Winter Reading 2017

The Children Act by Ian McEwan
It’s three years since I left the law to become an editor, so I wasn’t sure what I’d make of this short novel set firmly in the legal world. I loved it. McEwan’s genius lies in his ability to make the reader feel the complexity and weight of life-changing decisions made by judges in our courts, and how those decisions impact on the lives of all concerned and yet, at the same time, he keeps the narrative light and compelling. You’ll never look at a judge the same way again!

The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
The cover told me it was Agatha Christie meets The Girl on the Train. I didn’t see much Christie in there (except in a very general sense of investigation) but it was certainly The Girl on the Train – just on a boat instead. Don’t let that put you off though. It’s a really good read and it certainly has enough about it to make sure it’s not simply dismissed as an imitation.

Emma by Alexander McCall Smith
A warm, witty, clever and very satisfying retelling and updating of Jane Austen’s classic novel. I can’t recommend this highly enough to anyone. And Austen fans needn’t worry – it’s just wonderful.

Northanger Abbey by Val McDermid
Perhaps one of Austen’s lesser-known novels, but don’t let this put you off Val McDermid’s retelling. This novel is an absolute bundle of fun with great characters, lots of gothic silliness and a happy ending. I loved it.

Jim Reaper: Son of Grim by Rachel Delahaye
Poor Jim’s world is blown apart one day when he discovers that his dad is not the ‘normal’ accountant he’s been pretending to be all this time. Once Jim starts to notice strange things, he can see that there’s something of the night about his dad, but he just can’t put his finger on it. And then it all slots into place and life – or death – will never be the same again. Witty, clever, pacey. Great.

A Spot of Folly by Ruth Rendell
A collection of short stories, some better than others, but overall a cracking read and something in there to keep almost every reader entertained.

The Path Through the Trees by Christopher Milne
The second of Christopher Milne’s autobiographical books, covering his time as a soldier in World War Two and running his bookshop in Dartmouth. Engaging and poignant.

The Girl of Ink and Stars by Kiran Millwood Hargrave
This intriguing and imaginative book is full of hope and positivity. A good pace, well-drawn plot, believable characters and a satisfying ending. Hargrave’s world-building was entirely unobtrusive. I can’t wait to read more of her work.