My life in books phaedra patrick

The best new books you’ll love

by Tony Robinson (£25, HB, Little, Brown Book Group) Labelled a heretic, Father Asser’s days are numbered as he awaits his death in a papal prison in Rome. But in a twist of fate, he is saved by Cardi

As a child reading was my refuge from a difficult time. I could read from a very early age and being able to escape into the pages of a book had a huge impact on my life. Swallows & Amazons by Arthur

Our books editor Zoe West’s favourite picks for the month

Lives and how to live them

CHRISTMAS AT THE SECOND CHANCE SUPPER CLUB By Caroline Roberts HQ, PB, £9.99 We return to the village’s Supper Club for a festive tale of friendship, community spirit, and the promise of second chance