Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Stories of laughter and others of sorrow, 22 Sep 2008
After reading Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action a long time ago as a young soldier, I still cannot bring myself to read a fiction book from Andy McNab; not because they might not be good but because of the first two books being non-fiction. However, as soon as I discovered that he had created a new book of his personal stories I broke my pledge of "no more war stories" and bought it.

The book does build upon Immediate Action but it has an underlying and consistent message, one that I unfortunately witnessed in some ex-Falkland paras. Without telling the lay of the book and thereby removing the enjoyment for other readers, what I will say is that the story follows a young trooper meeting "brothers in arms" and what can result from years at the hard edge. Like Andy's first two books; I read this one in under a week (I spend some time at airports!)

The message is simple; the reality of war is hell and those that return can suffer from physical and/or mental injury. Both types of wounds can be very deep and life threatening; the latter is extremely difficult to heal. The book concludes with open emotion and I take my hat (well, beret as an ex-para) to anyone who can put that onto paper.




Not entirely a new book, but a great read., 19 Sep 2008
If you've already read Immediate Action, this book will contain a lot that's familiar. In a sense, if the book were re-released as a revision to Immediate Action it wouldn't be far wrong. A great read in it's own right, and as the other reviewer suggests Andy has taken a lot of time to touch on the more sensitive aspects of soldiering - in particular the "after" of that career. And that's a good thing. Hopefully in the future Andy and other ex service writers look at the long-term effect of that way of life on the families & relationships that support them too.

A HAUNTING TOUR DE FORCE, 15 Sep 2008
This book does much more than just take over from where Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action left off. It traces Andy McNab's military career from the time he joined 7 Troop, SAS, to the time he left, but covers many other aspects of his subsequent life as and when they overlap with other members of the Troop. In many ways, this is as much their story as his, and McNab is man enough to give centre stage from time to time to giants like Frank Collins, Al Slater and Nish Bruce. Nor does he try to sweep bad news under the carpet; the events of 1998 when Dr Thomas Shanks gunned down his former girlfriend with an AK47 in a Leeds car park are given a full airing. This is a reflective, almost sad, book, but it's none the worse for that. The reality is starting to hit home about the time-bomb of PTSD, and McNab champions the cause of counselling, even for rough, tough SAS lads. This book might be harrowing, but it still carries all the McNab hallmarks of a brilliant sense of (dark) humour, and dialogue and action that crackles with authenticity. I loved it. I just hope the powers that be take heed of what men like McNab are saying.

Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Stories of laughter and others of sorrow, 22 Sep 2008
After reading Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action a long time ago as a young soldier, I still cannot bring myself to read a fiction book from Andy McNab; not because they might not be good but because of the first two books being non-fiction. However, as soon as I discovered that he had created a new book of his personal stories I broke my pledge of "no more war stories" and bought it.

The book does build upon Immediate Action but it has an underlying and consistent message, one that I unfortunately witnessed in some ex-Falkland paras. Without telling the lay of the book and thereby removing the enjoyment for other readers, what I will say is that the story follows a young trooper meeting "brothers in arms" and what can result from years at the hard edge. Like Andy's first two books; I read this one in under a week (I spend some time at airports!)

The message is simple; the reality of war is hell and those that return can suffer from physical and/or mental injury. Both types of wounds can be very deep and life threatening; the latter is extremely difficult to heal. The book concludes with open emotion and I take my hat (well, beret as an ex-para) to anyone who can put that onto paper.




Not entirely a new book, but a great read., 19 Sep 2008
If you've already read Immediate Action, this book will contain a lot that's familiar. In a sense, if the book were re-released as a revision to Immediate Action it wouldn't be far wrong. A great read in it's own right, and as the other reviewer suggests Andy has taken a lot of time to touch on the more sensitive aspects of soldiering - in particular the "after" of that career. And that's a good thing. Hopefully in the future Andy and other ex service writers look at the long-term effect of that way of life on the families & relationships that support them too.

A HAUNTING TOUR DE FORCE, 15 Sep 2008
This book does much more than just take over from where Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action left off. It traces Andy McNab's military career from the time he joined 7 Troop, SAS, to the time he left, but covers many other aspects of his subsequent life as and when they overlap with other members of the Troop. In many ways, this is as much their story as his, and McNab is man enough to give centre stage from time to time to giants like Frank Collins, Al Slater and Nish Bruce. Nor does he try to sweep bad news under the carpet; the events of 1998 when Dr Thomas Shanks gunned down his former girlfriend with an AK47 in a Leeds car park are given a full airing. This is a reflective, almost sad, book, but it's none the worse for that. The reality is starting to hit home about the time-bomb of PTSD, and McNab champions the cause of counselling, even for rough, tough SAS lads. This book might be harrowing, but it still carries all the McNab hallmarks of a brilliant sense of (dark) humour, and dialogue and action that crackles with authenticity. I loved it. I just hope the powers that be take heed of what men like McNab are saying.

An enjoyable novel, 29 Sep 2008
This book takes place in the beggining of the 1900s. It is ideal for those who like rich English family novels full of intrigues. The book is told on first person by the servant of the house that is now on her late 90s. Thus, the author keeps going back and fowards in time. During her years as a servant, a man kills himself and the only witnesses are two sisters, who after that will never talk to each other again. The story unravells the mystery.
the only aspect I didn't like of this book is that the author keeps on revealling what will happen before it actually does. In spite of this, the ending still came as a total surprise to me.


not convinced!, 26 Sep 2008
I picked this up with high hopes, having loved another R & J recommendation (East of the Sun). However, I have found it a very slow read and the writing style clumsy, repetitive and, well, prosiac! I can't help feeling that the author never quite gets Grace's voice right - it's too formal for a housemaid and more importantly, it doesn't match the voice of present-day Grace who is narrating the novel from the 1990s and who we hear from in the present also. I am half way through and unsure if I will finish it. I can see that other readers loved it, but I just don't get it I'm afraid!

A real feel good book., 22 Sep 2008
When I first picked this book up I didnt think id like it much, not being a fan of romance novels but I have just finished reading this book and I really enjoyed it. Its a easy read without any complicated plots and you really feel yourself becoming absorbed into their lives. It is a perfect book for curling up on the sofa with in the long winter nights. Definately worth a read!

