The Body Farm by Patricia Cornwell

The Body Farm by Patricia Cornwell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I started the Scarpetta series with Cause of Death in which I felt the main character was a bit more likeable than in the earlier novels. I found Dr. Scarpetta still star struck by her title and position in a male dominated profession. However, I enjoyed reading how she handles the little mocks and jokes by her male counterparts.
I actually finished the second half of this book in one sitting, because I just had to know if my suspicion of "who-dunnit" was right. For one, who has read a few detective stories thus far finding the killer will not be difficult. There were a couple of details and tangents to the story that I would have liked to see explained, but those were not a major issue, just personal preference.
Overall, I always enjoy reading the novels in this series, The Body Farm included. Due to the intricate explanation of medical terminology, forensic pathology and subject matter (e.g. murder victims and means of death) I find it necessary to be in the mood for a Scarpetta novel for a genuine appreciation of this genre. Otherwise you might leave it unfinished for more than a year like I did.

View all my reviews

The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty

The Chaperone by Laura Moriarty
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely enjoyed this book from the beginning until the last page. I loved the subtle drama and twists life can throw our way that was narrated, but felt part of life and not an author's desperate attempt to add melodramatic scenes and unnecessary plot twists.
The combination of historical facts and fiction was beautifully accomplished. And I appreciated the insight into the protagonist's thoughts when faced with situations that belonged outside of her comfort zone, although I could not really feel interested in her character per se until the second half of the novel. By then I had to finish the book in one sitting.
The Chaperone gives a glimpse into the life of a woman experiencing the Victorian era, as well as the roaring 20's without the blinding illusions of the glitz and the glam. It allows the reader to be introduced to a different perspective of these highly interesting times.

View all my reviews

Welcome

A work in progress

The Awakening by Kate Chopin

The Awakening by Kate Chopin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the second time I read "The Awakening". As before, it did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed Chopin's writing style, it's very descriptive, detailed, but concise. Her narration of the story is superbly done. One feels she is telling the story only for you. Even though I could never fully identify with the characters or feel much sympathy, Chopin was able to keep me interested in the plot and even the characters. I recommend this book to everyone all the time.

View all my reviews