Author: Emma Donoghue

Some time ago Pat and I watched a travel documentary on Ireland. One of the places that was talked about was Skellig Michael. This is a fictional account of the very first monks to settle on the island.

Three priests set out by boat from a well established monastery in search of a spot where they would be way from all of the worldly temptations. The island they came ashore on was remote and rugged – there was only one tree and the island was inhabited only by birds. The zealousness of the leader meant it was a very hard life for his two followers.

This is quite unlike any of the other books I’ve read by Donoghue. I didn’t know of the connection between the story and Skellig Michael until I read the author’s notes.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *

Author: Diana Gabaldon

The latest book in the Outlander series did not disappoint.I’m not sure where the title came from although there were a few places in the book where I though Fraser’s Ridge might have to be abandoned.

The American Revolution is still going on and Jamie (and Claire) are called to fight some of the battles. Ian and Rachel have finally found a name for their son; Roger, Bree and family have returned to the Ridge and have a new baby. Fergus and family have had to move twice due to threats related to their printing business. William is still having trouble coming to terms with his paternity; Lord John and his brother Hal are concerned as Hal’s son Ben is fighting for the Americans.

I wonder how long I’ll have to wait for the next book.

Goodreads Rating: * * * * *

Author: Isabel Allende

Another great find off the shelf at the Lodge. This was one that was also on my to-read list. I wasn’t sure I was ready for another Allende book but from the first chapter I was hooked.

Tété has been a slave since she was nine years old. Her story is told with the backdrop of the many uprising that took place in what is now known as Haiti. She was purchased by a wealthy plantation owner, Valmorain, and there lives were connected through the two children they had together and Valmorain’s dependence on her. Their travels take them to Cuba and then to the newly formed city of New Orleans in America. Hers is not a happy story, even after she is able to gain her independence.

Goodreads Rating: * * * * *

Author: Alice Sebold

I know I read a previous book by this author but apparently it was before this version of my website. My recollection of that book was that it was good and, maybe, just a little creepy.

There is no question that this one is creepy. In the very first chapter you learn that Helen has murdered her mother, Clair. The two did not have an easy relationship and it would seem that both of Helen’s parents had some sort of mental illness and by the end of the book you had to wonder if perhaps Helen had inherited some of those traits.

I wasn’t happy with the ending but in some ways it was a perfect way to close the story.

Goodreads Rating: * * * *