Maurice and Maralyn by Sophie Elmhirst
This is the incredible true story of Maurice and Maralyn, who in the 1970s dreamed of a life of freedom away from their suburban Derbyshire home. They build a boat and cococt plans to sail her all the way to New Zealand. But half way there a whale strikes, and they must abandon ship and begin a gruelling fight for their lives adrift at sea.
Incredibly moving and an absolute page-turner, my perfect kind of non-fiction! It’s not just the story of a shipwreck, but of a marriage too and how one person needs the other to survive. But it’s Maralyn’s fierce and unwavering spirit that is the beating heart of this story, and I don’t think I will ever forget her. (Emma)
The Book of Doors by Gareth Brown
When a customer dies in her New York bookstore, bookseller Cassie finds he has left behind a mysterious book.
Small and ornate, it contains an enigmatic note written to her. This is a book with extraordinary power – it can turn any door into every door, and will take Cassie on adventures beyond her wildest dreams. But a book this powerful attracts the attention of myriad nefarious collectors from around the globe. Alongside her flatmate Izzy – and other colourful characters they meet along the way – Cassie must protect the book at all costs. A stupendously entertaining SF/fantasy/thriller mash-up, The Book of Doors is a magical, fast paced adventure story that is also genuinely moving and a storming read for book lovers everywhere! (Tom M)
Happiness Falls by Angie Kim
Heartbreaking, life-affirming, and fascinatingly philosophical all at once, Happiness Falls is an absolute marvel. Mia Parkson’s brother Eugene has never been able to communicate with his family. With a dual diagnosis of Angelman’s Syndrome and autism, he is non-verbal and struggles with the fine motor skills he needs to type or point. So, when Mia’s dad goes missing and Eugene is the only witness, the Parksons are at a loss. The police are convinced Eugene is responsible for the disappearance, but Mia knows Eugene would never hurt Dad, and is determined to figure out what really happened. But when she goes digging into Dad’s belongings for clues, Mia quickly realises that her dad was not all that he seemed.
A deeply layered portrait of a family in crisis that expertly balances compelling story with linguistic and philosophical discussion. Perfect for fans of Celeste Ng and Jodi Picoult. (Nethmi)
The Grief House by Rebecca Thorne
A psychological thriller with ghostly, gothic undertones. Blue has the gift of second sight Taught to read Tarot by her hippy mother, Bridget, she spent her childhood on the stage, giving readings to a trusting public. But once Bridget dies, Blue abandons the cards and endeavours to live a normal life. Lonely and unable to come to terms with her loss, she joins a grief retreat on a beautiful country estate, hoping to find peace. As severe weather prevents the guests from leaving, Blue realises instead that this tranquil sanctuary harbours a killer. Prepare yourself for an emotional and spirited read. (Sue)
