Intermezzo by Sally Rooney, Tell Me Everything by Elizabeth Strout and The Garden of Evening Mists by Tan Twan Eng

What’s your favourite?

I read for pleasure and also to learn from other writers. In To Sing of War I love the way the different stories knit together. Everything builds, swells, like music. Also, Tell Me Everything has been a constant by my bedside since it came out. The deceptively simple way Strout writes is masterly. Bob is a gorgeous creation, so human and real.

Is it the first time you’ve read something by this author?

I’ve read a lot by Elizabeth Strout though Tell Me Everything is my favourite of her books. Australian author Catherine McKinnon also wrote Storyland, another cleverly woven novel, set in the Illawarra.

Are you having a Home or Away summer?

Home – much to my son’s relief. He thinks there’s no better place for a holiday! For years my family was scattered in different countries but now my parents are in Avalon and my sister lives close by. Spending Christmas together is wonderful.

What are you reading now or next?

I’m tearing through The Burrow by Melanie Cheng. Gosh it’s good. It’s a novel about loss and grief and healing. The writing really shines.