book takes only the main part of the story and dramatises it. The film’s worth a look, but I preferred the reading experience as it’s much more in-depth.

The Power, Naomi Alderman

I didn’t expect to enjoy this book, although ‘enjoy’ doesn’t feel like the right word. This is a dystopian look to a future in which women develop the ability to emit an electrical discharge, turning almost all women into a walking weapon. The resulting upheaval in societies and cultures all over the world plunge the planet into wars on both the small and large scale. There’s too much in this novel to go into without writing an essay. The meaning may well be different to different people, based on their own biased views. To me, it screams that there is no better or worse, just the corruption of power, and we should all be equal. But, sadly, though likely accurately, this shows that equality also includes all human traits, both good and bad. The book shows what people are capable of, questioning gender equality on a grand scale. It’s thought-provoking, though touches only lightly on a subject that has greater depth than you’ll find here. Some might feel it’s a feminist novel, but it speaks more eloquently of the failures in human nature. Creative and possibly provocative for some.

Consider Setting

Often a story’s need dictates setting, but think of your setting as a character as much as any of the beings that populate the story. Setting can be more than just choosing a place and time. Setting creates atmosphere and the writer can use it obviously or in contrast, or even to tell the reader something about the characters within the story world.

Consider a spooky old house. Straightaway, this conjures up images of darkness, bats flapping around the attic, spiders hanging from their webs and something menacing hiding out of sight around the corner. A house may bring to mind specific films or characters from the movies. In Psycho, the physical setting in which Norman Bates lives represents looming danger and his twisted mind, although the film sets out to mislead us. His home speaks of isolation, abuse. We feel sympathy for Bates, believing him to be a victim (which he is as much as those he kills). However, placing unusual happenings against a more mundane backdrop can have an equal or greater impact.

Or use a haunted house setting to tell a completely different story. Write a comedy, and deliberately use the unlikely setting as part of the joke. Whatever the story concerns, remember the atmosphere. There’s no need to be overly descriptive to build a story world, either, although sometimes writing the perfect, concise description takes longer than a meandering passage, but it’s worth practicing.

Often, the reader only needs to know the exact colour of a room or the pattern on the wallpaper if it has a direct bearing on the story or a character. That said, the way a character sees his or her room after returning from an absence of many years can give the reader a clear idea of the type of childhood this person has had. If the room is unchanged, kept as a shrine, this could tell the reader much about the character’s parents, or it could turn the story upside down and provide another unexpected and surprising reason for the room remaining untouched. Either way, the room itself becomes a tool to give us insight and therefore provide atmosphere. The room becomes as much a part of the story as the people the writer places in that world.

So, although it’s unnecessary to do this meticulously for every scene, when building the world around characters, consider settings carefully. Don’t simply erect a house with four featureless walls. The type of home the character lives in says much about him or her as much as the more obvious details do. Conversely, a character might live in rented accommodation where the roof constantly leaks and the walls are so thin arguments next door may as well be going on in the same room. If the character has a personal reason to be miserable, the accommodation can reflect their emotional state, cause it, or be the reason they’re forced to interact with others.

In one book of mine, I specifically choose to place several scenes in a garage where my MC (main character) works. At first glance, it’s easy to think my character simply needed a job, but the career I chose has always had a masculine persona, and this reflected his personality. The first evidence of his feelings comes to light in the garage, when the other men are trying to joke around. My other character’s sister confronts him in the garage more than once, and ultimately, something nasty happens there to make him face his feelings. There’s plenty of other action that takes place elsewhere in the book, but I deliberately set several pivotal moments in this setting because this is ‘his space’. It’s where he feels most comfortable, doing the thing he loves (taking care of cars), and where he feels most secure. In the garage, he’s a bloke’s bloke, and in charge. Suddenly, he’s insecure in the one place where he should feel safe. The sister’s wrath is an attack and his emotional state can find no solace in the one place where he’s always felt confident. He’s lost his sanctuary. His self-assurance takes another blow. He’s unanchored, insecure, and unable to find a moment’s peace from his emotions, even when working.

As with all writing, choose words carefully and deliberately, but this is especially true with setting. Light that glints ‘wickedly from the sharp edge of a blade’ leaves a distinct impression as opposed to a ‘soft amber glow of the sunset, made the knife gleam’ even though the second option may be as deadly — For example, this option also makes me think of two people preparing dinner about to have an explosive argument where the sharpest weapon will be words.

