Michael's Book Babble
I'm an indie author and a scribbler of inane babble. I talk about books I've read/liked. Or at least, that's the plan.
Most of the reviews will be considered "mini-reviews." Usually, it's mostly my reaction to what I've been reading. There are people who are far better at doing full and helpful reviews. But I still have fun doing them, and hope you enjoy them!
One of the best "detective stories" I've read in a while...
Kate Atkinson has a way of getting into all of her characters' heads in Case Histories. You're given different POVs throughout, which keeps the story from ever feeling stale or bland. It gives it a unique and personal touch.
Even though this is a detective story, it's by no means a typical detective mystery/thriller. Yes, the novel revolves around mysteries... but Atkinson does a lot more than just simply push the story forward with plot. You really get a sense of all of the characters--and they feel like real people. People you know in real life.
The only thing that kept me from giving this five stars is I thought the ending was a bit sudden. Sure, we're given pretty much what really happened, but then it just ends. I would've loved another chapter or two. Still, that didn't ruin the novel for me at all. Perhaps I'll appreciate it the more I think about it, or whenever I revisit it (it's one of those you can easily see yourself reading a second or even a third time).
This is my first experience with Kate Atkinson, and I'm sold. I will definitely check out her other works.
Susan Jameson does a phenomenal job as the reader in the audiobook version.
4 and a half stars
3