The question for the circle this time: "Do you talk about books with people?" Considering we are all avid readers and some of us work in the book business, the answer would seem to be a no-brainer.... But NOT so! Surprisingly few of us actually discuss the books we read. Reading seems to be a very private affair. Some have a select few who they discuss with, but most use Whodunit as their outlet for discussion.
The book discussed this month was "Murder in the Marais" by Cara Black. The first title in a nine book series, the novel was set in 1993 Paris. The protagonist is Aimée Leduc a a half-French, half-American female private investigator who specializes mostly in computer crime. She partners with a dwarf named René, who also has superior computer skills. The firm's finances are tight however and she takes on a case that is far out of her realm of expertise. Aimée is a thoroughly modern gumshoe who takes on a case with historical implications. The historical back story concerns the Nazi occupation of Paris during WWII and the mistreatment of Jews during that time.
Although not all the Whodunit members liked the book or would read another in the series, there were several positive points they conceded: It did not read like a first novel and the language was at times almost poetic ; the descriptions transported the reader to Paris ; although the narrative was at times confusing, and sometimes implausible, the satisfying ending neatly tied up all the loose ends.
Myself, I would not read another in the series, but I did find the WWII history to be the best part of the novel.
Tonight's book giveaway sent the following members home with a new read: Brian, Caroline, Shawna and Regis. Congratulations gang!
Next month's selection is "Anatomy of Deception" by Lawrence Goldstone.
1 comment:
I seldom leave comments on blog, but I have been to this post which was recommend by my friend, lots of valuable details, thanks again.
Post a Comment