There is no shortage of new releases landing this season but finding the ones that are great is another matter. This week’s selection leans into substance, storytelling and that elusive quality of being both engaging and meaningful, whether you are in the mood for something reflective, uplifting or simply a very good read.
Why We Garden by Hannah Moloney
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This is not your typical gardening book. Hannah Moloney sets out to answer a deceptively simple question: why do we continue to garden in a world where we no longer need to? What follows is a thoughtful and wide-ranging exploration that draws on interviews with writers, activists and everyday Australians, all offering their own reasons for returning to the soil. It reads as part memoir, part philosophy and part social commentary, with a strong thread of connection running throughout. There is an emphasis on community, on purpose and on the quiet satisfaction that comes from growing something yourself, even when convenience says you do not have to. It is reflective without feeling heavy, and optimistic without being unrealistic.
The verdict: A considered, life-affirming read that goes far beyond gardening, ideal for anyone who enjoys thoughtful non-fiction with heart.
The Chateau on Sunset by Natasha Lester
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Natasha Lester returns with another sweeping historical novel, blending Old Hollywood glamour with literary intrigue. Moving between continents and timelines, the story draws inspiration from Jane Eyre while carving out its own identity through strong, determined female characters navigating ambition, secrecy and reinvention. Lester’s strength lies in her ability to balance historical detail with emotional storytelling, and here she builds a world that feels both immersive and accessible. There is enough drama to keep the pages turning, but also a deeper exploration of identity and legacy that lingers long after the story ends.
The verdict: A richly layered, escapist read with substance, perfect for fans of historical fiction that combines glamour with emotional depth.
The Nocturnals by Frances Whiting
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Set over the course of a single night, this novel brings together a cast of characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways. Frances Whiting leans into the rhythm of the evening, capturing the small, often overlooked moments that reveal who people really are when the day winds down and the distractions fade.
There is a strong sense of place and character here, with each storyline unfolding at its own pace before gradually weaving together. It is observational, at times wry, and ultimately grounded in the idea that even brief encounters can leave a lasting impression.
The verdict: A character-driven story that rewards patience, ideal for readers who enjoy thoughtful, interconnected storytelling. Fran is a Queensland icon, and one of Starts at 60’s favourite writers.
Simply Beside Herself by Judith Katherine
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This novel leans into the complexities of identity, memory and the roles we play in our own lives. Following a woman navigating a shifting sense of self, it explores what happens when the version of you that others recognise no longer aligns with how you see yourself. There is an introspective quality to the writing, balanced by moments of clarity and quiet strength. It is less about plot and more about emotional resonance, making it a slower but ultimately rewarding read for those willing to sit with its themes.
The verdict: A reflective, introspective novel best suited to readers who appreciate character and emotional depth over fast-paced action.
When Lemons Give You Life by Anna Johnston
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This is a story built around resilience and unexpected turns, following characters forced to adapt when life does not go to plan. Anna Johnston balance’s heavier themes with moments of warmth and humour, creating a narrative that feels grounded rather than overly sentimental. The strength of the book lies in its relatability, particularly for readers who understand that life rarely follows a straight path. There is a quiet honesty to the storytelling that allows the emotional moments to land without feeling overstated.
The verdict: A warm, relatable read about resilience and reinvention, ideal for those who enjoy contemporary fiction with emotional substance.
Murder in a Cornish Teashop by Fliss Chester
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For something lighter, this cosy mystery delivers exactly what it promises. Set in a charming Cornish teashop, the story blends intrigue with a strong sense of setting, creating a comforting backdrop for a classic whodunnit. The pacing is steady; the characters are engaging and there is enough tension to keep things interesting without becoming overly dark. It is the kind of book that feels familiar in the best way, offering an easy escape with just enough twists to hold your attention.
The verdict: A charming, easy-reading mystery that is perfect when you want something engaging without being too heavy.