Recommended Reads

Alli Parker’s sophomore novel Until the Red Leaves Fall solidifies her place in Australian literature with this lush story of the post-war Melbourne theatre scene, and the parts one plays to continue society’s expected narrative. I was captivated the moment Emiko sat down at her typewriter, and was wholly satisfied with the novel’s firecracker of an ending. Get ready to be swept up and left breathless as Alli asks of us; Who should be able to pull and twist the fine threads of history? Who gets to tell my story?

The Peak by Sam Guthrie was one of those books that grabbed me straight away and had me completely hooked until the very end. Mixing politics, espionage, betrayal and plenty of twists, the story follows rising politician Sebastian after a seemingly harmless meeting turns everything upside down with the uttering of three mysterious words in Mandarin. Fast-paced, tense and seriously entertaining, I’d recommend this to anyone who enjoys political thrillers and spy stories!

Heavenly Bodies by Imani Erriu - I thoroughly enjoyed this book. As someone who loves mythology, especially Greek mythology, it was right up my alley. I was craving an epic romantasy and Heavenly Bodies delivered. The forbidden romance was filled with yearning, and the plot twists at the end had me immediately buying the next book.

Monstrilio by Gerardo Samano Cordova - Anyone looking to try their hand at a horror novel should start with Monstrilio. Occasionally gross, often spooky, and very thought-provoking, this book is about grief, love and loyalty. Come for the horror and stay for the characters and prose!

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy - This is a book for those who love family characters and a wild, dark setting. It is set on a small island near Antarctica, which is home to seed banks and researchers. The Salt family are the last inhabitants on the island, until a mysterious woman washes ashore. I had second thoughts on trying this one, but I am blown away by how much I loved it. I can’t recommend it highly enough!