Longer nights and shorter days, greyer skies, and leaves off the trees: there's no better time to browse bookshops for a few good reads. This October I'm lucky enough to be spoiled for choice amongst the authors I'm lucky enough to call my friends: Warren Chapman, Sharon Black and Linda McEvoy.
Warren Chapman's debut is Koftas and Yellow Rice, a coming of age story set in the 1980's Midlands. When 17yr old Stephen's father dies, he uncovers a side to his family he never knew existed: secrets, hidden identities, and unexpected connections. With the help of his friend, Jay, and the enigmatic Mimi, Stephen begins to unravel the mysteries of his Indian heritage. And when he sets out to right the wrongs of the past, Stephen learns he must also make difficult choices for his own future.
Across the contemporary Irish sea, The Life Daisy Devlin Designed, is Sharon Black's second novel. When Matt Deveraux returns from America and buys Wicklow’s historic Granary House, Daisy pitches for its re-design. But Matt was Daisy’s first love – and she'd once hoped he’d be her happy-ever-after. So, while Granary House might finally land her a prestigious industry design award, she desperately wants to know why Matt walked out on her five years ago. And so, Daisy's relationship with her current boyfriend, James, grows increasingly strained - and James has problems of his own. How much can Daisy Devlin risk before she loses the life she’s designed?
Finally, who doesn't love an early(ish) festive read? Linda McEvoy's The Christmas Market. Jas is back in her home town with a plan to launch her hat-making business at the Christmas market in the beautiful Georgian square. But her mother has a new man and Jas’s old room is a walk-in wardrobe now. Her beloved gran has died and the house Jas hoped to work from is a bonanza for property developers instead. And no one is organising the Christmas market! There’s just enough time to manage that and keep her business plan on track. She certainly doesn’t have time for Niall, the smoky-eyed, posh boy builder, hell-bent on breaking her heart...
Each of these novels come highly recommended - so please do follow the links and treat yourself to your next three reads!
And...of course I'm shamelessly sneaking in a plug for The Almost Truth! If you fancy something to watch/listen to, then here's a link to my recent interview with the talented author, podcast host, and all-round lovely person, Carolina Cioara:
Anne x
