Blackmoor by Edward Hogan

Blackmoor by Edward Hogan

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK (September 2009)

220 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $9.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Content Note: Includes Swearing

Being an albino, Beth has been avoided and looked upon with suspicion in the small Derbyshire town she's lived in all her life, her husband George the only person who is interested in her beyond a curiosity. But the birth of her son and a bad case of postpartum depression, along with the environmental changes taking over the small town, all conspire to end in her death. This is an interesting study in the small insignificant things in a person's life that come together to form change and loss. The interaction between George and his son, Vincent, or lack thereof, highlighting the simultaneous avoidance and cleaving desperation that surrounds the memory of Beth. Thought provoking, with rich imagery and a blunt style, oftentimes conveying an uncomfortably accurate assessment of the grittiness of life, stripped of the glamour we wish it had. Great read!

The Hunger Trace by Edward Hogan

The Hunger Trace by Edward Hogan

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK (March 2011)

368 pages, eBook (purchased myself for $9.99)

Book Rating: 5 Stars

Content Note: Includes Sexual Situations and Swearing

In the wake of David Bryant's untimely death, Maggie (David's widow), Christopher (David's son from a previous marriage), Louisa (David's former park falconer turned neighbor) and Adam (male prostitute) are all thrown together forming a complicated web of relationships, as the two women and Christopher deal with David's passing and struggle to get on with life.  All of the characters in this story are complex and fascinating, in their own deranged way. The story is told in alternating viewpoints, showing that each character has their own set of issues, while trying to deal with those of the other characters. I was absolutely riveted right to the end and only wish the ending hadn't been quite so open ended. I'll just infer that everyone involved received their happy ending, especially Adam. Excellent Read!