“Cages are evil things, Gabriel,’ she said softly. ‘They come in all shapes and sizes, and the bars are made of hate and envy and love. But sometimes “Cages are evil things, Gabriel,’ she said softly. ‘They come in all shapes and sizes, and the bars are made of hate and envy and love. But sometimes you have to find your freedom within a cage, as I did”
Catch the moon Mary is a fascinating book that moved effortlessly through its storyline conjuring up so many different emotions in the reader. Sometimes it was dark and twisty, sometimes it was witty and uplifting, whilst other times it was heart breaking and optimistic but core to the story is Mary’s journey, as she uses music to heal the mental and physical wounds inflicted on her by others. Whilst this cage represents Mary’s personal prison, her music is her safe haven as she also taps into her spiritual side to cope and survive.
Mary has been abused by her father, leaving her isolated, vulnerable, and lost in the world but possessing an impressive talent for music, she is entrapped into committing herself to an unearthly power, an angel, a beacon of light. Gabriel, who will stop the abuse if she submits to his will. A vulnerable Mary unwittingly puts faith in her divine friend because as she plays for him “… a great wave of music lifted her out of her body and deposited her soul in another world. From then on, the music came for her every time and took her to glorious places”.
The story is one of transformation, bringing together the healing power of music and the human spirit, as Mary learns to cope with abuse, hurt, betrayal, loss, and disappointment as she builds new relationships, develops in her music, and begins to understand the likelihood of never having Gabriel for any length of time in her life, or was he ever in her life in the first place??
Catch the Moon Mary is an incredibly unique way to convey some very important themes of the abuse – their effects and the journey of the victims. At times emotional and incredibly thought provoking, the use of magical realism proved to a perfect way to construct and tell a story of abuse, mental illness, and a young and fragile girl trying to cope in a world when those she loved had betrayed her. My advice to you as the reader, is try and make the connection with Gabriel, then roll with the story and expect something different and all will be revealed.
Catch the Moon Mary was quite ingenious as Wendy Walters created a fairy tale type story for adults to deliver a powerful message. There is an angelic and dreamlike quality to the writing, yet the story dealt with some very real themes of abuse, loss, betrayal, death and mental health. The writing is exquisite, the descriptions wonderfully vivid and the sentences just felt they were laced with chocolate.
The underlying themes were never overplayed and left the reader to add their own interpretation to the story to some extent. And why? Because we are all a collection of our own unique experiences. Our coping mechanisms and personal barriers make us who we are and as such - unique. Mary uses music and creates someone to help her cope with her own personal trials. A place in her mind where she feels safe and can survive.
There are so many quotes I highlighted on the kindle the writing was that beautiful. So immerse yourself in the elegant prose, enjoy the stunning writing, the touching story, and the powerful messaging because when I finished, I thought ‘what a beautiful way to deal with a difficult subject and the writing is stunning’.
Thank you to Peter for putting this on my radar, and to Wendy for a beautiful book that leaves an imprint on your heart and has you thinking about the story a long time after reading. And "If Music be the Food of Love, Play on" _________________________________
This paragraph has been added since completing the trilogy (11th Oct 22). I re-read most of 'Catch the Moon, Mary' as a refresher going into the final book, and what a wonderful trilogy this has been.
I loved the creative way the author told this story of Mary in 'Catch the Moon, Mary' and 'Paradis Inferno' books. Yes, the reader has to climb into this world of magical realism but then the author takes us on a journey of the senses as we feel, see and hear everything that helps us understand Mary, her fragility, struggles and her emotional recovery and survival.
The author Wendy Waters has added a comment about her inspiration for writing the book which is incredibly touching because she helped abused victims in need and saw the person, the scars and their needs while others failed these victims. A remarkable backdrop and story that came from that experience. It adds more context and colour to what is already a wonderful and powerful book.
How would I sum up these books?
Immersive, absorbing and enthralling. Why?, because of the beautiful writing that is almost hypnotic and alluring. Yet we are dealing with some heavy themes of abuse, that never feels overly morbid because this composition is also about healing and the power of music.
Touching, soulful and simply stunning, and one I do not hesitate in recommending....more
Described as epic and epic this book certainly was. A standout novel in the world of dark fantasy with a blockbuster of a story, and an adult’s dark fDescribed as epic and epic this book certainly was. A standout novel in the world of dark fantasy with a blockbuster of a story, and an adult’s dark fairy tale, that will leave you speechless, sad, bewildered, thinking and reeling. So, be advised dear reader that the words on this page speak of a girl who “… was to murder as maestros are to music. Who did to happy ever afters what a sawblade does to skin” a ten year girl who vows to the avenge the deaths of her family.
The Plot
“Never flinch" A cold whisper in her ear. "Never fear. And never, ever forget.”
Were the chilling and audacious words from Mia’s mother as they both look to the hangman’s theatre where Mia’s father is executed as a traitor. And with her mother taken in chains, the Corvere estates given to the awful Justicus Remus. And Julius Scaeva, consul of the Itreyan Senate, ordering Mia to be drowned in the canals like some unwanted kitten. Her whole world is undone in a single turn. With her baby brother’s death to soon follow in the dungeons along with her mother in darkness and in isolation, ten-year Mia vows to the avenge the death of her family.
Mia joins the Ashkahi arts along with 17 other hopefuls, including Tric, her love, her companion, her rival, but only four will be selected as master in one of the four halls of the church with considerable proficiency needed in other areas of study, of resourcefulness, of science or of words.
And the old man’s lessons begin ‘Nothing is where you start. Own nothing. Know nothing. Be nothing.’ ….‘Why would I want to do that?’... ‘Because then you can do anything.’
The story is one of strength, resolve, but also of sadness, betrayal, suspicion, as the brutal competition ensues and the contestants diminish, some who die and others who fall severely wounded, as they are outsmarted, out manoeuvred, and beaten by the few victors who were smart enough to use their mind and weakness as their weapons along with the physical strength and endurance.
