Land remains on top as Waterstone’s Ballymena readers embrace fantasy, crime and new summer releases

Maggie O’Farrell’s latest novel Land continues to lead the bestseller chart at Waterstone’s Ballymena this week, as readers flock to a diverse range of literary fiction, fantasy adventures, crime thrillers and non-fiction titles.

The latest update from the Ballymena bookshop also highlights upcoming book clubs, Father’s Day gift inspiration, family storytime sessions and a strong line-up of newly released books from award-winning and bestselling authors.

Top 10 this week

A broad mix of genres features in this week’s bestselling list, reflecting the varied reading tastes of local customers.

1. Land — Maggie O’Farrell

The bestselling author of Hamnet returns with an evocative story set in nineteenth-century Ireland, exploring family, loss and survival.

2. Neither Confirm Nor Deny — John Mare

A compelling and timely read that has quickly found an audience among readers looking for intrigue and suspense.

3. Broken Country — Clare Leslie Hall

A deeply emotional novel examining relationships, identity and the enduring impact of the past.

4. Nina Peanut: Major Drama Alert — Sarah Bowie

A lively and humorous children’s adventure that continues to prove popular with younger readers.

5. The Correspondent — Virginia Evans

A compelling contemporary novel centred on human connection and personal discovery.

6. The Killing Stones — Ann Cleeves

The bestselling crime writer delivers another gripping mystery packed with atmosphere and suspense.

7. London Falling — Patrick Radden Keefe

A fascinating exploration of power, influence and hidden stories from one of today’s leading non-fiction writers.

8. The Devils — Joe Abercrombie

A dark fantasy adventure from the master of the genre, filled with danger, action and unforgettable characters.

9. The Murder at World’s End — Ross Montgomery

A mystery packed with twists and intrigue from the acclaimed author.

10. Where’s Mr Unicorn? — Ingela Arrhenius

A colourful and engaging board book proving popular with the youngest readers.

Book clubs continue this month

Waterstone’s Ballymena’s regular book clubs continue to offer readers an opportunity to discover new authors and meet fellow book lovers in a relaxed environment.

• Sci-Fi & Fantasy Book Club

The group’s June selection is The Devils by Joe Abercrombie.

The discussion takes place on Thursday 18 June at 7pm, with new members welcome to attend.

• Romance Book Club

Readers will be discussing Fever Dream by Elsie Silver on Friday 19 June at 7pm.

Please note this is an 18+ event.

Tea and refreshments are provided at all book club meetings.

Father’s Day inspiration in store

With Father’s Day approaching, Waterstone’s Ballymena says it has a wide selection of books and gifts available, with staff on hand to offer recommendations for every type of reader.

Storytime returns on Saturday

Families are invited to join the store’s weekly storytime session at 12pm on Saturday 20 June.

This week’s featured book is Frida the Rock and Roll Moth by Kim Hillyard.

New titles this week

A number of major new releases have arrived on shelves.

• 1873: The First Great Depression and the Making of the Modern World — Liaquat Ahamed

From the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Lords of Finance, this compelling work examines the first truly global financial crisis and its lasting impact on the modern world.

• Villa Coco — Andrew Sean Greer

The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Less returns with a humorous and charming tale set among the eccentric inhabitants of a fading Tuscan villa.

• The Story of Birds — Steve Brusatte

A fascinating journey through 150 million years of avian evolution, from prehistoric giants to modern birds.

• Whistler — Ann Patchett

A moving story of family, second chances and unexpected reunions from one of contemporary fiction’s most celebrated authors.

• My Greatest Race — Ciara Mageean

The Northern Ireland athlete shares her personal story in a powerful memoir charting her journey from sporting success to a life-changing cancer diagnosis.

• Blitz — John Nichol

Drawing on diaries, eyewitness accounts and official records, this detailed history explores the devastating impact of the Second World War on British civilians.

• The Final Target — Nora Roberts

A suspense-filled thriller in which a successful author becomes the focus of a fan’s dangerous obsession.

With summer reading season now well underway, Waterstone’s Ballymena continues to offer a diverse mix of bestselling fiction, thought-provoking non-fiction and family-friendly events for readers of all ages.

From chart-topping novels and highly anticipated new releases to welcoming book clubs and weekly storytime sessions, the store remains a vibrant hub for the local reading community.

Whether visitors are searching for their next great read, a thoughtful Father’s Day gift or simply an opportunity to connect with fellow book lovers, there is plenty to discover on the shelves and in the events calendar in the weeks ahead.