First Person Singular by Haruki Murakami

In First Person Singular, Haruki Murakami once again invites readers into his signature blend of magical realism and introspective musings, offering a collection of eight short stories that delve into the murky intersections between memory, fantasy, and identity. Each tale is narrated in the first person, often resembling a confessional or a fleeting recollection, blurring the line between fiction and personal experience. Themes of loneliness, nostalgia, and the haunting passage of time permeate the narratives, evoking a sense of existential reflection that Murakami fans will instantly recognize.

One of the standout qualities of the collection is Murakami's ability to transform the mundane into something profound or surreal. Whether it’s an encounter with a talking monkey or a nostalgic reflection on a lost jazz record, these stories often begin in familiar settings before veering into the unexpected. The author's characteristic whimsy, coupled with his philosophical undertones, creates an almost dreamlike atmosphere where reality and imagination collide.

However, the collection’s charm may also be its limitation. For readers unfamiliar with Murakami's style, the fragmented, often meandering narratives may feel like they lack resolution. Longtime readers, though, will appreciate the meditative pace and the subtle ways in which these stories explore deeper emotional truths. In First Person Singular, Murakami isn’t trying to answer life’s big questions but rather to ponder them, inviting readers to do the same.

The Two Minute Rule by Robert Crais

Robert Crais' The Two Minute Rule delivers a masterful blend of crime, mystery, and personal redemption in a tightly woven narrative that keeps readers on edge from start to finish. The novel follows Max Holman, a former bank robber freshly released from prison after serving a ten-year sentence. Eager to reconnect with his estranged son, a Los Angeles police officer, Max's hopes are shattered when he learns that his son has been murdered in a suspicious shooting, along with three other officers. Consumed by grief and a thirst for justice, Max embarks on a relentless quest to find the killer, with the unlikely help of Katherine Pollard, a former FBI agent with her own troubled past.

Crais excels at creating multi-dimensional characters who are both flawed and relatable. Max Holman is a man burdened by his past mistakes, driven by a desperate need to make things right, not just for his son, but for himself. His journey through Los Angeles' gritty criminal underworld is as much about seeking redemption as it is about uncovering the truth behind his son's death. The partnership between Max and Pollard adds depth to the narrative, as their contrasting backgrounds and shared sense of loss create a complex, engaging dynamic.

The novel's pacing is impeccably controlled, with Crais skillfully balancing moments of intense action with quieter, more introspective scenes that explore Max's internal struggles. The procedural aspects of the investigation are meticulously detailed, adding a layer of realism that enhances the story's immersion. As the plot twists and turns, Crais keeps the reader guessing, building suspense until the final, satisfying reveal.

Beyond its surface as a crime thriller, The Two Minute Rule delves into themes of loyalty, forgiveness, and the high cost of vengeance. Crais doesn't shy away from the moral ambiguities faced by his characters, making the novel not only a gripping read but also a thought-provoking one. For fans of the genre, and for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted story of personal redemption set against the backdrop of a gritty, noir-ish Los Angeles, The Two Minute Rule is a must-read.

The Elegant Lie by Sam Eastland

In "The Elegant Lie," Sam Eastland weaves a tale of post-war intrigue and deception set in the ruins of Cologne. Nathan Carter, a disgraced American soldier, finds himself entangled in the web of Hanno Dasch, the city's black market kingpin. As Carter navigates the treacherous underworld, he uncovers a conspiracy that reaches far beyond the shattered streets of Germany.

Eastland's prose is sharp and evocative, painting a vivid picture of a city struggling to rebuild amidst the rubble of war. The characters are complex and morally ambiguous, their motivations often shrouded in shadow. The plot is intricate and suspenseful, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end.

Eastland expertly balances suspense and historical detail, immersing the reader in the atmosphere of post-war Cologne. The city's scars are palpable, and the desperation of its inhabitants is keenly felt. The novel explores themes of survival, betrayal, and the enduring cost of war, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.

"The Elegant Lie" is a must-read for fans of historical thrillers and anyone seeking a gripping tale of intrigue set against a backdrop of devastation and resilience. It is a testament to Eastland's skill as a storyteller and his ability to transport readers to another time and place.

While "The Elegant Lie" is a captivating read, it occasionally stumbles under the weight of its own ambition. Some subplots feel underdeveloped, and certain characters lack the depth needed to truly resonate. However, these flaws do little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the novel. Eastland has crafted a compelling story that explores the dark underbelly of post-war Germany with nuance and intrigue.

