It's grim right now isn't it? It's basically pitch black by 4pm, The Beast From The East II is heading our way, like the world's worst film sequel, and nothing in politics makes sense any more. But the good news is, you can always transform yourself to a different world with an amazing book. Enter: The Bindings by Bridget Collins and four others books that will totally transport you...
Grazia books - 15 January
1 of 5The Binding - Bridget Collins (Borough Press)
Destined to be one of the biggest books of the year, this unforgettable novel is about bookbinders … yet so much more. Because it's set in a historical world where binding one's memories in a book enables you to harness and then forget them. Part fantasy, part faux-history, part heart-in-your throat love story, this is Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind meets The Miniaturist, and still manages to say something profound about how we're all using social media to control our own narratives. By spring it'll be the novel we're nagging our friends to read so we can discuss it endlessly. …and other books to transport you far from dreary January
2 of 5The Mermaid & Mrs Hancock - Imogen Hermes Gowar (Vintage)
Set in Georgian London, albeit a slightly surreal one where plots may hinge upon the capture of a mermaid, this Women's Prize nominee is full of courtesans, adventurers and filthy London streets full of secrets. The attention to detail is luxurious but the tone never so serious as to seem indulgent. The author was a former museum curator and it shows, as the sense of time and place is lavishly depicted, which makes the fantastical moments all the more enjoyable. A must for fans of The Essex Serpent or Crimson Petal and the White.
3 of 5Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell - Susanna Clarke (Bloomsbury)
A tale of sparring magicians in Victorian England, this elegant and fantastical story was rightly a huge bestseller. The reclusive, enigmatic Mr Norell is challenged by flashy newcomer Jonathan Strange, leading to tales of derring-do, magical libraries in country estates and a London which feels a world away yet strangely familiar - all in the name of what 'modern' magic needs to be. A huge, indulgent, chunky cardigan of a novel to get lost in while ignoring the rest of the world and surviving on endless toast and tea until the final chapter.
4 of 5Good Omens - Terry Pratchett & Neil Gaiman (Corgi)
This iconic collaboration between Pratchett and Gaiman has a glossy TV adaptation out this spring and for now it's the perfect place to start with either author's work. An angel and demon are living a cosy life in England when they realise End Times are near. Featuring the four horsemen of the apocalypse, the antichrist as a small boy living in rural Oxfordshire and acres of Pratchett's quirky humour, it's jaunty, ironic fun which remains smart enough to be a genuinely satisfying read for those who prefer their fantasy silly not frilly.
5 of 5Louis & Louise - Julie Cohen (Orion)
One life lived two different ways is the central conceit of this novel, in which we follow 'Lou' as they live as both male and female, that final 'e' on their name making all the difference. It's not a new idea, but this is a modern take told with heart. Sliding Doors meets Life After Life, it's full of 'what ifs' and alternate realities which entirely depend on how invested we are in the characters - and luckily with writing like this, the reader is on board throughout. The complicated structure works brilliantly and both iterations of Lou are intriguing to spend time with.