If you know Goldsboro, then you’ll likely know about our popular book clubs: Crime Collective for crime and thriller fans, GSFF for Sci-Fi and fantasy enthusiasts and PREM1ER - a general fiction, mixed genre book club (and the original book subscription box!!).
But have you ever wondered what goes into selecting these books? What makes them subscription-worthy? Go behind the scenes with our Managing Director, David Headley, as he reveals how we decide which books earn their place in our special edition book clubs.
Being truly immersed in publishing
Firstly, let’s explore David’s background. A literary agent with over 20 years experience and co-owner of Goldsboro Books - which recently celebrated 25 years in business - David has an unrivalled understanding of the book world. He’s witnessed countless trends: the blockbusters that endure, the hidden gems that create full-blown obsessions, and the fleeting fads that fade away.
David’s insights are further amplified by the incredible bookish team around him, experts at spotting emerging talent, identifying authors gaining new popularity, and listening to what readers really want. From in store conversations and requests in the bookshops, to keeping tabs on what’s trending on social media, the book club team are well and truly on the pulse of publishing.
David’s role as a literary agent also gives him an insider’s perspective on upcoming releases, so we’re often among the first to discover extraordinary new books.
We GENUINELY love the stories
The number-one rule for our book club picks? We have to love them. Every single book we select has been absolutely devoured and adored by our team. We have to be obsessed.
We’re very fortunate to receive proof copies of upcoming releases, giving us an early glimpse of what’s to come. Our independent team, made up of booksellers and literary agents with varying tastes, has its own internal bookclub where we passionately discuss these books together, debating their merits and how they made us feel.
The ones that captivate us early on, and have us screaming about them in the group whatsapp chats - these are the ones floated as potential book club choices.
They have to offer a unique take
With so many books now being released, it can be difficult to stand out in such a crowded market. Many books are just retellings of the same stories with different characters, but with our book club picks, we really are looking for something unique. Something that surprises and moves you, offering fresh perspectives or deeply moving narratives.
Our book club selections aren’t just good reads; they’re unforgettable experiences.
Research matters
The aim of book clubs like PREM1ER, beyond bringing our members unforgettable stories, is to curate a collection of future collectibles. We put in the research so our members don’t have to, from keeping a close eye on emerging trends, to assessing the originality of each story, considering the author’s background etc. Every detail matters when it comes to ensuring that our selections aren’t just incredible reads, but that you get to own something truly limited, and truly collectible.
Exclusivity
When a book is chosen for one of our subscriptions, we work with the publishers to ensure it is a special, unique edition, exclusive to our book clubs. Not only because we want them to look truly amazing on our members' bookshelves, but because it’s part of what makes them collectable, adding additional value.
This leads to some spectacular works of literary art - from beautifully designed slipcases to impressive illustrated covers.
The author must be able to hand-sign every copy
It’s very rare that a book club choice is picked if the author is unable to hand-sign our Goldsboro copies, only in very exceptional cases where we know it won’t impact the value of the book.
Why? Connection. There’s something magical about holding a book signed by the person who created it, especially when it’s a story you’ve fallen in love with. Most of our authors visit our London or Brighton bookshops to sign copies, giving us the chance to create exclusive content for our subscribers and share behind-the-scenes moments. Of course, a hand-signed special edition book also increases its rarity and value, boosting its collectible potential too.
Personalised numbering
As an extra bonus, our book club members also have the option to receive the same numbered edition for every book they purchase - adding even more collectible value, especially for those building a set. (Fun Goldsboro fact: the author always gets copy #1, while David claims the very last numbered edition produced!)
The Goldsboro Standard
Goldsboro has built a strong reputation for choosing books that not only achieve critical acclaim but also significant collectible value. From modern classics to breakout bestsellers here’s just a few examples of some of our book club titles that have gone on to achieve huge success:
- Labirnyth by Kate Mosse
- Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón
- Half of The Yellow Sun by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
- Daisy Jones And The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- In Memoriam by Alice Winn
- The list of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey
From David’s expertise to the passion of our team, every step of our selection process is designed to ensure that our book clubs deliver not just books, but treasures. We’re committed to bringing you stories you’ll adore, editions you’ll cherish, and books that will stand the test of time.
Whether you’re a member of Crime Collective, GSFF, or PREM1ER, you can trust that every Goldsboro book club pick is chosen with care, passion, and a deep love of stories. Happy reading!
