Book clubs in Weston-super-Mare

My first ever book that kept me going to finish off within few weeks

Amazing high fantasy with phenomenal world building

This book is narrated by Jacob; essentially a villain, but modern readers will recognise he's at the mercy of a serious mental health problem. Being set during the English Civil War, Jacob breaks every rule going, and understands his character in religious terms; he thinks the devil is talking to him. The historical detail is incredible, the characters completely 3D, and when Jacob falls in love with a deserter/digger, the outcome is shattering. How Maria McCann manages to humanise a man who commits terrible acts I will never know. (It's worth mentioning that Jacob's crimes really are loathsome, and not for the faint-hearted!)

My favourite fiction author and not the usual first recommendation but all her books are glorious. Funny, insightful and intelligently written - very engaging reads. I love classics - but also love more modern writers.

I love the fact that it made me think deeply about how other people see their existence.

This was book about a “distressed gentlewoman” who writes a book for money and is then taken aback by the results was written in the 1930’s. The author is an astute observer of people and manners with a very light touch. It is very funny and I love the period detail as well as the humour.

Its so beautifully heartwarming and funny. The themes resonate with me as a member of the LGBTQ+ community, at some points bringing me to tears yet keeping me hopeful. A wonderful reading experience.

I love the fact that it made me think deeply about how other people see their existence.