Christine Falls: A Novel
by Benjamin Black, John Banville
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Book Reviews of Christine Falls: A Novel
Book Review: Good writing, little mystery
Summary: 2 Stars
Christine Falls is a well written book in search of a compelling plot. The first half of the book, as we are introduced to the major characters and as events move forward is interesting and intriguing initially, but unfortunately never goes anywhere. The author seemingly did not know what to do with the set-up he created.
The balance of the book brings forth a number of revelations which are evidently intended to be major shockers, the central one being the baby trade, which simply lack emotional force as presented. The author's focus on the baby, Christine Falls and its adoptive parents is especially puzzling and seemingly pointless. A narrative digression which adds nothing to the story as a whole.
Unfortunately, despite the noirish beginnings, the novel ends in dullness and a sense that the author was floundering in attempting to find some way to bring the tale to a interesting close. Sadly, he did not.
Book Review: Irish Literary Thriller
Summary: 4 Stars
Another Irish mystery thriller - and another literary one, too. This one revolved more around the Catholic Church than the others that I have recently read. It wasn't as exciting , but it was interesting and it did have some interesting plot twists. All in all, I enjoyed it, but it could have been a bit more thrilling. Also, some of the back-story of the four main characters would have been nice to have a little more of. There is a sequel, but I'm not in any great rush to read it, though I do want to. I can wait for paperback though, for sure.Book Review: Smart and Dark
Summary: 4 Stars
Praise for the prose and the character development. I can see Liam Neeson playing the main character in a film version. Engulf yourself in this smart and dark mystery that connects Ireland and Massachusetts and takes you back in time to the 1950s. Slainte!