Still Life by Sarah Winman

I have peaked too soon? Have I already read the best book I will read in 2022?

‘Still Life’ was a novel that I had seen all over bookstagram and BBC Two’s brilliant book show ‘Between the Covers’. So, when I spotted it in the sales, I decided to pick up a copy, especially as it is so pretty.

I am not sure I know how to put my love of this book into words. It is so beautifully written, and the descriptions of Florence and Italian life are just perfection. I was transported to Florence and it made me long for a trip to Italy (although I have to confess that my heart probably belongs to northern Italy and Venice, I love the whole country).

But what truly drew me into this book was the wonderful collection of characters and the relationships established between each of them, and with the city of Florence and Tuscany. I was invested in everyone’s story and each personal journey – I laughed, loved and lived with each of these characters.

It also really emphasised the impact that one simple moment can have on your future. And how missing those moments can have just as much of an influence on the path someone may take through life. Evelyn and Ulysses are two wonderful examples of how to make the most of the life we are given.

This book truly got under my skin, and I am convinced that it is one I will return to – it will be lke returning to old friends and memories.

Still Life by Val McDermid

This was my first novel by Val McDermid (other than her retelling of ‘Northanger Abbey’) and I am very thankful to have been gifted a copy to read and discuss.

Immediately, I was sucked in, because I absolutely love a good crime novel. The book was atmospheric from the start, and I needed to know what was going to happen next and where this whole tale was going.

McDermid also creates excellent characters. I was a big fan of DCI Pirie. Do no get me wrong, she has character flaws as all good fictional detectives do. But she is someone that you can imagine sitting down with to have a G&T and a chat. McDermid’s villains in this tale are fabulous, too, as you could easily believe that they could commit the crimes of the story.

Yet, the thing I really like about this book is so simple – the title. There is so much meaning about the phrase ‘Still Life’. Not only could it point to the theme of art and a styl, but it points to the ideas of life ending – and the idea that life returns and continues. There is, in fact, so much of the book in that two-word title.

Val McDermid’s writing is charming and creates a real page-turner. I am really keen to read more of her work. Especially to find out more Karen Pirie’s earlier life.