Every Tuesday I host First Chapter First Paragraph Tuesday Intros where I share the first paragraph sometimes two from a book I am reading or thinking about reading soon.
The New Neighbor; Leah Stewart
Touchstone - 2015
Signs of Life
"Where before there was no one, suddenly I, Margaret Riley, have a neighbor. I went out on the back deck this morning, and there she was. Across the pond, sitting on her own back deck. I was startled. That house had been empty a long time. My first impulse was to go back inside, as if I'd come upon something shameful, or embarrassed myself. As if I were out there naked, which of course I wasn't, and even if I had been she was too far away to see. But I am braver than that. I put my coffee cup on the table, as usual, and then I went back inside for my book, which is by P/D. James, a remarkable woman, as ancient as I am and still creating mysteries. I have to make two trips because I need one hand for the cane. Sometimes I try to manage cane and book and coffee all at once, and the result is always coffee stains, or burns, or at the very least a wet book and a diminished cup of coffee. Every morning I am frustrated anew by the need to make two trips. Impatience and age are not compatible."
What do you think -- keep reading or pass?
(Feel free to join in this week by posting your intro below?
Oh, I loved this book! Hope you do, too. Great opening lines.
ReplyDeleteI remember you saying that you enjoyed this one Laurel -- good to hear.
DeleteThis sounds like a wonderful book. I like the point-of-view character already! I'm definitely curious about the new neighbor too.
ReplyDeleteI just started it and it's holding my interest.
DeleteI remember Luarel-Rain talking about this one and deciding then I should read it. I am glad you reminded me of it, Diane.
ReplyDeleteSo far it's really good Wendy.
DeleteI see myself in this paragraph. The last line is a true litany among my friends. I want to keep reading.
ReplyDeleteLOL - your comment made me laugh, sad but true.
DeleteI have already got my sights set on this book and yes, having read the opening, I still want to read more!
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked the intro Cleo.
DeleteThis book is on my TBR so would definitely continue. It sounds good!
ReplyDeleteI am enjoying it Emma.
DeleteI guess this one isn't for me as I found myself zoning out after three sentences. But hey, I'm a mood reader and sometimes that just means it is the wrong time.
ReplyDeleteMy First Chapter share is up over here if you're interested: http://www.bookpunks.com/so-it-begins-the-daylight-gate-by-jeanette-winterson/
Oh too bad Nikki, but hey we all have different taste in books.
DeleteOh, my gosh, Diane; my husband and I just moved into a new home about 3 weeks ago and I had a moment sort of like this in my backyard - ha! I would definitely keep reading!! Thanks for sharing this one and hosting today's link up; hope you have a great day!
ReplyDeleteWell, I can see why this one would resonate with you LOL
DeleteI've had this one on my radar -- looks so good.
ReplyDeleteI've read this author previously and enjoyed her style.
DeleteI haven't read this one yet, but it does sound like a good one.
ReplyDeleteGlad u liked the intro.
DeleteI put this on my wish list after reading Laurel-Rain's review! Hope you like it, too.
ReplyDeleteIt hooked me right away, but only at the 15% point on my Kindle.
DeleteThis one is in my reading queue. Hope you enjoy it!
ReplyDeleteSo far it's really good; hope u read it.
DeleteThere seems to be a lot going on in that opening passage.
ReplyDeleteI assume that is intentional, perhaps as a reflection of how the protagonist thinks?
Such an unusual writing style would keep me interested and I would at least venture a little further.
SHE'S 90 BRIAN, SO YES I THINK THAT INTRO REFLECTS HER THOUGHT PROCESS.
DeleteThe opening left me with lots of questions, so I'd have to keep reading!
ReplyDeleteGlad it drew you in Monica.
DeleteA senior reading P D James - what's not to like? I'm in!
ReplyDeleteI agree LOL (she's 90)
DeleteExactly and she's 90.
DeleteEven older than I thought!
DeleteThis book is already on my wish list, must have been Laurel-Rain's review!
ReplyDeleteYou'll enjoy it I think. Hooks you in early.
DeleteI'm not sure, the grammar bothered me a bit.
ReplyDeleteThat got me as well, but she's 90 and that's to reflect her thought process.
DeleteI love the description of the new neighbor. I thought of P.D. James this past weekend, The Lighthouse.
ReplyDeletePD James is always good for a fine mystery.
DeleteSince I'm almost at that age myself, I'd definitely read on! I have new neighbors too!
ReplyDeleteOk Harvee, you are NOT 90 I'm guessing...LOL
DeleteYes, this sounds like something I'd enjoy! Thanks for bringing it to my attention!
ReplyDeleteIt's easy to fall into so far - alternating chapters from each neighbor.
DeleteDefinitely sounds like one I'd keep reading. Hope it's good. I was traveling all day so couldn't join in on the Mr. Linky until now. Thanks for visiting anyway!
ReplyDeleteNot a problem, I think this one will appeal to lots of readers.
DeleteSounds like a keeper, I'd keep on reading :) Have a great week Diane.
ReplyDeleteI would definitely read it! I giggled when she wanted to pop back in the house... lol... I think it would be a normal reaction.
ReplyDeleteI think I would be tempted to read more, wanting to find out about the new neighbour and how they interact.
ReplyDelete