Uki & The Swamp Spirit by Kieran Larwood
Another story within a story of Uki’s attempt to capture the third escaped evil spirit, this one infecting a swamp and its inhabitants. Pacey with great new characters and Uki’s usual friends. Fine use of dialect to help with the world-building. The narrator and his companion are in trouble too! Lots of twists and tension. 8.5 out of 10. Oct 2021
The Ex Husband by Karen Hamilton
Lottie and her ex husband used to con cruise guests out of their money, but only the rich ones who could afford it. Years later, after an acrimonious divorce somebody threatens to reveal Lottie’s dark past. Is it her husband or someone else out for revenge? Good use of a dual timeline to eke out the backstory while building the tension. 8 out of 10. Oct 2021
Old Baggage by Lissa Evans
A delightful story set in the 1920s about Mattie, a suffragette who is trying to find purpose in her life after women get the vote. Sexism is still rife and Mattie’s well-intentioned brusqueness often lands her in trouble. Full of wit as well as poignant moments, this is a delightful story full of endearing characters with an unexpected but almost inevitable ending. 9 out of 10. Oct 2021
The Curse of the Dearmad by Emma Mylrea
An delightful eco-adventure that draws from Scottish myth as well as the story of the Golden Fleece. Nell, Perry and Connor are three kids on a mission, helped by a strong cast of adult characters. A pacey read. 8 out of 10. Sep 2021
Shooting Martha by David Thewlis
A powerful study of trauma and guilt, set in the world of film sets and zoom meetings. Darkly funny, beautifully written and and terrific atmosphere throughout. Works well as a thriller as Betty uncovers the truth about Martha. 9 out of 10. Sep 2021
The Outlaws Scarlett & Browne by Jonathan Stroud
A lawless Britain is the dystopian setting for this western-style adventure. Scarlett and Albert are terrific main characters, with delightful voices and great chemistry. Dialogue is full of wit and the pacing/action is superb. 9 out of 10. Sep 2021
Vi Spy by Maz Evans
Lots of zany fun for Valentine Day, in the James-Bond type spoof, as the plucky girl tries to reconcile a mum and dad who are super spies and super villains, respectively. Everything is a bit OTT, but there are great characters, some fab set pieces and the ending delivers plenty of scope for a sequel. 8 out of 10. Aug 2021
Phosphate Rocks by Fiona Erskine
A dead body is found while an old chemical plant is being demolished, and the police bring in an old foreman of the plant to help piece together the clues and solve the mystery. Part science lesson, part homage to the author’s old job, this is an enjoyable and very unusual blend. 8 out of 10. Aug 2021
Memory Thieves by Darren Simpson
Cyan lives at the Elsewhere Sanctuary, being treated to help forget a past trauma. When he finds a secret message and a new patient disappears, Cyan sets out to discover the truth about his world. Great setting, strong characters. Very enjoyable. 8.5 out of 10. Aug 2021
Meltdown by Ben Elton
A novel about the excesses of British life at the start of the 21st century and the aftermath of the financial crisis. The story focuses on Jimmy – ex-trader up to his eyeballs in debt as his property portfolio goes south. Sharply observed and plenty of fun, if not quite laugh out loud and a bit long. 7 out of 10. July 2021
Piranesi by Susanna Clarke
Piranesi lives in the House – a strange world with almost limitless rooms, clouds on the top floor, tidal water in the lower floors. He meets his friend, the Other, twice a week, but when messages start appearing, Piranesi must discover the truth about his existence and choose sides. Wonderful voice, beguiling setting, full of intrigue. 9 out of 10. July 2021
Shipwreck Island by Struan Murray
Seth and Ellie, having escaped the City in book one, arrive at a new island. The queen of this island seems to be a kindly Vessel, like Seth. But Hargath arrives on the trail of Ellie, and the island has plenty of unpleasant surprises for her and Seth to discover. Lots of twists and turns in this pacey sequel. 8 out of 10. July 2021
The Life & Time of Lonnie Quicke by Kirsty Applebaum
Lonny lives isolated in the forest with brother, Dad and Grandad. Lonny is a lifeling, able to breathe life into dying things but at a cost to himself. Dad tries to keep him away from the local town, but Lonny wants to see what’s out there. Emotional, distinctive and thought provoking. 8.5 out of 10. June 2021
Skysteppers by Katherine Rundell
High above the streets of Paris, Matteo eeks out a lonely existence until he meets a girl who has sworn to protect two old ladies. When the kids find a clue to a long-lost treasure they begin a desperate search across the city for the riches that might save the old ladies. Great characters and pacey adventure. 8 out of 10. June 2021
Bearmouth by Liz Hyder
Newt lives and works underground in a mine called Bearmouth. Life is hard, pennies are precious and Newt’s tight group works well together until the mysterious Devlin turns up and changes everything. Newt discovers the bitter truth about the mine and decides to do something about it. 9 out of 10. June 2021
Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell
The story of the death of Shakespeare’s son told through the eyes of his wife. There are supernatural elements in this which seemed odd for a historic novel, a slow beginning but beautifully written and very moving. Odd mix of very short and incredibly long chapters. 8.5 out of 10. May 2021
Strangeworlds Travel Agency by LD Lapinski
Flick Hudson discovers a shop with suitcases that lead to other worlds and proves to have a unique skill. A strong concept but the story plods a bit at the start with not enough peril. Jonathan (who runs the shop) seems to do most of the hard work. 7.5 out of 10. May 2021
IQ by Joe Ide
Isaiah Quintabe is a high-school drop out with no family but a fabulous intellect who helps solve crimes the LAPD are too busy/too lazy to deal with. He lands a big-bucks case with help from his old flatmate. Gradually the backstory of these two characters is revealed. Taut, atmospheric, spawned a dozen sequels. 8 out of 10. May 2021
The Nutshell Technique by Jill Chamberlain
A very useful guide to movie script writing that takes the standard three-act structure and shows how interlinking the character and plot elements really helps to maximise a movie’s impact. Quite straightforward once you know the formula but lots of examples to help show it working in classic movies. 8.5 out of 10. Apr 2021
Save The Cat Writes A Novel by Jessica Brody
This book uses the Blake Snyder beat sheet and applies it to the novel form. A nice expansion of how to give the finale one last twist. And a list of vital ingredients for different genres. Good advice on what makes a memorable hero, as well as writing a logline and snappy synopsis. 8.5 out of 10. Apr 2021
The Chessmen Thief by Barbara Henderson
A brilliant historical adventure story about a Scottish boy who as thrawl to viking craftsmen learns how to carve chess pieces. He embarks on a trip back to the Hebrides with a cunning plan to find his mother. Pacey, atmospheric and full of great characters with twists aplenty. 9 out of 10. May 2021
The Pretty One by Clare Boyd
A dark tale about the perils of a modelling career for young women, but one that also deals with sibling rivalry among step-sisters, a mother’s sacrifices for her children and regrets about opportunities missed. There’s a lot packed in! Once the set-up is delivered, it’s a pacey read with a satisfying ending. 7.5 out of 10. Mar 2021
Orphans of the Tide by Struan Murray
A highly imaginative adventure in a strange, beguiling setting. Ellie and Seth are brilliant lead protagonists and the baddies are equally well fleshed out. Hooks you from the start and keeps you guessing with lots of twists and action. The ending leaves lots of questions unanswered but sets up book two perfectly. 8 out of 10. Mar 2021
Show Us Who You Are by Elle McNicoll
Cora makes friends with fellow neuro-divergent Adrien and discovers his dad’s Pomegranate Institute is using hologram technology to bring people back to life. A great celebration of individuality, although I wasn’t wholly convinced by the plot. 7 out of 10. Apr 2021
