Cathy Bramley - Conditional Love
A novel of love, family, growing emotionally, and searching for happiness. Sophie has always wanted a home of her own. Growing up she only had her mum, who's now off following her own dreams. Sophie thinks her life might be about to settle, when an unexpected legacy offers her a way to realise her dream. However, it comes at a price - the condition is that she meets up with her father, the man who abandoned her as a baby and never took part in her life. It's not the only hard decision she has to make, and her heart takes many bruises on her journey. What will she have to do, to find the love and happiness she craves? A warm, satisfying read.
Jeffrey Archer - The Eleventh Commandment
A thriller with a strong emotional element. Set in the political world of the 1990s, decorated ex-soldier Connor Fitzgerald leads a double life as a CIA hitman. The most important things in his life, however, are his beloved wife Maggie and their daughter, Tara, who's now grown up and falling in love herself. Connor looks forward to his imminent retirement, but his boss sends him on one final mission, into Russia. But unbeknown to him, his boss tricks him, as it's not the Russian politician who is the target, but Connor himself. Twists and turns abound in this tale of political intrigue, edge-of-seat action and drama. Who are Connor's real allies, and will he fall foul of the woman who wishes to ruin his patriotic reputation? A real page-turner.
Jeff Wheeler - The Queen's Poisoner
I have read one of Jeff Wheeler's previous series and found it absolutely captivating. His novels are aimed at young adults, but are good reads for all ages who like fantasy. He creates fascinating worlds influenced by Medieval England but with magical and paranormal elements. The Queen's Poisoner is the first of a new series which is inspired by the history of Richard III of England. The author writes an extensive note about his inspiration and ideas at the end of the novel. The story is told from the point of view of 8-year-old Owen, youngest child of the Duke of Kiskaddon, who has defaulted on his oath to King Severn, the hunchback king of Kingfountain. Severn has sent Kiskaddon's eldest hostage son over the waterfall to his death, and now Owen is to replace his older brother at the King's court. We see the workings of the court through Owen's eyes as he gradually forges allies and comes under the influence of the mysterious and secret Queen's Poisoner, Ankarette. It becomes clear that Owen is going to develop into a gifted character full of depth. Colourful and intriguing.