My comments and review
Having been introduced to fantasy this year, I am delighted to finish the year with the best fantasy novel I have probably ever read. Truly amazing.
The plot building was sensational, the contest if you will, was not about people in constant combat, the book brought so much intrigue because the contestants needed to use their minds to solve the riddle and win their place among the elite. We even have room for love between Mia and Tric which was a welcome addition to lift the story from some dark moments when it was needed.
The story telling was fantastic and captivating with a great explosion of imagination. The authors writing style really worked for me, sometimes course and explicit, but the wording and the writing brought the scenes to life with the most wonderful sensory and vivid descriptions. The reader was left with no work to do only enjoy and be uplifted, saddened, and captivated by this wonderful story.
“But after all, this tale is only one of three. Birth and life and death. So take my hand now. Close your eyes. And walk with me”. Tells of more to come in this story....more
Five 'deceptive' stars for a truly fascinating book that cuts across multiple genres and tells a story of nine people each with a secret and a dark paFive 'deceptive' stars for a truly fascinating book that cuts across multiple genres and tells a story of nine people each with a secret and a dark past that they will do anything to conceal. But what will catch up with this Company of Liars first. The plague or their own lies?
“My last lie had been the most honest, the most honourable of them all, for there is an art greater even than the creation of hope. The greatest art of all is the destruction of truth.”
The Plot
As the cloak of death shrouds England, an unlikely group of people join ‘Company’ and as they gradually grow in numbers, we learn something of their backstory or the image they want to present. For all have one thing in common, they have all lied about who they are creating a ‘Company of Liars. However, they agree to work together for mutual benefit and protection as they attempt to outrun the Black Plague, as it indiscriminately claims thousands of lives in the year 1348.
Camelot the one-eyed Peddler of relics and creator of hope, is joined by the magician Zophiel; Cygnus, the one-armed storyteller; Rodrigo and Jofre the musicians; Pleasance the midwife / healer, the strange, silent albino child with translucent white skin called Narigorm who deals with runes, and finally Osmond the painter and his pregnant wife, Adela.
In a country governed by fear and superstition, the nine are driven on by the plague and the need to get out of danger. In an effort to avoid danger they constantly move on to new places, but all the time they are haunted by the cry of the wolf which spells out certain death for one of the merry band, in the most violent and savage way. They all heard the wolf because they had all lied, and in that all nine were cursed and would face death unless someone is able to end the curse.
My Comments
The books many threads made this more challenging to review, was it a retelling of Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales' – yes kind off sort off. Then I settled on it being an enthralling story of mystery and intrigue inspired by Chaucer's 'Canterbury Tales' but darker. But what is it?
A Company of Liars is one of the most fascinating books I have read in a long time. It cuts across genres, and whilst purporting to be a book of the plague, which it was not, it offers up elements of the supernatural, an historically informed book encapsulating medieval England and the black plague, a dark tale with an ever present sense of horror where it feels the nine are being haunted, and an eclectic mix of people with a story, with a secret and a curse bringing them perilously close to death as their numbers diminish.
It takes a while to get going as the nine come into the story and the initial interactions and suspicions play out. If there is one thing I didn’t like about the book, it was the concept of someone “whipping up a mist”. It felt a bit corny but thankfully in one section of the book. However, this is overshadowed by a story that is atmospheric, complex, and beautifully written. Simply brilliant.
This is one of those 5-star books I have read this year that I would recommend to anyone. The characterisation and interaction between the nine is thrilling and makes this book. And that’s no “Lie”...more
"Several deadly sins, many ways to win, after the bell chimes 5 times, your deadly pursuit begins"
To my Goodreads friends, you won’t want to miss this"Several deadly sins, many ways to win, after the bell chimes 5 times, your deadly pursuit begins"
To my Goodreads friends, you won’t want to miss this jaw dropping, cheek clenching, heart pumping, psychological thriller, and to everyone else this is a phenomenal page-turner that will get under your skin and haunt the safe places in your head. Thank you, Pat, whose great review, and recommendation led me to this book, and how satisfied was I?.
Lethal Game is sinister and fast paced from the outset as we are introduced to players and rules of a board game “Escape”, a horror game powered by terror, fear and survival as a serial killer brings to life the lethal game where only one contestant can come out alive. However, this killer is not inspired by power or driven by the enjoyment from a deadly game, they are motivated by other reasons that will leave you spinning and reeling with the twists and turns that are in abundance as the fear just oozes from the pages.
Lethal Game was a book reminiscent of Seven (Brad Pitt), with a really clever and intelligent plot, deeply drawn and some deliciously evil characters. A contest where the contenders are carefully selected, the rules and outcomes are at the discretion of the “Captor” as the Puppet Master” exacts his revenge on the unsuspecting. However, the real game playing starts to emerge as we begin to learn that these seemingly unrelated deaths are in some way connected. With the detective duo Norris and Rose, on the trail of the “Captor, it becomes equally obvious that they are also pawns in this Lethal Game.
‘He sat there and told us the game had changed. He told us it was being played against the police. He said the police had been given chances to stop this all the way through…. He was talking to us directly. That was our chance to stop him, there and then … He was right in front of us”
This was a fabulous adrenaline pumping book that was full of anticipation from beginning to end. The way a thriller should be written, there was enough theatre in the game, but it was not convoluted, the characters were evil but not depraved, some of the scenes were violent but not gruesome and the plot was on a different level to most. Simply brilliant and highly recommended...more
A spook-tacular read for Halloween month, but a masterpiece for any time.
As Dracul's sinister grin and evil piercing eyes focus on Bram, his words wilA spook-tacular read for Halloween month, but a masterpiece for any time.
As Dracul's sinister grin and evil piercing eyes focus on Bram, his words will echo for generations to come “With the final beat of your heart you will take your place at my side”.
Dracul is the most haunting story narrated through the journals and letters of Bram, his brother and sister. As a prequel to the legend that is Dracula it doesn’t disappoint in creating a story of love, loss, pain, sacrifice, and horror.