Juliet Naked by Nick Hornby
Annie’s boyfriend is obsessed with reclusive rock star Tucker Crowe. But Annie ends up meeting Crowe and she realises everything that’s wrong with her current boyfriend. Crowe meanwhile muses on what a mess he’s made of his life. Gently amusing, but also quite philosophical on life and love. Slow start, good ending. 7.5 out of 10. Feb 2021
Winter Dark by Alex Callister
A young woman is recruited to the secret service: she’s a hacker, a brilliant snow-boarder and lethal with a blade. She takes it upon herself to track down the master criminal behind a disturbing new killing game on the dark web. But he’s expecting her. And he’s not what she thinks. High-octane action, sex and violence. A bit OTT for me. 7 out of 10. Feb 2021
The Gift of Dark Hollow by Kieran Larwood
Part two of Podkin One-Ear’s adventures. Having rescued dozens of rabbits from the Gorm, Podkin and the others are hiding in Dark Hollow. He finds another of the Goddess’ gifts. When another gift is in danger of falling into the hands of the Gorm, a dangerous quest begins. Pax, Pook and new heroes emerge and Podkin starts growing up. Cracking fantasy adventure. 9 out of 10. Mar 2021
Man At The Helm by Nina Stibbe
A mother and children move to an English village in the 70s after a divorce. The villagers view this single woman with suspicion, but her daughters take it upon themselves to find mum a new man. It doesn’t go well at first but gradually they all find their feet. Plenty of droll humour and nostalgia. 7.5 out of 10. Jan 2021
The Devil & The Dark Water by Stuart Turton
Set onboard a 17th century sailing ship, the voyage from the Far East starts with a macabre prophecy of doom which only days into the journey seems to be coming true. A case for the famous Samuel Pipps and his trusty assistant Arent Hayes, with unlikely help from a married woman. Dark, twisty, crime plot in a fantastic setting. 8.5 out of 10. Jan 2021
The Tobacconist by Robert Seethaler
A country boy, Franz, moves to Vienna in 1938 to start a career as a shop assistant. He learns about the wider world, about love and meets the famous psychologist Professor Freud. But as the Nazis sweep to power, Frank’s life goes downhill fast as he loses his employer and his girlfriend and finally Freud. Tender and moving. 8.5 out of 10. Jan 2021
Uki & The Outcasts by Kieran Larwood
A great addition to the Podkin universe with this tale of Uki’s mission to capture five escaped, evil spirits. He’s joined by fellow outcasts Jori and Kree, but of course there’s a baddie after the spirits too. Another tale within a tale, with the bard narrator and apprentice Rue getting into their own adventure. 9 out of 10. Nov 2020
Ready Player Two by Ernest Cline
Picking up soon after the events of book one, Wade Watts discovers a new challenge within the Oasis that only he can solve. Trouble is there’s a problem with the new headsets that give access to the virtual world. If Wade doesn’t solve the puzzle in time, billions could die. Great, geeky fun again, more movie and music than video games this time. 8 out of 10. Dec 2020
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie
Considered by many to be the author’s greatest whodunnit, this story sees Poirot come out of retirement to help his neighbour, Dr Sheppard, investigate the murder of the wealthy businessman who lives in the village, shortly after his girlfriend is found dead from a suspected overdose. Great twist at the end. 8 out of 10. Dec 2020
Sweet Sorrow by David Nicholls
Charlie Lewis is bored the summer after his GSCEs until he meets Fran at the local am dram group. She turns his world upside down and helps him escape from his depressed Dad and Mum who is now living with someone else. Captures the wonder and fear of youth and first love very well. 8 out of 10. Nov 2020
A Boy Called Hope by Lara Williamson
Dan Hope’s dad left home a long time ago, but Dan has a secret plan to meet him again and regain his love. His Mum is in a new relationship but can Dan and his sister trust this new bloke. An hilarious and poignant tale of family and friendship. 8 out of 10. Nov 2020
Mrs Dalloway by Virginia Woolf
A day in the life of a 1920s upper class lady preparing for an evening party in London. Lots of vignettes from other party guests during the day, including her old flame and a war veteran suffering from PTSD. The writing style felt far too jumpy, over-hyped with emotion and awash with metaphors. 5 out of 10. Nov 2020
The Super Miraculous Journey of Freddie Yates by Jenny Pearson
When grandma dies, Freddie sets out with his friends on a quest to Wales. Cue for: onion eating, superhero costumes, TV appearances, thieves, exploding toilets and maybe a miracle or two. Hilarious, emotional and well paced. This will make you laugh and cry – it’s a gem. 9 out of 10. Oct 2020
Clifftoppers: The Arrowhead Moor Adventure by Fleur Hitchcock
A modern re-boot for a Famous Five type adventure as four children on holiday in Devon uncover jewel thieves right on their doorstep. The kids spy on them and set up a trap to catch them. Can they stay one step ahead and help bring the criminals to justice? A nice wholesome adventure. 7.5 out of 10. Oct 2020
The Highland Falcon Thief by MG Leonard and Sam Sedgman
Harrison Beck is taken on steam train the Highland Falcon’s last outing. When he realises there’s a stowaway girl on board and jewels are going missing, he’s determined to get to the bottom of the mystery. But that’s not easy when there are royalty and police on board. Chuffin’ marvellous. 8 out of 10. Oct 2020
Gargantis by Thomas Taylor
Another adventure for Herbert Lemon and friends. When a fabled storm threatens to wipe out Eerie-on-Sea and a strange bottle containing a sprightning washes up on shore, Herbie has to face his worst fears to save the town. Epic setting, epic story-telling, I can’t wait for book 3 in the series. 8.5 out of 10. Sep 2020
Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
A story within a story. An author’s editor receives his latest murder-mystery novel, but with the last chapter missing. She sets out to solve the case and becomes embroiled in a real-life murder mystery involving the author. Clever pastiche of Agatha Christie but a little disjointed for me. 7.5 out of 10. Sep 2020
The Boy Who Grew Dragons by Andy Shepherd
Tomas discovers a strange tree at the bottom of his grandad’s garden. Its strange fruit hatches into a dragon and Tomas has to learn to look after his new, magical but naughty pet. While keeping it a secret. Lots of slap-stick and chaos at the start of this fun series. 8 out of 10. Sep 2020
Half A World Away by Mike Gayle
Kerry, a single mum in a London housing estate reaches out to Noah, a successful lawyer – the little brother she lost contact with after a troubled childhood involving care homes and adoption. As they reunite, a chain of events trigger huge changes for everyone they know. The plot is too slow and the characters too stereotypical. 6.5 out of 10. Aug 2020
Mima Malone by Kate Poels
Something weird is happening to Mima’s school mates: blue mouths, webbed feet, green spots and worse. Is it related to her strange new neighbours or even the dentist? Mima & friends investigate, uncovering a fiendish plot and the reason why Billy is such a bully. Lots of fun, adventure and a nice trail of clues to follow. 8.0 out of 10. Sep 2020
Mr Penguin & the Fortress of Secrets by Alex T Smith
Mr Penguin, Colin & friends crash land near an isolated mountain village, after rescuing a rare gemstone from a criminal gang. But the village pets are disappearing and when Mr Penguin agrees to investigate he uncovers a fiendish plot to take over the world. Can he save the day? Not without help from all his friends. 8 out of 10. Sep 2020
Wonderscape by Jennifer Bell
Arthur, Ren & Cecily investigate a mysterious explosion on their way to school and end up in a real-life adventure game far in the future. Can they get home before the time travel kills them and can they save others who have become trapped in the game? Pacey adventure in a fantastic setting. 8.0 out of 10. July 2020
Big Sky by Kate Atkinson