Don’t overdo adjectives and don’t forget to include more than one sense. People don’t just see; they touch, taste, smell, and hear, too. Apparently, smell can be one of the strongest things to invoke memory, so use it well. Likewise, music can create memory-recall more vividly than a photograph. Note: when using things like music, don’t simply use a favourite song. The story isn’t about you (the writer) — unless it actually is — it’s about the character and in this a writer has to consider age, context, history. If it’s a song she remembers from a time when she knew someone she’s never stopped loving, what age would she have been, and how long ago was it? What year? What played that year, in that month? Why did it resonate with her then and why now? Choose something historically accurate. Do the homework.

Such things also spark tension. If calling on a fastidious neighbour, and the putrid smell coming from the bin rankles your MC’s nose, the reader will surmise right away that something is wrong. An outside bin not pushed to the curb for collection can do this as effectively as an indoor bin a neighbour accesses with the use of a spare key when dropping off a regular shop, an errand run out of neighbourly goodness. In both cases, if this naturally clean neighbour hasn’t emptied the bin, then there must be a reason. Is the neighbour ill? Dead? Murdered? Does the rank smell coming from the bin herald the conditions in which they will find this person?

You can also use setting to place your story in time, but if writing a period piece, especially do your homework. Readers will know a writer has just made it up and guessed. It’s one thing to make a mistake, but quite another not to try at all.

And don’t be lazy. Don’t simply tell a reader that it was a rainy/sunny/cold/windy day. Describe the day and use it to bring something your character is doing, or feels, vividly to life. Is the weather that day in tune with your MC’s feelings, or irritating in contrast? Use setting to establish the scene or even to misdirect.

Update Jan 24

 Hi Everyone!

AT HOME:
Sorry there was no update for December, but not a lot to report. Trip to relatives, horrendous traffic, and a general hatred of travelling anywhere on a major holiday. A definite reason to exclaim one is getting too old for this. And January always seems to be a bit of a bleak month. Illnesses in services have interfered with our receiving various treatments or tests. And, despite my vow to not spend more on the garden, various plants await better weather so that they can go in the ground. There’s also a few more to come.

FILM/TV:
We’re continuing with a few series, including Doctor Who originals. So nice to see finally The Web of Fear, Doctor Who, Season 5 with Patrick Troughton as the first book in the spin-off series of novels featuring Lethbridge-Stewart was The Forgotten Son, written by Andy Frankham-Allen, which follows on from the yeti invasion by the great intelligence. A series I was fortunate to write for. Watching the old shows also made me realise what an excellent book Andy had written in his unofficial guide: Companions, Fifty Years of Doctor Who Assistants.

We finally got around to watching The Full Monty series (Disney+), and were pleasantly surprised. We thought it would be good, but it has real social commentary, funny, sad, and serious. Every episode flew by.

WRITING:
I have attempted to write again, somewhat delayed with one project potentially lost as I can’t find the article whence the idea sprung. Not as bad as losing actual writing, but a reason to grind teeth for sure. Nothing to report as I’ll be in the old rewriting phase for sometime on an existing draft.
Stay happy and healthy!
Sharon x

Jan Reads 2024

The House at Phantom Park, Graham Masterton (ebook)

I found this to be far from the author’s best work. In the past, scenes from a previous book of the author’s made me go physically cold, difficult to make me do as I don’t scare easily. This one carried a slight creepiness but didn’t scare. I liked the plot and these less than average ghosts impressed. A lot of info gets repeated in the narrative, particularly in conversations and within a short timeframe, reminding me of several shows that have unnecessary exchanges to remind the audience of what they already know. In style, this made me wonder if the book’s intended as YA horror, though some scene content seems a little too gory for that. I wanted to like this more than I did, though there were elements I appreciated.

Leave the World Behind, Rumaan Alam

This book seems to do a few of the things many publishers tell their authors not to do, so it took a little while to get used to the omnipresent head-hop style, knowing things the characters in the book can’t yet know, or never know. A social commentary on isolation, dependance on technology and society, wrapped up in tension, the themes here make one realise how helpless so many of us might be in the face of disaster; how most people require order and structure, and how close they come to panic, man turning on each other when these things come under threat. A suspenseful piece of writing. Often disturbing. (Note: the Netflix adaptation is good but I preferred the reading experience.)

