71 is the number of an apartment we return to regularly in Whinfell Forest, Cumbria. We like it there.

‘We’ are Anna French and Dan Hartland. The Story and the Truth is a sort of inadequate catch-all term for what goes on here: we tend to talk about novels, history, food and fashion, politics and music, but there may also be photographs of soft toys and musicians. Stick around and see.

The Gentry, by Adam Nicolson

The denizen of Sissignhurst Castle is probably better placed than most to write a potted history of the gentry, or rather a selection of gentry families, but what emerges from this books is - unusual for Nicolson's supple, subtle style - a fairly uneven book. Some chapters - the story of the 15th century Plumptons, the 17th century Oxindens, or the Edwardian Liberal Aclands - are fascinating. Others - the Throckmortons, the Capels, the Hughses - are somehow less engaging. Worth dipping into, but somehow less than the sum of its parts. Read Arcadia instead.

The Lion's Roar, First Aid Kit

Anyone who remembers when Howling Bells were briefly interesting in 2006 will appreciate this record, which looks to establish firmer foundations for a fuller career. Swedish sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg offer very pretty folk harmonies with a lot of extra muscle, poppy melodies and an indie sensibility. The songwriting, arrangements and musicianship are all of a consistently high standard here, and The Lion's Roar is a record to sink into, and is somehow more convincing than Juanita Stein.