I had never read any novels by C. J. Cooper but this book was on sale, it was a genre I enjoy and the title amused me, so it seemed to be a no brainer. I took the book on holiday with me.
The Blurb
The book club was her idea, of course.
It was her way into our group. A chance to get close.
I knew from the day she arrived that she couldn't be trusted.
And I was right.
Alice didn't come to the village for peace and quiet.
She came for revenge.
The Review
I found The Book Club a struggle to get into. It was a bit boring, to be honest, and I nearly gave up. However, I am quite glad I persevered. The main character, Lucy, has moved for the city to a little village after her affair with her boss came to an end. She has managed to make friends with some of those who already live there and is trying to thrive in her new life in her little cottage.
Lucy is pleased to learn a new person is moving into the village, taking the cottage next door to hers. She will no longer be the 'new girl'. The new resident, Alice, also moved from the city to the village and ensures that she becomes friendly with Lucy's group of friends and suggests that they form a book group.
However, she has managed to find out a secret held by each of the members of the group and manipultes the book choices to cause issues within the group and upset the friendships. There are many coincidences but the story does become more gripping as it developes. The reason for Alice's actions are remarkable and the twist at the end of the book is truly mindblowing.
In the end of the day, I quite enjoyed this book, and it would make a reasonable book club read. However, I wouldn't rush out to buy another book by this author. If you enjoy an unchallenging read from time to time, The Book Club might work well for you.
The Author
Claire Cooper grew up in a small village in south Wales before moving to London as a student. She graduated with a degree in Ancient History and Egyptology and spent seven months as a development worker in Nepal. On her return to Britain she joined the civil service, where she worked for 17 years on topics ranging from housing support to flooding. She hung up her bowler hat when she discovered that she much preferred writing about psychotic killers to Ministerial speeches. She lives in London with her husband and two cats.
Val Penny
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