Poetry of Reading

Month of July : Best of Quotes

by Natasa Djordjevic - 4:47 AM

A Murderous Relation Deanna Raybourn

by Natasa Djordjevic - 10:02 AM

“A woman who knows her mind is a surprise to a certain type of man. They do not know how to react to it, so they generally obey,”

Veronica Speedwell, a lepidopterist with a keen eye for detail, also steps into the role of an occasional lady detective, making her a captivating and multifaceted protagonist. Set against a backdrop of a rapidly changing world marked by significant political upheavals, economic transformations, and social progress, Veronica exemplifies the modern woman embracing independence and adventure in an era that is still defining its notions of gender roles and societal expectations. While the series, like many historical fiction works, incorporates some anachronisms and presents a few unlikely scenarios, it does so with a clever flair, engaging the reader in an imaginative exploration of “what if” that adds to the enjoyment of the narrative. Raybourn’s writing is particularly engaging, immersing the reader in a richly detailed environment and presenting a diverse cast of distinct characters. Her skillful use of various literary contrivances not only enhances character depth but also drives the plot forward. The mysteries themselves may be somewhat conventional and can sometimes border on gimmicky, but Raybourn manages to infuse enough suspense and unexpected twists to keep readers captivated. As someone who typically prefers third-person narratives, I find that Raybourn successfully navigates the first-person perspective. She strikes a harmonious balance between exposition, introspection, and Veronica’s lively personality, resulting in a narrative style that feels both authentic and engaging. One of the standout elements of the series is the dynamic partnership between Veronica and Stoker. Not only are they portrayed as equals in their pursuits, but both characters are also intricately developed, making their interactions feel genuine and relatable. Stoker’s playful and insatiable sweet tooth adds depth to his character, while Veronica’s practicality, reminiscent of Mary Poppins, showcases her resourcefulness and wit. Their chemistry is electric, characterized by sharp, clever repartee that often veers into playful flirtation. This delightful interplay is further enriched by the strong sense of mutual loyalty and devotion that evolves throughout the series, making their partnership the heart and soul of the narrative. Together, they tackle challenges and unravel mysteries, all while navigating their individual complexities and growing bond, which adds an emotional layer that resonates with readers.

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Love to Hate You Anna Premoli

by Natasa Djordjevic - 9:55 AM

Jennifer can hardly tolerate her colleague Ian. They both work at the same prestigious bank, yet their extremely volatile relationship has led to a ban on them collaborating on projects. The tension between them is palpable, filled with an animosity that has reached the level of professional hostility. Jennifer is an independent woman who has carved out a successful career as a tax lawyer. Her professional life is meticulously managed, exactly how she envisions it. However, her personal life tells a different story—one fraught with complications. Ian, with his aristocratic heritage and privileged upbringing, represents everything Jennifer's family abhors. They have instilled in her a deep-seated disdain for the wealthy elite, making her interactions with Ian even more challenging. Despite Ian's ability to attract and date virtually any woman he desires, one woman continuously stands her ground against his advances—Jennifer. Eventually, he manages to persuade her to step out with him, but it soon becomes clear that it’s merely a façade; she is pretending to be his girlfriend in exchange for something crucial she needs. Despite the transactional nature of their arrangement, Ian has a way of making it seem almost genuine, blurring the lines between their pretense and reality. Their interactions are like a whirlwind, as they bicker and clash like cats and dogs. The wit and humor in their dialogue are sharp and often leave the reader in stitches. Jennifer’s fiery remarks are particularly noteworthy; she possesses an undeniable ability to deliver just the right retort at the perfect moment, showcasing her strength and resilience. Ian, despite being wealthy and surrounded by beautiful women, is persistently annoying to Jennifer, yet his determination to break through her defenses is both amusing and intriguing. I often found myself chuckling at their witty banter and the underlying chemistry that simmers beneath their animosity. Anna Premoli, the author, has a remarkable sense of humor that truly shines through. As someone who enjoys books featuring strong female protagonists, I was completely engrossed in Jennifer's character. She is unlike anyone else—intelligent, eloquent, and undeniably a force to be reckoned with. Yet, her journey is not without its struggles; she battles with her sense of style and wrestles with her desire for control. Her alternative upbringing, shaped by parents who disdain nobility, only complicates her relationship with Ian further. While I occasionally felt sympathy for Ian, his confidence and courage make him a good match for Jennifer, providing a balance that is both tense and engaging. I eagerly anticipated the resolution of their tumultuous storyline. Anna Premoli’s writing style flows beautifully, drawing readers in with its rich detail and cadence. The vocabulary she selects fits the narrative perfectly, enhancing the vividness of the story and bringing her characters to life. "Love to Hate You" is not just entertaining; it offers a refreshing perspective on love and rivalry. I admire the originality of her dialogues, as she makes bold narrative choices that resonate well within the context of the plot. In a story like this, the precision of language is paramount, and Anna Premoli excels in that regard. Her eloquent prose and impeccable sense of timing contribute to a narrative that is both engaging and laugh-out-loud funny, making it a delightful read from start to finish.

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Daughters of Sparta Claire Heywood

by Natasa Djordjevic - 9:50 AM

Sometimes we must be led by duty, and sometimes by what is right....The trick is to know when these things are the same, and when they are not.

