Octavia by Jilly Cooper
Jilly Cooper’s novels are renowned for their heady escapism, and none exemplifies this better than her delightful 70s romcom, Octavia. The story follows our wonderfully flawed heroine, Octavia, whose romantic entanglements with an engaged heartthrob and a charming Welshman take readers on a journey filled with humor, passion, and sheer joy. This book is a perfect blend of fun and escapism, making it a must-read.
Publisher: Corgi, Price: £9.99
Welcome to Glorious Tuga by Francesca Segal
In this captivating tale, British zoologist Charlotte Walker embarks on a fellowship on the small and enchanting island of Tuga, where she is supposedly studying an endangered species of tortoises. However, her true motive is to uncover a personal mystery that weighs heavily on her heart. Segal’s narrative is warm, compulsive, and utterly transportive, inviting readers to lose themselves in its pages.
Publisher: Chatto & Windus, Price: £18.99
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
The first installment in a trilogy from the acclaimed Jamaican author and Booker Prize winner, this mesmerizing novel transports readers to a mythological Africa. The protagonist, a skilled hunter, embarks on an extraordinary quest to find a mysterious lost child, encountering a witch, a giant, and a shape-shifting leopard along the way. It’s a rich tapestry of adventure and mythology that captivates the imagination.
Publisher: Penguin, Price: £9.99
Neither Here Nor There by Bill Bryson
Bill Bryson’s humorous escapades across Europe—from the remote reaches of Norway to the picturesque Lake Como and Capri—remain as laugh-out-loud comical as they were upon their initial release in 1991. Revisiting this memoir three decades later adds an extra layer of nostalgia, peppered with charming details of a bygone era, such as traveler’s cheques and smoky bars.
Publisher: Black Swan, Price: £10.99
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan
When Rachel Chu travels to Singapore to spend the summer with her boyfriend’s family, she is blindsided by the jaw-dropping wealth that surrounds her. This satirical gem, which later inspired a hit Hollywood film, is a hilarious and riotous exploration of love, wealth, and cultural clashes. Kwan’s witty writing and sharp observations make for a delightful read.
Publisher: Atlantic, Price: £9.99
This Lovely City by Louise Hare
Set in post-war London, This Lovely City follows a jazz musician who disembarks from the Empire Windrush, only to find himself falling in love amidst a backdrop of vibrant community life. However, a shocking discovery thrusts him into a gripping mystery that keeps readers on their toes. Hare’s storytelling immerses us in themes of belonging and identity, making it a truly engaging read.
Publisher: HQ, Price: £9.99
A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
The first book in a groundbreaking series that has sparked a whole new genre, A Court of Thorns and Roses invites readers to step into a mesmerizing world inspired by Beauty and the Beast. The story follows a young huntress who finds herself held captive in a magical realm, where passion and peril intertwine in a beautifully crafted narrative.
Publisher: Bloomsbury, Price: £9.99
The Gentleman in Peru by André Aciman
From the author of the beloved Call Me By Your Name, this enchanting novel is set against the backdrop of the stunning Amalfi coast. A group of friends invites an enigmatic older man into their circle, leading to profound and sensual explorations of friendship and desire. Aciman’s lyrical prose draws readers into a world of allure and contemplation.
Publisher: Faber, Price: £12.99
Still Life by Sarah Winman
In the beautiful setting of 1944 Tuscany, the unexpected meeting between Evelyn, a 60-something art historian, and Ulysses, a young British soldier, sets off a series of life-altering events. The ripple effects of their encounter unfold over the course of this exquisite novel, which is a true celebration of love, art, and the interconnectedness of lives.
Publisher: Fourth Estate, Price: £9.99
Miss Benson’s Beetle by Rachel Joyce
In this atmospheric adventure, Margery Benson, a downtrodden teacher, leaves her mundane life behind to embark on a quest for a rare beetle in the far reaches of the world. Accompanied by an unlikely assistant, her journey is filled with unexpected twists and heartwarming moments, making it a delightful and uplifting read.
Publisher: Black Swan, Price: £9.99
Orbital by Samantha Harvey
The most recent Booker Prize winner presents a delicate and magnificent narrative set aboard a space station, where six astronauts from diverse backgrounds orbit the Earth. As they conduct experiments and ponder the meaning of existence, Orbital offers profound insights into humanity, making it a thought-provoking read despite its brevity.
Publisher: Vintage, Price: £9.99
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
In a story infused with the same life-affirming magic seen in his bestseller The Midnight Library, Haig’s latest novel follows retired maths teacher Grace, who arrives in Ibiza seeking answers about a long-lost friend. This poignant tale explores themes of friendship, loss, and the quest for meaning in life.
Publisher: Canongate, Price: £20.00
Fearne Cotton: The Five Wellbeing Books That Have Changed My Life
This insightful feature delves into the titles that have profoundly influenced Fearne Cotton’s approach to wellbeing. Each selection offers unique perspectives and practical advice that have helped her navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold by Toshikazu Kawaguchi
Set in a quaint café located in a quiet alley in Japan, this enchanting story presents the opportunity for visitors to travel back in time. Before the Coffee Gets Cold is a multi-million seller that combines an absorbing narrative with gentle, soul-soothing themes, reminding readers of the beauty of living in the moment.
Publisher: Picador, Price: £10.00
One More Croissant for the Road by Felicity Cloake
Part travelogue and part food memoir, Cloake embarks on a gastronomic adventure known as the Tour de France. Cycling from one café to another, she samples the country’s rich culinary offerings. With mouth-watering descriptions, breathtaking landscapes, and a witty tone, this book radiates joy and celebrates the pleasures of life.
Publisher: Mudlark, Price: £9.99