What do you think?
Rate this book
Canary Islands Mysteries #1
A Matter of Latitude
From the acclaimed author of The Drago Tree comes a riveting thriller about survival, revenge and long-hidden secrets.
When Lanzarote anti-corruption activist Celestino is T-boned on a lonely road, he knows the collision was no accident. Wounded and fearing for his life, he hides in an abandoned fishing village, waiting for a chance to make it home.
Meanwhile, his wife Paula is distraught and sets out to look for him. Paula's search for her husband quickly descends into mayhem, danger and intrigue. Before long, she realizes she’s being followed. She needs answers, and fast.
But where is Celestino, and will he ever make it back alive?
"A Matter of Latitude simmers with danger, betrayal and treachery, drawing the reader into the island’s history of shady dealings and uneasy relationships between natives, tourists and expats... Isobel Blackthorn has crafted an atmospheric and setting-rich novel with alluring lyrical style." – Sandi Wallace, award-winning crime fiction author
Praise from
★★★★★ - "If you enjoy international stories full of drama and culture, this is definitely one to put on your list."
★★★★★ - "The author was brilliant in her descriptions and really brought some scenes alive for me. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense and interesting characters."
When Lanzarote anti-corruption activist Celestino is T-boned on a lonely road, he knows the collision was no accident. Wounded and fearing for his life, he hides in an abandoned fishing village, waiting for a chance to make it home.
Meanwhile, his wife Paula is distraught and sets out to look for him. Paula's search for her husband quickly descends into mayhem, danger and intrigue. Before long, she realizes she’s being followed. She needs answers, and fast.
But where is Celestino, and will he ever make it back alive?
"A Matter of Latitude simmers with danger, betrayal and treachery, drawing the reader into the island’s history of shady dealings and uneasy relationships between natives, tourists and expats... Isobel Blackthorn has crafted an atmospheric and setting-rich novel with alluring lyrical style." – Sandi Wallace, award-winning crime fiction author
Praise from
★★★★★ - "If you enjoy international stories full of drama and culture, this is definitely one to put on your list."
★★★★★ - "The author was brilliant in her descriptions and really brought some scenes alive for me. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes suspense and interesting characters."
291 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2018
593 people are currently reading
378 people want to read
About the author
Isobel Blackthorn
49 books177 followersIsobel Blackthorn is an award-winning author of unique and engaging fiction. She writes across a range of genres, including dark psychological thrillers, gripping mystery novels, captivating travel fiction and hilarious dark satire. Isobel holds a PhD in Western Esotericism for her groundbreaking study of the texts of Theosophist Alice A. Bailey. Isobel carries a lifelong passion for the Canary Islands, Spain, her former home. A Londoner originally, Isobel currently lives in Spain.
www.isobelblackthorn.com
https://www.creativia.org/isobel-blac...
https://twitter.com/IBlackthorn
https://www.facebook.com/Lovesick.Iso...
www.isobelblackthorn.com
https://www.creativia.org/isobel-blac...
https://twitter.com/IBlackthorn
https://www.facebook.com/Lovesick.Iso...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
March 15, 2020
A Matter of Latitude is the second book I've read by author Isobel Blackthorn. In this tale of corruption and psychological fear, readers get to know Celestino and Paula, a married couple with a young daughter who live in the Canary Islands. From the gripping opening when Celestino is nearly killed in a car accident, attacked by a dog, and almost swallowed by the sea, we know we're in for a traumatic ride...
The novel alternates between Celestino and Paula as they attempt to find their way back to one another. Celestino is wounded and knows someone is trying to kill him. He's an artist who was trying to work on a painting with a client, but there seems to be something going on with his role in the widespread corruption occurring throughout Lanzarote, the island where they live. Paula is waiting for him to return for their daughter's birthday party, but he never shows. She relies on her parents, who've moved to the island during retirement, but they aren't as helpful as they could be. Throw in a few neighbors and friends, and Paula spends most of the book tracking down Celestino's whereabouts on the day of the storm when he went missing. What she learns about her husband is not something she's prepared to understand. Is he dead? Has he crossed to the evil side? Is he purposely leaving her in suspense? Is he protecting her from someone? Celestino finally finds some help, but it might be too late for him to return home further unharmed. Add in a couple more deaths, and this thriller will have you nonstop guessing what's going on with this captivating couple.
Blackthorn's writing prowess can easily be seen in her descriptions. She always leaves a clear visual of the landscape, expressions, and action happening on each of the pages. I particularly enjoy how her novels are set outside of an area where I have any familiarity. Despite not having been to the islands, I feel like I know them well now. I also like the details she provides about each character's background and personality, enabling readers to feel connected to the tale as if they're involved in the action themselves. Another strength is the layers involved in the corruption on the island. While we're fairly certain how to feel about the primary couple, beyond them, I couldn't tell who was innocent and who was guilty. From the kind / not-so-kind neighbor, to the best friends, to the guy following Paula around begging for help... one of them had to be involved. But who!?! Blackthorn kept me guessing until the very end. A good pay-off too...
If you enjoy international stories full of drama and culture, this is definitely one to put on your list. There's a fine balance of intrigue and serene comfort between all the action that leaves you thirsty for more of the author's work. Beyond a few books on the Canary Islands, there are others in her canon, too. I'm excited to check them out in the coming months.
The novel alternates between Celestino and Paula as they attempt to find their way back to one another. Celestino is wounded and knows someone is trying to kill him. He's an artist who was trying to work on a painting with a client, but there seems to be something going on with his role in the widespread corruption occurring throughout Lanzarote, the island where they live. Paula is waiting for him to return for their daughter's birthday party, but he never shows. She relies on her parents, who've moved to the island during retirement, but they aren't as helpful as they could be. Throw in a few neighbors and friends, and Paula spends most of the book tracking down Celestino's whereabouts on the day of the storm when he went missing. What she learns about her husband is not something she's prepared to understand. Is he dead? Has he crossed to the evil side? Is he purposely leaving her in suspense? Is he protecting her from someone? Celestino finally finds some help, but it might be too late for him to return home further unharmed. Add in a couple more deaths, and this thriller will have you nonstop guessing what's going on with this captivating couple.
Blackthorn's writing prowess can easily be seen in her descriptions. She always leaves a clear visual of the landscape, expressions, and action happening on each of the pages. I particularly enjoy how her novels are set outside of an area where I have any familiarity. Despite not having been to the islands, I feel like I know them well now. I also like the details she provides about each character's background and personality, enabling readers to feel connected to the tale as if they're involved in the action themselves. Another strength is the layers involved in the corruption on the island. While we're fairly certain how to feel about the primary couple, beyond them, I couldn't tell who was innocent and who was guilty. From the kind / not-so-kind neighbor, to the best friends, to the guy following Paula around begging for help... one of them had to be involved. But who!?! Blackthorn kept me guessing until the very end. A good pay-off too...
If you enjoy international stories full of drama and culture, this is definitely one to put on your list. There's a fine balance of intrigue and serene comfort between all the action that leaves you thirsty for more of the author's work. Beyond a few books on the Canary Islands, there are others in her canon, too. I'm excited to check them out in the coming months.