I found this novel to be absolutely captivating. As someone who often approaches works by classicists with caution, I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional quality of Heywood’s writing. Her portrayal of the characters Helen and Clytemnestra is masterfully nuanced, adding depth and complexity to their narratives.

I firmly believe that retelling the stories of these iconic women in a way that depicts them as dominant, powerful, and feisty undermines their true historical context. Some contemporary feminist writers have adopted this approach, but I feel that it misrepresents the reality of most women's experiences in ancient times. To portray them as assertive and unyielding would simply be an unrealistic fantasy. Instead, I appreciate that Heywood chooses to highlight the profound powerlessness and vulnerability these women faced, creating a narrative that is not only more powerful but also realistic and ultimately credible. Heywood skillfully examines how societal norms and expectations shape the lives of Helen and Clytemnestra, effectively illustrating the constraints they navigated. For instance, I was particularly struck by her exploration of Helen’s deep-seated fear of childbirth, which serves as a compelling reason for Helen to distance herself emotionally from Menelaus. It adds layers to her character and provides insight into the complexities of her relationships. Additionally, I found Heywood's depiction of Clytemnestra to be heart-wrenching. She vividly conveys Clytemnestra’s helplessness and despair as she grapples with her inability to prevent the tragic sacrifice of Iphigenia. This scene was incredibly moving, and I openly admit that it brought me to tears, demonstrating the emotional weight of the narrative.
Moreover, I was pleased that Heywood opted not to use the first-person point of view. Instead, her excellent focalization of each character allows readers to delve into their inner thoughts and feelings, enriching the reading experience and fostering a deeper understanding of their struggles. Overall, this novel offers a profound exploration of the lives of these women, masterfully blending historical context with emotional depth.

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Month of June: Best of Quotes

by Natasa Djordjevic - 5:04 AM

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Defending Jacob William Landay

by Natasa Djordjevic - 10:46 AM

“An emotion is a thought, yes, an idea, but it is also a sensation, an ache in your body. Desire, love, hate, fear, repulsion - you feel these things in your muscle and bones, not just in your mind.”

William Landay's bestselling novel, "Defending Jacob," intricately weaves the threads of a legal thriller with an emotional exploration of familial turmoil as the Barber family faces an unthinkable crisis, feeling increasingly isolated from friends and neighbors who once stood by them.

At the heart of the story is Andy Barber, a dedicated and successful first assistant district attorney in a prestigious Boston suburb known for its affluence and tight-knit community. He balances a fulfilling career with a deep devotion to his wife, Laurie, and their teenage son, Jacob. As a senior staff attorney who reports directly to the elected District Attorney, Andy is accustomed to handling high-profile cases that allow him to showcase his legal acumen and commitment to justice.

The tranquility of Andy's life is violently disrupted when a local high school student, Ben Rifkin, is discovered dead in a picturesque park near the school. In a shocking turn of events, Andy's entire world is turned upside down when Jacob, his son, is arrested as the prime suspect in the murder. This case is not just a professional challenge for Andy; it becomes a crisis that threatens to unravel everything he holds dear.

Through this gripping narrative, Landay delves into profound questions that resonate with parents everywhere: Can we ever truly know our children? What lengths will a parent go to in order to protect their child? How do family dynamics shift when one's beliefs about a child's fundamental goodness are called into question? The author also explores the various influences that shape a child's behavior, including the long-standing debate between nature versus nurture and the potential impact of genetic predispositions.

Jacob is portrayed as a typical, yet complex, fourteen-year-old teenager. He embodies the struggles of adolescence, often behaving as a puzzle that his parents find difficult to piece together. Jacob grapples with social challenges at school, where he is deemed unpopular and, at times, odd by his peers. Despite being active on social media, he maintains a guarded demeanor with his parents, sharing little about his inner life and ongoing experiences.

Amid the turmoil, Andy carries a heavy secret that complicates his family’s situation even further: his father and grandfather both had histories of committing murder. This troubling family legacy weighs heavily on Andy’s conscience, especially as he fears the prosecution might exploit this information to argue for the existence of a "murder gene" in Jacob’s DNA. After Jacob's arrest, Andy confides this dark secret to Laurie, adding another layer of tension to their already strained family dynamics.

As the investigation develops and evidence begins to stack up against Jacob, the District Attorney makes the decision to remove Andy from the case, resulting in his suspension with pay. Investigators learn from Jacob's classmates that he had previously been bullied by Ben and that he possessed a knife, suggesting a potential motive for the murder. Compounding the stakes, Jacob’s fingerprint is discovered on the deceased boy’s jacket, casting an even darker shadow over the case.

The interactions between the Barbers and their legal counsel, as well as a psychologist hired for Jacob's defense, become some of the most engaging and revealing moments in the book. During these poignant meetings, the family is forced to confront uncomfortable truths about Jacob, ultimately challenging their perceptions of him. Landay, drawing from his experience as a former prosecutor, offers readers an insightful and realistic portrayal of both the prosecution and defense strategies, while providing a detailed look at courtroom procedures and the broader legal landscape.

As the trial draws to a gripping conclusion, readers encounter a surprising plot twist that shakes the very foundation of the story. More than just a shock, the resolution offers a brilliant and unsettling ending that leaves readers contemplating the complexities of trust, guilt, and the often ambiguous nature of justice, ensuring they are left both satisfied and deeply reflective long after finishing the novel.