Book Review Blitz

The Contest by Matthew Reilly

Another fast paced brilliantly energetic read from one of my favorite action-adventure writers. This time, to my delight he has ventured into a decidedly sci-fi realm. Pitting an ordinary man against monsters from other parts of the galaxy in a hair raising well written fast paced thriller.

All He Ever Wanted by Anita Shreve (Audiobook)

I have been an Anita Shreve fan for several years now, but this time she has truly outdone herself. The reality of the world she creates in All He Ever Wanted is breathtaking. The story is very simple, it is a story of unrequited love and whether getting what you want will bring you the happiness and sort of life you want for yourself.

Lost Boy, Lost Girl by Peter Straub (Audiobook)

I have not picked up a Peter Straub book since attempting to read Ghost Story in my first year of college more then a decade ago. Personally, I couldn’t get past page 35, I was, admittedly, bored to tears. So, when I saw Lost Boy, Lost Girl at the library I was reticent to pick it up, but upon reflection it was an intriguing read, a haunting ghost story with lots of lose ends. I doubt I will be trying this author again, but never say never.

Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane (Audiobook)

This book made me angry. Dennis Lehane’s portrayal of psychological disorder and twisted attempts of a misled psychiatrist to cure his disassociated patient was difficult to swallow. The author of Mystic River is a talented writer, but the plot line and his characters required a suspension of disbelief from me that I found irritating and unnecesary.

Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro

I must exclaim, "What a beautifully composed novel" when I think of Kazuo Ishiguro's Never Let Me Go. When I say composed rather then written I mean that the reveling of this books central character's place in the world and the very world itself and it's differences from our world are slyly and slowly exposed. I am reticent to review this novel since I feel that review would contain spoilers intentionally or otherwise. Sorry kids, you'll just have to check this one out yourself.