Check out our latest magazine... Read Online

Five Early Summer Reads to Enjoy in the Sunshine

For June, five releases that combine romance, rock, and restorative justice.

The Trial by Rob Rinder

As fans of Judge Rinder will know, Rob Rinder has seen enough courtroom trials in his career to know that truth can be stranger than fiction.

No wonder, then, that his debut novel takes all of the drama he brings to proceedings and boils it down into a powerful thriller.

Transporting the reader from the murky world of Chambers to the grandeur of the Old Bailey, Rinder’s character Adam Green, a trainee barrister who doesn’t quite fit in, is one to stick with. 
Published by Century on June 22nd

Ordinary Human Failings by Megan Nolan

Following her bestselling novel Acts of Desperation, Megan Nolan's second book Ordinary Human Failings, explores the real stories behind tabloid headlines.

Set in the Nineties, ambitious reporter Tom Hargreaves stumbles across a scoop: a dead child on a London estate, with the suspicion of one reclusive family of Irish immigrants swirling in the background.

Published by Penguin Random House on July 11th

The Late Americans: A Novel by Brandon Taylor

Brandon Taylor’s third offering, after the Booker Prize-shortlisted Real Life and bestseller Filthy Animals is The Late Americans, a novel that places the endless intricacies of friendships, lovers and chosen family centre stage.

Set in Iowa City around a potent friendship group of dancers, amateur pornographers, poets, landlords, meat-packing workers and mathematicians who occupy the city’s many facets, The Late Americans culminates in a reckoning that will change all of these young people’s lives.

Published by Jonathan Cape on June 22nd

The Girls of Summer by Katie Bishop

Summer romances are the stuff of many a novel, but debut author and seasoned backpacker Katie Bishop twists this familiar scene on its head in her debut.

Don’t let the title fool you, The Girls of Summer tackles dark subjects through a dual-history narrative – one set in the London of today, the other on a Greek island 16 years ago.

When Rachel thinks back on the first love she believed changed her life as an adult, she realises just how far she had fallen. 

Published by Penguin Books on May 23rd

Into the Void by Geezer Butler

With over 70 million records sold, heavy metal pioneers Black Sabbath are one of the most influential bands of all time.

From the very beginning, Geezer Butler was at the heart of their success. He named the group, provided the bass behind their distinctive sound and wrote the lyrics that resonated so powerfully with fans around the world.

In this incredible tome, Butler tells his rock ‘n’ roll story from industrial Birmingham to global stardom with wit, passion and a surprising softness.

Published by Harper Collins on June 8th.

More from Downtime

  • What to Watch in April 2024

    Our monthly guide to all the best film and television coming your way in April...

  • If You Ask Me: The Jobsworth and the Frog

    There is a malaise creeping through society whereby authorities and businesses use absurd interpretations of regulations as excuses not to provide services or assistance, writes Flo Whitaker

  • What to Watch in March 2024

    From science-fiction epics to supernatural horrors and family adventures, here's our guide to the best new films and TV shows arriving in March...

  • If You Ask Me... Politicians need a Translator

    With elections, resignations and government enquiries aplenty, 2024 is already proving to be a busy year. In these confusing times, Flo Whitaker offers her interpretation of the most frequently-occurring narratives and themes…

  • Dark Skies Festival 2024: Where & When to Gaze at the Stars

    Embrace the darkness with our guide to all the stargazing opportunities coming to Sussex over the next week…

  • Be Well, Move Happy: Walking & Silence

    In our new series on wellness and movement, Sara Whatley will be diving into two complementary health topics each month. She kicks off with silence and walking

  • Special Interest Holidays: Try Something Different

    A chance to take a break, relax and recharge is one of life’s great pleasures, this month Lisa de Silva looks at combining interests with time out

  • If You Ask Me... Who needs Television anyway?

    The first thing people say when they visit Flo Whitaker’s home is “Where’s the TV?” Unimpressed by television from an early age, Flo still reckons the radio has the best pictures

  • 5 Ways to Cultivate Mindfulness

    In the bustling world of 24/7 technology and constant demands on our time, mindfulness is more relevant and necessary than ever. For many, the daily hustle and bustle can become overwhelming. Mindfulness, the art of being present and fully engaged in the moment, offers a respite, enabling us to find calm amidst the chaos.

  • Love Local Community Campaign

    Sussex Living is proud to be launching a campaign to support our High Streets, bring prosperity to businesses and help grow a thriving community.Because if we don’t use them, we will lose them.

  • Summer Activity Ideas To Entertain You and the Kids

    Summer in Sussex offers long, sunny days perfect for making memories with the kids.

  • Summer School - Part 2

    In the second part of our series on summer holiday learning opportunities, Hanna Prince looks at how to keep kids engaged with practical, creative and hands-on activities. Learning needn’t end when the holidays begin. The focus on maths and literacy in schools means that children don’t always get the opportunity to explore other topics – and summer is the perfect time to give their natural interests free reign. Whether you’re nurturing a budding artist, a sports fanatic or the next Bear Grylls, here’s how to broaden their horizons and weave extra-curricular education into your summer routine.

  • The Ultimate Act of Love: Providing for Your Family's Future with a Will

    Making a will is one of the most important things you can do, regardless of your age or financial situation. Unfortunately, many of us put it off, whether it’s because of the morbid topic of our own mortality or because we just don’t know where to start.

  • Five of the best anti aging facial exercises

    Facial exercises are often utilized as an alternative to more invasive treatments for combating the appearance of aging. By strengthening and toning the muscles under the skin, facial exercises can promote a more youthful appearance. Here are five of the best anti-aging facial exercises:

  • Five Essential Fashion Classics For the Mature Woman

    Fashion is an ever-evolving art form, but some styles withstand the test of time, epitomizing timeless elegance and sophistication. For the mature woman, embracing classic fashion styles allows her to exude confidence, grace, and a refined sense of style. In this article, we explore five enduring fashion styles that perfectly complement the mature woman, helping her look and feel her best in any situation.

  • Get your children involved in litter picking this Summer holidays

    Be like the Wombles and become the worlds best litter pickers and recyclers, making good use of bad rubbish, says Sara Whatley

  • So you think you know Brighton’s history?

    Brighton is one of our favourite seaside destinations in Sussex and is renowned for its lively atmosphere, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. With a history that spans centuries, Brighton has seen a myriad of transformations and historical milestones. Let's explore five fascinating historical facts about Brighton that showcase its unique past.

  • A basic guide to insurance by Lisa De Silva

    Insurance can safeguard you, your family, and your property against the risk of loss, damage, illness, or death. In return for paying a regular premium, an insurance company will compensate you against any financial loss.

  • 6 ways to improve your golf game in Sussex

    If you have ever stood at the first tee on a golf course you’ll know the familiar polarity that follows. Your first shot can either go dead straight down the fairway and set you up for a great round of golf or, most commonly, it’s shanked into the trees and you know you’re shooting close to 100.

  • How to plan your perfect marriage proposal

    Have you found your soulmate, the person you want to spend the rest of your life with? If you’ve reached the stage in your relationship where things are getting serious, perhaps now is the right time to make it official. But how exactly do you ask someone to marry you?