3. Book Reviews 2023

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Rating Scale:

*****  Fantastic! You’ve gotta read this one!

****  Great. Well worth a look

***   OK. You may enjoy it.

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“A Time of Youth: San Francisco 1966-1867” by William Gedney

Rating: ****1/2

Genre: Non-Fiction: Art. Photo Journalism

Read: May

A fascinating photo journal, and essays about the photographer and his subjects, featuring photos around San Franciso from 1966-1967. For lovers of photography, art, social movements and San Francisco.

“Crochet with London Kaye: Projects and Ideas to Yarn Bomb Your Life” by London Kaye

Rating: ****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Arts and Crafts

Read: April-May

What a handy book. I am in the process of learning to crochet and this wonderful, aspiration book gives you everything you need to get started. There are lots of fun and crazy projects to add to the goals list.

“Chet Baker: His Life and Music” by Jeroen de Valk

Rating: ****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Biography/Music

Read: April-May

“Chet Baker his life and Music” offers a comprehensive account of the life and music of Chet Baker. It is written in a conversational style rather than a standard linear biography. It is incredibly well researched and features excerpts from interviews with Baker, other musicians, his family and friends. de Valk provides a complete account of Baker’s on going health and drug issues and how they impacted on his performance and life. The book includes a wonderful collection of very personal photos and a handy (and surprisingly long) discography. An interesting account of a man whose work I admire greatly. One for fans.

“Fly me to Moongate Manor” by Kate Forster

Rating: ****1/2

Genre: Fiction: Romance

Read: May

Amanda is practically destitute. Her mother has recently died from brain cancer, her boyfriend is non-committal, she has just lost her job and to top it all off she has been evicted from her tiny New York apartment. Out of the blue, she receives notice that her mother has won a competition, and the prize goes to her. Amanda has won a house in a small village near Newcastle in her mother’s home country (England). Amanda travels to her new home, Moongate Manor, and takes on the massive task of restoring the estate’s gardens. But it’s not just a house and garden, her new adventures result in her meeting a potential romantic partner. Simon the heartbroken gardening assistant, Diana, the former owner of the estate and plenty of friendly locals. This is a delightful, feel-good story. Great holiday reading.

“Sapphire Solution” by M.H. Thaung

Rating: ****

Genre: Fiction: Sci Fi/Fantasy

Read: May

Long-suffering apprentice, Iggy, is desperate to get her trade qualifications certified, but her teacher, Uncle Vernon, is reluctant to support her applications. Following a disaster in the workshop, Iggy finds sponsorship for the “Sapphire Solution” project with a member of the aristocracy. She finds herself caught up in a criminal conspiracy involving the Crown and members of the nobility, including the reformed criminal Lord Richard, who becomes an unlikely ally. The Sapphire Solution is a fun, fast-paced young-adult, steampunk adventure. It is the second book in the series (the first novel being The Diamond Solution) and follows on from where the first ends, but can be read independently without issue. An entertaining read.

“Castle on Sunset” by Shawn Levy

Rating: ****

Genre: Non-Fiction: History

Read: April

Levy’s “The Castle on Sunset” offers a well-researched deep dive into the history of this Los Angeles land mark. The book covers all of the major changes of ownership, renovations and restorations, in addition to the colourful array of guests, and associated scandals. An interesting look at one part of the checkered history of tinsel town.

“The Island Sisters” by Micki Berthelot Morency

Rating: ****

Genre: Fiction: Contemporary Women’s Fiction

Read: April

“The Island Sisters” is an engaging novel examining the lives of four friends. The women met during their first year of university, all living away from home (their islands) and needing to manage issues related to their upbringing. The story starts when two of the friends graduate and two, for various reasons, don’t. The bonds of friendship prove invaluable as the women attempt to meet the expectations of their partners, parents, culture and religion, while trying to break free of all of those constraints in order to live their true lives. This is a wonderful tribute to the importance of friendship and love. The characters are believable and you find yourself caught up in the drama of their individual lives. I found the references to the political corruption of Haiti particularly interesting. Well worth a look.

“Collateral Damage” by Robin Bowles

Rating: *****

Genre: Non Fiction: True Crime

Read: April

During her 24 years as a true crime writer, Robin Bowles has encountered the best and worst of the judicial system. She has interviewed and shared the stories of many perpetrators, legal practitioners, and victims. “Collateral Damage” tells the stories of some of the unintended victims of crime and systemic failures.

The stories are a combination of the upsetting, alarming and in some instances (not many) the slightly amusing. One hopes that the examples of manipulation and misuse of evidence, poor court and police procedures and general abuses of power are the exception and not the rule. 

