The Dark Room

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Summary: Already read the recommended John Brady books
Review: (Hi guys--just checking this out since it's here now.) But, I wanted to tell you "thank you" for the John Brady recommendations. However, I've already read them. They are pefect for long wet/rainy/cloudy/windy weekends.

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Summary: Another riveting psychological murder mystery from Walters.
Review: As usual, Walters keeps the reader teetering from one theory to another throughout the tale. And also as usual, she draws complex and interesting characters. However, the plot and subject matter are more mundane than some of her other works, though Walters is never ordinary or dull. Jinx, the protagonist, brings the reader with her as she recovers slowly from her amnesia, trying to solve the mysteries of her missing memories, her apparent suicide attempts, and her friend and fiance's disappearance. Jinx, and the reader with her, is not at all sure who to love, like, trust, fear, or hate - including Jinx herself.

This is an excellent book, though not Walters' best. Fascinating foreshadowings fail to develop in a satisfying way, and the final ending is a little lackluster. But, all in all, still a great read.

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Summary: Minette is a Master
Review: I have read all of Minette Walter's books and I am constantly surprised. With each book her writing gets stronger and the plots get even more interesting.

She truly is a master of suspense. I find that I can't put her books down. Walters was able to take the amnesia plot and weave it in a way that makes it seem as if it were a new plot twist.

While Minette does not use repeating characters in her novels she never seems to have a problem getting her reader immediately feeling involved with the characters or the story. I highly recommend reading all of her books.

Rating:
Summary: A Suspenseful Read
Review: I have read several books by Minette Walters and rate this as one of her best. The main character, Jinx Kingsley, has amnesia after a car accident and we are left wondering (as Jinx is)about her involvement in some pretty gruesome murders. A great concept, well handled by the author to create a suspenseful read.

The characters are interesting and the pace is good. The only reason I have not given it a five star rating is that I felt that the ending was a bit too happy and optimistic - out of character for some of the personalities in the story.

If you have read and enjoyed any of Minette Walters' books before, then you will not be disappointed with The Echo. If you have not read one of her books, this is a good first read. If you like The Echo, then try The Ice House and the Sculptress as well.

Rating:
Summary: You won't be able to put it down!
Review: When I was in Britain last summer and desperate for a good read, I asked the clerk what she recommended for someone who had just finished a Patricia Cornwell and enjoyed it. She suggested Minette Walters (The Ice House) and after reading it, I immediately ordered everything else Walters had written. These books have also made the rounds of my school, and we're all waiting with bated breath for the next one. If you love Hitchcock-type suspense thrillers, this is the book for you. Her characters are well-defined and believable, her plotting intricate. Better yet, as someone now unspeakably bored with the whining and tiresome Kay Scarpetta, each of Walters' novels is different from the others--and each is equally ingenious. A true "Queen of Crime," she far surpasses Ruth Rendell. I'd also highly recommend the Scold's Bridle--and the end of "The Sculptress" will leave you gasping in surprise.