Rob Thompson
In this fascinating book, journalist and author Otto English deconstructs ten great lies from history.
He shows how our present continues to be manipulated by the fabrications of the past. By the end the reader realises that how so much of what we take to be historical fact is, in fact, fiction.
A fun, authoritative and alternative history of the world that exposes some of the biggest lies ever told. And how they've been used over time.
In Paris, an elderly man is assassinated as he takes his morning walk. Danny discovers a world where death is dispensed by the highest bidder and individuals will betray anybody if the price is right.
This was the first (ex SAS soldier) Chris Ryan book that I had read. I suspected before I started that it would be like an Andy McNab thriller. And I wasn't far wrong. It was fast paced and it manages to grip you right from the first page. The main difference I found between Ryan and McNab was Ryan increased the amount of crude graphic violence. Ryan's villains was also nastier and he ramped up weapon details and military tactics too. I never thought I would say this, but McNab was more of a literary read. In fact, at times Masters of War reads like a video game in book form. But saying that , I suspect there is a large dose of an uncomfortable truth in this tale. I'm sure governments must use ‘private military contractors' aka mercenaries to do their off the record jobs?
The title of the book itself refers to the politicians and high ranking officials who send soldiers into battle and let them take all the risks. SAS soldier Danny Black leads a small team accompanying an MI6 agent in in war-torn Syria. The depiction of the daily atrocities is uncomfortable, and very detailed. The mission (or so it seems) it to contact the rebel forces. As we learn the real reason for Black being there, things quickly turn pear-shaped.
My one criticism is that some of the characterisation is a little lazy. Upper class MI6 operatives have generic posh names: Oliver Carrington and Hugo Buckingham. Is MI6 really only staffed by students of Harrow or Eton? And who refer to people as ‘old sport'? But to be fair Ryan manages to portray a well rounded, strong female character, Médecins Sans Frontières doctor, Clara Macleod. He also tries to flesh out most characters, so you care about them when they inevitably die.
All in all, if you want a gory, action-packed thriller with lots of surprises then you can't go wrong with this. A decent novel from author who has first-hand experience of the reality of war. Who knows the corrupt greed of those looking to profit from it.
Colin Dexter's “The Dead of Jericho” is the fifth installment in the Inspector Morse series, offering readers another glimpse into the world of the curmudgeonly Oxford detective. While the book has its merits, it falls short of being truly exceptional.
The story begins with Morse attending a party where he meets the attractive Anne Scott. Months later, Anne is found dead in her home in Jericho, a suburb of Oxford. Morse, despite not being assigned to the case, can't resist involving himself in the investigation. This premise sets up an intriguing mystery that should keep readers engaged.
Dexter's writing style is, as always, erudite and filled with literary allusions that will please those who enjoy a more intellectual approach to crime fiction. His depiction of Oxford and its environs is vivid and atmospheric, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama.
However, the pacing of the novel can be frustratingly slow at times. Dexter tends to meander, taking detours into Morse's personal life and thoughts that, while character-building, often distract from the central mystery. Some readers may find these diversions enriching, while others might see them as unnecessary padding.
The mystery itself is complex, perhaps overly so. While this complexity might appeal to puzzle enthusiasts, it can also make the plot feel convoluted and hard to follow at times. The resolution, when it comes, feels somewhat anticlimactic given the build-up.
Morse himself remains an interesting character, with his crossword puzzles, love of Wagner, and penchant for real ale. His relationship with the long-suffering Sergeant Lewis continues to be a highlight, providing moments of levity and contrast. However, Morse's attitudes towards women, while perhaps reflective of the time the book was written, may strike modern readers as outdated and occasionally off-putting.
In conclusion, “The Dead of Jericho” is a solid entry in the Morse series, but not a standout. It will likely satisfy fans of Dexter's work and those who enjoy traditional British detective fiction. However, newcomers to the series might be better served starting with earlier, more tightly plotted installments. The book's strengths lie in its sense of place and character development, but these are somewhat undermined by pacing issues and an overly complicated plot.
For Morse aficionados, it's worth a read, but casual mystery fans might find it a bit of a slog. Hence, a middle-of-the-road three stars seems appropriate for this competent but not exceptional detective novel.
When I first picked up Oliver Franklin-Wallis' “Wasteland: The Secret World of Waste and the Urgent Search for a Cleaner Future,” I'll admit I was expecting a dense, depressing read about overflowing landfills and plastic-filled oceans. Important stuff, sure, but not necessarily a page-turner. Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong.
Franklin-Wallis has a gift for bringing urgent global issues vividly to life through masterful storytelling and on-the-ground reporting. He quite literally takes readers through mountains of trash and rivers of sewage, introducing us to the remarkable people fighting on the front lines of the waste crisis in some of the most polluted places on Earth. From garbage “pickers” scraping to survive inside New Delhi's landfills to engineers battling blocked sewers in London, these individuals put a human face on the stark statistics.
And those statistics are stark. Through interviews with experts across the waste management spectrum, Franklin-Wallis meticulously pieces together the full picture of where our massive volumes of waste end up. Spoiler alert: it's often dumped right back on vulnerable communities or simply allowed to accumulate in toxic perpetuity. He reveals the uncomfortable truth that even well-intentioned environmental solutions can backfire, like reusable tote bags requiring more resources to produce than disposable plastic.
While the scale of the problem is decidedly grim, the book balances this with inspiring stories of activists and legislators driving change. But Franklin-Wallis routinely checks his own optimism against the harsh reality that most “solutions” just create new issues down the line. He ultimately concludes the root of the trash dilemma lies with overproduction and overconsumption of goods. His proposed fix is as simple as it is unlikely to occur: we all just need to buy less stuff.
