Each month, Debutiful helps readers discover debut authors who are releasing can’t-miss books!
White Horse by Erika T. Wurth (Flatiron; November 1)
This is the perfect gateway into modern horror. Wurth’s main character is haunted by visions of her mother in this gritty horror book about relationships and secrets. It’s the kind of book that will set you on edge the entire time you’re reading it.
The Islands by Dionne Irving (Catapult; November 1)
Set in multiple locations and times between 1950s London and present-day New Jersey, Irving’s book tackles class, race, and discrimination. It follows Jamaican immigrants and descendants as they overcome unjust obstacles thrown at them.
Someday, Maybe by Onyi Nwabineli (Graydon House; November 1)
One of the most uplifting books of the year. Set after a tragic death, Nwabineli uses humor to explore grief in such a stunning manner. She understands what makes humans tick and invites readers into the most personal thoughts of her characters. This is the book to read if you need to smile after a long and trying year.
To Fill a Yellow House by Sussie Anie (Mariner; November 1)
A brilliant cast of characters is the highlight of this poignant debut about community. Anie’s writing matches the energy in which her characters exude. The prose is sharp, welcoming, and pitch-perfect. The book perfectly balances humor and tragedy at every turn.
When Franny Stands Up by Eden Robins (Sourcebooks Landmark; November 1)
This is the funny and cozy novel anyone who needs an escape should read. With hints of the hit show Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Robins creates her own unique world with a memorable character that you won’t want to miss.
Lost in the Long March by Michael X. Wang (The Overlook Press; November 1)
This epic novel is set during the Long March in 1930s China. Wang, who won the 2021 PEN/Robert W. Bingham Prize for Debut Short Story Collection for his debut short story collection, translates his story crafting skills throughout this novel with great success.
Tresspasses by Louise Kennedy (Riverhead; November 1)
If you’re a fan of the brilliant show Derry Girls, you’ll love this book. Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, Kennedy expertly follows a young girl caught between two desires. Richly told, this book is an unforgettable historical fiction filled with mesmerizing scenery on every page.
None of This Would Have Happened If Prince Were Alive by Carolyn Prusa (Atria; November 22)
The award for best title of the year goes to Prusa’s debut. It follows two days in a woman’s life after she discovers her husband’s affair. It’s witty, touchy, and unforgettable.
A Coastline Is an Immeasurable Thing by Mary-Alice Daniel (Ecco; November 29)
Subtitled “A Memoir Across Three Continents,” this book tracks the writer’s life from Africa to Europe to America. Each stage of this memoir is filled with breathtaking storytelling as she seeks an understanding of what it means to belong.
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