New fiction titles I've read recently

The Witching Hour by Elizabeth Laird

Don't be put off by the title, this is not a fantasy story trying to cash in on the current vampire, were wolf, angel and fairy obsession. It is more of a historical fiction novel with the same feel as 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak in terms of its empathy with young people caught up in impossible, life threatening situations which demand personal self-sacrifice. The story revolves around Maggie Blair who, with her granny is accused of being a witch, essentially because the accusers desire their land and hope to expunge an enormous sum owed to Maggie - her father's wages - who was a drover and remained unpaid on his death. The story is filled with memorable, empathic characters who have with sketched with considerable psychological insight. This era - the witch burning times - is colourfully brought to life as is the hypocrisy of the church and the general bewilderment of the population. A fantastic read.

*****

Blood Promise (Vampire Academy) by Richelle Mead

I found the first half of this book quite dull. I'm afraid I don't find Rose very convincing, particularly in the fighting scenes which are glossed over. Her smart alec Americanisms (kind of like a female Bruce Willis - yuk!) also don't do it for me; however, Dimitri as a strigoi is a far more interesting and original character. I also found the mind contact with Lissa too convenient - that is... we've come to a flat spot in the story... I know, I'll just catch up on what Lissa's doing, that'll keep them entertained. Despite all that, the book has its moments - the scenes where Rose is high on vampire bites and low on 'witticism' are actually very well written and where I suspect the author's politically incorrect interest lies.

***
The Complete Horowitz Horror

This is a fun collection of horror short stories, particularly since Horowitz seems to be paying tribute to 'classic' horror formulas and subjects, reworking them into a modern context. The content is not especially scarey but the stories are well written and the characters are engaging.

****