Maura Murphy

Advantages: Interesting social history aspects
Disadvantages: A fairly despicable subject

...If I was to tell you that in her autobiography "Don't Wake Me at Doyles'", Maura Murphy describes herself as being born "chronically ugly and cross as a briar" in 1920s Ireland, you might think that you're in line for some heartbreaking but humorous and self-deprecating tales in the vein of Frank McCourt's best-selling "Angela's Ashes" (Doyles' of the books title is the name of an Offaly bar where Maura Murphy's husband spent most of his free -time and the bulk of the house-keeping money, which reminded me greatly of Frank McCourt). Indeed, this is how the account starts - a charming account of a typical upbringing in a poverty stricken Irish family. Maura Murphy paints an eye-catching picture and tells a good story despite the lack of a formal education and she should certainly feel proud of this her first published work. However... Read review

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Advantages: Just as good as Dangerous Lady
Disadvantages: It ends

...Martina Cole has done is yet again in this excellent follow-up to Dangerous Lady. Her writing, as in all of her books (yes i have read all of them!) is as addictive and passionate as always, showing parts of some of the characters we never imagined we could see. It is yet another well written crime book set in London/Essex. As in the first installment (Dangerous Lady) the main characters are the London gangland family, the Ryan's. Maura, the Head of the family, is now in her forties, and has just lost her ex-policeman lover, Terry. From the very begining this book is full of more twist and turns than your favourite high speed rollercoaster. It shows a new side to Maura, the "hardfaced cow" of the family, yes she is still as ruthless and business minded as ever, but this book shows more of her softer, more femine side... Read review

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Advantages: Worthwhile Experience - A must
Disadvantages: None

...When i first started to read this book i was a little cautious as i have usually played it safe when it comes to books. This book changed all of that. Although i found it quite hard to read at first - weak stomach you see lol, I also found that i could not put the book down. I found myself getting enthrawled in whats going to happen next and why. The book is so well written you feel like you were actually there with Maura through every step of the way and being part of her daily trials and tribulations. I guarantee you wont be able to put the book down. This is a must read and I now enjoy Martina Cole as an author and think she is a fantastic writer and actually manages to make you part of the journey from start to finish.This book i recommend to everyone.. Go on read it.. you wont regret it... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful