Book clubs in Hertfordshire

Everything!

Having lived in and read mostly about societies governed by state institutions and rule of law, this book was a sea change in my understanding of how radically different and complex social structures can be among human beings. I really loved how concretely the writer explores the work of ethnographers who really steeped themselves into these societies to explore the role of ‘balanced opposition’ as one of the key forces underlying tribal social structures in various Middle Eastern societies.

A brilliant biography written as a novel. The prose is written in a way that rapidly draws you into the story of the life of the author Thomas Mann as well as giving insight into the events of the time, with a focus on the World Wars and how these enormous events impacted Mann, his family, and friends.

It’s a true swashbuckling, revenge-fuelled, plot-driven classic!

Very interesting as a concept but also creates a good connection with the characters, with a very emotional ending - read it over a year ago and it stays with me all the time

I love how this book makes you question your own relationships with your family and the beliefs you have created of yourself

This book has a gas lamp / victoriana fantasy setting, a cozy murder mystery plot with a magical twist, and complex, sympathetic characters - I hope this is a book that sweeps you off your feet on first reading and provides a rich treasure trove of discovery on second reading. You be the judge!