Five survivors of an Indian Residential School have interlocking paths as adults, with sad, tragic, and uplifting consequences. This seminal and award-winning novel by a Canadian aboriginal writer shares many true events, and I found the writing to be engagingly authentic. It’s a timely book everyone should read.
Lots of family support this past week; getting itchy to get back to the novel. Got about 2 hours on it this week. Sigh.
Fantasy 4-/5
In Edwardian London, Chris Buckley becomes a key investigator in his employer’s detective firm when a Duke is found dead in his mansion—and Chris’s sister’s magical abilities are sought by vying political forces. This one was fun. I loved Chris—faults and prejudices included—and his manic employer. The setting, too, was unique and fully immersive!
I’ve been reading a great book on plotting by Noah Lukeman: The Plot Thickens. Although it is on plotting, a huge emphasis is on character, because of course, character is the basis of plot. Super-useful!
Dave Robicheaux, a detective battling alcoholism, has a slip while investigating the case of the death of the man who killed Dave’s wife, and may, in fact, be the killer. This was a good book. I particularly found the setting of the deep south to feel authentic (though I’m no expert—I’ve only visited Louisiana twice) and it delivered strong writing and characterization.
