Engleby - Sebastian Faulks

Mike Engleby says things that others dare not even think. In the 1970s, he is a university student, having survived a 'traditional' school. A man devoid of scruple or self-pity, Engleby provides an account of English education. Yet, beneath the disturbing surface of his observations lies an unfolding mystery of gripping power.

Christie's choice. We met on 6th August in Le Pain Quotidian near Waterloo.
Scores: CE 8, SB 6, RB 8, AS 9.5, ZH 10.

Remainder - Tom McCarthy

Traumatised by an accident which 'involved something falling from the sky' and leaves him eight and a half million pounds richer but hopelessly estranged from the world around him, the hero spends his time and money obsessively reconstructing and re-enacting vaguely remembered scenes and situations from his past.

Anjan's choice - we met at Fish! in Borough Market.