Rarely, very rarely, I have what I call a written dream where I am both reading the dream and having it at the same time – it is a fairly surreal experience. What sparked this one – Constance by Patrick McGrath. His dialogue style is pretty unique and my dream was all in that same style. I was reading the novel before I went to sleep and, needless to say, I am finding it a little unsettling. I also read Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O’Farrell and the latest in a new mystery series for me – Death of a Dean by Hazel Holt. I wasn’t at a loss by starting at the new end of a series but I am not sure I liked it enough to go back to the beginning.
It has gotten cold here and the heat has actually kicked on – some rain but nearly as much as those of you in Oregon. My mom’s new dog and the cat are actually making strides in their relationship because it is too wet for a kitty to spend the day outside. Himself had a good first week of school and is busy getting ready for the next (such are weekends for teachers). I have been putting the house back together after tearing it apart for multiple projects as well as spending time with friends having been gone so much lately.
Here is what caught my interest this week:
This one may need to be put on your used bookstore list (or inter-library loan list) The Matriarch by G.B. Stern reviewed by The Book Snob. While it is being reprinted, it seems the reprint is not available in the United States. Stern was an extremely prolific English author who was well connected with other literary figures of her era. She is perhaps best known for a series of novels loosely based on her own family – The Rakonitz Chronicles, of which includes The Matriarch. Anastasia Rakonitz is the matriarch of a fabulously wealthy family ruling with an iron will and brooking no dissent. After years of this, the family circumstances change with the new 30th century. Sounds fascinating.
Sam Still Reading is an Australian blogger I follow. She has wonderful posts about books and one that she has reviewed is available in the US via electronic readers – Mr. Wigg by Inga Simpson. Mr. Wigg is a widower living in a rural area during the 1970’s. It is a quiet book about the passage of time and his relationship with his grandchildren. This one might be best with a nice cup of tea.
Finally, Chrisbookarama has some of the nicest bookish links including this one of bookstore windows – wish I could visit each shop.
Happy reading!
Reflections from the Hinterland 
Thank you for your kind words 🙂 A dream about Constance must be a bit creepy – I loved the book, but I think a dream would freak me out!