5 new books to read this week – The Irish News
New Year, New Reads: Historical Fiction Takes Center Stage in 2025
Table of Contents
- New Year, New Reads: Historical Fiction Takes Center Stage in 2025
- Can a Serial Killer Couple Embrace Domestic bliss? New Novel Explores the Dark Side of ”Normal”
- New Releases: From Pandemic Thrillers to Diet Overhauls
- New Book Offers Appetizing Path to Ditch Processed Foods
- Local Artist’s Whimsical Sculptures Bring Joy to City Park
- NewDirectory3.com
Kickstart your 2025 reading goals with these captivating new releases.
A Royal Game of Betrayal: Minette Walters Returns with “The Players”
Fans of historical fiction, mark your calendars! Bestselling author Minette Walters returns with ”the players,” a gripping tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of 17th-century England.Published in hardback on January 2nd, ”The Players” plunges readers into the reign of James II, a time of simmering rebellion and religious tension. As the Catholic monarch threatens to further divide a nation already scarred by civil war, the Protestant Duke of Monmouth, illegitimate son of the beloved Charles II, waits in the wings, ready to claim the throne.
In the heart of Dorset, this power struggle explodes, threatening a bloody conflict where treason carries the ultimate price: death. Walters masterfully weaves a tale of intrigue and danger, where trust is a luxury few can afford.”Walters can always be relied on to spin a gripping yarn,” notes one reviewer, and “The Players” promises to be no exception. This historical thriller sheds light on a dark chapter in British history, offering a compelling blend of suspense and historical detail.
[Image: Cover of “The Players” by Minette Walters]
[Quote Tweet from Allen & Unwin UK about “The Players”]
Will the Duke of Monmouth succeed in his bid for the throne? Can anyone be trusted in this hazardous game of power? Pick up “The Players” and discover the answers for yourself.
Can a Serial Killer Couple Embrace Domestic bliss? New Novel Explores the Dark Side of ”Normal”
A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage,the latest thriller from author Asia Mackay,promises a darkly comedic look at a couple struggling to balance their murderous past with the demands of suburban life.
Haze and Fox, a glamorous and wealthy duo, once traveled Europe, eliminating “bad men” for sport. But when Haze becomes pregnant, Fox insists they trade their thrilling, albeit illegal, lifestyle for the mundane realities of raising a child in the countryside.
Can a couple with such a bloody history truly embrace normalcy? Mackay’s novel explores this question with a blend of dark humor and suspense, promising a thrilling ride for readers.Mackay’s work joins a growing trend of novels featuring charming, yet deadly, protagonists.As seen in popular titles by authors like Bella Mackie and Oyinkan Braithwaite, readers seem captivated by the complex moral dilemmas and unexpected humor found in these unconventional narratives.
A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage is set to be released on January 14th, 2025, by Wildfire.
New Releases: From Pandemic Thrillers to Diet Overhauls
Fiction
3. Havoc by Christopher Bollen
Published in hardback by The Borough Press, priced $16.99 (ebook $8.99). Available January 2.
In a unique twist, Havoc plunges readers into a luxurious but dilapidated Egyptian hotel during the height of the pandemic. American octogenarian Maggie, content with her newfound home despite the lingering grief of losing her husband, embarks on a peculiar side project: breaking up unhappy couples among the guests.
When a 10-year-old boy uncovers her secret, a bitter and destructive rivalry ensues. While the novel is cleverly crafted with thriller elements, the central premise of an 81-year-old woman battling a child feels somewhat uncomfortable.
Despite well-written characters, Maggie’s portrayal as a nasty and pathetic figure can be tiresome, especially as she narrates the story.
6/10
(review by lily Rose)
2. The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman
Published in hardback by Viking, priced $29.99 (ebook $14.99). Available January 16.
Richard Osman returns with the fourth installment in his beloved Thursday Murder Club series. This time,the intrepid retirees of Coopers Chase find themselves entangled in a complex case involving a missing person,a dangerous criminal,and a web of secrets.
With Osman’s signature wit and charm, The Last Devil to Die promises another delightful mystery filled with quirky characters, unexpected twists, and heartwarming camaraderie.8/10
(Review by Prudence Wade)
Non-fiction
4.unprocess Your Diet In 30 Days by Johannes Cullberg
Published by Piatkus, priced $16.99 (ebook $9.99). Available January 16.
Johannes Cullberg’s latest book offers a practical guide to transforming your eating habits in just 30 days.
