Wellness by Nathan Hill

Set against the backdrop of 1990s Chicago, Wellness follows the story of Jack and Elizabeth, whose relationship evolves over twenty years. Jack, a photographer, and Elizabeth, who works at a wellness lab specializing in placebos as treatment, navigate life and parenthood while confronting the complexities of their bond. The novel spans over 600 pages and delves into psychological themes and societal reflections, skillfully balancing humor with its serious tone. This second novel by Hill, following his acclaimed debut The Nix, has been highlighted for its in-depth character exploration and wit. A review copy was graciously provided by Pan Macmillan via NetGalley.

Green Dot by Madeleine Gray

Green Dot, the debut novel from Madeleine Gray, explores a tumultuous affair between Hera, a disenchanted office worker in Australia, and Arthur, her married colleague. At just 25, Hera exhibits a sarcastic demeanor while grappling with the frustrations of her job and her irrational attachment to Arthur, who makes false promises. Gray’s narrative offers a poignant commentary on the modern office landscape and the pervasive influence of social media on millennial relationships, effectively capturing Hera’s inner turmoil. This thought-provoking narrative was also provided by Weidenfeld and Nicholson through NetGalley.

All The Houses I’ve Ever Lived In by Kieran Yates

Kieran Yates’ All The Houses I’ve Ever Lived In examines British housing through the lens of her own experiences moving through various residences throughout her life. From her childhood home in Southall to student accommodations and multiple private rentals in London, Yates combines memoir with investigative reporting on the current housing crisis. The narrative humorously recounts the often absurd experiences of housemate auditions while shedding light on deeper societal issues like discrimination across race, class, and gender. Notably, the book’s publication led to Yates finally being able to purchase a home herself, emphasizing the challenges faced by many in securing stable housing.

One Day by David Nicholls

Having first read One Day by David Nicholls in the summer of 2010, I revisited this poignant tale in light of the recent Netflix adaptation. The story chronicles the evolving friendship between Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, starting from their graduation night at Edinburgh University on July 15, 1988. Spanning two decades, the narrative occurs on the same date each year, capturing the highs and lows of their lives. Emma’s journey through self-doubt and professional ambition contrasts sharply with Dexter’s privileged upbringing and career in television. The book artfully navigates significant life moments through snapshot scenes. The emotional weight of the ending remains impactful, even upon a reread. The adaptation has received praise for its fidelity to the original material’s vibrant dialogue.