Vulture Peak by John Burdett

John Burdett's "Vulture Peak" plunges readers into the murky depths of Bangkok's criminal underworld, with Detective Sonchai Jitpleecheep navigating a labyrinth of organ trafficking and corruption. Burdett’s prose is sharp and immersive, capturing the chaotic energy of the city and the moral complexities of its inhabitants. The novel deftly balances gritty crime elements with philosophical musings, offering a unique perspective on justice and human nature.

The characters in "Vulture Peak" are richly drawn, with Sonchai standing out as a deeply conflicted protagonist. His duality as a Buddhist cop dealing with the darkest aspects of humanity provides a fascinating tension throughout the narrative. The supporting cast, including a cast of morally ambiguous figures, adds depth and intrigue to the story, making every twist and turn unpredictable and engaging.

Burdett's portrayal of Bangkok is as much a character as any of the individuals in the book. The city's vibrant, chaotic atmosphere permeates every page, adding to the novel's authenticity and intensity. "Vulture Peak" is a compelling read for those who enjoy a blend of crime fiction and existential reflection, offering a thought-provoking exploration of morality in a morally ambiguous world.

The novel intricately weaves the cultural fabric of Thailand into its narrative, enriching the reader's experience with authentic details. Burdett’s deep understanding of Thai customs, beliefs, and societal norms is evident, providing a vivid backdrop to the story. From the reverence for Buddhism to the complexities of Thai social hierarchy, these cultural elements are seamlessly integrated into the plot, making the setting not just a backdrop but an essential component of the narrative. This cultural immersion adds layers of meaning and context, making the reader's journey through Bangkok’s underworld all the more profound.

Blood Work by Michael Connelly

“Heart transplant leads ex-FBI agent into a deadly murder mystery.”

Michael Connelly's "Blood Work" is a gripping tale of murder, mystery, and redemption, masterfully weaving together elements of crime fiction with a profound exploration of personal guilt and recovery. The story centers around retired FBI agent Terry McCaleb, who is recuperating from a heart transplant when he is approached by the sister of his heart donor. She implores him to investigate her sister's unsolved murder, dragging McCaleb back into a world he thought he had left behind.

Connelly's narrative prowess shines through in "Blood Work," as he intricately plots a story filled with twists and turns that keep the reader on the edge of their seat. The protagonist, McCaleb, is a complex character, grappling with his mortality and the ethical implications of his second chance at life. Connelly deftly explores themes of identity and obligation, delving into McCaleb's internal struggles as he seeks justice for the woman whose heart now beats in his chest.

The novel is not just a straightforward whodunit; it’s a deep dive into the human psyche and the lengths to which one will go to seek redemption. The secondary characters are well-developed, each adding layers to the intricate plot. The investigation itself is a blend of forensic detail and psychological insight, showcasing Connelly’s background as a former crime reporter. The pacing is impeccable, building suspense until the final, jaw-dropping revelation.

"Blood Work" is a testament to Connelly's skill as a storyteller, combining meticulous research with an engaging narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. It’s a thrilling ride that not only entertains but also poses significant questions about life, death, and the moral complexities of organ transplants and the obligations they might carry.

The King of Torts by John Grisham

“Lawyer's greed transforms justice into profit, moral dilemmas soon follow.”

John Grisham's The King of Torts delves into the cutthroat world of mass tort litigation through the eyes of Clay Carter, a struggling public defender. Clay's life takes a dramatic turn when he stumbles upon a high-stakes pharmaceutical case that promises riches beyond his wildest dreams. Grisham introduces readers to the intricacies of the legal profession, showcasing how a single case can catapult a lawyer from obscurity to wealth and fame.

Grisham masterfully explores themes of ambition, greed, and the moral dilemmas faced by those in pursuit of wealth. Clay's journey from an idealistic lawyer to a wealthy litigator raises questions about the cost of success and the ethical compromises made along the way. The narrative delves into the seductive power of money and the impact it has on personal integrity and professional ethics.

The novel is fast-paced and filled with legal intricacies, making it a compelling read for both legal enthusiasts and casual readers. Grisham's ability to weave complex legal scenarios with engaging storytelling keeps the reader hooked. However, some may find the characters' moral ambiguity and the rapid shift in plot developments a bit contrived, detracting from the overall believability of the story. Despite this, The King of Torts remains a gripping exploration of the dark side of the legal world.

Prey by Michael Crichton

“Nanobots escape lab, evolve, become deadly predator, and threaten humanity.”