A trio of golf buddies are embroiled in a human trafficking ring, but their empire is crumbling as loose ends fray. Private Investigator Brodie, and two coppers following up a decades old case, get sucked into the case as a child is kidnapped. Full of wit to offset the darkness and pacey. 8.0 out of 10. July 2020
A Mummy Ate My Homework by Thiago de Moraes
School swot Henry gets sucked through a time warp into ancient Egypt where he needs to learn some new skills fast if he’s going to stay alive. He makes friends with the Pharaoh’s children and helps defeat some river pirates before finally finding his way back to the present. A highly illustrated, fun adventure. 7.5 out of 10. Aug 2020
Devil Darling Spy by Matt Killeen
Sarah and the Captain are back for another WWII daring mission. This one involving deadly diseases in Africa and lots of double-crossings. More complicated and slower than book one, with more attitude which distracts from the action. Sarah is angry and the Captain morose. 7.0 out of 10. June 2020
Keeping Mum by James Gould-Bourn
Danny and son are struggling to cope with the loss of Danny’s wife. Desperate for money, Danny becomes a busking, dancing panda. Lots of humour mixed with tender moments. Characters are great, especially a cake-making man mountain Ivan, and potty-mouthed lap dander. 8.5 out of 10. June 2020
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro
Kathy H, now 31, looks back on her time at Hailsham, a special school, with friends Ruth and Tommy. As this troubled trio slowly discover, their destinies are already laid out for them. Troubling, subtle dystopia full of love, regret and Ishiguro’s signature style. 8.5 out of 10. June 2020
Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owen
Kya Clark lives in the marsh near Berkley Cove, abandoned by her family with the birds and the swamp for company. Two men enter her life, one ruinously, the other with joy. Part romance, part murder mystery told in dual timeline. Captivating and thrilling. 9.0 out of 10. May 2020
Habibi by Craig Thompson
A graphic novel about Dobola and Zam, two orphaned children in a fictional Middle Eastern state. A troubling tale of slavery, corruption and redemption. The artwork is breathtaking. The plot is meandering, the time-frame jumbled. Provocative and strange. 7.5 out of 10. May 2020
Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo
Tommo Peaceful blames himself for his father’s death. Growing up with Charlie and Big Joe, Tommo is gutted that Charlie gets the girl he fancies, Molly. World War One arrives and he joins up along with his brother, but only one of them comes back alive. Tender, heart breaking and masterful. 9 out of 10. May 2020
The Lie by Hilary Boyd
Romy’s married life to high-flying barrister Michael is shattered when a letter arrives accusing him of assault on a young woman. Can she believe the letter or the denials of her husband? Carefully plotted, an easy page-turner, slightly predictable. 7.5 out of 10. Apr 2020
Troofriend by Kirsty Applebaum
The story of Sarah’s new robotic companion, called Ivy. The whole story is from her POV and with her quirky language; the author does a great job with Ivy’s voice. The story deals with their developing friendship, human attitudes to artificial intelligent and morality. 8.5 out of 10. Apr 2020
The Music Shop by Rachel Joyce
Frank owns a vinyl record shop. In walks Ilse, a German woman and they fall in love. Both have dark pasts and Frank’s small street community is on the brink of disappearing. Full of delightful characters, but the plot is a bit strained at times. 7.5 out of 10. Apr 2020
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
A suspenseful gripping psychological story that starts off as a genteel romance. Brilliant characters, and setting. Perhaps a bit slow in the opening act for me. But a wonderful, ground-breaking novel. 9 out of 10. Mar 2020
Moonlocket by Peter Bunzl
Part 2 of the steampunk adventures of Lily, Malkin and Robert whose family is the main focus of this story about a stolen jewel and an escaped thief. Plenty of pace and inventiveness with added tenderness. 8 out of 10. Mar 2020
Lud-in-the-Mist by Hope Mirrlees
A story about a town that has severed connections with Faerie Land but illicit contact is being maintained. Elements of murder-mystery, fantasy and Shakespeare. The style is dated, but very interesting. 7.5 out of 10. Mar 2020
Early Rise by Jasper Fforde
Typically brilliant invention of Britain in an ice age where most humans hibernate for 6 months of the year. Charlie Worthing is one of those who stays awake to look after the sleepers but this is one winter he won’t forget in a hurry. 8.5 out of 10. Feb 2020
Cogheart by Peter Bunzl
Classic steampunk adventure for Lily and her pet mechanimal Malkin and new friend Robert. Lovely twists, baddies and the setting is very engaging. I’ve already started the sequel! 8.5 out of 10. Feb 2020
The Insider by Mari Hannah
Police procedural that keeps you guessing right to the end. The second outing for DCI David Stone and DS Frankie Oliver. Good chemistry between them and the detail of police work is very satisfying. 8 out of 10. Feb 2020
In The Shadow Of Heroes by Nicholas Bowling
Cadmus tries to help his master retrieve the Golden Fleece for the mad Emperor Nero, with help from a Briton slave girl, Tog. An unlikely hero, lots of twists and very credible relationships. Unusual ending but most satisfying. 8 out of 10. Jan 2020
On Writing by Stephen King
A mixture of autobiography and sound advice on how to write better stories/novels. Plenty of nuggets to help the budding writer and King’s life has been pretty interesting too! 8.5 out of 10. Jan 2020
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
A soap opera plot of multiple characters set in a Stepford-Wives type community. The story centres on motherhood and pregnancies. Male characters are rather weakly written. Perspective keeps flipping which distanced me from the characters. 7 out of 10. Jan 2020
0.4 by Mike Lancaster
Kyle Straker’s remarkable story, discovered by an advanced civilisation, explains how he and a few others survived a strange illness that blighted nearly all humans because he was in a hypnotic trance. Clever concept, short, some good characterisation. 7.5 out of 10. Nov 2019
They Call Me The Cat Lady by Amy Miller
Nancy Jones lives with 5 cats and a dark history. A chance encounter and helping the neighbour’s bullied son helps bring out the truth and allow Nancy to reconnect with friends. Will appeal to fans of Eleanor Oliphant/Ove. Enjoyable, easy read. 7.5 out of 10. Nov 2019
There May Be A Castle by Piers Torday
Mouse Mallory and his family suffer a car crash on Christmas Eve. Mouse wakes up in a strange land, on a quest to find a castle which might just save his family back in the real world. Deeply moving, fantastical tale. 8 out of 10. Dec 2019
MUD by Emily Thomas
After Lydia’s mum dies, her dad re-marries a divorcee and the combined families move into a cramped, cold, leaky Thames barge. At a new school, Lydia faces teenage tribulations while her dad turns to drink. 80s setting is great. A serious (but still funny) version of Adrian Mole. 7.5 out of 10. Oct 2019
The Peculiars by Kieran Larwood
Sheba is a girl with fur and wolf fangs. Sold to be in a Victorian London freak show, the rest of the cast become her new family. When children start going missing from the Thames, the Misfits are asked to investigate. They uncover a cruel mastermind but also a secret into Sheba’s past. Thrills and twists aplenty. 8 out of 10. Oct 2019
The Wall by John Lanchester
Kavanagh has been assigned to a 2-year stint guarding The Wall – the massive barrier that keeps all Others out of Britain. If a guard fails in their duty, they are thrown outside The Wall. What would it be like out there? Fantastic concept, chilling dystopia. Third act not great. 7 out of 10. Oct 2019
ZED by Joanna Kavenna
Guy Matthias is CEO of Beetle, one of the most powerful tech companies. But his life unravels when his products start malfunctioning. Clever vision of where tech is taking us. Feels like 1984 at times, but with wit. Hard to empathise with the characters though. 7.5 out of 10. Sep 2019
Breakfast in Bogota by Helen Young
