Hello jdm,Ihave not read any of the books you mention above,but I have read one by Melvyn Bragg and wasnt too keen(so I suppose that sort of put me off any others).Same with Sophie Hannah,I have read "little face"written by her and although it was ok I wouldnt rush to buy any more---certainly not hardback.Not much help to you really but i do feel there are so many good paperbacks out now that I would rarely buy a hardback.