Reading Group Round Up

Pontypool Library Read Aloud Group

Jo Baker - Longbourn

The group are currently reading this retelling of Jane Austen’s, “Pride and Prejudice”. Told from the point of view of the household servants it clearly shows the harsh realities of life below stairs, something which Austen never dwelt on, and adds a new dimension to a much loved classic.

The members are enjoying the book very much. It lacks the gentility of Jane Austen’s take on her world but offers a possibly more realistic and earthy view of Regency England, both upstairs and downstairs.


Pontypool Library Teen Reading Group

Erika Johansen – The Queen of the Tearling

This is the first book in a new fantasy series. Kelsea Glynn is the heir to her mother’s throne and the kingdom of Tearling. Since the murder of her mother Queen Elyssa, Kelsea has been raised in secret by foster parents and the kingdom ruled by her uncle as regent. 

The book tells the story of Kelsea’s struggle to return to her kingdom and claim her throne. To achieve this she must save the Tearling from the forces of dark magic that threaten to destroy it.

There were mixed reactions from the group. One member found it difficult to get into and gave up early on. While others agreed in part, they felt that it was a good plot and worth persevering with.

The second part, “Invasion of the Tearling” is also available from Torfaen Libraries and the third book in the series, “Fate of the Tearling” is due to be published in 2016.

If you've read any of these books I'd love to know your opinions. Please post your comments below.