Each week we bring you a sample of the books we’re reading, the films we’re watching, the television shows we’re hooked on or the music we’re loving.

Lian Hingee is reading The Secret Place by Tana French

I first discovered Tana French’s Dublin Murder Squad series after falling down a Gone Gir-shaped hole. I wanted to find another contemporary crime novel that was smart, didn’t revel in graphic depictions of violence against women, and had interesting, flawed, but ultimately sympathetic characters. There are five books in this series so far, and each novel follows a different detective through a different case.

The Secret Place is number five in the series. Stephen Moran sees his chance to escape Cold Cases for the high-profile world of the Murder Squad when a former witness presents him with a mysterious note. Discovered on a noticeboard at the prestigious girls’ school the witness attends, the note reads: ‘I know who killed him.’ Moran soon finds himself partnered with the abrasive Antoinette Conway – the lead detective who has previously investigated the murder of a popular teenage boy on the grounds of the very same school.

Over the course of a single day the two detectives attempt to unravel the truth from the secrets and lies, all the while navigating the complicated social dynamics of a girls’ school. The narrative switches from Moran and Conway’s investigation, to the story of four teenage girls whose all-consuming friendship is at the heart of the mystery.

Nina Kenwood is reading The Nest by Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney

I recently read an interview with author Cynthia D'Aprix Sweeney where she said she likes unlikeable characters. I do too, which is lucky, because her debut novel is full of them. The Nest follows the Plumb family through various trials and tribulations (mostly fighting about money), and they’re awful, but awful in a really compelling, enjoyable way. I’ve become a little fatigued of the dysfunctional-New-York-family novel, but all the hype around this one intrigued me, and after devouring it in a couple of days, I can confirm it is a cut above most of its peers. I was completely absorbed from start to finish. It’s a terrific read, and perfect for anyone looking to get lost in a book this long weekend.

Alan Vaarwerk is reading Patience by Daniel Clowes

I’m reading Daniel Clowes’ new graphic novel, which tells the story of a man who goes back in time to stop the murder of his pregnant wife. Clowes’ art style is vibrant and psychedelic, almost garish, which clashes with the grim, almost noir atmosphere – as well as the bloody-minded determinism of the protagonist, Jack, who will stop at nothing to change the course of history. It’s a mind-bending, multi-layered story full of secrets and paradoxes, and a striking and quite beautiful visual experience.

Chris Gordon is reading Our Tiny, Useless Hearts by Toni Jordan

I recently started reading Toni Jordan’s forthcoming novel (due in May). I’m already a fan of Jordan’s writing; she writes so well about neighbourhoods and personalities I recognise from my own life. Her latest novel, Our Tiny, Useless Hearts, follows a group of friends whose carefully crafted plans for their lives are beginning to unravel. (‘Ah,’ I say to myself, ‘They must be in their 40s.’) I’m halfway through and already I’ve laughed, I’ve nodded along, and I’ve felt little pangs of sadness. I’m looking forward to finishing it this weekend.