How does one review a novel?
Well, I don’t, because for me novels are less objective than other kinds of books.
One of my favourite authors, for when I want to lose myself in a world, slightly raise my pulse, and generally enjoy reading for pure pleasure, is John Grisham. Starting with The Partner as a young teenager, I’ve avidly read (I think) pretty much he’s written.
I’ve not read much of his recent stuff – so when my brother lent me Camino Island, I grabbed it and devoured it in spare moments over a busy weekend. The plot draws together a number of threads that interest me – books, book publishing, rare book dealers, academics, and writing – and wraps it up in a bundle of crime, espionage and engaging characters.
If you like John Grisham in slightly-less-obsessed-with-the-American-legal-system mode, you’ll love this. If you like John Grisham, you’ll probably like this. If you don’t like John Grisham, but do like books, this might be a good one to start with. I found it cleverly self-deprecating, and clearly written for someone who really likes F. Scott Fitzgerald (no spoilers!) – I hope this might be a gateway into Grisham’s massive catalogue for my more literary friends.
Recommended, and a perfect summer read.
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