What I'm reading ...

I have started The Outrun by Amy Liptrot. We recently saw the excellent movie adaptation of this book, so when I stumbled across the “original”, I thought that it would be good to read while the film was still in my mind. Here’s the blurb:

After spending her twenties in London, Amy Liptrot returns to her home in Orkney where she comes to terms with the addiction that has consumed the past decade of her life. On the remote island, Amy spends her mornings swimming in the cold sea, her days observing wildlife, and her nights searching the sky for any signs of the Northern Lights. She soon discovers how the natural world can restore life, heal old wounds and renew hope.

Perfect Match - by Jodi Picoult

Another book that I approached with anticipation and was not disappointed. As with all this author’s work, the story is full of detail, which has clearly been thoroughly researched. As usual, I feel that I’ve acquired knowledge; in this book I have learned more about DNA profiling and the making of maple syrup, for example. There are numerous points where one feels that it is clear where the story is going, but she springs a surprise - right up to the end.

I am so glad that JP is such a prolific author, as I have many more books to look forward to.

What I'm reading ...

I have started Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult. This is a favourite author so I am looking forward to immersing myself in this story. Here’s the blurb:

As a career-driven Assistant District Attorney, Nina Frost's life is dedicated to balancing being a mother to five-year old son Nathaniel and seeking justice to keep those who commit the most unthinkable of all crimes behind bars.

But this delicate balance is upset when Nina and husband Caleb find out that Nathaniel has fallen victim to the same crime she strives to fight.

Broken and angry, Nina is determined to seek justice for her son. But as her desire for vengeance drives her to the brink, the lines between justice and crime threaten to blur forever. . .

Thunderclap - by Laura Cumming

I was not quite sure what to expect from this book. When I started reading it, I felt that it was rather slow, but, in due course, I got its pace. As I had hoped, I learned a lot about Carel Fabritius, but much more besides. I was unaware of the importance and sheer quantity of Dutch art, particularly from the 17th Century. It was very interesting to read descriptions of pictures from someone who really understands how to appreciate them. I learned a lot.

The author’s autobiographical notes were also interesting, adding another layer. I think that I now need to go to Delft sometime …