May 7, 2019
Another beautiful written tale about the Spanish island and another excellent mystery from Isobel Blackthorn. One of the things I enjoyed about this and a previous one I read (Clarissa's Warning) is the incomer to the island that is now the place she sees as home. I speak no Spanish and so these characters would be me trying to settle on the island and so they speak to me in a way; the women from elsewhere struggling to fit in and learn the language. That's hard enough but when you throw in trying to solve the disappearance of her husband then it becomes and even more difficult task and this is so wonderfully woven into the story.
The mystery element of the story kept me guessing to the end and I was fascinated by the corruption angle as it's something I know nothing about. The author keeps up the suspense all the way through to the end. It's a great book and as before now I really want a holiday!
The mystery element of the story kept me guessing to the end and I was fascinated by the corruption angle as it's something I know nothing about. The author keeps up the suspense all the way through to the end. It's a great book and as before now I really want a holiday!
January 29, 2020
This is a book of intrigues and retrospectives.
From the opening chapter we're caught with a murder attempt (or is it really?) When Celestino is run off the road. Although he's clearly caught off guard, he's aware he needs to hide, maybe not from the who, but he definitely knows the why.
From that point on we're on a mysterious chase for answers from his wife Paula, who clearly has no idea why her husband was missing, though she's aware his point of view on the expanding tourists was not favorable.
We're given brief glimpses of Celestino and his dilemma, but mostly we're following Paula and her search for answers, with flashbacks of the past.
I like how the separation served to spotlight the gap in their marriage, and where, and how, things went wrong, how each wants to make things right again.
Clues to the mystery were revealed slowly, keeping the reader guessing all the way through to the end. And did I mention the murder and the friend/neighbor who might not be a friend at all?
It's a convoluted tale of corruption and mystery in the Canary island of Lanzarote, and although I've never visited the island before, the author's exceptional descriptions transported me.
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the kind of mystery that leaves one guessing till the end.
From the opening chapter we're caught with a murder attempt (or is it really?) When Celestino is run off the road. Although he's clearly caught off guard, he's aware he needs to hide, maybe not from the who, but he definitely knows the why.
From that point on we're on a mysterious chase for answers from his wife Paula, who clearly has no idea why her husband was missing, though she's aware his point of view on the expanding tourists was not favorable.
We're given brief glimpses of Celestino and his dilemma, but mostly we're following Paula and her search for answers, with flashbacks of the past.
I like how the separation served to spotlight the gap in their marriage, and where, and how, things went wrong, how each wants to make things right again.
Clues to the mystery were revealed slowly, keeping the reader guessing all the way through to the end. And did I mention the murder and the friend/neighbor who might not be a friend at all?
It's a convoluted tale of corruption and mystery in the Canary island of Lanzarote, and although I've never visited the island before, the author's exceptional descriptions transported me.
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys the kind of mystery that leaves one guessing till the end.
May 14, 2019
I’ve really become a fan of Isobel Blackthorn’s writing. She is an incredibly gifted mystery writer and A Matter of Latitude just proves that more.
The mystery in this novel is so compelling and keeps you guessing all the way to the end. I love that. I really am not a fan when a reveal comes to quickly and that isn’t an issue at all here.
Love this story! The characters feel real, which made me nervous for them. I highly recommend checking this one out!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
The mystery in this novel is so compelling and keeps you guessing all the way to the end. I love that. I really am not a fan when a reveal comes to quickly and that isn’t an issue at all here.
Love this story! The characters feel real, which made me nervous for them. I highly recommend checking this one out!
*I received a copy of this book as part of a blog tour with Rachel's Random Resources. All opinions are my own.*
September 10, 2019
Audiobook: This is a very enjoyable novel. The writing is excellent and a wonderful narration that adds to the experience. The mystery revolves around a missing husband but expands into a second strand around three paintings. The atmosphere perfectly captures expat island life, a lifestyle I live with my own family. The pace, twists and turns of the plot are just right. Open a bottle of wine, put your feet up and imagine you're on the island of Lanzarote as you listen to this lovely novel.
December 28, 2018
The price of corruption.
What a wonderful tale the author has woven on what most people view as nothing more than an idyllic holiday destination in the Canary Islands. In this well-crafted mystery, we are gradually exposed to a far-reaching Web of corruption on the island of Lanzarote. When anti-corruption activist/artist Celestino disappears on his way home to be at his daughter's birthday party, his English wife, Paula has no inkling that her husband has been the victim of attempted murder and is holed up in the midst of a terrible storm, trying to avoid his would be killer. Over the coming days she is apparently being helped by neighbour, Shirley, an email address -pat who holds little love for Celestino, and who may have an agenda of her own. When Celestino's friend and fellow activist Pedro is murdered Paula's fears and worries for her missing husband intensify. Unable to report her husband's disappearance to the police for reasons you will have to read about, Paula becomes increasingly frantic and begins to fear that Celestino has suffered a similar fate to his friend. The conclusion to this story is so cleverly written and cnstructed that we are key guessing right to the end, the mark of a great mystery writer. I can thoroughly recommend this book to lovers of a good mystery.
What a wonderful tale the author has woven on what most people view as nothing more than an idyllic holiday destination in the Canary Islands. In this well-crafted mystery, we are gradually exposed to a far-reaching Web of corruption on the island of Lanzarote. When anti-corruption activist/artist Celestino disappears on his way home to be at his daughter's birthday party, his English wife, Paula has no inkling that her husband has been the victim of attempted murder and is holed up in the midst of a terrible storm, trying to avoid his would be killer. Over the coming days she is apparently being helped by neighbour, Shirley, an email address -pat who holds little love for Celestino, and who may have an agenda of her own. When Celestino's friend and fellow activist Pedro is murdered Paula's fears and worries for her missing husband intensify. Unable to report her husband's disappearance to the police for reasons you will have to read about, Paula becomes increasingly frantic and begins to fear that Celestino has suffered a similar fate to his friend. The conclusion to this story is so cleverly written and cnstructed that we are key guessing right to the end, the mark of a great mystery writer. I can thoroughly recommend this book to lovers of a good mystery.
April 16, 2019
Paula Cray was an English tourist agent who went on vacation herself, to Lanzarote, an island in the Canary Islands. There she met Celestino Diaz, an artist and an anti-corruption activist, and fell in love. Now they are married, and have a daughter about to turn three years old. Paula's parents have moved to Lanzarote, too, to be near their only child and only grandchild. Gloria's birthday party is being held at the home of Paula's parents, Bill and Angela.
But there's a major storm bearing down on the island, and Celestino has a commission to deliver, first. Paula is annoyed that he'll be late, but is well aware that they do need the money he'll be paid.
The storm hits, even worse than anticipated, and Celestino never arrives.
We see, in alternating chapters, we see Celestino's struggle to survive after a truck intentionally t-bones his car--to survive while hiding the fact that he has survived, and to get to safety--and Paula's growing worry, and search for her missing husband.
