Book Review: Crux
May 1, 2026
This underdog story explores the value of deep friendship and connection – and the fine line that can see these tip over into obsession.
This underdog story explores the value of deep friendship and connection – and the fine line that can see these tip over into obsession.
In less competent hands, this mash-up of genres and ideas could get unwieldy fast, but Spufford juggles all the elements with style.
This whodunit doubles as a satire on the publishing industry and is unflinching in its honest portrayal of what being a writer is really like.
This is the first instalment in one of the 21st century’s rare and true classics, and a divinely sumptuous read for days warm and cold.
Though these stories aren’t linked by plot, setting or character, they nevertheless share strong recurrent themes.
A sweeping, intergenerational novel, that has the strength and complexity of women (and their relationships) at its core.
You might look sideways at this doorstopper and wonder if it’ll deliver, but Danielewski is a hell of a storyteller.
Groff’s writing is rich, without becoming floral. She cuts through layers of complexity with a brief sentence.
An extremely smutty story, following the fun of youth, combined with the horrendous natures of addiction, ending on a redeeming note.
This book will leave you feeling empowered, with each twist offering a subtly layered critique on the hypocrisy of the world around us.
In Brontë’s world, unfiltered and extravagant behaviour fuelled by high emotions has brothers and sisters constantly crossing each other.
A strand of humour runs through the text, & readers of McCurdy’s autobiography will recognise her habit of plainly reporting bleak incidents.
A set of highly unlikable characters who do inappropriate things to stay relevant. Sounds horrible, but this book will put a spell on you.
Fast-paced and punchy, it becomes difficult to not feel complicit as the problematic heroine, Thea, navigates her life
A must-read if you enjoy historical fiction that explores social issues with lush prose and charming, realistic characters.
The Vaster Wilds is beloved for a reason, a feral Jane Eyre for a modern audience. I can’t recommend it enough.
Make the wrong decision and it could be your life in danger…This is dark, chaotic and full of twists in classic McFadden style!
The island setting of the novel is a constant presence, with the rocky, ancient landscape and wild weather setting a moody tone throughout.
With such clever and witty prose, it makes for an incredibly convincing adventure into the world of FBI manhunts.
It’s quirky and playful, with self-deprecating Kiwi humour and a dash of romantic sizzle. A delightful comfort read that’s full of heart