Franklin-Wallis knows this centralized message provides little satisfaction. But paired with the colorful narratives about those creatively tackling waste in their communities, “Wasteland” delivers an abundance of food for thought. The book succeeds in bringing an amorphous global crisis down to the personal level, revealing the uncomfortable role we each play in the waste cycle while empowering readers to become part of the solution.
About the book: The Lucky Years is your guide to understanding the cutting-edge developments in medical science which are addressing society's most pressing health problems. While advances in genetics may seem to be the key to curing cancer, infertility and aging. This book shows that simple, sensible health strategies may more effectively improve the health and happiness of the world's population.
About the author: Dr. David B. Agus is a medical doctor and engineer, known as one of America's leading oncologists. He has founded a number of medical companies focused on offering personalized medication. He is also the author of other books such as The End of Illness and A Short Guide to a Long Life.
My highlights:
Genetics may hold the key to explaining why some people seem “younger” than their real age. Researchers at Boston University, for example, have come up with an online calculator that helps you determine your heart's biological age by answering a few questions
Genetics can help researchers work out which parts of human DNA are responsible for extending the biological youth of our bodies
Preventative medicine is both smart and sustainable, and too often ignored in Western culture. Preventative actions, in contrast, can keep a body healthy without the constant intake of drugs. In the end, however, each person must take the time to work out which solutions suit them best. Doctors and scientists thus are limited to making blanket statements about health.
Society often fails to recognize when weight issues become a problem, for both adults and children. 67 percent of American people are overweight – an astonishing statistic.Here's another data point that's even more surprising: just 36 percent of overweight people recognize that they are indeed overweight
Regular exercise can add years to your lifespan, but many people just can't or won't get off the couch. If you bump your walking to 7.5 hours per week, you can expect to add 4.5 years to your lifespan!The study also found that by actively exercising for at least two hours each week and maintaining a healthy weight, people can raise their life expectancy by as much as seven years.
Athletes can't perform at their peak without a good night's sleep. It turns out that neither can you. Individuals who sleep less than six hours each night are four times more likely to catch a cold compared to people who sleep eight hours.
Empireworld: How British Imperialism Has Shaped the Globe is Sathnam Sanghera's follow-up to his previous book Empireland, which examined the impacts of British imperialism on modern Britain. In Empireworld, Sanghera expands his analysis to assess the global legacy of the British Empire. However, while this is an important subject, Empireworld ultimately proves to be a disappointing and overly gloomy read.
The book sets out to systematically document the widespread and long-lasting effects of British colonial rule across the world. Sanghera succeeds in comprehensively cataloging the far-reaching political, economic, and social repercussions of imperialism in a wide range of former colonies in Africa, Asia, and the Americas. However, the book adopts an almost encyclopedic approach, with Sanghera meticulously detailing one grim consequence after another in dispassionate prose. The result is a dense, dry text lacking narrative flow or nuance.
Moreover, Sanghera's perspective remains stubbornly pessimistic, focused on oppression, exploitation, and conflict. While these are undeniably part of the imperial legacy, there are only token acknowledgements of positive developments and progress in former colonies over the past decades. This gives the book a monotonous, depressing tone that is exhausting to get through.
After completing Empireland, Sanghera's previous book on the same topic, I found reading the thematically similar Empireworld to be an exercise in redundancy. Empireland already thoroughly convinced me of the damaging and deep-rooted impacts of British imperialism on our world. Unfortunately, Empireworld covers little new ground, just extending this bleak analysis globally while losing much of the personality that made its predecessor more engaging.
In examining such a far-reaching and multifaceted historical phenomenon, a diversity of perspectives and more nuanced analysis would have been welcome. While this book succeeds in comprehensively chronicling the adverse impacts of British imperialism worldwide, its gloomy tone and repetitive themes make it a tiring, 2-star read. I would recommend Empireworld only to readers with a strong existing interest in the topic and high tolerance for despondent historical narratives. For most, Sanghera's previous book Empireland will provide sufficient illumination of this dark chapter in history.
Iain Dale's survey of the 55 Prime Ministers who have occupied the post since Sir Robert Walpole in 1721 offers a wealth of insights into three centuries of Westminster politics. But it lacks any unifying vision or analytical edge
Each of our 55 PMs, starting with Sir Robert Walpole, is granted a chapter, each written by a different hand. Not all the writers are scintillating. In fact, the podcast where the authors of the essays discuss their PMs is much more interesting (and its free).
Stephan Talty's fast-paced account of how Herbert Cukurs was brought to justice by Mossad operatives in 1965. Cukurs was a member of the Arajs Kommando. Involved in the mass murder of Latvian Jews as part of the Holocaust, he never stood trial. This was despite many eyewitness accounts linking him to war crimes.
Talty mines archival records for vivid details. Then tracks the complexities of Mossad's undercover mission with flair. The result is a captivating and gruesome real-life spy thriller. This is as gripping as any novel. The details of Cukurs' horrific crimes are hard to read. But the outcome is both moving and uplifting. His demise helped to bring other culprits of genocide to justice.
There will always be vile men, just as there will always be men of kindness and compassion...
Following on from the demon story created in a previous Drenai novel, Winter Warriors, Hero in the Shadows once more plunges heroes against magic. Hero in the Shadows, published in 2000, is a novel by British fantasy writer David Gemmell. It is the final tale featuring Waylander, in the Drenai saga. Sequel to ‘Waylander II: In the Realm of the Wolf', the novel gives a change of place and name to Waylander's story. It furthers his motivations and the development of the legendary Prince of Assassins.