Luke Vosey is a British architect in post-war Colombia trying to help modernise the capital. A story of Luke’s past shame, a new love and the political machinations of a country on the brink of revolution. Very evocative of the time and place. 8.5 out of 10. Sep 2019
The Last by Hanna Jameson
Jon Keller is an academic at a conference in the Swiss alps when nuclear Armageddon sweeps the planet. Are the hotel guests the only ones alive and who killed the girl they find on the roof? Chilling at times, great characters, slightly unsatisfying ending. 7 out of 10. Sep 2019
The Umbrella Mouse by Anna Fargher
The story of Pip Hanway, oprhaned by the blitz and determined to reach Europe during WWII even if means taking on a dangerous mission. Anthropomorphised elements of truth about the resistance and animals’ roles in the war. Pacey young middle-grade story. 7.5 out of 10. August 2019
Jelly by Clare Rees
Martha and her friends are stuck on the back of a giant jellyfish along with a bunch of adults after climate disaster. Even if they can get off, how will they get past the deadly Kriks and survive back on land? Dark but funny, with great characters and well paced. 8.5 out of 10. August 2019
The Man Who Was Thursday by GK Chesterton
Secret Policeman Gabriel Syme infiltrates a society of anarchists to foil their deadly plots but uncovers an unsettling truth about the other anarchists and their leader. Good twists, plenty of dry wit and surprisingly contemporary. 7.5 out of 10. July 2019
Wildspark by Vashti Hardy
Prue Haywood joins Medlock Personifate Guild to see if she can find her dead brother’s soul and restore him to a mechanical personifate. But is a second life in a machine really a good idea? Original and fun, though the plot was a bit predictable and the characters a little light. 8 out of 10. June 2019
The Glittering Hour by Iona Grey
A story that alternates between 1925 and 1935 about upper class Selina’s affair with an artist and later about Selina’s daughter discovering the shocking truth about her mother. Very evocative and emotional climax but not really my cup fo tea. 7 out of 10. July 2019
Malamander by Thomas Taylor
Herbert Lemon and Violet Parma try to discover the truth about her missing parents in the spooky Eerie-on-Sea. Was the legendary Malamander monster involved? Fantastic setting and characters, perfectly set up for more adventures that I can’t wait to read. 9 out of 10. July 2019
The Suspects by Katherine Johnson
Five young graduates buy a house together but when a party ends up with a body in the basement, they make a decision that will define the rest of their lives. How will they live with the decision and how much do they really know about each other. Nicely paced, gripping plot. 8 out of 10. June 2019
The Bees by Laline Paull
Flora 717 was born a lowly sanitation worker bee in a hive in an orchard. But she’s different and is destined to both save and destroy the hive. A brilliant feat of imagination. Totally transports the reader, seeing the world through compound eyes. Elements of Handmaid’s Tale, and still a pacy plot too. Very memorable. 9 out of 10. June 2019
The Deserter’s Daughter by Susanna Bavin
Carrie Jenkins’ world gets turned upside down when she discovers her father was not a war-hero but shot as a deserter. Her fiancee abandons her before she can admit she’s already pregnant. A saga with thriller elements, capturing 1920s Manchester full of well-rounded character. 8 out of 10. May 2019
The Huntress – Sea by Sarah Driver
Mouse’s adventures as her Grandma’s ship is taken over and she is sold into slavery. She needs to rescue her brother and find the Sea Opal before Stag does. Great characters and a real feel for the sea. Fast and furious but some of the escapes seemed a bit convenient. 7.5 out of 10. May 2019
Scavengers by Darren Simpson
Landfill lives inside a wall with Babagoo, following his rules and avoiding the outsiders. But Babagoo isn’t telling the truth and some rules don’t make sense. Very unsettling at first, but beautiful language and a delightfully rounded relationship between the 2 main characters. Memorably different. 9 out of 10. May 2019
The Middler by Kirsty Applebaum
Maggie is a middle child in a town that worships the eldest before sending them off to fight in the Quiet War. Wanderers are made out to be dangerous but Maggie meets one and discovers a shocking truth about the town. Nicely paced, Maggie’s inner voice of doubt is great. Tense and an exciting ending. 8 out of 10. May 2019
Remember Tomorrow by Amanda Saint
A retrospective on Evie’s life from her activism in Reading as society divides and climate catastrophe unfolds, her pregnancy and split from the father, her journey to a coastal survivalist community and her later persecution for witchcraft. Good concept but she’s not very likeable and the world building is a little weak. 7 out of 10. Apr 2019
Life, Death & Cellos by Isabel Rogers
Erin plays in the Stockwell Park Orchestra. It’s facing financial ruin but then somebody inherits a stradivarius that Erin ends up playing in a concert to restore their funding. Plenty of humour, well-observed characters centred on a niche past-time; a bit like an urban version of Detectorists. Enjoyable. 8 out of 10. Apr 2019
No Harm Can Come to a Good Man by James Smythe
ClearVista is the world’s foremost prediction software and when it predicts a terrible future for Laurent Walker – the lead candidate in the US presidency race – his life falls apart. A clever concept and pacey, but he’s not likeable enough to care, and the plot isn’t entirely convincing. 6.5 out of 10. May 2019
Jinxed by Amy McCulloch
Lacey Chu longs to work for Moncha, the company that makes Baku – pet animal robots that have replaced mobile phones. She finds a broken Baku (Jinx), mends it and is accepted into the Moncha academy, but college life is anything but simple. Great concept, part growing up/part battle the evil corporation story. Jinx has a wonderful personality. The book ends on a cliffhanger. 8.5 out of 10. Mar 2019
Here Lies Arthur by Philip Reeve
Gwyna is rescued from slavery by Myrddin and becomes the lady in the lake, among other roles. The Britons are a divided nation and Myrddin is trying to unite them under Arthur’s banner to fight the Saxons. A clever way of imagining how the legend was born, and Gwyna is a sympathetic character in an ugly world. Well paced, gritty realism but a bit gloomy. 7 out of 10. Mar 2019
Railhead by Philip Reeve
Zen Starling is a petty thief, seemingly plucked from obscurity to help Raven and his android assistant Nova to steal a rare artifact. The robbery goes disastrously wrong and soon Zen is running for his life when all he really wants to do is rescue Nova. Brilliant world setting – interstellar trains with personality, Hive Monks etc – some great characters, and cinematic action. 9 out of 10. Mar 2019
Ready Player One by Ernest Cline
Wade Watts races to find the Easter Egg hidden inside the VR world called the Oasis. The founder’s legacy, worth billions, is protected by three fiendish tests based around 1980s pop/film culture, dungeon & dragon clues and video games. IOI corporation will stop at nothing to win the prize. Wade will need help from Artemis and H, two fellow ‘gunters’. Nostalgic, geeky, pacey, fantastic. 9 out of 10. Feb 2019
On Chesil Beach by Ian McEwan
Edward and Florence, both virgins, are ready to consummate their marriage on the first night of their honeymoon. But this is the early 60s, full of awkwardness and Florence is appalled at the idea of such intimacy. Their courtship is told through a series of flashbacks, and then Edward looks back on his life years later. Very sad, delicate. 6 out of 10 for the story, 9 out of 10 for the writing, 7.5 overall? Mar 2019
The Sense of an Ending by Julian Barnes
Tony Webster looks back at his life when a solicitor’s letter informs him of a bequest from an ex-girlfriend’s mother. Veronica was Tony’s first proper girlfriend, but after they split, a school friend Adrian started going out with her. Tony wrote a spiteful letter and Adrian soon commits suicide. Tony is full of regret and must unpick his memories of this troubled time. 8 out of 10. Feb 2019
Nevermoor by Jessica Townsend
