This novel is being pitched as perfect for fans of Station Eleven and The Last of Us!

A searing YA debut follows two teen girls fighting for survival in an abandoned bookstore just weeks before another storm threatens to end the world.

Seventeen-year-old Liz Flannery has been living in an abandoned bookstore, trading books for supplies with survivors, ever since a devastating Storm hit.

When another catastrophic event looms, a newcomer, Maeve, breaks in seeking shelter. Despite her initial feelings, Liz realizes Maeve has the skills to help repair the store.

As the girls grow closer, they face not only the impending storm, but feelings for each other.

Release Date- 7 January 2025

Is it too early to discuss books that I can't wait to read for next year?

This time-slip novel promises readers a whimsical story about a trans man in New York that sounds like a moving premise for book club discussions.

Almost 30, laid off, and broke, Darby reluctantly moves back to his small town.

There, he walks into the bookstore he worked at in high school, and unexpectedly slips through time to come face-to-face with his pre-transition, teenage self.

Release Date- 14 January 2025

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Rachel and James are inseparable friends.

So, when Rachel falls in love with her married professor, Dr. Byrne, James helps her devise a plan to seduce him the only way they know how—by leveraging their roles at their local bookshop.

In an elaborate scheme, they convince the shop owner to host a book signing for his rather uninspiring academic work, and Rachel can't wait for the night to end when she can finally act on her feelings for the professor.

But, when she wanders into the back of the shop, she discovers who has caught his eye in the bookstore that night.

Told through Rachel's new adult lens, this coming-of-age story was one of my favorite books of this last year.

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"It has been said that books find their own readers—but sometimes they need someone to show them the way."

In this heartwarming translated work, Carl's life centers around delivering books to his cherished customers.

But when he loses his job, a spirited nine-year-old girl and the transformative power of books inspire them all to find new courage.

This novel has been a huge hit with book lovers all over the world. If you are a fan of A Man Called Ove, this will be a perfect cozy escape.

This compelling debut has been a hit with so many of our readers.

The story follows Sara Lancaster, who returns home after eight years to care for her ill father and their family's used bookstore, but she discovers more than she bargained for.

Eight years earlier, her daughter, Alana, came into this world following a terrifying sexual assault that left deep emotional wounds.

Now, the twin brother of the man who assaulted her has returned to Savannah to piece together the fragments of his once-great family.

When their two worlds collide, they find they are drawn together unexpectedly.

Gabrielle Zevin became a massive commercial success with her novel Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow, but this debut novel made me a fan years ago!

A.J. Fikry, mourning his wife and watching his seaside bookstore decline, isolates himself from his community and loses joy in books.

Everything changes when a mysterious package arrives, transforming his life and rekindling his love for the written word.

I could not put this down and did not want these beautiful characters' stories to end. It is a must-read for book lovers as it references many incredible books.

Struggling to find purpose in bustling London, Nina Redmond impulsively moves to the Scottish Highlands to start a mobile bookshop.

Surrounded by stunning landscapes and quirky locals, she discovers the magic of connecting readers with the perfect books while navigating a new romance that could change her life.

Violet Powell has been newly released from prison after serving time for a fatal drunk-driving crash.

She's not the only one encountering significant changes. Harriet navigates an empty nest, and Frank faces marital troubles.

But as these three cross paths, their encounters spark a new journey through the healing power of books.

This latest novel offers transformative second chances from the beloved author of One-In-A-Million-Boy.

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Nina meticulously plans her day, from bookstore shifts to carefully measured reading hours.

But when she stumbles upon the bombshell revelation of multiple siblings stemming from her estranged father's affairs, her perfectly orchestrated existence spirals into delightful chaos.

Get ready for big revelations and new feelings for her archrival trivia night opponent!

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Cassie Andrews works in a New York City bookshop, shelving books, making coffee for customers, and living an unassuming, ordinary life.

Until the day one of her favorite customers—a lonely yet charming old man—dies right in front of her.

She always loved his stories, and now she has nothing to remember him by.

Nothing but the last book he was reading.  

But this is no ordinary book…Intrigued by its mysterious packaging, she soon discovers that each door within its pages leads her to a new world.

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When we borrowed this book from the library, it was ILLUMINATING. The book cover glows in the dark!

Designed by Rodrigo Corral, this novel was chosen by BookPage as one of the 25 best book covers for 2012.

Clay Jannon, an unemployed web designer, stumbles upon Mr. Penumbra's peculiar bookstore that operates 24/7.

Exploring its mysterious shelves and odd clientele, he uncovers a centuries-old secret society.

If you fall in love with this world, check out the other book in Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore series- Ajax Penumbra 1969. It's a 65-page prequel to expand this story.

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I fell in love with Legends and Lattes and have been saving this prequel for a day when I need something magical to escape my real life.

In this cozy fantasy, Viv's mercenary life is put on hold after a mission gone awry, leaving her to recuperate in the quiet town of Murk.

Unexpectedly finding refuge in a bookshop with its irreverent owner, this low-stakes fantasy delivers sweet adventures with characters that I can't wait to revisit.

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Emily Allen, a librarian on Martha's Vineyard, is offered a job by her favorite author, Siobhan Riordan, to help her write the final book in her acclaimed series.

But she has to deal with Siobhan's son who manages a local bookstore and doesn't want Emily around.

When Siobhan's health takes a bad turn, Emily becomes their peacemaker.

Torn between helping Siobhan and her feelings for Kieran, Emily has to decide what happens in her next chapter.

For fans of The Seven Days in June, this story comes full circle when these characters make their way to a bookshop at a book signing for the two authors featured in that novel.

Ricki Wilde is the heir to the Wilde Funeral Dynasty but unexpectedly decides to go after her scrappy dream of opening a flower shop in Harlem.

But on an evening walk, she encounters a mysterious man in an unseasonably blooming garden, and her quiet life is changed in unusual ways as they navigate an instant connection.

I recommend this novel on audiobook, but readers should be aware there are a couple of spicy scenes in this one if you prefer a closed-door romance.

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One year ago, Ellie Oliver lost her dream job in animation after a Christmas Eve romance turned sour.

Finding work at a local coffee shop, she's just getting through the days—until Andrew, the shop's landlord, proposes a shocking, drunken plan: a marriage of convenience that will give him his recent inheritance and alleviate her financial woes.

But, their holiday plans take a surprising turn when Ellie discovers that Andrew's sister's new fiancée is the very woman she fell for last Christmas after their magical meet-cute moment in a bookstore.

Nightingale Books is a cherished sanctuary in the heart of a quaint English town. Its shelves are curated with care by Julius, the beloved owner.

But when he passes away, his daughter Emilia must navigate the daunting task of preserving his legacy and keeping the bookshop afloat amidst financial struggles and looming developers.

As you might suspect from the title, love blossoms in the aisles in this sweet bookstore romance. So many of my bookish friends have ADORED this love story.

Emily Henry crafts a bookish romance where Nora and Charlie have an unexpected meet-cute moment in a bookshop.

Nora is a driven literary agent whose sister persuades her to spend the summer in a charming small town.