In this final volume Waylander is old, grey and ready to receive the Source. The story continues 6 years after the end of the previous book. Waylander has begun a new life, leaving behind his past. He is now a rich looking for a world that will give him peace and atonement for his crimes. This new life it too hides its own dangers and secrets. He will find himself between the plots and schemes for the political power of the Lords. Faced with enemies he cannot easily fight and a magical sorcerer working for an unknown cause, he is forced to take up his crossbow and sabre. And so once again he becomes Waylander. He is helped by an idealistic warrior, a braggart with a stolen sword, a girl with a special talent, and a mysterious priestess and her followers. He then seeks to close the chapter of his life by destroying the evil he has created by his own hand.
Gemmell has crafted this tale with it's roots firmly in action and development of the new heroes, who fight alongside Waylander. The magic used here is insidious and the the body count keeps rising. As ever, the dynamic fight scenes are simple but deadly. They paint a picture in blood rather than gory descriptions. There are strong emotional currents throughout and into this Gemmell weaves action, tension, and mystery.
Waylander is without any doubt one of the most fascinating anti-heroes ever created. Previous books follow the path from his creation as an assassin. With expert character development and sharp dialogue I recommended this book to any fantasy reader. Although previous Drenai novels (especially the Waylander ones and Winter Warriors) would create a perfect backdrop.
So, overall, this is a very strong book with Gemmell, as also his writing, reaching a very high level. As I reach to the end of this series, it was the most heroic, and magical, adventure. Indeed, all Gemmells legendary characters; from Druss the Legend, to Waylander the Slayer, to Skilgannon the Damned and all the other great heroes, show us the true meaning of sacrifice and of heroism.
If you enjoy Gemmell and heroic fantasy in general, you'll enjoy this.
Published in 1985 The King Beyond The Gate is the second book by Gemmell, after Legend. While the book is set in the same world it's not a direct sequel. Many years have passed and all the previous characters are long since dead. My first impression was that this decision to set the novel so far into the future helped to give the book more of an epic feel. It was a tale that spanned generations. I also felt that Gemmells writing had improved.
The plot is like Legend, as are the characters. As with Gemmell's previous book one of the main themes in The King Beyond The Gate is how the main protagonists manage to survive. Especially as they are all past their physical prime. They are each haunted by their past. Gemmell does a fine job in familiarising the reader with the details of their own internal conflicts, hopes and fears.
Being a Gemmell book you get the obligatory gore and blood. He is one of the best authors I've read for writing heroic combat and battle scenes. And of course these are always against overwhelming odds. He also weaves in misfortune, heartbreak, friendship, love and sorcery too.
Mentioning sorcery, one of my minor criticisms with The King Beyond The Gate is that it uses magic more than other instalments in the series. I would have also preferred to hear about how the Dragon had fallen and Ceska rose to power at the start of the book too. As this doesn't happen, at the start of the book we get the main characters bumping into one another by chance. I felt at this point the plotting could have been somewhat tighter.
So in summary, I'd recommend The King Beyond The Gate if you love exciting action driven fantasy novels. Perhaps not my favourite Gemmell book but The King Beyond The Gate does what is says on the tin: it doesn't try to be any more than enjoyable entertainment.
Quotes
As with all Gemmell books, I love to pick out the quotes which resonated with me. Here are the ones I highlighted when reading The King Beyond The Gate:
- Too many people go through life without pausing to enjoy what they have. /Ch. 2
- Nothing in life is sure, my son. Except the promise of death. /Ch. 4
- Evil lives in a pit. If you want to fight it, you must climb down into the slime to do so. White cloaks show the dirt more thank black, and silver tarnishes. /Ch. 10
- All things in the world are created for man, yet all have two purposes. The waters run that we might drink of them, but they are also symbols of the futility of man. They reflect our lives in rushing beauty, birthed in the purity of the mountains. As babes they babble and run, gushing and growing as they mature into strong young rivers. Then they widen and slow until at least they meander, like old men, to join with the sea. /Ch. 12
- “Foolish: It's all foolish. Life is a farce— a stupid, sickening farce played out by fools.” /Ch. 16
- “I had a teacher ... He said there were three kinds of people in life: winners, losers and fighters. Winners made him sick with their arrogance, losers made him sick with their whining, and fighters made him sick with their stupidity.” “In which category did he put himself?” “He said he had tried all three and nothing suited him.” “Well, at least he tried. That's all a man can do, Lake. And we shall try.” / Ch. 19
- A man makes mistakes, but he lives by them. Foolish it may be on occasion. But in the main it is the only way to live. We are what we say only so long as our words are iron. /Ch. 19
- All things are possible, ... Except the passing of regret. /Ch. 20
- Life is sad enough, Magir. Laughter is a thing to be treasured. /Ch. 22
In How To Be A Victorian “domestic historian” Ruth Goodman adopts a innovative approach to history. A journey back in time more intimate, personal and physical than anything before. It is one told from the inside out. How our ancestors interacted with the practicalities of their world. Along with a history of things that make up the mundane reality of life. Items so small that people scarcely mention them in their diaries or letters. As such we get a fascinating explanation of what life was like for the Victorians. Starting from when they rose in the morning until they went to bed at night. There are chapters on getting dressed, using the toilet, personal grooming, exercise, meals, school, work, and even sex.
Goodman has participated in many re-enactment-of-history series that have gained her celebrity status. Shows with names like “Victorian Pharmacy” and “Tudor Monastery Farm.” Here Ruth devoted months working, dressing, eating, bathing like her ancestors. She is, she says, interested not in royalty and politicians but in the ordinary Victorian.
This is an engaging account of how the Victorian era changed who we are. And how the influence still affects us now, in the present day.