Cases include the story of a police officer who wrote about his experiences relating to the murder of two colleagues, the impact of crime on the wives and girlfriends of organised crime figures and other unsavoury criminals, and the experiences of those unintentionally drawn into crime and corruption while believing that they were acting with the best of intentions. Some of these people are extremely unfortunate, some naïve, and others simply placed their trust in the wrong person/system.

Bowles reports the individuals’ stories and recollections and backs up their assertions with evidence gleaned from her own interviews with parties involved in the cases, and court and legal documents.  A list of references and suggested further reading is made available at the end of each chapter. 

Bowles reports the individuals’ stories and recollections and backs up their assertions with evidence gleaned from her own interviews with parties involved in the cases, and court and legal documents.  A list of references and suggested further reading is made available at the end of each chapter. 

Bowles is clearly a fearless, bold-as-brass investigator, who is not deterred by potential personal safety risks to get to the facts of a matter. My admiration for true crime writers has no bounds. Like all of Bowles’ books “Collateral Damage” is well-written and easy to read. Her sharp wit and dry sense of humour come to the fore (where appropriate) giving the reader a personal connection to her and the cases discussed. This is a must-read for true crime aficionados, and students and practitioners of law and emergency services.

“The Ghost of Gracie Flynn” by Joanna Morrison

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Mystery/Thriller

Read: March/April

Engaging. Keeps you guessing right up to the end.

“The Ghost of Gracie Flynn” by Joanna Morrison is the tale of four friends and two untimely and deeply suspicious deaths. Flat mates and best friends Gracie and Robyn meet Cohen and his childhood friend, Sam, at a university student function. The four become fast friends, with Gracie and Cohen forming a strong partnership, and Robyn and Sam a typical student-style dating relationship. When Gracie dies unexpectedly, the grieving friends drift apart and embark on separate lives, new careers, and new relationships.

Eighteen years later, and purely by chance, the three remaining friends find each other again. Robyn, a successful International Correspondent for a major media outlet has returned to Perth to put some mental space between her and the horrors of the stories she has presented in her role. Cohen has settled down with his social influencer wife and is trying to make a living in finance. And Sam, now a successful author, has moved back to Perth with his British wife and newborn. All are at a turning point in their lives and are once again confronted by the mystery surrounding Gracie’s death.  

When Sam is unable to manage difficulties in his marriage, he turns to another woman and embarks on a brief but passionate affair. Within hours of separating from his wife, he winds up dead. Another mysterious demise of one of the group of friends.

The plot moves between the time of the death of Gracie (2001) and the death of Sam (2019). The narrative is presented in first person, taking the form of a conversation between the ghost of Gracie Flynn and Isla, the new-born daughter of the second victim, Sam. Gracie explains as simply and clearly as she can, how the friends met, how their relationships developed, what happened in between, and what happened after the friends reunited. It takes a little while to adjust to the changes in time, but the flow of the narrative carries you through. You are kept on your toes, wondering who is responsible for the death of each of the characters, and what will happen to the remaining friends, and of course, to Isla. 

The characters are brilliantly presented and believable with their mix of likeable (some more than others), friendly demeanours, their totally human inability to manage their grief and many, many flaws. Especially delightful is Gracie’s description of her love for Cohen and her occasional and fleeting lust-driven sparks of interest in others.

It is great to read a book set in Western Australia (mostly around Perth). The descriptions of place are well-rounded, and you can easily visualise the locations and atmosphere of the scenes.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story and loved pretty much everything about it. It is completely engaging, and I can guarantee that you will find it hard to put down. 

“Peninsula Promises” by Heather Reyburn

Rating: ****

Genre: Fiction: Rural, Women’s Fiction

Read: March/April

This utterly charming book was recommended to me via the Australian and New Zealand Rural Fiction site on Facebook. What a delightful surprise. This beautifully written and easy-to-read book examines women’s lives in rural New Zealand up to and including World War Two. Well worth the read.

“A Dying Second Sun” By Peter A. Dowse

Rating: ****1/2

Genre: Fiction: Science Fiction

Read: March

“A Dying Second Sun” by Peter Dowse is a must for lovers of the sci-fi/fantasy genre. It is filled with magical descriptions of people and places (you get a handy map to refer to) and a cast of (mostly) likeable and believable characters. I was particularly fond of the giant flying worms (worth the read, just for them). There are loads of magical events, political machinations, family dramas and tribal conflict, all set in the midst of a developing environmental disaster. The plot flows smoothly, drawing the reader into the realm of the story. It is an entertaining and fun read, and hard to put down.