But, she didn't expect to run into her curmudgeonly editor, whom she'd been avoiding since their last awkward encounter.

As one might expect, these two catch feelings for each other, and Henry nails the chemistry on this sweet romance story.

The Emily Henry audiobooks, narrated by Julia Whelan, are always the best format- she adds something incredible to each novel.

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In this surprisingly charming and darkly funny thriller, an obsessive bookstore manager crosses paths with an aspiring writer at his New York bookshop.

Their encounter sparks an intense, twisted romance, but Joe's fixation quickly becomes obsessive.

He uses his access to Beck's personal information to begin meticulously orchestrating events that become an indispensable part of her life, and thrilling shenanigans ensue.

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In Natalie Jenner's evocative novel set in 1950s London, three women—Vivien, Grace, and Evie—forge new paths against the backdrop of Bloomsbury Books.

The author disclosed that the novel channels the charm of 84 Charing Cross Road with its plot, including bookish romantics, ambitious professionals, and literary icons—all navigating societal change in this fun bookshop setting.

Readers may be surprised to discover that Evie is a character from the author's first novel, The Jane Austen Society.

"All children mythologize their birth… Ask him to tell you about when he was born. What you get won't be the truth; it will be a story. And nothing is more telling than a story."

So begins Diane Setterfield's beautiful debut novel, which seamlessly interweaves two stories with some of the most beautiful writing I have read.

Margaret Lea has led a quiet little life, working in her father's bookshop and being proud of a few small autobiography write-ups that she has done.

But when a surprising letter comes from the world-famous and reclusive author Vida Winter, Margaret is shocked to discover that she has requested her presence at her home to write the untold story of her life.

The story is unlike anything ever told, and Margaret becomes enchanted with Vida's life and how, in many ways, it has reflected her own life story and who she is.

To say more will rob you of the reveals, but I can tell you that it nails the suspense with each shocking and creepy turn.

In Louise Erdrich's haunting and profound novel, a small independent bookstore becomes the unexpected stage for a year-long mystery and reckoning.

Tookie is an Ojibwe bookseller who found refuge in books after incarceration.

Unfortunately, her bookshop is haunted by Flora, the store's most irritating customer. She refuses to leave even after her death on All Souls' Day!

But, as she reckons with this ghostly presence, she also confronts the profound events that unfolded during 2020, including George Floyd's death, the political unrest, and the pandemic.

Daniel Sempere discovers a mysterious book in the Cemetery of Forgotten Books—a labyrinthine tale that holds surprising secrets from the past.

As he grows, he unravels a web of intrigue that binds his fate with the author and the dark forces seeking to destroy every trace of his work.

This book is the first novel in the Cemetery of Forgotten Books series.

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I adored this heartfelt young adult story.

When Rachel returns to town, she's haunted by the unanswered love letter she left for Henry before her departure.

Now working at Henry's family-owned bookshop, the two reignite their old connection.

Among the pages of beloved books, Crowley crafts a mesmerizing tale celebrating the power of second chances that's perfect for book clubs. My book club loved this sweet YA romance story!

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In this moving story, eighteen-year-old Amelia is healing after her best friend and book buddy, Jenna, devastatingly leaves this world.

Plans went awry before her death when their favorite author backed out of an appearance at a book festival.

So, when Jenna meets the author and Amelia does not, an inevitable rift occurs shortly before the tragedy.

But, as Amelia mourns this loss, a mysterious edition of the Chronicles arrives, seemingly sent by Jenna from beyond.

Pursuing its origins to a charming Michigan bookstore, Amelia discovers more than she anticipated- the elusive author N. E. Endsley and perhaps the closure and understanding she seeks about Jenna's final wishes!

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I've laughed so much at the unlikely reunion of childhood sweethearts in their eighties who discover they live in the same retirement community.

Irving was a delivery boy at Augusta's family-owned pharmacy whose promising relationship abruptly ended, leaving her heartbroken.

Now discovering her old flame is a beloved fixture in this retirement community bewilders Augusta.

But what floors her more is that the boy she thought could barely read is enthusiastically leading the community's book club. This is just the start of the layers this novel unpacks about their lives as teenagers that neither ever knew.

With a light hand, Loigman sprinkles magical realism elements that readers not typically accustomed to this type of literature will still find satisfying.

Release Date- 8 October 2024

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Eileen, an English professor and romance novel enthusiast, sets off for her book club's annual retreat in the Catskills, only to get lost in a rainstorm and end up in Eloraton—the charming setting of her favorite romance series.

Stranded in this familiar small town, Eileen discovers the characters are stuck because the author died before finishing the series.

But, her presence begins to create ripples that move the story forward.

As she finds unexpected joy and friendship in this fictional world, she faces the temptation to stay in this beloved place.

Release Date- 25 June 2024

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When Gia's sister asks her to return to their hometown to help with their sick mother, she knows she has no choice but to go.

Despite their complicated relationship, it's her turn to help, as Margot has been caring for their mother alone.

Her homecoming faces resistance, especially after she founded the Banned Books Club in response to the PTA's excessive cuts to the high school reading list.

But complicating things further is her former favorite teacher, who was fired after Gia accused him of misconduct.

Now the town, including members of her book club, takes sides.

Release Date- 17 September 2024

Bea Rose and Grace Le Motte are best friends on the Isle of Jersey in the early 1940s, navigating the harsh realities of German occupation.

But, the women stage their own protest to these existences in savvy ways. Bea, a postwoman, intercepts dangerous letters to protect her neighbors, while Grace, the local librarian, hides banned books to preserve their heritage through her Wartime Book Club endeavors.

This highly-rated historical fiction novel offers book clubs a chance to explore the courageous efforts of wartime book clubs and highlights the power of friendship.

FUN FACT: The author, Kate Thompson, works as a journalist, author and library campaigner. Her novels The Little Wartime Library and The Wartime Book Club utilizes her rich background highlighting libraries in wartime settings.

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This cozy novel does a lot of POV switching, which might be easier to navigate through a print copy.

Karissa Newcomb is starting fresh in Gig Harbor after her husband's affair with her best friend.

With her nine-year-old daughter in tow, she embraces her new job at a small publishing company despite her boss being a curmudgeon.

But luckily, she finds friendship in her new neighborhood, with Alice grieving her husband and Margot struggling after a divorce and job loss.

Along with Alice's grumpy sister, Josie, a book club is born to help each other find joy in their new beginnings.

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Within the walls of a Portland bookstore, Violet struggles with guilt after serving time for a fatal drunk driving accident.

But she's not the only one navigating challenges—Harriet faces a new stage with an empty nest, and Frank has marriage problems.

As these three cross paths through the bookshop's book club, their encounters spark a new journey through the healing power of literature in this latest novel from the beloved author of One-In-A-Million-Boy.

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Sloane Parker, a librarian in a small town, enjoys bantering with her grumpy patron, Arthur McLachlan.

When Arthur stops showing up, she finds him bedridden and creates a book club to bring cheer into his gloomy life.

Slowly, the lonely misfits of their town come together, finding joy in unlikely friendships and the pages of special books.