Robert Penn sets out the history of agriculture and bread making. He learns how to use pre-industrial techniques to grow and produce his own family's bread. The most intriguing part was the history of agriculture and bread making. Less so the author's own bread making journey. He travels frequently, which is a little environmentally concerning, seeking out wild wheat and meeting growers and producers of flour and bread. All in all it was okay.
Relics, Revelations, and Riveting Action: Ben Hope's Latest Thriller
Scott Mariani's “The Lost Relic” is a pulse-pounding addition to the Ben Hope series, seamlessly blending historical mystery with modern-day adventure. This latest installment reaffirms Mariani's position as a master of the action-thriller genre, delivering a gripping narrative that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
The story revolves around a tantalizing historical enigma – a long-lost religious artifact shrouded in centuries of secrecy and myth. Mariani's meticulous research shines through as he weaves a complex tapestry of historical fact and fiction, creating a mystery that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The author's ability to bring historical periods to life is commendable, transporting readers across time and space with vivid descriptions and well-crafted flashbacks.
At the heart of the novel is Ben Hope, the ex-SAS operative turned troubleshooter, whose complex background and specialized skill set make him a formidable and intriguing protagonist. Mariani continues to develop Hope's character, peeling back layers of his past and psyche, which adds depth to the fast-paced narrative. The supporting cast is generally well-rounded, though some secondary characters could benefit from further development.
The action sequences are where Mariani truly excels. From heart-stopping car chases through narrow European streets to intense hand-to-hand combat scenes, each set piece is choreographed with precision and described in cinematic detail. The author's knowledge of weaponry and tactical maneuvers lends authenticity to these scenes, immersing the reader in the high-stakes world of international espionage and danger.
Mariani's prose is lean and efficient, propelling the story forward at a relentless pace. His writing style perfectly complements the genre, providing just enough description to set the scene without bogging down the narrative with unnecessary details. The plot unfolds through short, punchy chapters that often end on cliffhangers, making it nearly impossible to put the book down.
While the novel primarily focuses on action and adventure, Mariani doesn't shy away from exploring deeper themes. Questions of faith, the corrupting influence of power, and the moral ambiguities of modern geopolitics are woven throughout the story, adding intellectual heft to the thrilling ride.
“The Lost Relic” also showcases Mariani's skill in crafting a truly international thriller. The story spans multiple countries, with each location vividly realized. From the winding streets of old European cities to remote mountain monasteries, the settings become characters in their own right, contributing to the overall atmosphere of mystery and danger.
For series newcomers, “The Lost Relic” offers enough background information to jump in without feeling lost, while long-time fans will appreciate the continued evolution of Ben Hope's character and the expanding mythology of his world. However, the richness of the series' continuity may encourage new readers to explore earlier installments.
In conclusion, “The Lost Relic” is a worthy addition to the Ben Hope series, offering a perfect blend of historical intrigue, breakneck action, and thought-provoking themes. While there's room for even deeper character development, Mariani has crafted another page-turner that will satisfy thriller aficionados and history buffs alike. It's a testament to the author's storytelling prowess that, even this far into the series, Ben Hope's adventures remain fresh, exciting, and thoroughly entertaining.
In “The Mozart Conspiracy” by Scott Mariani, readers are taken on a breathtaking journey that seamlessly blends historical intrigue, international espionage, and the timeless allure of classical music. From the very first pages, Mariani weaves an intricate tapestry of suspense and mystery that will keep you eagerly turning the pages.
The story follows former SAS operative Ben Hope as he becomes embroiled in a dangerous quest to unravel the secrets surrounding Mozart's final, unfinished work. As Ben delves deeper into the enigma, he finds himself entangled in a web of hidden societies, ancient codes, and a conspiracy that stretches back centuries. Mariani's meticulous research and attention to detail bring the historical elements to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of 18th-century Europe.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its captivating blend of action and intellectual puzzles. Mariani skillfully juxtaposes heart-pounding chase sequences with intricate codebreaking challenges, ensuring that the narrative never loses its momentum. The vivid descriptions of exotic locales and the seamless integration of musical references add an extra layer of depth to the story, making it a true delight for lovers of art, history, and adventure.
However, it is the well-rounded character development that truly sets “The Mozart Conspiracy” apart. Ben Hope is a complex and multifaceted protagonist, imbued with a compelling blend of physical prowess and intellectual acuity. His interactions with the supporting cast, particularly the enigmatic Venetian beauty Brooke Marcel, are both engaging and believable, adding depth to the narrative.
While the plot occasionally veers into the realm of the far-fetched, Mariani's deft storytelling and ability to maintain a sense of suspense more than make up for any minor implausibilities. The book's pacing is relentless, with each revelation and setback driving the story forward, leaving readers breathless and eager for more.
In conclusion, “The Mozart Conspiracy” is a captivating and immersive thriller that expertly blends historical intrigue, action, and intellectual puzzles. Scott Mariani's masterful storytelling and attention to detail make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who appreciates a well-crafted, suspenseful tale.
With Slow Horses, Mick Herron introduces us to a cast of quirky British intelligence agents who have been relegated to Slough House, a bureaucratic purgatory for washed-up MI5 spies. When a young man is kidnapped, this group of misfits gets a chance to prove themselves again in the field. Herron combines a clever, intricate plot with irresistibly eccentric characters for an espionage thriller that's subtly satirical yet still filled with real suspense.
We meet River Cartwright, an arrogant young agent whose career is derailed when a training exercise goes horribly wrong. Now parked at Slough House doing pointless busywork with other screw-ups, he bristles at his diminished status. But when the kidnapped boy has a connection to him, River sees an opportunity to redeem himself by solving the case off the books with his eccentric colleagues.
