Archive for the ‘First novels’ Category

Comments Off on Candlemoth by RJ Ellory

Candlemoth by RJ Ellory


2008
07.07

Having reached the best seller list with his fourth novel, and perhaps the Richard and Judy gave him his breakthrough, I was keen to see how he started.
Also I was due to meet him at an event in Glasgow! Here he described his difficulty getting published, the reason that being English and writing novels about Americans in America didn’t fit either side of the Atlantic.
The good news he did get a chance and this his first is set in 60’s USA. Nathan (Negro) and Daniel (white) are innocent kids growing up. Told by Daniel from a cell on death row. This conspiracy thriller is a bit long winded but not half bad for a debut.

Score 6/10

Date read July 2008

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Comments Off on God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy

God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy


2008
06.07

Time shifts effortlessly from twins aged nine to now at 32. A near perfect example of how witting should be done.
Set in India this story revolves around a family tragedy. A complex novel and a seriously good read.
It won the Booker and alas nothing has been written by her since, if she does I’ll read like a shot.

Score 8.5/10

Date read June 2008

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Comments Off on Child 44 by Tom Rob-Smith

Child 44 by Tom Rob-Smith


2008
04.07

Debut thriller and a very good one.
1950’s Stalinist Russia, an MGB agent is the main character in this serial killer thriller.
What sets this apart is the way the author brings across the fear that Russian people had of the state society.
I recommend this book.
PS Based on a true story of Andrei Chikatile who was known as the butcher of Rostov. He killed 60 children and remained undetected due to the fact that the state would recognise a serial killer crime.

Score 8/10

Date read April 2008

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Comments Off on The Ruins by Scott Smith

The Ruins by Scott Smith


2008
04.07

A group of American youngsters are having a fun gap year in Cancun.
They decide to search for their friends brother and this takes them to a remote hill where they are forced to stay once entering by the violent locals.
You guessed it, the man eating vines get them one by one. It’ll make a better film.

Score 3/10

Date read April 2008

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