In a House of Lies - Book Review

Author - Ian Rankin.

This book was recommended to me on Amazon. I read it as a Kindle read over a week's time.

Situated in Glasgow, the story covers a reopened missing person investigation, due to the discovery of a body. 

What is interesting are the shades of grey within the police force, even as the investigation progresses through twists and turns. 

The pace is closer to a Hercule Poirot than a Tom Clancy, so one needs patience. But it is an intelligent narrative and keeps one hooked till the twisty end.

Overall, a worthy read to those interested in detective fiction, and likely contextual to folks who have visited Scotland or live near.

Skyward - Book review

A review of Skyward by Brandon Sanderson.

I chanced upon this book based on a recommendation from Goodreads. 

Initially it seemed like yet another science fiction story, but the story picked up pace within a few pages. Once I got engrossed, it was unputdownable. I finished it over a day, staying up to read late into the night and early in the morning. It has been some time since a book got me so engaged!

What is interesting about the book ...

The book felt like Ender’s Game, but with an interesting underdog twist. Liked the way in which they built up the character arc of Spensa from being an unwelcome girl with enormous angst at a missing and disgraced father, to becoming a fighter ace. 

I also loved the construct of the talking spaceship M-Bot, with its own sardonic and wacky personality. The banter between the ship and Spensa clearly is once of the best parts of the story. 

What could’ve been better ...

I thought that the climax came a little too soon and with too little a build-up. It almost seems like a story written with a second part book in mind. (which I guess was intentional)

Could have also developed the character of the spaceship a bit more. It is clearly a core character in the story, and it could have played a better part as Spensa evolved. In fact, in the theme of character sequels, I think M-Bot could have its own series.

Who would love this book …

All those who love science fiction, and a good adventure story.