“Literature is the most agreeable way of ignoring life.” 

Fernando Pessoa

 

Gather ‘round for the Novel Blondes September Book Reviews! Way back in January I set a GoodReads Goal of 52 books this year. I was trying to motivate and energize my reading habit. I’m pleased to report that I’m almost there and fully anticipate reaching the goal. The variety of reading options has led to more reading taking place. Some of the reading for September Book Reviews are audiobook, and I’ll indicate which was paper, digital, or audio. Admittedly, the mix is certainly keeping me going.

 

Novel Blondes September Book Reviews

 

House of Gold

by Natasha Solomons, NetGalley ARC, ebook, historical fiction

In a gilded Vienna of 1911, Greta, marries Albert, a distant cousin from within the Goldbaums, a European banking family. Greta feels lonely, disconnected from the vibrant life she dreamed of having. Albert is cool and remote, resigned to what could remain a loveless marriage of convenience and duty. Time and understanding takes this relationship down an unexpected path, and forges a solid, committed bond. The author loosely styled the Goldbaums after the Rothschild family, a powerful banking network of relatives who ruled European financial markets for decades. Greta and Albert create an interesting story arc, considering her independence, a novel characteristic given the time and her circumstances. A host of other characters (big family) are introduced and the lives of several of the cousins are followed closely as well. Very enjoyable, and led me to follow up with internet reading on the Rothschild family.

 

 

How to be a Bawse: A Guide to Conquering Life

by Lilly Singh, audiobook borrowed through the LIbby app, self-improvement/motivation

I listened to this book on the work commute for about 2 weeks, and felt like I had a very talkative passenger riding shotgun. I think this book probably works best in audio format (at least for me) because the author, Lilly Singh has an engaging, authentic delivery.  Hidden among the mainstream platitudes are a few gems. My favorite quote was, “Say what you mean, but don’t say it mean.” What I really admire is the work ethic that is relentlessly promoted here. Lilly is a star, and has obviously “taken the stairs” to get to the top. Her relentless pursiut of her dream career while staying grounded is refreshing to say the least. If you need a little pick me up, kick in the pants, I recommend this one.

 

 

Broken Ground

by Val McDermid, NetGalley ARC, ebook, contemporary mystery

This is a new author for me, and a contemporary mystery/thriller, which I haven’t read too many of lately. I was missing a good “whodunit” based on how much I enjoyed this one. Set in Scotland, with a female protagonist, Detective Chief Inspector Karen Pirie, the novel centers around a cold case with a reach all the way back to World War II. Routinely, the detective pursues justice for the deceased, while butting heads with her boss, workmates and witnesses. Not the smoothest of operators, her determination may land her in hot water or in the thick of action as she closes cases. Complicating this particular case is the sexy coffee shop owner. Is he a potential suspect or suitor?

 

 

Sold on a Monday

by Kristina McMorris, ebook and soft cover, historical fiction

Yes, I have 2 copies of this one. Ellis Reed, reporter stuck on the society desk. Looking for his big break and shooting random photos on the side. Meanwhile, Lillian Palmer, who has her own news reporting instincts, sees a particularly moving photo.  From this beginning, one small deception snowballs into a fight to save two children. The story is intriguing, the plot and timing move at a comfortable pace, and the historical context keeps the reader turning pages. What is really perceptive about the story is the application to reporting and news consumption of today. How the slightest tilt of a story can skew the impact and outcome. Consequently, when does reporting become “storytelling” of the lying variety. What does one do when they realize  a line has been crossed and  others and the truth are in jeopardy?

 

There You Have It!

If any of these titles sparks your interest, follow the links to find them on Amazon. Check back in a few weeks for the next batch of quick reviews!