3/1/10 - Jeffrey Archer - A Prisoner of Birth

OK OK - I know he is a jumped up tory prick who went to prison for being a jumped up tory prick or something - but I have actually always rather liked his books. This one is about a poor illiterate East End man improperly imprisoned for killing his best friend - while the upper-class twat who really did it walks free. It is about his education within, and escape from prison followed by his revenge - along with his redemption. Not 'High Literature' obviously. A simple formula, Count of Monte Christo is even repeatedly mentioned in the book. But I did get sucked into it and want our hero Danny to win all his little battles - which of course he did. So engrossing, an easy and quick read - but not one that will dwell with me past the end of today I doubt.

1/1/10 - Steven Carroll - The Lost Life

I started it early December - took a while to read - even though it is a small book. Very gentle and slow - thoughtful. About yearning for the past, wasting a life or grasping every moment. Loss of innocence - at times quite a beautiful book. The lovers are called Catherine and Daniel. Girl of 16 meets Emily - girlfriend of T.S. (Tom) Eliot. Emily forever the virgin - lives vicariously through Catherine's experiences that summer. Last few pages jump forward 50 years. Nice to be told how it all ends up.

31/12/09 - Steig Larsson - Girl with a dragon Tattoo

I got this book for Christmas - from Father (Girlfriend) Christmas - and read non-stop. It was my book club book - but I'd ben wanting to read for some time. Loved it - gripping if a bit twisted at times. Translation a little frustrating and awkward. Can't wait to read the next 2.