Before I start, don't forget to enter my giveaway - here
I thought I would share my thoughts on the books with you, since I really enjoyed them all in different ways.
I think most people know Charlaine Harris due to her vampire series, which is the basis of the Tru Blood TV series. Although I have read her vampire books, I enjoy her crime novels just as much, if not more. Evidentally, I would recommend you start with the first book in the series, as this omnibus contains the last 4 books.
They follow a lady named Aurora Teagarden, who lives in the South of the USA and seems to have an extraordinary amount of murders occur near her. She is a very relatable character, and very well depicted by the author. These books are described as "cosy crime" by my local Waterstones, and I think that fits them perfectly. They are a typical mystery novel set up, and very easy reading. However, the stories are approached with black humour, and are well written enough to stand out from the crowd. I can definitely recommend them for a bit of light reading on a Sunday afternoon.
This is Max's third autobiographical book about life as a junior doctor in the NHS. I really enjoyed the first two, so my Mum send it to me as a present after I handed in my dissertation. You do not need to read the first books to enjoy this one, though I can recommend them anyway. This is an interesting read, part laugh out loud funny, part serious. It gives you insight into the NHS, and particularly care of elderly people without being in the least bit preachy or overbearing. Max has a real gift for comedy writing, which shines through, and his serious points give you pause to think.
I obviously really enjoy this as I am training to be a doctor, but I think it can be enjoyed by anyone, not just those who are involved in medicine or the NHS.
I'm sure a lot of people will know that the BBC are doing an adaptation of this book at the moment, and I was sure I'd read the book, but I couldn't find it, so got a new copy on sale. It's again autobiographical, the story of a midwife who comes to the East End in the 50s to live in a convent and work with the families there. Parts of it are very amusing, parts touching, and parts sad. The life of those living in the East End is presented through the eyes of a young lady seeing it for the first time, it is a very frank account, but also very moving.
It is a glance at a time and place that doesn't exist any more, but is really brought to life through Jennifer's writing. Again, a book I can recommend.
If anyone wants to find me on Goodreads, I'm always looking out for book recommendations. Find me here
Ahhh...how I wish I would have the time to read right now (something from sources other than scholarly journals).
ReplyDeleteI've watched a couple documentaries on midwives recently and "Call the Midwife" looks like it would be an interesting read!