4. The Marriage Question by Clare Carlisle
A luminously warm and intelligent reading of the courageous life, writing and philosophy of George Eliot, the 19th century’s wisest novelist. FW
Read our full review. Buy the book.
3. Israelophobia by Jake Wallis Simons
This powerful analysis of how obsessive hatred of Israel can be a cover for hatred of the Jews was always intelligent and nuanced. After the October 7 attacks, it’s necessary reading. TS
Read our full review. Buy the book.
2. Study for Obedience by Sarah Bernstein
A woman moves to a distant country, but the locals treat her as a threat. Discomfiting and eerie, it’s the year’s best novel, and ought to win the Booker Prize. CRC
Read our full review. Buy the book.
1. France on Trial by Julian Jackson
This account of Philippe Pétain’s 1945 trial for high treason is a superb achievement, both reconstructing France’s Vichy shame and thoughtfully analysing its aftermath. SH
Read our full review. Buy the book.
Contributors: Cal Revely-Calder, Simon Heffer, Frances Wilson, Tim Stanley, Ada Wordsworth, Neil McCormick, Jake Kerridge, Declan Ryan, Simon Ings, Emily Bearn, Tristram Fane Saunders
