Dave Newell

Undoubtedly clever and well written, I wish I could say I enjoyed Dave Newell's gothic novel. I certainly raced through the story in record time, unable to put the book down for all the wrong reasons, but I didn't really like what I was reading. Miserable characters, simple yet twisted plot, and I just knew that Hannah the red lory (parrot) was not in for a happy ending.

Douglas Howard is a doctor in a small town, deep in debt and forced into a dark bargain with a wealthy woman whose husband is not dying quickly enough. The doctor's secretary, Dare, is also trapped, but by her own history and her love for Douglas. What, if anything, does the chance purchase of a beautiful red parrot, named Hannah by Douglas, have to do with their troubles?

While still getting to 'know' the characters, I felt some sympathy for both Douglas and Dare, but by the end, the only living creature I pitied was the bird. Newell has crafted a neat little tale, though - like a black and white film with a single splash of red, to paraphrase a better review than mine! The ugly truth unravels slowly, chapter by chapter, unmasking Douglas' desperation and Dare's bitter loneliness, providing just enough details to offer motive if not understanding. I really fell in love with poor little Hannah, even though I don't normally care for birds, and found the ending strange but satisfying.

A good book for losing a few hours.… (more)