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beriboo's reviews
378 reviews
The Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie
4.0
Review: The Murder at the Vicarage by Agatha Christie
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently re-read *The Murder at the Vicarage* by Agatha Christie, and I’d give it a solid 4 stars. As someone who is sentimental for all things Christie, diving back into this classic Miss Marple mystery was a real treat.
Christie’s knack for crafting intricate plots and memorable characters is on full display here. The setting of the quaint English village, combined with the engaging narrative, creates a cosy yet suspenseful atmosphere that keeps you guessing until the very end. Miss Marple, with her keen observational skills and shrewd intuition, is as delightful as ever.
What I love about this book is how Christie manages to weave a complex mystery that feels both plausible and surprising. The array of suspects and the cleverly planted clues make for an enjoyable puzzle. Even though I knew the outcome, having read it before, I still found myself engrossed in the story, noticing new details and appreciating Christie’s masterful storytelling all over again.
While it may not be the most groundbreaking of her works, The Murder at the Vicarage holds a special charm that never fails to entertain. For fans of classic whodunits and lovers of Christie’s timeless style, this book is a must-read. It’s a delightful blend of intrigue, wit, and nostalgia that cements Christie’s reputation as the queen of mystery.
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently re-read *The Murder at the Vicarage* by Agatha Christie, and I’d give it a solid 4 stars. As someone who is sentimental for all things Christie, diving back into this classic Miss Marple mystery was a real treat.
Christie’s knack for crafting intricate plots and memorable characters is on full display here. The setting of the quaint English village, combined with the engaging narrative, creates a cosy yet suspenseful atmosphere that keeps you guessing until the very end. Miss Marple, with her keen observational skills and shrewd intuition, is as delightful as ever.
What I love about this book is how Christie manages to weave a complex mystery that feels both plausible and surprising. The array of suspects and the cleverly planted clues make for an enjoyable puzzle. Even though I knew the outcome, having read it before, I still found myself engrossed in the story, noticing new details and appreciating Christie’s masterful storytelling all over again.
While it may not be the most groundbreaking of her works, The Murder at the Vicarage holds a special charm that never fails to entertain. For fans of classic whodunits and lovers of Christie’s timeless style, this book is a must-read. It’s a delightful blend of intrigue, wit, and nostalgia that cements Christie’s reputation as the queen of mystery.
The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann
4.0
Review: The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently finished The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann, and it was a captivating read! This book dives into the harrowing true story of a shipwreck, the ensuing chaos, and the dramatic events that followed.
Grann’s storytelling is engaging and detailed, making you feel like you’re right there with the crew as they face unimaginable challenges. The historical context is well-researched and adds depth to the narrative, making it not just a story of survival, but a fascinating look into the time period and the complexities of human nature.
The characters are vividly portrayed, each with their own motivations and flaws, which makes the mutiny and murder all the more gripping. The pacing is excellent, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
While some parts can be intense, it’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down. If you enjoy historical adventures with a mix of drama and intrigue, The Wager is definitely worth a read. It’s a thrilling tale that leaves you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently finished The Wager: A Tale of Shipwreck, Mutiny and Murder by David Grann, and it was a captivating read! This book dives into the harrowing true story of a shipwreck, the ensuing chaos, and the dramatic events that followed.
Grann’s storytelling is engaging and detailed, making you feel like you’re right there with the crew as they face unimaginable challenges. The historical context is well-researched and adds depth to the narrative, making it not just a story of survival, but a fascinating look into the time period and the complexities of human nature.
The characters are vividly portrayed, each with their own motivations and flaws, which makes the mutiny and murder all the more gripping. The pacing is excellent, keeping you hooked from start to finish.
While some parts can be intense, it’s the kind of book that’s hard to put down. If you enjoy historical adventures with a mix of drama and intrigue, The Wager is definitely worth a read. It’s a thrilling tale that leaves you thinking long after you’ve turned the last page.
The Fury by Alex Michaelides
3.0
The Fury by Alex Michaelides
Rating: ★★★☆☆
I recently finished *The Fury* by Alex Michaelides, and I’d say it’s a solid 3-star read. If you enjoyed his previous works, you might find this one intriguing, but it doesn’t quite hit the same high notes.
The story revolves around a gripping psychological mystery, characteristic of Michaelides’ style, with twists that keep you guessing. However, some of the plot twists felt a bit predictable, and the pacing was uneven at times. There were moments when I was completely engrossed, only to hit a slow patch that took me out of the narrative.
