Book Reviews

FEBRUARY 2021

‘The Mermaid of Black Conch: A Love Story’ by Monique Roffey

(Paperback £9.99)

Into the net of a Caribbean fisherman in the 1970s swims a mermaid,

Aycayia, a creature who has lived for hundreds of years. David the fisherman

and those who learn of the mermaid’s existence find themselves challenged by the slap of magic she brings into their everyday lives. This bittersweet tale is also a love story as David attempts to protect Aycayia, navigating this instinct where possessiveness, desire and compassion meet. Winner of the Costa 2020 Novel Award.

‘Love After Love’ by Ingrid Persaud (Paperback £8.99)

A Costa award winner for Best First Novel, this is a debut to enjoy. A hopeful tale of love and loss, the novel is set in the unconventional household of Betty Ramdin, a woman of energy and passion, her shy son Solo, and their wonderful lodger Mr Chetan. Together they have formed bonds and established a safe haven in the world. One night they come face to face with a disturbing truth, when a glass of rum and a heart to heart threatens their unity.

‘Feel Great Lose Weight’ by Dr Rangan Chatterjee (Paperback £16.99)

Find ways to flow through the year with ease, health and energy with this accessible guide to keeping yourself well. Offering simple habits that work longterm to sustain a healthy body, the book is practical, full of helpful illustrations and is absolutely not a fad diet book. Dr Chatterjee offers an understanding of the effects of food, exercise and mental habits and how to put helpful structures in place. If you’re feeling stuck or need inspiration on how to get the happy hormones flowing, this book can give you a boost.