Author: Steven

Carys Davies’ “Clear” might initially lull you with its deliberate pacing, but don’t be fooled. This beautifully written novel set against the backdrop of 19th century Scotland unfolds like a slow-burning fire, drawing you into a world of quiet strength and simmering tensions.

The story centers on two men: John, a minister sent to a remote island to evict its sole inhabitant in the wake of the brutal Clearances, and Ivar, the Gaelic-speaking islander facing eviction. Davies masterfully weaves together their perspectives, crafting a powerful exploration of displacement, cultural divides, and the resilience of the human spirit.

While the historical context of the Highland Clearances and the schism within the Presbyterian Church adds depth and weight to the narrative, “Clear” is ultimately a story about connection. Despite the language barrier and the weight of their circumstances, John and Ivar find a way to communicate, building a fragile trust and a surprising friendship. Their bond transcends their differences, offering a glimmer of hope against the harsh backdrop of forced eviction and religious upheaval.

Davies writes with a lyrical touch, painting vivid pictures of the windswept island and the churning emotions within her characters.

This is a novel that rewards patience. If you’re looking for a fast-paced thriller, “Clear” might not be for you. But for those who appreciate a beautifully crafted story that lingers long after the final page, “Clear” is a gem.

Scott Preston’s “The Borrowed Hills” isn’t just a novel, it’s an experience. It’s the desolate beauty of the Cumbrian fells woven together with the raw desperation of men pushed to the brink. For fans of Cormac McCarthy’s stark prose, this book delivers a similar punch.

The story follows Steve Elliman, a farmer grappling with the devastating foot-and-mouth outbreak that decimates his livelihood and community. Preston’s descriptions are nothing short of breathtaking. He doesn’t just paint the Cumbrian landscape, he makes you feel the bite of the wind, the damp wool of the sheep, the weight of tradition pressing down on these weathered men.

But “The Borrowed Hills” is more than just scenery. It’s a story of resilience, of the lengths men will go to for their land and their way of life. Steve’s desperation leads him down a dangerous path, one that forces him to confront his own demons and the complex relationships he has with his neighbor, William, and William’s enigmatic wife, Helen.

The characters are superbly drawn. Steve is a flawed but relatable protagonist, a man hardened by life but not devoid of compassion. William is a stoic enigma, and Helen brings a touch of mystery and simmering tension to the narrative.

The story takes a dramatic turn when Steve and William embark on a desperate heist, one that pushes their morals and their bond to the breaking point. The tension builds with each turn of the page, culminating in a climax that’s both shocking and strangely inevitable.

This is not a comfortable read. Preston doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of rural life, the violence of the cullings, the desperation that can fester in a man’s soul. But that’s precisely what makes it so brilliant. It’s a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, a testament to the enduring power of the human spirit set against the unforgiving backdrop of the natural world.

Tove Alsterdal’s “Deep Harbour” isn’t just a murder mystery; it’s a tapestry of suspense, social commentary, and personal revelation. Alsterdal plunges us into the depths of a mystery, where the discovery of a murdered man unearths a long-buried past.

The novel blends the investigation with the fascinating social history of Swedish communists and the plight of American Vietnam War deserters who sought refuge in Sweden during the late 1960s. This dual timeline adds remarkable depth, with the lingering shadows of the past.

But what elevates “Deep Harbour” is its exploration of Detective Eira Sjödin’s own family history. As Eira delves into the present mystery, she uncovers secrets that force her to confront a past she never knew existed. This personal journey adds an emotional layer to the narrative, making us deeply invested in Eira’s well-being and the truth she seeks.

Alsterdal’s writing is crisp and suspenseful, keeping you on the edge of your seat as the investigation unfolds. The characters are richly drawn, each with their own complexities and secrets.

Highly recommend!

“Neferura” by Malayna Evans is a captivating historical thriller that immerses you in the opulent and treacherous world of Ancient Egypt. While the initial introduction to the many characters and their titles might feel daunting, persevere! The payoff is a richly detailed and suspenseful journey that brings a fascinating lesser-known historical figure to life.

Evans’ meticulous research shines through in her vivid descriptions of the palaces, rituals, and political landscape. You’ll feel the scorching desert sun on your skin and smell the fragrant incense burning in the temples. This immersive setting becomes the backdrop for a plot brimming with intrigue and betrayal.

Neferura, the daughter of two pharaohs, Hatshepsut and Thutmose II, is a captivating protagonist. Her struggle to carve her own path in a world dominated by men is both relatable and inspiring. The supporting characters, particularly the women in Neferura’s life, are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.

While the initial pacing might be deliberate, it allows the reader to fully absorb the intricacies of the Egyptian court. Once the story takes hold, it’s hard to put down. Twists and turns keep you guessing, and the underlying themes of family, duty, and the fight for power resonate long after the final page.

“Neferura” is a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a strong dose of intrigue. It’s a testament to the author’s talent for storytelling and historical research.

“The King’s Mother” by Annie Garthwaite is a captivating dive into the heart of the War of the Roses, but it’s not just another account of battles and bloodshed. This book shines a light on the powerful women who played a pivotal role behind the scenes, particularly Cecily Neville, the titular “King’s Mother.”

