New books on the BLOCK

Ella Dove ROUNDS UP THE 2023 DEBUT NOVELS WE CAN’T WAIT TO READ

Dazzling by Chikodili Emelumadu

(Wildfire, £18.99, out 16th February) Described as ‘a bewitching Nigerian debut unlike anything you’ve read before’, Dazzling follows the parallel stories of Treasure and Ozoemena, two girls living with the legacy of their fathers’ decisions and coming of age around the turn of the millennium in rural Nigeria. This beautifully drawn tale of destiny and magic realism won Emelumadu the 2019 Curtis Brown First Novel Prize.

How To Kill Men And Get Away With It by Katy Brent

(HQ Digital, £8.99, out 16th February)

This darkly witty debut follows Kitty, who gets a taste for murder after pushing a man who is following her home; he then falls on to a broken bottle and dies. With a protagonist you’re rooting for in spite of her faults, this is perfect for fans of How To Kill Your Family and Killing Eve.

Preloved by Lauren Bravo

(Simon & Schuster, £14.99, out 27th April)

In her mid-30s, recently made redundant and with all her friends settled and having children, Gwen feels her life has stalled. In a bid to do something meaningful, she starts volunteering in a charity shop and slowly begins to find purpose again. A heartwarming tale of friendship, loss and being true to yourself, regardless of expectations.

Really Good, Actually by Monica Heisey

(4th Estate, £14.99, out 17th January)

Heisey worked as a screenwriter on the much-loved comedy Schitt’s Creek, so it comes as no surprise that her debut novel, charting the life of 29-year-old divorcee Maggie during her first year of separation, is warm, relatable and hilarious. One to watch – this brilliant book has earned praise from the likes of Marian Keyes, Dolly Alderton and Paula Hawkins.

Maame by Jessica George

(Hodder & Stoughton, £14.99, out 16th February)

All her life, Maddie has been defined by others as a responsible sister and quiet friend, as well as the primary carer for her father, who has Parkinson’s. She’s the one who keeps the peace – and secrets. She yearns for her voice to be heard, but there’s a lot at risk. A poignant and heartwarming coming-of-age story.

The Three Of Us by Ore Agbaje-williams

(Jonathan Cape, £16.99, out 11th May)

This unique novel is set over the course of a single day and told in three parts, through the eyes of a husband, wife and best friend. The husband and best friend both love the wife. The problem is, they hate each other. A clever premise and definitely one that will provoke a lot of discussion. Whose side will you be on?