The characters are well-developed, with the protagonist’s journey being particularly compelling. Yet, some side characters felt underutilised, leaving me wanting more depth and background.
Michaelides’ writing is as engaging as ever, making it an easy read. While *The Fury* may not be a literary masterpiece, it’s an entertaining book worth picking up if you’re a fan of the genre. It’s perfect for a weekend read or a lazy afternoon.
In summary, *The Fury* delivers suspense and intrigue but doesn’t quite reach the heights of Michaelides’ previous novels. It’s a good read, just not a great one.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
I recently finished *The Fury* by Alex Michaelides, and I’d say it’s a solid 3-star read. If you enjoyed his previous works, you might find this one intriguing, but it doesn’t quite hit the same high notes.
The story revolves around a gripping psychological mystery, characteristic of Michaelides’ style, with twists that keep you guessing. However, some of the plot twists felt a bit predictable, and the pacing was uneven at times. There were moments when I was completely engrossed, only to hit a slow patch that took me out of the narrative.
The characters are well-developed, with the protagonist’s journey being particularly compelling. Yet, some side characters felt underutilised, leaving me wanting more depth and background.
Michaelides’ writing is as engaging as ever, making it an easy read. While *The Fury* may not be a literary masterpiece, it’s an entertaining book worth picking up if you’re a fan of the genre. It’s perfect for a weekend read or a lazy afternoon.
In summary, *The Fury* delivers suspense and intrigue but doesn’t quite reach the heights of Michaelides’ previous novels. It’s a good read, just not a great one.
The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff
3.0
Review: The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff
Rating: ★★★☆☆
After nearly three months, I finally finished The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff, and I’d give it a solid three stars. It's an interesting read with a unique premise, but it didn't quite captivate me all through.
While actively reading it, I found the story engaging and the writing easy to follow. The plot centers around a woman navigating her life in a small Indian village, with themes of empowerment and justice woven throughout. Shroff's storytelling is vivid, and the cultural insights are fascinating.
However, whenever I took a break from the book, I found it hard to muster the enthusiasm to pick it back up. It wasn’t that the book was bad, but it just didn’t have that “can’t-put-it-down” factor for me.
The ending, in particular, left me scratching my head. It felt really odd and came out of nowhere, almost like it belonged to a different story. It was unbelievable and didn't quite match the tone or direction of the rest of the book.
Overall, The Bandit Queens has its moments and offers a glimpse into a different world, but it didn't entirely work for me. If you’re looking for something different and don’t mind a bit of a disjointed ending, give it a try.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
After nearly three months, I finally finished The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff, and I’d give it a solid three stars. It's an interesting read with a unique premise, but it didn't quite captivate me all through.
While actively reading it, I found the story engaging and the writing easy to follow. The plot centers around a woman navigating her life in a small Indian village, with themes of empowerment and justice woven throughout. Shroff's storytelling is vivid, and the cultural insights are fascinating.
However, whenever I took a break from the book, I found it hard to muster the enthusiasm to pick it back up. It wasn’t that the book was bad, but it just didn’t have that “can’t-put-it-down” factor for me.
The ending, in particular, left me scratching my head. It felt really odd and came out of nowhere, almost like it belonged to a different story. It was unbelievable and didn't quite match the tone or direction of the rest of the book.
Overall, The Bandit Queens has its moments and offers a glimpse into a different world, but it didn't entirely work for me. If you’re looking for something different and don’t mind a bit of a disjointed ending, give it a try.
Uncle Paul by Celia Fremlin
4.0
Review: Uncle Paul by Celia Fremlin
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently finished *Uncle Paul* by Celia Fremlin, and I’d rate it a solid 4 stars. Fremlin has a knack for creating an incredibly steady, haunting atmosphere that builds tension throughout the book, purely based on the characters' fear. It’s a masterclass in psychological suspense.
From the very beginning, you can feel the unease creeping in. Fremlin's writing is subtle but powerful, and she manages to make you feel scared even though nothing dramatic happens until the very end. That’s the genius of it – the way she uses atmosphere to keep you on edge. You’re constantly waiting for something to happen, and that anticipation is what makes the book so gripping.
Some readers might be put off by the fact that the "action" doesn’t kick in until the final chapters, but for me, that’s what made it so effective. It’s a slow burn that pays off in spades. You’re drawn into the characters' fears and anxieties, and by the time the climax arrives, you’re fully invested and genuinely spooked.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that rely on atmosphere and character development rather than nonstop action, Uncle Paul is definitely worth a read. Celia Fremlin’s ability to create tension out of thin air is truly impressive.
