In December I read six books, all of which were fiction–
The Age of Reinvention by Karine Tuil (Scribner) – This tells the story of a Manhattan lawyer whose enviable lifestyle is not all it seems to be. Featuring stolen identities and a love triangle it is an intriguing tale of identity that raises a lot of points about the complexity of the modern world. It is a suspenseful, powerful story.
For The Most Beautiful by Emily Hauser (Doubleday) – The first in the ‘Golden Apple’ trilogy focusing on Greek Mythology, Emily Hauser’s forthcoming debut novel is a retelling of the story of Troy – Full Review Coming Soon
A Boy Called Christmas by Matt Haig (Canongate) – Inspired by a question that Matt Haig’s son asked of his Dad, this is the charming story of what Father Christmas was like as boy. It contains all the classic elements of Christmas stories that we are familiar with enhanced with imagination and a fascinating array of characters. Destined to be a Christmas classic to enchant readers young and old it is a magical tale that is complimented by beautiful illustrations by Chris Mould.
The Ballroom by Anna Hope (Doubleday) – Anna Hope’s second novel is a story of love in an unlikely setting. Hindered by the high walls of a mental asylum Ella Fay meets John Mulligan when they dance together at the ballroom, the only chance each week for the men and women to spend time together. Here, there love story begins in difficult circumstances. The Ballroom is a heart-breaking story that also touches on the shocking treatment of mental illness just a hundred years ago.
Influence by Chris Parker (Urbane Publications) – A fantastic psychological crime thriller that focuses on how people can be controlled and influenced. Marcus Kline, an expert in communications and ‘reading’ people is called upon to help his detective friend, Peter Jones, as he investigates a series of gruesome murders. It is a gripping story that raises interesting points about the workings of the human mind.
Nightblind by Ragnar Jonasson (Orenda Books) – Chilling, atmospheric crime novel set in the small Icelandic town of Siglufjordur. The second in the Dark Iceland series, Ari Thor is back and investigating an attack on a fellow police officer. A beautifully written, gripping mystery.
Reviews of my December reads can be found in my December Archive or by following the links above.
the owl on the bookshelf 