THIS WEEK’S BEST BOOKS
Here In The Dark by Alexis Soloski
Who better than a prize-winning New York theatre critic to write about a sharp-witted New York theatre critic drawn into a web of mystery? Soloski’s debut novel follows the life of Manhattan critic Vivian Parry, who agrees to be interviewed by graduate student David Adler believing it will boost her profile. He disappears, the police refuse to investigate and his fiancée begs Vivian to find him, so she begins a journey laced with deception and danger. This will keep readers enthralled from the first to the final dramatic act. ALAN JONES
One Love by Matt Cain
Matt Cain’s sixth novel follows Danny and Guy who’ve been friends since university, flitting between their first meeting, a weekend away two decades later, and all the years in between. Danny has been besotted with Guy since day one and hopes they may finally become more than friends when they go to Manchester for Pride. What follows is a thought-provoking look at the complexities of human feelings and motivations. An enjoyable read but it can take a while to get used to the time jumps. BEVERLEY ROUS
The Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World by Bettany Hughes
Bettany Hughes brings to life astonishing feats of engineering in the seven mostly long-destroyed wonders. Her historical storytelling encourages the reader to question why humanity creates, why we remember some wonders over others and what it is about the stories entwined with them that fires our curiosity. This book emphasises not only the scale and majesty of each of the seven wonders but the human story behind them, taking you on a wonderful tour of the ancient world. AMANDA DE BEER
Hot Springs Drive by Lindsay Hunter
The multi-narrator structure adds complexity to a tale centred on the lives of friends Jackie and Theresa but this, at times, is confusing. The story delves into the intricacies of their deepening friendship but the plot takes a sinister turn when it’s discovered Jackie has had an affair with Theresa’s husband – then Theresa’s body is found in her garage. While not conventionally suspenseful, it explores betrayal and the intricate dynamics of human relationships and asks what happens after a tragedy. A skilfully crafted story that lingers. LAUREN GILMOUR