Sample Saturday is when I wade through the eleventy billion samples I have downloaded on my Kindle. I’m slowly chipping away and deciding whether it’s buy or bye.
The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry
Why I have it: Prize shortlists and that cover…
Summary: An Essex village in the 1890’s; two people fall for each other, but not in the usual way; a mythical serpent ‘returns’ to the town marshes.
I’m thinking: Yes, a ripping start.
All We Shall Know by Donal Ryan
Why I have it: No idea.
Summary: Melody Shee is 33, pregnant and alone. The father of her baby is 17 and a Traveller. Melody’s husband doesn’t take the news well.
I’m thinking: Yes, I love the writing style.
Sarah by J.T. LeRoy
Why I have it: Because of this article.
Summary: Sarah is a prostitute working the West Virginia truck stops. Her son, who’s desperate to win her attention, recreates himself as ‘Cherry Vanilla’ and begins a journey around America.
I’m thinking: No.
I remember all the JT Leroy furore – it never really appealed to me.
The Donal Ryan looks great, I’ll look out for it.
I think I’m the only blogger in the world who didn’t like The Essex Serpent, so don’t listen to me 😉 Lovely cover though!
I loved The Spinning Heart by Donal Ryan so this would be a yes for me too
I borrowed The Essex Serpent from the library – but took it back without finishing it as I didn’t take t it, so I’ll look out for your review if you do read it.
Loved both The Essex Serpent and All We Shall Know.
The Essex Serpent is high on my list of best books read so far this year. I loved all of the characters, the historical premise for the book, and the way Perry uses the landscape as a character. I hope that you read it.
Yep, I am an Essex Serpent fan, but it didn’t rate with my book group. Sadly.