Best new books: 5 of the most hotly awaited novels of the autumn

Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout

Fans of the bestselling My Name Is Lucy Barton are in for a treat as the novelist returns to her heroine once more. We find Lucy reconnecting with her ex-husband William after he makes a life-changing discovery. They travel through America in the hope of finding answers, reassessing their marriage breakdown on the way. Strout’s simple yet profound voice as she questions the mystery of relationships has never been more eloquent. Oh, read it! (Viking, ￡14.99) Read by Marianne Jones, editor-in-chief

Beautiful World, Where Are You by Sally Rooney

Surely the most anticipated novel of the year. The plot follows four 20-somethings with entangled love and emotional lives. It’s difficult not to draw parallels between one of them, Alice, a novelist, and Rooney herself. The writing is as exquisite and immediate as ever and examines big issues (from class divides to casual sex), and, as Rooney does best, gets right to the core of the characters’ inner lives. (Faber & Faber, ￡16.99) Read by Laura Powell, features editor

Snow Country by Sebastian Faulks

A tale of love – lost and found – and the strength of the human spirit. The author of Birdsong and Human Traces, Faulks tells the story of Lena, a spirited girl from humble beginnings, and Anton, a journalist scarred by the First World War. After meeting in Vienna, they reunite when Anton is sent to write about the Schloss Seeblick sanctuary, where Lena is working. Putting past mistakes and tragedy behind them, the couple find the love they have both been searching for. (Hutchinson Heinemann, ￡20) Read by Jo Morris, sub-editor

Freckles by Cecelia Ahern

This story centres around Allegra Bird, nicknamed Freckles (on account of her freckle-covered arms), a parking warden who is told one day by a stranger that ‘you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with’. This sends her on a downward spiral trying to find her ‘five’. A warm and bittersweet tale about finding yourself through family and friendship.(HarperCollins, ￡16.99) Read by Krissy Turner, shopping editor

The Magician by Colm Tóibín

The latest novel from the author of Brooklyn is based on the life of German writer Thomas Mann. It captures the first half of the 20th century through his eyes, encompassing two world wars and his exile from Germany. But with Tóibín’s usual humanity and insight, it also reveals his often fraught family life and his efforts to hide his sexuality. A moving and completely engrossing book. (Viking, ￡18.99) Read by Tina Nandha, deputy chief sub-editor

Edited by Emilie Hill

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