March has been a busy month in regard to my reading; I have posted nine reviews but read eleven books. I have been getting ahead for April when there are some fabulous books released and I’m on a lot of blog tours. March has given me some diverse books which makes picking my top three difficult but interesting. So, after much deliberation are my top three reads of March.
A Gift for Dying by M.J Arlidge. Being a huge fan of the DCI Helen Grace series I was very excited to read M.J Arlidge’s first stand alone novel, A Gift for Dying. Set in Chicago this is a gritty, grisly and gripping thriller and did not disappoint. Kassy is only sixteen years old but claims to see how and when people die. Forensic psychologist Adam doesn’t really believe her, but as she predicts the next victims of a depraved serial killer she is the police’s only chance to stop the murders. A brilliant read, full of action and great characters.
The Conviction Of Cora Burns by Carolyn Kirby. This debut historical novel fascinated me both in its central character and plot. Cora Burns was born in a prison, brought up in the work house before taking a job in the asylum and finally finds herself back in the prison. After her release she finds a position as an under maid in the house of scientist Thomas Jerwood. Jerwood is conducting an experiment of nature or nurture on a young girl, and Cora soon finds herself part of these experiments. Full of historical detail, gothic in style and with an intriguing lead character this is a captivating read.
Remembered by Yvonne Battle-Felton. On the long list for this year’s Women’s Prize for Fiction, this is a beautiful and heartbreaking story of slavery. 1910 Philadelphia and Spring is in the coloured section of the hospital with her son Edward. Edward is accused of taking a streetcar and driving it into a store killing several people. Spring brings her family book, and with the help of her dead sister, she tells Edward his ancestry and story so his family will come and take him home after death. Bringing to life the horrors of slavery and the continued prejudice after emancipation this is a richly detailed historical novel, full of heart and realistic characters.
All reviews can be seen in full on my blog so please take a look.
April brings some fabulous books including Wakenhyrst by Michelle Paver, Twisted by Steve Cavanagh and The Strawberry Thief by Joanne Harris. I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you in these and other books.
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