Reader Roundup: January 2025

January remained cold, yet snow free and blue skies which that helps me get through the winter wobblies. Some people might feel cozy, safe, and warm as they sit by the window overseeing that whitened landscape. Not I. It’s claustrophobic to me. Like being trapped in a snow globe.

This winter has been unusual with its lack of snowy days. And I’m appreciative. Seeing nature’s colors unfettered by snowfall, enhanced by clear blue skies, even though it might be in the single or low double digits, is a tonic compared to the dreariness of accumulated snow.

I’m more inclined to read in my recliner by the window when it’s sunny, snow free, although it’s freezing out since the sun reminds me winter is waning. A snow-laden view prompts me to curl up under the blankets and hibernate until the crocus debut.

Well, so much for that rant.

Moving on to book highlights for January, those five star reads:

Checkmate to Murder (#25) by E.C.R. Lorac

E.C.R Lorac’s Inspector Macdonald of Scotland Yard is both competent and likable in his approach to solving a crime. He isn’t quirky or pompous and projects an “everyman” persona as he goes about his investigation. This particular murder story involves an assortment of characters and the plot moves along at a slow and steady pace, so much so that it almost appears that the investigating becomes filler. This is the underlying method of the author: cast a wide net and then slowly let all the dross screen away until the solution is obvious and ends up being so clever and in front of the reader throughout the story.

Looking forward to searching out the other Inspector Macdonald stories.

The Fortnight in September by R.C. Sherriff

Written in simple yet elegant prose readers follow the Stevens, a British family, during their annual two week seaside holiday. The story is deceptive in that it lulls one in thinking nothing exciting is happening as each member goes the quotidian aspects of a vacation; however, each person is experiencing moments of inner speculation which defines who they are. They are living life, which is exciting overall as realizations are made that don’t seem profound but actually are.

The father comes to accept his lot in life will not include a promotion and decides to embrace what he has instead of become bitter at what he never will obtain.

The mother willingly goes along with the charade that she enjoys this annual excursion since she loves seeing her family’s happiness.

The daughter, on the cusp of love and independence, takes a small step in moving out of her home to create her own life.

The son, recently graduated from school and now at his first job, works out his resentment at having to be middle class, resolving to be better, not bitter.

The youngest, still in the throes of childhood, provides the joy of discovery of experience and the security of family.

Written in 1931, a relatively calm time, the story is a lovely, satisfying balm to the complicated times of today.

Only two books made the five star list; on the other hand they were excellent reads. In fact the Sherriff novel had written across the cover “highly recommend.” And I agree.