Prey is a gripping techno-thriller that explores the potential dangers of nanotechnology. Michael Crichton weaves a tale of scientific hubris and unintended consequences, as a swarm of self-replicating nanobots escapes from a lab and evolves into a deadly predator. The novel is a page-turner, filled with suspense and action, as the characters race against time to stop the nanobots before they wreak havoc on the world.

Crichton's writing is engaging and accessible, even as he delves into complex scientific concepts. He skillfully blends action, suspense, and scientific detail, creating a story that is both thrilling and thought-provoking. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and the plot is fast-paced and unpredictable.

Jack Forman, the protagonist, is a laid-off software engineer who becomes entangled in the crisis when his wife, Julia, a high-powered executive at the nanotech company responsible for the nanobots, disappears. As Jack investigates, he discovers the terrifying truth about the nanobots and their rapidly evolving intelligence. He must use his knowledge of computer programming and artificial intelligence to outsmart the swarm and save his family and the world.

Prey is a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. It is a thrilling and thought-provoking read that will leave you questioning the ethical implications of scientific progress. It serves as a reminder that even the most well-intentioned scientific endeavors can have unforeseen and devastating consequences.

Feed by M.T. Anderson

“Brain implants, rampant consumerism, and the fight to think freely.”

M.T. Anderson's "Feed" is a prophetic punch in the gut, a chilling cautionary tale about the dangers lurking behind screens and the commodification of individuality. Set in a future where the "feed" is a brain implant granting constant access to a relentless torrent of information, advertising, and social connection, "Feed" reveals a world in which critical thought and personal reflection have dangerously atrophied.

The novel's protagonist, Titus, is the epitome of his generation—apathetic, distracted, and utterly dependent on the feed's validation. His distorted language, peppered with corporate-speak and marketing jingles, is both humorous and horrifying, reflecting the profound erosion of communication. The story picks up steam when Titus meets Violet, a girl battling against the feed's influence. Their burgeoning relationship provides a touchstone of humanity amid the bleak dystopian landscape.

Anderson's satire is merciless, and his world feels eerily familiar in our current age of social media and algorithmic manipulation. The focus on environmental decay, as evident in toxic "lesions" blighting the landscape, adds a layer of urgency to the cautionary tone. While Titus is initially a difficult character to sympathize with, his gradual awakening to the manipulative nature of the feed is both compelling and disconcerting.

The novel's most potent strength lies in its discomforting ambiguity. The ending refuses to offer easy solutions or neat resolutions, underlining the ongoing struggle for free thought and autonomy. "Feed" forces its readers to confront their own complicity within a system of consumerism and technology that may ultimately erode what makes us human.

"Feed" raises powerful questions about our dependence on technology, corporate manipulation, and the potential loss of individuality and critical thought. This unsettling novel is prophetic– especially considering it was published in 2002, a time well before the era of social media dominance. While not a traditionally pleasant read, M.T. Anderson's work demands your attention.

Men Without Women by Haruki Murakami

"Solitary souls adrift, Murakami explores masculine solitude with piercing insight.”

Men Without Women," a collection of seven short stories by Haruki Murakami, delves into the nuanced psyche of men who find themselves in the liminal space of solitude. Murakami, with his quintessential blend of the surreal and the mundane, crafts narratives that are both deeply personal and universally resonant, exploring themes of loneliness, love lost, and the complex inner lives of his characters.

Each story in the collection serves as a vignette, offering a window into the lives of men who are, in one way or another, without women. Whether through death, separation, or emotional distance, the absence of women in these stories acts as a catalyst for introspection and, at times, existential despair. Murakami's prose is elegantly spare, yet it conveys deep emotional undercurrents, making each story feel like a contemplative journey through the characters' inner worlds.

A standout feature of Murakami's writing is his ability to weave the surreal into the fabric of everyday life, creating a sense of otherworldliness that magnifies the emotional impact of his narratives. His characters navigate their loneliness and longing with a quiet resilience, often finding solace in the simple acts of living or in the beauty of the natural world.

"Men Without Women" is not just a meditation on the absence of women, but a broader exploration of human solitude and the ways in which we seek connection and meaning in life. Murakami's stories are tinged with a sense of melancholy, but they also offer moments of profound insight and beauty, reflecting the complex tapestry of human experience.

The book is a masterfully written collection that showcases Haruki Murakami's talent for exploring the depths of the human heart. It is a poignant, reflective work that resonates long after the last page is turned, inviting readers to ponder the nuances of connection and the quiet spaces of solitude that exist within us all.

