apple tree yard & waiting & the house of spirits

04 May 2014



This is my 4th book review post this year. What did I think of these three interesting books...

Apple Tree Yard by Louise Doughty
This one was a good page-turner, and it definitely kept me entertained. The writing created a distinct atmosphere for the story, and it being set in London, it was great for me to be able to picture the places in the book. Overall though, it didn't grip me quite as much as I thought it would, even though there were moments that I was emotionally engaged and invested - it just didn't win me over completely.

Waiting by Ha Jin
This was a random pick in Oxfam books, and I am actually very glad I decided to try it - even though the plot is simple, and the characters not exactly complex, I thought that the story flowed beautifully, like an old folktale. It won't make you sit on the edge of your seat or even be something you get thoroughly taken by, but it is a lovely, tender read.

The House of Spirits by Isabel Allende
I was recommended this by a friend, who has great taste in books in that there are a lot that we like in common. So I was excited to read this one - but my reaction is mixed! Some of it was sensational, and some of it was as dull as anything. I blame it on the fact that I am someone who needs to connect to the characters in some way, and for some reason or other I just did not feel it with those in this book - whether it had something to do with the magic realism, I don't know. However, it is a wonderful vessel to tell the social evolution and history of South America, and I'm not surprised that others love this novel.

I'm already half way through my next book that I am loving, so I'll check back again in 3 books' time!

You can read my other book reviews here.