BEST READ OF THE YEAR AWARD, 12 Sep 2008
This book is absolutely mesmerising in every way. A fantastic plot, really tight and extremely riveting. The manner in which Kate Morton jumps from present to future to past and from different characters' perspectives is brlliant and totally seamless. The plot turns and twists and comes to a resounding crescendo in the end with all the pieces fitting in together like a piece of beautifully composed music. If this was a painting, it would be a Rembrandt!

One for the Heart, 10 Sep 2008
I have to admit this book had been on my shelves for a fair bit and id chosen books i know id love over this one simply because i didnt think it would be my kind of book. Well i was wrong, once i started this book I literally found it hard to put down. I wanted to read more. Ive read some of the rather harsh reviews but i believe it is a well written, sensitive and consuming book. I felt my heart strings were tugged at how Graces present character was written - I felt Kate Morton did an amazing job of bringing an older character to life. I have read reviews describing her as dull but I think Grace is just tired of carrying around a secret for so long. She realises how her life maybe could of been had she the courage to go for it. I think dull is being slightly confused with regret. I think Grace had many regrets which is why she felt the need to make the tapes.

Anyway i am going on abit too much, I guess I just felt some of the reviews were pretty harsh.
I loved this book and would 100% buy more Kate Morton books.

Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Stories of laughter and others of sorrow, 22 Sep 2008
After reading Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action a long time ago as a young soldier, I still cannot bring myself to read a fiction book from Andy McNab; not because they might not be good but because of the first two books being non-fiction. However, as soon as I discovered that he had created a new book of his personal stories I broke my pledge of "no more war stories" and bought it.

The book does build upon Immediate Action but it has an underlying and consistent message, one that I unfortunately witnessed in some ex-Falkland paras. Without telling the lay of the book and thereby removing the enjoyment for other readers, what I will say is that the story follows a young trooper meeting "brothers in arms" and what can result from years at the hard edge. Like Andy's first two books; I read this one in under a week (I spend some time at airports!)

The message is simple; the reality of war is hell and those that return can suffer from physical and/or mental injury. Both types of wounds can be very deep and life threatening; the latter is extremely difficult to heal. The book concludes with open emotion and I take my hat (well, beret as an ex-para) to anyone who can put that onto paper.




Not entirely a new book, but a great read., 19 Sep 2008
If you've already read Immediate Action, this book will contain a lot that's familiar. In a sense, if the book were re-released as a revision to Immediate Action it wouldn't be far wrong. A great read in it's own right, and as the other reviewer suggests Andy has taken a lot of time to touch on the more sensitive aspects of soldiering - in particular the "after" of that career. And that's a good thing. Hopefully in the future Andy and other ex service writers look at the long-term effect of that way of life on the families & relationships that support them too.

A HAUNTING TOUR DE FORCE, 15 Sep 2008
This book does much more than just take over from where Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action left off. It traces Andy McNab's military career from the time he joined 7 Troop, SAS, to the time he left, but covers many other aspects of his subsequent life as and when they overlap with other members of the Troop. In many ways, this is as much their story as his, and McNab is man enough to give centre stage from time to time to giants like Frank Collins, Al Slater and Nish Bruce. Nor does he try to sweep bad news under the carpet; the events of 1998 when Dr Thomas Shanks gunned down his former girlfriend with an AK47 in a Leeds car park are given a full airing. This is a reflective, almost sad, book, but it's none the worse for that. The reality is starting to hit home about the time-bomb of PTSD, and McNab champions the cause of counselling, even for rough, tough SAS lads. This book might be harrowing, but it still carries all the McNab hallmarks of a brilliant sense of (dark) humour, and dialogue and action that crackles with authenticity. I loved it. I just hope the powers that be take heed of what men like McNab are saying.

An enjoyable novel, 29 Sep 2008
This book takes place in the beggining of the 1900s. It is ideal for those who like rich English family novels full of intrigues. The book is told on first person by the servant of the house that is now on her late 90s. Thus, the author keeps going back and fowards in time. During her years as a servant, a man kills himself and the only witnesses are two sisters, who after that will never talk to each other again. The story unravells the mystery.
the only aspect I didn't like of this book is that the author keeps on revealling what will happen before it actually does. In spite of this, the ending still came as a total surprise to me.


not convinced!, 26 Sep 2008
I picked this up with high hopes, having loved another R & J recommendation (East of the Sun). However, I have found it a very slow read and the writing style clumsy, repetitive and, well, prosiac! I can't help feeling that the author never quite gets Grace's voice right - it's too formal for a housemaid and more importantly, it doesn't match the voice of present-day Grace who is narrating the novel from the 1990s and who we hear from in the present also. I am half way through and unsure if I will finish it. I can see that other readers loved it, but I just don't get it I'm afraid!

A real feel good book., 22 Sep 2008
When I first picked this book up I didnt think id like it much, not being a fan of romance novels but I have just finished reading this book and I really enjoyed it. Its a easy read without any complicated plots and you really feel yourself becoming absorbed into their lives. It is a perfect book for curling up on the sofa with in the long winter nights. Definately worth a read!

BEST READ OF THE YEAR AWARD, 12 Sep 2008
This book is absolutely mesmerising in every way. A fantastic plot, really tight and extremely riveting. The manner in which Kate Morton jumps from present to future to past and from different characters' perspectives is brlliant and totally seamless. The plot turns and twists and comes to a resounding crescendo in the end with all the pieces fitting in together like a piece of beautifully composed music. If this was a painting, it would be a Rembrandt!

One for the Heart, 10 Sep 2008
I have to admit this book had been on my shelves for a fair bit and id chosen books i know id love over this one simply because i didnt think it would be my kind of book. Well i was wrong, once i started this book I literally found it hard to put down. I wanted to read more. Ive read some of the rather harsh reviews but i believe it is a well written, sensitive and consuming book. I felt my heart strings were tugged at how Graces present character was written - I felt Kate Morton did an amazing job of bringing an older character to life. I have read reviews describing her as dull but I think Grace is just tired of carrying around a secret for so long. She realises how her life maybe could of been had she the courage to go for it. I think dull is being slightly confused with regret. I think Grace had many regrets which is why she felt the need to make the tapes.