This ragtag group includes classics scholar-turned-spy Roddy Ho, Forensic accountant Catherine Standish, and Jackson Lamb, their irritable, brilliant leader nursing dark secrets of his own. Herron deftly handles multiple storylines as the agents tangle with Russian mobsters and uncover conspiracies. The characters' unique skills and dysfunctions mesh beautifully to unravel the twisty case.
The plot is clever, but the real joy is the sarcastic, witty dialogue between the spies. Herron writes with sharp humor and colorfully animates each character. There's enjoyable friction, banter, and camaraderie between the oddball yet compelling agents. Even Jackson Lamb reveals moving depths beneath his slovenly, obstinate surface.
With its stellar character development, taut suspense, and sparkling wit, Slow Horses is a wonderfully entertaining read. Herron has boldly reinvigorated the espionage thriller with a healthy dose of humor and eccentricity. I eagerly await the next misadventure of these damaged yet brilliant MI5 agents.
“There is nothing more deceptive than an obvious fact.”
― Arthur Conan Doyle
One of the more enjoyable of Doyle's tales so far. The conclusion is not as obvious as you would expect with Holmes is conducting, in effect, a modern forensic investigation. The story involves Inspector Lestrade asking for Holmes's help. After the murder of Charles McCarthy his son, James, becomes a suspect. McCarthy, and another local landowner, John Turner, are both Australian expatriates. Turner's daughter, Alice, believes James is innocent. Holmes interviews James, and then inspects the scene of the murder. He deduces a third man was present. Realising Holmes has solved the case, Turner confesses to the crime. He reveals that McCarthy was blackmailing him due to Turner's criminal past. Holmes does not reveal the crime. Rather he secures James's release because of the presence of a third person at the crime scene.
A little slow-moving but worth reading over a cuppa and a Jaffa Cake or two.
Bob's self-effacing and moving memoir describing his 30-year journey from Big Nights Out to the riverbank with Paul Whitehouse.
There are no headline-grabbing showbiz revelations here. It's just Bob being honest about his insecurities. Particularly his mental health struggles and a profound shyness. And I didn't find it hilarious either. In fact, it's a little scattershot (the introductory chapters are the best: Bob discusses his early years.)
But it all seems to hang together rather well. An enjoyable read from a national treasure.
This is the fifth instalment of Dominic Sandbrook's magisterial survey of life in Britain since the 1950s. Who Dares Wins opens with a bang. We hear about the conclusion of the 1980 Iranian Embassy siege and the rescue of the hostages by the SAS. The motto of the elite special forces unit provides the book's title. Who Dares Wins chronicles the early years of Margaret Thatcher's premiership. According to Sandbrook, these three years were the most exciting and controversial in the UK's postwar history. Economically, they marked a watershed. The country was buckling from the postwar consensus of high taxation, nationalisation, and powerful trade unions.
They were also a time of political upheaval. Thatcher moved away from the postwar Keynesian consensus, tolerating high unemployment as the price of defeating inflation. We also hear about widespread protests against unemployment, which saw the People's March for Jobs and riots in Brixton and Toxteth. Plus the protest of the Greenham women. Sandbrook goes onto explain about Ken Livingston and the battles between central government and left-wing councils. Not to mention the formation of a new party: the SDP.
There's no doubt that Sandbrook has immersed himself in the politics and culture of the era. For example, he claims to have read every edition of all the main newspapers. And his diligence shows. This full and rich history crams a staggering number of events into its 976 pages. Had he confined this book to a discussion of early 1980s politics, it might have been a tough read. Fortunately, Sandbrook also evokes the sights, sounds and smells of the period. He reminds us how awful restaurant food was back then. Charts the rise of the ZX Spectrum and BBC Micro. Discusses the proliferation of wine bars, and provides an overview of bands such as Spandau Ballet and Duran Duran that catered to their clientele's aspirations. Not only that he vividly recounts major sporting events. These include Botham's Ashes, plus the Ovett-Coe 800m and 1500m finals at the 1980 Moscow Olympics.
He also displays a breathtaking knowledge of TV shows; the more trivial the better. Observing the different ways in which both Fawlty Towers and To the Manor Born, though television comedies, tell as much about the state of the nation as the BBC's Play for Today.
So, it continues in this vividly panoramic history ranging from high politics to ordinary life. From Falklands to the F-plan diet, from steel strikes to Sloane Rangers, Sandbrook covers every facet of the early 1980s. But the thing that most defined this era was the rebirth of a patriotic populism. Thatcher's victory in the Falklands, he suggests, prompted a sea change in national psychology. Talk of decline gave way to bombast. Phrases such as “Our Country at its Best” and “The British are Back!” became common. Even the Austin Metro was a British car to beat the world. “Perhaps it was here,” Sandbrook reflects, “that the road to Brexit began.” This parting thought is something to chew on while we wait for the next course of this richly satisfying historical feast.
Tracing the Techlash: A Comprehensive Look at the Roots of the Backlash Against Big Tech
“Blood in the Machine” is a well-researched and timely exploration of the growing backlash against the unrestrained power of big tech companies. Author Brian Merchant does an excellent job tracing the origins of this rebellion, delving deep into the historical, social, and economic factors that have fueled the public's increasing discontent.
One of the book's strengths is its ability to synthesize a complex web of issues - from privacy violations and monopolistic practices to the erosion of worker rights and the corrosive influence of tech on democracy. Merchant's narrative is both engaging and meticulously detailed, painting a comprehensive picture of how big tech's unchecked ambition and influence have sparked a populist uprising.
