Book of the Month - Wars of the Roses: Stormbird - November 2014

The Book

Stormbird is the first in a new trilogy of historical fiction books (the second 'Trinity' was published in 2014) set in the 1400s and featuring Derry Brewer, master spymaster and the intrigue surrounding the Houses of York and Lancaster.

Will we all be drawn to this tale of intrigue and war? Or will be captivated by the strong female characterisation of Margaret of Anjou?

The Author

Conn Iggulden writes mainly historical fiction and has written the 'Emperor' and 'Conqueror' series of books. He has also co-authored "The Dangerous Book for Boys".

Iggulden was previously a teacher and was Head of English at Haydon School, where one of his pupils was the BBC TV presenter, Fearne Cotton.

More Information 

View the author's website at http://www.conniggulden.com. Watch Iggulden interviewed on YouTube talking about Stormbird.and read an interview with him published by the Huffington Post.

Book of the Month - The Thread - September 2012

The Book
In writing this book, Victoria Hislop has said that she wanted to 'open the eyes and tug at the heart strings'.

The basis of this historical novel is the turbulent relatively recent history of Thessalonkia, Greece's second city, from 1917 to the present day. This happens through the retelling of the story of the lives of Dmitri, son of a rich businessman and Katarina, a poor refugee from Turkey.

The big question, if you choose to join us in reading our latest book club choice, is does she succeed in her aim?

The Author
An Oxford English graduate, Victoria Hislop formerly worked in PR, publishing and as a journalist before turning her hand to writing. She has subsequently written three novels - 'The Island', 'The Return' and now our latest book club choice 'The Thread'.

Other points to note about Victoria is that she is the wife of 'Private Eye' editor, Ian Hislop. She also frequently travels to Greece and has a home in Crete.

More Information
Victoria Hislop's website is accessible at http://www.victoriahislop.com/