books and bakes

In The Twyford Code, bestselling author Janice Hallett delivers a masterfully crafted literary puzzle told entirely through audio transcripts. As ex-gang member Steven “Smithy” Smith attempts to unravel the decades-old disappearance of his schoolteacher and a possible code hidden in children’s books, readers are invited to decode the truth alongside him. Thought-provoking, cleverly structured, and rich in emotion, this is more than a mystery—it’s a moving meditation on memory, identity, and the stories we choose to tell.

Shuggie Bain hasn’t been an easy read for the group, we do recognise how powerful and evocative the story is.

This month, our Books and Bakes Book Club has been reading Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell — a beautiful and heart-wrenching novel that brings to life the unseen story behind one of history’s greatest writers.

In If You Go Away, bestselling author Adele Parks takes readers on an emotionally complex journey through love, duty, class, and identity during the tumultuous backdrop of World War I.

Emma Healey’s Elizabeth is Missing is a compelling and haunting novel that weaves together two mysteries through the eyes of Maud, an elderly woman living with dementia.

“The Chemical Detective” is the debut novel by Fiona Erskine, introducing readers to Dr. Jacqueline “Jaq” Silver—a dynamic chemical engineer and explosives expert. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Slovenia’s snowy slopes, Jaq utilizes her expertise in avalanche control to ensure the safety of skiers and mountaineers. However, her routine Read more

Despite its harrowing subject matter, Still Alice is also a story of resilience and love.

In January, we discussed The Inaugural Meeting of the Fairvale Ladies Book Club.