Anyway i am going on abit too much, I guess I just felt some of the reviews were pretty harsh.
I loved this book and would 100% buy more Kate Morton books.

The Lonliness Of A Long Distance Writer, 30 Sep 2008
Anyone who knows anything of Murakmi's work should be aware that a book about running written by him won't just be a book about running. Short, but never slight, the book muses on many subjects from memory, to why he started writing, perfecting a swimming technique, to some of the best music to run to. All written in Murakmi's own distinctive voice.

Whatever he writes about this is Murakami's voice you're hearing. There is insight into the kind of person he is and also the kind of person runners are. There is plenty of running here and at times it does almost feel like the book has been written at the pace of a long run as its energy is brisk yet economical. For anyone looking for a big novel, it's not here. For anyone who wants a look into the world of a man who likes to write and run and tell you about it there's enough here to keep you entertained for a while.

OK, but not brilliant, 26 Sep 2008
On the whole, I did enjoy this book. I bought it because I'm a runner not because I've read anything by him before. Great to read someone else's take on distance running and some of his observations are indeed spot on but I'm afraid a number of things grated with me. Take these two quotations - "I don't care about the time I run" and "competing against time isn't important". Mmm. Makes him very different from every serious runner I know!! And he IS a serious runner who later on is disappointed by his time in New York and tries hard to analyse the reason. He's also obsessed by the fact that, in his mid-50s, he's past it "that's what happens when you get older" which I found to be somewhat pessimistic. At 60 now, I'm lucky enough to be running better than I have for years - maybe he should rejig his philosophy? One other thing - some of the prose I found to be very jerky, with some use of idiom which doesn't ring true somehow. OK, English isn't his native tongue, fair enough but I notice the book has been translated from the Japanese by someone else. Perhaps it's the translator's fault. But then Murakami has lived in the US and is translating Scott Fitzgerald, implying, I would have thought, an excellent command of the language? Do you have to be a runner to appreciate this book? No, but it would definitely help. His description of how it feels at around 22 miles in the Marathon is right on the money and I like very much his would-be epitaph - "he never walked" to go with his assertion that the marathon is, after all "a running event" something many entrants to London could do with remembering.

Inspiring and humble, 12 Sep 2008
I have just finished reading this book and have to say that i thought it was an excellent read. I am not a fan of Murakami's novels (i abandoned the Wind Up Bird Chronicle half way through) but this has whetted my apetite to perhaps try another.

This book was written by a genuine running enthusiast and fan. He comes across as no different to any runner that i have encountered and this is why the book works. He expresses the thoughts and feelings that most runners will be familiar with, the insecurities around training, the nerves when competing and the frustration with injuries.

I have been running for years and found this both inspiring and motivational. It is written with a light touch and does not seem to take itself to serious which lends it a charm.

I'd recommend this book to any runner!

Fantastic Material for runner even non runners can benefit from it !! Very Inspiring !!, 10 Sep 2008

I found this book very inspiring and charming. When I started reading it, I found it hard to stop, literally read it from cover to cover ...not many books do that to me.
This book is very thought provoking, it makes you think about yourself, goals, its about achievement as well as doing something to live life to the fullest!! Its also about passion and lessons to be learned,and overcoming failure
I love running and this book has motivated me to keep going and set new goals not just in running but also helped drive my motivation to learn new skills and avoid procastination
He talks about how ''if something is worth doing, its worth giving it your best, even more than your best'' !!
I highly recommend this book to people who love running , and other sports. Even for the non-sporty, there is a lot to be learned from this book !!

Disappointed, 08 Sep 2008
Perhaps the best novelist out there and he comes out with this non-fiction entry after a long hiatus. What readers want more of are the incredible stories and characters. How about a follow-up to Norweigan Wood or South of the Border? The fans do not want to wait such a long time to be let down by receivership of a matter-of-fact title.

Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Stories of laughter and others of sorrow, 22 Sep 2008
After reading Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action a long time ago as a young soldier, I still cannot bring myself to read a fiction book from Andy McNab; not because they might not be good but because of the first two books being non-fiction. However, as soon as I discovered that he had created a new book of his personal stories I broke my pledge of "no more war stories" and bought it.

The book does build upon Immediate Action but it has an underlying and consistent message, one that I unfortunately witnessed in some ex-Falkland paras. Without telling the lay of the book and thereby removing the enjoyment for other readers, what I will say is that the story follows a young trooper meeting "brothers in arms" and what can result from years at the hard edge. Like Andy's first two books; I read this one in under a week (I spend some time at airports!)

The message is simple; the reality of war is hell and those that return can suffer from physical and/or mental injury. Both types of wounds can be very deep and life threatening; the latter is extremely difficult to heal. The book concludes with open emotion and I take my hat (well, beret as an ex-para) to anyone who can put that onto paper.




Not entirely a new book, but a great read., 19 Sep 2008
If you've already read Immediate Action, this book will contain a lot that's familiar. In a sense, if the book were re-released as a revision to Immediate Action it wouldn't be far wrong. A great read in it's own right, and as the other reviewer suggests Andy has taken a lot of time to touch on the more sensitive aspects of soldiering - in particular the "after" of that career. And that's a good thing. Hopefully in the future Andy and other ex service writers look at the long-term effect of that way of life on the families & relationships that support them too.

A HAUNTING TOUR DE FORCE, 15 Sep 2008
This book does much more than just take over from where Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action left off. It traces Andy McNab's military career from the time he joined 7 Troop, SAS, to the time he left, but covers many other aspects of his subsequent life as and when they overlap with other members of the Troop. In many ways, this is as much their story as his, and McNab is man enough to give centre stage from time to time to giants like Frank Collins, Al Slater and Nish Bruce. Nor does he try to sweep bad news under the carpet; the events of 1998 when Dr Thomas Shanks gunned down his former girlfriend with an AK47 in a Leeds car park are given a full airing. This is a reflective, almost sad, book, but it's none the worse for that. The reality is starting to hit home about the time-bomb of PTSD, and McNab champions the cause of counselling, even for rough, tough SAS lads. This book might be harrowing, but it still carries all the McNab hallmarks of a brilliant sense of (dark) humour, and dialogue and action that crackles with authenticity. I loved it. I just hope the powers that be take heed of what men like McNab are saying.