Bram was a child of poor constitution and from the age of seven is isolated from living the life of a normal boy because of his prevailing health. Devoted to his sister, but cared for by Nanny Ellen Crone, Bram makes the most unexpected and miraculous recovery from his longstanding illness, after treatment from Nanny Ellen. The only ailment is an ever-present itch on his wrist and two small pinpricks an inch apart just below the wrist bone over the vein. His fate is sealed.
After several mysterious deaths and the disappearance of Nanny Ellen, we find Bram at 21 locked inside a tower with his holy water, mirrors and crucifixes as the only means of protection and his journal to keep him sane. The force of evil was closing in, darkness loomed while the sounds of evil that engulfed him could be heard night after night,
“I felt the forces of nature in the night air, the delicate balance of life and death.” He says
There was an ever present sense of evil that came through on every page, and an endless expectation that something is about to happen, and it does. The drama was intense, the writing dark, lingering, and haunting. I think Dacre Stoker did an amazing job (in conjunction with the co author J.D Barker) of picking up this golden thread from his great uncle Bram Stoker and spun it into the black, haunting and ghoulish tale that is Dracul and the birth of Dracula.
It is believed that Bram Stoker, told some publishers that the book was not a work of fiction, to stoke up interest, which generated a cult following that lasts to this day and piqued the interest of many people then and over the years. Because the tale of Dracula has been around for so many years, so many have come to believe it to be true but it was only a work of fiction wasn’t it?
“Some would say it was chance she found me now, as I am about to take my leave and begin work on a new novel a new novel about something very old – an evil amongst us, a truth of the most incomprehensible sort. Coincidence others would say.
I would disagree with both, for I believe in neither”.
Ah honest tip of this one. I know a lot about Dracula, as my favourite horror character I have read the books and watched every film I think available. I believe this enhanced my overall reading experience here, and when some of the chapters lingered I was able to conjure up images that helped when the content was lacking. I would suggest maybe watch a film so you know what the book is creating - a monster, with or without a soul?
A fantastic and timeless book just like the sequel....more
What could be worse for a woman (person) than to be the victim of a brutal rape where the savage deed is not the only violation, but the resulting rapWhat could be worse for a woman (person) than to be the victim of a brutal rape where the savage deed is not the only violation, but the resulting rape examination and the ensuing court case can be as intrusive and traumatic for the victims as the ugly deed itself. However, what could be more harrowing for a man (person) than to be wrongly accused of rape, because with such accusations the guilt is often assumed when the allegations are made, by the press, by the public, making it difficult for the wrongly accused to clear their name and reputation completely. “For truth is truth to the end of reckoning” (Shakespeare)
Four Muslim boys, Amir and his 3 friends, are steadfast in their defence and claim to be the victims of false accusations, while Jodie a sixteen-year-old disabled white girl is equally unwavering in her claims that she was lured under false pretences to a warehouse and then raped. Someone is a victim, and someone is lying, but who?. A fascinating subplot to spice things up is the backlash Jodie’s solicitor receives from the Muslim community for defending a white girl against their own.
The story takes us into the court room for an explosive trial that will reveal conflicting accounts, obsessions, twists, turns and hidden secrets, and explosive court room scenes that will leave you drained, emotionally exhausted, but gripped. Because both accuser and accused, are credible in their defence and convincing in their accusations, but both have gaps in their accounts of what happened that night and are even doubted by their own friends and family.
This is an immensely powerful and thought-provoking story that will have you engrossed from start to finish and must be the best book I have read, with this difficult subject matter. The author did a fantastic job at developing a fast-paced story that was absorbing, evocative, unsettling, and disturbing as we struggle to work out who is actually telling the truth. The character development was superb. All were flawed and complex in some way whilst their true selves were revealed to us gradually as the suspense kept going and growing through the book. A stunning plot with a significant discovery at the end that will leave you reeling, questioning and angry.
The book provides a dramatic and credible insight into the traumatic experience for the accused and accuser in rape trails which is why so many rapes never make it to court in the UK. A dreadful indictment in itself.
Highly recommended and a brilliant book by Kia Abdullah....more
Hamnet is a triumph, a masterpiece and a fantastic work of fiction interwoven with real historical even To read or not to read, that is the question?
Hamnet is a triumph, a masterpiece and a fantastic work of fiction interwoven with real historical events. I would give 6 stars if I could. If “to read” is the question then “Oh Yes” must be the answer.
William Shakespeare marries Anne Hathaway at 18, she in her mid-twenties. Soon they have a daughter Susanna, followed by twins, a boy and girl, named Hamnet and Judith. Then one of the children dies. This is what we do know about Shakespeare and a very ambitious story for Maggie O’Farell to take on and make her own. The story is wonderfully narrated around the family but particularly Agnes / Anne Hathaway and her role married to her husband William Shakespeare.
The author writes, "two events need to occur in the lives of two separate people, and then these people need to meet." A cabin boy on a ship, unknowingly picks up the infected flea in his red neckerchief and Hamnet's sister Judith eagerly unpacks a parcel delivered to a Stratford seamstress. Their fate is sealed.
Agnes had married for love, but like all great love stories, tragedy threatens to tear them apart with the loss of one of their children and her husband's prolonged absence from their home to find work at the theatres in London.
Agnes is warned, by her mother-in-law, that the newest work by her husband is a play named after their son. Furious she sets off to London to confront him but is surprised to observe the pitiful surroundings he lives in, and not living the lavish lifestyle Agnes had imagined. It is only then she begins to realise the grief and sorrow felt by her husband, after the loss of their child. As Agnes sits in the audience to watch his play, she can see for the first time the tapestry of their lives embroidered with every event and the visions of sorrow and joy using threads skilfully woven to capture the heartache and personal tragedy. To other’s Hamnet is a great play but to Agnes and her husband it is everything that captures their pain and loss on a canvas for all the world to see.
