Thrillers and romance continue to dominate at Waterstone’s Ballymena ahead of Father’s Day

Psychological thrillers, contemporary romance and emotionally driven fiction are continuing to fly off the shelves at Waterstone’s Ballymena, with the latest weekly Top 10 revealing the books currently capturing readers’ attention across the town.

As Father’s Day approaches, the Ballymena store is also encouraging shoppers to browse its growing range of books and gifts, while community book clubs and family storytime sessions continue to draw in readers of all ages.

Top 10 this week

This week’s bestselling chart is led by romance and suspense, with familiar bestselling names continuing to perform strongly.

Fever Dream — Elsie Silver

A steamy and emotionally charged romance packed with tension, chemistry and drama.

The Divorce — Freida McFadden

The latest thriller from the bestselling author of The Housemaid, centred on a wife who becomes dangerously fixated on her husband’s new relationship during divorce proceedings.

The Daisy Chain Flower Shop — Laurie Gilmore

A heartwarming and uplifting story blending romance, friendship and small-town charm.

One Year — Susan Bennett

A moving contemporary novel exploring love, time and life-changing decisions.

Yesteryear — Caro Claire Burke

A sharp and addictive debut examining the hidden realities behind a carefully curated online lifestyle.

Broken Country — Clare Leslie Hall

An emotionally immersive novel focused on relationships, identity and personal transformation.

Gone Before Goodbye — Reese Witherspoon & Harlan Coben

A suspense-filled thriller combining emotional depth with page-turning mystery.

We All Live Here — Jojo Moyes

A warm and engaging story centred on family, belonging and the complexities of modern life.

The Names — Florence Knapp

A compelling and thought-provoking literary novel exploring identity and memory.

Rory — Alan Shipnuck

A revealing portrait of golfing superstar Rory McIlroy and the pressures of elite sport.

Father’s Day gifts in store

Waterstone’s Ballymena says it has a wide range of books and gift ideas available ahead of Father’s Day, with staff on hand to offer recommendations and help customers choose the perfect present.

Book clubs welcome new faces

The store’s regular book clubs continue to grow, with readers invited to attend in a relaxed and informal setting.

Fiction Book Club

Thursday 4 June at 7pm

This month’s title is Fundamentally by Nussaibah Younis.

Romance Book Club

Friday 19 June at 7pm

Readers will discuss Fever Dream by Elsie Silver. Please note this is an 18+ event.

Tea and refreshments are provided at all book club sessions.

Storytime returns on 6 June

Families are invited to join Waterstone’s Ballymena for storytime and colouring at 12pm on Saturday 6 June.

This week’s featured story will be Doris by Lo Cole.

New titles this week

Several major new releases have also arrived in store.

• The Rainshadow Orphans — Naomi Ishiguro

The first part of a fantasy trilogy blending science fiction and Japanese folklore, set in a town terrorised by criminal gangs where three friends seek revenge for the murder of their beloved aunt.

• The Divorce — Freida McFadden

The bestselling thriller writer returns with another dark and sinister psychological drama centred on obsession, betrayal and revenge.

• The Make Believe — Hannah Murray

In a deeply personal memoir, the Game of Thrones and Skins actor reflects on her experiences within a wellness cult and the mental health crisis that followed.

With bestselling thrillers, heartfelt romance and a busy schedule of community events continuing to draw readers through the doors, Waterstone’s Ballymena remains a popular destination for book lovers across the area.

From discovering the latest chart-toppers to finding the perfect Father’s Day gift, there is plenty to explore in store in the weeks ahead.