Celestino is struggling with a broken arm, a dog bite from a hungry and desperate stray dog, and clear evidence that someone is still hunting him in case he survived.
Paula is struggling with her conflicted feelings about Celestino's anti-corruption activism, her still-limited command of Spanish, the fact that Celestino's friends seem evasive, and an often helpful neighbor whom Celestino doesn't trust, Shirley, is suddenly determined to drag her everywhere on the island in pursuit of her her own errands. She knows Celestino wouldn't want her calling the police, and anyway, what does she have to tell them, especially in the first few days? He's a grown man.
Her outings with Shirley lead her to discover some strange seeming pranks--art clearly her husband's work, with pointed political messages, substituted for more innocuous artwork in places where the message won't be appreciated. When she visits his studio, looking for evidence of where he might be, or might have been headed, she's sure someone has been there, someone other than Celestino, but on the first visit there's nothing specific she can point to. He's apparently not in any hospital. Shirley says she saw him leaving the house at 1:30 on the day of the party and the storm--far too late to have gotten to Gloria's birthday party, an infuriating detail. She also claims to have seen him headed out of the village in an unlikely direction.
Yet as Paula continues to dig, she begins to get a sense of why Celestino is so passionate about his anti-corruption campaign, and to share his passion. Meanwhile, Celestino is, along with surviving and trying to get home, doing some hard thinking about how much he may have put Paula and Gloria in danger, without keeping Paula fully informed, if someone is indeed trying to kill him over it.
This is a thoughtful and emotional work, that kept me absorbed from beginning to end. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
But there's a major storm bearing down on the island, and Celestino has a commission to deliver, first. Paula is annoyed that he'll be late, but is well aware that they do need the money he'll be paid.
The storm hits, even worse than anticipated, and Celestino never arrives.
We see, in alternating chapters, we see Celestino's struggle to survive after a truck intentionally t-bones his car--to survive while hiding the fact that he has survived, and to get to safety--and Paula's growing worry, and search for her missing husband.
Celestino is struggling with a broken arm, a dog bite from a hungry and desperate stray dog, and clear evidence that someone is still hunting him in case he survived.
Paula is struggling with her conflicted feelings about Celestino's anti-corruption activism, her still-limited command of Spanish, the fact that Celestino's friends seem evasive, and an often helpful neighbor whom Celestino doesn't trust, Shirley, is suddenly determined to drag her everywhere on the island in pursuit of her her own errands. She knows Celestino wouldn't want her calling the police, and anyway, what does she have to tell them, especially in the first few days? He's a grown man.
Her outings with Shirley lead her to discover some strange seeming pranks--art clearly her husband's work, with pointed political messages, substituted for more innocuous artwork in places where the message won't be appreciated. When she visits his studio, looking for evidence of where he might be, or might have been headed, she's sure someone has been there, someone other than Celestino, but on the first visit there's nothing specific she can point to. He's apparently not in any hospital. Shirley says she saw him leaving the house at 1:30 on the day of the party and the storm--far too late to have gotten to Gloria's birthday party, an infuriating detail. She also claims to have seen him headed out of the village in an unlikely direction.
Yet as Paula continues to dig, she begins to get a sense of why Celestino is so passionate about his anti-corruption campaign, and to share his passion. Meanwhile, Celestino is, along with surviving and trying to get home, doing some hard thinking about how much he may have put Paula and Gloria in danger, without keeping Paula fully informed, if someone is indeed trying to kill him over it.
This is a thoughtful and emotional work, that kept me absorbed from beginning to end. Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
May 21, 2020
Why one star?
I have stopped reading this book. Why? Normally I persevere with a book no matter how bad, but in this case I have had to give up. In my opinion its dull and badly written. It reads as if the writer has a thesaurus to hand and is determined to use it. The writing style comes across as if it's been written by a 19th century female who is preserving the niceties, making the characters one dimensional. There is nothing"thrilling" about this book.
I have stopped reading this book. Why? Normally I persevere with a book no matter how bad, but in this case I have had to give up. In my opinion its dull and badly written. It reads as if the writer has a thesaurus to hand and is determined to use it. The writing style comes across as if it's been written by a 19th century female who is preserving the niceties, making the characters one dimensional. There is nothing"thrilling" about this book.
Read
June 3, 2019Review originally published here: https://joyfulantidotes.com/2019/05/1...
A Matter of Latitude shows Lanzarote in a light I’ve never seen before. First, in terms of imagery. As a tourist, I never visited the north of the island and it was interesting to read about the daily life of locals. Secondly, was through the tropical storm that occurs at the beginning of the story. The ignorant part of me never imagined that the island could have terrible weather like that, nor did I ever consider how it would affect local life.
However, it was the commentary on Lanzarote’s politics that opened my eyes the most. The author is actually a resident of the island for the insight into corruption was detailed. It backhanders politicians are taking from businessmen who want to illegally cash in from the tourism industry are nothing new in comparison to the rest of the world but are shocking just the same. The fact that much of the available funding goes to non-natives shows that politics is everywhere in the world, even on small, magical islands. Also, the heavy focus on the negative effects of tourism on the island made me consider my trips there from another point of view.
I guess you can tell from those last paragraphs that A Matter of Latitude is quite a heavy read. This doesn’t change with the fictional aspect of the book, the characters. The story of Celestino and Paula is not a typical love story. Through Paula’s chapters, we get the feeling that she doesn’t love her husband at all, that she moved to the island on a whim and things would likely have fizzled out had she not fallen pregnant. More importantly, through Paula’s telling of the story, we learn exactly why some people might be out to get Celestino, more than when Celestino tells the story himself.
I like these heavy stories so the themes of corruption and so on didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. However, I was a bit disappointed that nothing very thrilling occurs. I was expecting something a bit more dramatic to happen from reading the book’s blurb and the wonderful way the author was able to portray the bleak side of the island through her writing. Nevertheless, it taught me a lot about Lanzarote that I didn’t know before. Picking up this book wasn’t a disappointment.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A Matter of Latitude shows Lanzarote in a light I’ve never seen before. First, in terms of imagery. As a tourist, I never visited the north of the island and it was interesting to read about the daily life of locals. Secondly, was through the tropical storm that occurs at the beginning of the story. The ignorant part of me never imagined that the island could have terrible weather like that, nor did I ever consider how it would affect local life.
However, it was the commentary on Lanzarote’s politics that opened my eyes the most. The author is actually a resident of the island for the insight into corruption was detailed. It backhanders politicians are taking from businessmen who want to illegally cash in from the tourism industry are nothing new in comparison to the rest of the world but are shocking just the same. The fact that much of the available funding goes to non-natives shows that politics is everywhere in the world, even on small, magical islands. Also, the heavy focus on the negative effects of tourism on the island made me consider my trips there from another point of view.
I guess you can tell from those last paragraphs that A Matter of Latitude is quite a heavy read. This doesn’t change with the fictional aspect of the book, the characters. The story of Celestino and Paula is not a typical love story. Through Paula’s chapters, we get the feeling that she doesn’t love her husband at all, that she moved to the island on a whim and things would likely have fizzled out had she not fallen pregnant. More importantly, through Paula’s telling of the story, we learn exactly why some people might be out to get Celestino, more than when Celestino tells the story himself.