Junk by Melvin Burgess

“Gritty, honest exploration of teenage drug addiction's harsh, harsh realities.”

"Junk," authored by Melvin Burgess, is a compelling and unflinching exploration of teenage life on the fringes of society, delving into the raw and tumultuous experiences of its protagonists, Tar and Gemma, as they navigate the treacherous waters of drug addiction, freedom, and love. Published in 1996, this novel has been both celebrated and criticized for its gritty realism and candid portrayal of sensitive issues such as drug use, homelessness, and the search for identity.

Burgess does not shy away from the harsh realities of addiction and its consequences, making "Junk" a significant departure from more sanitized narratives about adolescence. Instead, he offers a narrative that is as educational as it is cautionary, employing a multi-perspective storytelling technique that adds depth and complexity to the narrative. Each character's viewpoint provides unique insights into the story, making the consequences of their choices more impactful to the reader.

The novel’s strength lies in its characters, who are flawed, relatable, and deeply human. Burgess’s portrayal of Tar and Gemma’s descent into heroin addiction is both sympathetic and unapologetically honest, making it a powerful tool for initiating discussions about drug abuse, peer pressure, and the importance of making informed choices.

However, "Junk" has also faced criticism for its explicit content and perceived glamorization of drug use, leading to debates about its suitability for young readers. Despite these controversies, it has been acknowledged for its educational value and its ability to engage with difficult topics in a meaningful way.

"Junk" by Melvin Burgess is a seminal work that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths about society, addiction, and adolescence. Its honest depiction of the highs and lows of drug use and its effects on relationships and personal growth make it a must-read for those seeking to understand the complexities of teenage life on the margins.

The Godfather of Kathmandu by John Burdett

“Intriguing fusion of crime, spirituality within a vivid Kathmandu backdrop.”

"The Godfather of Kathmandu," a novel by John Burdett, is an intriguing crime thriller set in the bustling, vivid backdrop of Kathmandu. This is the fourth book in Burdett's series featuring the Thai detective, Sonchai Jitpleecheep. The story delves into the dark and complex world of crime in Kathmandu, interweaving elements of Eastern spirituality with the gritty realities of drug trade and corruption.

The narrative style of Burdett is immersive, richly painting the cultural and spiritual landscape of Kathmandu. The protagonist, Sonchai, is a deeply complex character, a Buddhist detective who grapples with moral dilemmas amidst a world of crime. His personal journey and internal conflicts add depth to the story.

One of the key strengths of the book is its vivid portrayal of Kathmandu, a city teeming with life, spirituality, and darkness. Burdett's attention to detail brings this world to life, offering readers a visceral experience of the city's sights, sounds, and smells.

The plot is intricate, filled with twists and turns that keep the reader engaged. The interplay of crime, corruption, and spirituality offers a unique take on the detective genre. However, some readers might find the pace a bit slow in parts, and the complex plot requires attentive reading.

Overall, "The Godfather of Kathmandu" is a compelling read, offering a unique blend of crime thriller and cultural exploration. It's a book that will resonate with readers who enjoy complex narratives and rich, atmospheric settings.

Atomic Habits by James Clear

“Small, consistent habit changes compound into transformative, identity-based personal growth.”

James Clear’s "Atomic Habits" masterfully dives into the mechanics of habits: how they’re formed, how they shape our lives, and how we can mold them to drive personal and professional success. It stands apart in the realm of self-help books by offering actionable advice rooted in scientific research and real-world examples.

Clear does not just prescribe a list of habits; instead, he goes a level deeper by providing the framework needed to design habits tailored to an individual's unique life and goals. The book introduces the reader to the idea that small, incremental changes, when compounded over time, can lead to massive transformation. His 1% better everyday approach underscores the idea that monumental results can be achieved not necessarily by making big leaps, but by making tiny adjustments consistently.

One of the major strengths of "Atomic Habits" is its clear and accessible structure. Clear divides the process of habit formation into four laws: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. By unpacking each law with anecdotes, research-backed findings, and actionable steps, he demystifies a topic that often feels elusive and intangible.

Another compelling aspect of the book is Clear's focus on identity-based habits. Instead of merely focusing on what one wants to achieve, he emphasizes the importance of focusing on who one wants to become. This paradigm shift from outcome-based habits to identity-based ones is transformative and helps to ensure long-term adherence and success.

