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Shallow Be Thy Grave
Half-sisters Lily and Fiona haven't had the easiest of relationships—hardly surprising when they discovered each other's existence only a year ago. But when Fiona disappears, and it's all Lily's fault, Lily knows she has no choice but to fly to Paris and track the wayward seventeen-year old down. Accompanied by her best friend Jo, Lily soon uncovers her sister's secret life in the French capital. What does Fiona's employer, the suave M. Beaumont, know about her disappearance? Who is the mysterious Bridget, and why is the Shadow Minister for Justice involved? As communism collapses around them, Lily learns disturbing truths about sibling rivalry, the international sex trade and the dark side of herself. Is Lily too late to save her sister and restore her fantasy of what a happy family should look like? Time is running out.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
March 28, 2014
So the second novel featuring Lily Appleyard – This one heads far more into the “mystery” genre and solidifies some of the events of book one. Lily and her newly found half sister Fiona have a rocky relationship – but when Fiona disappears, Lily sets off on a journey to find her.
Once again I was struck by the characterisation and emotional resonance of the writing here – even though its a very different book in a lot of ways the heart of it remains the same. As Lily searches the sense of place here is also terrific – I could almost imagine myself right there in Paris and Amsterdam. Lily has a sense of obligation here, feeling responsible for Fiona’s disappearance, as she heads into the world of sex trading and the darker side of human nature, this is compelling stuff indeed.
Also again, the exploration of family, especially with relation to sibling rivalry is highly authentic even given the circumstances – Lily discovers things about herself as much as about her sister and this is engaging and fascinating reading.
I also found that I got to know Jo, Lily’s friend, a lot more in this book than the last – she’s probably one of my favourite characters here.
Overall the two novels sit extremely well together and I thought both were fantastic. I’m very pleased to hear that we will visit again with Lily – I’m interested to see what is next for her.
Once again, very much recommended. And read them in order!
Once again I was struck by the characterisation and emotional resonance of the writing here – even though its a very different book in a lot of ways the heart of it remains the same. As Lily searches the sense of place here is also terrific – I could almost imagine myself right there in Paris and Amsterdam. Lily has a sense of obligation here, feeling responsible for Fiona’s disappearance, as she heads into the world of sex trading and the darker side of human nature, this is compelling stuff indeed.
Also again, the exploration of family, especially with relation to sibling rivalry is highly authentic even given the circumstances – Lily discovers things about herself as much as about her sister and this is engaging and fascinating reading.
I also found that I got to know Jo, Lily’s friend, a lot more in this book than the last – she’s probably one of my favourite characters here.
Overall the two novels sit extremely well together and I thought both were fantastic. I’m very pleased to hear that we will visit again with Lily – I’m interested to see what is next for her.
Once again, very much recommended. And read them in order!
May 7, 2015
Expertly written, punchy and with a shadow hanging over it, I thought that this book was as good, if not better than the first one! (Our Father Who Art Out There ... Somewhere).
The story literally picks up where the previous one left off and I got to know Lily (and her best friend Jo) even better this time. As well as meeting a number of other very believable shady characters.
The cover gave the premise for this part of the story away. and I'll be honest I was gutted. I was hoping to see certain relationships develop (trying not to give too much away), but that wasn't to be - this was all about the chase, guilt and a distinct lack of circumspect!
Again, it's fast paced with a hefty hint of comedic twist, on some pretty serious and terrifying issues.
This tale is far darker than the first book and I really like it for that. The author puts us in the thick of it, stretches us to our limits, makes us stand on the edge, and the reader is compelled to hang in there for what proves to be quite a hair-raising ride.
I can't wait to read the next one!
ps I'm so glad that I read them in order .. MAKE SURE YOU READ THEM IN ORDER!
The story literally picks up where the previous one left off and I got to know Lily (and her best friend Jo) even better this time. As well as meeting a number of other very believable shady characters.
The cover gave the premise for this part of the story away. and I'll be honest I was gutted. I was hoping to see certain relationships develop (trying not to give too much away), but that wasn't to be - this was all about the chase, guilt and a distinct lack of circumspect!
Again, it's fast paced with a hefty hint of comedic twist, on some pretty serious and terrifying issues.
This tale is far darker than the first book and I really like it for that. The author puts us in the thick of it, stretches us to our limits, makes us stand on the edge, and the reader is compelled to hang in there for what proves to be quite a hair-raising ride.
I can't wait to read the next one!
ps I'm so glad that I read them in order .. MAKE SURE YOU READ THEM IN ORDER!
December 18, 2013
Second book by this author I've read and you know what? It just gets better. The characters are very real Lily and her friends in particular. The story is fast moving and very engaging. I love the descriptions of Amsterdam and Paris, especially Paris; you can almost smell the apartments and the metro. I was a little surprised to find it to a crime novel, despite the title and cover. I guess because I read the first one Our Father.. Saying that it was so well done and such a satisfying read.
Good right through to the end :)
Good right through to the end :)
December 30, 2014
This book was written for young readers and as a mature lady of advancing years I struggled to read it. The characters use of bad language, drug taking and drinking habits were many of the reasons I felt older readers would be put off, but younger people might be able to identify with them.
The story line was good and engaging and would be a thrilling thriller for those that like a bit of grip in their drama
The story line was good and engaging and would be a thrilling thriller for those that like a bit of grip in their drama
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews