Harper Perennial

Consider yourself warned: The Great Lover is the best piece of literary fiction I've read this year.  Sure, it's only February, but it's still a pretty weighty compliment coming from me (I am notoriously picky).  The Great Lover is the fictional account of a few years in the life of English poet Rupert Brooke: a charismatic and complex historical figure with an equally complicated love life.  Interwoven with Brooke's narration are letters, quotes, and poetry, as well as the distinct voice of Nell Golightly, the housemaid who falls reluctantly–but viscerally–in love with Brooke.  For more information on the book, as well as my full review, click here.

-Kayleigh