If there's any shortcoming, it's that some readers might find certain sections slightly repetitive. However, the repetition might be a deliberate strategy to reinforce the key concepts, especially given the nature of the topic.

In conclusion, "Atomic Habits" by James Clear is a seminal work in the area of personal development. It is essential reading for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of habits and a structured approach to implementing them.

Fugitive Pieces by Anne Michaels

“Haunted by the past, two men seek healing through memory.”

Fugitive Pieces is a novel by Canadian poet Anne Michaels. The book was first published in 1996 and is well-known for its beautiful prose and deep, poetic insight.

The novel is divided into two parts, and it tells the story of two men, Jakob Beer and Ben, whose lives are scarred by their experiences during and after World War II.

Jakob, a Jewish boy, is orphaned during the war and is rescued by a Greek geologist. Throughout his life, he struggles to come to terms with the loss of his family and the trauma of the past. His experiences are related through his own narrative, as he reflects on his life, his love, his work as a poet, and his personal growth.

The second part of the book is narrated by Ben, a researcher who is greatly influenced by Jakob's work. He, too, grapples with personal traumas and seeks understanding through the study of history, memory, and personal connection.

"Fugitive Pieces" explores themes of memory, history, loss, love, and redemption, weaving these themes together in a way that has touched many readers. The poetic language and profound insights into human emotion and experience have made it a notable work in contemporary literature.

Never Split The Difference by Chris Voss

“FBI negotiator's playbook: empathize, strategize, and never compromise success.”

"Never Split the Difference" is a fascinating book that redefines the conventional wisdom surrounding the art of negotiation. Written by Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, the book offers a unique perspective on negotiations based on his experiences in high-stakes, life-or-death situations.

Voss shares a plethora of practical and effective techniques, including the "Accusation Audit," "Tactical Empathy," and "The 7-38-55 Rule," which can be applied not only to high-stakes negotiations but also to everyday life situations. These techniques are derived from a combination of behavioral psychology and street-smart strategies that Voss has honed during his career.

One of the book's key takeaways is the idea that "no deal is better than a bad deal." Voss challenges the notion that splitting the difference is an acceptable compromise. Instead, he advocates for seeking the best possible outcome and not settling for less. This mindset is a game-changer for anyone looking to improve their negotiation skills.

"Never Split the Difference" is a must-read for anyone looking to sharpen their negotiation skills or gain a deeper understanding of human behavior. Chris Voss's unique perspective, engaging storytelling, and practical techniques make this book an invaluable resource that can be applied to a wide range of situations, from business negotiations to interpersonal relationships. While the structure of the book could be improved, its content more than compensates for this minor shortcoming.

Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World by Haruki Murakami

“When you tap into your subconscious, you might not leave.”

The novel is divided into alternating chapters, with two distinct storylines. The first, "Hard-Boiled Wonderland," is a gritty cybercrime and infowar adventure set in a dystopian urban setting, where characters are programmed to encrypt and manipulate data. The second, "The End of the World," is set in a utopian town surrounded by a wall, where unicorns are allowed in and out daily, and the narrator is a newcomer tasked with being a "Dreamreader."

At first, the stories appear unrelated, with vastly different settings and tones. However, as the novel progresses, elements from both storylines begin to overlap, creating an intriguing and mysterious puzzle for the reader to unravel. The novel expertly balances being a page-turner with providing enough clues for the reader to anticipate connections, without offering a definitive solution.

The book explores one of my favorite subjects, the human mind, with its powers, mysteries, and drawbacks. Murakami masterfully uses metaphors to convey the joys of deep thought, the dangers of a narrow-minded perspective, and the connection between the mind and emotions, making for an engaging and thrilling journey.

Overall, I found the story to be intriguing, but the characters lacked depth and emotion. They felt like cardboard cutouts, which detracted from the story. Although the plot was imaginative and inventive, it felt like the author did not fully explore the potential of certain themes, such as the narrator's shadow, which held promise but ultimately led to no resolution.

The Bangkok Asset by John Burdett

“We’re only human, up until the point when we aren’t.”

This sixth entry in the Royal Thai series opens with a gruesome murder that cannot be explained as the work of any human being. (Take my word for this. You don't want to know details.)

Burdett's Sonchai Jitpleecheep books keep getting better. Unlike earlier novels in the series, The Bangkok Asset takes Sonchai, and readers, where they haven't been before. Like Marcus Sakey's "Brilliance," "The Bangkok Asset" is about humans with superhuman powers, the effect those powers have on the people who wield them, and the effect these "enhanced" humans have on society. But while Sakey's book is set in the near future and requires a leap of faith to accept the premise, Burdett's novel is set in the present and is all the more chilling for its plausibility.