Morrigan Crow, cursed to die when she becomes 11, is whisked away by Jupiter North to Nevermoor. To be accepted here she will have to pass the Wunder Society’s increasingly daunting tests. Along the way, she’ll discover a dark secret about the city and herself. Wunderfully entertaining, pacy, with great characters and imagination. 9 out of 10. Jan 2019
Rivers of London by Ben Aaronovitch
A probationary constable discovers he has a talent for magic when he meets a ghost at a murder scene. There’s a serial killers on the loose in London and he’s not of this world. Peter Grant joins the supernatural department of the Met. Ghosts and Crime aren’t my favourite genres, but this is done with great flair and wit. 8 out of 10. Feb 2019
Dogs of War by Adrian Tchaikovsky
Rex is a 7-foot tall dog/human bioform, part of a squad of robotic mercenaries. But when their handlers turns bad, can they dis-obey? And once they have, what rights do they have in the wider world? A well-plotted way of asking big questions on the ethics of AI and evolution. Rex’s internal thoughts are very endearing. 8.5 out of 10. Feb 2019
Orphan Monster Spy by Matt Killeen
A dark and compelling adventure about a 15-year old Jewish girl who is rescued by a British agent. She has to pretend to be a Nazi to fit in at an elite school and try to destroy the work of a German scientist. Brilliantly paced, great characters and an important message about bullying, oppression and the horrors of WWII. 9 out of 10. Jan 2019
The Skylark’s War by Hilary McKay
Clarry’s summers in Cornwall with brother Peter and cousin Rupert are blissful. But WWI begins and Rupert goes off to the front line, leaving Clarry stuck at home with her cold father trying to gain a place at Oxford and worrying about her cousin. A tender tale of family, friendship, women’s rights and the horrors of war. 8 out of 10. Jan 2019
To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee
A brilliant coming-of-age story that deals with racism in the US Deep South during the 1930s depression. Scout’s father, Atticus, is asked to defend a black man who has been accused of raping a white young woman. Also a tale of community life in a small town, seen through Scout’s dry humour. Full of great characters, multiple plot threads, all woven together elegantly. 10 out of 10. Jan 2019
Mr Penguin & The Lost by Alex T Smith
Plenty of fun for low to middle grade readers, with lots of gorgeous illustrations from the author. Some twists, moments of danger and good ending. Colin is an excellent side-kick for Mr Penguin, who himself is a reluctant hero. A good romp. 8 out of 10. Nov 2018
The Feed by Nick Clark Windo
Social media and apps have been inserted directly into human brains. But when the feed goes down, society collapses. Very dark and chilling, with a climate-change message embedded. Unusual lack of chapters, various POV sections. Quite good and soon to be a TV series. 7.5 out of 10. Nov 2018
The Seven Deaths of Evalyn Hardcastle by Staurt Turton
Groundhog days meets Agatha Christie at her grisliest as a man seems trapped to relive the same day over and over again always resulting in Evalyn’s murder. The skill is in the over-lapping interactions of characters and the slow release of information to the reader. Gripping and great characterisation. 8.5 out of 10. Nov 2018
SNAP by Belinda Bauer
12-year old Jack’s mother is murdered and his father can’t cope, abandoning Jack to look after his two younger sisters. He thinks he knows who did it, but getting the police involved isn’t straightforward when your sisters depend on your burglary skills to feed them. Great characterisation and well plotted. 8.5 out of 10. Oct 2018
The Murderer’s Ape by Jakob Wegelius
Sally Jones is a gorilla, first mate on a ship in 1920s Portugal. When the Captain is falsely accused of murder, she sets out to prove him wrong but tracking down the person who can prove that is very hard, especially if you’re an ape. A wonderful old-fashioned adventure, drifts in the middle a little. 8 out of 10. Oct 2018
Three Things About Elsie by Joanna Cannon
84-year old Florence takes a tumble in her flat. Lying there she thinks about the man who recently joined the Cherry Tree care home – she’s sure he died 60 years ago. Is she mad or is there a mystery to be solved? Tender and funny, dealing nicely with dementia though the prose is a little wordy at time. 7.5 out of 10. Oct 2018
Mortal Engines by Phillip Reeve
In the distant future, cities on wheels fight each other for survival. Tom and Hester’s adventures as they try to foil London’s attempts to unleash an ancient weapon of unspeakable power. And try to stay one step ahead of an unstoppable robot assassin. Imaginative, lively and exciting. First in series. 9 out of 10. Sep 2018
The Portal by Andrew Norriss
William and Daniel’s parents go missing and the excuse made by their uncle is suspicious. William finds out his dad looked after an intergalactic portal in the basement and William takes over the responsibility, while trying to uncover what happened to his parents. Satisfying mystery. 8 out of 10. Sep 2018
The Legend of Podkin One-Ear by Kieran Larwood
Podkin, Paz and Pook have to flee their warren when the Gorm invades and kill their father. They escape with a magic dagger that has to be kept out of the Gorm’s hands. A great setting, exciting adventures full of fine characters. Start of a series that I can’t wait to continue. 9 out of 10. Sep 2018
Across the Nightingale Floor by Lian Hearn
A fantasy set in feudal Japan, Takeo is saved from his village’s massacre by Lord Otori and discovers he has secret, magical powers that make him a perfect assassin. Lord Otori wants revenge on Warlord Iida, but inevitably there are complications including a singing (titular) floor and a love story. Part one of five. 7.5 out of 10. Aug 2018
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce
Harold, recently retired, lives in a joyless marriage. A letter informs him that a dear colleague is dying of cancer. Harold goes to post a reply but decides to walk 600 miles to see his friend. A tender journey full of physical and emotional highs and lows. A story of poignant memories and dealing with past mistakes. 8.5 out of 10. Aug 2018
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K LeGuin
A planet in permanent winter, peopled by androgynous people who choose their sexuality each month. Genly Ai is an envoy who becomes embroiled in their politics. He has to be rescued by an exiled politician and begins an epic journey across the ice. Memorable world building and contemplation of gender politics. 8 out of 10. Aug 2018
The Wren Hunt by Mary Watson
Wren lives in a village where the boys hunt her once a year in a warped childhood game. Wren is a witch and the boys are Judges. She goes undercover to find out their secrets and meets a Judge who she falls in love with. Romeo & Juliet. YA romance. Not my cup of tea. 6 out of 10. July 2018
Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky
A terra-formed planet is selected for an experiment with accelerated evolution. It goes wrong and a breed of super spiders is created. Hundreds of year later, after an apocalyptic war, the last of the humans are on an ark and need a new home. The spiders aren’t keen on sharing. Clever, but long. 8 out of 10. July 2018
The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
16-year old Starr is witness to her un-armed friend’s shooting by a policeman. She goes to a posh white-dominated school but lives in a black neighbourhood. There seems no justice for her friend unless Starr speaks out. Brilliant, enlightening, important storytelling of the first order. Great characters. 9 out of 10. July 2018
Dear Mrs Bird by AJ Pearce
Emmy helps an Agony Aunt pen letters during the Blitz, but her boss refuses to answer if there is any ‘unpleasantness’ involved. Emmy takes it upon herself to reply in secret and lands in deep trouble. Very atmospheric, Emmy’s voice is delightful and witty but there’s a serious side to her plucky courage. Loved it. 9 out of 10. May 2018
The Missing Girl by Jenny Quintana
