Totton South

2020 reviews

February
The thirteenth coffin by Nigel McCrery

Liked by everyone for what it was: an easy read detective novel with an interesting plot. The writing flowed and there was nothing to criticise about the use of language.

January
The Western Wind by Samantha Harvey

If you want an action-packed book, this is not for you. Nothing happens. Set in 1491, it covers a four day period when the priest of an impoverished and cut-off village is trying to prevent the dean finding out that the rich man of the village committed suicide. As, if he did, his wealth would pass to the church instead of staying in the village. The book consists mainly of inconsequential confessions or the priest musing while sitting in the confessional. It is told backwards so the story, such as it is, is not easy to follow. All agreed that some of the writing was lovely and we felt the horrible dampness and poverty that seeps through the book but would have liked a little more to happen.