Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple

(Phoenix, £7.99)

I had so many people mention this book to me when it was published, I don’t think I could have generated any more interest in it if I had written it myself. Eventually a friend bought it for me and I devoured it in one sitting. Told through Bernadette’s daughter’s diaries, emails between her neighbours and overheard conversations, I followed the zig-zag story of Bernadette’s life – and disappearance – never knowing exactly where I was going, but loving every minute.
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The Last Runaway by Tracy Chevalier

(Harper Collins, £7.99)

Her best book since Girl With a Pearl Earring says the cover, and this did the trick for me. A book you will - pardon the cliche - find hard to put down once you start; the story of a young English Quaker girl who emigrated to Ohio while the slave trade still flourished in the southern states of the US. It was by turns lonesome, moving, sad, hopeful, positive and inspirational, but always emotionally engaging. Another Chevalier treat.
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Cold Killing by Luke Delaney

(Harper, £7.99)

This is Delaney’s first book and I’m now his biggest fan; a fast-paced serial-killer mystery that had me holding my breath all the way through. Delaney is a former Murder Squad detective which is obvious from the detail and insider knowledge he displays – a grippingly good read.
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Big Brother by Lionel Shriver

(Harper Collins, £16.99)

I hated this so much I can feel my blood pressure rising just thinking about it. A look at modern day issues about dieting, weight and obesity. Or at least it would have been if she hadn’t played the meanest trick ever on the reader half way through. I can’t say any more without revealing the plot for those unfortunate enough to read this. Just remember, you may end up as angry as I did by the end.
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