One of the first books that got me back into reading was this "chick-lit" novel I devoured when my kids were little. As I raised my children in a warm circle of women, I loved funny ensemble books like this.

Readers are pulled into the heartwarming and hilarious world of the Freesia Court Book Club, where five women bond over books, bonbons, and the ups and downs of life.

From the 1960s through the 1990s, we are involved in their love, loss, and everything in between.

If this is your first time reading Lorna Landvik's books, you have many fun books to discover.

In researching this list, I immediately moved this backlist book to the top of my stack, especially after reading so many readers raving over the uproariously funny audiobook narration.

As the title implies, this has steamy storytelling aspects to it, but readers appreciated the feminist-forward plot in this novel.

In the heart of London's Punjabi community, Nikki, a modern and independent woman, takes on an unexpected teaching gig at the local Sikh temple.

What she expects to be a simple creative writing class for widows turns into something much more vibrant and rebellious when her students begin sharing their own erotic stories.

While not a perfect fit with the "books about book clubs" theme, the shared stories around their writing feel like a great addition to the adjacent book club stories.

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I recommend this endearing novel in a print copy so you can experience Nina's ever-evolving planner as her meticulously planned days go haywire.

In carefully plotted increments, Nina navigates her bookstore job, book clubs, trivia team, and cherished reading time.

But when she discovers she has multiple siblings from her estranged father's different marriages, her carefully structured life is thrown into chaos.

Amidst the overwhelming surprises, Nina is drawn to her trivia nemesis, who may be the guy of her dreams. Waxman masterfully crafts a beautiful midlife love story of self-discovery and evolution that readers will adore.

Ava North reluctantly joins her friend's book club after her husband leaves her, not to confront old family traumas but to escape her loneliness.

As she navigates the club's theme, "The Book That Matters Most," she and her estranged daughter, Maggie, find unexpected comfort and clues in literature.

Famous and obscure books form the backbone of her novel, but their universal messages allow these characters to shine.

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In their powerful group memoir, four friends—black and white, gay and straight, immigrant and American-born—use Toni Morrison's novels to catalyze candid book club discussions.

From Soul Train to Black Lives Matter, they confront uncomfortable truths about race, gender, and identity while exploring Morrison's profound impact on their lives.

This slim yet profound confessional reimagines book clubs as spaces for self-discovery and communal healing, urging readers to embrace Morrison's literature as a tool. I can't wait to screen this for my book club.

In full transparency, I've discovered that I'm not the target audience for Grady Hendrix books, but this horror novel has been a hit with many of our readers.

In the charming town of Charleston, a group of southern housewives gathers for a seemingly ordinary book club.

But when Patricia Campbell, one of their members, begins to suspect their new neighbor is a bloodthirsty vampire, the book club transforms into a fierce band of vampire hunters.

Readers should be aware that Grady Hendrix novels contains graphic violence and gore scenes, which some might find disturbing. The depiction of vampire attacks and their aftermath can be pretty intense for many readers.

Epistolary novels are tricky for me as a reader. I haven't enjoyed books like these in the past, but within a few short pages, I felt attached to this story.

This novel is set in both London and Guernsey Island. It is presented as a series of letters from Juliet, a budding author in search of a new story, to the people of Guernsey Island.

Throughout the letters, Juliet learns about the book club, which was formed as a whimsical means of survival to stay out past curfew during the German occupation.

Juliet is a hysterically funny and witty character who comes to know The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Society when one of the members happens upon a book of hers and inquires if she has any more books to share with his book group.

After much correspondence, she decides to visit Guernsey Island, and adventures ensue. While the book is cozily predictable in parts, I found this story incredibly endearing.

In 1954, Alice Campbell turned a run-down building into The Cambridge Bookshop, where college women Tess, Caroline, Evie, and Merritt found solace in Alice's reading club.

But, as they each navigate their independence as college women, their world is shattered when one of them faces a crisis that will test all they know to be true about themselves.

Don't let this cover fool you. This novel tackles significant issues like alcoholism, wealth disparity, women's rights, and sexual assault.

Fun Fact: The author, Julia Bryan Thomas, is a Yale Writers' Workshop graduate married to mystery novelist Will Thomas!

The Air Raid Book Club is the author's first venture into historical fiction. You may be familiar with her writing through her memorable novel, The Brilliant Life of Eudora Honeysett.

This story originated from developing Eudora's character. The author's enjoyment of writing her flashback scenes led her to explore the genre.

In this historical fiction novel, losing Gertie's husband complicates running her bookstore.

When she takes in a Jewish refugee named Hedy, they decide to start an air raid book club to uplift spirits during the war.

Despite unimaginable losses, the book club finds strength in their stories and bonds to see them through to brighter days.

Maggie steps out of her comfort zone to fulfill a pact with her son to get out more and make friends. Her first big outing is to join a local book club, only to find it's more about gossip than reading.

Seeking a connection she can brag about to her college-aged son, she uncovers a local online gaming guild through the book club nonsense, led by another local.

As the banter grows between the guild leader and Maggie, she finds Aiden might be chipping away at her grumpy exterior in this cozy romance story.

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I'm a notorious series quitter, but I've adored each of these novels from the Bromance Book Club Series.

This story offers an unconventional secret romance book club where men dive into romance novels to master the art of love.

With laugh-out-loud moments and endearing characters, this first installment is a joyful read from start to finish.

This series benefits from being read in order as each book focuses on a different member of these adorable book club bros.

This lively mix of Buffy the Vampire Slayer meets Murder, She Wrote sounds like a rollicking adventure for readers.

Librarian Sherry Pinkwhistle keeps discovering bodies in her village.

When her cat, Lord Thomas Crowell, appears possessed by an ancient demon, she teams up with the town's new priest and the "Demon-Hunting Society" to solve a murder and banish the demon.

Release Date- 24 September 2024

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Henry Kimball and Lily Kintner are back to their sleuthing in Peter Swanson's third novel, offering readers another thriller with his signature twists.

Martha works as a librarian in Maine and has been quite happy with her solitude for many years.

But, when she meets a charismatic salesman, she is swept away by his charm, leading to a whirlwind marriage proposal.

Now, Martha begins to suspect that Alan may not be who he says he is, especially when she discovers that many unsolved murders coincide with his work trips.

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Emma Taylor struggles to find work due to legal restrictions for widows with children. She persuades the manager at Boots' Booklover's Library to hire her.

But, when the threat of war becomes a reality, Olivia must be evacuated to the countryside. Here, Emma finds comfort in forming unlikely friendships in her daughter's absence and making recommendations to the library's quirky regulars.

However, the job presents unusual challenges as books mysteriously begin to disappear.

If you love this novel, check out The Librarian Spy, The Last Bookshop in London, and The Keeper of Hidden Books—three other stories from the author celebrating our love of books over the decades.

Release Date- 10 September 2024

In 1964, history professor Cecily Bridge-Davis is on a quest to find the land she inherited.

She uncovers a dark secret: in every generation, one Bridge family member disappears and is mysteriously transported back in time.

