New this week

The War That Ended Peace – The Road to 1914By Margaret MacMillan – the author of Paris 1919 – this new volume is a fascinating portrait of Europe from 1900 up to the outbreak of World War I.

We Are Water by Wally Lamb This novel is an intricate and layered portrait of marriage, family and the inexorable need for understanding and connection. Set in New England and New York during the first years of the Obama presidency, it is also a portrait of modern America, exploring issues of class, changing social mores, the legacy of racial violence and the nature of creativity and art.

Saints of the Shadow Bible by Ian Rankin John Rebus is back on the force, re-opening a 30 year old case in which Rebus and his team may be suspected of corruption – and worse.

New in paperback

The Dinner by Herman Koch A brilliant and brutal look at a family – two brothers, their wives and the kids who need their attention. With some much needed comic relief provided by the pretentious restaurant experience. The Harem Midwife by Roberta Rich This is the sequel to The Midwife of Venice, as Hanna and Isaac Levy find themselves living in exile in Constantinople where Hanna becomes the midwife to the Sultan’s daughter.

Back in Stock – Hellgoing by Lynn Coady Shortlisted for the Giller Prize and the Rogers Writer’s Trust Fiction Prize – this is a collection of stories by one of our countries best.

For the big kids

Allegiant by Veronica Roth

The third and final volume in this popular series set in a dystopian world of impossible choices – and courage, allegiance, sacrifice and love. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak About to be released as a major film – this book, read by both teenagers and adults, set in Nazi Germany is a love affair with books and words.