Here are some brief opinions about the books I have read recently. The number represents my recommendation:

10 = a must read

1 = it’s up to you, but …

The girl who fell from the sky by Simon Mawer

Good plot – exciting with twists

8

Five on Brexit island by Bruno Vincent

I flipped between Five as children and Five as adults; not sure in the end. If you want to wallow in nostalgia it would be better to go back to Enid Blyton.

1

The Rachel papers by Martin Amis

Martin Amis’ first book – it would seem to be autobiographical. Confusing in parts because of flash backs

5

Towards the end of the morning by Michael Frayn

Funny and sad. Excellent characterisations.

8

Water for elephants by Sara Gruen

A circus love story. Some cruelty to elephants. A little light.

6

The trouble with goats and sheep by Joanna Cannon

The ‘investigations’ of two ten -year-old girls reveals how the secret their neighbours share from the past explains their behaviour today.

8

The white tiger by Aravind Adiga

Story telling at its best. One persons journey from poverty to murder.

9

The mark and the void by Paul Murray

Weak story line. Far-fetched and somewhat confusing.

4

No place for woman by Val Wood

Strong emotional story. Be prepared for tears.

9

Lying in wait by Liz Nugent

A intriguing story. Motherly love in the extreme.

8