When Anna is 12, her sister goes missing and the mystery remains unsolved. Returning to her home village as an adult when her Mum dies, Anna is determined to find out what really happened. Good depiction of village life, but there was no missing clock and the characters didn’t appeal to me. 6.5 out of 10. June 2018
Witchborn by Nicholas Bowling
Alyce’s mother is killed by a witch-finder at the start of the book and she flees to London. She makes a friend, Solomon, and finds out that both Mary Queen of Scots and Elizabeth I are desperate to get hold of her. Quite dark YA, maybe not for younger readers. Enjoyable and well-paced. 8 out of 10. June 2018
Ancillary Justice by Ann Lecke
Brecq is the last surviving avatar of a once-mighty ship, out for revenge. She needs to find a special gun that can defeat Lord Mianaai’s armour and work out why the Lord is seemingly at war with herself. A slightly baffling story line, told in flash back that slowly makes sense. Excellent world building but didn’t live up to the hype. 7.5 out of 10. Apr 2018
Guilt by Amanda Robson
The story of twins: Zara self-harming and Miranda sensible and trying to look after her sister. When Zara becomes besotted with a new boyfriend, Miranda is torn between happiness for her sister and distrust of the new man. Her fears are founded and the story switches between flash back and Miranda awaiting trial for her sister’s murder. 8 out of 10. Apr 2018
Mad by Chloe Esposito
The start of a trilogy about Alvira Knightley, out-of-control twin sister to Beth. Beth invites Alvie to stay and swap identities for a few hours. The plan goes awry and the number of bodies and bonk scenes soon ratchets up. Mafia, murder, stolen art and Lamborghinis. Clever plot keeps you guessing. Outrageous and thrilling. 9 out of 10. May 2018
The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman
A toddler survives when Jack kills his family, protected through childhood by a graveyard’s residents. Borrowing heavily from The Jungle Book, but given such a magical, urban fantasy make-over that it’s easy to wallow in Gaiman’s genius. Wonderful characters and plot. 9 out of 10. Apr 2018
Runemarks by Joanne M Harris
A story set in a world after the Norse Gods have been defeated, when young Maddy discovers her own magical powers. A good attempt to use this well-known saga for fantasy purposes. But too many coincidences and innocent bystanders who end up being crucial to the plot. 7 out of 10. Apr 2018
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
A brilliant voice of an intelligent but troubled, lonely woman. Full of dry wit, in its light moments reminiscent of Jerome K Jerome. This is also a story of tragic, buried trauma and of the hope driven by small acts of kindness. Enriching and powerful. 9.5 out of 10. Apr 2018
Tin by Padraig Kenny
A group of mechanical children go on an adventure after one of them goes missing. They track down the country’s expert on robots but must battle the son of another expert. A steampunk version of Wizard of Oz. Great characters, tenderness and imagination. A pacy adventure for middle-grade readers (and me). 8.5 out of 10. Mar 2018
Let Me Lie by Clare Mackintosh
Months after Anna loses both parents to identical suicides, a note arrives suggesting foul play. She always felt something was not right but will her investigation bring pain or closure? Full of twists and unreliable narration. An easy page turner. 8 out of 10. Mar 2018
The Perfect Girlfriend by Karen Hamilton
Juliette has lost her pilot boyfriend, Nate, but trains to be cabin crew so she can win him back. Nothing will stand in the way of this obsessive stalker. Past traumas emerge but Nate is facing an unstoppable force. An unusual ending. 8 out of 10. Mar 2018
Reservoir 13 by Jon McGregor
A story of a northern village haunted by the disappearance of a teenage girl. Highly unusual omniscient POV writing style where each chapter covers an entire year of events in snippet form. Distancing at first, but entrancing by the end as you get to know the characters and nature’s rhythms. 8.5 out of 10. Feb 2018
The Last Day by Claire Dyer
When Boyd (plus girlfriend) needs to move back in with his ex-wife for financial reasons, an unusual triangular relationship develops, where each person is weighed down by memories of guilt, loss and love. A well-constructed plot, with a twist at the end. Lots of emotion but not overly sentimental. 8.5 out of 10. Mar 2018
The Ice by Laline Paul
Climate change has brought politics and business to the arctic. A dead body is found and the inquest force the deceased friend and business partner to question himself and others’ motives. An intriguing but not quite gripping plot, saved by an exciting ending. 8 out of 10. Mar 2018
Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor
Karou is a 17 year-old art student in Prague, who happens to have been raised by a demon living on the other side of a portal. Karou meets an angel, trying to destroy her demonic foster father. As her memories of a past life flood back to her, a romance with Akiva the angel reveals itself. Heart-rending. 9 out of 10. Jan 2018
Sleeping Giants by Sylvain Neuvel
When a giant hand that pre-dates all human civilisation is discovered, the race to find the other body parts is on. Who left it behind. And will they come back? Is this technology too dangerous for one country to control? Clever and snappy. World War Z for robots. First in a trilogy. The aliens are on their way… 8.5 out of 10. Feb 2018
The Babylon Idol by Scott Mariani
This is ronseal literature: it does exactly what it says on the tin. Ben Hope has made lots of enemies and one of them is out to get him and all his associates. Ben races to save professor Anna Manzini. A deadly race is on to find an ancient golden idol. And the baddies don’t play fair. Enjoyable, if formulaic, page-turner. 7 out of 10. Feb 2018
Dodgers by Bill Beverly
A gripping literary crime novel about East, a teenage black kid in a drugs gang. Sent on a mission to kill a judge with his estranged brother and two others, the road trip reveals much about America, the boy and his choices. Well paced, subtle tension and sympathetic characters. You’re rooting for East despite his misdemeanours. 9 out of 10. Jan 2018
Beetle Boy by MG Leonard
An middle-grade book about a boy called Darkus whose father goes missing in mysterious circumstance. Darkus befriends a beetle that seems to understand him. Lucretia Cutter is a classic villain and Darkus’ mad neighbours are great inventions. Darkus and friends to the rescue! Very enjoyable. 8.5 out of 10. Jan 2018
Sky Song by Abi Elphinstone
In the far North kingdom of Erkenwald, the Ice Queen rules, but some children have evaded capture and are planning to fight back. When one of them rescues a girl called Eska, they realise she holds the key to retrieving the Frost Horn and defeating the queen. Enchanting setting, atmosphere and lovely characters. 8.5 out of 10. Jan 2018
The Reader on the 6:27 by Jean-Paul Didierlaurent
A charming, quixotic love story about a man who rescues pages from a book pulping machine. He discovers pages from a woman’s diary, falls in love and tries to find her. Full of quirky characters and humour. Think Gaiman after a bottle of Pernod. 8 out of 10. Dec 2017
The Ashes of London by Andrew Taylor
Murdered bodies turn up just after the Great Fire dies out in London. Harwood is asked to investigate in an atmosphere of recriminations against the roundheads now that the monarchy is restored. Also the story of a young woman, Cat, who flees from her family. Intertwines very nicely. Atmospheric. 8.5 out of 10. Dec 2017
Tin Man by Sarah Winman
The story of an unlikely love triangle. Ellis is forced to work at the local car factory but yearns for beauty. His friend Michael feels the same, but after Ellis marries, Michael disappears for several years. Tragedy happens when he comes back. Evocative writing, clever structure but a lack of action put me off. 6.5 out of 10. Dec 2017
Dr Jekyll & Mr Seek by Anthony O’Neill
An intriguing sequel to Stevenson’s original. Dr Jekyll’s lawyer is about to inherit his fortune, when an impostor turns up claiming to be Dr Jekyll. Mr Seek knows this is false, but cannot persuade others without ruining his friend’s reputation and memory. Atmospheric and well written. 7.5 out of 10. Nov 2017
Smiler’s Fair by Rebecca Levene
