Waterstone’s Ballymena reveals this week’s Top 10 as romance and literary fiction lead the charts

Waterstone’s Ballymena has unveiled its latest Top 10 bestselling books, with contemporary literary fiction, gripping thrillers and a hugely popular romance title dominating readers’ choices this week.

The list highlights a broad range of tastes, from Anne Tyler’s quietly observant storytelling to Freida McFadden’s addictive psychological suspense, alongside strong demand for Irish fiction and prize-winning literary works.

This week’s Top 10 bestselling books

1. Three Days in June — Anne Tyler

A tender and perceptive novel capturing a handful of pivotal days in a woman’s life, exploring family relationships, ageing and the small moments that quietly shape us.

2. Heated Rivalry — Rachel Reid

The red-hot queer romcom that has captured readers’ imaginations, charting the fierce rivalry — and undeniable attraction — between the captains of two competing hockey teams.

3. The Housemaid — Freida McFadden

A compulsive psychological thriller in which a seemingly perfect job conceals manipulation, secrets and a shocking truth.

4. The Boy from the Sea — Garrett Carr

A lyrical coming-of-age story set in a coastal Irish community, exploring memory, identity and the magnetic pull of home.

5. Don’t Let Him In — Lisa Jewell

A gripping domestic thriller where trust is tested, secrets unravel and danger hides behind familiar doors.

6. Hamnet — Maggie O’Farrell

The award-winning reimagining of Shakespeare’s family life, focusing on love, loss and grief with exquisite emotional depth.

7. The Housemaid’s Secret — Freida McFadden

The twist-laden sequel to The Housemaid, delivering more tension, revelations and psychological suspense.

8. The Drowned — John Banville

A darkly atmospheric novel rich in language and moral complexity from one of Ireland’s most celebrated literary voices.

9. Pagans — Alistair Henry

A sharp, contemporary novel exploring masculinity, belief and modern disillusionment with wit and insight.

10. Big Jim Believes — Dav Pilkey

The latest laugh-out-loud instalment in the Dog Man universe, packed with humour and heart for younger readers.

New fiction releases in store

Several notable new novels have arrived on shelves this week, offering everything from dark comedy to enchanting fantasy.

• Lost Lambs — Madeline Cash

A devastatingly funny takedown of the modern American family, Cash’s bravura debut focuses on the dysfunctional Flynns and the nefarious billionaire whose exploits might just bring them all back together again.

• The Elsewhere Express — Samantha Sotto Yambao

From the bestselling author of Water Moon comes a beguiling fantasy perfect for fans of DallerGut Dream Department Store, as an unfulfilled woman finds herself on the eponymous enchanted train with a desire to uncover her life’s true purpose.

• Half His Age — Jenette McCurdy

The mordantly funny and insightful debut novel from the author of the bestselling memoir I’m Glad My Mom Died, Half His Age follows the perplexed yearning of a passionate female student for her much older creative writing teacher.

Events at Waterstone’s Ballymena

• Children’s Storytime – Saturday 14 February, 12pm

Families are invited to join the booksellers every Saturday for a story and colouring activities.

This week’s reading will be The Great Big Hug Hunt from the world of Peter Rabbit. The event is suitable for toddlers up to age six.

• Romance Book Club – Friday 20 February, 7pm

This month’s discussion centres on Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid. The group offers a relaxed and welcoming space to chat about romance fiction. Please note this is an 18+ event.

‘Blind Date With a Book’ returns for Valentine’s Day

Waterstone’s Ballymena has also brought back its popular ‘Blind Date With a Book’ display, inviting customers to browse wrapped mystery titles in search of the perfect Valentine’s gift. The initiative has again been extended across Young Adult and Teenage titles.

With strong sales across fiction, romance and children’s books, Waterstone’s Ballymena continues to be a vibrant hub for readers of all ages.