What we're reading: Stoneman, Hermes Gower, Burr
Each week our wonderful staff share the books that they've been enjoying.
Aurelia is reading Alexander the Great: A Life in Legend by Richard Stoneman
The only thing second to the amazing feats accomplished by and longlasting influence of Alexander the Great are the fantastical legends that emerged after his death. Richard Stoneman has written an entertaining, eye-opening novel about how different cultures throughout Europe and Asia have adopted Alexander the Great into their own mythology and religion, painting him as a Jewish convert, an Islamic prophet, a Christian crusader, a dragon-slayer, protector of the world, and so much more.
Alexander's afterlife is as great as his historical life in this gripping novel.
Bella is reading The Mermaid and Mrs Hancock by Imogen Hermes Gowar
This is a lush, rich tapestry of a book, following a middle class merchant and an ageing courtesan, with all the sly wit and observational skill of Austen herself. Woven with a hint of magic, it empathetically explores the small triumphs and tragedies of the main characters; but in the classic way of the 19th century novels she emulates, Hermes Gower isn't afraid to divert from the main characters, and there's also time and attention given to several compelling side characters and their stories.
I heartily recommend listening to this as an audiobook, read by the wonderful Juliet Stevenson – she really captures the tone of the period and is a delight to listen to!
Emma is reading Ripper by Shelley Burr
The once charming town of Rainier is infamous for the Ripper Murders that happened seventeen years ago, and while the residents want to leave this in the past, when a tour operator is murdered the town is once again pulled into a police investigation.
This is a fast paced, addictive read with plenty of twists and turns, and small town rumours – highly recommend!