A king’s son is foretold to spell his doom and is whisked away before the king can kill him. The son is the reincarnation of the Moon God and lots of people are after him. A complicated story (slow to get going) of tribal hatred, political machinations, warring gods. Cruel and hard to root for any one character, except the giant talking bat. 7 out of 10. Nov 2017
Leviathan by Paul Auster
A writer, Sachs, blows himself up building a bomb, and a fellow author relates the man’s story. Lots of affairs, friendships and falling-outs, but not much happens until a fatal encounter with a man in the wilderness. Sachs finds money and bomb-making equipment and begins his descent. Dense, slightly dull. 6 out of 10. Nov 2017
The Power by Naomi Alderman
Women discover they have the power to use electric jolts to overpower, even kill others. Women take revenge for their centuries of suppression. Male terror groups try to resist. Eve provokes all-out war, hoping for total annihilation and a new beginning for humanity. Good concept, but too preachy and not enjoyable. 6 out of 10. Oct 2017
Doorways by Robert Enright
The Otherside is a parallel universe, hiding in plain sight of our world. Only a few can see the Others and only one can travel there. Bermuda Jones works for an elite organisation trying to keep us safe. But one of the Others is determined to conquer our world. Enjoyable romp. 8 out of 10. Oct 2017
Stranger of Tempest by Tom Lloyd
A group of mercenaries get hired to help a lady escape a city. But she turns out to be an assassin and soon there is an army on their tail. The only route takes the group through a ruined, underground city. And down there, there are worse things than being chased by an army of fanatics. Very enjoyable. 8 out of 10. Oct 2017
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood
The story of Offred’s life in a totalitarian America. Fertile women are used by the commanders to reproduce. But the resistance and outside world offers hope of escape. What must Offred do to get out? Flashbacks set the scene, revealing just enough each time. Fantastic detail, chilling. 9 out of 10. Sep 2017
Dead Lions by Mick Heron
The second novel about Jackson Lamb and his bunch of misfits in Slough House. An ex-spook is murdered by an ex-KGB man and Lamb suspects there is a sleeper cell ready to be awakened. A high-profile Russian oil baron is visiting London and something’s not quite right. Plenty of twists, humour and pace. 9 out of 10. Sep 2017
Miss Smilla’s Feeling For Snow by Peter Hoeg
A boy falls to his death from a roof. The police conclude accident, his neighbour, Miss Smilla thinks otherwise. She uncovers a trail to repeated expeditions to Greenland, where not everyone comes back. How is this all related? A strong and unusual voice. Very atmospheric. 8 out of 10. Sep 2017
Miss You by Kate Eberlen
The story of Tess and Gus whose lives keep criss-crossing but never quite meeting up. Relationships come and go, lots of affairs. Tess’ story is really the hard-luck when her mother dies and her autistic sister needs caring for. The men in the story are all unsympathetic. Nice flow to the narrative, good observations about family life. 7.5 out of 10. July 2017
Animal Farm by George Orwell
The animals drive out the farmer and start up their own commune run by themselves for themselves. Well meaning rules are set and everything goes well to start with. But soon the pigs exploit the rules for their own benefit and then fight amongst themselves until, Napoleon becomes a despot. Rules are altered, history re-written. And the masses are down-trodden once again. Biting satire. 9 out of 10. August 2017
How to Write Like Tolstoy by Richard Cohen
Non-fiction, looking at what makes a great novel and how different authors go about achieving this. The editor uses lots of fine examples to discuss beginnings, characters, plagiarism, points of view, dialogue, plot, rhythm, editing and endings. Very insightful. 8 out of 10. August 2017
Rules of Civility by Amor Towles
Katie Kontent is determined to be a success in late 1930s New York. She is smart & witty but loses her dream man, Tinker Grey, to her best friend. The plot sagged a little in the middle as Katie drifts in and out of relationships but ends very well. Katie finds out the truth about Tinker, reminiscent of the Great Gatsby. This is written in brilliant evocative style. Full of wry humour, Katie is a heroine worth rooting for. 8 out of 10. June 2017
Station Eleven by Emily St John Mandel
A story that flits between just before and after a flu pandemic wipes out 99% of humanity. It centres around Kirsten, who lives in a travelling caravan troupe and a famous film star who died just as the pandemic hit North America. Several of the actor’s friends survived in different ways and their stories are told in flashback. The future is bleak and scary but full of kindness and love too. Moving. 9 out of 10. July 2017
The May Queen by Helen Irene Young
May’s life is dominated by her Ma, especially after her sister, Sophie, disappears with a baby out of wedlock. May’s heart is stolen by the Lord of the Manor’s son, but she thinks he’s responsible for Sophie’s child. WWII breaks out and May becomes a wren, finding another man, but never falling for him. After the war she is re-united with Sophie and the heart-throb. Very distinctive voice, and the era is well-captured. Accomplished debut. 8 out of 10. July 2017
Electric Souk by Rose McGinty
Aisling moves to Arabia to work for the health service there. Her relationships turn out to be troubling and a potential boyfriend seems crooked. The locals are friendlier but who works for the secret police? As the Arab Spring erupts, she needs to flee the country but whom can she trust? Atmospheric & paranoid, but the passage of time is slightly did-jointed. 7 out of 10. May 2017
Valdez is Coming by Elmore Leonard
A black man is killed accidentally for crime he didn’t commit. Bob V.aldez, town constable, tries to win compensation for the man’s widow from Frank the man who wrongly accused the black man. When Frank’s men beat Valdez and leave him for dead, their only problem is they didn’t finish the job. Valdez is coming to get you. Fine, compact storytelling, very satisfying ending. 9 out of 10. May 2017
Beware the Cuckoo by Julie Newman
Three teenage girls growing up in the late 1970s, one of them abused by another’s father. The story flits between that timeline and the present day when two of the girls are reunited with secrets and scores to settle. The dual timeline reveals just enough information each time to maintain the intrigue. Well-paced easy read. 7 out of 10. June 2017
Funny Girl by Nick Hornby
Barbara turns herself into Sophie and lands a starring role in a TV comedy, her life-long ambition. Evokes the 1960s London scene nicely along with its blatant sexism, homophobia and clash of establishment vs youth. The dialogue is excellent and the interplay of relationships amongst the cast, writers and director very good. Funny but not hilarious. 7 out of 10. May 2017
The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry
Cora Seaborne’s abusive husband dies and frees her to pursue her interests in science and the natural world. Out in Essex, rumours of a serpent drowning people swirl in the beautifully evocative Victorian mists. A minister of the local parish befriends, Cora, much to the annoyance of her London friends. A story about religion vs science and about dealing with the unknown. 8 out of 10. May 2017
Hold Back the Stars by Katie Khan
Two lovers, Carys and Max, are thrown from their spaceship with only 90 minutes of oxygen left. As they struggle to find a way back to the ship they argue and reminisce. A dystopian Earth where young people are meant to serve time for the community before they can settle. Challenging the rules, they are sent into space to be together. Can one of them save the other? I wasn’t that bothered. 6 out of 10. May 2017
The Late Hector Kipling by David Thewlis
A successful artist is jealous of his friend’s nomination for the Turner prize. Hector has a lovely girlfriend and a new exhibition coming up. He thinks he needs some bad news in his life and soon he has more than he can cope with. A self-destructive spiral ensues. Dark, humorous, crackling dialogue and some great one-liners. Ending too downbeat for my tastes. 8 out of 10. Apr 2017
