Tag Archives: reviews

Books: No Precious Truth

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I loved reading No Precious Truth by Chris Nickson.

No Precious Truth by Chris Nickson

It’s a suspense/thriller. Brother (Dan) working for MI5 and sister (Cathy) working for police/army in Leeds during WW2 are coincidentally together on a small team chasing down an escaped and dangerous German spy. The suspense comes from pressure on Dan by his bosses to capture the spy and close the case before collateral and psychological damage is done. The book is overflowing with scene setting (Leeds in WW2) and character development, e.g. Dan’s girlfriend being sacked from the spy catcher project, Cathy’s boyfriend shipped off on a troop ship to North Africa, the rest of the Special Investigative Branch in Leeds, as well as Cathy’s best friends and parents living their civilian lives under the threat of German bombs. The story is primarily told from Cathy’s perspective and although it’s hinted at several times, the book doesn’t dwell too much on the fact that she’s a woman struggling for acceptance in a male-dominated career/situation. The plot is well-paced, the characters are credible and likeable, and the ending is tense and satisfying.

Books: The Bookseller

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Tim Sullivan’s The Bookseller is an engaging murder mystery that explores the world of rare books.

The Bookseller by Tim Sullivan

Set in Bristol (UK) where a bookseller is found murdered, the story follows DS George Cross and colleagues as he tries to solve the crime. George Cross is an intriguing protagonist, notable for his emotionless quirks and methodical approach. His relationships with his colleagues add some lightness to the story, though they might feel a bit too well-crafted at times – I suspect the police workplace may be a little less rosy than it’s portrayed in this story. Still, his unique personality keeps the narrative going along.

The is compelling, with the crimes and feuds within the book trade providing a new and intriguing backdrop. Sullivan uses the details of this niche industry effectively, adding depth without slowing the plot’s pace. It’s not just about solving the crime; it’s about understanding the characters and their motives, which makes this story satisfying. While the plot twists and turns, it remains clear and easy to follow. The resolution ties things together well, leaving no loose ends. It’s a straightforward but well-executed mystery that keeps you guessing without being overly complex.

The Bookseller is a very enjoyable read for anyone who loves murder mysteries with a unique setting and a slightly unconventional detective. It’s a satisfying story that balances intrigue, character development, and a good dose of insider knowledge about the book world.

Books: Deep beneath us

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Deep Beneath Us by Catriona McPherson is a thoroughly good book, difficult to put down – a very complete novel with a satisfying ending.

Having lost her job, her house, and custody of her son after a divorce, Tabitha Muir returns to her childhood home in Scotland’s Hiskith and thinks this must be rock bottom – but worse is to come.

An unplanned explosion at the dam on the loch and the suspicious death of her beloved cousin Davey force Tabitha to confront her past demons. Is her cousin’s death just another dark episode in the Muir family’s tragic history? Davey’s closest friends, Gordo and Barrett, help Tabitha try to answer the questions around Davey’s death and Tabitha discovers that nothing she thought she knew about herself and those around her is true . . .

A bleak but with a resilient and ultimately irrepressible protagonist, this novel is ultimately uplifting and affirming. Some of the twists and turns, many of them, are dark and tragic and funny… but in the end, Tabitha is content and so was I. The book was a gently read, intriguing and enjoyable, evocative and at times confronting, but well worth the read. I enjoyed this book very much.