‘Impossible’ by Nancy Werlin

This book was a big hit with all of us, despite our wide age range! It’s a romantic mystery/thriller set in our world with a touch of the supernatural which is intriguing and unusual enough to be gripping, without giving us all nightmares. Some of us had problems with the opening chapter as it stretched our credulity but once we had got past that, we were quickly hooked. The pace increased as the book went on, getting more and more intense as it approached the climax. We were in doubt as to whether there would be a happy ending which made it all the more exciting – and we’re certainly not going to give anything away – although we did admire the clever last minute twists which kept us guessing almost to the last page.

We particularly enjoyed the way the famous folksong ‘Scarborough Fair’ was used as the launch pad for the plot and the convincing way the world of faerie was blended with the real, modern world. Scores were all 9s and 10s.

This is essentially a young teen read and would make a great book to pack for a long journey or a day on the beach. Younger readers would manage it and enjoy it but we should warn you that some very unpleasant things happen. They are handled well – nothing is graphic or gratuitous – but they are there. We’d recommend it for adults too – a light but well-written and gripping summer read.

Our next choice is something very different ‘George’s Secret Key to the Universe’ by Lucy and Stephen Hawking. We’re hoping a children’s version of Stephen Hawking’s theories might be within our grasp.

We will meet on Tues 22nd June at 4.15pm and, as ever, we’d love to see some new members.