Every Tuesday I host First Chapter First Paragraph Tuesday Intros sharing the first paragraph, maybe two, of a book that I'm reading or plan to read soon. This week's book is a soon to be released novel by a favorite author: Elinor Lipman.
On Turpentine Lane; Elinor Lipman
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt - 2017
1.
What Possessed Me?
"IF I HADN'T BEEN NAIVE and recklessly trusting, would I ever have purchased number 10 Turpentine Lane, a chronic headache masquerading as a charming bungalow? 'Best value in town,' said the ad, which was true, if judging by the price tag alone. I paid almost nothing by today's standards, attributing the bargain to my mother's hunch that the previous owner had succumbed while in residence. Not so off-putting, I rationalized; don't most people die at home? On moving day my next-door neighbor brought me a welcome loaf of banana bread along with the truth about my seller. A suicide attempt...sleeping pills...she's saved them up till she had enough, poor thing. And who could blame her? 'Strong as an ox,' she added. 'But a whole bottle?' She tapped the side of her head."
Based on this intro, would you read more or pass on this book?
Feel free to join in by posting your own First Chapter First Paragraph Intro and linking below.
Feel free to join in by posting your own First Chapter First Paragraph Intro and linking below.
Oh yes, sounds intriguing.
ReplyDeleteGlad u liked the sound of this one, I'm enjoying it a lot.
DeleteOh, I like this author, and this one sounds fascinating.
ReplyDeleteLipman is a favorite and this is a fun one so far.
DeleteI like the author's writing style in the opening and would definitely keep reading. Great dialogue at the end of the paragraph. Very realistic.
ReplyDeleteThank you for hosting First Chapter / First Paragraph.
I love the writing as well and this is really good so far.
DeleteI'm curious and I'd like to read more. Enjoy, Diane.
ReplyDeleteThanks Margot, this is a good one.
DeleteYes I do like the sound of this - very intriguing indeed!
ReplyDeleteCleo, I'm liking the writing and story so far.
DeleteYep, I'm curious -- I would keep going for sure.
ReplyDeleteIt's fun so far - part mystery as well.
DeleteYes, I'd have to read further to see what happens next.
ReplyDeleteI think you will like this one.
DeleteElinor Lipman has a new book?! You just made my day :)
ReplyDeleteYes, it comes out next month, so good so far.
DeleteI've actually never heard of this author.. I'd continue reading. Hope you enjoy!
ReplyDeleteOh you need to try her Inn at Lake Devine is a favorite.
DeleteI used your first paragraph idea when writing my review of Ann Patchett's The Magician's Assistant, posted on my blog yesterday. http://keepthewisdom.blogspot.com/2017/01/the-magicians-assistant.html
ReplyDeleteOff to check it out Judy.
DeleteThat is very well written and I would read more too!
ReplyDeleteI thought so as well Brian.
DeleteI'd read it because I'd want to know the truth about how she died...and probably ask enough questions to really tick someone off! :p
ReplyDeleteLOL - it's funny yet part mystery.
DeleteFirst, I'm not sure I would want to live on a street called Turpentine Lane. That's a little off-putting in itself, but the writing of this opening scene is done brilliantly. This sounds like just the thing I would read. Enjoy!
ReplyDeletehttps://girlof1000wonders.wordpress.com/2017/01/10/tuesday-teaser-intro-somebody-like-you/
I agree but, it was cheap LOL
Deleteintriguing
ReplyDeleteWhat a great intro. I want to know more. Plus I love the title.
ReplyDeleteIt sure is an unusual title.
DeleteI agree with others about the name of the lane — rather off-putting — but I like the easy writing style and the hint that something is definitely amiss. I'd keep reading. Thanks for sharing!
ReplyDeleteIt is an odd title (name for a street).
DeleteI would definitely keep reading. :)
ReplyDeleteVery good so far.
DeleteI haven't read Lipman in quite a while but I would give this one a go. Hope you enjoy!
ReplyDeleteI'm enjoying it so far.
DeleteSuspenseful. I want to know more!
ReplyDeleteOh my goodness, this sounds great. I love the voice, and the cover is awesome. Yes, I would definitely keep reading.
ReplyDelete