The author brings the House of York to life, vividly portraying the sibling rivalries that threatened to tear the family apart. Cecily Neville emerges as a force to be reckoned with, a woman of unwavering ambition and shrewd political maneuvering. But she’s not the only one, the book weaves in the stories of other influential women.

What elevates “The King’s Mother” is its focus on these women’s agency. This is not history whitewashed to focus solely on men. We see the calculations, the sacrifices, and the undeniable power wielded by these remarkable figures.

If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on the War of the Roses, one that delves into the often-overlooked contributions of women, then “The King’s Mother” is a must-read. It’s a brilliantly written account that’s both informative and utterly engrossing. Highly recommended!

“Westport” by James Comey is a good mystery novel that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The story unfolds in a quirky investment business based in a quaint New England town, setting the stage for a classic closed-room murder mystery with a modern twist.

Comey crafts a diverse cast of personalities, each with their own quirks and complexities. As the story progresses, these characters grow on you, making it easy to become invested in their fates and motivations.

With its clever twists and turns, Comey keeps readers guessing until the very end. The closed-room setting adds an extra layer of tension, as suspicion mounts and secrets are revealed. Comey delivers a neat solution that ties up loose ends while still leaving room for surprises.

C.S. Green’s “Down Among the Dead” offers a solid foundation for a police procedural. Detective Rose Gifford is a compelling lead, and the central mystery is intriguing enough to keep you turning pages. The characters, both living and deceased (supposedly), are well-developed and add layers to the investigation.

However, the narrative stumbles under the weight of excessive backstory. While some background can be helpful, the novel delves into unnecessary details that bog down the pacing. This is further compounded by the inclusion of ghostly encounters. While the concept might hold some appeal, the execution here feels out of place, jarring the reader.

For fans of traditional police procedurals, “Down Among the Dead” might feel like a missed opportunity. The core elements are there, but the extra baggage prevents the story from reaching its full potential. If you’re looking for a straightforward detective thriller, this might not be your cup of tea.

Neil Lancaster’s “The Devil You Know” is a masterclass in Scottish crime fiction, solidifying the Max Craigie series as a must-read for any fan of the genre. This latest installment takes everything I loved about the previous books and cranks it up a notch.

The story itself is a gripping cold case come alive. The disappearance of Beata Dabrowski years ago is a puzzle begging for a solution, and the arrival of a shady informant throws the investigation into overdrive. DS Max Craigie and DI Alison Calder are back, and their dynamic partnership continues to crackle with wit and intelligence. You can’t help but root for this team as they navigate the murky waters of Glasgow’s criminal underworld.

Lancaster’s talent for character development truly shines in “The Devil You Know.” Craigie and Calder feel like old friends by now, each with their own quirks and vulnerabilities that make them all the more endearing. The supporting cast is equally well-drawn, adding depth and texture to the narrative.

While the suspense keeps you guessing until the very end, the resolution is satisfyingly earned. There are no cheap twists or outlandish reveals, just a well-crafted conclusion that ties up all the loose ends.

“The Devil You Know” is a prime example of Scottish Noir done right. It’s dark, atmospheric, and packed with heart. If you’re looking for a gripping crime novel with characters you’ll care about, then this is the book for you. Just be warned, it might make you want to binge-read the entire Max Craigie series!

“The Shadow Network” by Tony Kent is an espionage rollercoaster you won’t want to get off. This fast-paced thriller throws you headfirst into a world of long-dormant Russian sleeper agents, their tendrils wrapped around some of the world’s most pressing issues. The author masterfully crafts a scenario that’s not just thrilling, but chillingly believable.

Just when you think you’ve got a handle on the plot, “The Shadow Network” throws in a delicious twist, keeping you guessing until the very satisfying – and surprising – end. This one is perfectly primed for a streaming service adaptation.

Set against the backdrop of 1930s Warwickshire, Natalie Marlowe’s “The Red Hollow” isn’t your average cozy murder mystery. It’s a heart-pounding descent into madness where the lines between reality and delusion blur magnificently.

Marlowe paints a picture of Red Hollow Hall, a sanatorium for men, with such vivid strokes that you practically feel the damp creeping up the walls and the weight of secrets pressing down. The patients themselves are a captivating cast, their fractured psyches adding a layer of unease that perfectly complements the rumors of a vengeful mermaid haunting the flooded grounds.

This is a novel that unfolds with the slow, deliberate grace of a creeping fog. Each twist is a punch to the gut, leaving you questioning everything you thought you knew. Just when you think you’ve grasped a thread of truth, Marlowe yanks it away, sending you spiraling deeper into the unsettling world she’s crafted.

Prepare to be unsettled. “The Red Hollow” flirts with the surreal, weaving elements of the occult and the psychological into a tapestry that’s as disturbing as it is enthralling. Marlowe’s prose is sharp and evocative, perfectly capturing the grim atmosphere of the era.

If you’re looking for a light, fluffy mystery, look elsewhere. But if you crave a dark, atmospheric tale that will stay with you long after the final page, then “The Red Hollow” is a must-read. I hope there are more to follow.