Adult book highlights

On the birth of his son, World Poetry Slam Champion Harry Baker recorded the first 100 days in 100 poems. A collection not initially intended to be shared, Harry’s humour and joy capture the experiences, fears and wonder of new parenthood. Poems about nappy changing and strangers' unsolicited comments had me in fits of giggles, while one about first jabs tugged on the heart strings. The overwhelming love of a father for his son exudes from every page.

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 18th March 2026

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5, 8, 17, 9, 26, 33 – they’ve won! Or have they? Follow Edie both as a twenty-something and in her sixties as she navigates life with and without money. With friends old and new there are plenty of chuckles and a few tears, plus some headshaking when Edie’s sweet but exasperating husband Ron misses the mark yet again. Who wants theatre tickets when Sue with the hair has replaced you at aquarobics! Heartwarming debut about female friendship and restored family from an award-winning short story writer.

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 11th March 2026

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The backstory of the little-featured brides in Dracula. Familiarity with Bram Stoker’s characters is helpful to truly experience the menace and inevitably of this heartbreaking tale, which explores themes of feminism, sapphic relationships and the effects of trauma. The gothic setting is excellently invoked - beautifully mimicking its 19th century counterpart- you truly feel you are in the hands of a classic author.  A stunning debut which grips from the start and is a must-read for Dracula fans.

Due to publish 19th March

Reviewed by Peters team on 4th March 2026

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This captivating novel is longlisted for the Walter Scott Prize for Historical Fiction. It follows a large cast of characters at the Vienna Children's hospital before and during Nazi occupation, through the eyes of nonverbal Adelheid Brunner. First patient then staff member, she observes as Dr A (the controversial Hans Asperger) comes to run the ward, and all must learn how to navigate life under an oppressive regime. Evocative, thoughtful, alarming: an atmospheric examination of fear and resilience which asks how we judge the actions people take to survive.

Reviewed by Helen Rosser on 25th February 2026

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Following an exclusive UK interview with Victoria Derbyshire on Newsnight on Saturday, Gisèle Pelicot's memoir will be available from this week. A call to change the conversation around shame in cases of sexual abuse and to empower survivors to seek justice, it is an inspiring addition for your shelves.

Reviewed by Peters team on 16th February 2026

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Fresh from the Traitors castle, Harriet Tyce is enjoying a moment in the spotlight. Her latest legal thriller is gripping from page one and both entrances and chills. Short, punchy chapters keep the action moving, as the Witch Trial causes jury member Matthew to question everything he thought he knew. Who can he trust? Would two teenage girls kill their friend? What about the devil? Readers will want to know.

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 10th February 2026

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This unusual book is definitely a tale of two halves; first a memoir about how running has supported Kirk-Odunubi throughout her life, second a guide for those looking to start running. Not so much "Couch to 5k", more for those who already have some fitness but want support. The memoir could be enjoyed as a separate tale of a woman negotiating life through COVID, grief, sexuality and loneliness. The second part is a practical guide for those interested in running, from equipment, the science of running, to inspiration to keep you going. 

Reviewed by Alison Tarrant on 2nd February 2026

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An accessible guide to caring for containers, full of money-saving tips and ideas for sustainable gardening. Whether planting for colour, scent, shade, or grow-your-own: there's a project suitable for every garden.  Clear and concise instructions offer year-round advice on garden jobs like plant selection, propagation and pest control. Each double-spread features a new topic, making tasks feel attainable. Great for beginner gardeners. 

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 26th January 2026

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If you're wondering which of the many ice hockey romances on offer is the best choice to make sure is on the shelves for your borrowers... it's this one!

Currently only available as an import edition, readers are going wild for this title which is part of the Game changers series.

Reviewed by Helen Rosser on 16th January 2026

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Readers will be after Maggie O'Farrell's award winning book as its film adaptation hits the big screen.

The emotional novel is inspired by the childhood death of Shakespeare's son Hamnet, and imagines how this affected the family and influenced the writing of Hamlet. A real tear-jerker. Stock up.

Reviewed by Helen Rosser on 12th January 2026

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Poet Jason Allen-Paisant explores the link between Jamaican and British histories through travels with his mother, in this Wainwright Prize for Nature Writing shortlisted title. 

A collection of essays interspersed with verse, the lyrical prose reflects on grief, identity, race, class, and reconnecting with the land via visits to his grandmother’s grung, the Jamaica Archives and Records Department and Roundhay Park. A captivating read that takes you on the journey.

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 2nd January 2026

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Memorable from 2025 was this tale in which a dissatisfied Cathal reflects on his relationship with fiance Sabine. Not for readers after anything meaty, this is a very slim read, more short story than novella. Nevertheless its observations on the relationships between men and women, at both personal and societal levels, are fully fleshed and will stay with the reader. Great for fans of contemporary Irish fiction.

Reviewed by Helen Rosser on 8th December 2025

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This debut novel is getting lots of pre-pub hype, and has many positives. Detailed, intricate world-building that references Asian culture and folklore; vast scope in content and ambition; political and military intrigue; and a strong, complex female main character. At points the level of detail threatens to overwhelm the narrative and overall pacing, but it does keep the reader engaged to the finale.  

Reviewed by Peters team on 2nd December 2025

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Dogs are being attacked all over the neighbourhood and now a boy is dead, but who is responsible for these crimes? In this twisty revenge thriller, four characters give their version of events.

There is no love lost between the mother and the tutor as themes of toxic masculinity are explored through compelling confessions with multiple layers.  The sons' reminiscences of the animal abuse are chilling. The translation captures the venom and spite of every interaction. A debut great for fans of Butter and Bella Mackie. 

Reviewed by Sarah Lawrence on 21st November 2025

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