It takes a gifted author to make the story sing from the pages in a way that conjures up such emotions in its readers. Hamnet is one of those books where not a single word should be written or worded differently, it possesses a dream like quality, and entices you as the reader to play your part for Shakespeare is never named as the husband, our imagination takes us there.
This is one of my favourite books this year and possibly ever in this historical period. It is very difficult for a book to move me in this way, but Hamnet hit the right spot and managed to have me choked up at the end. Simply gorgeous, sad, and painful but a remarkable story....more
The well-known saying “what doesn’t break you makes you stronger” is brought to life through the story of Circe, a tragic, but unyielding heroine in GThe well-known saying “what doesn’t break you makes you stronger” is brought to life through the story of Circe, a tragic, but unyielding heroine in Greek mythology.
Circe is daughter of Helios the god of the sun, but short in many of his godlike qualities, nor does she possess her mother’s beauty. Shunned and casts aside as the least talented of this mighty dynasty, Circe starts to hone her skills in witchcraft that results in her being exiled to an uninhabited island to see out the rest of her days. “…At least I will not have to hear that voice of your anymore”, was the last thing her father said to her.
Yet Circe refused to be “.. ground down into the earth” and instead cast spells over the island and its beasts, so when the gods and mere mortals started to arrive, she was more than equipped to stand strong alone. We see the strength and endurance of a girl left to rise from the depths of despair to a woman and mother, that is a match for any god and mortal, who could bargain and shape her life and that of her son.
Having acquired the knowledge and intelligence that most believed impossible, and knowing her father’s weaknesses, Circe summons her father for one last battle, to be set free from the curse of exile. Having miscalculated his daughters’ wily ways, Helios reminds Circe that she is the worst of his children, Circe replies to her father god Helios,
“I have a better idea. I will do as I please, and when you count your children, leave me out”
I loved this admonishment from Circe. It sums up the strength, courage and determination of the girl who had to live through unthinkable moments, to ride out in the wildness, the loneliness, and the fear, for she now wears the mask of courage and survival.
Packed with all the ingredients of a fantastic book, with stories of love, betrayal, courage, death, gods, curses, spells and endurance and a story that is beautifully written. Highly recommended...more
The Night Swim is an unforgettable and unsettling psychological thriller involving the sexual assault and rape of 2 girl’s decades apart, but in the sThe Night Swim is an unforgettable and unsettling psychological thriller involving the sexual assault and rape of 2 girl’s decades apart, but in the same small town of Neapolis. Although time has moved on, we see an imperfect justice system, but outside it we witness a society shackled with all the same prejudices, predicaments, and polarised opinions.
Rachel, a true crime podcast host, covers the controversial trial of Scott Blair, golden boy and Olympian hopeful, but finds herself drawn into solving the rape and murder of Hannah’s sister, Jenny, 25 years before.
In the present-day trial, a sixteen year-old girl, Kelly Moore, is being asked to describe, in detail, in public every violent, traumatic, and gruesome moment of that night on the beach, in the hope that maybe, just maybe, she will get justice.
In the case of Hannah’s sister, years before, the case is much more difficult. For it has been ruled as accident / suicide. Even Hannah has struggled to come to terms with what she witnessed that dreadful night on the beach. For she “.. didn’t know how to explain things that I was too young to understand” . Now she will not be silent, but no one will even acknowledge that a rape or murder had taken place. We learn that detectives at the time failed to acknowledge that the bruising on Jenny’s body was consistent with an attack, and no one sees the need to reopen the case.
We are drawn to the comment by one of the key people in the case “I might not look like much. And I may not have much. But there are a lot more dangerous people than me in this town. They wear suits and looks respectable, but there ain’t nothing respectable about the things they are willing to do to get what they want. Nothing, and no-one will want to take on one of the most influential families in Neapolis but “… sometimes a man has to speak up or be responsible for the repercussions of his silence”.
It takes a brave author to undertake a subject so sensitive, but exceptionally rewarding when they get it right. Because this novel cannot fail to open peoples eyes to the torment endured by the victims of sexual abuse and rape and the harrowing process of the court trial that ensues. For those cases that make it to trial. This novel reminds us of the ongoing violation that rape victims must endure to bring the guilty to justice. The actual rape, the rape kit test and then what they are subjected to during the trial – not forgetting an unforgiving public that might not agree.
This incredible story is very balanced because it also highlights the dilemmas of not wanting the wrong people accused and how the power of the public can easily render the wrong person guilty. The presumption of innocence is a legal principle, dating back to the 18th Century, that guilt must be proven beyond reasonable doubt. “For it is better that ten guilty people escape than one innocent one suffer”. So, whilst we live with an imperfect system for rape victims, the author reminds us that at least we have a system, albeit one that needs to progress.
A thoroughly deserved and easy 5 star from me for an author that perfectly navigated their way through the trauma, the emotions, prejudices in such a sensitive way to create a surperb and balanced work of fiction, whilst dealing with a delicate, emotional and sometimes controversial subject....more
Wow what a fantastic book and one of the best books I have read this year.
What the Wind Knows is an epic story written by Amy Harmon, and is an amazinWow what a fantastic book and one of the best books I have read this year.
What the Wind Knows is an epic story written by Amy Harmon, and is an amazing interpretation of events in Ireland during the period of 1916 – 1922, the Easter Rising and Ireland’s fight for its independence. It is a stunning work of fiction interwoven with true historical events, combining the magical and the real. Whilst I have read several books from this period, this one was special. It speaks of the ordinary and the extraordinary events and people that are entwined in a way that captures the very essence of Ireland during this period. The book is very cleverly written without the political basis.
Anne brought up by her grandfather, has enjoyed years of folklore and stories about the Emerald Isle, but she now has one final journey to make with him. Eoin, her grandfather, wants his ashes scattered on Lough Gill in Ireland. On the lough beset with fog, Ann is shot and pulled from the lake by Dr Thomas Smith, but the extraordinary happens and Ann is transported back in time to 1922.
