It's rather luxurious being able to do nothing but read, and I recently got to do this on a week long holiday. The fact that I had little access to the Internet and my favourite trashy reality TV shows allowed me to indulge in this pile of books:
In the exciting lead up to the fourth and final title in the Neapolitan Novels, I wanted to indulge in the penultimate title, Those Who Leave and Those Who Stay. Without giving too much away, we continue through lives of Elena and Lila as they grow older in Italy. Politics, marriage, infidelity and motherhood are explored through Ferrante's intricate style of narration. An incredible saga that is a true modern day classic.
It's 1966 and Peggy has always been sure she's a lesbian, which has been rather frowned upon in her community in Virginia. However, after an affair with her gay professor Lee leaves her pregnant and expelled from University, she finds herself in an dysfunctional domestic life that she needs to escape from. Mislaid is a book that explores sexual attraction and race in a witty, eccentric voice. Nell Zink is a favourite of Jonathan Franzen.
Imogen Tate is the incredibly respected Editor-in-Chief of Glossy Magazine. After being on six month leave, Imogen has arrived back to work find Glossy has had a digital makeover which has been spearheaded by her former, twentysomething assistant Eve Morton. Featuring New York, Fashion and the changing world of print to digital media - Techbitch is light but fun - perfect for a beach or plane read. The Devil Wears Prada meets Sex and the City meets Gossip Girl.
The blurb on the back of The Green Road offers no surprises in this Irish tale. Four children who come home for one last Christmas before their mother sells their family home. The Madigan family tell stories of themselves, their family and their history with exquisite grace. A hot contender for the Booker!
Released 23rd September 2015
As a mysterious protagonist arrives in Casablanca, the backpack containing the most important items she owns is stolen. With no passport, laptop, camera or wallet, her identity is gone.
Written in the second person, The Diver's Clothes is unusual and gripping. A fantastic read.
For fans of Miranda July and Catherine Lacey and the perfect book to read alongside Patti Smith's M Train.
Released 1st September 2015
Franzen is well known for writing epic narratives of multiple characters exploring relationships, politics and contemporary society. Purity, a bulky number, is no different. Flawed protagonists full of secrets, murder and intrigue. It's at times confronting, but shouldn't disappoint Franzen's awaiting fans.
