There's a book group in Hook, Hampshire. They let us know that they were reading the Land of Decoration by Grace McCleen and wondered if we'd be interested in featuring their discussion. Why not? We said. Here's what some of them had to say about it:

Fiona

Having read the initial first page from the publishers describing the book so positively I was very sceptical of what to find.I usually find that over selling leads me only to disappointment; but I read on with an open mind. I found the book was different, and the story refreshingly new. After the descriptions of the land of decoration, I thought the book would move on to a typical story of childhood and one parent family issues. Not so, the book built on the image and importance of the land of decoration, I did not expect it to be so powerfully intertwined with the story. The plot became deeper and more involving with the characters following a theme of religious beliefs, loss and sorrow which was unusual for me to read and enjoy. As the book moved into the final part of the plot, I was surprised and intreged by the writer, I did not expect the plot twists and only after finishing it did I look back and recognise the clues and subtly written pieces I had missed. There is much more to this book than I was expecting, I did find it difficult to put down.

Pru

I think it is very well written. A couple of descriptions would be uncomfortable, edgy, addictive, original and fascinating. It definitely draws you on from the first page and I doubt many people would find it tricky to get into. I would give it an 8/10.

Tanya

Hmmm strangely compelling I found....thought she had quite a sad little life and felt sorry for her and for her father actually who obviously didn't have much in his life apart from his beliefs which he found to hold onto towards the end... Thought they were very alone in a hard, masculine community where not conforming with anything in life was seen as wierd. I would give the book a 6/10 - I wouldn't rush to recommend to anyone and was slightly disappointed after reading the publishers (?) blurb at the beginning about how she thought was the most amazing book that she couldn't put down etc - it WAS, as said, strangely compelling, but frankly if there had been anything else to hand I would have read that first..... I didn't get the GOD - was that a voice in her head or real?

Helen

Well I haven't finished it yet, but am really enjoying it! I find the writer is not too descriptive and informative, so really keeps you interested at all times. It is an unusual story so far, and the girl character seems like an amazingly strong person to cope with what life has dealt her. It is an intriguing story, which is keeping me hooked and I can't wait to finish it. I would score it as 8 out of 10.