The Dilemma by B A Paris
I came across this book after listening to the “Writer’s Routine” podcast and an interview with the author. I like the idea of the book being set in a 24 hour period and it was interesting to listen to how the author managed to do this.
The 24 hour period is the day of Liv’s 40th birthday part. It’s a very important day, and something – for personal reasons – she has been planning for 20 years. She has a secret and its something that will destroy her husband if he found out. Her husband, Adam, also has a secret which will destroy the entire family. He doesn’t want to spoil the party so he keeps it to himself.
The book alternates between the point of view of Liv and Adam. Each chapter covers one hour. Gradually the reader finds out about their lives, how they met and their family. The story builds until the secrets are revealed.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the tension built nicely.
The Shepherd’s Hut by Tim Winton
I’m a fan of Tim Winton. I first came across him at my book club – for many years “Dirt Music” was our favourite book and the one to beat. When I saw this on the Library’s Borrowbox online service I had to download it.
Winton is an Australian writer and most of his books are set in Australia. He creates vivid landscapes – you can almost feel the dry heat coming off the page.
This one is set in the Australian Outback and is about 16 year old Jaxie. Jaxie has a miserable and abusive homelife and when his father is accidentally killed he runs away before he can be accused of murder. He’s going to see Lee-Ann, his cousin, who he’s in love with – but to get to her he needs to travel through hundreds of miles of Australian Outback with minimal equipment.
It is the story of Jaxie’s life, what happened to him, his journey to see Lee-Ann and the old man he meets along the way.
The story is told from Jaxie’s point of view and is written in Austrian dialect, how Jaxie would speak. I found it difficult to read at first, but I’m glad I stuck with it. This is an excellent book and one that stays with you for a long time.
Pixie Chronicles 