May Reading Wrap Up

Introduction

I've read fourteen books in the month of May and I have been spoiled! Where better to go when the world has gone mad than between the sheets?

Genres Explored

I have read a bit of everything this month including literary fiction, thrillers and even a forray into fantasy.

Highlights of the Month

• Witchcraft for Wayward Girls by Grady Hendrix

  Set in 1970s Florida, this powerful, character-driven novel explores feminist themes through the lens of a coming-of-age story infused with elements of horror, witchcraft, and heart. Focused on a home for pregnant teenage girls, the narrative follows Fern as she navigates crisis pregnancy, complex female relationships, and the emotional toll of societal judgment. The story delves into themes such as motherhood, trauma, and resilience, all while maintaining a tone that is both urgent and deeply empathetic. A portrayal of young women forced to carry the weight of choices—both their own and those made for them. An unforgettable, high-stakes read that lingers long after the last page.

  
  
  
  

  

  
  
  
  

• Ask for Andrea by Noelle. W. Ihli

  The concept for this book was brilliant. We have three characters who have all been murdered by the same man. Each chapter moves point of view and we get to know all three of the girls and what happened to them. Brecia stays with him, his wife and kids in the hope of finding a way to stop him.However, it isn’t just a tale of revenge. All of the girls have their own story to tell and there are some sad parts when they have to see the aftermath of their deaths.A fresh twist on a serial killer story.

  
  

• Nesting by Roisin O’Donnell

  This book was a rollercoaster of emotions for me. I went from being tearful, to angry, to frustrated, to hopeful at the end.

  Nesting by Roisín O’Donnell is a raw, emotionally charged novel about a woman fleeing an abusive marriage with her two young daughters. Set against Ireland’s housing crisis, it powerfully explores the harrowing reality of emotional abuse, isolation, and homelessness.

  The characterisation for this was really well done. Ryan was a brilliant antagonist because he was so believable with the relentless undermining, texting, emotional blackmail and changeable moods. This book is a startling reminder that not all abuse is physical.

  
  
  
  

  

  
  

• The Mirror House Girls by Faith Gardner

  Told primarily from Winona’s first-person perspective and interspersed with excerpts from a documentary set a year later, the narrative is both immersive and chilling. Gardner excels at portraying the subtle escalation of psychological control and how groupthink can overpower personal judgment. The inclusion of music and multimedia elements enhances the story’s modern feel, though some stylistic choices—such as centred lyrics—may not appeal to all readers.

  With atmospheric writing, well-drawn characters, and a mounting sense of dread, The Mirror House Girls is a standout psychological thriller. Gardner’s sharp insight into cult behaviour and emotional vulnerability makes this a deeply affecting, thought-provoking read. Highly recommended for fans of suspense and character-driven fiction.

Book Club Reads

• BCW Readers book for May

  
  

Frank and Red by Matt Coyne

Matt Coyne’s debut novel, Frank and Red, is a poignant and beautifully crafted story about friendship, loss, and the unexpected connections that can change our lives. The narrative alternates between the perspectives of Frank, an elderly widower who has withdrawn from the world, and Red, a spirited six-year-old boy navigating the upheaval of his parents' separation.

Though they are complete opposites, their growing friendship is both moving and insightful, offering moments of deep emotion balanced with gentle humour. Coyne skilfully explores themes of grief, loneliness, and community with warmth and sensitivity.

This book was a warm hug on a rainy day. I am not an emotional reader but this one had me tearing up. I loved every minute of it.

• LT book for May

  
  

The List by Yomi Adegoke

This was a book club pick but I do not think I am the intended reader for this book. I am older than the characters and haven’t grown up in a time where people live and die by social media.

We quickly learn the accusation is false and driven by the fiancé’s infidelity, so there's no mystery or real moral dilemma. The narrative seems oddly sympathetic to Michael, despite his cheating.

The final ‘twist’ only adds to the chaos without offering any meaningful resolution. Trauma like suicide and rape are used more as plot devices than treated with care, and overall, the book felt joyless and emotionally exhausting. I feel like the book hit on a lot of important topics such as: race, gender, social media, cancel culture, mental health etc but none of them were done with enough depth.

• Barnsley Library book for May

  
  

Speak of the Devil by Rose Wilding

While the story can be heavy and occasionally muddled by too many viewpoints, the pacing picks up as each woman’s backstory unfolds. It took me a while to get used to who was who and some of the women’s stories were more interesting than others. The second half was a little slow but I did enjoy this one.

Cover of Speak of the Devil

Quotes

“Life is a big hole, unless you fill it with things, people and experiences and stuff. And that’s what you need to do.” ― Matt Coyne, Frank and Red

“But wasn't that the issue? Why was "not bad" so often good enough?” ― Yomi Adegoke, The List

I'd love to hear about your May reads—what surprised you, what moved you, and what you recommend. Feel free to share in the comments or connect with me on social media.

And as we look ahead to June, why not set a personal reading goal? Big or small, every page counts. Happy reading! 📚