Book of the Month

THE SCHOOLHOUSE

By Sophie Ward

Sophie Ward, Sinitta, Linda Riley and Eunice Olumide at Sophie’s book launch

Sophie Ward’s debut novel was the brilliant and Booker Prize-longlisted Love And Other Thought Experiments. Her highly anticipated new book showcases her extraordinary talent once again. A detective drama, it’s gripping from start to finish. I can only hope that The Schoolhouse is the first in a series as I would love to find out more about the main character, lesbian detective Sally Carter. We have come a long way in LGBTQI representation when the lead character is a lesbian and no one bats an eyelid. It would be great to see this dazzling novel adapted for the screen. For more from Sophie Ward, don’t miss next month’s DIVA.

Out now Little, Brown Book Group, £16.99

MEMOIR

TEN STEPS TO NANETTE

By Hannah Gadsby

Hannah Gadsby’s viral stand-up special Nanette transformed comedy. In her memoir, Hannah reflects on growing up in a place where homosexuality was a crime, her adult diagnosis of autism and ADHD, and her non-linear journey to Nanette. Just like her special, this memoir is hilarious, tense and unapologetically open about defining moments in her life.

Out now Allen & Unwin, £14.99

PHOTO JOHNATHAN PHANG

FICTION

YOU MADE A FOOL OF DEATH WITH YOUR BEAUTY

Akwaeke Emezi

This is Akwaeke’s first romance novel and they provide the perfect balance of drama and steaminess. The story follows Feyi, who just wants to feel alive again. It’s been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life. Her best friend, Joy – aself-destructive lesbian with a weak spot for married women – encourages Feyi to get back out there. Before she knows it, Feyi is saying yes to a whirlwind summer on a tropical island. But can she get her second chance at love?

Out now £11.99, Faber & Faber