Unprocess Your Diet In 30 Days aims to help readers ditch processed foods and embrace a whole-food approach to nutrition.
With Cullberg’s expert advice and easy-to-follow steps, readers can expect to experience improved energy levels, better digestion, and overall well-being.
New Book Offers Appetizing Path to Ditch Processed Foods
Johannes Cullberg’s “Unprocess Your Diet In 30 Days” provides a refreshing and practical guide to reclaiming your health from the grip of ultra-processed foods.
In a world saturated with diet fads and fear-mongering about food, Cullberg’s approach is a breath of fresh air. He steers clear of demonizing food groups and rather offers a joyful 30-day journey back to the pleasures of real, whole foods.
What sets this book apart is its unique blend of personal anecdotes and science-based advice. Cullberg doesn’t just tell you what not to eat; he delves into the reasons behind our cravings for processed foods and how the food industry cleverly exploits these desires.
From understanding confusing industry classifications to tackling those pesky cravings head-on, ”Unprocess your Diet In 30 Days” is about making lasting lifestyle changes, not quick fixes.
“Its a great read for anyone wanting to unprocess their life in 2025,” says reviewer Lara Owen, who awarded the book an 8 out of 10.
Children’s Book of the Week: A Timeless Tale of Seasons and Letting Go
Jonathan Freedland’s “King Winter’s Birthday,” illustrated by emily Sutton, is a beautifully crafted story that celebrates the magic of the four seasons and the bittersweet wisdom of letting go.
this enchanting tale follows King Winter,who,eager for a memorable birthday,invites his siblings – Queen Spring,King Summer,and Queen Autumn – to celebrate with him.Despite warnings from the leaves and trees, the siblings revel in their time together. However, their joyous reunion soon throws the natural world into chaos as the seasons merge.
Through vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, ”King Winter’s Birthday” gently conveys the message that sometimes, to protect what we love, we must learn to let go. But the memories we create can bring comfort and joy long after the season has passed.
This delightful read, published by Pushkin Children’s Books, is sure to captivate young readers with its touch of seasonal magic and timeless message.
Local Artist’s Whimsical Sculptures Bring Joy to City Park
Colorful Creations Captivate visitors of All Ages
[Image: A wide shot of the park with several of the sculptures visible in the background. People are milling about, some taking photos.]
A splash of color and whimsy has arrived at Elmwood Park, thanks to the imaginative sculptures of local artist, Sarah Miller. Miller’s vibrant creations, crafted from recycled materials, have quickly become a beloved attraction, drawing visitors of all ages to the heart of the city.
“I wanted to create something that would bring smiles to people’s faces,” Miller said. “Art has the power to uplift and inspire, and I hope these sculptures do just that.”
[Image: A close-up shot of one of the sculptures, showcasing its intricate details and bright colors.]
Miller’s sculptures are a delightful mix of the fantastical and the familiar. Towering giraffes with polka-dot patterns graze alongside whimsical creatures with wings made of bottle caps.A giant ladybug, its spots formed from colorful buttons, perches on a park bench, inviting children to climb aboard.
“It’s amazing to see how people interact with the sculptures,” Miller observed. “Kids love to climb on them, adults take photos, and everyone seems to find something to appreciate.”
The sculptures are not only visually appealing but also environmentally conscious. Miller uses discarded materials,such as old tires,plastic bottles,and scrap metal,giving them new life as works of art.
“I believe in the importance of sustainability,” Miller explained.”By using recycled materials, I hope to raise awareness about the impact we have on our planet.”
[Image: A photo of Sarah Miller standing next to one of her sculptures, smiling.]
The sculptures are on display at Elmwood Park until the end of the summer. Visitors are encouraged to come and experience the joy and wonder that miller’s creations bring to the city.
NewDirectory3.com
New Year, New Reads: Historical Fiction takes Center Stage in 2025
Kickstart your 2025 reading goals with these captivating new releases.
A Royal Game of Betrayal: minette Walters Returns with “The Players”
Fans of historical fiction, mark your calendars! bestselling author Minette Walters returns with The Players, a gripping tale set against the tumultuous backdrop of 17th-century England. Published in hardback on January 2nd, The Players plunges readers into the reign of James II, a time of simmering rebellion and religious tension. As the Catholic monarch threatens to further divide a nation already scarred by civil war, the Protestant Duke of Monmouth, illegitimate son of the beloved Charles II, waits in the wings, ready to claim the throne.
