Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

In her latest work, Romantic Comedy, Curtis Sittenfeld presents the story of Sally, a comedy writer for a fictional late-night sketch show. Initially expecting to collaborate with a self-absorbed celebrity, Sally is surprised by her connection with Noah Brewster, a pop star. Their interactions spark a budding relationship, complicated by Sally’s self-doubt and exacerbated by their separation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sittenfeld skillfully merges traditional romantic comedy tropes with fresh twists, emphasizing personal growth over rivalry. The narrative portrays a well-crafted female lead while exploring the dynamics of a male-dominated writers’ room, making this a noteworthy contribution to the genre.

A Fortunate Woman by Polly Morland

Polly Morland’s A Fortunate Woman offers a modern interpretation of John Berger’s classic, A Fortunate Man. This narrative follows a female GP in a rural valley, revealing the complexities and challenges of primary health care, especially highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Morland emphasizes the indispensable role of family doctors and their deep-rooted connections with their communities, advocating for the critical importance of primary care in the evolving healthcare landscape.

Yellowface by Rebecca F. Kuang

Rebecca F. Kuang explores the themes of cultural appropriation and authenticity in her provocative novel, Yellowface. The story follows June Hayward, who, after the untimely death of her friend Athena Liu, publishes her manuscript under her own name. The book critiques the publishing industry and the ethics of authorship while providing dark satire on issues such as cancel culture and social media’s influence. Kuang’s incisive writing and the unreliable narration add depth to an already intricate plot, marking her as a versatile voice in contemporary literature.

Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying To Me by Rob Burley

Rob Burley takes readers behind the scenes of political television in his compelling work, Why Is This Lying Bastard Lying To Me. Drawing on his extensive experience in media, Burley analyzes interviews with notable British politicians from Margaret Thatcher to Liz Truss, dissecting the effectiveness of televised political discourse. The book posits that such interviews are crucial in holding leaders accountable, delivering a gripping look at the intersection of media and politics.