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I saw The Golden Compass first before I realised this was actually a book. Then I walked into Waterstone one day and saw the full series of books in one tome sitting on the shelf. I bought it and was instantly hooked. So much better than the movie and full of controversial themes. Pullman's anti-establishment and multi-dimentional themes work well together. The idea that we see these worlds unfold through the eyes of a child is a brilliant concept. How many of us has grown up thinking that the things adults do seem more complicated and selfish than they need to be? Things were much simpler when we were children. I also loved the idea that the characters were born and lived with their souls/daemons outside their bodies. The concept behind it, although Pullman also depicts the opposite, is that you could never be truly lonely. I would say that this book and concept is unique, I can't think of book that is entirely similar to it, but anyone with an interest in fantasy and science fiction should definitely give this a read.

The Alice Network by Kate Quinn has been our book club's favourite read this year! Most of us finished it in a handful of days AND bought more books by Kate Quinn straight away! The Alice Network is a historical fiction, however, it is based on a real WW1 female spy network in German-occupied France. The story is told by two characters set in two different times in history, providing you with a story-jigsaw puzzle. It was very difficult to put this book down: obviously it is full of high-stakes missions...but the backstories of the characters also keep drawing you in. You will feel like you are part of their little group: constantly wanting to go on to untangle all the strands of past events. I must also highlight we all felt the antagonist was one of the most complex villains we have ever encountered: he is sophisticated, intelligent, cultured and above all: incredibly self-aware, which makes him even more dangerous. The research behind the book evoked deep respect from all of us: Kate Quinn's passion for history really shines through. This book will leave you in awe and tears, it will inspire you and it will give you renewed hope in the healing balm of friendship.

This book was only my second Stephen King read. Genre: dark fantasy/adventure. It starts off as a very ordinary story set in a small town: boy meets dog + grumpy old man. Ordinary events however lead to doors to the extraordinary. The story is masterfully patched together from pieces of well-known old tales but with dark, gritty twists. The stakes just keep getting higher and higher, you'll keep finding yourself in more and more unexpected, exciting, dangerous situations! The world-bulding is meticulous and incredible; you'll find yourself shivering but still wanting more...King is a master at that. The elements of hope and friendship are the engine driving the main character forward in the midst of hardships. The main character's development and self-reflection are really well written. It is one of those books you cannot wait to get back to! Upon reflection, there are beautiful metaphors sprinkled throughout the story that I truly hope you'll be able to discover and warmed by.

I love this book. The characters the humour. It's not for everyone. Some people hate the main character. Personally I found him fascinating.

Loved the characters and the setting … I fell in love with the Scottish highlands after reading these books.

I know other books by this author

It's philosophical without being tacky or overbearing.