THE GIRL IN GREEN - DEREK B. MILLER

I'd read Derek B.'s stuff before and enjoyed it. I enjoyed this one for several reasons. Firstly, it's just a good story which revolves only partly around the Girl in Green. Secondly, once you've read it and failed to understand the factions and tribalism that created and maintained the Iraq wars, you'll understand that real, long-lasting peace in that region is almost impossible. Worth a read for that information alone.  

SOUL AT THE WHITE HEAT - JOYCE CAROL OATES

I kinew who she was of course, who doesn't, but I'd never read any of her stuff until I came across this volume. A few chapters about writing and then many chapters about books and writers. 

It was enlightening to read about some famous authors I always liked, H.P. Lovecraft for example. Not just about his writing but a summary of his work and life in a few pages that resonated. She referenced a few stories I haven't read but also name-checked some I've been reading for years, like August Derleth and Arthur Machen. 

Cue a story by Larry McMurtry, The Last Kind Words Saloon. I've never been inclined to read McMurtry although I know several who think he's the greatest living writer. Oates made me want to read this book because, if nothing else, I liked the title. Joan Didion beckons. Margaret Attwood appears. The whole book is great reading.

The final chapter, about her visit to San Quentin, is fantastic, a genuinely moving account of her visit. This line attracted my attention - 

We were aware of high stone walls strung with razor wire like a deranged sort of tinsel.

TWO NIGHTS - KATHY REICHS

Thank God. I was sick to death of Temperance Brennan and her foibles and constant crises. Two Nights is a new direction and a worthwhile direction. Sunday Night and August (Gus) Night - twins with attitude and smarts. This story revolves a plot by a group determined to exact revenge on Islam extremists by an act of violence. Well written and credible, we need more writing about these twins. Read it, you won't be sorry.