Agatha Raisin and the Potted Gardener (audio), M.C.Beaton (read by Penelope Keith)

Agatha never learns from past mistakes; whenever she cheats, as with horticulture in this story, you know she’s going to be caught out. She is a mercurial character, though that’s partly what makes her fun. We like to see her fail as much as triumph. Her sense of right and wrong is her saving grace, though she has a sharper tongue than mind sometimes. In this, the sniping among the characters, not only Agatha, provides the most fun.

Rotherweird, Andrew Caldecott

A book that’s difficult to describe. Made me think of Gormenghast a little, in that it’s a hidden world in our world, somewhat though not entirely closed off because of a historical secret, and I’m sure the town is more fantastical in my imagination than the author intended because of that. I want to adore this book, but it requires concentration in part because of the wealth of characters. There’s so many don’t expect any real depth to them. In that, possibly the book is missing something, but to allow the audience to get to know them more deeply would require additional verbiage to an already long narrative and it’s already a little too much. I can’t help feeling that this book would benefit from some editing, though choosing what to cut (the author already states in the back that scenes and characters ended up on the cutting room floor), would require a well-trained eye, or perhaps several, as opinions will naturally vary. But the flaws are irritating because this should be, and is to a degree, an amazing book. I guess the broadest genre to place this would be fantasy, but to use one word to describe the work would be an injustice; if you can think of it, you’ll likely find it here. Fantastical is perhaps a better word. The book excels in scope and is mostly a triumph, but it's heavy going, and I used to read a lot of epic fantasy with no problems. I couldn’t help loving most of it and may tackle the trilogy in time, though for now, I feel as though my brain needs a rest.

By the Light of the Moon, Dean Koontz

A re-read for me as part of a book clearance, although I enjoyed this as much, if not more, than the first time around, so may hold on to it awhile. Not only a solid plot, but Koontz creates an enjoyable balance of characters here. Even the antagonist, with his self-serving justification, lifts the mad scientist level somewhat. Yes, it’s necessary to suspend disbelief, but then this is a supernatural thriller — what else should the reader expect except the miraculous? The penultimate part with Shep being a little bit ‘something’ (the best way I can describe it, giving nothing away) has always stood out for me and the urge to protect the protagonist’s autistic brother makes for plenty of suspense. 

Best Reads of 2023

Around this time of year I look at how many books I read the previous year, and choose the best of those reads. When I first looked at the list, I despaired that I would find any to recommend, but later on several cropped up. These are the few that stayed with me the most, though I've found it almost impossible to select an outstanding book of the year. If pushed I might select Patrick Ness's A Monster Calls for all the reasons stated below.

May

Roger Rabbit, Xerious Business, Gary K.Wolf
The fourth novel of the series and perhaps the best. This shows the human side of Jessica before she became a toon. I thoroughly enjoyed this, the first and fourth book possibly being my favourites. Don’t expect these books to follow on, one after the other. They each have their own stories and don’t pick up where the other left off. Take them for they are, as the author has written them, and they’re fun, though not as zany as the film. Don’t expect Disney here.

Welcome to Temptation, Jennifer Crusie
It’s marvellous to love a book as much on a re-read years later as much as when first read. This is one of those. I still rank this as Crusie’s best book. A steamy small town romance and mystery perfectly blended. This is a rare book where not one sentence seems out of place. With a perfect balance of characters (especially Sophie and Phin), and an ending that still made me laugh and smile, this book brings a bright meaning to carrying on family traditions. Top marks.

June

No One Gets Out Alive (audio), Adam Nevill, read by Colleen Prenderghast
I picked this up for two reasons: It’s one of my favourite horror novels (yes, I’ve already read this), and I’ve enjoyed audio books read by this reader. It’s best to think of it as a book of two halves, though both have their share of scares. Many may feel this book goes on too long, and this especially comes across in narration (and in the second half), but I still enjoyed this story immensely. Some skilled editing could shorten this by making some sentences more concise, but I’d struggle to find much, if anything, worthy of deletion. This tale works as a horror on so many levels. As a ghost story, societal commentary, the isolation and fear of a woman alone, and the helplessness anyone would feel trying to make others accept an unbelievable truth. Suspenseful.

