*****A Dance to the Music of Time, 2nd Movement by Anthony Powell

Powell’s comic magnum opus is beautifully  illustrated with reflective passages that weave back and forth through time effortlessly.  In short, Dance is a meditative social history which depicts the rhythm of life. It is an understated work that sometimes feels tedious, yet is often hilarious and quietly infectious.  Patience is required when reading Powell, but his literary prowess is an apt reward.

*****From the Shadows by Juan José Millás

Darkly humorous and surreal, this novel delivers! It is psychological and allegorical fiction rolled into one as is revealed through these alluring themes: family secrets, jealousy, love, voyeurism, madness and murder. I thoroughly enjoyed and savored the skill, pure imagination and creativity of this talented author. From the Shadows is the first of Millás' novels to be published in North America. I look forward to future translations of his other work. A true treat!