The Third People by Lee Burton My rating: 2 of 5 stars Lee Burton is a new author to me, one I came to, I must admit, because he is a Canadian writer, living and working in Newfoundland. He has garnered a few accolades in his time, most notably the Percy Janes First Novel Award, and a finalist in the Writers of the Future contest. In his biography, it’s noted: Though his stories are diverse,…
Vikings: The North Atlantic Saga by William W. Fitzhugh My rating: 5 of 5 stars If you’re interested in all things Vikings, Fitzhugh’s book should be a staple in your library. Rich with photographs and impeccable research, this is where your research regarding the Vikings should start. An invaluable resource which is clearly written. View all my reviews
Last Song Before Night by Ilana C. Myer My rating: 3 of 5 stars While Last Song Before Night is a remarkable first novel for Ilana C. Myer, it is also one which, for me, doesn’t quite live up to what I believe is Myer’s full potential as a writer. The plot line is a good one, albeit not particularly new: old magic lost, a new menace, innocents led to suffering and slaughter, a reluctant…
Siren Queen by Nghi Vo My rating: 2 of 5 stars Nghi Vo is a new writer to me, apparently an award-winning author. I am not sure what constitutes worthiness of awards these days, but it would seem wandering plot, predictable characters, and seedy settings are the criteria. I delved into Vo’s novel, intrigued by the premise, and reassured by the fact this wasn’t some indie erotica which proliferates publishing these days. I was rather…
The Cat’s Table by Michael Ondaatje My rating: 2 of 5 stars I do have to say I have enjoyed most of what Ondaatje has written. He demonstrates a craftsman’s skill in his art. In The Cat’s Table, for me, that skill seemed laboured, even tired. What had been touted in promotional blurbs as a spellbinding story which promised to be poignant and electrifying, for me stuttered through endless exposition, predictable characters, and ponderous prose….