The fantasy part of the book is quite ingenious, the Anne today becomes Anne Gallagher, wife of Declan, both of whom were killed at the GPO, one of the key landmark sites during the Easter rising. Anne falls in love and marries Thomas and is exposed to the men caught up in Ireland’s struggles. Not from these parts, Anne is treated with suspicion by the Irish, none other than Michael Collins himself. However, she wins over his trust and tries to warn him about the extra steps he must take to protect his own life during this period of uncertainty and political unrest. We get an alluring and fascinating insight into Michael Collins the man, not the Political Irish leader.
I don’t care much for time travel but I loved this book. I don’t like mushy love stories but I loved this story about love and survival without going over the top with emotional prose. If I want to read about Political events, I will read a history book that provides historical facts. However, if I want to read a book that provides a great plot, inspired by real events and people and characters that are believable, then this is a great option. If you want a book that also captures the very essence of Irelands struggles and a book that is expertly written with a little sprinkling of Yeats thrown in for an extra bit of magic – then it doesn’t come much better than this.
A book that touched my heart, an author that got me in the ‘feeler’s’ in every way possible. Beautiful....more
Toe curling, fast paced, gripping, thrilling and terrifying. This is crime writing at its best and the first book I’ve read by Chris Carter, and it woToe curling, fast paced, gripping, thrilling and terrifying. This is crime writing at its best and the first book I’ve read by Chris Carter, and it won’t be the last.
Picture this, you are a career thief / pickpocket and by all accounts a highly skilled one. Then one day you make one fatal mistake, you decide to snatch a bag containing a journal. The problem is, the bag belongs to a serial killer and the journal holds an abundance of dark secrets. On reading it’s terrifying details you soon learn that if your name is in this diary of horrors, you are already dead, and you have made yourself his next mission. He is out to get his diary back and he will kill you.
This is the worst kind of killer because he is faceless and plans his kills through the dark web, where victims are killed to order and slaughtered for viewing. He will not make mistakes, he will maintain his composure because he is a highly trained killing machine. He operates fast, he knows how to get information and he tracks you down before the day is out. Hunter has to quite literally put his life on the line to stop this assassin and rely on him making one mistake because he knows he cannot outsmart and out manoeuvre the Werewolf.
We have read many books about the trained assassins, the serial killers and it is difficult to make these stories unique, different and absorbing. However, Chris Carter created a lurid theatre of evil and with it delivered a super crime novel with all the tension and suspense I love. The writing style was excellent, the horror palpable with a never ending feeling of fear in this deadly game of cat and mouse with detective Hunter.
Some gruesome details in the diary of horrors that I skimmed past, but otherwise a fabulous read for crime lovers....more
5 Wishful stars for a sinister Cinderella / Aladin story where the delight of granting personal wishes comes with one of life’s most important lessons5 Wishful stars for a sinister Cinderella / Aladin story where the delight of granting personal wishes comes with one of life’s most important lessons. ‘be careful what you ask for, you might just get it’
Atmospheric, mysterious, and the stuff of dark magic, the book takes us through a series of events as a result of seven wishes granted to Eleanor. A journey that exposes the worst, the inconsiderate and somewhat ignorant side of human nature, where the personal ambitions, requests and desires are taken in isolation without considering the consequences. At a cost!!!
The Plot
My name is Eleanor and I have one final wish. To share the account of my life, because only then will you understand my story, my choices, and my reasoning. Only then should you judge me.
History will show that I was orphaned by the sweet age of 9 and became a ward of the Pembroke family at Granborough House. Mrs Pembroke was a wonderful second mother, who bestowed on me the love and privileges of any caring and wealthy family. Charles her son became my soulmate, but I did not know what that meant then.
My life takes a dramatic twist when Mrs Pembrokes dies and with Charles away for many years, I am now relegated to the ranks of faceless housemaids. No more worthy of notice than the umbrella stand in the hall. That is until I am faced with the “… dark-eyed woman”, my mystical godmother. Although offering me the stuff of dreams, I was to be lured by this dark, unnerving, and chilling woman into making an agreement that would cost me my soul.
I was granted seven wishes and on completion of the seventh wish that she awarded me, my soul would be hers for all eternity. It is only after the completion of the 2nd wish that I realise my folly, because for one wish to be granted then someone else must die and I find myself tangled in this web of destruction where more wishes are needed to undo part of each "spell" and protect the ones I love. My plan of not using the seventh wish was my greatest error of judgement, as I am reminded.
“If you want something my dear you must ask for it. … I may not give you what you wanted but I did give you what you asked for’
In the end, the reader must know that I made my choices to protect those dear to me. I wanted a life immune from poverty, hunger and isolation, and the freedom to love my one true sweetheart, Charles.
Dear reader, I did make my choices and therefore, I am !!!"
Review and Comments
I loved this book with its explosion of imagination and insight into human nature. A rare combination. It worked with so many messages that are relevant in everyday life. In particular, what we do with the gifts or opportunities we are presented with in life, as we are constantly reminded that what we want or ask for may not be the thing we really need.
In the story we see a girl embroiled in a web of deceit and immorality whose life spirals out of control because of the poor judgements and errors she makes. Thinking she can outwit life she ultimately causes the destruction and downfall of her own.
A powerful and gripping story that is superbly written and expertly plotted. __________________________________
Second read with a buddy and enjoyed the life lessons even more the second time round. I am surprised to see this rated so low, but I guess if you are lured to the book because of the promises of haunting read then its not that. If you want a fairy tale - well it's not that either. It has strong messaging with an historical backdrop that draws on the theme of Cinderella for its inspiration. I was gripped by the story and the impact of poor decisions, and getting what you asked for !!!...more
“It wasn’t the fear that mattered in life. It was the choices made when you were afraid. You were brave because of your fear, not in spite of it.”
The “It wasn’t the fear that mattered in life. It was the choices made when you were afraid. You were brave because of your fear, not in spite of it.”
