In my review I said:
The characters are believable, though not all likeable, and the story keeps the reader eager to learn what happened to Rose. Although this reviewer found the eventual revelation something of a disappointment, many will probably think it perfectly satisfactory. In any case, the prose is a delight to read and the relationships between the younger characters ring true, as do their perceptions of adult behavior.
***
Bell, David. Cemetery Girl.
In my review I said:
Bell's portrayal of Tom as a father made irrational first by his belief that his daughter is alive, and then by his need to know what she was doing during the four long years were gone is compelling. The story is written in the first person, so we perceive everything as Tom would. Despite that, most of the primary characters are portrayed as neither or both good and bad.
***
Cantrell, Rebecca. Game of Lies.
In my review, I said:
Cantrell writes from Hannah's point of view in the first person, describing Hannah's experiences so vividly that the reader can almost identify with her completely. The "almost" is a result of the many instances when the reader wants to caution her against something she's decided upon, but of course this is what makes the narrative into a story.
***
Hamilton, Denise. Damage Control.
In my review I said:
Ms. Hamilton skilfully describes Maggie's reactions to sights, sounds, and smells to increase the already strong empathy the reader has with her through the first-person point of view. We become so attuned to Maggie's senses and emotions that we can almost feel the heat of the sun on her arms, the dizziness caused by watching a record spinning on a turntable.
***
King, Laurie R. The Pirate King.
In my review I said:
... the tale is more humorous than other stories in the series, but that doesn't make it trivial. Trying to keep track of the whole cast and crew of the production is no easy task, but of course Mary manages magnificently. And in the process, she just happens to solve a mystery or two (with some help from her husband).
This book is truly a delight. It will certainly be enjoyed by Mary Russell fans, and might even draw some more into the company.
This list is arranged alphabetically by author.
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Marlyn, i'm so glad someone else listed the Arsenault book! That one was a bit of a sleeper for me, in that as i made my list it was not obvious, but snuck up and tapped me. It was creative and a surprise. Did you read Megan Abbott's THE END OF EVERYTHING? You didn't list it (I did) but I wondered what you thought. Same with Alan Bradley - the "child as narrator" or from the young person's perspective? Not my cup of coffee, but so interesting.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing, Andi.
ReplyDeleteI haven't read the Abbott book, and I haven't yet started the Bradley series, though both are on the ever-growing list...