Life & Style
Lucinda Chambers
I can’t even think about going on holiday until I have an inviting pile of books ready to pack. Some to dip in and out of, some in which to fully immerse myself; both young authors and favourite old-timers. And, new to me, a book of poetry, which just felt right... Off I go!
Saturday Lunch With The Brownings by Penelope Mortimer
There are many authors whose work I keep returning to, safe in the knowledge that they’ll deliver a good read. Mortimer is one of them and I am told this book is particularly good.
The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
This is the book that everyone’s talking about. The reviews are excellent so want to see for myself why it’s proving such a hit this summer.
I Remember Nothing by Nora Ephron
I’ve just finished I Feel Bad About My Neck but prior to that I had momentarily forgotten what wonderful a writer Ephron was. Hilarious, touching, insightful and perfect to pack – you can just dip in and out, savouring each sentence.
The Bass Rock by Evie Wyld
I’m told this is really good and anyway I love the cover! I like to take a book I know nothing about and thus have no preconceptions…
Let's Hope For The Best by Carolina Setterwall
A beautifully written debut about the death of her husband and father of her child – I have just put this down and it is staying with me. Strangely it’s not sad because it’s about her journey. I took my time with it and really loved it.
Under Occupation by Alan Furst
My summer reading would not be complete if I didn’t have a tale of espionage set in the Second World War. This is the latest instalment of a series that’s really gripping.
The Fabulous Bouvier Sisters by Sam Kashner & Nancy Schoenberger
A New York Times bestseller is always a winner. Funnily enough, although the sisters have been style icons and the subject of many a shoot, I don’t know much about the detail of their lives and their relationship with each other. I always pack a biography and this is my summer pick.
House Of Glass by Hadley Freeman
I have the pleasure of knowing Hadley through our work and I really admire her writing. I am so pleased for her that this account of her family history, a product of 20 years of research, has been so incredibly well received. I can’t wait to read it.
Ladder of Years by Anne Tyler
Anne Tyler is another favourite author, in addition to which this book is a Sunday Times bestseller, so that’s my cue. I usually add a crime novel to my reading list, but this sounds sufficiently thrilling to fulfil that urge!
The Kingfisher by Amy Clampitt
Last but not least, I’ve chosen a book of poetry. I’ve started to find that poetry resonates in a way that feels new to me, so I want to read more. I’m going to begin with Amy Clampitt’s The Kingfisher – I’ve already dipped in and read a couple of the poems and they’re simply beautiful!
