Book Chat's July Reading

The Boy They Tried to Hide by Shane Dunphy

This is the true story of a sexual predator and the child he had hidden in a forest in Ireland, brought to Dunphy’s attention by a concerned mother. There is something of a vendetta involved, as the author gave evidence that brought the criminal to justice previously. Dunphy is a journalist as well as a child protection worker, also the author of Wednesday’s Child. His new book is compulsive reading.

The Chinese Proverb by Tina Clough

Clough is a local author who sets her mystery novels in New Zealand. Her latest book follows the story of ex-army Hunter Grant, who saves the life of a young Chinese woman he finds in the bush. But that is just the beginning, as Dao is still in danger and then by association, so is Hunter. A well-written and page-turning novel that will please mystery fans.

The Chalk Pit by Elly Griffiths

Archaeologist and police adviser, Ruth Galloway, is called to investigate some remains found in tunnels, part of a complex of underground chambers associated with disused chalk mines. At the same time, DI Nelson is dealing with the disappearance of a homeless woman. Is there any connection? The Chalk Pit is another top read in this engaging crime series set in Norfolk.

The Swedish Girl by Alex Gray

This police procedural focuses on the murder of a Swedish student in Glasgow, whose body is found by her flatmate Kirsty, while another flatmate is accused of the crime. Kirsty is eager to prove his innocence while DS Lorimer works with criminal profiler Solly Brightman to discover the truth. A well written mystery with a really good surprise ending.

The Life of a Scilly Sergeant by Colin Taylor

A memoir that charts the day to day trials and tribulations of a small-island police officer. With twenty years on these islands off the coast of Cornwall and a popular Facebook page, there are plenty of humorous anecdotes to choose from. From collaring goldfish abductors to anchor thieves to rescuing birdlife from cats, Taylor captures a quaintly idyllic life that harks back to another age. Probably a nice way to recover from reading too much crime fiction.

Conclave by Robert Harris

If you’ve wondered about the machinations around the election of a new pope, Robert Harris’s novel is an excellent read with plenty of insights. Cardinal Lomeli is tasked with managing the process of the elections. Well researched, somehow this story of a political process turns into an unputdownable piece of fiction with a twist.

Posted by Flaxmere Library Bookchat