Book Chat Recommends

Hastings Book Chat is a lively group of book lovers. Here's the pick of what we've been reading lately.

The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton

Starting off in 1962, this novel is about a group of young artists spending the summer at a manor house on the Thames for a sojourn of creativity and inspiration. But things go dramatically wrong: a woman shot dead, while another disappears along with an heirloom. Switch to the current day and young activist Elodie makes a discovery which might hold the key to the mystery from so long ago. This is a relaxing, escapist read with engaging characters and a plot that keeps you hooked.

Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver

Kingsolver’s latest novel also interweaves past and present when Willa Knox investigates the history of the house she has inherited. The old house is in a desperate state, but Willa finds a kindred spirit in Mary Treat, the 1880s leader of a Utopian community. The novel describes two families in two different centuries but with each showing resilience at a time of cultural change. A book for our time as well as a terrific read – recommended.

Mothers by Chris Power

Sometimes it’s nice to dip into some short stories and Chris Power’s debut is an engaging collection worth picking up. The characters in these stories are each at a crossroads in their lives, not necessarily knowing what they are looking for. A recurring character is Eva with the story of her problematic marriage and its effect on her daughter. Throughout are themes of loneliness and remembrance with varied settings including Sweden, Mexico and Greece. A thoughtful and very readable collection from a gifted new author.

Entry Island by Peter May

Entry Island is a tiny island off the Canadian coast, where detective Sime Mackenzie is sent from Montreal to investigate the death of a wealthy man found dead in his home. Evidence points to the wife as the murderer, but Mackenzie has a feeling he has met her before and becomes convinced of her innocence. Memories of the past haunt Sime, his thoughts turning back to another island, this time in Scotland. A terrific read - anyone who has enjoyed May's Lewis Trilogy will not be disappointed.

Why Dance? by Sir John Trimmer

Sir John Trimmer is a legend in the history of New Zealand ballet. This book charts his career from his time as a student with London's Ballet School, to performing with Sadler's Wells, the Australian Ballet, Royal Danish Ballet and his many years dancing with the Royal NZ Ballet. With tips for the developing dancer, this book is a fascinating read for ballet lovers of all ages.

The Distance Between Us by Maggie O'Farrell
Maggie O'Farrell is a whiz at family stories told with warmth and originality. This earlier book describes what happens when Jake - recently arrived in London to seek the father he never knew - meets Stella, somehow propelled to flee when she sees a man she recognises on a London bridge. Family secrets and criss-crossing narratives make this another mesmerising tale from this popular author.

Posted by Hastings Book Chat