I have read and enjoyed Kate Atkinson’s Jackson Brodie mysteries. Life After Life and A God in Ruins have been in my TBR pile for quite awhile. When, pre-publication, I read about Transcription, I knew that I wanted to read this novel. Some of my favorite fictional subjects were in fact subjects in the novel including WWII, Britain and spies. Despite all of this, I did not enjoy Transcription as much as I had hoped that I would. Yes, the pages turned and there were some good plot twists but, somehow, I expected more given that Atkinson is so accomplished a writer. My favorite parts of the book were the parenthetical asides.
Have you read Transcription? If yes, I would love to hear your thoughts.
Another view:
This is from the Poisoned Pen Bookstore’s Newsletter: as you will see, I think that they liked the novel more than I did.
“Kate Atkinson brings the past of mid-20th century Britain so thoroughly to life that she almost seems to be reporting rather than inventing. Her details are so rich and her hand so certain that, as readers, we are there-we are walking those streets, sitting in those smoky rooms. And, most of all, we are completely caught up in the emotional power of the tensions and fears of that past. With Juliet Armstrong, Atkinson has given us a remarkable addition to the canon of British spies.”
Kudos to all who were involved with this book. The illustrations ate very appealing as is the design and structure of the book. Ward is very interested in helping adults and children to connect with nature. She previously wrote a book called I Like Dirt. She wants people of all ages to get outside, observe and enjoy the world around them.
This is a wonderful introduction to the world of ponies for toddlers. The photographs in the book show adorable pet like ponies. There are simple facts about habitats, habits and riding. There are even some mini quizzes. Share this with a very young rider in your life. You will both have fun!
Imagine that your family sends you (alone) to the U.S. because of financial hardship in Ireland and you will need to support your relatives back home. Imagine that you are able to take on someone else’s identity to become the servant of Andrew Carnegie’s mother. Will you be found out? Will your position be secure? These are among the premises of this richly detailed historical novel. Relationships between upstairs and downstairs, specifically between Clara and Andrew Carnegie are a major part of this novel. Read it too to learn more about the business world and women’s roles in the post Civil War U.S. Overall, an enjoyable read.
Do you recall watching Prime Suspect with Helen Mirren? Did you ever wonder how Tennison started her career? Did you see the young Tennison TV series? If you answer yes to any of these questions, or would just like some good reads, take a look at this series. Book 3, Good Friday, is currently an e-book bargain at $1.99. I have the first three books in my TBR pile.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 
Thanks NetGalley and the publisher.