Goldsboro's Summer Bestseller List: London vs Brighton

We’re delighted to reveal our summer bestseller lists from our independent bookshops in Brighton and London. This summer has been another incredible season for the book community, highlighting a strong passion for fantasy, dark narratives, and thought-provoking themes. Keep reading to discover just how different our bestseller lists vary from city to city! 

Goldsboro Books: Top 10 Summer Bestsellers

Here are the top ten most purchased books from June and August 2024 across each of our independent book shops.

It’s fascinating to see how the reading preferences of Brighton and London differ. Here’s a glimpse into ten standout choices from each city.

The Betrayal of Thomas True: PREM1ER Edition by A. J. West  -  #1 bestseller at Goldsboro Books London

A Goldsboro PREM1ER choice, and a Sunday Times bestseller.

Set in the hidden streets of Georgian London and the secretive world of molly houses, The Betrayal of Thomas True follows carpenter Gabriel Griffin, who leads a double life as Lotty, a guard for the molly houses. When a young man is murdered, Gabriel must uncover a traitor leaking their secrets to dangerous Justices. At the same time, Thomas True, burdened by a dangerous secret, is drawn into this underworld. As the threat of exposure looms, Gabriel must protect Thomas and confront their forbidden love in this gripping historical thriller.

Buy a signed copy now.

The House of Hidden Meanings: A Memoir by RuPaul - #1 bestseller at Goldsboro Books Brighton

International drag superstar RuPaul offers a deeply personal memoir, exploring his journey from growing up Black, poor, and queer in a broken home and his rise to global fame. With brutal honesty and tenderness, RuPaul reflects on his life, relationships, and identity, sharing insights on the power of performance, self-acceptance, and chosen family. From his early years in San Diego to his rise in the drag scenes of Atlanta and New York, RuPaul's story is a testament to embracing what makes you different and fearlessly facing yourself.

Buy a signed copy here.

The Fellowship of the Puzzlemakers: PREM1ER Edition by Samuel Burr- #2 bestseller in Goldsboro Books London and #6 in Goldsboro Books Brighton

This sold-out novel explores the story of Clayton Stumper, a quirky 25-year-old raised by the Fellowship of Puzzlemakers, who receives a final puzzle from the late crossword compiler Pippa Allsbrook, promising to reveal the mystery of his parentage. As he unravels the clues, Clayton discovers a secret that even the sharpest minds of the Fellowship couldn't solve—a revelation that will change everything.

A Goldsboro PREM1ER choice that our subscribers adored (and who can blame them, look at that beautiful cover!)

Sold out

The List of Suspicious Things: PREM1ER Edition by Jennie Godfrey  - #2 bestseller at Goldsboro Brighton 

Yorkshire, 1979: Miv fears her family is moving South due to local murders, and she’s desperate to stay with her best friend Sharon. When her mum stops talking, Miv decides solving the mystery of the disappearing women might save them from leaving. Together, she and Sharon make a list of suspicious people in their neighbourhood, but their search uncovers secrets far closer to home than they expected.

Buy a signed, special edition copy now. 

A Woman of Opinion by Sean Lusk - #3 bestseller at Goldsboro Books London

Lady Mary Wortley Montagu defies the expectations of 18th-century England, seeking adventure, freedom, and love. A celebrated poet and outspoken advocate for women's rights, Mary travels to Constantinople, where she discovers the autonomous life she craves. After observing Turkish women vaccinating against smallpox, she brings the practice to England. However, her rebellious nature and desire for love make her enemies, and even her daughter works to suppress her legacy. This novel gives voice to the remarkable, forgotten life of a pioneering feminist and poet.

Buy a signed copy now.

Murder on Lake Garda by Tom Hindle - #3 bestseller at Goldsboro Books Brighton

On the exclusive island of Castello Fiore, nestled in the sparkling waters of Lake Garda, the wealthy Heywood family gathers for the wedding of their son Laurence to Italian influencer Eva Bianchi. However, the joyous occasion takes a dark turn when a blood-curdling scream interrupts the ceremony. As the guests are confined while awaiting the police, long-buried secrets and simmering family tensions surface. With a killer on the loose, everyone is left wondering: who is responsible, and will they strike again before being caught?

You can still get signed copies here.

The Cautious Traveller's Guide to the Wastelands: PREM1ER Edition by Sarah Brooks  #4 bestseller at Goldsboro Books London

Set aboard the legendary Trans-Siberian Express, this captivating novel takes readers on a perilous journey across the mysterious Wastelands between Beijing and Moscow. In the late 19th century, a grieving woman with a false identity, a famous child born on the train, and a disgraced naturalist embark on a treacherous ride to the Great Exhibition. But as they cross the shadowy wilderness, strange events unfold, and whispers grow that the train may no longer be safe. Secrets unravel, and the passengers must face an unknown danger to survive. Perfect for fans of Piranesi and Babel.

Secure a copy here.

Five Broken Blades:GSFF Edition by Mai Corland - #4 bestseller at Goldsboro Books Brighton

Five killers. One king. Only one will survive. Six of Crows meets Kill Bill in this treacherous tale of vengeance and seduction, inspired by Korean myth.

The God King Joon must die.

Summoned for a single purpose, five of the deadliest liars in the land unite to kill the immortal ruler who favors the nobles while the innocent suffer. Each assassin has their own motive—redemption, freedom, or revenge. But while they agree on murder and betrayal, only one can claim the crown. In this deadly game, trust is a luxury, and the best liar will win.

Sold out

The Night Ends With Fire by K. X. Song - #5 bestseller at Goldsboro Books London

In this gripping fantasy inspired by Mulan and Romance of the Three Kingdoms, Meilin's father, addicted to opium and refusing the imperial draft, plans to sell her for her dowry. When she learns her betrothed is violent, she disguises herself as a boy and enlists in his place. As Meilin rises through the ranks and forms a bond with the prince Sky, she faces a kingdom on the brink of destruction. Torn between Sky, a sea dragon spirit offering powerful magic, and a challenging enemy prince, Meilin must navigate loyalty, love, and her own identity.

Buy a signed copy here.