The Drowned

by John Banville

Hanover Square Press/ HarperCollins

    As usual, Banville writes an atmospheric, quiet mystery with characters who have more than a few secrets. And, as usual, he refuses to tie it all up nicely for you - the ending is brutal, incomplete and also sad.

    But it's all so wonderfully well written that you can't help but care for all those involved - even the ones you don't want to care for at all.

    A compelling mystery for a chill winter's night.

If you'd like to know more about this book, or Banville's other wonderful novels, please check your local independent bookstore or this wonderful place: bookshop.org

 The Hunter

by Tana French

PenguinRandomHouse

    This sequel to The Searcher brings back Cal Hooper and his attempts to fit, but not too closely, in the very small village of Ardnakelty. He knows too much about the people here, but is very fond of a few. Trey Reddy is a young teen to whom he's teaching carpentry, and hoping to civilize a bit. When her father returns after a long absence, the entire town is caught up in his dangerous scheming.

    This is another book that I'm hoping is the middle of a trilogy - I want to know what happens now.

If you would like to know more about, or own this book, please check with your local independent bookstore or this great place - bookshop.org