In the heart of Dorset,this power struggle explodes,threatening a bloody conflict where treason carries the ultimate price: death. Walters masterfully weaves a tale of intrigue and danger, where trust is a luxury few can afford.
“Walters can always be relied upon to spin a gripping yarn,” notes one reviewer, and The Players promises to be no exception. This historical thriller sheds light on a dark chapter in British history, offering a compelling blend of suspense and historical detail.
“The Players” by Minette Walters,a thrilling journey into 17th century England. Don’t miss this page-turner!
– Allen & Unwin UK
Will the Duke of Monmouth succeed in his bid for the throne? Can anyone be trusted in this hazardous game of power? Pick up The Players and discover the answers for yourself.
Can a Serial Killer Couple Embrace Domestic bliss? new Novel Explores the Dark Side of “Normal”
A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage, the latest thriller from author Asia Mackay, promises a darkly comedic look at a couple struggling to balance their murderous past with the demands of suburban life.
Haze and Fox, a glamorous and wealthy duo, once traveled Europe, eliminating “bad men” for sport. But when Haze becomes pregnant, Fox insists they trade their thrilling, albeit illegal, lifestyle for the mundane realities of raising a child in the countryside.
Can a couple with such a bloody history truly embrace normalcy? Mackay’s novel explores this question with a blend of dark humor and suspense, promising a thrilling ride for readers.
Mackay’s work joins a growing trend of novels featuring charming, yet deadly, protagonists. As seen in popular titles by authors like Bella Mackie and Oyinkan Braithwaite, readers seem captivated by the complex moral dilemmas and unexpected humor found in these unconventional narratives.
A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage is set to be released on January 14th,2025,by Wildfire.
New releases: From Pandemic Thrillers to Diet Overhauls
Fiction
- Havoc by Christopher Bollen
Published in hardback by The Borough Press, priced $16.99 (ebook $8.99). Available January 2.
In a unique twist, Havoc plunges readers into a luxurious but dilapidated Egyptian hotel during the height of the pandemic. American octogenarian Maggie, content with her newfound home despite the lingering grief of losing her husband, embarks on a peculiar side project: breaking up unhappy couples among the guests.
When a 10-year-old boy uncovers her secret, a bitter and destructive rivalry ensues. While the novel is cleverly crafted with thriller elements, the central premise of an 81-year-old woman battling a child feels somewhat uncomfortable.
Despite well-written characters, Maggie’s portrayal as a nasty and pathetic figure can be tiresome, especially as she narrates the story.
6/10
(review by lily Rose)
-
The Last Devil to Die by Richard Osman
Published in hardback by Viking,priced $29.99 (ebook $14.99). Available January 16.
Richard Osman returns with the fourth installment in his beloved Thursday Murder Club series. this time, the intrepid retirees of Coopers Chase find themselves entangled in a complex case involving a missing person, a risky criminal, and a web of secrets.
With Osman’s signature wit and charm, The Last Devil to Die promises another delightful mystery filled with quirky characters, unexpected twists, and heartwarming camaraderie.
8/10
(Review by prudence Wade)
Non-fiction
- Unprocess Your Diet In 30 Days by Johannes Cullberg
Published by piatkus, priced $16.99 (ebook $9.99). Available January 16.
Johannes Cullberg’s latest book offers a practical guide to transforming your eating habits in just 30 days.
unprocess Your diet In 30 Days aims to help readers ditch processed foods and embrace a whole-food approach to nutrition.
With Cullberg’s expert advice and easy-to-follow steps, readers can expect to experiance improved energy levels, better digestion, and overall well-being.
New Book Offers Appetizing Path to Ditch Processed Foods
Johannes Cullberg’s “Unprocess Your Diet In 30 Days” provides a refreshing and practical guide to reclaiming your health from the grip of ultra-processed foods.
In a world saturated with diet fads and fear-mongering about food, Cullberg’s approach is a breath of fresh air.He steers clear of demonizing food groups and rather offers a joyful 30-day journey back to the pleasures of real, whole foods.
What sets this book apart is its unique blend of personal anecdotes and science-based advice. Cullberg doesn’t just tell you what *not* to eat; he delves into the reasons behind our cravings for processed foods and how the food industry cleverly exploits these desires.
From understanding confusing industry classifications to tackling those pesky cravings, Cullberg equips readers with the knowledge and tools they need to make sustainable changes.