Books of 2012

I think I'm still in the new year window, so here are some of the titles I enjoyed last year.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

Rachel Joyce

This book contains a character with the last name of Fry (the maiden name of my grandmother) and another with the first name of Queenie (same grandmother’s first name) so how could I not read this? I LOVED this book and in spite of the fact that it made me openly weep in one chapter, it is neither depressing nor sad. Highly recommended.

Last Letter From Your Lover

JoJo Moyes

I normally don’t like parallel storylines in books, but this one worked. The time-travelling story gripped me (okay, I read it on the beach so my mind wasn’t otherwise occupied) and it had a twist at the end I didn’t see coming. 

The Time Traveler’s Guide to Medieval England: A Handbook for Visitors to the Fourteenth Century

Ian Mortimer

If you’ve ever wondered how the button changed fashion, or how medieval homes were decorated, this is the book for you. A unique read, written in a humorous and engaging way – think Lonely Planet rather than stuffy textbook.

Full English: A Journey Through the British and Their Food

Tom Parker Bowles

Yes, this is Camilla’s son, and yes, he can write. In this book he sources out the finest dishes in regions across Britain, and introduces us to the colourful characters who have popularized some of the dishes made famous around the world.

The Accident
Linwood Barclay

Not exactly fine literature, but the plot keeps you interested, and the story moves along quickly. Plus, Peterborough boy represents!

One Last Thing Before I Go
Jonathan Tropper

What should be a less-than-likeable main character is fairly endearing in this story about a man trying to piece his family back together before he dies.

The Uninvited Guests
Sadie Jones

For fans of Downton Abbey and….the paranormal? Parts of the story are weird, but the dialogue and lush descriptions of the Edwardian house and fancy dinner parties make up for it.