The Wonderful World of Minotaur

I did it – I finally hit my Goodreads goal of 20 books this year! Considering I only read 12 last year, I’m feeling pretty proud of myself. With November still going strong, I’m pushing for 24, but for now, here are the five books that have been my favourites so far:

Sweet Heat by Bolu Babalola

The sequel to her debut novel Honey & Spice, this was one I’d been eagerly waiting for. I was so excited to read it that I avoided the snippet Bolu posted on her blog – I wanted to experience the full thing as a cohesive project. And it did not disappoint. This one is for the real yearners. It is a very Black British book and, though it could be cringe sometimes (not as cringe as Honey & Spice), it had me giggling and kicking my feet.

Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite 

Maybe I have a thing for second novels? This was the long-awaited return from Oyinkan Braithwaite, and she surpassed her debut by far. Following the Falodun family and generations of cursed women, this novel explores some of the most compelling facets of love, loss and legacy, as well as superstitions.

Matriarch by Tina Knowles 

Would I even be me if I didn’t read Beyoncé’s mother’s autobiography? As part of my foray into the world of audiobooks, I’ve been listening to more memoirs on my walks. Hearing Ms Tina talk about growing up in the South was fascinating. Her life before marriage and before her two incredible daughters was captivating. And of course, I loved getting into some Beyonce lore along the way!

Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston 

The main reason I am adding this book to this list is because of how pleasantly it surprised me. It took me about three attempts to finally get into this book, and when I did, I couldn’t put it down. There’s something about a book set in a different time and place that can be utterly mesmerising. And, as always, I’m a sucker for a good love story – even one that ends  in tragedy. 

One Day by David Nicholls 

Speaking of love stories ending in tragedy… I had to include my favourite book from my Love Month reads (see: minoreads). Fortunately or unfortunately, I had already watched the Netflix series last year, and when a colleague recommended that I read the book, I caved. I couldn’t put it down. There’s something about a slow-burn romance that unfolds across years that is so beautiful to follow across the pages.