book
Reviews
Welcome to my literary lair! Here, you’ll stumble upon all the books that have managed to keep my attention—trust me, it’s no small feat! I lean more towards historical narratives that grip me from the get-go; if a book doesn’t spark my interest in the first few chapters, it’s a no-go. But when they do, it’s doors locked, phone off, deep dive time.
Dive deep into my reviews where I wrestle with the darkest truths across genres. From heart-tugging journals to laugh-out-loud observations, and yes, those critical blog posts—all wrapped up in a weekly update just for you. And for those who fancy a bit of intrigue, I’ll sprinkle in some short stories too.
As a little bonus for joining my world, you’ll get a complimentary copy of “TROLL,” the prequel to the thrilling Alex Brown series. Ready to be the first to hear about all the literary adventures from my desk? Scroll down and sign up for my newsletter. Let’s turn the page to our next great read together!

Pathogenesis: How Germs Made History
Jonathan Kennedy’s “Pathogenesis” is an unputdownable journey through the microbial world. It highlights humanity’s fragility and the resilience of bacteria, offering a sobering reflection on our place in the natural order. This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by the invisible forces that shape our existence.
The End of History and the Last Man: A Timeless Analysis of Liberal Democracy
Francis Fukuyama’s “The End of History and the Last Man” offers a profound analysis of the triumph of liberal democracy post-Cold War, tackling themes of ideological evolution, religious fundamentalism, and the future of global politics. Discover why this seminal work remains as compelling and provocative today as it was when first published.
Timeless Echoes of Revolution: A Review of Simon Sebag Montefiore’s ‘Sashenka’
Immerse yourself in the tumultuous world of the Russian Revolution with Simon Sebag Montefiore’s ‘Sashenka’. This review explores how the novel’s intricate storytelling and historical depth make it a standout favorite, so captivating that one might hesitate to even start the sequels!
Exploring the Paradoxes of Power: A Review of Simon Sebag Montefiore’s Stalin
In his biography “Stalin”, Simon Sebag Montefiore presents a chillingly detailed portrayal of the Soviet dictator, blending exhaustive research with narrative flair to explore the profound paradoxes of human nature under totalitarian rule. This review delves into the complexities of Stalin’s reign, revealing both the horrors and the unexpected humanity within one of the 20th century’s most tyrannical leaders.
Dissecting Division: A Review of James O’Brien’s ‘How They Broke Britain’
Explore our review of James O’Brien’s enlightening yet unsettling book, ‘How They Broke Britain’. Delve into the socio-political complexities and the hopeful undertones as O’Brien critiques the pivotal decisions shaping modern Britain.
Through the Ages with Montefiore: A Soulful Journey into Jerusalem’s Heart
Discover the layers of history, culture, and spirituality that have shaped Jerusalem, as Simon Sebag Montefiore unveils them in his acclaimed book “Jerusalem: The Biography”. A must-read for anyone fascinated by the pivotal city’s past and present.
Riding ‘The Coming Wave’: A Surge of Promise and Peril
Mustafa Suleyman’s ‘The Coming Wave’ serves as a wake-up call on AI’s ethical complexities. This blog delves into the transformative power and ethical challenges of artificial intelligence.
Democracy on the Brink: A Revealing Journey through Trump’s Chaos in ‘Rage
“Rage,” Bob Woodward’s unflinching exploration of the Trump administration, is a revealing journey into political chaos. With a spotlight on figures like General James Mattis, the narrative paints a disturbing yet essential picture of a tumultuous era. Despite personal reservations about Trump, one cannot ignore the telling narrative Woodward presents. As much a work of art as a piece of journalism, “Rage” is a masterclass in revealing the worrying inadequacies of a leader entrusted with global security.
Money by Martin Amis – A Dark Mirror of Male Excess and the Perversity of Money: A Conflicted Review
Delve into the unsettling pages of “Money” by Martin Amis, a thought-provoking novel that unravels the dark underbelly of wealth and excess. Amis masterfully crafts a narrative that exposes the grotesque nature of male self-loathing, while shedding light on the perversity of our society’s obsession with money. The vivid prose and biting social commentary force readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our own desires and the moral decay of the human condition. While brilliantly written, “Money” is an uncomfortable read, leaving a lasting impact that challenges conventional notions of success. Brace yourself for a gripping exploration of wealth, power, and the cost of our deepest desires in Amis’ remarkable novel.
Milk Fed’: A Personal Journey Through the Shadows of Food Addiction
Milk Fed by Melissa Broder may not be a comfortable journey for all readers. It offers an unfiltered delve into the world of Rachel, a young woman navigating her eating disorder, her infatuation for an Orthodox Jewish woman, and her own self-identity. While the narrative is bold, thought-provoking and filled with memorable characters, the relatability of the protagonist’s addictive tendencies might make it a challenging read for some. It is a well-structured narrative exposing uncomfortable truths about addiction at its core. Reader discretion is advised
Outlander – Diana Gabaldon
Step into the world of 18th century Scotland with Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander. This book is more than just a historical romance; it’s a gripping adventure filled with intrigue, danger, and passion. Gabaldon’s writing is vivid and descriptive, immersing readers in the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Follow the journey of Claire Randall, a nurse from 1945, as she finds herself transported back in time and falls in love with the charming and rugged Scottish warrior, Jamie Fraser. This literary masterpiece is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, romance, or adventure.
Lazarus
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Dandelion Insurection
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Fools and Mortals – Bernard Cornwell
by Jon BiddleI’m a fickle reader and a writer, and there are...
Roots – Alex Haley
by Jon Biddle I read this book as a teenager at boarding...
Our Little Cruelties – Liz Nugent
by Jon Biddle I have been in therapy for over six years...
Embracing Your Inner Critic
by Jon BiddleOkay, so where do I start? There’s so much in this...
Transcendence
by Jon BiddleThere're questions we as humans constantly ask?...
Their Darkest Hour
by Jon BiddleWhat would you do? Is the question I ask myself...
the killer inside
by Jon BiddleA classic. A book I read thirty years ago. It...
Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare
review by Jon Biddle So, I love...
Trump – Too Much and Never Enough
by Jon Biddle So this book isn’t what I thought. Now I know...
Fall Of Giants
by Jon Biddle I’m currently researching a period of time that a...
Why We Sleep
by Jon BiddleI love reading self help books, there is always...
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