This page has reviews on books we have read and enjoyed, both fiction and non-fiction, and literary events.
The Empty Greatcoat was been named as one of the books of the month for January 2022 by the Books Council of Wales.
Unsettled Ground by Claire Fuller, Winner of the Costa Novel Award 2021 and shortlisted for the Women’s Prize 2021, is an unusual, moving and uplifting story.
This story, set in a remote location, is told from several points of view and two interlinked time periods, 1970s and present day. Cleverly constructed with plot twists and turns the initial mystery is satisfyingly resolved.
A beautiful evocation of the North Carolina marshlands and a story of an abandoned child whose life is shaped by those around her, the community who should help, but instead treat her like an outcast. A coming-of-age story with love of the natural world combined with a mysterious death make this a unique and compelling story.
‘The Survivors’ fourth crime novel by international, multi-award winning author, Jane Harper contains her hallmark qualities, linking past and the present, people and the natural world, with an intense, atmospheric focus on place.
A City Burning by Angela Graham is her debut collection of short stories set in Wales, Northern Ireland and Italy. Twenty-six stories where characters have to face a decision about their lives.
Flying the Nest is the second humorous novel by Joy Norstrom. Set in a retirement home it is a charming story with a hint of pathos looking at perceptions of ageing and sexuality and the importance of family and friends.
A thrilling read, A Minute to Midnight by David Baldacci, follows FBI Special Agent Attlee as she returns to the place where her sister was abducted, and she was injured. After her return fresh murders occur. Is she a catalyst for these events?
The Poisonwood Bible is a story about growth, fear, change and redemption. Set in the Congo it is rich with detail and historical fact - the sort of story that keeps the reader thinking long after they close the final page.
Advent is a story about determination and expectation. Set in Wales in the early 20th century it evokes the landscape and history of farming in the Gower. Its protagonist, Ellen Thomas, is strong-willed and resourceful, a woman frustrated by convention and set to decide her own course in life.