The Four Winds, is a 21st Century masterpiece written by Kristin Hannah, and an amazing depiction of life during the Great Depression of the 1930’s. We follow the story of one family in particular, the poverty and hardships endured by them, along with thousands of other migrant workers escaping the dust bowl. Blown by “…the Four Winds”, many set out for a better life in California, but instead faced unimaginable hardship, poverty, and heartache.
The Plot
We begin in Texas, the year 1921. The great war is over, the country is invigorated, people are seeking prosperity, and America is the land of plenty. The dawn of a new era for many but for Elsa life does not offer much hope. Elsa, seen by many as too old to marry, is constantly ridiculed and subjected to torrents of emotional abuse at the hands of her own rich family and then disowned, after falling pregnant to the charming Rafe Martinelli, whom she is forced to marry.
By 1934, America has changed and some parts unrecognisable, thousands are out of work, people are losing their homes and drought has devastated the Great Plains. Agriculture and the food source are at a perilous level as crops fail and water dries up making it impossible to live off the lands. Everything around Elsa is failing including her marriage, and now abandoned by her husband, Elsa must find a way to support her two children, so heads west.
“The four winds have blown us here, people from all across the country, to the very end of this great land. And now, at last, we make our stand, fight for what we know to be right. We fight for our American dream, that it will be possible again.”
Elsa grows in strength as the story progresses so too does her relationship with her belligerent daughter Loreda, who held Elsa responsible for her father leaving. The bond and relationship between Mother and Daughter was very touching, one of my favourite aspects about the book. Elsa had counted on a lifetime to teach her children what they needed to know, but from the outset she taught them the most important things of all, love and courage.
My Comments
The Four Winds is an exquisite novel that will leave imprints on your heart and in your mind a long time after reading. The book has an abundance of great characters, particularly Elsa (the main protagonist) who is an incredible woman, strong, determined, and courageous with an enormous capacity for love and forgiveness. The storyline is superb, and the writing style is stunning. Historical fiction at its best as Kristin Hannah manages to hold a mirror up to society displaying themes of greed, politics, poverty, and materialism. Lessons we will continue to learn through the years no matter what history has taught us.
“As we know, there are lessons to be learned from history. Hope to be derived from hardships faced before. We've gone through bad times before and survived, even thrived. History has shown us the strength and durability of the human spirit, In the end, it is our idealism and our courage and our commitment to one another--what we have in common--that will save us.”
Kristin is one of those authors that sucks you in from the beginning, keeps you wanting more and never disappoints.
My favourite book of 2021, a powerful and epic novel....more
Among my Goodread friends, I sit in the camp of believing this was a superb book and a very easy 5 stars for me. Why? because this was a wonderful talAmong my Goodread friends, I sit in the camp of believing this was a superb book and a very easy 5 stars for me. Why? because this was a wonderful tale that had everything; from the imagery, sentiment, character appeal, and themes that were interwoven into a story so perfectly that nothing appeared overworked but all of it caught me in 'the feelers'. But most of all it had a child's / woman's determination at the centre of the story. My heart was invested.
Is it a stunning piece of literature, well no it is not? Is the writing style to everyone’s taste, well no to that as well? I can empathise with readers who could not connect with the dialogue particularly at the beginning. I could not get my tongue around some of the slang in the opening chapters but then it softens as the book progresses. Was it plausible for a young girl to live in the marshes – perhaps no to that as well?
However, could I connect with a story of hardship, isolation, courage, endurance, and overcoming prejudices, then yes, I could. I love the stories of drive, strength, accomplishment and determination, despite the odds, and this book has it in abundance. A beautiful story told with so much heart.
The Plot
Kya is a Marsh girl, deserted by her mother and left to a drunk and violent father, who eventually abandons her along with all her other siblings. She was not school educated, and so she begins to learn her lessons in life through nature, the wildness surrounding her and with a little help from her friend Tate. Possessing an irrepressibly curious mind Kya finds a dizzying array of new ways to live and learn through nature, she learns to love and cope with disappointment. She learns trade, life skills, and even to read and write but above all she learns to depend only on herself.
What is beautiful about this story is the journey of Kya into adulthood as she learns to trust only to be disappointed, but the coming of age was handled with such delicacy and sensitivity that I can only applaud the author.
I loved that Kya was not someone who would indulge in the softer emotions of self-pity and disappointment but accepted her earlier demise and went about changing it. At the end of the book we see the poor 'marsh girl' replaced with something wonderfully unique but still true to her inner values. A girl who did not need to wear fancy dresses and depend on social acceptance to define her - because it was the torn clothes, years of rejection, isolation, and abuse that she would go on to wear as badges of courage and of survival.
The sensory descriptions, the beautifully described landscape, the character development through the book and the storyline made this a 5-star read for me.
The simplicity of this story was its beauty, Kay’s isolation and growth was its crowning glory and so the Crawdad's Sing!!!!...more
Hyde is another atmospheric, dark, haunting and utterly captivating novel by the wonderful Craig Russell. The story focuses on the duality of human naHyde is another atmospheric, dark, haunting and utterly captivating novel by the wonderful Craig Russell. The story focuses on the duality of human nature, creating the backdrop that there are bright angels and dark demons in each of us and that good and evil can coexist in the same personality with all the shades and contrasts between them.
" And under the bright but cheerless Bournemouth sun, Edward Hyde told his friend Robert Louis Stevenson his tale."
We have two murders that seem connected, one of which was posed as a ritual Celtic threefold death. Alongside that Scotland Yard are investigating links to Celtic nationalism in Scotland. We have a wealthy Edinburgh heiress missing, perhaps abducted, seemly unconnected to anything else until her relationship with photographer Dunlop is revealed and amongst many others, the Deacon of a dark and secret society, the Dark Guild. All murders are attributed to the "beast from the otherworld".