An enjoyable novel, 29 Sep 2008
This book takes place in the beggining of the 1900s. It is ideal for those who like rich English family novels full of intrigues. The book is told on first person by the servant of the house that is now on her late 90s. Thus, the author keeps going back and fowards in time. During her years as a servant, a man kills himself and the only witnesses are two sisters, who after that will never talk to each other again. The story unravells the mystery.
the only aspect I didn't like of this book is that the author keeps on revealling what will happen before it actually does. In spite of this, the ending still came as a total surprise to me.


not convinced!, 26 Sep 2008
I picked this up with high hopes, having loved another R & J recommendation (East of the Sun). However, I have found it a very slow read and the writing style clumsy, repetitive and, well, prosiac! I can't help feeling that the author never quite gets Grace's voice right - it's too formal for a housemaid and more importantly, it doesn't match the voice of present-day Grace who is narrating the novel from the 1990s and who we hear from in the present also. I am half way through and unsure if I will finish it. I can see that other readers loved it, but I just don't get it I'm afraid!

A real feel good book., 22 Sep 2008
When I first picked this book up I didnt think id like it much, not being a fan of romance novels but I have just finished reading this book and I really enjoyed it. Its a easy read without any complicated plots and you really feel yourself becoming absorbed into their lives. It is a perfect book for curling up on the sofa with in the long winter nights. Definately worth a read!

BEST READ OF THE YEAR AWARD, 12 Sep 2008
This book is absolutely mesmerising in every way. A fantastic plot, really tight and extremely riveting. The manner in which Kate Morton jumps from present to future to past and from different characters' perspectives is brlliant and totally seamless. The plot turns and twists and comes to a resounding crescendo in the end with all the pieces fitting in together like a piece of beautifully composed music. If this was a painting, it would be a Rembrandt!

One for the Heart, 10 Sep 2008
I have to admit this book had been on my shelves for a fair bit and id chosen books i know id love over this one simply because i didnt think it would be my kind of book. Well i was wrong, once i started this book I literally found it hard to put down. I wanted to read more. Ive read some of the rather harsh reviews but i believe it is a well written, sensitive and consuming book. I felt my heart strings were tugged at how Graces present character was written - I felt Kate Morton did an amazing job of bringing an older character to life. I have read reviews describing her as dull but I think Grace is just tired of carrying around a secret for so long. She realises how her life maybe could of been had she the courage to go for it. I think dull is being slightly confused with regret. I think Grace had many regrets which is why she felt the need to make the tapes.

Anyway i am going on abit too much, I guess I just felt some of the reviews were pretty harsh.
I loved this book and would 100% buy more Kate Morton books.

The Lonliness Of A Long Distance Writer, 30 Sep 2008
Anyone who knows anything of Murakmi's work should be aware that a book about running written by him won't just be a book about running. Short, but never slight, the book muses on many subjects from memory, to why he started writing, perfecting a swimming technique, to some of the best music to run to. All written in Murakmi's own distinctive voice.

Whatever he writes about this is Murakami's voice you're hearing. There is insight into the kind of person he is and also the kind of person runners are. There is plenty of running here and at times it does almost feel like the book has been written at the pace of a long run as its energy is brisk yet economical. For anyone looking for a big novel, it's not here. For anyone who wants a look into the world of a man who likes to write and run and tell you about it there's enough here to keep you entertained for a while.

OK, but not brilliant, 26 Sep 2008
On the whole, I did enjoy this book. I bought it because I'm a runner not because I've read anything by him before. Great to read someone else's take on distance running and some of his observations are indeed spot on but I'm afraid a number of things grated with me. Take these two quotations - "I don't care about the time I run" and "competing against time isn't important". Mmm. Makes him very different from every serious runner I know!! And he IS a serious runner who later on is disappointed by his time in New York and tries hard to analyse the reason. He's also obsessed by the fact that, in his mid-50s, he's past it "that's what happens when you get older" which I found to be somewhat pessimistic. At 60 now, I'm lucky enough to be running better than I have for years - maybe he should rejig his philosophy? One other thing - some of the prose I found to be very jerky, with some use of idiom which doesn't ring true somehow. OK, English isn't his native tongue, fair enough but I notice the book has been translated from the Japanese by someone else. Perhaps it's the translator's fault. But then Murakami has lived in the US and is translating Scott Fitzgerald, implying, I would have thought, an excellent command of the language? Do you have to be a runner to appreciate this book? No, but it would definitely help. His description of how it feels at around 22 miles in the Marathon is right on the money and I like very much his would-be epitaph - "he never walked" to go with his assertion that the marathon is, after all "a running event" something many entrants to London could do with remembering.

Inspiring and humble, 12 Sep 2008
I have just finished reading this book and have to say that i thought it was an excellent read. I am not a fan of Murakami's novels (i abandoned the Wind Up Bird Chronicle half way through) but this has whetted my apetite to perhaps try another.

This book was written by a genuine running enthusiast and fan. He comes across as no different to any runner that i have encountered and this is why the book works. He expresses the thoughts and feelings that most runners will be familiar with, the insecurities around training, the nerves when competing and the frustration with injuries.

I have been running for years and found this both inspiring and motivational. It is written with a light touch and does not seem to take itself to serious which lends it a charm.

I'd recommend this book to any runner!

Fantastic Material for runner even non runners can benefit from it !! Very Inspiring !!, 10 Sep 2008

I found this book very inspiring and charming. When I started reading it, I found it hard to stop, literally read it from cover to cover ...not many books do that to me.
This book is very thought provoking, it makes you think about yourself, goals, its about achievement as well as doing something to live life to the fullest!! Its also about passion and lessons to be learned,and overcoming failure
I love running and this book has motivated me to keep going and set new goals not just in running but also helped drive my motivation to learn new skills and avoid procastination
He talks about how ''if something is worth doing, its worth giving it your best, even more than your best'' !!
I highly recommend this book to people who love running , and other sports. Even for the non-sporty, there is a lot to be learned from this book !!

