Shocking, biting, funny and addictively readable, Fruit Fly is the queer, fictional critique of A Little Life I’ve always been waiting for; my favourite read of 2026 so far!

Thank you to the publishers for this early review copy. This was on the BBC list I believe of what to read in 2026. I was quite interested to see what Josh would write for an adult debut having loved his three teen / YA books. Now I think this will be quite hard to write a review for without spoilers - but no spoilers will be found here from me. Early on in the book I was a bit 'oh is this for me'? But that feeling was very short lived and I became absolutely hooked into the plot. I was so invested in the lives of Leo and Mal I felt I just needed to protect them and guide them. Ronan however, he wasn't getting any love from me, he needed to be shown for what he was. But he was so clever this wasn't going to be easy and would certainly require some team work to see what he was really up to. I had so many ways in my head that this book could end, but Josh managed to select an ending I had not seen coming. The question is now of course is he planning a follow up? If he is then I will be needing a copy please. Very happy to recommend to all fiction or crime readers! These characters will stay with me for quite a while.

Punchy and propulsive, told with real grit and authenticity. I couldn’t put this book down, it reads like a thriller and tackles some really interesting themes while handling its characters with such care.I am sure I’ll not read a better book this year.

Fruit Fly by Josh Silver follows Mallory, a once successful writer battling creative block, who becomes entangled with Leo, a vulnerable young man whose life may hold the key to her next book. This is a bold and thought provoking book that explores ambition, ethics and the blurred line between storytelling and exploitation. From the beginning, there is a strong sense of tension as Mallory’s intentions begin to take shape. I found the characters particularly compelling. Both Mallory and Leo are complex and layered, with a dynamic that feels uncomfortable at times but intentionally so. Their relationship drives the story forward and raises difficult questions about power and authenticity. The tone balances heavier themes with moments of sharp humour, which keeps the narrative engaging without losing its emotional weight. There is a constant sense of unease that builds as the story progresses. The pacing works well, steadily revealing more about both characters while maintaining intrigue. I also thought the ending was handled brilliantly, bringing everything together in a way that felt both fitting and impactful. A dark and engaging book that challenges its reader while delivering a compelling story. Read more at The Secret Book Review.