Support some excellent female writers with these recent releases
When life gets busy, it can feel hard to find the time to read. We can feel pressured to be always on, with constant phone notifications, work emails, and messages from family and friends. However, there is no better feeling than sitting down with a good book and a cup of tea. It takes your mind off anything that is causing you stress, allowing you to immerse yourself in a different world. Reading is healing for the mind, body, and soul – so try to put some time aside (even half an hour before bed) and pick up a book.
Here are our four favourite new releases, all written by women, that we think you will love!
In the critically acclaimed book, Taddeo tells the stories of three real women, who she interviewed over the course of a few months. It is written, however, like a fiction, and Taddeo’s inviting narrative style makes you feel as though you know the women closely and understand what they are going through. The stories deal with femininity, sexuality, and heartbreak in an empathetic way. A compelling read that will keep you hooked until the last page.
The new release by Irish author Edna O’Brien has been described as “courageous”, and we can attest to that. The book follows the abduction of one woman by Boko Haram and her escape, and the subsequent attempt to rebuild her life with a child of her own after enduring such horror. Discussing themes of terrorism, hatred, love, and motherhood, this novel is an emotional journey but one definitely worth reading.
3. The Testaments, Margaret Atwood
You probably watched the celebrated BBC series The Handmaid’s Tale at some point over the wildly successful series, or perhaps read the book that inspired it. If not, you have probably heard of this literary icon. The feminist writer is back with another novel, which revisits the story of the aforementioned novel fifteen years later. Honest, powerful, and full of food for thought, Atwood brilliantly comments and critiques the world we live in today. A must read.
4. Once, Twice, Three Times an Aisling, Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen
The third novel inspired by the eponymous Facebook group is back and funnier than ever. The book follows lead character Aisling (a country girl living in the big smoke) as she plans her thirtieth birthday bash, ticking off typical Irish tropes as she goes. The book feels nostalgic and fun, and you will find yourself chuckling as you recognise the eccentric characters you meet throughout. A lighthearted read, this is the perfect pick to get you back into reading, or it would make a good-spirited gift for a fellow Aisling in your life.