Rating: ★★★★☆
I recently finished *Uncle Paul* by Celia Fremlin, and I’d rate it a solid 4 stars. Fremlin has a knack for creating an incredibly steady, haunting atmosphere that builds tension throughout the book, purely based on the characters' fear. It’s a masterclass in psychological suspense.
From the very beginning, you can feel the unease creeping in. Fremlin's writing is subtle but powerful, and she manages to make you feel scared even though nothing dramatic happens until the very end. That’s the genius of it – the way she uses atmosphere to keep you on edge. You’re constantly waiting for something to happen, and that anticipation is what makes the book so gripping.
Some readers might be put off by the fact that the "action" doesn’t kick in until the final chapters, but for me, that’s what made it so effective. It’s a slow burn that pays off in spades. You’re drawn into the characters' fears and anxieties, and by the time the climax arrives, you’re fully invested and genuinely spooked.
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers that rely on atmosphere and character development rather than nonstop action, Uncle Paul is definitely worth a read. Celia Fremlin’s ability to create tension out of thin air is truly impressive.
The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enríquez
3.5
Review: The Dangers of Smoking in Bed by Mariana Enríquez
Rating: ★★★☆☆☆
I recently finished *The Dangers of Smoking in Bed* by Mariana Enríquez, and I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars. This collection of short stories is a dark, gritty dive into the eerie and unsettling, with Enríquez’s unique voice shining through each tale.
The stories are deeply atmospheric, filled with haunting imagery and a sense of dread that lingers long after you’ve put the book down. Enríquez excels at creating a palpable tension, and her writing is sharp and evocative. Each story has a way of getting under your skin, making you question the line between the real and the supernatural.
However, not all stories hit the mark equally. Some are incredibly powerful and memorable, while others feel a bit disjointed or lack a satisfying conclusion. This unevenness is what holds me back from giving it a higher rating.
Despite this, I found myself drawn back to the book each time I took a break. The storytelling is compelling, and the raw, visceral nature of Enríquez’s writing kept me engaged. The collection explores themes of fear, trauma, and the macabre, making it a must-read for fans of dark fiction and horror.
Overall, The Dangers of Smoking in Bed is an intriguing and chilling read that showcases Mariana Enríquez’s talent for crafting eerie, thought-provoking stories. While it has its ups and downs, the collection as a whole is well worth your time.
Rating: ★★★☆☆☆
I recently finished *The Dangers of Smoking in Bed* by Mariana Enríquez, and I’d give it a solid 3.5 stars. This collection of short stories is a dark, gritty dive into the eerie and unsettling, with Enríquez’s unique voice shining through each tale.
The stories are deeply atmospheric, filled with haunting imagery and a sense of dread that lingers long after you’ve put the book down. Enríquez excels at creating a palpable tension, and her writing is sharp and evocative. Each story has a way of getting under your skin, making you question the line between the real and the supernatural.
However, not all stories hit the mark equally. Some are incredibly powerful and memorable, while others feel a bit disjointed or lack a satisfying conclusion. This unevenness is what holds me back from giving it a higher rating.
Despite this, I found myself drawn back to the book each time I took a break. The storytelling is compelling, and the raw, visceral nature of Enríquez’s writing kept me engaged. The collection explores themes of fear, trauma, and the macabre, making it a must-read for fans of dark fiction and horror.
Overall, The Dangers of Smoking in Bed is an intriguing and chilling read that showcases Mariana Enríquez’s talent for crafting eerie, thought-provoking stories. While it has its ups and downs, the collection as a whole is well worth your time.
The Other Half by Charlotte Vassell
2.0
2⭐️
Well, I did not enjoy this book.
There is a murder at the beginning of the book, absolute waffle for next 80% of it, picks up a bit near the end and then the ending was just terrible, in multiple ways.
The characters are all unlikeable, even the ones we’re supposed to be rooting for. Very one dimensional.
I’m not sure where the comedy was in this, the only remotely funny bit was the police officers reaction to the architects. I’m all for dark comedy and satire, but a lot of the time I felt the author was actually a bit sneering and seemed to be constantly trying to prove how intelligent she is, which makes any attempt at satire come across a bit more like a sense of poking fun or someone you are measuring yourself against.
I think that and the strange obsession with diets were a bit if an accidental projection from the author. I wouldn’t recommend this if you have an ED, although it’s never really mentioned in the book the way food is talked about would be very triggering.
