Whichbook.net

Reader comment
Although slow to start with, this atmospheric, apocalyptic story becomes as gripping as any thriller. With a strong sense of place and time, it would be a good choice for a reading group looking for something a little more unusual.

Parallels
The Dig by John Preston
White by Marie Darrieussecq
An Old Captivity by Nevil Shute

Reader comment
What might a medieval bishop find on the Norse colony of New Thule (Greenland) if it had been cut off from 'the Fatherland' for a generation? And how might he bring colonists and indigenous people back to God? Read this amazing, surreal, funny and horrifying book to find out. How a French engineer of nearly 80 produced this first novel is one marvel: the book itself is another. Highly recommended.

Translated by Hester Velmans

Parallels
Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad
The Pope's Rhinoceros by Lawrence Norfolk
The Last Valley - the film

Reader comment
In 1616 Thomas Cave is challenged by a fellow sailor to stay on in Greenland when their whaling ship returns to England. As he struggles to survive the winter on his own, Thomas has to contend with memories that are as bitter as the harsh weather.
A haunting and reflective story that will transport you to a completely different time and place.

Parallels
The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney
In the Springtime of the Year by Susan Hill

Reader comment
I did have to persevere a bit through the preface with its soliliquy on ice which (in my opinion) wasn't the most enticing opening to what is actually an intriguing story. The novel focuses on the real scientist who developed the idea of continental drift so part of the narrative has that 'faction' feel to it, but there is also a love story which is skilfully woven through.

Parallels
The Birthday Boys by Beryl Bainbridge
The Worst Journey in the World by Apsley Cherry-Garrard
Galileo's Daughter by Dava Sobel

Reader comment
Even if you don't usually read thrillers, read this book. It combines a fast and exciting plot with intelligent insights and great emotion.

Translated by F David

Parallels
Survival by Margaret Atwood
Sidetracked by Henning Mankel
The Story of my Face by Kathy Page