CULTURE EDITION
February Book Club Romcoms are the perfect Valentine’s Day reading. Charlotte Griffiths shares her favourites
KATE YOUNG EXPERIENCED
This is the first novel by brilliant author Kate Young, the brain behind the fantastic Little Library Cookbook series (which should also be on your radar as a book lover: it comprises some excellent collections of recipes inspired by classic reads). Unsurprisingly, Young’s novel is a complete delight. Newly out, 30-year-old Bette thinks she’s found the love of her life with first-ever girlfriend Mei. However, as a more-experienced gay woman, Mei feels it’s important for Bette to explore her new identity before making such a huge commitment, so puts their relationship on hiatus for three months so that Bette can gain experience. At first Bette is heartbroken by Mei’s decision, but with some no-nonsense advice from her straight-talking flatmate Ash and helpful pointers from the women she meets through her first few encounters on dating apps, Bette soon finds her feet in this brave new world. She stumbles her well-meaning way through a series of hook-ups, dates and casual flings, trying not to break too many hearts on her journey and hoping this path will lead her back to her one true love – but will it? Set in beautifully depicted Bristol and packed with contemporary references, Young’s effortless description and dialogue means reading this almost feels like watching a high-end romcom. You’ll have trouble believing these characters aren’t real people. This is a warm, funny and hugely enjoyable romantic comedy that’s not to be missed – perfect reading for Valentine’s Day.
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE This is the debut novel from already-established author Kate Young
THE WEDDING PEOPLE A novel for those who like their fiction on the dark side. Alison Espach’s romance title is an unforgettable read, which came out last summer and found its deserving way onto many 2024 best-of lists. When you consider the background, ALISON ESPACH
But when she arrives at the hotel, Phoebe discovers she’s the only guest there who’s not involved in a large wedding party. Young bride Lila thought she’d booked the entire inn for her week of celebrations, and although she’s initially bewildered to find out that there’s a guest staying who’s not part of the family, having someone around who’s not involved – and will actually tell her the truth – soon becomes invaluable. This is an exquisitely written slice-of-life novel with twists, turns and all the drama you might expect when two families collide: it’s laugh-out-loud funny in parts, but also full of heart and connection, and it’s well worth seeking this out in book format before it inevitably gets made into a movie.
it’s hard to see the com in this romcom. The newly separated and heartbroken 40-something Phoebe has booked herself into Rhode Island’s high-end Cornwall Inn, a place she’d always wanted to stay at with her husband – except he’s now left her for his younger assistant. Their 20-year-long relationship – involving unrelenting struggles with IVF and infertility issues – is over, and Phoebe is failing to see the point of going on alone.
30 FEBRUARY 2025 CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK
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