The Recently Read posts are not typical book reviews. As a writer, I do not believe I should be reviewing the hard work of other writers. These posts are simply books I have recently read and enjoyed and will share with you. They will not always be crime books as I am trying to widen my reading selection. I hope you enjoy some of these with me.
Someone Else’s Skin by Sarah Hilary
DI Marnie Rome knows this better than most. Five years ago, her family home was a shocking and bloody crimescene. Now, she’s tackling a case of domestic violence, and a different brand of victim.
Hope Proctor stabbed her husband in desperate self-defence. A crowd of witnesses saw it happen. But as the violence spirals, engulfing the residents of the women’s shelter, Marnie finds herself drawn into familiar territory. A place where the past casts long shadows and she must tread carefully to survive.
My Thoughts;
This book has not yet been released. It’s release date is 27th February 2014. I was lucky enough to get a proof copy in my Theakstons crime goody bag at Harrogate last weekend. (Yes, this should be the last you hear about that weekend!) It was the first book out of the pile of books I brought home and I’m so glad it was. I’m just sorry that I’ve finished it now and I have to wait so long for DI Marnie Rome book two.
Hilary’s style is enthralling. She captures you in the scene and holds you there effortlessly. Her words flow and her characters breath right there in front of you. The attention to detail is beautiful.ย I loved DI Marnie Rome and the entire team behind her. Commander Welland, though not a major character is wonderfully drawn. It’s so clear, you can picture him clearly and even feel the heat emanate from his office!
The opening scene is stunning. Set five years in the past it gives you the driver behind a lot of Rome’s emotions and actions and the repercussions continue to thrive through her life.
The here and now chapters are equally as gripping and Hilary keeps the pace moving. You can’t help but keep turning the pages. She throws in twists and shocks in such a believable manner that I couldn’t put this book down. I can’t say too much about the story without giving away plot spoilers, but what I can say, is that I really can’t wait for the next book Hilary produces.
readingwritingandriesling says
I’ll keep a look out for this one -it sounds great.
Rebecca Bradley says
It really is a good read, I hope you enjoy it if you do read it.
Margot Kinberg says
Rebecca – This does sound like a terrific read, and I always enjoy books that weave past and present together effectively.
Rebecca Bradley says
It’s wonderful Margot. I can’t recommend it enough!
Sarah Hilary says
Thank you the great review, Rebecca – my first one!
Rebecca Bradley says
You’re welcome Sarah. I loved it and I’m so pleased to have got it in my goody bag! ๐
Jacqui Murray says
I’ve been reading a lot of British mysteries lately–McDermid, George, Hannah. I’ve even developed an accent and a facility with some of their phrases (Bob’s my Uncle–odd one). This sounds like it fits.
Sarah Hilary says
Thanks, Jacqui. I’m intrigued by what other Brit-speak you’ve picked up..!
Jacqui Murray says
‘Innit’–love that one. ‘on offer’–so much cleaner than ‘for sale’. ‘Nip out’, ‘bang to rights’–and my favorite– ‘Bl****** f****** wankers’. You know the one!
Do you have any I should become familiar with?
Sarah Hilary says
Nice list – thought for a second I was reading spam but no, just some good old English vernacular. I’m fond of “Chuffed” which means pleased (“Chuffed to bits” is an expression I overuse). I think the non-Brit audience at Harrogate were baffled by a reference to someone cycling shorts being “budgie smugglers”…
Rebecca Bradley says
My little man thinks Budgie smugglers is hilarious! It gets him in laughter every time he hears it!
If you’re reading those Jacqui, you will love Sarah’s ๐
Alex J. Cavanaugh says
Bummer you’ll have such a long wait for the next one since this one isn’t even out yet.
Rebecca Bradley says
I know! I might even have to re-read it again!
diannegray says
How lucky of you to get this sneak preview. Well done ๐