“Suburban True Crime” by Emily Webb

Rating: ****

Genre: True Crime

Read: March

“Suburban True Crime: Australian Cases you’ll never forget and some you’ve never heard of” By Emily Webb is true to its name. This collection of true crime contains some well-known incidents, like the case of the “Brownout Strangler”, and a surprisingly large number of serious and horrific incidents. Webb has done her part to ensure that the victims and survivors of these terrible crimes are not forgotten. Like all true crimes, this is not a read for the faint of heart. These incidents range from the deeply sad, to the completely shocking. 

The 35 cases presented,  cover a selection of ‘suburban’ crimes which occurred over the last century. Crimes range from random acts of violence, to calculated murders to domestic violence incidents. Most are from Victoria and New South Wales, with the occasional additions from South Australia and Western Australia. 

Webb’s journalistic skills are evident in her presentation of the facts. All of the cases are recorded in short chapters, making the book an easy read for those with limited time. The accounts are well researched, with Webb often referencing media releases, newspaper articles, police and court reports, and her own interviews and research with survivors and law enforcement. 

Webb has written two other true crime offerings – Angels of Death: Doctors and Nurses who Kill and Suburban Nightmare. With the wealth of available cases (sadly) there is scope for future sequels. Webb is also the co-host of the Australian True Crime podcast for those keen to find out more about her work. 

I received a free copy of this book through Sisters in Crime – Australia, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

“Paris in the Twentieth Century” by Jules Verne

Rating: ****

Genre: Fiction: Science Fiction

Read: March

This has been on my bucket list for some time. “Paris in the Twentieth Century” by Jules Verne is a dystopian view of the future Paris. It is set in the 1960s and describes a world where art, culture and things of beauty have been replaced by mechanics, practicalities and order. It is a fascinating look at the possible development of the industrialised world. Some of his predictions were right (at least in part) and others mercifully, yet to pass (hopefully never). Worth a read.

“The Stranger Times” by C.K. McDonnell

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Supernatural Thriller

Read: March

What a hoot! I had no idea what to expect when I picked this one up off the “to read” pile. “The Stranger Times” follows the messed up lives of the staff of a newspaper dedicated to recording tales of the unexplained, myths, and urban legends. When the city of Manchester finds itself inundated with mysterious events, horrifying murders and unexplainable incidents, the team is on the case. A cracking good read, with loads of laughs along the way. You won’t be disappointed.

“The Curse of Madame C” by Gary Larson

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Humour/Animated

Read: March

Okay, I get that most of you won’t think that a comic strip book qualifies as a book, but I had to add this to my list as I enjoyed it so much. Far Side comics are endlessly amusing, clever and ludicrous. This is no exception. Good for a laugh.

“Harlem Shuffle” by Colson Whitehead

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Literary

Read: February

Ray Carney is stuck between two worlds – that of his father, a Harlem hood with connections to organised crime, and the life with his wife and family as an up and coming African American business man. Set in the 1960s, the book has some similarities for novels like Gil Scott Heron’s “The Vulture” but has an element of sophistication which comes with wiring experience. It is a gripping and engaging story, with believable characters and descriptions of place. Worth a look.

“The Dish Dog: A Novel” by Peter Davidson

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Thriller/Suspense

Read: February

Dr Kimberly King has just landed her dream job in the Financial Audit office of the FBI. Her first task is to join a team of diehard investigators looking into some shady share trade dealings. Mystery company, Emerald Investments, has been providing its exclusive clientele with red-hot stock information for years. Who is behind Emerald Investments? Surely this person or persons must have an inside track. Are they journalists? TV personalities? Someone working for a large investment firm? And what about their clients? Who is the week link amongst the odd collective? Will it be the Dentist? The Account? The Real Estate Salesman? Surely it couldn’t be the bus boy working at one of New York’s finest dining establishments?

“The Dish Dog” by Peter Davidson is a non-stop rollercoaster of edge-of-your-seat suspense, surprise twists and a dash of humour, set against the backdrop of New York city life. The characters are interesting, and believable and will take you along with them for the ride.

The book is easy to read, not too heavy and not too light. It is sure to raise a smile as the ending leaves the story just where you want it to.

“King & Godfree: The Corner Grocer” By Michael Harden, Luisa Valmorbida & Matteo Toffano

Rating: *****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Cooking, Social History

Read: February

What a delightful look at the history of Carlton, Melbourne’s wonderful deli, restaurant and bar, King & Godfree. The book features fascinating anecdotes about the history of the store, brilliant pictures and fabulous descriptions of various continental deli items. And, as if that weren’t enough, there are tonnes of fabulous recipes to satisfy every diet. A wonderful book and a pleasure to read.

