The Last September, by Nina De Gramont (Algonquin Books, September 2015). This is the opening paragraph:
Because I am a student of literature, I will start my story on the day Charlie died. In other words, I’m beginning in the middle. In medias res, that’s the Latin term, and though my specialty is American Renaissance poetry, I did have to study the classics. Homer, Dante, Milton. They knew about the middle, how all of life revolves around a single moment in time. Everything that comes before leads up to that moment. Everything that comes afterward springs from that moment.Initial Thoughts:
In my case, that moment—that middle—is my husband’s murder.
Well, it's a little talky. But I think it's intriguing enough to keep me reading. What do you think? Does that opening passage draw you in, or turn you off?
Rose City Reader hosts Book Beginnings on Fridays. As she says, the idea is to post the first sentence (or so) of the book you're currently reading, along with any first impressions or thoughts you have about the book, the author, etc. It's a wonderful way of adding new books to your must-read list, and a chance to connect with other readers and bloggers.
What? a murder? I was NOT expecting that. I think I'd better look for this book.
ReplyDeleteMy Friday Quotes
Definitely a little tally, but unusual enough that it would t tick me off. Smart to give us the whole paragraph or it would seem like 2 different books.
ReplyDeleteI think that is a good place to start. Murder always peaks my interest. It does seem a bit wordy and that might bug me. Would have to check it out to know for sure. But I hope you enjoy it.
ReplyDeletesherry @ fundinmental Friday Memes
Definitely a little talky but very intriguing! I'd love to find out what happens next.
ReplyDeleteI love it when books are aware of themselves, when authors actively talk about writing and how they write. It's always interesting :) And way to reel the reader in with that last line! I'm intrigued, to say the least! Thanks for sharing :) I hope you have a great week!
ReplyDeleteMy Friday post
Juli @ Universe in Words
I just started this book last night...only read about two paragraphs, though. Too sleepy.
ReplyDeleteSounds good...thanks.
Elizabeth
Silver's Reviews
My Book Beginnings
This book is on my list, and I can't wait to read it! Thanks for sharing...and here's mine: “HOUSE OF GLASS”
ReplyDeleteIt is a little wordy but that just makes me think it's probably a British/Canadian or Australian writer...lol...it does sound pretty interesting though so I'm adding it to my list. Here's my Book Beginnings and Friday 56
ReplyDeleteWhoa. That last line!!!
ReplyDeleteSounds like a fantastic read!