Disappointed, 08 Sep 2008
Perhaps the best novelist out there and he comes out with this non-fiction entry after a long hiatus. What readers want more of are the incredible stories and characters. How about a follow-up to Norweigan Wood or South of the Border? The fans do not want to wait such a long time to be let down by receivership of a matter-of-fact title.



Inescapably bleak, 29 Sep 2008
An unnamed man and his sun struggle through a post apocalyptic American wasteland. As they struggle towards the coast, they have to deal with cannibals, with disease, thieves and above all the simple day to day challenge of staying fed and sheltered in a scorched earth where ash rains from the sky.

Everything in this unrelenting book is beautifully structured. The title is perfect, it is a "road" book, the journey is the story and the story is the journey. The blasted sparseness of the landscape is reflected in the sparseness of the prose. The characters are flattened, their dialogue is terse and emotionless, the palate in which the world is painted is flat and monochrome, all colour and life crushed out by the terrible grey, fatally wounded world.

I don't think I've ever read such a bleak book, so utterly without hope. Its not that the characters don't have any hope, it's that they don't have any chance, any prospect of hope. In the end one wonders which of the two central characters is luckier in his fate.

The book has been described as a wake up call in a world threatened by global warming. Maybe, but it is really about the enduring strength of human love in extreme adversity.

While being excellent, it doesn't quite qualify for five stars in my book because it is more like an abstract painting or a tone poem than a fully rounded novel. It gives an extremely evocative picture, but ultimately the narrative arc is extremely thin.

So recommended, if extremely harrowing.

Sensational, 29 Sep 2008
I started reading this book about a month ago, but put it down after fifty pages. I could tell that I needed to read this in long sittings, and not twenty minutes here and there. So then I read it again on holiday.

It is not an easy read - you have to work at it. McCarthy's prose is stripped back to the very bones, much punctuation is missing and there are no chapters. And the book is repetitive - the man and the boy get hungry, look for food and somewhere safe to stay, find them and do the same again.

But the overall effect is shattering. The world he conjures up in the aftermath of the apocalypse is stunningly realised, and the bleakness of life, the descent of humanity back into savagery and the man and the boy carrying the flame is almost too much at times. There is a lot of bleakness, a lot of misery and despair (and no, not many laughs). But always there is an indefatigability and a flicker of hope.

I've not been affected as much by a book for a long long time. The starkness of the writing and the bleakness of much of the book will be offputting for some, but this is worth the effort and I cannot recommend it too highly.



Nightmarish post-apocalyptic vision- demands to be read, 09 Sep 2008
Not for the faint-hearted this is an excellent book describing one man and his son's journey south though a post-apocalyptic American landscape. It is several years since "it" happened and the land is scorched, the sun is invisible though the blanket of ash and corpses lay burned into the tarmac. Nothing grows and the few survivors have become savage cannibals. The man and boy exist as the other's reason for continuing their hopeless struggle for survival and it is their humanity that redeems the book and their world. McCarthy's stripped down, deconstructed style has been criticised but I think it works perfectly here. I know it wasn't the authors intention but I think the book could have been longer with more details on the nature of the holocaust (we are never told) and how society and mankind had degenerated to the extent it had. Try to read this one sitting if you can to experience it full emotional impact but beware - you may not sleep too well...

A heart of Darkness, 08 Sep 2008
If you're a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, then this should be high on your reading list. A man and boy's struggle to survive in a never-mentioned worldwide catastrophy is vividly and poignantly written.

If you're looking for a light read, this certainly isn't it - but this vision of hell on earth is certainly a memorable and engaging journey.

On a lighter note - after reading 'The Road' you'll never look at supermarket shopping trolleys in the same way ever again...





A great read, 05 Sep 2008
This was the first McCarthy book I'd read. I bought it based on a Wish List recommendation and I would just like to say thank you, thank you, thank you. Once I got used to the author's quirky style, it became a thoroughly enjoyable read. He uses suspense very well.

Disappointing, 12 Oct 2008
Like most readers who have reviewed this - I loved The House at Riverton and couldn't wait to read Forgotten Garden. My oh my - was she paid by the page? I found that it was really drawn out - too descriptive for my tastes (I like to use my imagination and don't want the author to explain what a tree looks like - thanks!) The writing wasn't up to the same standard and I had "guessed" the answer to the "mystery" well before the end. I also found the constant hopping around from London, Brisbane, Cornwall, 1907, 1913, 1975, 2005 (where are we now?) confusing and unnecessary. Being a pedant, it also annoyed me when Cassandra said she was looking through her "grandmother's scrapbooks" (Rose's) when actually Nell was her grandmother and Rose was her GREAT grandmother - at least that's what she should have been at this point in the story. All in all - I wouldn't really recommend buying it unless you are a die-hard Morton fan.

Good old fashioned storytelling, 07 Oct 2008
I must admit that I was attracted to this book as it mentioned Richard and Judy's Bookclub. Not that I read all they recommend but they are usually worth a look. Then I found out that it was the author's previous book that was referred to "The House at Riverton" so I read that first.

It was good, but for me this one is better. It is set in Australia and Cornwall in the past and present. It starts with a puzzle and a rather heart rending one at that. A four year old girl is left on a steamer heading to Australia in 1912, apparently abandoned and unnoticed by the authorities. Who would do such a thing, and why?

There follows a well written multi layered story that untangles the complexities of the girls life. We see Edwardian society from the viewpoint of the rich and the poor. In the present day we see the girls granddaughter coming to terms with her true heritage. A fine mystery that keeps you guessing.

It is a wonderful adventure, reminding me of Daphne du Maurier and even the Famous Five, but in spirit only.

Thoroughly recommended.