A Monster Calls, Patrick Ness
I knew the story though this is my first reading of this book, but I doubt it will be my last. Technically classed as a book for children, it’s one all of us need to read. Almost all of us will be in young Conor’s position at some point — losing someone we love from an illness. We’ll experience emotions we hate ourselves for, and perhaps, don’t even understand. This book deals with all that and more. It also teaches forgiveness, especially for oneself, and that emotions don’t always surface in the best or most obvious ways. Children may lose some of the nuance depending on age but, if they don’t take to it, I’d recommend trying again as they grow older. Indeed, the older one is, the more this might tear the reader apart. It may well devastate adults more, as we understand the pain in these pages too well. I’d have to place this among the best books ever written, and it’ll break your heart.

Intensity, Dean Koontz
When Chyna Shepherd crosses paths with a killer, she has to fight for more than her own life. A re-read for me I’m pleased to say I would still rate among the author’s best books. While I might not have thought this was as perfect as I did on my first read many years ago, much of this book remains intense. Yes, the antagonist possibly feels excessive, but not as caricatured as some famous criminals real or invented. Whatever writers can dream up, reality often trumps. But I recall the protagonist being among the first truly strong female characters despite her making one or two stupid mistakes. Being human and ‘not thinking’ makes for a more realistic person. She’s not superhuman. There are spiritual elements, which is often the case in Koontz books, but there’s no reason to buy into these if the reader doesn’t want to. The same elements could be coincidence yet give Chyna strength and determination. Only her belief in them is important. There is some animal injury and death, so that may be a trigger warning for some; I could deal because ultimately what happened is still the killer’s fault, but realistic in context, and not gratuitous.

July

Making Money, Terry Pratchett
No doubt baffling, but I have a handful of Terry Pratchett books left to read, well aware that when I’ve read them, there are no more (although I can and may well read them again). Therefore, though it’s been out for many years, this is my first reading of Making Money. What Terry and Moist von Lipwig did for the post office, he does here for the banks. What more can I say? Fine comic writing. Wonderful satire. Outstanding as always with a cast of unforgettable characters, including a dog with a newfound and beloved toy.

August

Swan Song (audio), Robert McCammon, read by Tom Stechschulte
The easiest way to describe this book is as an epic analogy against war, especially nuclear war. One can’t help think of Stephen King’s The Stand while reading this, and, I imagine, vice versa, once having read both, but each deserves their own place on anyone’s bookshelves. I can’t say everything I want to say without giving away the plot and outcome, but I’m not sure the anti-hero attempt quite works for me, maybe because it seems so sudden and brief. Sadly, the outcome speaks so eloquently, showing us with a painful foresight that some people may never change, even though hope runs throughout. There was a moment where I rolled my eyes when they get to their final destination and who they find there, but that soon dissipated when the author flipped the story defying my expectations. A head hopping but absorbing narrative worthy of recognition.

A Man Called Ove (audio), Fredrik Backman, read by Joan Walker
Having recently watched A Man Called Otto based on this book, I revisited this story by listening to the audio. I loved reading the novel and still have it on my shelves. The audio did nothing to disappoint. At first glance, one might wonder why they’d want to read the story of a grumpy old man, but Ove is not all he seems and his life is one to be celebrated. One thing the book does better than the film is give us his wife’s point of view. We get to learn of the qualities she saw in him, long before a new family moves into the neighbourhood. We also learn more about his background. If you liked the book, there’s no reason not to enjoy the story in other formats. If you’ve only seen the film, watch or listen to the book, and enjoy how Ove touches the lives of others.

September

Scratchman, Tom Baker
Reading this made me feel like Alice falling down the rabbit hole. Bizarre. Surreal. Far more wild and wacky than I was expecting, but who can fault the wild and wonderful imagination of Tom Baker? His sense of humour shines through? The theme of the book is fear, and this resonates by the end. I’m tempted to get the audio, just to hear this brought to life by the author/Doctor.

