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Every month, we share our book recommendations with you. From readers picks to bestsellers, from new reads to critically acclaimed books across all genres, we have something for all book lovers, no matter what you’re into. 

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"The Worst Journey In The World"

Set during World War 2, this story is narrated by George, who is on a mission to protect supply boats during the height of the war. There is so much here; suspense, mystery, love, heroism and most of all a historical insight to a very dark time in our history! We get to see the day-to-day living in a terrible place during the war at that time. The author who did an excellent job with this read. It made me want to explore history more and gave me a new perspective on WW2. Excellent and well written. 

'Chinese Education in Singapore'

Chinese Education in Singapore: An Untold Story of Conflict and Change, is an unbiased view of Singapore's history. Singapore's story offers lessons for modern cities as many seek to build vibrant economies and achieve a high quality of living. It is interesting but not confusing. Writing is tight and very readable. Author clearly knows and enjoys his subject. This is a must read for those interested in the subject.

'Finding the Raven'

Finding the Raven by Patty Dickson Pieczka is a gripping thriller that kept me sitting on the edge of my bed guessing what would happen next. I would say this novel is probably classified as an historical-magic-murder-mystery !! :) This fascinating thrill ride was set in 1900's America and I think the dynamics and the evolving relationship between Julia and Rose was one of the most satisfying parts of the book. Definitely recommended if you like mysteries and strong women characters with a lot of heart. 5/5 (My thanks to Patty for sending me a review copy.)

Naked.

Covered only by her long hair, Lady Godiva famously rode naked through the streets of Coventry. This tale entitled 'Naked' by author Eliza Redgold is a beautifully written novel filled with loyalty, sadness and the victory of grace and love. This book had me -- and took me right into another place and time. Just as Lady Godiva grew in the story, so did I. An immersive and compelling adventure that I would highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested in good quality historical fiction, especially if you're interested in the time period of Saxon England.

The Du Lac Chronicles.

A wonderful meld of historical fiction, myth and romance. Alden’s kingdom lies in rubble. He has only one possession left worth saving: Annis. Alden has one hope: his brother Budic, King of Brittany, who could offer them sanctuary—but whether he will offer the same courtesy to Annis is far less certain. Right away, I had a good sense of the characters, which were well described and each had their own distinct personality (loved Merton). If you think this is just another Arthurian tale, you’re mistaken. It combine intrigue with suspense in the reality of the English 5th Century. This is a sit down and finish book.

'All Hallows at Eyre Hall'

I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and charm of Jane Eyre in this unique sequel. 22 years after her marriage, Jane is coping with the imminent death of her husband and Richard Mason reveals unspeakable secrets and leads Jane into a complex conspiracy.  The beautiful book cover compliments this well written historical fiction romance. This kind of book makes you wish you lived in the past just for the experience. Half way through I realised it was time for bed. I put the book aside, but I just couldn't sleep...I needed to finish it. And I did, now I'm looking forward to part two :)

'The Absolution of Otto Finkel'

'The Absolution of Otto Finkel' by John McKay is a fascinating story, full of action and adventure…all told with skill and grace. The story is set in Europe in the era of World War Two. Told without any political agenda it starts out in 1928: Five friends are involved in an incident leaving a man dead and one of the boys disfigured. 1940: Now men, each chooses to serve their respective countries in different ways. Years later - memories fade, but not for Otto.  What I loved about this book was that there are powerful examples of average people in trying times deciding daily between morality and survival. I have been left awe-struck. So, thank you John for writing this book. It has been an honour.

'Aurelia'

Wow, what a series. If you haven't started this series yet, you are really missing out. Here, author Alison Morton presents a thrilling prequel in the alternative history of the Roma Nova series, the fourth book to be precise, and keeps up all the great momentum and thrill from the first three books. If you've read any of the first three books then you know what to expect, and what you get is exactly what you'd hoped for.

This intriguing story continues....

'The Harmony Scroll'

Author Edita A Petrick takes us on a treasure hunt that is a matter of life and death. Carter and Hunter are back, and this time they're on the hunt to locate a scroll that has the power to break an ancient  curse. I read the first novel "Ribbons of Death" in the Stella Hunter series, so I had to check out "The Harmony Scroll" and yes, it was as good as the first one. I'm a bit of an ancient history buff and the life styles of the times appear to be well researched and accurate. This to me, is very important when reading. There is never a dull moment in the book, the author has crafted a story that any lover of historical fiction will delight in reading.