Bloc magazine autumn 24.

55 We Solve Murders. Richard Osman. Ex-policeman Steve Wheeler enjoys his quiet retirement, but his world gets a jolt when his daughter-in-law, Amy, a body- guard, gets assigned to protect famous mystery writer Rosie D'Antonio on a se- cluded island. When a murder disrupts the tranquility, Amy calls upon Steve's detective skills to help solve it. Despite their contrasting personalities – Steve methodical, Amy impulsive – they form an unlikely team. This humorous whodunit by Richard Osman is the first in a new series featuring this unconvention- al family detective duo. Matt Haig. The Life Impossible. Retired maths teacher Grace inherits a ramshackle house on a Mediterranean is- land from a long-lost friend. Intrigued by the mystery and her friend's fate, Grace embarks on a solo adventure to Ibiza. With no plan or guidebook, she explores the island's beauty while searching for answers. As she delves deeper, she uncovers a truth stranger than fiction, forcing her to confront her own past. The journey be- comes one of self-discovery, filled with wonder and adventure. Ultimately, "The Life Impossible" explores the power of new beginnings and finding hope even in the unexpected. The Hitchcock Hotel. Stephanie Wrobel. A group of strangers check into a remote hotel for a weekend, each harbouring dark secrets. As the storm outside intensifies, the guests discover the unsettling history of the hotel and its previous owner, a reclu- sive filmmaker. Mysterious occurrences and chilling events unfold, trapping them in a nightmarish game of survival. Suspicion and paranoia grow as they real- ise one among them may be a murderer. In this psychological thriller, they must uncover the truth before the hotel's eerie legacy claims another victim. Intermezzo. Sally Rooney. A profound exploration of a young couple's turbulent relationship, "Intermezzo" delves into the com- plexities of love, communication, and personal growth. Set against the backdrop of con- temporary Dublin, the story navi- gates their struggles with vulner- ability and intimacy, intertwined with their respective aspirations and insecurities. Through candid dialogue and in- trospective narrative, the protag- onists confront their emotional barriers, revealing the profound impact of past experiences on their present. Odyssey. Stephen Fry. Stephen Fry's Odyssey is a capti- vating retelling of the epic journey of Odysseus, blending humour and modern insights with the classic tale. Following the Trojan War, Odys- seus encounters mythical creatures, vengeful gods, and countless obsta- cles on his ten-year voyage home to Ithaca. Fry's narrative brings to life the he- ro's cunning, bravery, and resource- fulness, making ancient myths acces- sible and entertaining. The book is a rich tapestry of adventure, tragedy, and triumph, showcasing Fry's wit and storytelling prowess while pre- serving the timeless essence of Hom- er’s epic.