The winner of the Orange Prize for Fiction 2010 is The Lacuna by Barbara Kingsolver

See review below

The White Woman on the Green Bicycle by Monique Roffey

This is the story of the marriage between French Sabine and the very English George. In 1956 the passionate newly weds arrive in Trinidad; George has a three year contract to work there, and Sabine is determined to make their short stay a great success. But Sabine soon realises that George has been completely seduced by Trinidad’s beauty and she faces a life-long battle to return to the safety and normality of England.

This is a powerful novel that weaves together politics, history and racism. It is also a love story that resonates with the heat and allure of Trinidad.

Fiona Ashley, Reading and Youth Manager

A Gate at the Stairs by Lorrie Moore

A thoroughly thought provoking novel centred on student Tassie who lives in the American Midwest. The story weaves together two strands of her life - her family life in Dellacrosse and her student life in university. I found myself totally immersed in Tassies' two families - the Keltjins on their small farm and the Brinks in the university town of Troy.

Not wishing to give away too much of the story, 'A Gate at the Stairs' captures so much - climate change, racism & terrorism. It shares with the reader a range of emotions including love, tragedy & grief. Tassies' take on all of this is both humorous and heart wrenching. The dialogue & imagery is captivating.

I'll certainly be searching out more of Lorrie Moore's books!

Ann Jones, Principal Librarian