The Corpse Reader by Antonio Garrido (translated from the Spanish by Thomas Bunstead)

The Corpse Reader (another historical whodunnit in the same vein as The Hangman’s Daughter series) is published through Amazon Crossing, Amazon’s international/translation imprint.  I bought it because it was advertised on my Kindle as the “Daily Deal”.  Not so much for the low price – though I am surprised to admit that did play a small part – but mainly because it caught my eye … Continue reading The Corpse Reader by Antonio Garrido (translated from the Spanish by Thomas Bunstead)

Boat to Redemption by Su Tong (Howard Goldblatt, translator)

If you’re unfamiliar with Chinese culture, Boat to Redemption can be both an intriguing and baffling book.  Set in Maoist China, Ku Wenxuan is the son of a martyr of the Revolution.  As such he’s lived a life of privilege – a comfy government job, a beautiful wife and a position of honor in the community.  Until, one day, his status is revoked.  The reason … Continue reading Boat to Redemption by Su Tong (Howard Goldblatt, translator)

The Adventures of Master Li & Number Ten Ox

Most fantasy novels are variations on a theme.  A young lad, seemingly doomed to a life of menial labor, discovers himself to be a great magician and/or warrior. He and his trusted companions go on a dangerous quest, at the end of which they face the powerful villain who they eventually defeat. The young hero gets the girl and claims his rightful place in the … Continue reading The Adventures of Master Li & Number Ten Ox