Hyde continues to question his involvement and if his lapses of memory are in fact times when he could be capable of these savage acts of violence, or some other neurological condition, until he receives a chilling letter “… you seek an audience with me, and I shall grant it. You know where to come and you know to come alone. I will give you until nightfall then I will send you the beautiful finger that bore this ring. .. If you do not do exactly as I ask, I equally promise you that I will reveal to Dr Burr all manner of dark and glorious entertainments before she welcomes the release of death.”
And when Edward Hyde finished telling his story to his friend Robert Louis Stevenson, Hyde says
“… I rather liked the idea that my name would become eternally synonymous with the duality of human nature. It appeals to my vanity. "
The one and only Robert Louis Stevenson responds with a promise that he may well achieve that, for he has an idea for an obscure and strange book title that will become the legend of - "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde". This is not a spoiler but I can't say any more.
This book feels like multiple jigsaws jumbled together and you are frantically trying to unravel the pieces to create not just one but multiple pictures from it. From the start Craig Russell’s sensory perceptions brings the scenes to life, the plot is skillfully woven and vividly depicted, the characters are deliciously evil and the suspense is remarkable. Apart from a bit in the middle where the book seemed to lose its way a little bit, I was totally and utterly entranced until the last page.
Craig Russell is a stunning writer, and has become one of my favourites and this is a fantastic book....more
The Woman in the White Kimono, is a work of fiction based in 2 decades, the present day and Japan 1957. However, it draws its inspiration from the autThe Woman in the White Kimono, is a work of fiction based in 2 decades, the present day and Japan 1957. However, it draws its inspiration from the authors fathers own experience having met and fallen in love with a Japanese girl while he was enlisted in the US navy and the many Japanese women, exiled in their own country or discriminated against in the US. That is for the small number that managed to overcome the strict immigration laws in the US.
Ana Johns tells their story through two women, Tori Kova, the daughter of Hajmine who is dying when the story begins and Naoka Nakamura who knew the boy that became the man.
Naoka is destined to fulfil her father’s wishes and enter a prearranged marriage to Satoshi, son of a wealthy business contact of Naoka’s father. However, the daughter’s heart has been stolen by another, Hajime and soon finds herself, like many before her, pregnant with his child. Naoka’s father has strict rules and refuses to acknowledge the daughters wishes and despite her cunning plans to make her father see sense he remains rigid and unrelenting. For the other family members, the advice comes through some elegant quotes
“You must choose your love and love your choice” “To know your direction you must know both your roots and your reach”
Naoka, marries Hajime and on her wedding day receives an unexpected visitor with a very special gift. Her mother who brings her own White Kimono for the wedding ceremony and stays long enough to see her daughter dressed. Hajime leaves 2 weeks later with a promise of return.
Tori, has been given a letter by her father, written to Naoka (Cricket) which blows a hole in Tori’s own image of her father, who had never disclosed this person he loved and the daughter he had fathered (Little Bird). Wanting to connect with her family, Tori sets out for Japan to uncover the truth and that she does. In doing so she learns more about her father and his previous life, for he has loved and fathered another daughter. Tori learns to accept the love her father had for this other wife and she also finds peace for the two sisters share a name Little Bird, only Tori’s in Japanese means little bird.
This is a heartfelt story because it happened to so many Japanese women who suffered from the ingrained prejudices in the US and in Japan. Over 10,000 children were born to US service men, and many were surrendered to an orphanage in Oiso for mixed race children. Never to be accepted in either society.
The story is familiar to many readers, but Ana Johns wrote this story with such passion but not “sappy”. I loved the story, it was sad but uplifting, and it felt real with some simple but powerful messages and quotes throughout, which made this book very special. A great read and a pleasant change for those of us who like Crime / Thrillers and a perfect choice for those of us who also like historical fiction....more
He spoke silently in my ear, “it always ends where it starts”, no one will look after you like I can, you will not survive unless I let you. I am theHe spoke silently in my ear, “it always ends where it starts”, no one will look after you like I can, you will not survive unless I let you. I am the Whisper Man
“When the darkness comes, I am near you I wait until others are asleep You hear my whispers at your window when out from the shadows I creep”
Today I spoke gently in the Whisper Man’s ear “It finished at the end. I did survive. Just !!!.”
This is one of the most gripping and mind-blowing books I have read this year, and it takes suspense and terror to a whole new thrilling level. The combined psychological thriller and family drama is brilliantly narrated by Tom Kennedy and his son Jake. Detectives Pete Willis, Amanda Beck, and of course the Whisper Man.
Tom Kennedy moves to the sleepy town of Featherbank with his son Jake to start the process of rebuilding their lives after the death of Rebecca, Tom’s wife and Jake’s mother. At the same time a six-year-old boy Neil Spence goes missing and this is the first time we hear the strange rhyme of the whisper man "If you leave the door wide open, soon you’ll hear the whispers spoken". Even more terrifying is that this death bears all the hallmarks of a serial killer who paralysed a town with fear as he taunted its people and murdered five young boys. The Whisper Man.
The relationship between father and son is central and an important theme in the book and for Tom and Jake, it creates a touching family drama whilst deeply disturbing events unfold around them. However, the author does a clever job of covering the themes separately and simultaneously criss-crossing between the twin storylines seamlessly until the lives of the different characters migrate perilously towards each other.
Spine tingling to read but difficult to put down. I was so sorry to finish I enjoyed it that much. The author did a fantastic job at dealing with the complexities of fatherhood after a bereavement whilst creating a nail-biting thriller. A very easy 5 stars. Brilliant novel....more
The setting is Cambridge, a picture postcard city, home to one of the most sought after universities in the country. Its locations are idyllic with beThe setting is Cambridge, a picture postcard city, home to one of the most sought after universities in the country. Its locations are idyllic with beautifully manicured gardens, open forecourts and buildings with historical spires and turrets abound. Charming until a young and beautiful female student is found murdered.
There is no shortage of novels that draw their inspiration from Greek mythology and tragedies that were told hundreds of years ago, but Alex Michaelides makes it integral to the plot and expertly weaves Greek tragedy through the book and in the depiction of its characters.
