From mythological romance and globe-trotting murder mysteries to wellness, self-sabotage and the complicated ties that bind families, this reading list covers plenty of ground. There’s something for every kind of reader, whether you want an unputdownable page-turner, a fresh take on ancient stories or a smarter way to navigate the modern obsession with health and happiness. These are the books to add to your bedside table now.
Hollow Bones by Jodi Picoult
From the bestselling author of My Sister’s Keeper comes a gripping novel about love, loss and the lengths we go to protect ourselves from catastrophe. Molly Fitzgerald lost her mother on September 11 and has since built her career around preparing for disasters, believing that planning can keep the worst at bay. But when an unexpected crisis turns her carefully ordered life upside down, she is forced to question the stories she has built around herself, her marriage and her family. Emotional, twisty and deeply human, it explores the ties between mothers and daughters and the illusion that we can ever truly prepare for everything. R430
This Immortal Heart by Jennifer Saint
The internationally bestselling author of Ariadne and Atalanta turns her attention to Aphrodite in this lush reimagining of the goddess of love. Born from the sea and wielding extraordinary power, Aphrodite is accustomed to getting what she wants, until fate brings her into the orbit of Ares, the feared and fiery god of war. As their attraction develops across mortal lifetimes, she must choose between divine duty and a love that could destroy everything. Sumptuous, passionate and gloriously dramatic, it’s Greek mythology with serious romantic heat. R395
Bare III by Jackie Phamotse
The latest instalment in Jackie Phamotse’s provocative BARE series plunges back into the darker side of South Africa’s money, power and privilege. Treasure Mohapi finds herself drawn deeper into a dangerous world of millionaires, quick-cash schemes, drugs and secret societies, where influence reaches from the highest levels of power to the streets of Sandton. As the body count rises and the forces controlling her become increasingly ruthless, Treasure must confront the price of the life she has been chasing. Dark, dramatic and unapologetically sensational, it’s a page-turner with plenty to say about wealth and power. R330
We Chase Shadows by Richard Osman
The beloved team from We Solve Murders is back, and this time the mystery takes them from the Italian hills to Palm Springs, via Barcelona and Steve’s local pub. When a body is discovered outside a private villa with a threatening note, Amy, Rosie and Steve find themselves chasing a killer who seems determined to stay one step ahead. With suspects ranging from Sweden’s most-wanted criminal to a suspicious ex-wife and a formidable business rival, the trio have plenty to untangle. Witty, twisty and packed with Osman’s trademark charm, it’s cosy crime with a decidedly international flavour. R665
Mortons by Scott Westerfeld and Justine Larbalestier
Welcome to the Mortons, an old-money dynasty where impeccable taste and cold-blooded murder go hand in hand. Jessica is the family’s golden child and, after committing her first kill at elite Helshire College, she is finally ready to claim her place in the family legacy. But in a world where murder is treated as both tradition and currency, proving yourself can come with a very high price. Deliciously dark, stylish and wickedly entertaining, this dark academia thriller is tailor-made for fans of Wednesday and Ninth House. R395
Make Me Well by Xand van Tulleken
Ever wondered whether that expensive supplement, blood test or wearable is actually doing anything? Doctor and broadcaster Xand van Tulleken takes a sharp, funny look at the modern wellness industry and its ever-growing promise of better health, greater longevity and peak performance. Exploring everything from supplements and consumer genomics to wearable technology, he separates genuine science from marketing hype and asks what we really need to live well. Smart, accessible and refreshingly sceptical, it’s essential reading for anyone who has ever fallen down a wellness rabbit hole. R480
It All Starts When You Do by Kier Gaines
A refreshingly honest guide to overcoming self-sabotage, It All Starts When You Do challenges the idea that positive thinking and inspirational mantras are enough to change your life. Therapist and popular content creator Kier Gaines argues that real transformation starts with getting radically honest about who you are, the patterns you repeat and the uncomfortable truths you may prefer to avoid. Practical, candid and grounded in self-awareness, it’s a thoughtful guide to getting out of your own way and making space for better things. R495
Aligned by Kristen Holmes
A timely addition to the growing conversation around intentional living, Aligned explores the idea of creating a life that feels more connected to your values, priorities and sense of self. Rather than chasing endless productivity or perfection, it encourages readers to look inward, identify what matters, and make choices that feel genuinely meaningful. Thoughtful and reflective, it’s the kind of book designed to be dipped into, underlined and returned to whenever life starts feeling slightly off course. R480
