Young Adult
Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison
Fun and fast-paced with an appealing character cast. Didn't realise it followed on from a short story, which I haven't read, and felt it seemed rather like it started partway through the novel. Perhaps the short story could have been incorporated at the beginning? Not as good as the "Hollows" series, but a decent, quick read.
Graceling by Kristen Cashore
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, immersing myself fully into Cashore's well-considered and intriguing kingdom. Katsa, our protagonist, had many depths and a powerful personality and Po, her male companion made the perfect counterpart. The plot moved at a wonderful pace, engaging the reader at every turn of the page. And it was fresh, and different, and impossible to put down. Certainly a skilled first novel.
The Wish Kin by Joss Hedley
For a first novel, this definitely has some promising aspects. However, the plot is somewhat sprawling and clumsy, Hedley has a love of the adjective that swiftly drove me to distraction and the climax was over before it almost began. She could go far, with some very interesting ideas and a well-painted picture of a grim Australian future, however, she needs to add some polish before she will truly shine.
Undine by Penni Russon
Well written and realised coming-of-age story intermingled with a sub-plot of magic. Set in Tasmania, this makes for an engrossing teenage read with strong emphasis on emotional confusion, family ties and friendship.
Kids
James and the Giant Peach by Roald Dahl
A fun, fast-paced, far-fetched fantasy adventure about a little boy and some giant insects going on an amazing journey. Immensely fun when read aloud.
The Borrowers by Mary Norton
A charming story with a premise we can all relate to. Where do those missing things go? Whilst a lovely story, and a quick read, one cannot help but feel a little disatisfied at the ending in which nothing is really explained and it is very clearly a tie in to the next instalment in this classic series.
Historical
Hangman's Blind by Cassandra Clark
As far as historical novels go, I am not sure how accurate this was. The language was certainly quite poetic, and the descriptions quite vivid - in some places. In others, however, it left a lot to be desired. Some relationships, for example that between the nun heroine and Ulf, could have been further explained. I spent most of the novel thinking they were siblings. And the amount of red herrings meant that the actual conspiracy seemed not particularly well devised. Some parts were predictable, others convuluted and confusing. Not a bad read, but not one I would particularly recommend.
The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Another splendidly weaved mystery from Zafon. "Angel's Game" is a dark and lyrically written tale. Rather bizarre, with many disturbing twists, one cannot help but become fully immersed within its rich multitude of layers. The ending was strange, but entirely suitable for the story.
Paranormal
A Fistful of Charms by Kim Harrison
(Hollows book 4)
The adventures continue in this - the 4th instalment in this addictive series. In this volume, Rachel's relationship with Jinks is resolved, whilst her relationship with Nick faces a distinct hurdle. And as for the tension between Ivy and Rachel... It's about to come to a head... Whilst this series is very addictive, and the characters are interesting and fun, you can indeed have too much of a good thing and thus I think it is time to read something a little more serious.
For a Few Demons More by Kim Harrison
(Hollows book 5)
The plot has certainly picked up the pace and there are some interesting twists and surprises in this sixth instalment. With the introduction of new characters and the re-appearance of many old ones, this is not a series you could pick up partway through and expect to understand. I love the way Rachel is growing as a character and find myself discovering a bit of a soft spot for Al the demon, evil b**tard that he is!
Things are starting to look decidingly bad for our heroes! As Rachel is forced again and again to make decisions that blacken her soul, it appears she might have to make a deal with more than just a demon to come out of this one standing. This plot is evolving into an epic, complciated mess where black and white are merging fast into shades of grey.
The Outlaw Demon Wails by Kim Harrison
(Hollows book 6)
The plot has certainly picked up the pace and there are some interesting twists and surprises in this sixth instalment. With the introduction of new characters and the re-appearance of many old ones, this is not a series you could pick up partway through and expect to understand. I love the way Rachel is growing as a character and find myself discovering a bit of a soft spot for Al the demon, evil b**tard that he is!
White Witch, Black Curse by Kim Harrison
(Hollows bk 7)
To say I am addicted to this series is surely an understatement! It is, in short, the most complex, interwoven, involved, funny, quirky, crazy, exciting and fun "Paranormal" series I have read to date. Yes, that trumps the "Dresden Files" AND "Women of the Underworld" series. The writing style is sometimes a little rough, but it is first-person narrative (and therefore appropriate to the character). And the action scenes can be a bit confusing. But the characters are so well developed and distinctive they become your friends - even the ones you love to hate (like good ol' Al and Trent). For all the humour, funny aspects, Harrison is also capable of writing deeply emotive scenes. Truly she is talented! In this volume, poor Rachel seems to be digging herself deeper and deeper into trouble and making more "black" decisions for "white" reasons. My only fear is that with another five or so books in this series, and already a massive (and colourful) cast, that we may suffer under a personality overload!
Literary
When will there be good news? by Kate Atkinson
Entertaining as usual, with a cast of interesting characters. However, the plot seemed oddly disconnected - moreso than usual, and I felt there were a few too many "loose ends". Had to love Reggie though! This book just did not feel as tight and clever as its predecessors.
