pickRebus is on trial, and the aging, ill, retired detective may not be able to get out of trouble this time. The latest Rankin was a tad slower than previous additions to the long running series, but still enjoyable. In fact, what I loved about this book, was Rankin‘s skill in giving the reader only what the characters have, and leading you on what turns into a shocking ending.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When in Scotland. Our Airbnb has the most amazing mugs.
pickI was stunned + traumatised by this story of a teenager in 90s Glasgow growing into a sexuality that is not acceptable in a v masculine society where his brother's violence dominates. Drawing on the theme of mother/son depicted so well in shuggie bain this is a brutal book with also tenderness of a sister he loves, but the forbidden love of Catholic James. Some scenes are tough but it is 5*
@alisiakae @Cinfhen @Barbara #booked2022 #acomingoutstory
pickThis took some time for me to get into, but the pace picked up and I became more engrossed and disturbed as the story approached its conclusion. This is the story of a 15 year old girl on the eve of her execution for witchcraft. This supports my belief that history holds much worse horrors than the most creative writer‘s imagination. How far as a modern society have we come? This book reminds me the answer is not far enough.
#Bookspinbingo
I‘m struggling staying focused on full-length novels lately. Manga has been my jam and I‘ve been devouring volumes as they come in (delivery man has been busy). Despite that, I‘m trying to get back into novels. Here are my two latest choices! Two of my fave authors; extremely different reads.
pickYoung Mungo grows up in a poor single parent family in Glasgow, with an alcoholic absent mother and a psychopathic brother. The only positive relationships he has are with his sister and a friend he makes in the course of the book. The premise is very similar to Shuggie Bain, but this book is bleaker and more violent. Masterful but very painful to read.
pickI‘m not sure I enjoyed this book, but it was definitely thought provoking and it got under my skin in the way that well drawn characters and strong writing so easily do. I see why it was longlisted for the Booker.
pickJohn Rebus and crimelord Gerry Cafferty have been each other‘s nemesis for decades. Both have slipped from their heyday as time and new faces have pushed them away from the center of action. Obstinate, maverick, principled and yet close to criminal Rebus advises Shiobhan Clarke on her cases under the radar as he enters the endgame with Cafferty. Final fight for both aging lions; Rebus steps over irrevocable line. Whew. Photo: Edinburgh street shot
