
"Books can be dangerous.
The best ones should be labelled
‘This could change your life.’"
Helen Exley
Join us for Books N Banter, our women only,
monthly book club, which meets on the 1st Monday of each month at 7pm
at The Live & Let Live, Stanway, Colchester.
At each meeting, we’ll review the previous month’s book, followed by a fun quiz with a prize for the winner! Afterward, we’ll have a sneak peek at the book for the upcoming month.
You’re also welcome to bring along any books you’ve read and no longer need to swap, lend, or give away. You might even find something new to take home!
Our next meet-up is on Monday, 6th October 2025, at 7pm
we look forward to seeing you there!
Please note there is a £1 per event contribution to admin charge, this can be paid either by cash or card payment.
Thank you for your support - Rebecca
Group Reading list…
-
January's Book
"Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman is a heart warming and humorous novel about an eccentric, solitary woman whose carefully structured life begins to unravel as she forms unexpected connections, leading to personal growth and transformation.
-
February's Book
“Where the crawdads sing” By Delia Owens is a captivating blend of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age. The beautifully described marsh setting and strong female protagonist spark lively debates.
-
Marches Book
A magical, atmospheric tale of a mysterious circus that appears only at night. Its vivid descriptions and layered narrative make it a delight to dissect in a group setting.
-
April's Book
Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers, Set in 1950s London, this beautifully written novel combines mystery with a deeply personal story about longing and sacrifice.
-
May's Book
“The Beekeeper of Aleppo” by Christy Lefteri. A deeply moving novel about love and survival, following a Syrian refugee couple. It's a poignant and timely choice for meaningful discussions.
-
June's Book
“The Essex Serpent” by Sarah Perry
A richly atmospheric novel set in Victorian Essex, following a curious young widow drawn into the mystery of a mythical serpent. Blending science, superstition, and complex human relationships, it’s a beautifully written story perfect for thoughtful discussion. -
July's Book
“Blackwater” by James Henry
Set in 1980s Colchester, this gripping crime novel introduces DI Nick Lowry as he investigates a headless corpse and a suspicious drug shipment. With strong local atmosphere and retro police work, it's a tense, nostalgic thriller perfect for fans of classic British crime. -
August's Book
“All My Mothers” by Joanna Glen. Follow Eva as she searches for answers about her past and the truth behind her family, uncovering a world of connection, longing, and self-discovery.
Poignant, thought-provoking, and quietly uplifting – this is a story that lingers long after the final page. -
Septembers Book
“The Invisible Women’s Club” by Helen Paris is a heart-warming and witty novel about two women who feel overlooked, but through an unlikely friendship, discover strength, purpose, and the power of being truly seen.
-
Octobers Book
“The Thirteenth Tale” by Diane Setterfield. Vida Winter, a famous novelist in England, has evaded journalists' questions about her past, refusing to answer their inquiries and spinning elaborate tales that they later discover to be false.
-
Novembers Book
“The Dictionary of Lost Words” by Pip Williams – A beautifully written novel about the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary, told from the perspective of a woman whose contributions were overlooked. Blends history, feminism, and language.
-
Decembers Book
“Christmas With the Queen” by Hazel Gaynor & Heather Webb. A cosy, historical romance set in post-war Britain. Olive Carter, a BBC reporter, visits Sandringham to cover Queen Elizabeth II’s first Christmas broadcast.

Blackwater by James Henry

Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens

The Night Circus by Erin Morganstern

The Beekeeper of Aleppo by Christy Lefteri

The Essex Serpent by Sarah Perry

Blackwater by James Henry