The Alchemist’s Secret by Scott Mariani
The first Ben Hope adventure. Ex-SAS sent on a mission to find an ancient alchemist’s secret that could save the life of a dying child. Soon Hope is trying to stay ahead of the police and a dangerous organisation after the very same thing. Plenty of action and historical code-breaking. Very close to Dan Brown in feel. 7 out of 10. Apr 2017
Storm Front by Jim Butcher
The first Harry Dresden file – he’s a wizard private investigator who helps police solve unusual cases. A missing husband and a grizzly murder are connected, somehow. Magic realism crossed with Ray Chandler gum-shoe detection and lots of action. Harry Potter meets Dirty Harry. Strong cast of supporting characters. Very enjoyable. 8 out of 10. Apr 2017
The Thing Itself by Adam Roberts
A bit like Foucault’s Pendulum, I’m not sure if this is genius or nonsense. High concept sci-fi full of wit and imagination. Some sub-plots irritate and detract. I almost gave up halfway through. A secret institute is researching AI and teleportation, using Kant’s philosophy about The Thing Itself. 2 men on an Antarctic research base, 20 years earlier, are somehow caught up. Good ending, so glad I stuck with it. 7 out of 10. Mar 2017
Rum Punch by Elmore Leonard
The story of a gun runner, Ordell Robbie, who uses and disposes of people at will while the police are trying to entrap him. When Ordell asks Jackie Burke (renamed Brown for the film) to smuggle money for him, and the police want her to help them, Jackie out-foxes them all. Max Cherry, a bail bondsman, wants to help her but stay on the right side of the law. Great story-telling, crossed purposes, razor sharp dialogue. 9 out of 10. Mar 2017
Red Rising by Pierce Brown
Darrow is a Red, a miner who lives inside Mars, struggling to make the planet inhabitable for future generations. But in reality, the planet surface has been lived on for decades and the Reds are slaves for the Golds. A rebel group transform Darrow into a Gold and in the first of this trilogy he must pass through the deadly academy as a winner and into a position of power. 9 out of 10. Mar 2017
Slow Horses by Mick Herron
A sharp, intelligent thriller about the forgotten department of MI5 – Slough House – full of supposed no-hopers headed by Jackson Lamb. A hostage due to be be-headed, double-crossings, plots within plots. Full of dry wit and lively characters that make this a cracking read. 9 out of 10. Feb 2017
The Red Dancer by Richard Skinner
The fictionalised life of Mata Hari, as seen through the eyes of people who knew her. The early, disastrous marriage, the re-invention as an exotic dancer and peak in fame. And then as WWI breaks out, the life as a double agent and eventual execution. The narrative structure keeps the subject lively and ephemeral. 7 out of 10. Feb 2017
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness
The story of a boy coming to terms with his mother’s terminal illness. Bullied at school, an absent father and a strict grandmother pile on the pressure. A monster with attitude – the Green Man – comes to visit, to help in ways that Conor does not expect. Poignant, emotional depth. 9 out of 10. Feb 2017
Good Me Bad Me by Ali Land
This is darkness beyond my comfort zone. A daughter turns in her serial-killer mother to the police. But is the girl destined to be like her mum, or can she start a new life with a foster family? Chilling, taught and very well written. Stays with you long after the book is finished. 8 out of 10. Jan 2017
Dune by Frank Herbert
I read this many times in my youth, returned to it for a book club. The plot remains fantastic. The political machinations, the completeness of the setting is so well thought out, it’s completely logical and believable. Full of brilliant characters, heroes and anti-heroes. Stands the test of time well. 9 out of 10. Jan 2017
Journey Into Fear by Eric Ambler
A great story about an engineer dragged into the shady world of espionage at the onset of WWII. Atmospheric, tense, full of well-rounded characters and a nail-biting, satisfactory finish. The 210 pages flew buy. Have ordered more from Ambler – a forgotten genius, front-runner to Fleming, Deighton and Le Carre. 8 out of 10. Jan 2017
The Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss
The brilliant start to a trilogy that I can’t wait to finish. The Name of the Wind is about a hero, Kvothe, who relates the story of his childhood and magical education. But this is no Potter-derivative. 660 pages and the pace never drops. Full of intelligent depth that doesn’t obstruct the flow. 9 out of 10. Dec 2016
Uprooted by Naomi Novik
Wonderfully written dark fairy tale of a wizard in a tower, an evil forest and the coming of age of a young woman who becomes the wizard’s apprentice. Agnieska turns into a very powerful sorceror but she’ll need all that to combat the evil that lives in the forest. Fine fantasy. 9 out of 10. Aug 2016
The Buried Giant by Kazuo Ishiguro
Beautiful writing that gives a powerful treatment of memories, time and the enduring love of a couple. All set in dark ages England. The land is wrapped in a strange mist – the breath of a dragon – that helps people forget the horrors of the war just gone. A warrior sets out to defeat the dragon, while a knight tries to keep it safe. 9 out of 10. Mar 2016
The Silent Children by Amna Boheim
The ghostly tale of tragedy and revenge from debut author Amna K Boheim. This book won an indie award and is well deserving of praise. The setting jumps between pre-WW II Vienna and modern-day London. Dark and unsettling at time. 7 out of 10. Nov 2016
Saga Volume 1.
Yes I know I am late to the party – many volumes of enjoyment for me to catch up on. This is a very graphic graphic-novel starting with a humorous birth scene and including plenty of violence and sex. And yet, even with sparse dialogue, it’s full of wit and depth. 9 out of 10. Dec 2016
Slaughterhouse Five by Kurt Vonnegut
A very famous book – really a novella at 176 pages – about the WWII bombing of the German city Dresden. Vonnegut tells the story of a prisoner of war who after the war gets captured by aliens and starts to slip back and forth through time. Very effective and affecting. 8 out of 10. Dec 2016.
The Rose of Tibet by Lionel Davidson
Evocative, tough as teak adventure full of vivid characters and challenges that push the protagonists to the limit. A monastery, a treasure and a chase that you’ll never forget. Slightly unusual framing device of a journal being pieced together by a writer. 8 out of 10. Jul 2016
The Life Assistance Detective Agency by Thomas Hocknell
Well paced plot with a nice twist at the end. Two detectives go in search of a missing professor who is obsessed with Elizabethan Dr John Dee, and scrying for Angels. Humour and fantasy elements that reminisce of Douglas Adams’ Dirk Gently. 8 out of 10. Oct 2016
All the Birds in the Sky by Charlie Jane Anders
The story of two school friends, one a witch, the other a brilliant scientist. An unusual chatty style of writing that is full of humour, intrigue and wild ideas. While the middle drags, the start and ending are great. A bold attempt at fusing sci-fi with fantasy. 8 out of 10. Sep 2016
The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman
Writing that conjures up wonderful and scary images as well as recreating what it is like to be a seven-year old child in an adult world. Fantasy that deals with what makes us who we are and our worth. Short but poignant. 9 out of 10. Jun 2016
Luna: New Moon by Ian McDonald
Lots of fine detail about politics, the legal system and fashion as well as the technology behind a moon colony. Everything, even the air you breathe, must be paid for. Feuding families. Slightly ponderous middle. First in a series – not entirely satisfactory as a standalone work. 5 out of 10. Feb 2016
Stasi Child by David Young
Evocative, well researched, detective novel set in East Germany before the Wall came down. The plot proceeds at a good pace, with obstacles typical of the genre, including a failing marriage and an internal cover-up. 7 out of 10. Aug 2016