Geraldine Brooks

Bethia Mayfield is a young girl growing up in the tiny settlement of Great Harbor, amid a small band of pioneers and Puritans. At the age of twelve, she encounters Caleb, the young son of a chieftain, and the children form a secret friendship. Trapped by the narrow strictures of her faith and her gender, she seeks connections with Caleb's world that will challenge her beliefs and set her at odds with her community.

The devastation of the American Civil War is seen through the eyes of Mr March, the absent father in the 'Little Women' stories. The book explores the conflicts raging in this once idealistic army chaplain and his relationship with Grace, a beautiful, literate slave. Richard & Judy Bookclub.

In 1666 the Great Plague reached the Derbyshire village of Eyam and the villagers took the decision to isolate themselves. Based on real events, this novel follows the loss of family and the disintegration of community through the eyes of 18-year-old Anna Frith.