Not bad but a bit long-winded, 05 Oct 2008
I, like many others who reviewed this book, read and really enjoyed 'The House at Riverton'. This book was also good, up to about two-thirds of the way through. It then became a bit laborious when the answer to the mystery became predictable. The skipping back and forth between time zones was O.K. at first but then became confusing. Nevertheless, not a bad read but expected better after the author's first book.

Dull, derivative, souless and unsatisfactory, 01 Oct 2008
A dull read, probably good for a dull day. The plot is straight from Mills & Boon. Little characterisation - people are either good or very bad. A long book which could have been edited to half its length without loss. Each chapter covers a specific time and place - 1900, 1913, 1975, 2005 - but in each chapter there is no sense of time or place. The characters behave the same and use the same vocabulary regardless of era.
It does try to be a modern classic but sadly fails.
Don't bother.

Hard to put down.., 28 Sep 2008
As soon as I saw the back of the book I knew I had to read the book!
It was so hard to put down once I'd started reading it.
There were so many surprises in it. Just when you thought you'd worked it out, there was another twist to the story.
I will definitely be buying her other book.

High personal price of special forces soldiering, 11 Oct 2008
A sad but very much needed work on the nasty realities of soldiering, this book recounts the very moving descent into unhappiness and despair some of McNab's best mates endured in the aftermath of service.

From this book it seems clear that the Regiment is an unnatural substitute for normal family life for young men, i.e., wife and kids are replaced by comradeship, which perhaps becomes foundational for a subsequent dysfunctional life for some of the guys. It means that when they leave there is a sense that they've lost the focus or foundation of their daily existence. And of course, the exposure to the cutting edge of modern military adventurism is the other key factor destabilising the mental health of special forces soldiers, with the inevitable horrible sights, sounds and loss of beloved friends. I couldn't help but conclude that, all the prestige notwithstanding, making it into the SAS is just not worth it for a lot, maybe even most, of the lads who manage it.

A few errors apart (i.e. Kesh RUC station was in Fermanagh, not Donegal, as the latter is part of the Republic of Ireland), the book is replete with fascinating anecdotes and occasional operational accounts, most notably in my native Northern Ireland, where, among my own community (the Protestants), the SAS are revered for their work at Loughgall in particular and against the IRA in general. Many of us would have liked to have seen them given a freer hand during the Troubles, as we are sure that had they been, there would be fewer of our friends and family lying dead in graveyards around the Province.

In closing, I am very pleased McNab wrote this and especially glad he disclosed so much of Frank Collins' story therein also. I was moved to tears at the kindness and sincerity of Collins as accounted in the book, so credit to McNab for not shying away from relating the man's religious convictions. In sum, this book shows us that even the elite forces are just human beings, amongst some of the most noble on the face of this earth. Highly recommended reading!

Stories of laughter and others of sorrow, 22 Sep 2008
After reading Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action a long time ago as a young soldier, I still cannot bring myself to read a fiction book from Andy McNab; not because they might not be good but because of the first two books being non-fiction. However, as soon as I discovered that he had created a new book of his personal stories I broke my pledge of "no more war stories" and bought it.

The book does build upon Immediate Action but it has an underlying and consistent message, one that I unfortunately witnessed in some ex-Falkland paras. Without telling the lay of the book and thereby removing the enjoyment for other readers, what I will say is that the story follows a young trooper meeting "brothers in arms" and what can result from years at the hard edge. Like Andy's first two books; I read this one in under a week (I spend some time at airports!)

The message is simple; the reality of war is hell and those that return can suffer from physical and/or mental injury. Both types of wounds can be very deep and life threatening; the latter is extremely difficult to heal. The book concludes with open emotion and I take my hat (well, beret as an ex-para) to anyone who can put that onto paper.




Not entirely a new book, but a great read., 19 Sep 2008
If you've already read Immediate Action, this book will contain a lot that's familiar. In a sense, if the book were re-released as a revision to Immediate Action it wouldn't be far wrong. A great read in it's own right, and as the other reviewer suggests Andy has taken a lot of time to touch on the more sensitive aspects of soldiering - in particular the "after" of that career. And that's a good thing. Hopefully in the future Andy and other ex service writers look at the long-term effect of that way of life on the families & relationships that support them too.

A HAUNTING TOUR DE FORCE, 15 Sep 2008
This book does much more than just take over from where Bravo Two Zero and Immediate Action left off. It traces Andy McNab's military career from the time he joined 7 Troop, SAS, to the time he left, but covers many other aspects of his subsequent life as and when they overlap with other members of the Troop. In many ways, this is as much their story as his, and McNab is man enough to give centre stage from time to time to giants like Frank Collins, Al Slater and Nish Bruce. Nor does he try to sweep bad news under the carpet; the events of 1998 when Dr Thomas Shanks gunned down his former girlfriend with an AK47 in a Leeds car park are given a full airing. This is a reflective, almost sad, book, but it's none the worse for that. The reality is starting to hit home about the time-bomb of PTSD, and McNab champions the cause of counselling, even for rough, tough SAS lads. This book might be harrowing, but it still carries all the McNab hallmarks of a brilliant sense of (dark) humour, and dialogue and action that crackles with authenticity. I loved it. I just hope the powers that be take heed of what men like McNab are saying.

An enjoyable novel, 29 Sep 2008
This book takes place in the beggining of the 1900s. It is ideal for those who like rich English family novels full of intrigues. The book is told on first person by the servant of the house that is now on her late 90s. Thus, the author keeps going back and fowards in time. During her years as a servant, a man kills himself and the only witnesses are two sisters, who after that will never talk to each other again. The story unravells the mystery.
the only aspect I didn't like of this book is that the author keeps on revealling what will happen before it actually does. In spite of this, the ending still came as a total surprise to me.


not convinced!, 26 Sep 2008
I picked this up with high hopes, having loved another R & J recommendation (East of the Sun). However, I have found it a very slow read and the writing style clumsy, repetitive and, well, prosiac! I can't help feeling that the author never quite gets Grace's voice right - it's too formal for a housemaid and more importantly, it doesn't match the voice of present-day Grace who is narrating the novel from the 1990s and who we hear from in the present also. I am half way through and unsure if I will finish it. I can see that other readers loved it, but I just don't get it I'm afraid!