“Old Vintage Melbourne: 1960 – 1990” By Chris Macheras

Rating: *****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Coffee Table/History

Read: February

Another delightful pictorial history of the city of Melbourne, Australia. The book is replete with amazing images of this changing city. A pleasure to read, and one that will take pride of place on the coffee table.

“The Australian Dram: Sell Everything and Move to Betotta”

Rating: *****

Genre: Fiction: Humour/Gift Book

Read: January

A hilarious edition to the shelves from the faux publication The Betoota Advocate. This compilation of previously published articles describes the city of Betoota (which does exist – but is a ghost town in the far southwest of Queensland), its residents and local attractions, with all the skills of a major newspaper. This tongue-in-cheek look at Australia’s political issues, socio-economic problems and cultural foibles is a must for all.

“Sh*t Towns of Australia – The Great Aussie Road Trip” by Rick Furphy & Geoff Rissole

Rating: ****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Humour/Gift Book

Read: January

“Sh*t Towns of Australia: The Great Aussie Road Trip” is a catalogue of the best of the tackiest, cr*ppiest tourist attractions the country has to offer. From the Giant Mango to the Giant Earthworm; there are are plenty of bucket list items in this gem of a tourist guide. Must read for all Australian travellers and visitors to the country.

“The Little Black Dress” By Megan Hess

Rating: ****

Genre: Non-Fiction: Fashion/Gift Book

Read: January

A wonderful, pocket-sized gift book full of wonderful illustrations. “The Little Black Dress” by Megan Hess looks at the history of the LBD, popular designs, and its place in fashion history. A joy to read.

“Are You A Bogan” by Boganology

Rating

Genre: Fiction: Humour/Gift Book

Read: January

All I can say is, thank the heavens that I have used the inflated bladder out of a box of goon as a pillow (’tis an Australian thing) or I would never have even scored above the “You must be a Pom” category. Great fun and an hilarious look at bogan culture.

“Banquet: The Untold Story of Adelaide’s Family Murders” by Debi Marshall

Rating: *****

Genre: Non-Fiction: True Crime

Read: Dec-January

Much is known and not known, in equal parts, about the series of murders of young men in Adelaide collectively known as The Family Murders. To date, only the infamous Bevan von Einem has been charged, and with only one of the five known murders.

In “Banquet: The untold story of Adelaide’s Family murders”, Marshall faithfully assembles all known facts, theories and gossip surrounding the series of murders. She examines the key events, politics, possible perpetrators, criminal incidents and social norms from the 1970s through to the present day.

No stone, that can be lifted (and there are many that can’t) has been left unturned in her pursuit of the truth in these murky, mucky cases. Marshall has done her research, trawling through all available court records, newspapers, autopsy, and coroner’s reports. In addition, she has interviewed countless members of the police force, judiciary, victims, their families, various hangers-on, and assorted criminal and underground figures likely to be involved in these heinous crimes. Her encounters with von Einem are both alarming and sad all at the same time.
Marshall has demonstrated bravery, resilience and determination in interviewing some genuinely despicable and dangerous individuals. My admiration for true crime authors’ ability to tolerate the deluge of appalling stories and the intense sorrow of victims and their families never ceases to amaze me.

This is not a read for the faint of heart. Marshall has worked her magic to provide honest and clinical but still sensitive descriptions of the victims and the horrendous tortures they must have endured, prior to the release of death. Regardless, there is no hiding the absolute depravity of these crimes and the perversions of the perpetrators.

The ‘family murders’ are deeply unpleasant crimes. Marshall’s well structure account is alarming, sometimes horrifying and has elements which are almost certainly upsetting for all who read them. This series of crimes and subsequent lack of resolution remains a stain on the city of Adelaide and Australia in general. It is important that the stories of the victims are heard and that the case remains on the radar of the police and the general public. Bravo to Marshall for having the courage and tenacity to prepare and present these materials.

One for lovers of true crime and history.

I received a free copy of this book through Sisters in Crime – Australia, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

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PREVIOUS YEAR’S BOOK REVIEWS

2022: Sarah’s 2022 Book Review List

2021: Sarah’s 2021 Book Review List

2020: Sarah’s 2020 Book Review List

2019: 2019 Book Reviews 

2018: BOOKS REVIEWED IN 2018

2017: 2017 Book Reviews by Sarah Jackson

2016: 2016-book-reviews

2015: 2015 Book reviews download

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