The book's primary weakness is that, at times, it can feel a bit overwhelming with the sheer amount of information presented. Merchant covers a lot of ground, and readers may occasionally find themselves wishing for a more streamlined or focused approach.
However, this minor quibble does not detract from the overall quality and importance of “Blood in the Machine.” Merchant's work is a crucial contribution to the ongoing conversation about the role and regulation of big tech in our society. It is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complex forces shaping the current techlash and the potential paths forward.
Overall, “Blood in the Machine” is a well-crafted, thoroughly researched, and thought-provoking exploration of a critical issue of our time. While it may not be an easy read, it is an essential one for anyone who cares about the future of technology and its impact on our lives.
Doyle ranked this story tenth in his list of his twelve favorite Holmes stories. And I can see why. It is a well written mystery which is evenly plotted. Moreover, it's one of his stories where Holmes doesn't resort to magical deductions. He solves the case based on evidence and acts. While there isn't many suspects Doyle is a canny enough author to avoid giving away the whole truth. This leaves the reader following Holmes; reaching the conclusion, along with the great detective himself. Turning to the plot:
Holmes receives a visit from Dr. Thorneycroft Huxtable, the founder and principal of a preparatory school called Priory School in Northern England. He beseeches Holmes to come back to Mackleton with him to look into the disappearance of one of his pupils, the ten-year-old Lord Saltire, whose father is the very rich and famous Duke of Holdernesse. Huxtable explains that not only the boy has disappeared, but also the German master, Heidegger, along with his bicycle.Once in the North, the Duke says to Holmes that he does not think that his estranged wife has anything to do with his son's disappearance, nor has there been a ransom demand. Holmes establishes that the boy and his kidnappers could not have used the nearby road without being seen, suggesting that they went cross-country. As if to confirm this, the police find the boy's school cap in some gypsies' possession. They swear that they simply found it on the moor, but the police lock them up.Holmes and Dr. Watson go hunting for clues. They find a bicycle track, but it is not Heidegger's; it does not match his tyres. Holmes observe that one tyre has a patch on it. Almost everything observable has been obliterated by cow tracks (which are the only marks on the ground anywhere). Eventually, Heidegger's bicycle tracks are found, and they end where he lies, dead. After that, Holmes and Watson arrive at the Fighting Cock Inn, and meet the innkeeper, Reuben Hayes, who seems startled indeed to hear that Holmes wants to go to Holdernesse Hall, the Duke's nearby house, to tell him news of his son. The two men have lunch there, and Holmes suddenly realises that he and Watson saw lots of cow tracks out on the moor, but never at any time did they see any cows. Furthermore, the patterns of the hoof prints were quite unusual, suggesting that the cow in question trotted, cantered, and galloped. Holmes and Watson sneak out to Hayes's stable and examine the horse's hooves. As Holmes has expected, there is evidence of recent shoeing, but with old shoes and new nails. Examining the nearby smithy, Holmes and Watson are rather belligerently asked to leave by Mr. Hayes.Shortly afterwards, the two men hide as a cyclist comes along the road from the direction of the Duke's. It is James Wilder, the Duke's personal secretary, and he looks agitated. He arrives at the inn. Soon afterwards, a trap pulls out of the stable yard and goes along the road towards Chesterfield. A while later, someone else – it is getting dark and only a fleeting glimpse of the new visitor is caught – arrives at the inn. Coming closer, Holmes observes Wilder's bicycle tyres and notes that they are the same make as the first ones encountered on the moor.The next morning, they go to Holdernesse Hall, where they find that the Duke is not well. Nevertheless, Holmes demands from him a cheque for £6000, saying that he has earned the reward. His son is at the Fighting Cock, and the accused is the Duke himself, but the actual mastermind of this crime is James Wilder, who has a terrible secret: he is the illegitimate son of the Duke. He conceived a plan to kidnap Lord Saltire to force the Duke to change his will, knowing very well that his father would not call the police on him, as he abhorred the very idea of scandal. The plan began to unravel when Wilder hired Hayes – who has now fled, but been caught on Holmes's information – to do the actual kidnapping. Hayes killed Heidegger, and when Wilder heard the news, he confessed all to his father. So anxious was the Duke to avoid scandal, he agreed to let his younger son stay at the inn for another three days, and to keep quiet, so that Hayes could flee justice.All ends well, except for Hayes, who faces the gallows. Lord Saltire is brought home from the inn and the Duke writes to his estranged wife asking her to reconcile with him. This he feels she will be willing to do, for the source of the friction between them is going away: James Wilder is being packed off to Australia to seek his fortune . As for the cow tracks, they were accomplished by shoeing the horses with special shoes shaped like cow's hooves.
How to Have a Good Day explains how you can make the most of your working day. It provides advice based on findings in the fields of:
- psychology,
- economics, and
- neuroscience.
It shows you how to navigate workplace challenges and boost your energy levels. The author is Caroline Webb. She is a management consultant who worked for McKinsey for 12 years. She then launched her own company, Sevenshift. They help clients increase their productivity, energy and enthusiasm.
Webb begins her book with a review of the science that are key to understanding how we will be able to create a good day:
- The two-system brain. Our brains run two opposing systems in parallel. The deliberate system is our conscious thinking, slow and rational. The automatic system is subconscious, fast and instinctive.
The mind-body loop. There is an interconnection between mind and body. We know happiness leads to a smile, but we did not know smiling (no matter how we feel) will make us happier.
The discover-defend axis. We are constantly moving along an axis. It is fixed at one end by a defensive outlook. This expects imminent attacks. The other end is anchored by discovery, seeking out rewarding experiences.
