Mystery Book Review - March 2020


March books in order read.



Four books were read, four reviews were made, but which match together? 
It's the Mystery Book Review! 
(Scroll way down for the answers.)


The books in review from March 2020 are (read in this order, reviewed randomly):

Me Before You by Jojo Moyes
A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
The Stories of Hans Christian Andersen by Hans Christian Andersen
One Last Thing Before I Go by Jonathan Tropper

Book A:
From the title of this book I expected a death. I went into it halfheartedly and the main character didn't really engage me, plus the first side story wasn't something I particularly enjoy reading about. Then what we could call the first plot point happened and even though I still wasn't enamoured by the characters, I enjoyed how the action was written. It was the writing that kept me going. I found myself laughing and grunting in agreement with random lines or sequences. While I can't say I fully warmed to the characters, I was definitely taken in by the style of writing. This was partly the writer's voice, but more their careful crafting and enjoyment of the art.

Book B:
This one was a joy to read, flew by all too fast and had me hooked every part of the way. The characters were so well crafted that it was a delight to join them on their journeys and root for them. I particularly enjoyed the use of backstory to enlighten us on why the main character was who they were. This could have been clunky and ineffective, but with each of these chapters book-ended by philosophical narrative reflection it became relevant and immersive. I closed the book with joyful tears; delighted to have glimpsed into this world.

Book C:
An utter pleasure to read that I did not want the journey to end. Each character had its own hurt and depth, just enough to make you want to know how their journey would end and hope for a more pleasant one than was often suggested. What was special about reading this book was the hope mixed with realism. It wasn't just happily ever after, it was a mix of development and affected change. I enjoyed this book so much that I've been looking for a pretty edition to add to my wish list, as it'd be a strong addition to my personal bookshelf and I'll miss it when I have to return it to the library.

Book D:
This has been on my reading list for far too long and it was the reason for venturing out to the library during a time when any trip outdoors ought to be justifiable. It didn't disappoint but not everything about it blew my socks off. I was bawling my eyes out at the end, and at random moments along the way because, even though I wasn't fully convinced by the main character (liked but didn't believe), the ones around filled the gaps to hook me into the story. This was more than enough to imagine myself in the situation and fully empathise with all of them. From a writer's perspective I questioned a few things, but forgave most, as I was able to hush those critical voices and wanted to ride past them to just let the book be what it should be: beautiful entertainment.































March books in review order.


Book A: One Last Thing Before I Go by Jonathan Tropper
Book B: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman
Book C: The Stories of Hans Christian Andersen by Hans Christian Andersen
Book D: Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

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