Ann Patchett's works have long had the attention of the Orange Prize juries. The Magician's Assistant was shortlisted for the 1998 Orange Prize, and Bel Canto won in 2002; it wasn't surprising to see State of Wonder make the jury's shortlist in 2012. The most striking element of the novel is its
If only the word 'waltz' appeared like a stain on the sheets -- this would be the perfect cover image. For now, Gina Moynihan stands back and looks at the bed that she and Seán Vallely shared, and it's a messy sight. Messy, but still fresh: you can see the indents
At first glance, Mr. Morel might seem a perfect mate for a bookish woman. “Now I’m cleaned up for thee: tha’s no ‘casions ter stir a peg all day, but sit and read thy books.” But, to begin with, he's quite a drinker, though perhaps working in the mines all day
Alyson Books, 2009 It begins with "This book is not a canon!!! And that's fine with me. I suspect it's fine with most of you, too. There is nothing "representative" or "survey-like" about this volume. The only rule that Richard Canning had in approaching the project was that each author
No need to wonder whether you fit in this novel: Harriet Baxter is speaking directly to you, Reader. Even before the novel has properly begun, she is saying "Reader, if you wonder -- as I suspect you may..." Even though you weren't wondering yet. And, on the next page, she
