Charles Fishman

Advantages: Sheer, page turning, terror
Disadvantages: Can be a bit brief in places

...he is a cop in 1850 New York. His main opponent is 'Fishman' who takes a rather large fish knife to his victims. Next however, Munn finds that the 'Fishman' has somehow escaped his VR world and invaded his real life. This book will keep you turning the pages gripped to the very ending which does not fail to disappoint. Just as you think it simply can't get nay better, it does. The plot has more twists and turns than the average Star Wars movie and is definately deserving of the 5 stars I have given it.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Wonderful Insight into Japanese Culture
Disadvantages: I couldn't put it down

...Arthur Golden beautifully translates this autobiography, as dictated to him by Sayuri herself from her suite in the Waldorf Towers, New York. It completely transported me into a world of Japanese culture and into the extraordinary life of a young girl. The book contains absolutely fascinating detail that brings the story to life before your eyes. The story flows with eloquence throughout the hardship's and joys of Sayuri's life, first as a lowly Fishmans child, to an elegant yet exploitive career as a Geisha and on to when she finally won her freedom. The descriptive references to nature and the seasons really made be stop and think. Sayuri has a talent for seeing the good all around her even when her internal torment would drive others to distraction, I find this truly amazing and inspiring. Although the book describes a life... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Good story
Disadvantages: Selective

...Charles is according to its author, a biographical novel, not a biography. It aims to be accurate but it is also selective and interpretative. As such it is easy and interesting to read. My main desire on completing the novel is to read a real biography about Charles Dickens. Charles serves as an interesting introduction, a way of becoming familiar with personalities without becoming inundated by too much detail initially. It tells a good story which would compel even without the attraction of its famous name. I would recommend this book.... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average not helpful