This weeks challenge hosted by Sophia Valentine has been a pleasure to write. The books I’ve chosen are originals with the ability to stay in my consciousness, long after I’ve read the last chapter. I do not select by gender…I select by recommendation. I can be gripped by a historical romance one minute, and then entranced by  a psychological thriller the next. As they say…variety is indeed the spice of life.

To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee. I’ve had  the pleasure of reading this book every year, and each time  I discover a new nuisance in the story,  I’d previously missed. This book appeals to me because the author highlights intelligence and social injustice, through the eyes of a child.  The humour of the story goes a long way to soften the stark harshness of our imperfect world. I will never tire of this book and the moral lessons it so beautifully depicts. It remians a compelling  voice against prejudice.

 The Sandman by Lars Keplar

The Sandman by Lars Keplar is a white knuckle ride from the first page. This husband and wife team have the rarest of gifts…true suspense. I was  held in a  state of increasing fear and apprehension as the book unfolded. Superb writing that delivers, edge of your seat reading. I’ve read this author before. The Hypnotist is both a riveting and distressing experience. It exposes human depravity at a whole new level. Not for the faint hearted…but this is psychological suspense at it’s finest.

Perfume by Patrick Suskind. I read this a long time ago and although I didn’t bond with the story initially, I persisted. The story is so remarkable your natural curiosity will get the better of you. Although a film now, in it’s day, it was simply unique. I’d never read anything like it and it left an indelible impression.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas  by  John Boyne. I read this book as part of a book club and loved the thought provoking book club questions. A poignant and beautifully crafted tale, the essence fo this book was summed up by my fellow book club member’s words. “Be careful what you wish for.”

I will end on comedy because so few do it well but Bridget Jones by Helen Fielding is  the exception. Fresh, funny and full on, it delivers the full package. For any girl out there experiencing the pressure of being single, there  is no better tonic.