I like these heavy stories so the themes of corruption and so on didn’t take away from my enjoyment of the book. However, I was a bit disappointed that nothing very thrilling occurs. I was expecting something a bit more dramatic to happen from reading the book’s blurb and the wonderful way the author was able to portray the bleak side of the island through her writing. Nevertheless, it taught me a lot about Lanzarote that I didn’t know before. Picking up this book wasn’t a disappointment.
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2019
I really got into reading this book, I had to look up some of the phrases, bit not being bilingual wouldn't hurt you from the readers prospective. I enjoyed the little slice of culture shock and I definitely felt kinship with Celistino the starving artist and his wife Paula the tired mother. I have been both of those personas in recent years and it is enjoyable to find a book I can relate to in a world of far out fiction and sixteen-year-old protagonists. The story built up to the climax well and the characters were well thought out and just flawed enough for you to love to hate them at times. I gave this book five stars because I didn't see the plot until much later in the novel and I appreciated that mystery element, it kept me reading.
February 9, 2019
I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Will Paula find Celestino alive?
A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn is an excellent mystery. I enjoyed the plotting and the depth of the characters. However, it took me a few chapters to get into the story. I think it was just me getting used to Ms. Blackthorn’s writing style.
You’ve read the plot summary so moving on from it. There are three points of view, but I will focus on the main character, Paula.
Our Sleuth
Paula Cray Diaz is our sleuth. Although not a very good one. Paula is personable, yet doesn’t have many friends. She wears sunglasses almost always while outside as the sun’s glare bothers her eyes, which makes her seem unapproachable. Paula has a three-year-old daughter, Gloria. And it appears that since Paula has moved to the island to be with Celestino and had Gloria, her whole life has centered around her family. Her parents also moved to the island to be near her and Gloria. It felt like Paula had lost herself and was functioning just as “Gloria’s Mom” and “Celestino’s wife.” Until the day of Celestino’s disappearance.
Paula begins moving around the island looking for her husband; she truly starts to see the island as her home. I liked the way the author showed Paula's awareness of not only the surroundings but also the realization of what her life has become and her new found need for change. Paula also finally understands her husband's view of what is happening with regards to the tourism industry on the island. She remembers why she fell in love with Celestino. Absence does make the heart grow fonder. I adored that Paula was smart and remarkably well developed. I could see her clearly in my head.
The one thing that I thought was weird about Paula was that she continually worried about speaking in Spanish, but she corrected other English people’s pronunciation in Spanish.
Mystery
There are a few red herrings and incidents that our sleuth must decide if they are part of the whole or not. I loved this part; it kept the mystery going and me guessing. A few times I found myself literally on the edge of my seat. There are also a couple of murders along the way that made it even more mysterious and filled with suspense. The entire book is written in the time frame of a week which also heightens the suspense. I totally loved it.
What I liked
Shirley Mobad, she is a wonderfully eccentric character. I have known a Shirley-like-person in my life. Oh, and her over the top outfits are perfect.
I adored the setting; I have never been to the Canary Islands. However, I feel as though I had a well thought out behind the scenes tour of Lanzarote.
Corruption point of the story. I believe that it isn’t isolated to the Canary Islands, but the author does such a fantastic way of bringing the whole hidden side of tourism on the island to light.
The way the author showed art and artists fitting it into the plot along with the different styles and galleries that she introduced.
I also liked the knowledge about the original islanders and how they farmed the fields and such.
Things that I didn’t care for
Celestino was ok, but at times he rubbed me the wrong way.
Richard H. Parry is another character that drove me crazy. Seriously, I wanted to slap him across the face, tell him to grow up and go home to your wife where you belong.
4 Stars for A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn
My rating for A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn is four stars. The mystery and intrigue are outstanding. Although it took me a bit to get used to Ms. Blackthorn’s writing style, once I was there the story seemed to bound off the pages and formed such a beautiful picture. The conclusion and the character growth were so perfectly executed. I recommend this book to those with a more mature love of mysteries.
This Guest Review is for Baroness' Book Trove. Thank you for the opportunity to review this book on your site.
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn is an excellent mystery. I enjoyed the plotting and the depth of the characters. However, it took me a few chapters to get into the story. I think it was just me getting used to Ms. Blackthorn’s writing style.
You’ve read the plot summary so moving on from it. There are three points of view, but I will focus on the main character, Paula.
Our Sleuth
Paula Cray Diaz is our sleuth. Although not a very good one. Paula is personable, yet doesn’t have many friends. She wears sunglasses almost always while outside as the sun’s glare bothers her eyes, which makes her seem unapproachable. Paula has a three-year-old daughter, Gloria. And it appears that since Paula has moved to the island to be with Celestino and had Gloria, her whole life has centered around her family. Her parents also moved to the island to be near her and Gloria. It felt like Paula had lost herself and was functioning just as “Gloria’s Mom” and “Celestino’s wife.” Until the day of Celestino’s disappearance.
Paula begins moving around the island looking for her husband; she truly starts to see the island as her home. I liked the way the author showed Paula's awareness of not only the surroundings but also the realization of what her life has become and her new found need for change. Paula also finally understands her husband's view of what is happening with regards to the tourism industry on the island. She remembers why she fell in love with Celestino. Absence does make the heart grow fonder. I adored that Paula was smart and remarkably well developed. I could see her clearly in my head.
The one thing that I thought was weird about Paula was that she continually worried about speaking in Spanish, but she corrected other English people’s pronunciation in Spanish.
Mystery
There are a few red herrings and incidents that our sleuth must decide if they are part of the whole or not. I loved this part; it kept the mystery going and me guessing. A few times I found myself literally on the edge of my seat. There are also a couple of murders along the way that made it even more mysterious and filled with suspense. The entire book is written in the time frame of a week which also heightens the suspense. I totally loved it.
What I liked
Shirley Mobad, she is a wonderfully eccentric character. I have known a Shirley-like-person in my life. Oh, and her over the top outfits are perfect.
I adored the setting; I have never been to the Canary Islands. However, I feel as though I had a well thought out behind the scenes tour of Lanzarote.
Corruption point of the story. I believe that it isn’t isolated to the Canary Islands, but the author does such a fantastic way of bringing the whole hidden side of tourism on the island to light.
The way the author showed art and artists fitting it into the plot along with the different styles and galleries that she introduced.
I also liked the knowledge about the original islanders and how they farmed the fields and such.
Things that I didn’t care for
Celestino was ok, but at times he rubbed me the wrong way.
Richard H. Parry is another character that drove me crazy. Seriously, I wanted to slap him across the face, tell him to grow up and go home to your wife where you belong.
4 Stars for A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn
My rating for A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn is four stars. The mystery and intrigue are outstanding. Although it took me a bit to get used to Ms. Blackthorn’s writing style, once I was there the story seemed to bound off the pages and formed such a beautiful picture. The conclusion and the character growth were so perfectly executed. I recommend this book to those with a more mature love of mysteries.
