Record Play Pause by Stephen Morris: A Witty Memoir of Joy Division
Stephen Morris’s Unique Journey
kevinrunsblog.com– Record Play Pause & The Lies You Told: Top Reads. Stephen Morris never really got on with formal education, as he reveals in the early parts of his excellent memoir. However, what he lacked in classroom enthusiasm, he made up for with a passion for reading. Libraries, bookstores, and record stores became his sanctuaries, where his love for music—and surprisingly, literature—flourished.
A memorable radio recommendation
After hearing Morris on Radio 4’s A Good Read, I ordered Record Play Pause. His enthusiasm and insightful commentary on the books being discussed impressed me, particularly his introduction to the unconventional world of author David Keenan. This encounter heightened my anticipation for diving into Morris’ memoir.
An engaging narrative
Starting a memoir can be daunting, as many are launched with great fanfare only to disappoint. Fortunately, Morris’ attention to detail, evident in his music, shines through in his writing as well. His humble self-awareness is a refreshing aspect of this narrative, which covers his childhood, teenage years, and Joy Division’s brief yet impactful career. Fans will be delighted to know that Morris promises Part II covering the New Order era.
Avoiding the Easy Route
Morris could have easily focused on Ian Curtis, Joy Division’s iconic lead singer, to boost the book’s appeal. Instead, he chooses to tell his own story with honesty and humility. While the tragic suicide of Curtis is addressed, Morris does so with tenderness, avoiding melodrama or sensationalism. His fondness for Curtis is clear, but he never overshadows his own narrative.
Appealing to Music Lovers
While the book might resonate most with fans of Joy Division, New Order, or those familiar with the music scene of the time, it’s also a delightful read for anyone with an interest in music or literature. Morris’ account of Joy Division’s association with Factory Records and the legendary Hacienda nightclub is eloquent and detailed. Stephen Morris writes with a subtly humorous and thoughtful voice that is a delight to read. His memoir not only enriches the reader’s understanding of Joy Division but also provides a deeply personal perspective on a pivotal era in music history.
Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone with The Lies You Told by Harriet Tyce
Join the Blog Tour
I was thrilled to be asked to join the blog tour for Harriet Tyce’s second novel, The Lies You Told. As soon as the book arrived, I eagerly dove in, barely letting the postman’s hand release it!
A quick claim
My wife had really enjoyed Tyce’s debut, Blood Orange, so I had to act fast to claim The Lies You Told before she could. The book promised dark and chilling plot twists, a departure from my usual reading preferences, but joining the blog tour encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. I’m so glad I did.
Sadie’s Story Begins: A Return to London
The story follows Sadie, who is forced to leave her life in America and return to London, the city of her childhood. Her life has taken a dark turn with her husband, and she escapes with her daughter, Robin. By fleeing her present life, she inadvertently revisits a past she had previously rejected.
Confronting the past
Returning to her childhood home, Sadie confronts haunting memories of a strained relationship with her late mother. The novel weaves together the mystery of her husband’s behavior in America with the unraveling of her mother’s last wishes, cleverly revealing these truths layer by layer.
A Tense and Layered Narrative
As the plot progresses, new characters add texture and depth to the story, building tension and drama. The narrative’s pacing is reminiscent of a well-executed marathon where the intensity gradually increases. Rather than revealing all the twists early on, Harriet Tyce keeps the reader hooked, eager to see where the story leads next.
School Gate Politics: A New Challenge
Back in London, Sadie enrolls her daughter in the competitive school she once attended, only to find herself entangled in school gate politics. The fellow moms are particularly cruel and elitist, making it difficult for Sadie to fit in. Meanwhile, Robin faces similar challenges inside the school. The portrayal of education among the upper classes is shockingly vicious, with parents harboring deeply sinister secrets.
A legal thriller unfolds
As Sadie reconnects with an old friend and returns to the legal profession as a junior barrister, she finds herself defending a teacher accused of an inappropriate relationship with a student. The twists come fast and furious as Sadie navigates the complexities of her legal case, the anxieties of the school community, and the lingering mystery of her failing marriage.
An Unreliable Narrator
Throughout the book, Tyce skillfully inserts vignettes of Sadie’s thoughts, hinting at dramas yet to unfold. These moments plant seeds of doubt in the reader’s mind before the narrative returns to the present. The story is told in Sadie’s voice, adding an intriguing layer of uncertainty, as the reader sometimes knows more than she does, raising questions about her reliability as a narrator.
A must-read psychological thriller
The Lies You Told is perfect for readers seeking a multi-layered thriller that gradually intensifies with each page. It’s also ideal for those who enjoy trying to figure out who can and cannot be trusted. Be warned, though—you may finish the book still questioning the trustworthiness of certain characters.
Harriet Tyce’s Background
Harriet Tyce’s background in law and creative writing shines through in this richly detailed courtroom drama. Her ability to weave suspense and psychological complexity makes The Lies You Told a standout in the genre.