Book club: Best reads for the season

In a world where life moves at a relentless pace, there is nothing quite like getting lost in a book. From suspenseful thrillers to transformative self-help and imaginative fantasies to intimate memoirs, the right read can spark conversation, reflection and even a little daydreaming. Whether you are hunting for your next page-turner or looking for the perfect pick for a book club, these eight selections promise to entertain, challenge and inspire.

Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash
A gripping family drama with wit and heart, Lost Lambs follows three sisters entangled in a web of secrets, wealth and obsession. Their father’s shadow looms large, their mother’s choices haunt them, and an enigmatic billionaire adds danger and intrigue to their already complicated lives. Cash’s deft blend of humour, suspense and emotional truth makes this both a page-turner and a thoughtful exploration of family dynamics. R370

Lost Lambs by Madeline Cash

The Elsewhere Express by Samantha Sotto Yambao
Imagine boarding a train that is not bound by ordinary rules, where every passenger faces the unfinished business of their lives. The Elsewhere Express takes readers on a magical, emotional journey, blending surreal landscapes with deeply human moments of connection, regret and hope. It is a mesmerising tale about finding one’s purpose, embracing second chances and discovering that sometimes the journey is just as important as the destination. R395

The Elsewhere Express by Samantha Sotto Yambao

Rings of Fate by Melissa de la Cruz
A spellbinding fantasy romance that combines adventure, danger and irresistible chemistry. In Rings of Fate, a pragmatic barmaid is swept into a perilous quest alongside a cursed prince, forcing both to confront prophecy, enemies and their own hearts. With its mix of witty dialogue, political intrigue and magical peril, this book is perfect for readers who love high-stakes adventure paired with tender, unexpected romance. R395

Rings of Fate by Melissa de la Cruz

Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
Lisa Jewell delivers a masterclass in tension with Don’t Let Him In, a psychological thriller that explores trust, love and deception. A woman believes she has found the perfect partner, until unsettling details reveal a darker side. Jewell’s knack for character-driven suspense makes this a compelling read that keeps you guessing and turning pages late into the night. R275

Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell

Awakening: The Path to Freedom and Enlightenment by Deepak Chopra
For those seeking clarity and calm amid life’s chaos, Deepak Chopra’s Awakening offers timeless spiritual wisdom and practical guidance. Through meditations, reflections, and exercises, readers are encouraged to let go of limiting beliefs, embrace consciousness, and step into a life of freedom, insight, and profound self-awareness. It is both a roadmap and a companion for the inner journey. R440

Awakening: The Path to Freedom and Enlightenment by Deepak Chopra

To Cage a Wild Bird by Brooke Fast
An action-packed, emotionally charged fantasy, To Cage a Wild Bird follows the fierce bounty hunter Raven as she infiltrates a deadly prison to save her brother. Along the way, she encounters danger, betrayal and unexpected alliances that challenge her morality and emotions. With rich worldbuilding, strong characters and relentless suspense, this novel is perfect for fans of bold, adventurous storytelling. R395

To Cage a Wild Bird by Brooke Fast

Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood
In this intimate and vivid memoir, Margaret Atwood reflects on the personal experiences that shaped her life and legendary career. From childhood curiosities to the challenges of writing and fame, Book of Lives is both a tribute to storytelling itself and a fascinating peek behind the curtain of one of literature’s most influential voices. Thoughtful, witty and deeply engaging, it is a must-read for book lovers everywhere. R800

Book of Lives: A Memoir of Sorts by Margaret Atwood

Age Like a Girl by Dr Mindy Pelz
Age Like a Girl reframes midlife as a time of empowerment rather than decline. Dr Mindy Pelz combines science, compassion and actionable advice to guide readers through hormonal changes, stress management and personal reinvention. With insights into diet, mindset and lifestyle, this book encourages women to embrace midlife as a period of vitality, clarity and confidence, perfect for anyone looking to thrive rather than just survive. R675

Age Like a Girl by Dr Mindy Pelz