I find that I can't read too many of these books in a row (for fear of losing brain cells? I'm not sure). It's been a while since I read book number 4 so this was a nice break from all the mysteries I've been reading! It's complete fluff, but fun fluff. This book isn't the best in the series, but it's not too bad.
First Line: "'There's a zombie in the attic,' George the Fiend informed me over breakfast."
Rating:
(3.5/5)
The story follows the making of the tapestries though the paintings, the creation of 'cartoons' and then the weaving. We learn about each of the families connected to the tapestries. The De La Chappelles are chosen to weave the tapestries and of course they have a beautiful blind daughter.
The most interesting aspect of the story was how these works of art were created and the 'cost' to these artisans in creating these pieces
Rating:
(4.0/5)
Like any Coupland book, this story is more about people and relationships than about events. I didn't find the characters in this novel as weird as previous Coupland novels that I've read, and for this I was thankful. Coupland keeps these characters weird, but not to the point where you can no longer relate to them.
Not my favourite Coupland book, but definitely not my least favourite either!
First line: "My mother, Jasmine, woke up this morning to find the word D-I-V-O-R-C-E written in mirror writing on her forehead in a big black felt pen".
Rating:
(3.5/5)
This books looks at miracles and discusses the limits of these gifts. Are they gifts or curses? How far does a family have to go to help others and at what cost? How do you forgive those who unintentionally harm our loved ones?
Wiersema lets each character speak for himself and I found this to be a very interesting way of telling a story. A very thought provoking story that will keep you thinking for weeks
Rating:
(4.5/5)
The FBI are trying to pin her murder on David. The facts of her case just don't add up. There are so many twists and turns. Just when you feel you have it figured out another turn in the story occurs. The bodies start piling up and the facts get murkier and murkier.
A great mystery but I felt the final twist was a bit too much!!!
This book was read for the Numbers Challenge
Rating:
(4.0/5)
Eve must put aside her dislike of Somerset and find out who is really behind these murders. She gets a riddle to solve that might get her to the scene before the victim dies. This murderer knows his electronics and McNab, E-detective is introduced. In this book we find out still more about Roarke's murky past but the focus is really on Somerset. We see his weaknesses and strengths and find out a lot more about him.
The plot is well developed and I enjoyed this book every bit as much as the other books in the series
Rating:
(4.0/5)
It is interesting to see London through Rebus's eyes. He is not 'in his element' and must face prejudice. Flight, Rebus's counterpart in London is a decent and good policeman and balances Rebus off very nicely. I love always how Rebus follows his own instincts and to hell with procedure.
In this book he falls for Lisa who wishes to profile the serial killer. I found the relationship a bit conntrived. Mysteries do not breed good relationships.
Rankin writes a great mystery with lots of twists and turns
Rating:
(4.0/5)
The previous Bosch novel (The Last Coyote) was a no holds barred type of book because Bosch was doing his own thing. Now the structure is back because he is working for the city again. He has a new boss, Grace, who seems like she might actually be on Bosch's side. Of course, there's a new love interest (detectives can't ever seem to stay on the same girl for more than one book). But it looks like this love interest might be around for the upcoming book in the series.
There were some unexpected twists and turns, which is always nice because I'm fairly good at guessing "whodunit" and like to be surprised.
First line in the book: "As he drove along Mulholland Drive toward the Cahuenga Pass, Bosch began to hear the music."
Rating:
(4/5)
The ranch has been in operation for awhile and the railways want to generate more business. The Homesteaders Act is pushed though and now drylanders are flocking to Montana to try their luck. They must cope with drought, cold and very inhospitable conditions to grow a little wheat. Among the first wave of 'nesters' is Lilli and her husband. Webb falls in love at first sight and has trouble keeping his hands off of her.
There is the usual love story but also some insight into the history of Montana around WWI. There is also a bit of intrigue due to the conflict between the cowboys and farmers.
Rating:
(3.5/5)
This book was ranked number 86 in the BBC Top 100. Why? It's a children's/young adult book, and one that I don't think would do a very good job at helping a teenager get over the grief of losing someone close. The family dynamics are also kind of weird. I understand that there are things going on in her family, but she seems to not think of her dad as a dad. It just feels kind of off.
I wasn't too impressed. I should be blown away by these books since they were ranked in the top 100 of all time and I definitely was not blown away by this.
First line: "Vicky's my best friend."
Rating:
(3.5/5)
