On to today's book reviews:
As I'm sure you're aware, I have a tendency to be a wee bit verbose. So for the two books I'm reviewing today, I'm instituting a self-imposed limit of 100 words total (average of 50 per review). I've done it before, and it's a good writing exercise for me at the very least. Without further ado:
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Death Comes to Pemberley by P. D. James
A whodunit based on a beloved story is a fabulous concept, but the execution falls short. So much time spent reviewing and so little sleuthing feels like a waste. This is more a fanfic thriller than a James-worthy mystery. Next time: Lady Catherine de Bourgh as murderess!
Final verdict: **
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The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender
Creepy magical realism meets family drama: this is a melancholy tale about a daughter/sister's struggle to connect. Instead of "you are what you eat," Bender explores "you are what you cook" and the ways we hold each other at arm's length by choice or force. Frustratingly opaque; I wanted more closure and clarity.
Final verdict: **1/2
Don't forget to check my bookshelf (over there on the right) to see what I'm reading next if you'd like to follow along :)
I had been wondering about Death Comes to Pemberley. I read Darcy's Passions recently, a book from Darcy's point of view during Pride and Prejudice and during their first years of marriage. I was a little disappointed by that book too...a lot of reviewing of P&P and the creative parts were pretty cheesy.
ReplyDeleteI read The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake, and all I remember about it was that the brother's sub-plot was really strange...
ReplyDeleteOK, well I'm glad I hesitated and didn't buy these on Kindle. I'm still afraid to buy anything less than $3.99, because what if I don't like it, and then I'm stuck with it! I've been too spoiled by the library. Then again, those late fees would have bought me a couple books...
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