A real feel good book., 22 Sep 2008
When I first picked this book up I didnt think id like it much, not being a fan of romance novels but I have just finished reading this book and I really enjoyed it. Its a easy read without any complicated plots and you really feel yourself becoming absorbed into their lives. It is a perfect book for curling up on the sofa with in the long winter nights. Definately worth a read!

BEST READ OF THE YEAR AWARD, 12 Sep 2008
This book is absolutely mesmerising in every way. A fantastic plot, really tight and extremely riveting. The manner in which Kate Morton jumps from present to future to past and from different characters' perspectives is brlliant and totally seamless. The plot turns and twists and comes to a resounding crescendo in the end with all the pieces fitting in together like a piece of beautifully composed music. If this was a painting, it would be a Rembrandt!

One for the Heart, 10 Sep 2008
I have to admit this book had been on my shelves for a fair bit and id chosen books i know id love over this one simply because i didnt think it would be my kind of book. Well i was wrong, once i started this book I literally found it hard to put down. I wanted to read more. Ive read some of the rather harsh reviews but i believe it is a well written, sensitive and consuming book. I felt my heart strings were tugged at how Graces present character was written - I felt Kate Morton did an amazing job of bringing an older character to life. I have read reviews describing her as dull but I think Grace is just tired of carrying around a secret for so long. She realises how her life maybe could of been had she the courage to go for it. I think dull is being slightly confused with regret. I think Grace had many regrets which is why she felt the need to make the tapes.

Anyway i am going on abit too much, I guess I just felt some of the reviews were pretty harsh.
I loved this book and would 100% buy more Kate Morton books.

The Lonliness Of A Long Distance Writer, 30 Sep 2008
Anyone who knows anything of Murakmi's work should be aware that a book about running written by him won't just be a book about running. Short, but never slight, the book muses on many subjects from memory, to why he started writing, perfecting a swimming technique, to some of the best music to run to. All written in Murakmi's own distinctive voice.

Whatever he writes about this is Murakami's voice you're hearing. There is insight into the kind of person he is and also the kind of person runners are. There is plenty of running here and at times it does almost feel like the book has been written at the pace of a long run as its energy is brisk yet economical. For anyone looking for a big novel, it's not here. For anyone who wants a look into the world of a man who likes to write and run and tell you about it there's enough here to keep you entertained for a while.

OK, but not brilliant, 26 Sep 2008
On the whole, I did enjoy this book. I bought it because I'm a runner not because I've read anything by him before. Great to read someone else's take on distance running and some of his observations are indeed spot on but I'm afraid a number of things grated with me. Take these two quotations - "I don't care about the time I run" and "competing against time isn't important". Mmm. Makes him very different from every serious runner I know!! And he IS a serious runner who later on is disappointed by his time in New York and tries hard to analyse the reason. He's also obsessed by the fact that, in his mid-50s, he's past it "that's what happens when you get older" which I found to be somewhat pessimistic. At 60 now, I'm lucky enough to be running better than I have for years - maybe he should rejig his philosophy? One other thing - some of the prose I found to be very jerky, with some use of idiom which doesn't ring true somehow. OK, English isn't his native tongue, fair enough but I notice the book has been translated from the Japanese by someone else. Perhaps it's the translator's fault. But then Murakami has lived in the US and is translating Scott Fitzgerald, implying, I would have thought, an excellent command of the language? Do you have to be a runner to appreciate this book? No, but it would definitely help. His description of how it feels at around 22 miles in the Marathon is right on the money and I like very much his would-be epitaph - "he never walked" to go with his assertion that the marathon is, after all "a running event" something many entrants to London could do with remembering.

Inspiring and humble, 12 Sep 2008
I have just finished reading this book and have to say that i thought it was an excellent read. I am not a fan of Murakami's novels (i abandoned the Wind Up Bird Chronicle half way through) but this has whetted my apetite to perhaps try another.

This book was written by a genuine running enthusiast and fan. He comes across as no different to any runner that i have encountered and this is why the book works. He expresses the thoughts and feelings that most runners will be familiar with, the insecurities around training, the nerves when competing and the frustration with injuries.

I have been running for years and found this both inspiring and motivational. It is written with a light touch and does not seem to take itself to serious which lends it a charm.

I'd recommend this book to any runner!

Fantastic Material for runner even non runners can benefit from it !! Very Inspiring !!, 10 Sep 2008

I found this book very inspiring and charming. When I started reading it, I found it hard to stop, literally read it from cover to cover ...not many books do that to me.
This book is very thought provoking, it makes you think about yourself, goals, its about achievement as well as doing something to live life to the fullest!! Its also about passion and lessons to be learned,and overcoming failure
I love running and this book has motivated me to keep going and set new goals not just in running but also helped drive my motivation to learn new skills and avoid procastination
He talks about how ''if something is worth doing, its worth giving it your best, even more than your best'' !!
I highly recommend this book to people who love running , and other sports. Even for the non-sporty, there is a lot to be learned from this book !!

Disappointed, 08 Sep 2008
Perhaps the best novelist out there and he comes out with this non-fiction entry after a long hiatus. What readers want more of are the incredible stories and characters. How about a follow-up to Norweigan Wood or South of the Border? The fans do not want to wait such a long time to be let down by receivership of a matter-of-fact title.



Inescapably bleak, 29 Sep 2008
An unnamed man and his sun struggle through a post apocalyptic American wasteland. As they struggle towards the coast, they have to deal with cannibals, with disease, thieves and above all the simple day to day challenge of staying fed and sheltered in a scorched earth where ash rains from the sky.

Everything in this unrelenting book is beautifully structured. The title is perfect, it is a "road" book, the journey is the story and the story is the journey. The blasted sparseness of the landscape is reflected in the sparseness of the prose. The characters are flattened, their dialogue is terse and emotionless, the palate in which the world is painted is flat and monochrome, all colour and life crushed out by the terrible grey, fatally wounded world.

I don't think I've ever read such a bleak book, so utterly without hope. Its not that the characters don't have any hope, it's that they don't have any chance, any prospect of hope. In the end one wonders which of the two central characters is luckier in his fate.

