Themes and Variations by David Sedaris

 

“If you think I’m putting my bra back on for this bullshit, you are so sorely mistaken.”

David Sedaris is an uncommonly good writer. He captures the crazy minutiae of the everyday in a way that is hysterically funny and consistently compelling. I was introduced to him by a guy who I used to be friends with. So, even friendships that end leave a positive residue - in this case familiarity with a fantastic writer.

I had the pleasure of meeting David Sedaris at two book signings with said ex-friend. His quips at those meetings and the adorable message he wrote in my book affirmed my undying love for Mr Sedaris. If you ever get the chance to see him live, do it!!

This rather brief essay is the antidote for the misery on your television screen. Turn off the news and hook into this.

5 out of 5 - definitely worth putting your bra on for.

Dead Man Switch(Book #1 A Billie Walker Mystery) by Tara Moss

 

“It wasn't a fancy space. It didn't need to be. Clients didn't come to her for interior decorating tips.”

I was torn on this one initially. Getting into the novel took a little time because I was distracted by the length of prose dedicated to dresses and earrings. Another aspect that jarred was the overtly film noir stereotypes. I'm a big fan of Tara Moss and think she's an excellent human from what I've seen of her, so my expectations were very high.

The mystery of the novel certainly dragged me in once I got over my initial concerns. I love noir, I love a mystery, this should have totally won me over. Part of its charm was the Australian setting which I found endearing at times, and jarring at others. Whenever any character said or did something that seemed quintessentially noir, but not particularly local to Australia; I was taken out of the tale.

Ultimately, I enjoyed this trip back in time and while my praise seems less than effusive, that perhaps links closely to the expectations I had. Confusingly there are two versions of the title and I stupidly bought the paperback and the kindle, such was my enthusiasm for the premise. This broken reader who has avoided dating since breaking up with Voldermort wanted some romance for the protagonist. At least one of us should be having more excitement in that area.

Perhaps that was what was lacking and maybe that will be developed as the series progresses. Reading about another workaholic is not the escapism I need right now. Putting that aside, the novel certainly held my attention and the tale was interesting.

4 out of 5 Sydney, back in the day, also had some seedy characters

Challenge Accepted! by Celeste Barber

 "Have you noticed that most hot people you see in the street look confused?"

Celebrity books can be a little hit and miss, so I was somewhat sceptical about this one.Clearly I shouldn't have been concerned, Celeste is just as delightful as her instagram posts. Her enthusiastic, self-deprecatory voice shines through and draws you in from the get-go. 

The unexpected gem here is the author's life story, something lacking from the hilarious visuals online.From struggles with schooling to the vagaries of life as a would-be actress and the challenges of childbirth, the book meanders in a distinctly non-linear way and I think that adds to its charm. 

Barber comes across as unfiltered and honest, which merely adds to her tremendous appeal. Even when she name drops it is done in a way that you forgive, because its just like a close friend is explaining an unbelievable encounter to you over a sneaky glass of something fizzy.

5 out of 5 - Who wouldn't want to hang out with Celeste and her hot husband?

The Accountant: A novel by Barry Smith and some wine

 

“Hi, my name is Fiona Jones. I work for legal aid ($54,000).”

From the cover page’s attribution to wine, on to the hilarious blurb, lies a rather unusual, often hilarious crime novel penned by one of my workmates – the eponymous accountant, Barry Smith.

Barry is often a source of mirth and marvel in the office thanks to his penchant for puns and magic tricks, both of which inform his writing. The structure is unique with each character introducing themselves in a way that breaks out of the story and becomes almost theatrical. Even the victim has a voice. I enjoyed the way he characterised them by their earnings which really added to the accountancy flavour.

I had my suspicions about ‘whodunnit’ a good way into the novel and yet was always sceptical. The cast are a veritable rogues gallery, and with lots of money involved, things can often get messy.

Murder, schemes, swiss bank accounts, this one has the lot. If you feel like an enjoyable and giggle ridden mystery with a dash of book-keeping, then you too can discover Barry’s oeuvre on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Accountant-novel-Barry-Smith-some/dp/1521443629

 

4/5  - Dodgy accountants have even dodgier associates.