PICK OF THE WEEK

MAD HONEY

by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan, Hodder & Stoughton, £16.99, ebook £9.99

★★★★★

What begins as a family crime novel with themes of trust, betrayal, abuse and fear, quickly becomes a poignant note on what it is to love someone, and the beautiful ways individuals choose to live authentically.

When Asher Fields is accused of killing his girlfriend Lily, the teenager’s world is turned upside down, as he and his mother Olivia set about clearing his name - while also mourning the loss of a beautiful young woman.

Commentary about identity and motherhood is cleverly woven throughout, making for an honest and interesting tale about gender and violence. Flawlessly written, incredibly engaging and a source of vital dialogue in a world where trans voices aren’t always championed, if you read only one more book this year, make it this one.