If you are part way through and scrolling through reviews to see if it gets better, like I did, it doesn’t.
Well, I did not enjoy this book.
There is a murder at the beginning of the book, absolute waffle for next 80% of it, picks up a bit near the end and then the ending was just terrible, in multiple ways.
The characters are all unlikeable, even the ones we’re supposed to be rooting for. Very one dimensional.
I’m not sure where the comedy was in this, the only remotely funny bit was the police officers reaction to the architects. I’m all for dark comedy and satire, but a lot of the time I felt the author was actually a bit sneering and seemed to be constantly trying to prove how intelligent she is, which makes any attempt at satire come across a bit more like a sense of poking fun or someone you are measuring yourself against.
I think that and the strange obsession with diets were a bit if an accidental projection from the author. I wouldn’t recommend this if you have an ED, although it’s never really mentioned in the book the way food is talked about would be very triggering.
If you are part way through and scrolling through reviews to see if it gets better, like I did, it doesn’t.
The Memory Police by Yōko Ogawa
3.0
The Memory Police by Yōko Ogawa is a captivating and eerie exploration of memory and loss in a dystopian society. The premise of the story, where memories are gradually erased and objects disappear from existence, is both chilling and thought-provoking. Ogawa's writing style is lyrical and atmospheric, painting a vivid picture of a world where the past is constantly slipping away.
While I found the concept of the novel to be incredibly intriguing, I did have some issues with the pacing. At times, the story felt slow and meandering, with not enough plot development to keep me fully engaged. Additionally, the characters, while interesting, felt somewhat lacking in depth. I wanted to connect with them on a more emotional level and understand their motivations and struggles more fully.
Despite these shortcomings, The Memory Police is a beautifully written and haunting novel that will stay with me long after reading. Ogawa's exploration of memory, identity, and the power of forgetting is both poignant and timely, making this a worthwhile read for fans of dystopian fiction. While it may not have fully met my expectations in terms of character development and pacing, I still found it to be a compelling and thought-provoking read.
While I found the concept of the novel to be incredibly intriguing, I did have some issues with the pacing. At times, the story felt slow and meandering, with not enough plot development to keep me fully engaged. Additionally, the characters, while interesting, felt somewhat lacking in depth. I wanted to connect with them on a more emotional level and understand their motivations and struggles more fully.
Despite these shortcomings, The Memory Police is a beautifully written and haunting novel that will stay with me long after reading. Ogawa's exploration of memory, identity, and the power of forgetting is both poignant and timely, making this a worthwhile read for fans of dystopian fiction. While it may not have fully met my expectations in terms of character development and pacing, I still found it to be a compelling and thought-provoking read.
The Mystery of the Blue Train by Agatha Christie
4.0
Agatha Christie's The Mystery of the Blue Train is a captivating and well-crafted mystery novel that had me hooked from the very first page. The story revolves around a luxurious train journey aboard the Blue Train, where a priceless ruby is stolen and a murder occurs. The plot is full of twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat as I tried to unravel the mystery alongside the characters.
Speaking of characters, Christie's ability to create complex and intriguing personalities is evident in this novel. From the enigmatic and mysterious Ruth Kettering to the charming and clever Hercule Poirot, each character brings something unique to the story. The interactions between the characters are engaging and add depth to the narrative.
What I particularly enjoyed about The Mystery of the Blue Train is Christie's attention to detail in describing the lavish train journey and the glamorous settings. Her vivid descriptions transport the reader to a bygone era of luxury and elegance, adding to the overall allure of the story.
Overall, The Mystery of the Blue Train is a delightful read for fans of classic whodunits and mystery novels. Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and clever plot twists make this a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and engaging mystery. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned mystery with a touch of glamour and intrigue.
Speaking of characters, Christie's ability to create complex and intriguing personalities is evident in this novel. From the enigmatic and mysterious Ruth Kettering to the charming and clever Hercule Poirot, each character brings something unique to the story. The interactions between the characters are engaging and add depth to the narrative.
What I particularly enjoyed about The Mystery of the Blue Train is Christie's attention to detail in describing the lavish train journey and the glamorous settings. Her vivid descriptions transport the reader to a bygone era of luxury and elegance, adding to the overall allure of the story.
Overall, The Mystery of the Blue Train is a delightful read for fans of classic whodunits and mystery novels. Agatha Christie's masterful storytelling and clever plot twists make this a must-read for anyone looking for a captivating and engaging mystery. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good old-fashioned mystery with a touch of glamour and intrigue.