Just once I’d like to see a book end in disaster. After having just finished “Celine,” by Peter Heller, a book I enjoyed, I realized it was time for me to return to nonfiction. This book marked my third novel in a row, each ending with a comprehensive, complex melding of story and character alike. There is always a certain level of predictability to novels like these, and this is where the quality of writing comes into play. If the writing is good, heck, I’ll put up with just about anything. But I still long for the novel that comes with a “What the F&^%,” as I turn the final page.
If you don’t know Peter Heller, start with “The Dog Stars,” and then venture to “The Painter.” If you love the west, love nature, love fishing, love a tinge of darkness here and there then Heller might work for you. He also writes for Outside and a few other adventure magazines and has also done some nonfiction.
Celine felt like the foundation of what could be a great episodic character. An older woman with skills she shouldn’t have, skills that even her partner doesn’t know the origin of. A mystery, death, love and a western palette that becomes one of the main characters. An easy, fun read that takes the reader from coastal California to the edges of the country via remote wilderness. There is a bit of gun action, some photography talk and humor. One of the characters is a Mainer, so reading this book from where I’m sitting right now felt just about right.
Comments 5
That’s some”interesting’ bokeh you got there, Mr M!
Author
Nothing like a little horrendous Apple, digital falloff.
“An older woman with skills she shouldn’t have, skills that even her partner doesn’t know the origin of.” I hate to say it, but this doesn’t sound terrible original. Think Jason Bourne. And a few other made-for-streaming shows. Anyway, I still will check out Peter Heller. I’m reading recklessly, as Austin Kleon likes to say, and will pick up just about anything to get a taste of.
Author
Ah, but Bourne was part of a black ops training program. This woman, you don’t know she has skills until the last fifty pages. It’s kinda odd but an easy read.
I’d forgotten about The Dog Stars. My friend worked with him through his publishing company, recommended the book. I remember liking it, but not loving it. I won’t spoil it for anyone. I liked it enough that I’d read through it again – I’m a sucker for post-apocalyptic.