Having laid the scientific groundwork, Webb then covers the building blocks of a good day:
Priorities: setting the intentional direction of the day.
Productivity: making the most of the hours of the day.
Relationships: having positive, productive interactions.
Thinking: making wise choices, being creative and smart.
Influence: maximizing the impact of what we say and do.
Resilience: overcoming setbacks and annoyances.
Energy: boosting enthusiasm and enjoyment.
These are then explained in more detail:
To have a more productive day, start by laying out your intentions and goals.
- set out your intentions for each day. Try to remove any activities you know tend to distract you from achieving them.
- frame your goals in positive language. Goals framed positively can also be called approach goals. In other words, goals that state the positive outcome you're hoping to achieve. An example, “make my product irresistible.” The contrast to this would be an avoidance goal, like “stop losing customers.”
- make a when-then plan to prepare for obstacles that could come between you and your goals.
- identify what those distracting habits are for you and put extra focus on avoiding them. Keep your sights on the day's goals.
Manage overload, beat procrastination and stay focused by making a plan and scheduling enough breaks.
- split up the big task into small, manageable steps
- schedule breaks at least every hour and a half.
- write down everything you need to do in the next few days or weeks. - mark the most important tasks and take one step toward completing that task today, no matter how small it is.
Surround yourself with pleasant relationships by building rapport with the people you meet and resolving tensions directly.
- build rapport when you interact with someone at work.
- find commonalities or shared areas of interest by showing a genuine curiosity in your coworkers. Highlight shared interests.
- resolve any tensions with coworkers, as they can sap your enthusiasm. The best way to go about this is to openly explain to your coworker what you're feeling and why in a polite but firm manner.
Address decisions systematically by using thinking routines and breaking down complex problems into an issue tree.
- always invite colleagues to give her feedback about her current work.
- ask yourself a set of questions like, “what are the alternatives and potential disadvantages to this choice?” or “what would the worst-case scenario be, and what are some of my options if that happens?”
- break down a complex problem with an issue tree. Add a question to the trunk of the tree. Now, write down the two possible options that form the branches of the tree. Then, think of concrete actions that would help you realize those options
To get your message across, involve your audience and make your presentation memorable.
- your audience will be much more receptive if you involve them and make them feel as if they're choosing what to learn.
- people will internalize much more of your message if you draw and write in real time. As opposed to using prepared slides.
Build your confidence by thinking of problems you overcame in the past and boost your energy with positive thoughts.
- imagine it's not you but a friend who has to face the client. What advice would you give? You can take this even further by talking to yourself in the second person to gain a more distant perspective. Next, think of a past situation you handled well and ask yourself what resources helped you then.
- start by identifying the mental, physical and temporal patterns and triggers that affect the ebb and flow of your energy. Maybe, for example, you always feel lethargic after lunch. Then, find ways to boost your energy during the energy lows.
- gratitude exercise: think of three things that happened to you today that you're grateful for.
In summary
There are always going to be bad days and circumstances beyond our control. Nevertheless, developing positive routines, learning from the past and connecting with colleagues are all good ways to make the most of your waking hours. Know yourself well enough to recognize what you might need to help boost your energy. And you can turn almost any day into a good day.
Set in 1957 against the backdrop of the Space Race, Trigger Mortis starts a couple of weeks after the Goldfinger adventures finish. So, this is an unusual continuation novel as its set on the original Fleming timeline. Unfortunately, the name of the book didn't blow me away. But as Horowitz has done so well with other continuation books such as Sherlock Holmes I decided to overlook this and dive in. I'm glad that I did (the name makes sense when you read the book, it's actually used a couple of times albeit in different contexts).
Another uncommon feature is that a famous Bond girl, Pussy Galore, makes a return, moving into Bonds London apartment. Plus the novel contains around about 500 words of Fleming's own material. This came from an American TV series which was discussed before the success of the film, Dr. No. I believe the episode in question was called, Murder of Wheels? Anyway, the text integrated at the start of the book, when Bond has to prevent the assassination of a British race-car driver. Without giving away the exact plot it has all the usual Bond elements: the evil villain Jai Seung Sin, SMERSH, a beautiful girl Jeopardy Lane, etc.
And this is a literary Bond, not the movie Bond written into a book.
There's a particularly nail biting section where a buried alive Bond has to escape (or course he does). I don't believe I would be spoiling anything to say Bond saves the day (yet again) being the world's greatest secret agent, no surprise there.
In summary, Horowitz has done a decent job at replicating the exciting tone and atmosphere of the original Fleming books. Let hope that he's commissioned to write some more. Even better, a collaboration with Charlie Higson whose Young Bond books show a level of understanding of 007 which is second to none.
Great to have you back Mr Bond!