This Guest Review is for Baroness' Book Trove. Thank you for the opportunity to review this book on your site.
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
May 29, 2019
This steadily paced crime thriller, set on the Spanish island of Lanzarote, has three narrators:
The majority of the book is written from Paula Diaz's point of view. Paula is an English ex-pat, now living in Haria with her husband, local man Celestino, and the three-year-old daughter, Gloria. Paula's parents have also moved to the island to be near their family. Gloria spends most of the book staying with her Grandparents while Paula searches for Celestino, digs around for clues to his disappearance, and is cleverly distracted by Shirley, another ex-pat.
We also spend time with Celestino as he attempts to evade his would-be murderer, tries to avoid being attacked by a wild dog, and struggles to return home.
The third narrator writes about Richard, an author and another ex-pat, as he goes on his reluctant adventures on the island in pursuit of a plot and setting for his new book.
A Matter of Latitude is a mystery that also highlights the corruption and the destructive influence of tourism on the small island. The writing captures the characters relationships to each other and the idyllic setting of Lanzarote. An interesting read that kept me guessing.
The majority of the book is written from Paula Diaz's point of view. Paula is an English ex-pat, now living in Haria with her husband, local man Celestino, and the three-year-old daughter, Gloria. Paula's parents have also moved to the island to be near their family. Gloria spends most of the book staying with her Grandparents while Paula searches for Celestino, digs around for clues to his disappearance, and is cleverly distracted by Shirley, another ex-pat.
We also spend time with Celestino as he attempts to evade his would-be murderer, tries to avoid being attacked by a wild dog, and struggles to return home.
The third narrator writes about Richard, an author and another ex-pat, as he goes on his reluctant adventures on the island in pursuit of a plot and setting for his new book.
A Matter of Latitude is a mystery that also highlights the corruption and the destructive influence of tourism on the small island. The writing captures the characters relationships to each other and the idyllic setting of Lanzarote. An interesting read that kept me guessing.
March 27, 2019
*I received a free copy of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
This is a slow-paced thriller, which is less focused on the mystery and danger, and instead revolves around the particulars of the unique setting, and the exploration of character relationships with each other and with the island they live on.
Lanzarote is so prominent in the text that it is almost the main character. In addition to capturing the atmosphere and aesthetic of the land, the author is exploring ideas of nation and culture. Lanzarote’s infrastructure and economy are turning increasingly to tourism and – to the great anger of Celestino – the resultant culture involves a liberal greasing of the political cogs, leaving locals, their history and environment shunted to the sidelines spinning their wheels helplessly.
The inability for Celestino (and his friends in the resistance) to derail these shady dealings on their own is mirrored in Paula’s struggle to retain focus on her husband’s disappearance in the face of distractions from other ex-pats (each with their own self-centred, blinkered goal) and a flurry of peripheral events that keep her in a constant state of helpless inaction. Direct actions that seem logical to the reader are dismissed by Paula as she instead flits from person to person, place to place, trying to grasp a meaning from the threads dangled before her.
But then, the reader has inside information that isn’t available to Paula. We know where her husband is. We also know how he is, what happened to him, and some of why. The story is told mainly from Paula’s perspective as she searches, but we also get intermittent chapters from Celestino as he struggles to survive and return.
Whilst there is a thriller/mystery element to this story, it is not the main theme, which is the despoiling of local environment and ecology by the tourism trade, but also the richness and variety of Lanzarote, place and people. For those who enjoy their stories drenched in a strong sense of setting and culture, this is a fascinating insight into what lies behind the scenes of the ‘tourist trap’.
I was on my way to the party when the impact occurred.
That stretch of road is narrow and flanked by dry stone walls. Drivers shouldn’t put their foot down, but enjoying the lack of hairpin bends, they do. I didn’t see the vehicle that ran me off the road at the intersection and slammed my car into a wall. No, I definitely didn’t see it coming.
– Isobel Blackthorn, A Matter of Latitude
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
This is a slow-paced thriller, which is less focused on the mystery and danger, and instead revolves around the particulars of the unique setting, and the exploration of character relationships with each other and with the island they live on.
Lanzarote is so prominent in the text that it is almost the main character. In addition to capturing the atmosphere and aesthetic of the land, the author is exploring ideas of nation and culture. Lanzarote’s infrastructure and economy are turning increasingly to tourism and – to the great anger of Celestino – the resultant culture involves a liberal greasing of the political cogs, leaving locals, their history and environment shunted to the sidelines spinning their wheels helplessly.
The inability for Celestino (and his friends in the resistance) to derail these shady dealings on their own is mirrored in Paula’s struggle to retain focus on her husband’s disappearance in the face of distractions from other ex-pats (each with their own self-centred, blinkered goal) and a flurry of peripheral events that keep her in a constant state of helpless inaction. Direct actions that seem logical to the reader are dismissed by Paula as she instead flits from person to person, place to place, trying to grasp a meaning from the threads dangled before her.
But then, the reader has inside information that isn’t available to Paula. We know where her husband is. We also know how he is, what happened to him, and some of why. The story is told mainly from Paula’s perspective as she searches, but we also get intermittent chapters from Celestino as he struggles to survive and return.
Whilst there is a thriller/mystery element to this story, it is not the main theme, which is the despoiling of local environment and ecology by the tourism trade, but also the richness and variety of Lanzarote, place and people. For those who enjoy their stories drenched in a strong sense of setting and culture, this is a fascinating insight into what lies behind the scenes of the ‘tourist trap’.
I was on my way to the party when the impact occurred.
That stretch of road is narrow and flanked by dry stone walls. Drivers shouldn’t put their foot down, but enjoying the lack of hairpin bends, they do. I didn’t see the vehicle that ran me off the road at the intersection and slammed my car into a wall. No, I definitely didn’t see it coming.
– Isobel Blackthorn, A Matter of Latitude
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
April 28, 2019
A great mystery centred on corruption. Most enjoyable.
Review to follow for blog tour May 16
Review to follow for blog tour May 16
July 25, 2019
Well wasn’t this a nice intense little journey! Celestino trying to survive after a hit and run and Paula trying to find Celestino! I did not know what would happen next! The mystery in this book holds you throughout the book, as we delve into some shady parts of politics, always wanting Paula and Celestino to reach other again.
It is interesting to see the struggle of making a life as an ex-pat, on this gorgeous island, something that may still affect me in the future, so this lifestyle was something I was interested in learning more about. The struggle of not being accepted is a fear I think most people have and so to be abroad with a missing husband is doubly scary!
You are constantly questioning everyone in The Matter of Latitude, who would run Celestino off the road? Why? Is it someone in their circle of friends? Or is it someone else to fear?
This is not a fast-paced thriller, this is a nice slow burning, building on the landscape, on the people, ramping up the mystery and the intensity of the main plot. We are given flashbacks to the past to build the bigger picture to how they got themselves into the situation they are currently in, again solidifying the characters and building on them.
I have previously enjoyed Clarissa’s Warning, also set in Lanzarote, and Isobel’s writing where the scenery and backdrop take a life of their own. This was no different, the imagery used could have you sitting in the sun, soaking the ray of Lanzarote. I wish I was, less the hit and run.
