I bought The Cloisters because of the Tarot theme*, and also the enthusiastic reviews. But I can’t nominate it as Read of the Month. Why?
I’m still not sure why I hesitate over my verdict. Did I finish the book? Yes. Did the plot move along? Yes. Did it delve into the Tarot? Sort of, from the historical perspective. And to be fair, there’s a detailed guide to the cards, at the end of the book. Do the cards really forecast the future? Or does fate or The Fates, pre-determine our lives. Again, ummm … in the case of the novel, more the dramatis personae rather than The Fates.
Did I relate to the Characters? Ummm … perhaps this is the sticky patch. We’re in the obsessive world of museum collectors, plus the tight little world of professional academics, ambitious, unscrupulous and equally obsessive. Enigmatic, yes. Dangerous, yes. Amoral? Totally. Likeable? No.
The book ending provided two dramatic revelations, hitherto hidden, which explained the motivations behind two of the main characters. Suddenly the story gained perspective and more credibility.
Did I enjoy the book? Again … ummm , not as much as I had hoped.
*I’ve been involved with the Tarot for over 30 years.
The Undomestic Goddess – Sophie Kinsella. This has been a difficult year, and winter is proving to be super-wet and horribly cold; and the disaster-laden news bulletins – Ukraine war – submersible catastrophe – South African politics – don’t help. So light relief is called for and Sophie Kinsella has it down to a tee. A high flying London lawyer bombs out of her career and flees to the country, finding employment as a housekeeper. Apart from the fact that she has zero housekeeping skills and can’t cook, no problem. And there‘s a hunky gardener. Chaos, comedy and romance ensue. A wonderful feel-good read.
FICTION
The Cloisters – Katy Hays. A contemporary mystery novel, set in NYC and the world of museums and academia. A newly discovered Renaissance Tarot deck casts a dark influence.
Mr Monk on the Couch – Lee Goldberg. A spin-off from the TV show, featuring the brilliant, deductive genius, germophobe Adrian Monk. Hugely entertaining crime story. Recommended.
A Cast of Falcons – Sarah Yarwood-Lovett. A Dr Nell Ward Mystery. This is Book 2 in the series and the focus is less on matters ecological and more on whodunnit, and family relationships. Although well written, I didn’t enjoy it as much as Book One.
The Undomestic Goddess – Sophie Kinsella. Rom-com at its best. As a light, feel-good read, this wins the prize.
THE BOOKSMITH 