BooksNBanter Reading list 2025

  • 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.