BOOKS: PICK OF THE WEEK

Suzanne Glass and Frank Tallis Wed Hampstead Waterstone's, London NW3

Two first-time novelists - Suzanne Glass (above), an ex-interpreter, and Frank Tallis, an obsessive disorder specialist - will read from their new books in Hampstead on Wednesday.

In Glass's The Interpreter, Dominique overhears a hushed discussion about the suppression of a medical breakthrough which could save the life of her friend. But, as an interpreter, her vows of confidentiality are sacred: repeat what she has heard and her career could be finished.

In Tallis's black comedy Killing Time, Tom - a science geek at school who feared his future penchant for diabolical knitwear would see him die a virgin - is dumped by girlfriend Anna, someone "who actually wanted to have sex" with him. Could it be his obsessions that have driven her away?

Waterstone's Hampstead, 68-69 Hampstead High Street, London NW3 (0171-794 1098), Wed, 7pm, pounds 2.50 (redeemable against book purchase)

Stuart Price