Book Reviews
The Best Australian Science Writing 2023 edited by Donna Lu
A fascinating anthology of all the latest science, from the climate crisis to genetic mutations to astronomy.
The Secrets of the Huon Wren by Claire Van Ryn
This debut novel from awarded writer Claire Van Ryn follows the story of two women whose lives become intertwined in ways neither could have imagined.
The Modern by Anna Kate Blair
Scrutinising sexuality, marriage and relationships, Anna Kate Blair’s debut novel is the very portrait of our disenchanted, modern world.
Gunflower by Laura Jean McKay
Laura Jean McKay’s latest short story collection combines heart-breaking revelations and inverted realities to strip bare the undeniable truths of very real issues.
The Days Toppled Over by Vidya Madabushi
Vidya Madabushi’s incredible debut grapples with familial separation, mental health, and navigating the unknown. It gives a voice to the experiences of international students, not shying away from exposing the hardships and challenges they face daily.
West Girls by Laura Elizabeth Woollett
Laura Elizabeth Woollett’s fourth novel is a blunt exposé on girlhood, stripping bare self-worth and beauty to encourage us to question it’s value, as our narrator comes to realise it will only get her so far.
But the Girl by Jessica Zhan Mei Yu
Jessica Zhan Mei Yu’s debut novel explores belonging in a new, enthralling world and delves deeply into the complexities of girlhood.
More Fiction to Get Your Hands On in 2023
Alongside fresh new literary voices, and epic tales from old favourites, there’s still a lot to look forward to in 2023.
13 Ways of Looking at a Fat Girl by Mona Awad
Tender, smart and brutal, Awad’s debut novel is causing a stir with its exploration of societal expectations and stereotypes.
Friends & Dark Shapes by Kavita Bedford
A subtle and tender read delving into the limbo of late-twenty-somethings trying to make it all work.
A Year in Review: Best Reads of 2022
Our in-house reviewer Elaine’s top picks of fiction and poetry for 2022.
Seeing Other People by Diana Reid
Eleanor, Charlie and Helen navigate the boundaries between friendship, sisterhood and romance in a fresh take on the classic love triangle.
8 (More) Fiction Books We Can’t Wait to Read in 2022
Eight more fiction titles coming in red-hot in 2022!
Sydney Writers Festival 2022: Top Picks For Your Reading List
Our top recommendations from the stellar lineup of the Sydney Writers Festival 2022!
Losing Face by George Haddad
Losing Face is a powerful, gripping tale that explores the Lebanese-Australian immigrant experience, masculinity and intergenerational trauma.
8 Books For When You Need a Break From the News
Here are 8 books to get lost in when you need a break from the news - or even a shot of resilience.
Scary Monsters by Michelle de Kretser
A profoundly smart, satiric and thrilling novel from two-time Miles Franklin Award winner.
Fiction We Can’t Wait to Read in 2022 (Part One!)
A superb and hotly anticipated set of new reads for 2022.
End of Year Wrap Up: 8 Books You May Have Missed in 2021
Our reviewers Elaine and Fruzsi pick out some overlooked gems of 2021.
Consent by Annabel Lyon
A surprising and dark domestic drama that asks more questions than it answers.