Pam Webb

Reader Roundup: Hello New Year

Finishing strong in my 2023 Goodreads challenge with 171 books read—greatly surpassing my usual 101 books goal, which landed me in the Goodreads top 25% readers group. Couldn’t resist a little self back patting. On to the five 🌟 reads of January:

To Track a Traitor (Lane Winslow #10) by Iona Whishaw

The plot is especially complex as it involves a thirty year old murder, a missing husband, a blackmailer, and a rogue spy. Whishaw manages to balance all these complicated aspects while continuing to develop the interpersonal relationships of the characters. The series continues to become more engaging with each additional entry. While this title could be a standalone, the story is enriched by how Whishaw has developed each character in each book. For those who appreciate post WWII intrigues and strong women leads such as Maisie Dobbs.

Madame Secretary: A Memoir by Madeleine K. Albright

Watching Madeleine Albright’s cameo television series “Madame Secretary” prompted me check out her autobiography. She came across as sassy and knowledgeable in both her TV role and as the first woman secretary of state. Albright’s humor and hard hitting style provided illuminating glimpses into the world she shared with President Clinton. Dealing with dictators, forging relationships with new and old world leaders, and coping with personal situations was all part of her tenure. Candid, humorous, and engaging, though long and sometimes painful in reading due to the hardships so many countries face because of leadership decisions, this an insightful look at the behind the scenes of a governmental position that literally can influence the world we live in.

From a Far and Lovely Country (No. 1 Ladies’ Detective Agency #24) by Alexander McCall Smith

McCall Smith returns to what made this series both unique and appreciated. There are two main cases that must be solved, each requiring wisdom and tact. Both have surprising outcomes which highlight how McCall Smith can provide twists that are equally delightful and satisfying.

Patterns on the Wall by Elizabeth Yates

A surprisingly excellent read. Though slim it is full of storytelling delights ranging from old-fashioned values to historical details to memorable characters. Expected and unexpected plot twists provide reader interest to the very end as a young man overcomes hardships in post-colonial America.

With 20 books read by this posting, I’m off to good start towards reading 101 books by the end of December. A personal reading goal is to mix in a variety of genres such as autobiographies and more nonfiction, but I sure do like my fiction forays.

What reading goals have you set for yourself in 2024?