Book review: Closed Casket by Sophie Hannah

Thursday, September 15, 2016 Permalink

I need to confess that I had no idea Sophie Hannah had revitalised Agatha Christie’s famous Belgian detective and his little grey cells until this book appeared on a listing. It was only then I discovered Hannah had previously released The Monogram Murders, featuring Hercule Poirot, in 2014 – almost 40 years after the passing of Dame Agatha.

I adore Agatha Christie. I’ve read all of her books a million times. At least. Once upon a time I used to call them my bath books as I could read a novel in the bath in an hour. (Which was before I sat in the bath for hours on end reading!)

three-half-stars

Book review: Missing, Presumed by Susie Steiner

Friday, March 11, 2016 Permalink

I love flawed characters. And I’m sure I’m not the only one. Of course there can be a fine line between someone having the odd idiosyncrasy and someone who’s downright psychopathic… in an evil, rather than quirky way #obvs!

There needs to be something redeeming or likeable about them, but – in general – the odd weakness or foible makes characters more relatable (and usually more enjoyable).

In Missing, Presumed, we meet (key player) DS Manon Bradshaw on a date with someone she met online. It’s a great introduction as well get an early understanding of her no-nonsense and kinda screwy take on the world.

three-stars

Book review: The Ice Twins by SK Tremayne

Wednesday, January 28, 2015 Permalink

Sarah and Angus Moorcroft have the perfect life. And the perfect family. They’re the envy of everyone they meet. They’ve got great jobs and gorgeous blonde blue-eyed identical twins, 6 yr olds, Lydia and Kirstie – not to mention a loveable matching dog. And then tragedy strikes and Lydia dies in an unfortunate accident.

We meet the family about fourteen months later and things aren’t going well. We eventually learn that Sarah all-but-shut-down after Lydia’s death; Angus started drinking heavily, punched his boss and lost his job; and Kirstie is a shell of her former self.

three-half-stars