Armed with only a family Bible and a map marked with the locations of mysterious containers, Cecily heads to the library, hoping to uncover the truth behind this curse.

But, it's a race against time to find the answers that will free her family forever in Madison's enthralling historical fiction debut.

Release Date- 3 September 2024

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This family drama has a lot of spice for readers.

A widowed librarian secures her perfect dating match on an app designed for readers and accepts his whirlwind marriage proposal while still navigating her newfound grief.

While the family drama is front and center, this novel's bookish themes are rich thanks to Sylvie and Simon's deep affection for literature, which embeds surprising book cameos like a children's book called The Bed Book—a classic by Sylvia Plath that I was unaware existed until this novel!

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Gabriella Gamez, a Mexican-American author, has launched a new book series called "Librarians in Love," which sounds perfect for this prompt.

Librarian Marcela Ortiz has pined for her best friend for years, but she knows it's time to move on when he gets engaged.

Enter Theo Young, ex-NFL player and older brother of the groom, When a family brunch misunderstanding leads to everyone thinking the two hooked up, they decide to play along.

As their faux relationship heats up, Marcela and Theo navigate tangled emotions, family drama, and buried secrets, discovering that their rebound might be the real deal.

Release Date- 9 July 2024

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Recently grieving a loss, Erin Connolly mistakenly donates her beloved annotated copy of To Kill a Mockingbird to a local library.

However, Erin begins a transformative literary journey when it reappears with newly annotated notes and an invitation from a mysterious pen pal.

As they exchange their stories through the margins of timeless novels, Erin uncovers surprising connections and faces brutal truths that have the potential to change her future indefinitely.

Release Date- 3 September 2024

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Children's librarian Daphne's life takes an unwelcome turn when her fiancé Peter dumps her for his best friend, leaving her stranded in his hometown.

Forced to share an apartment with Miles, who also has a bruised heart from Peter's betrayal, Daphne crafts a fake dating scheme to ruffle some feathers.

As a reader, I'll admit that I was less captivated by the romance and more by the cozy Midwestern library scenes in this one, and Daphne's magical story hours with these children made me feel like a kid again.

The Emily Henry audiobooks, narrated by Julia Whelan, are always the best format- she adds something incredible to each novel.

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I loved Jennifer Ryan's writing in the charming novel The Kitchen Front. This novel offers readers three POVS on an underground library story.

New deputy librarian Juliet Lansdown is determined to revitalize the neglected Bethnal Green Library but faces resistance from the men in charge and the shadows of her past.

Young Katie Upwood, grieving her beau and grappling with a life-changing secret, and Sofie Baumann, a Jewish refugee escaping a cruel employer, find solace and friendship within the library's walls.

But, when bombs destroy the library, Juliet moves the collection to an Underground station to keep the community's spirit alive. Among these tragedies, these women face continued challenges in saving their beloved library.

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Lorraine, a bright and ambitious seventeen-year-old in the early 1960s, sees her dreams of becoming a valedictorian and astronaut shattered when a single encounter with her boyfriend, Clint, leaves her pregnant and abandoned.

When she is sent away to a maternity home to have her child, she discovers an unexpected ally through the nearby local library, which becomes her secret haven.

I'll never get over the honor of being acknowledged in someone's book. Meagan made my dreams come true!

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Emily Allen, a librarian on Martha's Vineyard, receives a dream opportunity from her favorite author, Siobhan Riordan: to assist in writing the final book of her beloved series.

However, Siobhan's son, Kieran Murphy, who runs a local bookstore, opposes her involvement.

As tensions rise and Siobhan's health deteriorates, Emily finds herself mediating between mother and son.

Sayuri Komachi is Tokyo's enigmatic librarian who possesses a unique gift: she can read the souls of her library guests.

Beyond recommending books, Komachi understands precisely what each visitor seeks in life and offers them a transformative book they never knew they needed.

From a restless sales attendant to a struggling working mother, every visitor arrives at Komachi's library with their dreams and challenges.

Through heartfelt conversations and unexpected book recommendations, Komachi guides them toward life-altering revelations that readers have found unbelievably heartwarming.

This sounds like the perfect book for readers seeking cozy fantasy books like A Psalm for the Wild-Built.

This historical fiction novel was an enormous hit with our book club.

Eva, a librarian, is shelving books when she locks eyes with a story and photograph of a book she hasn't seen in over sixty years.

This book contains the names and secrets of her time spent helping children to safety by fabricating documents to allow them to escape the concentration camps.

Now, she must travel to claim the book and explain its story. However, there may be more hidden in the book than she initially realizes.

For many years, Eva has been waiting for a correspondence that could provide closure and peace to her own love story.

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This historical fiction novel showcases the bravery and resilience of the American Library in Paris during WWII.

Based on a true story, young librarian Odile fights to keep the library open amidst the war's dangers.

Decades later, her bond with teenage Lily in 1980s Montana offers readers moving glimpses into this enduring relationship and the power of found family.

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Readers craving stories of intergenerational friendships for their book clubs shouldn't miss this sincerely sweet story.

A special reading list tucked into books in a local library features modern and classic gems, sparking community connections.

Widower Mukesh remembers his wife's love for reading and visits the library, forming a heartwarming friendship with a young librarian who uses this list to guide her recommendations.

This book beautifully captures the communal nature of books. Our book club adored this one!

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Milena McKay's Lambda Literary Award-winning romance has been one of my favorite backlist books of the year.

In this sapphic romance, Sam, a closeted teacher at a traditional New England academy, and her imposing new headmistress, Magdalene, had a secret tryst months ago.

Their reunion sparks a slow-burning love affair amidst the academic corridors and hidden nooks of Three Dragons Academy.

Abby Craden's captivating audiobook narration performance offers readers a surprisingly well-developed mystery intertwined with this academy's history.

Thanks to its dark academia setting, I can happily recommend it for this list. If you adore this, I hope you'll support this under-the-radar gem, which is available in the Kindle Unlimited library. I think it needs more readers!

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This nonfiction book I chose for our book club was drier than I expected, but the audiobook helped move along the slower elements of this story.

The book is Orlean's account of the 1986 Los Angeles Public Library fire, in which an inferno reached 2000 degrees, burned for seven hours, and destroyed over 400,000 books.

The novel shines in the library details, including fun trivia and highlighting libraries' essential role in our lives.

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When shy library assistant June Jones learns that her beloved Chalcot Library is facing closure, she steps out of her comfort zone to join an eccentric group of patrons in a fight to save it.

Through the campaign, June discovers newfound confidence, forms unexpected friendships, and discovers a beautiful journey to find happiness beyond her routines.

After Amy Byler's husband unexpectedly leaves, she spends three years raising her kids alone.

So, when he returns to take the kids for the summer, she seizes the chance to escape her suburban life for New York City.

There, she attends a librarian conference and reconnects with an impossibly stylish friend who works for a magazine and sees Amy's adventure as perfect article material.

Cue the makeover montage!

With a makeover and a nudge to try dating again, Amy relishes her newfound city life and the blissful absence of responsibility.

When Simon, a young librarian, comes into possession of a cryptic book recounting the trials of an 18th-century carnival, he discovers unsettling similarities to his family's history of drowning tragedies.