Dec

Road of Bones, Christopher Golden
A road named because of the number of prisoners who died there forced to work by the Soviet Union, bodies left in the ice in Siberia. I’ve read Christopher Golden before but can’t remember when I enjoyed one of his books as much as this. The unusual setting is as much a character as any of the people that populate the story. I felt for any of them, even those I barely got to know. A short slow start after which momentum rarely lets up. The plot is fantastical, but I felt so immersed in it, I found it easy to suspend disbelief — easier, no doubt, because of the wilderness. Not what I expected, but better for it. The only slight negative is I expected the ‘road’ to have more to do with the major story, whereas it’s more of a subplot.

The Red House Mystery, A.A.Milne
The one and only detective novel written by the author of Winnie the Pooh. This is light-hearted and fun. The amateur detective asks all the right questions and comes up with all the right pro and con answers. This kept me guessing until almost the end, when I worked out what had happened but not why, though the clues were there. I’m just sorry there’s only the one, though for this to be a series, A.A.Milne would have had to improve with each book. Even if this was an author just having a little fun, this would have been a solid effort of its day. It understandably has a ‘classic’ feel. I thoroughly enjoyed this, though mostly because of the author’s excellent style. Makes me want to read my childhood Pooh books again.

 

Dec Reads

Lost for Words, Stephanie Butland

An enjoyable read, set in a bookshop, though Loveday Cardew’s big secret wasn’t so secret to me. I easily worked out what was coming, although other elements were more of a surprise at the end. I’m not a fan of first person, so this, together with the way the book is structured, meant it took me over 100 pages to truly drop into Loveday’s world. Once I did, I found this more enjoyable. I liked the characters, good and bad, and in-between — like people, characters aren’t always perfect citizens; that would be boring. I struggled a little with why Loveday found it so hard to confess her story to ‘anyone’, even a single soul — I would hope we’d be more understanding these days — but then she’s worked so hard to cut herself off from any form of risk. She says one horrible thing towards the end that jarred, though it’s so small it didn’t put me off the book — that ‘people are imperfect’ thing again, and we all have an uncharitable or selfish thought occasionally. I liked the locations in the book. The plot and conclusion were satisfying. Archie was a fun addition to the cast.

Road of Bones, Christopher Golden

A road named because of the number of prisoners who died there forced to work by the Soviet Union, bodies left in the ice in Siberia. I’ve read Christopher Golden before but can’t remember when I enjoyed one of his books as much as this. The unusual setting is as much a character as any of the people that populate the story. I felt for any of them, even those I barely got to know. A short slow start after which momentum rarely lets up. The plot is fantastical, but I felt so immersed in it, I found it easy to suspend disbelief — easier, no doubt, because of the wilderness. Not what I expected, but better for it. The only slight negative is I expected the ‘road’ to have more to do with the major story, whereas it’s more of a subplot.

The Red House Mystery, A.A.Milne

The one and only detective novel written by the author of Winnie the Pooh. This is light-hearted and fun. The amateur detective asks all the right questions and comes up with all the right pro and con answers. This kept me guessing until almost the end, when I worked out what had happened but not why, though the clues were there. I’m just sorry there’s only the one, though for this to be a series, A.A.Milne would have had to improve with each book. Even if this was an author just having a little fun, this would have been a solid effort of its day. It understandably has a ‘classic’ feel. I thoroughly enjoyed this, though mostly because of the author’s excellent style. Makes me want to read my childhood Pooh books again.

Growing Pain and Other Stories, Paul Tremblay

This book is going to be polarising from loving to loathing it, and all the levels between. Some stories felt as though they needed more of a resolution. Others read like a metaphor. Then there comes the “What the hell did I just read?” portion. A few certainly linger in the mind. I loved three — Where We All Will Be, Her Red Right Hand, It’s Against the Law to Feed the Ducks — liked others, hated none, but felt somewhat indifferent to a few. These stories are experimental, even slipstream in parts, and unique to this author’s style.

Into 2024!

 

I don't believe resolutions really work, but I have plans after a pretty disastrous 2023 health-wise with a wrist/hand out of typing action for 6 months. I've got to get the decorations down and house tidy, plus I have appointments this week. I also need to tidy up the mess of files on my laptop. Then I 'plan' (not resolve), to begin exercising again -- nothing new, just returning to what I used to do -- and to start writing. Hoping all your plans go well.