Mariana the main female protagonist in the book, is herself a tragic heroine. Mariana met her adoring husband in Cambridge but her life was turned upside down with the unexpected death of Sebastian in a freak swimming accident. Still coming to terms with the loss of her husband Mariana is dragged back to Cambridge to support her niece Zoe whose friend was murdered with no obvious motive or suspect. As she steps back into the Cambridge Mariana’s unease is heightened when she is faced with hushed conversations, whisperings and a reluctance from the students to talk about what the death of their friend. Even her own niece is hiding something. Mariana, now a Group Therapist is encouraged to help with the investigation, albeit covertly, and although reluctant at first, she does agree to stay in support of her niece. After all its just a few days !!!
Mariana detects something sinister in the central male character, Edward Fosca, who is a handsome and charismatic professor, of Greek Methodology and Tragedy. Her dislike of Edward intensifies when his god like status becomes apparent with his cult following from a group of female students, known as the Maidens. The adoration is not shaken when Mariana places him as prime suspect and does nothing to hide her suspicions, if anything Mariana finds herself even more isolated, for having dared question the revered Professors reputation and high moral standing. Mariana also finds herself in trouble with the police for her apparent meddling and told to leave Cambridge. However, with the death of 2 more maidens and calling cards with quotes from Greek mythology, Marina decides to stay and solve the murders. In doing so Mariana starts to confront her own demons, feelings of vulnerability and uncertainty and starts to write her own chapters in her book called life.
There is no shortage of drama and potential suspects, which just added to the suspense and kept us guessing until the end of the book. I do love books with an unpredictable ending. I read the Silent Patient and can now say I am a fan of Alex Michaelides. This was a brilliant book for me, it had the crime, thriller with the backdrop of Greek mythology. I would highly recommend....more
“I will return,” the voice hissed in Viktor’s ear. “I will return and show you the truth and you will be blinded by it. I will show you such horror an“I will return,” the voice hissed in Viktor’s ear. “I will return and show you the truth and you will be blinded by it. I will show you such horror and fear that you will be burned by its beauty and its clarity.”
The Devil Aspect is simply a Masterpiece in Gothic crime and one of the best psychological thrillers I have ever read, with deep characterisation and a stunningly evil plot making this a sensational read.
Psychiatrist Viktor Kosárek, following years of research, has developed a theory that most people share a common archetype of evil, known as the Devil Aspect, but the presence of such traits is more prevalent in the most psychopathic minds and depraved killers. Keen to test his new medical technique and research, Victor takes up a post in the in Hrad Orlu Asylum for the Criminally Insane. The state-of-the-art facility located in a medieval mountaintop castle outside of Prague.
The asylum houses six of the country’s most dangerous killers, dubbed “The Devils Six”, known to the staff as The Woodcutter, The Clown, The Glass Collector, The Vegetarian, The Sciomancer, and the most feared of all - The Demon. All incarcerated for life but perfect candidates for Victor’s study.
As a story line this in itself is superb, but Russell moves up a gear to reveal the escalating death rate in Prague by the infamous killer known as “Leather Apron” who is murdering his victims with the same brutality and theatre reminiscent of Jack the Ripper. The question is “will Victor’s research help the police in solving the case of Leather Apron putting an end to his reign of terror and deadly killing spree?”
The stage is set, the setting is haunting and dramatic, the characters are set to play their part, in their own evil way, whilst the author tests his theories and seeks to rehabilitate his patients in some way as he creates the theatre and unspools the story of “The Devil Aspect”.
I was gripped from the first page. I couldn’t put it down, and then was disappointed I had finished it so quickly. I wanted more. Dark, twisty, and captivating. Brilliant characters, great story telling and a superb plot. Best book I’ve read in a long time. I would highly recommend.
Read in June reviewed properly now.
PS. What this book is not - it is not satanic, gory or sadistic although the name might lead our minds there. It is a gripping psychological thriller....more
“If I have learned anything in this long life of mine, it is this: in love we find out who we want to be; in war we find out who we are.”
A gripping st“If I have learned anything in this long life of mine, it is this: in love we find out who we want to be; in war we find out who we are.”
A gripping story of love, courage, survival, resilience, and human strength in war torn France. The story is of two very different sisters who take different paths to heroism and the quest for freedom during the war.
Still grieving the loss of their mother and father’s demise after his wife’s death, Vianne seeks the comfort and security of married life, domesticity, and motherhood. Meanwhile a spirited Isabelle joins the French resistance when France becomes occupied by a ruthless and oppressive German regime.
Isabelle is seen leading downed allied servicemen across the Pyrenees to Spain. A quest, a journey and one of human sacrifice because if caught the punishment is sure death. Her success, determination and triumph put her firmly in sight of the German forces determined to capture “The Nightingale”. Meanwhile Vianne the unlikely heroine embraces her own life of sacrifice nearer home and hides almost 20 Jewish children from the German forces and holds hope for them in a desperate grip.
In their own way both sisters learn to follow their hearts, with their own sense of purpose and as such live through unthinkable moments, to ride out the fear and endure the brutality of the German forces as they are abused, raped, and terrorised but never defeated.
Kristen Hannah is such a skilful writer who captures the essence of war and plots the story of these two exceptional women who mirrored the real lives of many people who dedicated their lives in the search for freedom and an end to the war. The story draws on some of the real historical events, and vividly portrays the atmosphere, mood, and life at that time in history with such elegant prose and skilful story telling. And for us we are reminded of the human sacrifice of the service people and heroes who risked everything in the war and so with such selfless courage.
“There were no parades for us when it was over, no medals or mentions in history books. We did what we had to during the war, and when it was over, we picked up the pieces and started our lives over…… We understand the value of forgetting, the lure of reinvention.”
Whilst I never tire of these stories, if you are, then you still might want to read this. It is a beautiful story with France as the setting, not always the country of war stories. Simply brilliant and highly recommended....more
Margaret M - (too far behind to catch up
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