The Complaints

I've read The Complaints by Ian Rankin, his new book following the end of the Rebus series. I didn't enjoy it as much as Rebus. The main character, Malcolm Fox, is a detective in the Complaints area which investigates other police so he and his colleagues are despised by other police. In an elaborate setup he and another officer, Breck, are suspended following the murder of Fox's sister's partner. Strings are being pulled high up to protect corrupt police and big time criminals, but together Fox and Breck ensure justice prevails. 31/2/5

Still Me

This inspirational book Still Me by Christopher Reeve is what I needed at this stage of my life. See also Christopher Reeve Home Page. Christopher talks honestly and without self pity about the devastating horse-riding accident that left him a quadriplegic. He tells of his life both before and after that terrible day and discusses his emotions. Since my own spinal cord injury I had wondered about how Christopher Reeve could have dealt with his injury so was pleased to find his book second-hand. It is compulsory reading for anyone in a similar situation. He was a powerful advocate for the disabled until his death. He tried so hard to help the disabled through his speaking engagements and lobbying, but there is still so much more to be achieved. 41/2/5

Midnight Fugue

I very much enjoyed Midnight Fugue by Reginald Hill, the first of his novels I've read. The events play out over 24 hours on a Sunday when Dalziel becomes involved in the search for a policeman who disappeared 7 years earlier. The situation gets more complicated as the day proceeds as there appears to be a connection with a "reformed" gangster and his son, an aspiring politician. Terrific story. 41/2/5

The Audacity of Hope

This is a thought provoking book, The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama, published in 2006. He writes very well, outlining his hopes and dreams for a future America and future world. His idealism shines through and as we read we only hope he can fulfil his dreams when he becomes President. However, as with many "future" leaders the reality of office can put the brakes on achieving some of these goals. As President he has to run the gauntlet of opposition from the Republican party and others who oppose him, but he is committed to making changes that will benefit his people. As someone who enjoys watching political machinations, I liked this book very much. It is quite dense as there are a lot of important issues addressed, a lot of it could be applied to Australia as well. 41/2/5

Olive Kitteridge

I've very much enjoyed reading this unusual book Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout. The main character is, of course, Olive and the book is a series of short stories. Olive features in each one either as a minor character or in a major way. Each story is told, chronologically and connected, of different people who live in her small town. We then build up a picture of Olive's character. There are words on the cover of the book "What will you make of her?" I found my perception of Olive changed as the book continued. Brilliant writing. 5/5

The Return

I enjoyed The Return by Victoria Hislop, a fictional account of a family torn apart by the Spanish Civil War. Sonia Cameron travels to Granada to improve her Spanish dancing and meets an elderly man who tells her the story of the Ramirez family. She is drawn in to the story which ultimately helps her make new life choices. Before reading this, I knew little about this conflict and the terrible toll exacted on the Spanish people. There are a couple of "unbelievable" coincidences but they don't detract overall. A very worthwhile read. 5/5