It is interesting to see the struggle of making a life as an ex-pat, on this gorgeous island, something that may still affect me in the future, so this lifestyle was something I was interested in learning more about. The struggle of not being accepted is a fear I think most people have and so to be abroad with a missing husband is doubly scary!
You are constantly questioning everyone in The Matter of Latitude, who would run Celestino off the road? Why? Is it someone in their circle of friends? Or is it someone else to fear?
This is not a fast-paced thriller, this is a nice slow burning, building on the landscape, on the people, ramping up the mystery and the intensity of the main plot. We are given flashbacks to the past to build the bigger picture to how they got themselves into the situation they are currently in, again solidifying the characters and building on them.
I have previously enjoyed Clarissa’s Warning, also set in Lanzarote, and Isobel’s writing where the scenery and backdrop take a life of their own. This was no different, the imagery used could have you sitting in the sun, soaking the ray of Lanzarote. I wish I was, less the hit and run.
May 28, 2019
I really enjoyed the way Blackthorn combined suspense with an authentic feel for the surroundings and the native inhabitants. The struggle of ex-pats to fit in, despite loving the country they have adopted. You can live in a foreign country, speak the language fluently, adapt to the country and new culture, and yet many decades after living there still be considered an outsider or the foreign person.
Paula does something I found quite pedantic, despite admitting to not being fluent enough in the new language to be hired in the industry she trained in, she keeps correcting others. Be fluent - then correct others.
The story starts with the attempt on Celestino's life, and I will admit for a moment I thought I was in a post-apocalyptic plot. The beginning of the book really set the stage, even if it threw me for a minute. Meanwhile his wife and child are waiting for him to turn up, and when he doesn't Paula starts to investigate his disappearance.
I thought the subtle pressure pot plot of the paintings was an extremely interesting way to go about this storyline. The guilty know exactly what is staring them in the face, hence the reactions, but it takes a while for the meaning of the pictures to sink in for others.
At the heart of this plot is the corruption that allows companies and people to profit off the destruction of our environment, but instead of going for other more well-known industries who are guilty of this, the author shows us how corrupt works at a lower level.
The kind the working man can see and is dragged into, albeit inadvertently. The real estate industry is highly exposed to corruption. It is a way to launder money and evade taxes, and on a more fundamental level it exposes the environment and thus humans, to an even greater risk. When land, fields, property and houses are gained by fraudulent means and sold on to developers.
Bought under false pretences, with the sellers pass on property on the basis of it not ruining or the buyers changing the environment. To do so these buyers have to be working hand in hand with the local and sometimes national government departments to get planning permissions. The corruption flows deep and steady.
It's an environmental thriller about corruption combined with the eccentricities of expats.
*I received a courtesy copy*
Paula does something I found quite pedantic, despite admitting to not being fluent enough in the new language to be hired in the industry she trained in, she keeps correcting others. Be fluent - then correct others.
The story starts with the attempt on Celestino's life, and I will admit for a moment I thought I was in a post-apocalyptic plot. The beginning of the book really set the stage, even if it threw me for a minute. Meanwhile his wife and child are waiting for him to turn up, and when he doesn't Paula starts to investigate his disappearance.
I thought the subtle pressure pot plot of the paintings was an extremely interesting way to go about this storyline. The guilty know exactly what is staring them in the face, hence the reactions, but it takes a while for the meaning of the pictures to sink in for others.
At the heart of this plot is the corruption that allows companies and people to profit off the destruction of our environment, but instead of going for other more well-known industries who are guilty of this, the author shows us how corrupt works at a lower level.
The kind the working man can see and is dragged into, albeit inadvertently. The real estate industry is highly exposed to corruption. It is a way to launder money and evade taxes, and on a more fundamental level it exposes the environment and thus humans, to an even greater risk. When land, fields, property and houses are gained by fraudulent means and sold on to developers.
Bought under false pretences, with the sellers pass on property on the basis of it not ruining or the buyers changing the environment. To do so these buyers have to be working hand in hand with the local and sometimes national government departments to get planning permissions. The corruption flows deep and steady.
It's an environmental thriller about corruption combined with the eccentricities of expats.
*I received a courtesy copy*
May 26, 2019
Not only a mystery, but a great drama about corruption set in a lovely island.
Just as the first novel Clarissa’s Warning I read by Isabel Blackthorne, I had to get used to her slowly and detailed writing style. After some time I did love the story again, because the author is not just telling a tale. In her special way she has woven some suspense in a fantastic narration about relationships, globalisation and losing people.
A big part is Paula who is devestately searching for her husband Celestino after he disappeared at the birthday party of their daughter. At some time we see Celestino struggling to survive because his passion for the anti- corruption organisation has set him and even his family on danger.
This story is thoughtful and emotional and is telling about themes like corruption, ecology and the characters have depth and as always the atmospheric setting is beautiful.
Yes, I know maybe just like me, you have to take your time to come in the book, but when I was touched I discovered a beautiful and intriguing story.
https://indeboekenkast.wordpress.com/...
Just as the first novel Clarissa’s Warning I read by Isabel Blackthorne, I had to get used to her slowly and detailed writing style. After some time I did love the story again, because the author is not just telling a tale. In her special way she has woven some suspense in a fantastic narration about relationships, globalisation and losing people.
A big part is Paula who is devestately searching for her husband Celestino after he disappeared at the birthday party of their daughter. At some time we see Celestino struggling to survive because his passion for the anti- corruption organisation has set him and even his family on danger.
This story is thoughtful and emotional and is telling about themes like corruption, ecology and the characters have depth and as always the atmospheric setting is beautiful.
Yes, I know maybe just like me, you have to take your time to come in the book, but when I was touched I discovered a beautiful and intriguing story.
https://indeboekenkast.wordpress.com/...
June 11, 2022
Beginning with an accident, that was no accident, readers are taken into a mystery as Paula searches for her husband who was the person in the not really an accident, accident. Lots of not quite on the up and up dealings add to the intrigue of this mystery novel. This is a well written book that was a quick, but intense read.
May 18, 2019
Paula is getting ready for her daughters third birthday when her husband Celestino is called out on a delivery. Although she would rather have him at the party she does realize how important the money from this delivery to them. But when he doesn’t show up to the party she becomes worried. She doesn’t really know how to report Celestino to the police but she knows something is wrong.
Celestino is an anti-corruption activist and when he is t-boned on his delivery he just knows that someone is trying to kill him. Now it’s a race against time and the killer for Celestino to get to safety and to keep Paula and their daughter safe. He is having some serious regrets about not telling Paula how dangerous things really are.
Paula is still struggling with Spanish and feels lost at times on Lanzarote. She just knew that something had happened to Celestino and I felt for her trying to find him. At the same time I was kept on the edge of my seat as Celestino was fighting to keep out of the hands of the murderer. I was wrapped up in him getting home in time to protect his family.
