IVC Readers

Twenty Four Seconds from Now
6/10 The concept for the book was interesting (telling it in reverse) and I haven't seen this too much in books before. Additionally, it was refreshing to see an emotional book about a guy, rather than one focusing on toxic masculinity. However, the settings and key themes in the book were not particularly interesting for me - in my personal opinion there was too much of a focus on sex and relationships. I might recommend this book to older readers.

Jex

Wolf Siren
7.5/10 Wolf Siren is an amazing retelling of the common fairy tale Red Riding Hood, focusing on sexism, gender roles and social injustice. Furthermore, the subtle and careful descriptions of Red's visual impairment normalised her disability and ensured that it was just a part of her character rather than all encompassing. I would recommend it to people who enjoy modern retellings of myths, and anyone who is willing to try a different type of fairytale.

Jex

The Boy I Love
9.5/10 A heart warming historical fiction novel, set at the Battle of the Somme, which was so well written and researched. The Boy I Love was carefully crafted and told the unseen story of two soldiers who fell in love on the front line. We follow Stephen, a 19 year old soldier who is returning to the war after recovering from an injury as he grows closer with his "squire" Danny. I could not put this book of forbidden and heart wrenching love down, and was hooked immediately. This is one of my new favourite books, and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone.

Jex

Birdie
Beautifully written, moving and tender story. So much kindness to be found. I loved Mr Duke and was very happy about the ending. Really think this has a good chance of winning the award!

Cook

Wolf Siren
Wolf Siren was a gloomy, dark, mossy read, shot through with touching moments of human connection, sisterhood and honesty. I loved the sparse yet beautiful prose, how Red’s character slowly gains confidence building up to a moment of intense courage, standing up to the infuriating cruelty of the mayor (I think a metaphor for male control of female bodies?). One thing that I was slightly confused about was finding out that Red, like the author Beth O’Brien, was visually impaired – this wasn’t mentioned clearly in the novel (I may have missed it however). Maybe its subtlety was purposeful; O’Brien makes a compelling argument that shapes a character’s experience quietly, woven into perception, atmosphere, and limitation in ways that reflect real life. Overall a great read.

Cook