Wondering what to read this year? Or challenge yourself to a Goodreads challenge? Maybe just looking for something to pass the time during Dry January… In no particular order, here are 5 books I’d recommend — from romance to historical fiction, even a thriller! 

The seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo, by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This historical fiction book covering my Instagram all summer was worth the hype. The writing was impeccable, and some narrations of scenes kept my heart racing. The story kept me on my toes each time with its smart manoeuvres, the schemes, the plans, everything the main characters did, and all the choices they made to dodge unfortunate situations. I have nothing bad to say, which is rare. Although I have to admit, if not for the hype, I wouldn’t have picked up this book. And that would be a shame, so this is your sign to believe the hype. 

Lessons in chemistry, by Bonnie Garmus

Another historical fiction pick, but I promise it’s a coincidence. Until this year I can safely say I never picked up a historical fiction book, but here we are. I love strong female characters, and Elizabeth Zott is all that and more. She’s fearless in the face of adversity, she stays true to herself, and she never lets others intimidate her into being less than all she can be. In other words, she’s an icon. The writing is so witty and brilliant. It was everything I didn’t know I wanted. 

The Thursday murder club, by Richard Osman

A little murder mystery for your pleasure. I originally picked up the third book in the series before realising it was a series. I quickly went back and started from the beginning and poured through all three in a week. I’m not typically one for crime novels but the retirement village hook had me. Not to mention, the diverse characters (looking at you Joyce), and his tight plotting with the numerous secrets and their reveals, along with the comic touches, that make this an entertaining and delightful read. This makes a great break from the dark and grisly fare of much of the crime fiction genre I try and avoid. 

Book lovers, by Emily Henry

Finally, a contemporary romance, my genre of choice and this book ticked all the boxes — playful banter, hardass heroine, a broody guy but yet not a complete dick, and some steamy moments. I also really appreciated how the author made use of their careers — she a literary agent, he an editor — to challenge, point fun at, and subvert the romance genre’s tropes, aka every Hallmark movie ever written. Quick, easy and ultimately fun read, perfect for a summer beach day. 

The No Show, by Beth O’Leary

I have to finish with Beth O’Leary new book, I adore everything from this author and The No Show is no different. I don’t want to give any spoilers to the twist but I stayed up until 2 in the morning finishing this book because it was THAT good. (Note, my normal bedtime is pre-10 o’clock). Truly her best work yet but if you’re looking for easy-breezy, this is not the book (try the one above!), however, if you’re looking for something to make you laugh, cry, break your heart and put it back to together again in less than 400 pages, then this one’s for you! Enjoy…and then DM me on Instagram so we can talk about it! 

And a bonus recommendation for those looking for a little spice…

The Spanish love deception, by Elena Armas

I read The American Roommate Experiment by the same author after I saw a Reel about it and honestly, I preferred this book instead (although both are good). This is a classic enemies-to-lovers trope, with the classic heated stares and intense chemistry you’d expect. I really enjoyed the wedding and family aspect and the simple moments of how being in someone’s presence can just be calming. Guaranteed to make the butterflies in your stomach flutter with every stare, every touch and every kiss. And rumour has it, this book will be turned into a film so now’s your chance to read it first. 

Photo by Radu Marcusu on Unsplash