Literature group – book reviews July to September 2020

During the first lockdown our Group continued to partially receive our Monthly book selection from Devon Libraries, and we kept in touch with each other by phone.

Since June we have met informally on a weekly basis both socially and at our monthly gathering in a group of 6. It has meant a great support for us all and we had many lively discussions, and although we have had to temporarily cease these, we have reverted to our phone chats.

The books during these periods have provided an interesting diversity of reading matter, and some of these I am sharing with you.

Anna Hope: The Wake (July 2020)

A compelling tale of 3 women dealing with the aftermath of WW1, and its impact of the men in their lives. Their connection woven by the story of the Unknown Warrior. The book was well received by our members, although it was often emotional and heart-rending.

Robert Galbraith (aka JK Rowling): The Silkworm (August 2020)

A very different read from the author of the Harry Potter series. Recently it has been shown on television under the heading of “Strike”, and is a captivating detective story set in the world of publishing, with well defined and interesting characters and an intriguing storyline full of “red herrings”. Again, the majority of the group would highly recommend this book.

Stacey Hall: The Familiars (September 2020)

This book is fiction but is based on historic fact with the names and location being true. It is set in the 17th Century and is based on the real-life stories of the Lancashire Witches and the influences and consequences of their actions. It follows the life of a young upper class girl; how male dominance affects her life and how association with Witches is life-changing. The group mostly agreed it was a book which proved surprisingly very interesting and enjoyable.