Linda Newbery – The Sandfather (Orion, £6.99) ****

Hal Marborough lives with his white, single mum, Tina. But Hal is mixed race, and wants to know more about his background.

Every time he asks his mum, she refuses to tell him anything about his dad, making him boil with anger.

Often lashing out, a fight with best friend Luke finally pushes his head teacher’s patience to the limit, and Hal is suspended.

With his mum in hospital, the young man is sent to stay with his Aunt Jude and starts to search for his father.

The question is, can Hal work through his anger or will he continue to be a walking timebomb?

Linda Newbery’s story of a journey into adolescence is touching and an enjoyable read. Definitely one for younger teens, especially those struggling with identity or a broken home.

CAROLINE DAVISON

Boris Akunin – The State Counsellor (Phoenix, £7.99) *****

Boris Akunin really brings his characters alive in this cat and mouse story set in the heart of Russia. When the Governor of Siberia is brutally murdered, Erast Fandorin begins a relentless pursuit of the combat group responsible and, in particular, the infamous and seemingly indestructible Mr Green, their leader. Not to be taken too seriously, this is a thoroughly compelling read.

Mrs A E WELCH, retired, Bingley

Stephenie Meyer – Twilight (Atom, £6.99) *****

Bella Swan has moved from Phoenix, where she lived with her mum, to the sleepy town of Forks. She sets up a new life with her dad and attends Forks High School. She catches handsome student Edward Cullen glancing in her direction. Something about him seems so irresistible that Bella can’t help but fall for him. What she doesn’t realise is the dishy Edward is a vampire, and even being in his presence could eventually cost Bella her life. A hypnotic, unforgettable and gripping love story.

JESSICA ROBERTS, Brighouse

Gemma Townley – The Importance Of Being Married (Orion, £6.99) ****

When young and unassuming Jessica Wild discovers that she will inherit a country house and a £4 million fortune if she can persuade her high-flying, womanising boss to marry her within 50 days, she sets in motion a roller-coaster project of excitement, hilarity, hope and despair. With a remarkable insight on how to get your man, this book is a compulsive page-turner and is definitely one for the ladies.

MARGARET JARVIS, retired, Wyke