February offers an excellent opportunity for readers to immerse themselves in a selection of new literature. Despite the cold and dark days, exciting releases promise to brighten the month, reports BritPanorama.
This month features the return of Francis Spufford alongside memoirs by various authors including Gisèle Pelicot and Sajid Javid, ensuring a rich tapestry of stories for diverse tastes.
Nonesuch by Francis Spufford
The latest novel from this award-winning author presents a genre-bending narrative. Set in London during the summer of 1939, it follows a young woman named Iris whose encounter with a tech innovator leads her into an expanded universe and offers her a chance to alter history.
Faber, £20
A Better Life by Lionel Shriver
This novel revolves around Gloria, a divorcee residing with her son Nico in a large Brooklyn house. Her decision to host Martine, a young migrant from Honduras, seems positive until Nico’s underlying sentiments complicate the arrangement.
The Borough Press, £22
The Shock of the Light by Lori Inglis Hall
Set against the backdrop of an impending Second World War, the novel tells the story of twins Theo and Thesa, whose personal secrets create distance between them. As he joins the air force and she undertakes covert operations in occupied France, the resulting impact is far-reaching.
The Borough Press, £18.99
Weavingshaw by Heba Al-Wasity
In a gripping tale, Leena Al-Sayer, desperate to help her ill brother, seeks out a merchant offering to trade secrets for desires. Expectations spiral as the unfolding events challenge the characters in this gothic fantasy and slow-burning romance.
Bantam, £20
Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash
Celebrated by the likes of Lena Dunham, this novel unfurls the lives of three sisters grappling with the fallout from their parents’ unconventional marriage. It expertly navigates themes of familial dysfunction while intertwining elements of crime, populating the narrative with dark humour and sharp wit.
Doubleday, £16.99
Crux by Gabriel Tallent
A thought-provoking account of two impoverished Californian teenagers aspiring to become renowned rock climbers, this narrative encapsulates themes of hope and friendship. It has garnered praise for its compelling storytelling.
Fig Tree, £18.99
Good People by Patmeena Sabit
This gripping read chronicles the Sharafs, a family of Afghan refugees who epitomise the American Dream—until the death of eldest daughter Zorah shatters their meticulously constructed façade.
Virago, £16.99
Some Bright Nowhere by Ann Packer
Claire, living with a terminal cancer diagnosis, leaves her husband reeling with her last request—a thought-provoking exploration of marriage, choices, and life’s inevitable fragility.
Fourth Estate, £16.99
The Colour of Home by Sajid Javid
Beginning with a harrowing memory of racial abuse from his childhood in 1970s Rochdale, Javid’s memoir balances personal reflection with broader themes of poverty, alienation, and the journey of resilience.
Abacus, £25
Leaving Home by Mark Haddon
From the author of the acclaimed novel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, this memoir explores growing up in a loveless environment, marked by subtle humour, poignant observation, and insights into memory.
Century, £25
Royal Spin by Omid Scobie and Robin Benway
This engaging romance set within the context of modern monarchy combines palace intrigue, forbidden relationships, and escapism, co-authored by the royal commentator renowned for his best-selling biography of Harry and Meghan.
Sphere, £22
A Hymn to Life by Gisèle Pelicot
Pelicot candidly recounts her experiences of abuse and her decision to publicly testify. The writing focuses on survival and accountability, avoiding sensationalism.
Bodley Head, £22
Starchild by Dr Maggie Aderin
Dr Aderin reflects on her tumultuous childhood amidst custody battles, revealing her dreams of space exploration. Her memoir is marked by warmth and an unwavering sense of hope.
BBC Books, £22
Another World by Melvyn Bragg
The veteran broadcaster revisits his transformative years at Oxford, weaving personal and social narratives that capture ambition amidst changes on both personal and national scales.
Sceptre, £22
