Hooked – Asako Yuzuki
Written before Butter, but translated to English only recently, after Butter became a sensation. Hooked explores similar themes of what it means to be a woman in Japanese society, attitudes to food and weight, ambition vs fulfilment and social media ‘fame’. The core of the book is two 30-something women who struggle with female friendships. How their lives intertwined, and their reactions to events were heartfelt and unexpected. Thoroughly enjoyable, and biting on Japanese gender norms.
Kennedy’s Brain – Henning Mankell
Having completed all the Wallander books, I’m working through Mankell’s many other works. This one is both a well plotted thriller, and a sharp critique on how the world responded to AIDS in Africa. Diplomats and pharmaceutical companies come in for particular scrutiny in a typically brooding Mankell novel. Mankell knew of what he wrote, having spent many years living and working in Africa. His passion and fury shine like a bright light through the pages.
Death in the Arctic – Tom Hindell
A fun little whodunnit set on a modern-day luxury airship travelling over the North Pole. Great location, some engaging ideas and interesting characters. However, some characters felt a bit under-developed, and despite a creative method of murder, the outcome became predictable from quite early on.
Plum Lovin’ – Janet Evanovich
Picked this up from a holiday villa’s bookshelf and it was a total hoot. Laughed out loud repeatedly at the saucy, cheeky story of bounty hunter Stephanie Plum having to act as a matchmaker to close a bounty. Set in and around New Jersey with a great cast of characters. Light, sexy and engaging. Like comfort sitcom TV, but in a book.
The Burnout – Sophie Kinsella
A lovely, heart-warming and genuine book about Sasha who has burnt out working in a tech startup. She returns (off-season) to the seaside resort of her childhood to recuperate and rebuild her life. Art, surfing, and romance ensue. A lovely gentle, romantic and witty novel.
Jason Kitcat 