Guy Gavriel Kay, Sailing to Sarantium and Lord of Emperors

These two make up Kay's Sarantine Mosaic duo. It's probably the most elaborate of his fantasy/historical worlds, based on Byzantium. I still enjoy these two, in part for their discussion of mosaic and of Ravenna. (That, of course, features a couple of mosaics that made it into the Top 500 Art History Cards.) And they bear all the hallmarks of classic, vintage Kay.

On first read, I don't think I fully appreciated them -- too many nuances. But now that I know the plot, if you will, I can see the resonances and patterns.

These books probably deserve more of a review, but I've injured my pinky finger, which makes typing surprisingly difficult.

* Christopher Moore, Coyote Blue

Books that advertise themselves as "quirky" or "unexpected" rarely are. But I was intrigued by this one from the first page: a pronunciation guide for "coyote" whether as person or animal or book title. It also suggested that, if one cared about appearances, one should practice before reading out loud, especially on airplanes. :)

And it was a fun read, with much of the story told in flashbacks, though with events continuing to progress in the present. That said, it's not much more. I don't know that I'll be returning to it or be buying Christopher Moore in hardback anytime soon.

Ngaio Marsh, Overture to Death

Ngaio Marsh, Death and the Dancing Footman

Ngaio Marsh, Death in a White Tie

This mystery -- another in a fine chain of them -- features an intricate plot and, best of all, the realization of the Alleyn-Troy romance. They're such a lovely couple that the few bits given over to their courtship are simply delightful. Now I just need to figure out which book they get married in.

This Marsh mystery has, as always, some delightful lines. And some great interactions between Alleyn and his mother. I think my favorite from this novel comes from one of their conversations, when Lady Alleyn explains that she's planning to "do" the London season to help her granddaughter debut or "come out." Somewhat exasperated, Alleyn asks, "Why can't she stay in?" It just fits so perfectly.

There's something comforting in these novels, though they are all about murders. But there's a simplicity and an ease about them -- maybe because these are one-time deals and not serial killers? The writing itself has an elegance, an economy that's pleasant. More complicated and complete characters than in Agatha Christie, but still some delightful plots.

Ngaio Marsh, A Man Lay Dead

Ngaio Marsh, Artists in Crime

* A.J. Jacobs, The Know-It All

Highly recommended!

John Le Carre, Absolute Friends