Review: The Body Farm by Patricia Cornwell

This is another in the Kay Scarpetta series and again I enjoyed the forensic style 'whodunnit' by Patricia Cornwell. I thought the title a little too much given how small a role the farm actually played in the plot. In fact I would have liked to pursue this further in the novel, however the reader was given just a glimpse into the scientific nature of the body farm.

This book can be read as a stand-alone, however there are references made to previous cases Scarpetta and Marino have worked in the past.

After reading the first 5 books in this series in the last 8 months, I'm growing a little weary of the predictability of the main characters and the similarity in the plot outline in each novel. I think I'll give the series a rest for now, besides there are plenty of other books out there waiting to be read.

My rating = **1/2

Carpe Librum!

Review: Satan's Fire by Paul Doherty

I've been trying for more than 6 months to buy a copy of this book, but I couldn't order it as it's out of print! I made the difficult decision to keep on reading the series, and skip this one until I could track down a copy - argh, but I hate when things aren't 'in order' so I've been desperate to get this book!! I finally found a second hand copy for sale on eBay, and snatched it up straight away and have just finished reading it.

I enjoyed it, but the relief at having read it and now restoring 'order' to the series was also, sadly, more important to me than it should have been (sigh).

Okay, all that aside, what's it about? It's another of the medieval mysteries featuring the King's Keeper of the Secret Seal, Sir Hugh Corbett. This time murders are being committed during a visit to York by members of the Order of the Temple. Corbett is asked by King Edward to investigate these murders at the hand of a mysterious fire that seems to erupt from hell.

Another enjoyable read, and the end of a book saga that has bothered me for some time.

My rating = ***

Carpe Librum!

Review: A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle

This is a non-fiction 'self help' book that has sold millions of copies around the world. It has also been featured on the Oprah show, no doubt increasing its popularity.

It was written by the author of The Power of Now Eckhart Tolle, and is essentially a book about 'awakening to your life's purpose'. The book shows you how to 'awaken' by recognising your ego. 

Many of the key themes were insightful, with quotes from many religions and wise men of different ages. 

I enjoyed these references and there are a few key ideas I took away with me, after reading this book.

My rating = ***1/2

Carpe Librum!