I read and really enjoyed Clarissa’s warning and was very excited to see what Isobel Blacktorn would come up with next. I was ensnared by this mystery and kept guessing until the very end. I really enjoy Isobel’s books and can’t wait to dig into another one soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Celestino is an anti-corruption activist and when he is t-boned on his delivery he just knows that someone is trying to kill him. Now it’s a race against time and the killer for Celestino to get to safety and to keep Paula and their daughter safe. He is having some serious regrets about not telling Paula how dangerous things really are.
Paula is still struggling with Spanish and feels lost at times on Lanzarote. She just knew that something had happened to Celestino and I felt for her trying to find him. At the same time I was kept on the edge of my seat as Celestino was fighting to keep out of the hands of the murderer. I was wrapped up in him getting home in time to protect his family.
I read and really enjoyed Clarissa’s warning and was very excited to see what Isobel Blacktorn would come up with next. I was ensnared by this mystery and kept guessing until the very end. I really enjoy Isobel’s books and can’t wait to dig into another one soon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
May 22, 2019
This book in set in Lanzarote and the author paints a beautiful description of the island. I found the local’s attitude to tourism fascinating, their quiet little island taken over all in the name of money. Their way of life taken over by the commercial sector and the economical ramifications of this are explored by the conversations Paula has with Bill and Celestino.
The story is mainly told from Paula’s point of view as she tries to find Celestino after he fails to come home for their daughter’s birthday party. As she continues her search, we find out about their history as a couple. Unknown to Paula, Celestino is trying to find his way home.
The story is mainly told from Paula’s point of view as she tries to find Celestino after he fails to come home for their daughter’s birthday party. As she continues her search, we find out about their history as a couple. Unknown to Paula, Celestino is trying to find his way home.
May 16, 2019
Thank you to the Author and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
So this is the second book that I have read from Isobel Blackthorn and I still can’t decide which book I liked best! This was a really intriguing mystery/thriller and while quite slow paced it kept you hooked from the beginning. One thing I loved about ‘Clarissa’s Warning’ was that the author does a really great job of bringing you in to the surroundings and it was no different with this book. I really felt as if I was there which helped me really get into the story.
The character development for both Paula and Celestino was great and I really enjoyed watching it progress as the book did. There was a few great twists and turns and I was really excited to see how it ended. Will most definitely be keeping my eye out for the next Isobel Blackthorn book!
Rating: 4.5/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
So this is the second book that I have read from Isobel Blackthorn and I still can’t decide which book I liked best! This was a really intriguing mystery/thriller and while quite slow paced it kept you hooked from the beginning. One thing I loved about ‘Clarissa’s Warning’ was that the author does a really great job of bringing you in to the surroundings and it was no different with this book. I really felt as if I was there which helped me really get into the story.
The character development for both Paula and Celestino was great and I really enjoyed watching it progress as the book did. There was a few great twists and turns and I was really excited to see how it ended. Will most definitely be keeping my eye out for the next Isobel Blackthorn book!
Rating: 4.5/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
May 10, 2019
Matter of Latitude is a slow-paced mystery thriller, with wonderful descriptions of the idyllic setting in Lanzarote…capturing the atmosphere and culture of the island.
This covers the cost of tourism on the economy and the corruption on the political side…which means Celestino wants to expose these perpetrators, but then he is injured in an accident and disappears…leaving Paula to search, all the while the reader knows what has happened ……
I felt the story was really about the destructive nature of tourism, it’s not all suncream and sangria…but it’s effect on the local culture and the environment and while there is a thriller element there’s much more to the story….a fascinating read with a strong sense of culture….
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
This covers the cost of tourism on the economy and the corruption on the political side…which means Celestino wants to expose these perpetrators, but then he is injured in an accident and disappears…leaving Paula to search, all the while the reader knows what has happened ……
I felt the story was really about the destructive nature of tourism, it’s not all suncream and sangria…but it’s effect on the local culture and the environment and while there is a thriller element there’s much more to the story….a fascinating read with a strong sense of culture….
Thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to participate in this blog tour and for the promotional materials and a free copy of the ebook. This is my honest, unbiased review.
May 9, 2019
Art, corruption and murder on Lanzarotte. More on the blog tour
June 3, 2019
Paula's husband Celestino goes missing on the day he should be attending his daughter's birthday party, in the midst of a violent storm. Has he had a car accident? Or is it something to do with his fight against corruption on the island?
Set on the island of Lanzarote, this intriguing mystery by Isobel Blackthorn questions the balance of power between ordinary locals and those rich enough to mould the world in ways that increase their own wealth. What role does tourism play in altering the normal rules of life for everyday people in some of the world's most striking and beautiful locations? These questions lie at the foundation of what is on one level a breathless mystery in an exotic place.
Paula is an Englishwoman who given up her ordinary life for the love of artist and anti-corruption believer Celestino. Unable to involve the police for fear that Celistino's anti-establishment activities may have something to dimwit his disappearance, Paula must do her own sleuthing, variously aided and hampered by a cast of fascinating characters. But who is truly a friend, and who a secret enemy?
As the bodies begin to appear and there is no sign of Celestino, this reader at least was finding it hard to decide who the true villain is ... the red herrings and the cast of unusual characters make this a fascinating puzzle for lovers of crime mysteries. Add in lots of brilliant descriptions of the island, quite a feast of food, and sensitively observed humanity, and you have a very enjoyable and immersive read.
That Shirley! And that Richard! Wonderful creations.
Told in alternating first person by both Paula and Celestino, the novel's structure allows the reader heightened senses of both danger and relief. We know that Celestino is alive - at least for now - while Paula waves worries anxiously. But we also know the Celestino is in deadly danger, at times when Paula is feeling angry with him for not contacting her. This makes for an interesting experience, a bit like the one Paula is going through herself.
Highly recommended.
Set on the island of Lanzarote, this intriguing mystery by Isobel Blackthorn questions the balance of power between ordinary locals and those rich enough to mould the world in ways that increase their own wealth. What role does tourism play in altering the normal rules of life for everyday people in some of the world's most striking and beautiful locations? These questions lie at the foundation of what is on one level a breathless mystery in an exotic place.
Paula is an Englishwoman who given up her ordinary life for the love of artist and anti-corruption believer Celestino. Unable to involve the police for fear that Celistino's anti-establishment activities may have something to dimwit his disappearance, Paula must do her own sleuthing, variously aided and hampered by a cast of fascinating characters. But who is truly a friend, and who a secret enemy?
As the bodies begin to appear and there is no sign of Celestino, this reader at least was finding it hard to decide who the true villain is ... the red herrings and the cast of unusual characters make this a fascinating puzzle for lovers of crime mysteries. Add in lots of brilliant descriptions of the island, quite a feast of food, and sensitively observed humanity, and you have a very enjoyable and immersive read.
That Shirley! And that Richard! Wonderful creations.
Told in alternating first person by both Paula and Celestino, the novel's structure allows the reader heightened senses of both danger and relief. We know that Celestino is alive - at least for now - while Paula waves worries anxiously. But we also know the Celestino is in deadly danger, at times when Paula is feeling angry with him for not contacting her. This makes for an interesting experience, a bit like the one Paula is going through herself.