A very good book for the conspiracy-minded and creepy addition to the Sonchai Jitpleecheep storyline, although one wonders if this means there are no more books in this series because major questions were addressed. although perhaps it sets the stage for a new direction. Although I thought it was interesting, it was also tiring and perhaps even a bit too fantastical for my simple mind. I have enjoyed these books and will likely pick up the next when it arrives.

Later by Stephen King

“If you can see the dead, maybe don’t tell people”

Later is considered a horror story, which is usually not a genre I read. But, hey, it’s Steven King. And it was short enough to give it a go.

The premise is that Jamie Conklin has the ability to see and talk to dead people. Told from the perspective of Jamie Conklin, the narrative shuttles between the immediacy of now and the hindsight of “later” to tell a kind of coming-of-age-as-mystery story, an exploration of innocence and what’s on the other side of childhood.

In Later, as well as telling a good story, Stephen King lightly brushes and engages with wider concepts. He looks at childhood relationships, what clarifies right and wrong, if murder can be justifiable, and far more. Whilst the book does not revolve around these issues, it certainly brings in a humane, thought-provoking angle in including such issues from the perspective of a child.

The key to this snappy little novel that reads so quickly is the narrative voice of Jamie. It has that coming-of-age innocence laced with a bit of streetwise sarcasm that just works so well. Despite an ultimate battle between good and evil, this one you find to be horror-lite. It doesn't get to the point of being terrifying, but coasts around that border a little.

Look Who's Back by Timur Vermes

“Hitler wasn’t all that bad, considering he’s now a celebrity”

With daring and dark humor, Look Who's Back skewers the absurdity and depravity of the cult of personality in modern media culture.

I appreciate how this Hitler was written, he isn't being presented to us like some comical monster or a clown. Instead, his logic (no matter how twisted and how hateful this logic is), his likes and dislikes, and even his opinions on his comrades are all displayed in a realistic way.

I was hoping that Hitler would experience an epiphany at some point, and did think that was going to happen when one of the characters talks of the sadness and anger of their Jewish relative at the fact that they are working with what is believed to be a very accurate Hitler impersonator.

However, any epiphany never happens and all we have is a character that you could feel sympathy for viewing the modern world seen through an imagined Hitler’s eyes.

While some may argue that it shows how a new Hitler figure could appear again and that it’s very profound, I can’t help being very uncomfortable with Hitler being portrayed as simplistically as a grumpy old man struggling with the modern world despite the message.

Bangkok Haunts by John Burdett

“Even amid the sex trade, demons, spirits, and ghosts exist.”

Overview: A snuff movie, an exclusive Gentlemen's Club and a mysterious monk all have one thing in common: the afterlife.

This, the third in the continuing saga of Sonchai Jitpleecheep, a half-Thai/half-American former-monk-turned-cop in Bangkok, shows both the strengths and weaknesses of this series in spades. This time, however, its flirtation with weirdness takes it right over the edge.

The thing that really set me off? This is a paranormal mystery. It's not billed that way, but that's what it is -- it can't work unless you're able to buy ghosts as semi-corporeal beings who can influence the living (and apparently have amazing sex drives).

Bangkok Haunts is a virtuoso exercise in voice, characterization and setting. However, if you're looking for a straightforward murder mystery, you sure won't find it here. If you understand what you're getting and like the concept, this may be your bottle of Singha; if you don't, you're likely to be very surprised, perhaps not in a good way.

Outliers by Malcolm Gladwell

“If you aren’t successful, check your birthdate, lineage, and circumstances.”

I much preferred this book to Talking to Strangers.

I originally thought this to be a self-improvement kind of book, but quickly figured that's not the case, then maybe some sort of a business development one, which also fell apart quickly. I cannot round off this any closer than to some kind of a sociology - psychology combo.

The lessons of this book can be put into a brief sentence: success depends on a series of cultural and other factors that are mostly beyond your control – however, the thing that is totally within your control about success is how much effort you put in. And the more effort you put in, the more likely you will be successful. They are directly proportional and we should all praise work as the key thing that really makes us human.

I thought the book felt like it suffered from data mining in that there didn't seem to be enough exploration of other equally successful groups that may not have had the same advantages. But still a fascinating look at what kinds of things influence success, whether we think about them or not.