Books: July and August 2017

My summer reads were all pretty dark, with the exception of a bit of light relief in Santa Montefiore. 

Burmese Days by George Orwell

I began July with this classic Orwell about the ill fated Flory in Burma whose only real friend is a native doctor at a time when racism and bigotry is rife. The portrayal of the vile orphaned Elizabeth Lackersteen who is brought to Burma to find a husband was wonderful. I found it hard to know whether to feel sorry for Flory or bloody frustrated that he was such a weak man!

Plague: A Cross on the Door by Ann Turnbull

Quelle horreur! I downloaded this audiobook from the library thinking it would be quite a dark listen. Three or four commutes later, it ended. Only after, did it dawn on me that this was a kid's book! 

Canada by Richard Ford

I began reading this following my return from Toronto. This is one of those books which has more impact after you have finished reading it - it stays with you. A great story which is laid out right from the start as being about a bank robbery followed by murder...but not as you know it. The narrative follows the son of the bank robbers as his innocence is lost living under the bizarre and violent influence of Arthur Remlinger in Canada.

The Believers by Zoe Heller

Quite a gripping tale from the author of Notes from a Scandal, this time a family saga as famous lawyer and womaniser, Joel Litvinoff lies in a coma, and how this becomes a catalyst for change for the adult children and finally his stubborn wife, Audrey.

The Italian Matchmaker by Santa Montefiore

I started this shortly after starting my new job as some light relief. Not the kind of book I usually go for but finished it in just a few days and was the perfect antidote to a busy new job. The descriptions of the Italian resort were heavenly, especially the palazzo and the lemon groves. A light love story with a smattering of the supernatural.

What have you read this Summer - any recommendations?

Love Mrs Jones x