We break down all the books we read in January 2024 – from forthcoming reads and new releases to back-list favourites.
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver
Rating: A+
Wow. This was one of the most astonishing books we have read in the last few years. There is so much trauma to undergo in this book – think A Little Life levels – but everything is handled with so much care and grace underneath Kingsolver’s masterful hand. The protagonist is immensely endearing, and his life story is an immense journey to follow, as Damon is born to a single junkie mother. Having found himself orphaned, he is sent from foster home to foster home, enduring horrible loss and abuse along the way. The pockets of sunshine throughout the book are what bring the book to life, and it becomes increasingly compulsive a read as you go on. The magic of the book lies in the careful painting of Demon’s voice – he feels so alive. It’s a phenomenal and important read.
Into the Woods by John Yorke
Rating: B+
For any aspiring writers or creatives, this is a vitally interesting read about the ways that stories are woven and what it means to create a story and the correct formats we all follow. There are no revelations that set the world on fire but it is an immensely interesting read.
Rating: A-
I loved, loved, loved this simple and delightful romance. Amy Lea is a charming writer, painting characters that you fall in love with and this read is no exception, rounding out the trilogy of ‘influencer’ romances, with a story inspired by romantic comedies like ‘While You Were Sleeping.’ It’s a delightfully package romance, following tropes including enemies-to-lovers and fake dating – both two of my favourite formulae. This heartwarming romance follows Melanie and Evan and is set in rural Canada – a must read to curl up with on Valentine’s Day.
Rating: A
If Elizabeth Day wrote the phone book, I’d still read every word. She narrates and unpicks the importance of friendship through different vignettes and explorations of her own friendships, from letting go of friendships to the nature of best friendship to loss. It’s powerful, heartwarming and important.