Determined to lift the curse hanging over his sister, Simon ventures to unravel this captivating mystery.

Uniquely told, these chapters alternate between the travel log (complete with sketch drawings) and the present-day as Simon tries to stop the curse on his family.

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Fiona Davis sets all her historical fiction novels around New York City landmarks and often gives you a fresh peek at a historic building. It was such a joy to share more about her research process on the Book Gang podcast.

In 1913, a family living at the New York Public Library works as its caretaker. Laura has always served in the traditional wife role but has decided to apply to Columbia to work on her degree in journalism.

Laura's headstrong behavior leads her down a path of discovery as she uncovers an all-female group where women are encouraged to talk freely about things like birth control, women's rights, and bucking traditional roles.

Here, Laura finds her people and makes some discoveries about herself and the people she loves.

Eighty years later, her granddaughter works as a curator at the same library when some rare materials go missing.  As Sadie tries to crack the case, she discovers some surprising secrets about her family.

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Lucy Hull, a young children's librarian, finds herself both a kidnapper and kidnapped when her favorite patron, ten-year-old Ian Drake, runs away from home.

She offers Ian an escape from his overbearing mother by going on an unexpected road trip together from Missouri to Vermont. As they encounter unforeseen challenges, they question who REALLY is running away.

This novel has undoubtedly a farfetched premise, but many readers have fallen in love with this unusual road trip adventure.

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Samantha is a dedicated school librarian who faces unexpected changes when her beloved school's principal dies.

Enter Duncan Carpenter, Samantha's old crush turned new principal, who surprises her with his stern demeanor.

He's nothing like she remembered. He brazenly eliminates their school's fun traditions, implements strict school rules and guidelines, and even strips color from the walls of every room!

Sam is bewildered and dismayed by Duncan's behavior, as is the rest of the staff at school. However, Sam doesn't know how Duncan has gotten to this point, and that, folks, is where the meat of the story lies. 

With its quirky characters and believable depth, this novel is another heartstring-tugging read from one of my favorite romance writers.

P.S.- Katherine Center is known for her PG-romance stories- these books are always closed-door!

Nora has had a string of bad luck, and when her cat dies, she decides this is the last straw.

This pivotal moment, though, is when she discovers the midnight library, which holds an unusual Book of Regrets, filled with all of Nora's missed chances and opportunities.

Now, Nora can live out some of her biggest regrets, which helps her realize the consequences of her choices- for better or worse.

The reader experiences these regret-filled moments and lives vicariously through Nora's missed opportunities, making it a beautiful option for book club discussions.

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In a dystopian future governed by cultural laws, twelve-year-old Bird Gardner receives a cryptic letter that launches him on a dangerous quest to find his banned poet mother, Margaret.

Guided by her forgotten folktales and aided by underground librarians, Bird navigates a world where dissent is punished and discovering the truth could ignite revolution in New York City.

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Violet Powell, a young woman from rural Maine, is being released from prison after serving time for a fatal drunk-driving crash.

Within the walls of a Portland bookstore, Violet struggles with guilt while Harriet navigates an empty nest, and Frank confronts marital troubles.

But as these three cross paths, their encounters spark a new journey through the healing power of literature.

This latest novel offers transformative second chances from the beloved author of One-In-A-Million-Boy.

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Erin Connolly, who is newly grieving, accidentally donates her cherished annotated copy of To Kill a Mockingbird to a local library.

But, after it reappears with fresh notes and an invitation from a mysterious pen pal, Erin embarks on a life-changing literary journey.

As they share their stories through the margins of classic novels, Erin discovers unexpected connections and confronts painful truths that could alter her future forever.

Release Date- 3 September 2024

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You'll feel like a kid again as you pour over the page of this book within a book coyly narrated like your favorite middle-grade chapter books.

In West Virginia, two boys vanish during a school trip to Red Crow State Forest, becoming known as the "lost boys." When a nurse discovers them seemingly unharmed months later, the mystery deepens, weaving an enchanting tale of magic and love in the heart of Appalachia.

Join us later this summer on the Book Gang podcast in another exclusive Meg Shaffer interview to learn more about her process that proves a sophomore slump doesn't have to be a thing.

Release Date- 16 July 2024

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This novel took some provocative turns, but I loved the overall message in how books can help us be more empathetic to those around us.

In this small Southern town, banned books are now available in a neighbor's little library, and the encounter changes the readers' lives.

For example, Are You There God, It's Me, Margaret teaches a boy about periods and what his mom's "bandages" under the sink are for.

But there are also more pivotal lessons, like a wife discovering The Diary of Anne Frank and understanding her husband's collection of Nazi memorabilia with a whole new lens.

At its root, the books (some real, some fictional) showcase the empathy we discover when we read these novels for the first time. 

If When Harry Met Sally is your favorite rom-com, you'll adore this laugh-out-loud enemies-to-lovers romance.

Natalie and Rob are brought together for a friend's wedding. Although sparks initially fly, the mood dampens when Natalie discovers Rob's one-star review on Goodreads.

As they navigate their newfound tension, awkward encounters unfold as they gather for their friend's momentous milestones, from baby showers to vacations.

Be sure to listen to my Laura Hankin interview on the Book Gang podcast and join us for our special spoiler episode, where we discuss the hilarious twists as she brought readers to their happily-ever-after.

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Zara expects a windfall after her father's passing, only to receive a paltry sum that barely covers her mounting bills.

Turning to ghostwriting, she finds success but soon becomes entangled in a dangerous web of obsession when she takes on a celebrity chef's memoir.

Prepare to get muddy in these treacherous waters. It's a darkly funny novel laced with ambition and deception.

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This well-researched novel offers a short story experience within its chapters.

A book curator specializing in conserving medieval documents must preserve a Hebrew manuscript from the fifteenth century. This intriguing book was saved from the ruins of a bombed library, but it holds a mesmerizing story.

Hannah's curiosity and sleuthing offer readers many microscopic mysteries in the restoration of this book of prayers.

Jennifer Kim's deadpan narration in this novel's audiobook adds a delicious layer to this satirical story.

Ingrid Yang's academic struggles take a strange turn when she stumbles upon a scathing note challenging her dissertation research on a celebrated poet.

With the help of her K-drama-loving best friend Eunice, a girl who understands a good plot twist, they try to uncover the mystery behind this renowned literary figure.

This discovery leads to unexpected revelations about race, identity, and the often absurd nature of academia.

But readers should prepare for a long and winding road to the finish.

In the frigid isolation of early 1900s Svalbard, Sven finds solace in the icy wilderness and the pages of his beloved books. With his battered copies as constant companions, he seeks refuge from the harsh realities of his surroundings and the scars of his past.

However, unexpected friendships with a Scottish executive and a Finnish trapper shatter his solitude, opening this introvert's world to companionship and connection.

It was such a joy to spend a day with Nathaniel, discussing his writing process for this uniquely imagined world. He not only holds an MFA in Creative Writing and MS in Environmental Studies from the University of Montana, but he is also a former resident of the Arctic Circle Expeditionary Program.

