If there is something good about the pandemic, it is that many people, tired of confinements and shortened work hours, tired of looking at so many screens, have found refuge and entertainment,

joy and solace - in the pages of a book. According to data from the Publishers Guild, the confinement increased the number of frequent readers, those who read at least weekly, to 57%. Weekly reading time increased from 90 minutes to an average of 8 hours and 20 minutes.

And like the runners who started running after the pandemic, those new - and healthy - habits, it seems they are here to stay. The writers also had to stay at home and that has been reflected in much more material to the delight of their fans. A new year begins with a vaccine against the virus, which makes us see the light at the end of the tunnel, and with very good editorial news to keep us company on this journey towards authentic normalcy.

1. Gambito de dama by Walter Tevis (Alfaguara)
2. El instinto by Ashley Audrein (Alfaguara)
3. Ruta de escape by Philippe Sands (Anagrama)
4. Revancha by Kiko Amat (Anagrama Narrativas Hispánicas)
5. Gordo de feria by Esther García Llovet (Anagrama)

Continue reading here: Esquire