The book has been described as a wake up call in a world threatened by global warming. Maybe, but it is really about the enduring strength of human love in extreme adversity.

While being excellent, it doesn't quite qualify for five stars in my book because it is more like an abstract painting or a tone poem than a fully rounded novel. It gives an extremely evocative picture, but ultimately the narrative arc is extremely thin.

So recommended, if extremely harrowing.

Sensational, 29 Sep 2008
I started reading this book about a month ago, but put it down after fifty pages. I could tell that I needed to read this in long sittings, and not twenty minutes here and there. So then I read it again on holiday.

It is not an easy read - you have to work at it. McCarthy's prose is stripped back to the very bones, much punctuation is missing and there are no chapters. And the book is repetitive - the man and the boy get hungry, look for food and somewhere safe to stay, find them and do the same again.

But the overall effect is shattering. The world he conjures up in the aftermath of the apocalypse is stunningly realised, and the bleakness of life, the descent of humanity back into savagery and the man and the boy carrying the flame is almost too much at times. There is a lot of bleakness, a lot of misery and despair (and no, not many laughs). But always there is an indefatigability and a flicker of hope.

I've not been affected as much by a book for a long long time. The starkness of the writing and the bleakness of much of the book will be offputting for some, but this is worth the effort and I cannot recommend it too highly.



Nightmarish post-apocalyptic vision- demands to be read, 09 Sep 2008
Not for the faint-hearted this is an excellent book describing one man and his son's journey south though a post-apocalyptic American landscape. It is several years since "it" happened and the land is scorched, the sun is invisible though the blanket of ash and corpses lay burned into the tarmac. Nothing grows and the few survivors have become savage cannibals. The man and boy exist as the other's reason for continuing their hopeless struggle for survival and it is their humanity that redeems the book and their world. McCarthy's stripped down, deconstructed style has been criticised but I think it works perfectly here. I know it wasn't the authors intention but I think the book could have been longer with more details on the nature of the holocaust (we are never told) and how society and mankind had degenerated to the extent it had. Try to read this one sitting if you can to experience it full emotional impact but beware - you may not sleep too well...

A heart of Darkness, 08 Sep 2008
If you're a fan of post-apocalyptic fiction, then this should be high on your reading list. A man and boy's struggle to survive in a never-mentioned worldwide catastrophy is vividly and poignantly written.

If you're looking for a light read, this certainly isn't it - but this vision of hell on earth is certainly a memorable and engaging journey.

On a lighter note - after reading 'The Road' you'll never look at supermarket shopping trolleys in the same way ever again...





A great read, 05 Sep 2008
This was the first McCarthy book I'd read. I bought it based on a Wish List recommendation and I would just like to say thank you, thank you, thank you. Once I got used to the author's quirky style, it became a thoroughly enjoyable read. He uses suspense very well.

It was OK., 01 Sep 2008
I was really looking forward to this, having heard so much praise. I guess I missed something, but I was expecting a really deep, complex story, like so many reviews and articles had described, and didn't find anything of the sort. The artwork's flawless, but the story really did nothing for me, especially the Joker's back story, which seems to be the most raved about part. I felt no attachment to any characters, and having only recently read Watchmen for the first time, and being so blown away by that, I couldn't see how this was the same writer. I also found it shockingly short, which I don't expect from a graphic novel. As I said before though, awesome artwork. I still love that cover!

A Feast for the Eyes; A Drain On the Mind, 29 Aug 2008
Okay, let's keep this brief and informal lest I start taking myself far too seriously. After all, it is only a comic book to which I am referring regardless of how good or bad this particular one may be.
As an addition to the Batman Legend, 'The Killing Joke' is something of a let down, and not least due to the 1980's "think outside of the box" storyline. In my opinion it will warp your perception of the Caped Crusader and Smiles-McGee as it did mine with it's painting of the pair as something of an old married couple who may fight but deep down are the best of friends (and thankfully like an old married couple they are not sexually attracted to each other either). It has to be said though that The Joker's crimes depicted here are less master-criminal and more sick-bastard. Whilst inventive, they lack the subtlety and genius you'd expect from the character. It would be far too easy to confuse his antics with that of 'Lord Pumpkin' in his origin one-shot as the freaky carnival setting and deformed minions are not Joker-like in my mind. I'd also suggest that the "definitive origin story" for the Joker is an ideal that should have died long ago, way before the 80's ever hit, and it's inclusion here makes the Joker seem weak and unjustified (in some senses) in his madness. Basically, as in the short version, Alan Moore's story is cleverly gimmicky at best with scripting that is just plain awful. Sorry to all the fans of the piece out there, but it reads more like a romance comic with Batman being the hysterical woman moreover Dark Knight.
What you will take away from reading this (and despite what I just said, you must buy and read this!) is that Brian Bolland is highly revered for a reason. The artwork is simply phenomenal, and the newly revamped colouring is stunning. You may never see a depiction of classic Batman or Joker looking this good anywhere else again. With the added bonus of Bolland's 'Innocent Man' (which he also wrote) sitting quietly at the back, this package must adorn your bookcase. I would recommend this to anyone.

A short story, short on story, 17 Aug 2008
This graphic novel has been given a massive amount of praise and to be honest, I'm not sure why. Perhaps because it's Alan Moore, perhaps because it is Batman vs Joker, perhaps because it has a Joker origin. I'm not sure.

I read it in one sitting, it's a very short and at £10 is a bit expensive. As it's so short there's not really a story. None at all. Batman turns up at the begining and the end, the middle is mainly flashbacks to the Joker origin. Which is campy and somewhat uninteresting.

The end is somewhat ambiguous following on the unexplored idea of should Batman kill the joker and why.

Really, the problem is not bad writing, just that it's too short and doesn't really explore the relationship at all.

There are better graphic novels, there are better batman novels. I wouldn't recommend this.


Not as great as it's made out to be.... , 13 Aug 2008
I must admit to having had a copy of this book for quite a while now, and having read and re-read it a number of times, still cannot see why it is so lauded. Okay, the artwork IS wonderful (though Brian Bolland didn't like the colour much, apparently), and there are elements within t