You can unlock this interview by joining our book club.

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Candace Chen struggles to navigate the challenges of her pre-pandemic role in a publishing house amid the sweeping effects of a global health crisis.

Ma offers readers a fascinating look at the internal workings of a publishing house through intriguing insights into the unique printing processes of Bibles overseas, including how they achieve printing on those paper-thin pages.

I can't wait to dissect this novel together in our book club this year!

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This juicy novel offers readers a horrifying case of literary deception as a white author shamelessly appropriates the identity of an Asian writer for personal gain.

June Hayward and Athena Liu were Yale classmates destined for literary stardom. But when Athena dies unexpectedly, June seizes the opportunity to claim Athena's manuscript as her own.

From choosing an ambiguous pseudonym to the marketing strategy, Kunag's biting commentary on publishing is propulsive and illuminating.

It would make an incredible book pairing with Disorientation!

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In this Read with Jenna book, an African-American author launches a cross-country tour to promote his bestselling novel.

His journey intertwines with the moving stories of Soot, a young Black boy from a rural town, and The Kid, a possibly imaginary child who appears to him along the way.

As these stories converge, the novel explores the harsh realities of racism that electrify into a powerful exploration of identity and societal issues.

This story serves as a gentle reminder to keep going despite life's challenges and highlights the impact of our choices on others.

There is a library beyond the universe where books recount stories of alternate realities. One describes your present life, while others narrate the paths you could have taken.

Readers are introduced to Nora, the protagonist exploring different life choices in this magical Midnight Library. The concept resonated deeply with many of our book club members the year we selected it.

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In this uniquely built novel, Alice's debut unfolds like a tapestry in this story, weaving together the lives of nine different readers who find themselves profoundly changed by her words.

From a homeless teenager seeking solace in fiction to a grieving widower finding hope anew, each character discovers unexpected revelations within Alice's novel.

As their individual stories pull together, Erica Bauermeister showcases the transformative power of fiction's ability to inspire and heal.

Alice Pearse is a working mother doing her best to juggle it all. She unexpectedly plunges into a new bookish career, snagging a dream job at Scroll.

This hip young start-up promises to be the future of reading, with its chain of chic literary lounges and dedication to beloved classics. 

All goes swimmingly until her dad gets sick, her marriage flounders, her babysitter quits, and work serves up some wild plot twists.

As you can imagine, the balancing jig for Alice might be up, and this mom discovers some surprising truths about work-life balance.

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This novel offers a full cast audiobook narration with Aja Naomi King, Heather Alicia Simms, and Bahni Turpin.

At Wagner Books, Nella Rogers is the only Black woman on staff who deals with her colleagues' daily microaggressions. When another Black woman joins the agency, Nella hopes for solidarity and support.

However, tensions arise when a bestselling author's racially insensitive storyline tests their relationship, leading to a showdown with far-reaching consequences.

Don't miss The Other Black Girl series adaptation on Hulu, which rivaled the book primarily as they changed the book's ending for the series.

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James lands a dream deal with a major publishing house, only to discover his editor is Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis herself.

Entranced by James's autobiographical novel, Mrs. Onassis becomes his guiding literary force, urging him to excavate his family's layered story.

As he wrestles with his story's shortcomings, her gentle guidance leads him back to his roots, where he unearths the truths he's been avoiding all along.

Steven Rowley masterfully honors Mrs. Onassis's legacy with grace and respect, weaving a fictional narrative that captures her essence through stunning observation.

This chunky novel is in my summer stack and I am SO excited to dig in. I've heard incredible things.

For the Kalotay family, ancient books hold magical secrets. Estranged sisters Joanna and Esther, raised to protect these treasures, must reunite when their father's death reveals a mysterious volume.

As they explore their family's legacy, they uncover hidden secrets spanning centuries and continents, leading them to a world of danger they never imagined.

In Meg Shaffer's whimsical, cozy fantasy novel, a devoted teacher's aide is invited into the enchanting world of her favorite childhood series, Clock Island, through a contest hosted by the author where she could win a life-altering prize.

However, the competition is fierce for these loyal readers. Lucy must battle ruthless book collectors and wily opponents.

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In a sprawling mansion filled with peculiar treasures, January Scaller harbors a secret: the discovery of a magical door to another world at age seven.

When she unearths a hidden book detailing the adventures of another door-seeker named Adelaide, January's journey of self-discovery begins.

With tantalizing prose and enchanting world-building, Harrow leads readers on a mesmerizing fantasy adventure. I was entranced.

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Julia Whelan is a screenwriter, lifelong actor, and award-winning audiobook narrator of over FIVE HUNDRED BOOKS. Indulging through the audiobook format is the only way to enjoy this one.

In this steamy romance, two audiobook narrators are tasked with bringing a legendary novelist's book to life, which offers readers a rather intimate look at an audiobook partnership.

This novel dishes up some surprising routines in an audiobook narrator's life, from narration preparation to snack routines that mimic Julia's daily habits.

In a meta moment, Julia offers the fictional project Casanova LLC  as an audiobook experience for readers on her new exclusive platform.

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When acclaimed author Eva Mercy and literary icon Shane Hall cross paths at a literary event after nearly a decade, their reunion ignites a tornado of emotions as they process their past romance, which had spanned seven unforgettable days as teenagers.

Fifteen years later, they still found references to themselves in each other's books, so this reunion has been a long time coming. 

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The audiobooks of Emily Henry's novels, all narrated by Julia Whelan, are a must-listen. Undoubtedly subjective, this novel would be my pick if forced to choose the best Emily Henry book.

In this grumpy-sunshine story, Nora is a determined literary agent who doesn't identify with traditional romantic heroines or small-town love stories.

But, when her sister convinces her to spend the summer in a charming small town that seems straight out of a Hallmark movie, she finds herself in the perfect spot for a meet-cute.

So, when Nora discovers that the grumpy editor she's been avoiding since an awkward encounter lives in the town where she's vacationing, her trip unfolds with more plot twists than expected.

Hazel's tranquil life in 1960s London is disrupted in this historical fiction book when she uncovers a rare book tied to her past.

Evacuated to the English countryside during WWII with her younger sister Flora, Hazel created a world called Whisperwood to comfort her.

But tragedy struck when Flora vanished, leaving Hazel burdened with guilt.

Years later, as Hazel explores these secrets hidden within the book, long-held family mysteries resurface.

This novel explores sisterly bonds and the enduring power of storytelling as Hazel seeks to uncover the truth about Flora's disappearance, which many readers have found so satisfying.

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Narrated by Death, this young adult novel brings a hauntingly unique perspective to the devastating era of Hitler's reign.

The story follows a poor German girl taken in by a foster family where her adopted father's lessons in reading become her lifeline.

But in a time of great poverty and where books were scarce, this little girl becomes a "book thief," stealing books for reading. It's a stunning tale showcasing the hope books offer readers in dark times.

Fun Fact: Erika Swyler learned the bookbinding process and bound this manuscript to try to catch an editor's eye.

When young librarian Simon receives a mysterious book detailing the travails of a 1700s carnival, he uncovers chilling parallels to his family's history of drowning tragedies.

