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The Compound by Aisling Rawle
This debut novel surprised me, in a good way. An interesting concept that proved very addictive, not unlike the reality TV shows it is based on.
Set in a dystopian society, our main contestant is the gorgeous young Lily placed within the compound, a derelict mansion in the middle of the desert. Nine other stunning women are also in residence. Their every move documented by cameras 24/7.
Ten men trek across the desert to cohabit, but only nine reach the compound. When they arrive, the games begin immediately. Any participant who doesn’t have a bedmate of the opposite gender by sunrise is eliminated.
Team and solo challenges are the only way to get the essentials they need and the luxuries they desire.
These challenges are often degrading, sometimes malicious and eventually will whittle them down to find the winner who will take it all.
A thrilling dark satire, exploring not only reality TV but the extremes humankind will go to for instant gratification and materialism. Twisted, suspenseful and very entertaining.
Trigger warning: does contain violence
Reviewed by Abby Soffe
The Deadly Dispute by Amanda Hampson
Settling myself for the obligatory cup of tea, I prepared for another dose of the disparate group of elderly ladies getting up to all sorts of mayhem and mischief. I wasn’t disappointed – far from it.
Hazel, Irene and Betty make a formidable team with their complimentary skills – bravery, foolhardiness, nous and a general all-round ability to be both kind and ruthless according to the situation.
This third Tea Ladies Mystery encompasses yet another series of crimes to be solved, lives to be lived and fun to be had. Our heroines are very human, they make mistakes, display recklessness, but somehow muddle through and find redemption.
I really like these stories, laced with humour, danger, friendships, a sense of place and history and above all, helping their world to be a better place.
While these stories share similarities with the popular Thursday Murder Club, and the Ladies No 1
Detective Agency, don’t be fooled, this series is right up there.
Delightful entertainment, moving at an easy pace, these ladies will stay in your mind as you wait for the next instalment.
Reviewed by Barbara Leslie
