Books Read:
Pink Sugar by O. Douglas (1924) 4/5 stars
The Priorsford Trilogy, book 2
While this is the second book of the Priorsford trilogy, it is not a sequel to Penny Plain (my review here), but only takes place in the same general area of Scotland. It is a wonderful story -- part slice-of-life, part character study -- and is full of gentle humor, charm, emotion, and life. I enjoyed this well-written, absorbing book even more than Penny Plain, and was sad when it ended.
The Midnight Show by Sarah Pennington (2020) 3/5 stars
Bastian Dennel PI, book 1
This mystery is a retelling of "the Twelve Dancing Princesses" set in a fantasy world similar to a US city during the Jazz Age. The concept is unique, fun, and engaging, but (at under 200 pages), the book is too short to really develop the world, magic system, or characters. Despite that, I enjoyed it and would definitely read more of the series.
The Broken Halo
by Florence L. Barclay (1913) 4/5 stars
Barclay is the author of my favorite Edwardian romance (The Rosary), so I expected a typical-of-her romantic love story. Instead, it's the tale of a new doctor who lost his faith in God at the age of seven, and spent the next twenty years developing a hardened resistance to anything to do with Christianity and an overwhelming desire to succeed regardless of the cost. He becomes the physician to an older heart patient, whose faith is strong and alive -- and who prays determinedly for his soul. This is a moving and surprisingly riveting book, which shows the beauty of a Christ-like love.
Priorsford by O. Douglas (1932) 3/5 stars
The Priorsford Trilogy, book 3
Priorsford takes place about four years after the events of Pink Sugar, and ten after Penny Plain, bringing back and blending the stories of characters from both. It was a bit uneven to me, with some dull places that weren't quite outweighed by the good parts of the story. It's obvious that the author was quite concerned with the state of Britain at the time, as she inserted discussions of issues here and there, but in a way that didn't feel natural. Priorsford also finished in an unfinished way, for lack of a better term, seeming to be setting the scene for a fourth book that never came. I still enjoyed reading it, but it wasn't on par with the previous two of the series.
The White Monkey by John Galsworthy (1924) 4/5 stars
A Modern Comedy, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4
This is the first novel of the second trilogy following the Forsyte family, and takes place almost immediately after To Let. While not as excellent as the previous three*, it's still compelling, engrossing, and immersive. Galsworthy was a magnificent writer. (*see audiobook section for reviews)
Interlude: The Silent Wooing by John Galsworthy (1924) 3/5 stars
A Modern Comedy, book 1.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 4.5
This short story is not a good example of Galsworthy's talent, but does set the scene for the following novel.
Audiobooks Completed:
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| Galsworthy |
In Chancery by John Galsworthy (1920) 5/5 stars
The Forsyte Saga, book 2; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2
This continues the story of the Forsytes, Soames and Young Jolyon in particular, 12 years after the events of A Man of Property. The family is still focused on property, human and material alike, and their relationships reflect this. It is a beautifully written and masterful character study, an excellent picture of the death of the Victorian era, and a gripping, engrossing story.
Interlude: Awakening by John Galsworthy (1920) 5/5 stars
The Forsyte Saga, book 2.5; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 2.5
This short story takes place eight years after In Chancery and tells of the discovery of beauty by a young Forsyte. It's a moving story which illuminates one familiar character and sets the stage for the adulthood of a new one.
To Let by John Galsworthy (1921) 5/5 stars
The Forsyte Saga, book 3; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 3
This is stellar conclusion to the first trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles (i.e. The Forsyte Saga). It follows two of the youngest Forsyte generation, as the actions of their parents affect the outcome of their own lives. In addition, it's a character study of the early Jazz Age, which it's change or priorities, so contrary to the Victorian raised Forsytes. It's a brilliant finish, unsettling and moving, that leaves the reader wanting more.
A Certain Justice by P.D. James (1997) 5/5 stars
Adam Dalgliesh series, book 10
James is a master story teller, and the disconcerting ending of this character-driven mystery makes this one of her best. This was a reread and I still found it incredibly moving and enthralling.