Desperate to break the curse looming over his sister, Simon pursues this mesmerizing mystery, which unfolds in a seamless narrative that pulls together the past and present, taking readers on a beautiful journey.

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Natalie, a struggling writer, faces a new challenge when she discovers a scathing one-star review of her debut novel on GoodReads—penned by Rob, the meticulous best man at her friend's upcoming wedding.

Forced into close proximity as maid-of-honor and best man, Natalie and Rob navigate some pivotal moments over the years—vacations, celebrations, and more. Readers discover a beautiful series of heartwarming revelations as the two confront their differences.

Don't miss my Laura Hankin interview, during which we discuss this romance book and offer advice for writers navigating their GoodReads review moments. It's an enlightening conversation!

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In Gill Paul's new novel, Mad Men meets the scandalous world of 1960s publishing.

Jacqueline Susann's Valley of the Dolls and Jackie Collins's The World Is Full of Married Men shake up the literary scene, but both women pay a steep price for writing about sex.

As they face public backlash, young editorial assistant Nancy White navigates the rampant sexism at her Manhattan publishing job.

Nancy's friendship with Susann and her connection to Collins ignite a race to the top of the bestseller charts. Let's hope that Ryan Murphy picks this one up for adaptation!

Release Date- 13 August 2024

This literary fiction novel is at the top of my summer stack because it resonates with Mona Awad fans.

Astrid Dahl, a midlist author with a penchant for collecting perfumes, is struggling to stay sober and avoid falling into another toxic relationship with her new Los Angeles neighbor.

But as she finds herself caught between the secretive Ivy from her online writing group and the captivating Penelope next door, Astrid's world spirals.

Readers set off on a sapphic roller-coaster ride that pays homage to the history of lesbian pulp fiction.

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Paging The Bachelor fans- this new adult debut novel is for you.

Jacqueline Matthis, a romance novelist whose career has hit a slump, plans to boost her book sales by joining a Bachelor-esque reality show called the 1.

Her goal isn't to win the bachelor's heart, Marcus Bellamy, but to gain enough attention to revive her career.

However, things get complicated when she has a one-night stand with Henry, a show producer, just before filming starts.

She is cast as the season's villain as she navigates the show's drama, torn between her growing attraction to Henry and Marcus's unexpected interest in her.

Release Date- 2 July 2024

Turning to ghostwriting to make ends meet, Zara lands a coveted job penning the memoir of celebrity chef Jane Bailey, renowned for her budget-friendly culinary creations.

Thrilled by the luxurious perks of Jane's estate, Zara soon discovers unsettling secrets hidden beneath the facade.

But, as their collaboration deepens, readers are pulled into a direction you likely won't expect.  

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My co-host on our FULLY BOOKED Patreon podcast loved this new romance book from the screenwriter charged with bringing two Emily Henry movie adaptations to life.

Shortly before their senior year ends, a shocking accident tragically brings Helen and Grant's lives together.

Thirteen years later, Helen is a bestselling YA author whose series is being adapted for TV, and Grant is a successful screenwriter hired for her show.

Despite their painful past, they agree to work together professionally.

But, as they rekindle their friendship, their feelings intensify, showcasing their complicated history.

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This new Judy Blume biography traces her humble beginnings as a suburban New Jersey mother to becoming a literary sensation in the 1960s.

Despite facing intense censorship and backlash, Blume's unwavering commitment to honest storytelling transformed cultural norms and ignited conversations about women's rights, autonomy, and adolescence.

Release Date- 16 July 2024

This nonfiction memoir debut follows aspiring novelist Cory Leadbeater, who believes he has escaped a dead-end life by landing a job as Joan Didion's assistant.

However, proximity to literary greatness does not grant this gift, and Cory harbors many secrets that this memoir carefully unearths.  

Poetic and deeply personal, fans of Joan Didion love this tribute to the author.

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We all have encountered Judith Jones's work, but we may have never tied so many of our favorite book moments to her revolutionary career.

In this illuminating biography, we discover her serendipitous encounter with Anne Frank's diary at Doubleday's Paris office in 1949.

Jones's keen editorial eye and passion for literature propelled her to champion voices like Sylvia Plath, Anne Tyler, and John Updike during her illustrious fifty-year tenure at Alfred A. Knopf.

But, beyond shaping literary icons, Jones revolutionized publishing by spearheading cookbook trends down to the unique delivery of cooking instructions, cementing her legacy as a visionary editor whose influence transcends generations.

This 2022 Booker Prize Longlist nominee intricately weaves four narratives to explore the themes of wealth, power, and the voices often silenced in history.

In this mixed media experience, readers can access a novella, manuscript, memoir, and diary exploring America's elite during the Roaring '20s and the Great Depression.

This captivating, thought-provoking story challenges readers to discern truth within its unreliable characters and multifaceted plot, making it a must-read for fans of complex, character-driven stories.

Eve is an aspiring writer who has been dissatisfied with her current job. When the opportunity arises to work as an assistant to a famous New Yorker writer, she jumps at the job offer.

Not only does she get to act as his research assistant, but she also gets to live there and immerse herself in their lives.

The job entails a coveted invitation to attend their annual "Book" Party, where attendees are encouraged to dress like their favorite literary characters.

You would be surprised how much drama can unfold in such a short read- I devoured it in a day!

This satirical novel offers thought-provoking commentary on the publishing industry's treatment of race and identity.

The story follows Thelonious "Monk" Ellison, an African American writer who struggles with the industry's demand for stereotypical narratives.

He creates an outrageous pseudonym to expose these biases, which inevitably brings him the elusive fame and fortune he's always been chasing.

If you love it, I recommend streaming American Fiction, one of my favorite films of the year. It is now available for streaming and is an adaptation of this novel!

Maurice has always wanted to be a writer but lives an uninspired life.

He will do all he can, though, to achieve his fame and fortune by stealing the stories of others by any means necessary and calling them his own.

Prepare for a master manipulator as he coerces stories from others and receives the fame he has always dreamed of. But as Maurice ages, he begins to lose his charm.

So, when a student decides to write a piece on him for college, he indulges in his first good story. No longer feeling the need to tell any lies, he wolfishly reveals his truth in all its glory, leading to some brilliant plot twists leaning heavily into satire.

I fell in love with Lily King's writing this year when I discovered Father of the Rain, which made my Best Fiction Books of 2023 list.

This month I've been reading this novel, where Casey Peabody navigates her creative ambitions in one of my favorite decades- the 90s!

Juggling multiple jobs, mourning her mother's death, and struggling to finish her novel, Casey is drawn to two distinctly different men: Oscar, a successful writer with a complicated past, and Silas, a sensitive yet unreliable artist.

As Casey wrestles with her insecurities and desires, King's prose captures the raw, messy reality of pursuing dreams while navigating the complexities of the heart.

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In this character-driven story, an unnamed English professor at a small college navigates the fallout from her husband's numerous affairs with students.

Instead of feeling betrayed, she is frustrated by the scrutiny and forced performance as the outraged spouse.