I read three Black Sabbath books one after the other. Why? To get what I hoped was a balanced overview of the events surrounding the band. These were:1. [b: Black Sabbath: Symptom of the Universe 22545456 Black Sabbath Symptom of the Universe Mick Wall https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1404618512s/22545456.jpg 27094274] by Mick Wall2. [b: I Am Ozzy 6952423 I Am Ozzy Ozzy Osbourne https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1437442875s/6952423.jpg 7187129] by Ozzy Osbourne3. Iron Man: My Journey Through Heaven and Hell with Black Sabbath by Tony IommiPerhaps the two quotes that sum up all three books are these, which are both from I Am Ozzy:“I remember saying to Tony [Iommi], ‘Did you hear how heavy that Led Zeppelin album sounded?'Without missing a beat, he replied, ‘We'll be heavier.'”And:“‘The world doesn't revolve around Tony [Iommi],' he said. ‘There'll be other guitarists.'He was a good guy, my old man. But this time he was wrong. There were no other guitarists.Not like Tony.”Tony and Ozzy's books are more reminiscences or memoirs as opposed to in-depth autobiographies. Both books only scratch the surface and I think this is where some people felt let down by them (more on this subject later). In fact, I felt that Tony's book was more or less as comprehensive as Ozzy's but both were less detailed than Micks (if this makes sense?)In Tony's book it's clear he writes like he plays the guitar. In brief, hard-hitting passages. This means that there are 90 short chapters in the book. All were very readable and written in a coherent and often funny way. There were lots of laugh out loud moments about his drug fuelled antics and many pranks.Tony starts by describing his poverty stricken childhood. He then moves onto decribe the early days of the band, working through each album in turn. The tours, drugs, Satanism claims, groupies, line-up changes, bad management, parties, fights, heartbreaks and personal problems all follow.As I said earlier it's interesting to read multiple versions of similar events; how does Tony's version compare with Ozzys recollections? Then factor in the details researched by Mick Wall. Wile they're similar I got the impression that Ozzy felt somewhat intimidated by Tony. Tony was the driving force behind the group. He acknowledges he didn't like confrontations and this resulted in communication problems with band members and management. He assumed the role of reluctant leader. At time he made the tough decisions which nobody else wanted to take, just to meet the commitments that the group had taken on.The were some revelations too. For example, Tony insists that he managed to project himself onto an astral plane a number of times. Plus he has seen various ghosts over the years. Of course, this has nothing to do with his massive consumption of drugs over a thirty year span, I'm sure?!But perhaps the biggest revelation concerned the following Tony reveals that that at one point Michael Bolton was considered as a singer for Sabbath! Definitely a shock.I've read that some reviews of this book which say that this was a terrible autobiography. It's repetitive: record, tour, party, drugs, personal issues, etc. Also, that it's not written with a lot of feeling, or emotion. But what did people expect? That's what a band does and that's who Tony is. Sure, you don't get any great philosophical or psychological insights into “who is Tony” or what makes him tick. Nor do you learn how to write hit songs or get an in depth run down of the guitar and equipment set-up he uses. It seems that Tony is nothing but workman like when it comes to making music and getting on with life. There are no great big “ah-ha” moments where you think, that's an amazing revelation which I can apply to my own life. Tony isn't a role model and you wouldn't want him as a neighbour. But saying this he doesn't come off as being an unlikable man, he is polite about most people, even people he dislikes. You get the impression he is just someone who loves music and wants to play the guitar.So in summary, even if you only have a passing interest in Black Sabbath I can recommend Tony's book. Love them or hate them, he created one of the most important bands ever and invented a whole new musical genre: heavy metal. His personal willpower and strength of character to succeed against all odds is inspiring in a way, as is his lack of pretentiousness. He has massive inner strength and I do hope this helps him to with his current health issues. Highly recommended.
A Thrilling Ride Through Shadowy Conspiracies
Scott Mariani's “The Shadow Project” delivers a pulse-pounding adventure that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This installment in the Ben Hope series showcases Mariani's knack for blending high-stakes action with intriguing historical mysteries.
The story follows ex-SAS operative Ben Hope as he's drawn into a dangerous web of secrets surrounding a clandestine World War II operation. Mariani's pacing is relentless, propelling the reader through a maze of twists and turns that span from wartime Europe to present-day intrigue.
What sets “The Shadow Project” apart is Mariani's attention to historical detail. The author weaves real-world events and figures into his fictional narrative, creating a rich tapestry that blurs the lines between fact and fiction. This adds an extra layer of intrigue for history buffs and conspiracy theorists alike.
Ben Hope remains a compelling protagonist, with his complex past and formidable skills making him a force to be reckoned with. The supporting cast is well-developed, though at times some characters can feel a bit archetypal for the genre.
While the plot is gripping, there are moments where the suspension of disbelief is stretched a bit thin. Some of the escapes and coincidences can feel a tad convenient, but they're forgivable in the context of the fast-paced thriller genre.
Mariani's prose is efficient and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of both action sequences and European locales. The dialogue crackles with tension, though occasionally it can veer into expository territory to explain historical context.
“The Shadow Project” is a solid entry in the Ben Hope series, offering a satisfying blend of historical intrigue and modern-day thrills. While it may not reinvent the wheel, it executes its formula with polished skill.
For fans of the series, this book delivers everything they've come to expect and love. Newcomers may want to start with earlier installments to fully appreciate Ben's character arc, but “The Shadow Project” can still be enjoyed as a standalone adventure.
In conclusion, Scott Mariani has crafted another entertaining page-turner that will satisfy thriller aficionados and history enthusiasts alike. Despite minor flaws, “The Shadow Project” earns a strong 4 out of 5 stars for its engaging plot, well-researched historical elements, and non-stop action.
A new biography by Matthew Dennison of the creator of many much-loved literary characters.
The familiar image of Roald Dahl is that of an old man, a tall, stooping figure usually dressed in a long cardigan, a rug over his knees in his writing hut. But one of our greatest storytellers was, as a young man, a dashing, very tall, handsome chap who women were very much drawn to.
He was brought up by his feisty Norwegian mother, and her love of the country myths and folk tales of the North influenced his writing. A flying accident which nearly killed him ended his war career, which was followed by time in Washington, where he began his writing career with short stories. There he met the beautiful actress Patricia Neale and began a family. Tragedy struck when his elder daughter died from measles, his baby son was nearly killed in a road accident in New York, and his wife suffered a near fatal stroke from which he single-handedly forced her back into good health. For all his life he remained unafraid to court controversy, or to make his views known forcefully.