pickI have always enjoyed Tremain‘s writing which is masterful and immersive. But I don‘t think this is one of her stronger books. Her canvas is so broad - Bath London Dublin and Borneo and her themes - gender sexuality race colonialism and male dysfunction - so ambitious that it was inevitable her engagement would be superficial. Some characters were two dimensional and Dr Ross particularly unconvincing. Only just a pick because a page turner!
Just started this which I picked up in a charity shop. Strong opening but I already feel the cast of characters may be too large to properly engage we shall see!
so-soAt first I loved this as a cosy escape: assured writing, strong women & genteel Bath tea-rooms & exotic Borneo settings. But the sting went out of it. There was a lack of tension between the characters. Jane must choose between a ho-hum marriage &a comfortable & exciting single life. She‘ll be fine either way so it‘s hard to care. The Borneo story is colonial w local man (& some colonists) painted as villain, & doesn‘t connect so seems irrelevant.
I‘m so thankful to have a garden. This will be my view for a while as we‘re in lockdown (can‘t leave the house) for 6 days. Stay safe south Australians! Loving the book so far. 📖
Islands of Mercy | 
