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MUST READ: Black authors

IT’S A new year with plenty of new material to become immersed in. Documenting tales ranging from immortality and murder to heartbreak and gore, we’ve handpicked no less than ten fictional and poetic books for your reading delight. Moving forward, we will be drawing your attention to more authors within the diaspora who you may not hear about on the radio or see on TV. It is highly likely that you will amazed by the plethora of talent which is out there. Happy reading! #BlackAuthorsMatter

Puzzle Girl by Rachael Featherstone

Love is an enigma, chile. Will clued up career girl Cassy Brookes figure it out? When she finds herself stuck in a doctor’s surgery, a cryptic message left in a crossword magazine sends her on a search to find the mystery man behind it. Bridget Jones meets You've Got Mail in this exciting and hilarious debut novel by a Hampshire based mathematician.

Release date: 16th March 2017

Abiku: A Battle of Gods by Segilola Salami

Best description for this novel? A mixture of supernatural fantasy, erotica and romance which draws inspiration from 'Helen of Troy'. The protagonist attempts to figure out if she is mortal or immortal and captures the hearts of both love interests, alike. Who will win her heart? Londoner Segilola wants to “I want to take African literature in the UK to new heights” with this imaginative tale.

Release date: Out now

Don’t Tell Me You Love Me by Tanya Royes

Set in inner-city London, this fictional tale follows the life of Darius Johnson, a 25-year-old youth mentor who tries to balance family love with his love affairs. However, his world reverses in a direction that he did not anticipate. Put it this way; secrets are meant to be hidden for good reason.

Release date: Out now

Blade & Bone by Catherine Johnson

A forensic crime thriller set in Revolutionary Paris sees young surgeon Ezra McAdam hasten to Paris in rescue of his Loveday Finch and her charge Mahmoud, the Ottoman prince, who have been caught up in battle. Riveting, vivid and inspired.

Release date: Out now

The Mute’s Rebellion - Lionheart

This original poetry anthology is designed to tackle social anxiety disorder - something which affects millions of people across the world including the author himself. Through the artistic exploration, the reader is taken on an expedition, an excavation of memories and experiences which range from masculinity, detrimental bonds and emotional vulnerability to race, prejudice and love.

Release date: April 2017

Radio Sunrise by Anietie Isong

AIfiok, a young journalist working for the government radio station in Lagos, aspires to always do the right thing but the odds seem to be stacked against him. Government pressures cause the funding to his radio drama to get cut off, his girlfriend leaves him when she discovers he is having an affair with an intern, and kidnappings and militancy are on the rise in the country. How will he cope?

Release date: Out now

Murder in Montego Bay by Paula Lennon

Inspired by the country in which she now resides, Paula has penned a detective story set in Montego Bay, Jamaica. This work features a tense partnership between main character Praddy, born and raised in Jamaica, and Harris, a white detective who hails from from Glasgow.

Release date: 9 June 2017

From Pasta to Pigfoot: Second Helpings by Frances Mensah Williams

Pasta-fanatic Faye Bonsu seems to have it all; a gorgeous and successful boyfriend, an high flying career as an interior designer and a mansion in the suburbs. But with all her friends shifting into yummy-mummy mode, a man who seems to have no desire to put a ring on it, tricky clients, and a very attractive and single boss, things are not quite as simple as they might appear.

Release date: Out now

Sunshine & Raindrops by Cairo McFarlane

The reader is taken on a journey of self-love and self-knowledge through compelling poetry. This is split into three chapters, beginning with the Roots travelling through the Stem and ending with the Flower. McFarlane says, “Sunshine and Raindrops was a platform for me to vent and discuss the systematic and personal issues that not only I have endured but countless others too”.

Release date: Out now

99.9% Honest with Myself by Cristina Cindy Prosper

An uplifting story based upon true events introduces Crystal, a young woman with a turbulent past. One day she musters up the strength and courage needed to face her demons, be honest with herself and those around her. But at what cost?

Release date: Out now

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