The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo – Reviewed by Sarah

Stepping away from her traditional settings, Bardugo transports us back in time to Madrid in the late 16th century, into a society still contending with the aftermath of the failed Spanish Armada. 

Tensions are high and finding someone you can trust is rare, yet young Luzia takes a risk and reveals her hidden magic to the world in the hopes that it will let her escape the life of a scullion. Her “little miracles” draw the attention of the rich and powerful, wanting to use her as a pawn in their game to gain political leverage.

Can Luiza overcome her ambition, take control of her narrative and learn the meaning of power, betrayal and love? Or will it drive her to the pyres?

Bardugo has combined her classic subtle magic with a historical setting and a propulsive plot to create a book that I could not put down.

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James by Percival Everett – Reviewed by Sarah

This retelling of Huckleberry Finn flips the perspective of events and restores Jim’s humanity in the process. Getting the perfect balance between comic and thought-provoking, Everett manages to write a novel that tackles the complex legacy that the original text carries, but also maintains respect for Twain’s work. Thrilling, witty and heartbreaking, this book is nothing short of brilliant. 

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How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin – Reviewed by Vicky

In her teens, Frances was told by a fortune teller that she’d be murdered. Convinced that this would come to pass, she sets about solving her murder – before it’s been committed.

Her friends and neighbours think she’s crazy but when her body is discovered, there are signs of foul play – perhaps they should have listened to her. Frances’ great-niece Annie has been chosen by her relative to investigate the crime – if she is the first to solve it within the week, she inherits a vast fortune. 

A multi-layered misdemeanour, and an entertaining, original take on a favourite genre. Perfect for those who like their cosy crime to come with a difference.

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The Husbands by Holly Gramazio – Reviewed by Vicky

Lauren comes back from a night-out to find a strange man in her house. Stranger still, this man is her husband. All her friends and family know him, and they share a past that she can’t remember. 

But wait for it…when the husband goes into the attic, he comes back down as a brand new man. Bonkers right? There’s Michael, Kieran, Carter and Felix and 200 more. When you can reset your life, consequences go out the window – but Lauren will get into many sticky situations along the way.

Let yourself indulge in this world of parallel universes and you’re in for a treat. An absolute hoot of a book that hits just the right spot for when you’re in need of some fun.

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If any of these take your fancy, you can buy these books online via Bookshop.org or we have some signed and special indie editions in the shop (while stocks last).