Category: Book Reviews

Gargoyle Hall - Araminta Spook, Book 6

Review – Gargoyle Hall by Angie Sage

This is my first introduction to the book series Araminta Spook who is a Chief Detective of her own detective agency. She’s funny, intuitive and decisive. Perfect for this role. Do join her on this new adventure to find out what mysterious happening are occurring at Gargoyle Hall. You’re in for a treat if you do.

Review – The Memory Police by Yōko Ogawa

There are many things to like about The Memory Police, the narrative structure, the well drawn characters and world building. Another aspect that I can’t let go unsaid was the delicate way information was revealed. I didn’t realise just how chaotic the island was until I (the reader) was invested in the story and found myself, like the islanders equally wounded by this calamitous place. But its thought provoking insight into the power and relevance of memory is what lingers and will not be easily forgotten.

Review – Fifty Fifty by Steve Cavanagh

One of the sisters killed their father but which one is the question as they both have motive and the evidence implicate both.
Fifty Fifty takes us through the point of view of the defence attorneys and the killer.
Got to say that the killer is pretty hardcore. Other people are stepping stones to her overall objectives. Lives, many lives are expendable.
Formulaic but engaging nevertheless.

Review – Stone Cold Mortal By Disa Dawn

If you were a babysitting, event planner and mortician would your life be this much fun? Stone Cold Mortal is a nice blend of humour, supernatural happenings and a cast of eccentric personalities. Come, join in the mayhem.

Review - The Rain Belongs Here

Review – The Rain Belongs Here by Julie Rogers

The Rain Belongs Here by Julie Rogers was an ideal choice for a lazy afternoon: dystopian world, an investigation and family loyalty all feature. The mystery isn’t all that difficult to solve however it is a pleasant well written read.

Book Review - Cabal by Clive Barker

Review – Cabal by Clive Barker

Clive Barker takes a straightforward plot layers it with intent, infuses it with wonder and leaves you absorbed in a world that horrifies yet ultimately delights. This is his gift as a storyteller. If you haven’t already, get to know, Cabal one of his classic horror novels.

Book Review - The Boy In The Black Suit

Review – The Boy In The Black Suit by Jason Reynolds

The Boy In The Black Suit is fundamentally about life, setbacks and grief. When life is hard, how do you cope? As a teen whose mother has just died and a father has given up on being a recovering alcoholic. Life is difficult for Matt. The writing is good and the grief is real. making this a compelling read.

Review – Outraged by Ashley ‘Dotty’ Charles

Outraged will make you consider your social media usage and reflect on where you place your support.
Serious stuff, No? Actually yes and no. All this information is cleverly encased in wit, humour and perfect examples to make you laugh out loud. Well done Dotty.

Review – The Last Wild by Piers Torday

The animals are the stars of The Last Wild. You almost don’t notice the lack of humans in this book as the animals are marvellous characters with amusing personalities. Plus when we do get to meet humans, they’re not all that nice.