Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austin
This classic book first published in 1813. The story is about Elizabeth Bennet and her family. She is the second eldest of five daughters who are all being pushed to find good husbands by their mother.

Book Groups Review
This is a classic and popular love story. The characters are well developed and as the reader you are full of anticipation and feeling for them. This book was greatly enjoyed by the whole group. Marks ranged from 8/10 to 10/10

Voyage of the Narwhal by Andrea Barrett
This is a story about a man called Erasmus Darwin Wells who is involved in an expedition to search for Sir John Franklin who vanished in the far north.

Book Groups Review
This was a well crafted book which gave you a real feel for the period in which it was set. The characters were well developed and we felt we knew them personally.

The story was gripping and the descriptions of the places and conditions conjured amazing imagery. Marks ranged from 7/10 to 10/10 (mainly 9’s and 10’s)

A selection of books by Colin Dexter
Colin Dexter began writing the Inspector Morse series after reading a very unsatisfactory crime novel during a family holiday. His first novel, Last Bus to Woodstock, appeared in 1975 and in 1999 the thirteenth and last novel in the series, The Remorseful Day was published. During his career he has garnered much critical praise, and has won many awards.

Book Groups Review
The books were interesting and well constructed. Colin Dexter pays great attention to detail and the clever clues kept us guessing right up until the end. The developing relationship between Lewis and Inspector Morse throughout the series added depth to the detective stories. Everyone enjoyed the book they read. Marks ranged from 7/10 to 9/10

What’s Bred in the Bone by Robertson Davies
This story is about the life of Francis Cornish who was born in Canada in 1909 and died in 1981. He lead an interesting life unknowingly moulded by his Daimon. To the world Francis Cornish was seen at his death as a wealthy internationally known art expert and collector, but there was a lot more to his life and career as we find out when his Daimon and an Angel recall his life.

Book Groups Review
Although it didn’t live up to the reviews, this was an entertaining read. You need to have plenty of time to read this book and it takes a while to get into the story, but once you have you can’t put it down. The marks for this book ranged from 1/10 to 8/10

David Copperfield by Charles Dickens
This is the classic life story of David Copperfield. This book was originally published in 20 monthly instalments in a newspaper in 18

Book Groups Review
This Victorian soap opera carries you along but it is a challenging read. The names of the characters give the reader an idea of their personality and they are well developed (if a little over the top). A good story enjoyed by most. Marks from those who got through this book in a month ranged from 1/10 to 9/10

East of the Mountains by David Guterson
This is the story of a surgeon’s journey as he confronts the end of his life.

Book Groups Review
A mixed reaction to this book from a definite, “No” to “Excellent”. Guterson reveals the power of human spirit even as it ebbs and describes the canyons and mountains of the Northwest USA. Marks from those who got through this book in a month ranged from 1/10 to 9/10

Star of the Sea by Joseph O’Connor
This story is about a varied group of people travelling to the “New World”, during the Irish potato famine.

Book Groups Review
A well researched and compassionate account rooted in reality. The characterisation is both convincing and compelling; some people may find it overwhelming. The marks for this book ranged from 5/10 to 10/10

This story is told by the wife and four daughters of a fierce evangelical Baptist who has taken his family and mission to the Belgian Congo in 1959. It tells of their tragic undoing and remarkable reconstruction over the course of three decades in postcolonial Africa.

Book Groups Review
The story is told from different view points, and is absorbing, well paced and well researched. It gives a good insight into what happens when the structure of society breaks down. This book has well formed strong characters and the language is appropriate for different age groups and cultures. There are strong political undercurrents which are still relevant today. Marks from those who got through this book in a month ranged from 8/10 to 10/10

This is the story of History teacher who is reflecting on his childhood growing up in the Fens.

Book Groups Review
There was a very varied response to this book with the majority of the group finding it difficult to read. Comments ranged from “exciting” to “boring” and “atmospheric”. The two people who enjoyed the book were very enthusiastic. Marks from those who got through this book in a month ranged from 0/10 to 10/10

This is the story of a simple life from birth to death.

Book Groups Review
The book is detailed and beautifully described. It has a precise and clear use of language ranging from the bleak to the funny. The reader emphasises with the main character as the life is lived. You really care what happens next. Top marks were 8/10

This is crime drama. Dalgliesh and his team have to solve the murder of a distinguished criminal lawyer.

Book Groups Review
A very well written, intricately plotted book. The characterisation was accurate and the setting was very well described. A good light holiday read. Marks ranged from 5/10 to 8/10

Cannery Row by John Steinbeck
This story is Steinbeck's high-spirited tribute to his native California.

It is set in a tiny community near Monterey in California during the Great Depression of the 1930s. It’s about a colourful blend of misfits - gamblers, whores, drunks, burns and artists who survive side by side in a jumble of adventure and mischief.

Book Groups Review
The book was universally enjoyed. It was acutely observed and a beautifully described story. Steinbeck is a good critic on the competitive and acquisitive society, he manages to amuse and move the emotions at the same time. Marks ranged from 8/10 to 9/10