A Spark Of Light

JODI PICOULT (HODDER & STOUGHTON, £16.99) A gunman has stormed into the only abortion clinic in Mississippi, where he has shot several people and is now keeping others hostage. Among those trapped are Wren, a teenager there for contraception, Joy, who has just had a termination, and Janine, who is an antiabortionist campaigner. Attempting to negotiate outside is local cop – and Wren’s father – Hugh Mcelroy, while elsewhere, a woman called Beth contemplates an illegal termination murder charge. Beginning in the blood-splattered clinic and charting back over each character’s story in turn, this emotionally charged and thought-provoking drama cements Picoult’s status as one of the most fearless novelists writing today.

A Spark Of Light is not only topical, unflinching and utterly compelling, it’s also an important read. ★★★★★ Isabelle Broom