I no longer review books in the traditional sense, but I love to talk about authors and their books and, as in art, I know what I like. I’ve been reading via Kindle (the accessibility for a traveller makes it a necessity but I miss holding the real thing in my hand) and there are four books that really stand out for me for different reasons.
The Sun Walks Down by Fiona McFarlane (Allen and Unwin)
Despite the wonderful depictions of the South Australian landscape, the real joy for me is in the characters; from the six-year-old boy missing after a dust storm, to the Indigenous trackers, the visiting artists and local residents. I cared about them all. I loved the fresh composition the author chose and I didn’t want this book to end.
Bodies of Light by Jennifer Down (Text)
I did want this book to end. Not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because I was exhausted. My breath caught so often, tears leaked too easily. Beautiful prose, a stunningly sad story. Perhaps it should come with trigger warnings but, when you’re in the mood to go deep, take the leap.
Restlessness by Aritha van Herk (Red Deer Press)
A story about life and travel and about death. The novel moved me deeply and will not be easily forgotten. Set primarily in a hotel in Calgary, it nevertheless takes us around the world. This is the third book I have read by this author and she is the mistress of the unsaid.
The Seven Skins of Esther Wilding by Holly Ringland (Harper Collins)
I tried to abstain from this one as I knew it was water-centred and, having just finished my own water-themed manuscript, I didn’t want to second-guess myself (fellow writers will understand). I’m glad I waded in though. Much of the novel is set in Copenhagen and, as I am headed there next year, I’m sure I will tread in some familiar footsteps.
I’ve always been something of a spasmodic blogger but, since moving to this new website and trying to iron out a few problems, I’ve become AWOL, something I intend to remedy. Now I’ve written that phrase, I’ll have to follow through!
I loved reading your POV and will get stuck into these titles. Copenhagen, here you come…!
Yes, I’m really looking forward to the Nordic countries.
Great suggestions Karenlee! Will check them out. Keep enjoying your travels, I think you’ll love Copenhagen and if you’re a fan of the original Bridge series , take the train over to Lund in Sweden.
Lund is now on my list, thanks Jeanette!