Highly recommended.
October 17, 2020
A Matter of Latitude
The reader is thrown right into the action from the very first page, when Celestino, a native of the Island of Lanzarote, is driven off the road. He rightly assumes that this is because of his involvement in trying to expose the corrupt business dealings that exist on the island.
As he lays low, attempts to survive, and tries to recover from his injuries, his English wife, Paula struggles to discover where he is and what has happened to him.
Shirley, a neighbour, takes Paula under her wing and whisks her around the island, where evidence of Celestino’s involvement in uncovering the corruption seem to pop up wherever Paula is taken. I found myself disliking Shirley and not trusting her. However, as all the new characters were introduced, I became as unsure as Paula in regards to who was involved in the corruption and who could be trusted.
This is the third book I have read by this talented author and, as I knew I would, I really enjoyed this one. Her writing is wonderfully descriptive which brings the island alive. As the story progressed, I was itching for Celestino to get back home to put poor Paula out of her misery. By the end of the book, all the loose ends and gentle hints finally make sense as everything is tied together
A good read.
The reader is thrown right into the action from the very first page, when Celestino, a native of the Island of Lanzarote, is driven off the road. He rightly assumes that this is because of his involvement in trying to expose the corrupt business dealings that exist on the island.
As he lays low, attempts to survive, and tries to recover from his injuries, his English wife, Paula struggles to discover where he is and what has happened to him.
Shirley, a neighbour, takes Paula under her wing and whisks her around the island, where evidence of Celestino’s involvement in uncovering the corruption seem to pop up wherever Paula is taken. I found myself disliking Shirley and not trusting her. However, as all the new characters were introduced, I became as unsure as Paula in regards to who was involved in the corruption and who could be trusted.
This is the third book I have read by this talented author and, as I knew I would, I really enjoyed this one. Her writing is wonderfully descriptive which brings the island alive. As the story progressed, I was itching for Celestino to get back home to put poor Paula out of her misery. By the end of the book, all the loose ends and gentle hints finally make sense as everything is tied together
A good read.
March 14, 2019
There is an old saying in writing "Show don't tell" and whilst I found this book by Isobel Blackthorn well-structured it simply didn't engage me, which is great shame because the lady can write. There are some quite lovely passages where the prose shimmers and lifts the story but I wish this clearly gifted author had "shown" me the landscape and the emotional terrain far more often. The characters are well-enough drawn but not particularly engaging and for the same reason. Their concerns are "told" rather than "shown". And yet it starts well enough with a storm and a wounded man barricading himself into a seemingly abandoned shack with a mad dog howling outside. But the subsequent chapters were filled with the rather ho-hum business of a child's birthday party and frankly, I lost interest. A pity, because as I said this lady can write and perhaps all the book needed was a strenuous edit to make it shine.
Read
February 3, 2019Review to follow 4/1
May 19, 2019
Intriguing premise with strong suspense
A little hard to follow the changes in POV since all the characters sound alike but once I got into the flow, it was an entertaining story
A little hard to follow the changes in POV since all the characters sound alike but once I got into the flow, it was an entertaining story
July 5, 2023
Forced off the road during a storm, Celestino finds himself dealing with injuries and needing to stay hidden. Though he is an artist, Celestino is also known for being an activist with his views concerning corruption in Lanzarote casting him as a target. Paula, his wife, frantic over her husband's disappearance, spends her days trying to discover his whereabouts.
The pacing of this story was much too slow for my liking. Pages upon pages were devoted to diatribes on the evils of tourism. While some fair arguments were made, they overwhelmed the mystery and felt out of place. A sub-plot regarding a writer looking for guidance with his latest story also impeded the book's progress. The wife's motivations continually shifted, causing me to question her actual desires. The shift in point-of-view broke the stream of consciousness. The last chapter had some strange switches that left me confused and struggling to follow along. Finally, at the end of the story, a multitude of loose ends was left unaddressed. I was disappointed because the premise and the first chapter were stellar. I doubt that I will move on with this series.
The pacing of this story was much too slow for my liking. Pages upon pages were devoted to diatribes on the evils of tourism. While some fair arguments were made, they overwhelmed the mystery and felt out of place. A sub-plot regarding a writer looking for guidance with his latest story also impeded the book's progress. The wife's motivations continually shifted, causing me to question her actual desires. The shift in point-of-view broke the stream of consciousness. The last chapter had some strange switches that left me confused and struggling to follow along. Finally, at the end of the story, a multitude of loose ends was left unaddressed. I was disappointed because the premise and the first chapter were stellar. I doubt that I will move on with this series.
April 24, 2022
Brilliant Storytelling!
What a magnificent story in A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn. I have to admit that Blackthorn is one of my favorite authors, and I plan on reading everything she has written. I've read The Drago Tree, and some of her other works, and now, here is the first book in the Canary Islands Mysteries. It lives up to its name, as Blackthorn brings us to Lanzarote, and gives the reader the sense of the island, and all its beauty and wonder. If you aren't familiar with Lanzarote, it's Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands in Spain. Lanzarote eastern most of the Canary Islands, in the North Atlantic Ocean. It also has craters where lava flows. So, I learned a bit about the Canary Islands, and I even looked up on the internet for pictures, and it was just how the author described it. What a wonderful story "shower." The story revolves around a wounded Celestino, who is hiding out, and his wife, Paula who is trying to find him. It turns into a mysterious story with danger, chaos, and the fight for survival and answers. Celestino is not the only one in danger. It’s one of those embraceable stories. It’s definitely un-put-downable! It is always an honor to read this author's books. The story brings the reader on a superb journey. This is a magnificent story that kept this reader turning the pages. A definite attention-grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. The characterizations are engrossing and dynamic. I just love, love, love this story. A Matter of Latitude is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
What a magnificent story in A Matter of Latitude by Isobel Blackthorn. I have to admit that Blackthorn is one of my favorite authors, and I plan on reading everything she has written. I've read The Drago Tree, and some of her other works, and now, here is the first book in the Canary Islands Mysteries. It lives up to its name, as Blackthorn brings us to Lanzarote, and gives the reader the sense of the island, and all its beauty and wonder. If you aren't familiar with Lanzarote, it's Lanzarote, in the Canary Islands in Spain. Lanzarote eastern most of the Canary Islands, in the North Atlantic Ocean. It also has craters where lava flows. So, I learned a bit about the Canary Islands, and I even looked up on the internet for pictures, and it was just how the author described it. What a wonderful story "shower." The story revolves around a wounded Celestino, who is hiding out, and his wife, Paula who is trying to find him. It turns into a mysterious story with danger, chaos, and the fight for survival and answers. Celestino is not the only one in danger. It’s one of those embraceable stories. It’s definitely un-put-downable! It is always an honor to read this author's books. The story brings the reader on a superb journey. This is a magnificent story that kept this reader turning the pages. A definite attention-grabber, so much I couldn't put it down. Both thrilling and intriguing, all the way to the end. The characterizations are engrossing and dynamic. I just love, love, love this story. A Matter of Latitude is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews