Our team at Readings Doncaster are lovers of everything from Fantasy to literary realism to unique new kids books, so they are guaranteed to have great recommendations for your next read! You can always get expert advice on your TBR by visiting the shop and asking our lovely booksellers, but in the meantime here's a curated guide to some of the books they've been loving.
Georgia recommends The Gormenghast Trilogy by Mervyn Peake
I read Mervyn Peake’s Gormenghast last year, and I’ve been preoccupied with ‘comedy of manners’ style fantasy novels ever since. I think my favourite is The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison. It details the (unexpectedly charming) political intrigues of a half-goblin exile who, by way of a freak airship accident, ascends the throne of a bloodthirsty Elven empire.
Right now, I’m reading The Justice of Kings by Richard Swan, an impressive grimdark debut which follows the murder investigations of an unflinching Imperial magistrate and his law clerk apprentice. The law rules above all, and each case reads like a legal reasoning puzzle – however, trust that this book is a gruelling thriller in disguise
Carolyn recommends Dusk by Robbie Arnott
Our senses are heightened as Robbie Arnott deftly immerses us in the Tasmanian landscape. Siblings Floyd and Iris, haunted by their past, are on a quest to change their circumstances, and choices, of their convict parents. An elusive beast – Dusk, the blue-black panther – has a bounty on her head, many are tempted and their motives, not always honourable. The ‘pub-tales’ and mythology run alongside the brutal reality of killing, death and survival. Are Floyd’s and Iris’s instincts, and desire, for freedom so different from this wild cat?
I could not put this down; Robbie’s writing is awe-inspiring.
Yasmin recommends Talking at Night by Claire Daverley
For fans of Sally Rooney, this was an incredible debut that had me sobbing at 2am. Following three characters through the stages of their lives that form an unbreakable bond, only to be ripped apart and brought back together. This story tore me apart and put me back together, and is one I still can't stop thinking about.
Anson recommends Invisible Boys by Holden Sheppard
Reminiscent to emotionally devastating memoir Holding the Man by Timothy Conigrave, Invisible Boys explores much of the same themes of immense scrutiny against those who identified as being gay and the internal struggle of those individuals. However, Invisible Boys becomes particularly more depressing once the reader learns it is set in 2017; a time much closer to our present day. The three main characters: Zeke, Hammer, and Charlie in the conservative town of Geraldton must confront themselves and others as they battle with their identity.
Simply an incredible read that is raw, emotional and most importantly, powerful; a must read for everyone.
Harvey recommends Klara and the Sun by Kazuo Ishiguro for adults...
This is an achingly tender exploration of perception, belief and the complexities of love.
... and Stickboy by Rebecca Young for kids!
Stickboy might be one of the most beautifully illustrated picture books I've ever seen. A story of beauty, determination and resilience. I also really recommend Snail by Minu Kim – it's a starkly illustrated story about going at your own pace.
Thomas recommends Search History by Amy Taylor
Explores the complex world of dating after a long term relationship. Set in inner Melbourne, Search History is a fast paced literary read that I could not put down. It will leave you thinking about social media and how interact in the modern world.
