Kirsty Greenwood’s Top 5 Books of 2015 So Far!

Kirsty Greenwood, author of The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance has joined on the blog today for her blog tour. She's written a lovely post about her fave books of 2015 so far! The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance was published April 9, buy it here: Amazon UK and here is my review: The Vintage Guide to Love and Romance Review

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We’re a mere four months into 2015 and I still had a hell of a lot of trouble whittling this list down to five books. I’ve read so many cracking novels already and I’m really pleased to share my top five picks with you guys.

1.     It’s Not Me, It’s You by Mhairi McFarlane

This is Mhairi’s third novel and it is, in my opinion, her finest. Like the rest of the country, I was a big fan of You had Me At Hello, but, for me, this one pips it to the post of ‘most amazing Mhairi McFarlane novel ever’. This is mostly because of Delia. Delia Moss, that lovely ginger Geordie. She stole my heart. She was sharp and sweet and talented and funny and warm and wrote comic books. I loved spending time with her. I’m hoping that Mhairi continues Delia’s story in the future because I think far too often about how she is doing.

2.     The Silent Hours by Cesca Major

Okay, this is a leetle bit of a cheat choice because The Silent Hours is not out in the shops until June (although I do believe it is up for pre-order). But I am a woman with contacts in all the right places and I managed to nab myself an early copy of this book from the author herself (not-so-humblebrag).

I don’t tend to read historical fiction very often, so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect from this story set in a small French village during the second world war. What I got took my breath away. Exquisite writing, an all-consuming plot and stories of love and loss that will stay with me for a long time to come. This book is a stunning. It truly is.

3.     The Book of You by Claire Kendal

Oh, I do love a good psychological thriller. It’s the genre I like to read while I’m writing. The Book of You is a lesson is suspense. It tells the story of Clarissa who is being stalked by her work colleague. Jeez Louise, this book creeped the hell out of me. It was tense and twisty and totally compelling. I’d highly recommend it if you’re looking for an excellently chilling read that will keep you turning the pages well into the night.

4.     The Day We Disappeared by Lucy Robinson

I’d heard lots of good things about this novel online and was lucky enough to get an early copy from Lucy’s publishers (see what I mean about those amazing contacts? I’m totally smug about it, I know). The Day We Disappeared shares the tale of Kate and Annie, two women with different secrets they’re trying to escape from. Lucy Robinson’s writing reminds me a lot of early Marian Keyes – it’s incredibly warm and charming but there’s a real grit and strength beneath the witter one liners and humorous observations. I golloped this book down in one sitting. Two weeks later and I’m still thinking about the characters. Brilliant book.

5.     Yes Please by Amy Poehler

I’ve been a fan of Amy Poehler since she was on Saturday Night Live (I will never not be highly amused by her Christopher Walken impression https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6nT9YR7mOJo) . I then fell in love with her character Leslie Knope on Parks and Recreation, so when I heard that she was bringing out a book of essays I had a big old fan-girl moment. Because of my amazing contacts in the publishing world (haha, I’m winding you up on purpose) I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy from Amy’s UK editor. And it was incredible. Amy is so smart. And so funny. I can’t believe how much insight is in that one book. I now keep it on my bedside table to read through every time I want to feel bold and like anything is possible. I recommend everyone read this book regardless of whether your familiar with Amy’s comedy or not.

And there you have it! My five favourite books of the year so far. I implore you to read them all. And then tweet me and we can have a chat about them and you can tell me how amazing my choices were and how much you enjoyed the books and how I have the most amazing contacts in the publishing world.  ;)

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About the author

Kirsty Greenwood is a writer from Greater Manchester. 
She is founder and editor in chief at Novelicious.com.
Her first novel YOURS TRULY is out now. Her second novel THE VINTAGE GUIDE TO LOVE AND ROMANCE will be out in April 2015.
Likes: Books, baths, broad city, bon bons.

Represented by Hannah Ferguson at The Marsh Agency

Kirsty tweets at @KirstyBooks