The bestseller charts have been dominated by Richard Osman's latest book 'The Last Devil to Die'. It has broken numerous records and this week was declared the fastest-selling British hardback novel in history.
Whether you enjoy his books or not, it's comforting, I think, that these stories, without gore or violence are proving so popular. Now more than ever, perhaps, it's good to escape to characters and situations where humour, kindness and community dominate.
Murder mysteries or crime novels do particularly well when the world is unsettled and troubling. We like them for the resolution and justice they offer, it seems.
However I read an article this week which said that 'cosy crime' promises something more. There's no omniscient being, no Sherlock Holmes or superhuman detective solving the crime. Instead it's an ordinary individual, or in Osman's books, a tightknit group of pensioners. And the message we can take from this is that we can all be part of the solution, we can each do our bit in putting things right. Something to think about?!
On other matters...
Thank you to everyone for your understanding last week. It was very disappointing not to have Victoria join us for what would have been a near-capacity audience. However I understand that she is now feeling much better and am delighted to announce another date for her visit. Details about the new arrangements are below.
This new date means that we have a cluster of author events in November! Let's think of it as a little autumn booklovers festival! It's certainly a treat to have these authors join us at the beautiful Riverside Cinema.
So do come along to meet crime writer Nicola Upson as she takes us to 1930s Hollywood. 'Shot with Crimson' is a gripping, nostalgic story of glamour, gentleness, respect and propriety (with a crime to solve). It's a lovely escapist read, beautifully written. And Nicola was writing in the Times recently about her inspiration in Daphne du Maurier's book 'Rebecca'.
And meet tv presenter Adam Henson as he shares his memories of family and farming. There'll be fun and laughter, as well as plenty to think about regarding food production and caring for rare breeds, like the Suffolk Punch, plus much more.
By receiving the book with your ticket, these events are great value for money, I hope you agree. Not only will you have a lovely evening but you will also take away hours of reading entertainment for you or, as Christmas approaches, to hand on as a very special gift.
Reserve your place before Thursday to take advantage of the Early Bird Discount on your ticket price!
Before all this, though, we have our Monthly Book Group meeting fast approaching. I'd be grateful if you would let me know if you are hoping to come along on Monday 30 October so that I can get the room ready and also order in enough books for our November meeting. Please reply to this email to let me know.
One more thing to mention - the Southwold Literary Festival relaunches on 4-5 November with a varied and interesting programme of authors speaking. I'll be there interviewing John Boyne and Louis de Bernières and hope to see you too!
Thank you for reading.