So, when the college hires the handsome and successful novelist Vladimir Vladinski, her jealousy over his literary acclaim and her sexual attraction to him ignites obsession.

This leads to a tense and gripping narrative on power dynamics in marriage and academia that could yield an incredible book club discussion.

Amidst the aftermath of a confessed affair, Augusta, a seasoned painter, and her writer husband, Owen, seek solace on a farm.

To their surprise, a new neighbor develops unexpected connections with them, building tension for the reader and their marriage.

I loved this character-driven love story, which beautifully unravels their vulnerabilities of aging and the fragility of marriage.

Acclaimed author Paul Sheldon finds himself at the mercy of his biggest fan, Annie Wilkes after a near-fatal car accident leaves him trapped in her remote home.

However, as Paul recovers from his injuries, he realizes that Annie's obsession with his novels goes beyond mere admiration, plunging him into a terrifying struggle for survival

This novel later was memorably captured on screen by Kathy Bates in the Misery movie adaptation.

This provocative novel about cultural appropriation in the literary world offers readers a juicy publishing story when a struggling writer steals the manuscript of her deceased friend, a successful Asian American author

The most eye-opening scenes involve the author's marketing and publishing team, creating her ambiguous pseudonym that may convince readers that the author has a more complex race story than reality.  My jaw was to the ground!

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Bestselling romance author Helena Ross faces a daunting truth: her time is running out. With a heavy heart, she sets aside writing in her beloved genre to confront a haunting secret she can no longer ignore.

In her race against time, Helena enlists the help of a skilled rival to ghostwrite the untold story, which has weighed on her conscience for four years.

But, as these truths unravel and emotions run high, Helena must navigate the delicate balance between fiction and reality in this thrilling selection.

This novel is part of the Kindle Unlimited catalog.

An aspiring writer takes on the daunting task of completing the remaining books in an acclaimed series by the now-bedridden author Verity Crawford.

But, when she moves in with the writer's family to immerse herself in Verity's world and process, she uncovers dark and unsettling truths about her life.

I found the ending quite clever and recommend it for an easy read to keep you guessing.

Jo Jones is an autistic editor who inherits a rundown English estate. Her keen eye for detail helps her unravel the estate's hidden mysteries when a valuable portrait disappears and a body turns up.

Inspired by the author's personal insights, Schillace creates a sharp-witted investigator who demonstrates how Autism can provide a unique advantage in solving mysteries.

This novel has been a huge hit with our cozy mystery readers.

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In this twisty and suspenseful debut, a young aspiring writer seizes the opportunity to become the assistant to a reclusive and successful author.

But the writer finds herself involved in a horrible car crash, waking up to find the author and her identification gone.

Seizing the chance of a lifetime, she considers stepping into her shoes and becoming Maud Dixon, offering the reader page-turning reveals.

January and Augustus are next-door neighbors who are both writers. While January works hard to pen a perfectly romantic happily ever after, Augustus writes well-researched stories that kill off his characters.

So, when they discover they both are in a writing slump, they strike a deal to help each other get out of it.

Augustus will write something happy, and January will tackle a serious novel. But as they explore each other's writing processes, they discover an unexpected romance off the pages.

I recommend the audiobooks for all of Emily Henry's books because they are narrated by Julia Whelan, who adds extra magic to each story.

Although I chose Beach Read for this assignment, Book Lovers is also a fantastic pick for this assignment!

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Evelyn Hugo is an aging starlet who has decided to hire a magazine reporter to write her biography. As someone who has been very private, it is the chance of a lifetime for a virtually unknown writer to be given a story worth millions of dollars.

As she opens up about her seven marriages to a young journalist, Evelyn's narrative reveals the glamour and ambition that drove her and the sacrifices and secrets she kept to protect herself and her legacy.

Through Jenkins Reid's skillful portrayal, Evelyn Hugo becomes a complex and unforgettable character for her readers, launching her career into Booktok book fandom.

The author's way of navigating these revelations is as fascinating as the starlet's plot in this story.

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I gave this sweet romance a glowing five-star review for a perfect play on the ghosts and ghost writers.

Florence Day is struggling through a painful breakup while ghostwriting for a renowned romance author.

When a stubborn editor refuses an extension, Florence's career is jeopardized. Then, news of her father's passing compels her to return home after a decade.

Back in her Southern town, she is haunted by the eerie presence of a ghost at her family's funeral parlor.

But, as Florence navigates both the mysteries of the afterlife and her skepticism about love, she discovers that romance may still have a story to tell, even in death.

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This is my all-time favorite romance novel.

When Eva Mercy and Shane Hall, two acclaimed Black writers, cross paths at a long-awaited reunion, their shared history unfolds.

To say more will rob you of the angst, the passion, and the longing between these childhood sweethearts.

I love that you feel like you get a peek behind the curtain at both the writing process and the creative challenges of creation.

If you want to see these fictional authors on tour, take advantage of their cameo in The Love Song of Ricki Wilde.

In this spicy romance, a ghostwriter finds herself giving sex lessons to her celebrity client during a series of fan conventions.

Solomon's novel was selected by the New York Times as a Best Romance of 2023.

The reviewer noted its unique exploration of intimacy, which reverses the idea of what we see as true intimacy in life and the bedroom.

Now is the time to indulge in this literary thriller, as The Sequel hits store shelves in October 2024.

Jacob Finch Bonner always dreamed of being a successful writer, but his writing career has yet to go as planned.

Struggling for inspiration, he ends up teaching in an MFA program where a student claimed to have the perfect plot for a book that would be a sensation.

But after his death, Jacob uses his plot for his latest novel, which becomes a massive success.

However, his triumph is short-lived when he starts receiving threats.

Margaret Fuller accepts an invitation from Ralph Waldo Emerson to meet his circle of enlightened friends.

It's through this introduction that Fuller becomes a role model to a young Louisa May Alcott, an inspiration for Nathaniel Hawthorne's Hester Prynne and the scandalous Scarlet Letter, a friend to Henry David Thoreau as he ventures out to Walden Pond . . . and a muse to Emerson.

But chances are that you knew little about her life's other fascinating details, like her role as the first female foreign news correspondent!

This illuminating historical fiction novel, from the author of The Magnificent Lives of Marjorie Post, helps fill in the gaps on a literary muse.

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In this vibrant historical fiction novel, Marilyn Kleinman's life takes surprising turns when a scandalous incident with the Rabbi's son threatens to tarnish the family's reputation.

Sent to her firecracker Aunt, her family hopes she can help restore Marilyn's reputation.

But, as Marilyn navigates the summer under Ada's guidance, she discovers unexpected freedom and a chance to rewrite her future through a gifted typewriter to pen her first novel. 

I recommend this sweet novel to Judy Blume fans.

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We couldn't have a list of books about writers without including Jo March, the spirited and determined aspiring writer, in this classic sister story.

Jo's writing career develops during the Civil War, during which she courageously pursues her greatest literary ambitions despite societal expectations.

From her makeshift attic writing space to the challenges of publishing her stories, Jo embodies the timeless struggles and triumphs of a young woman striving to make her mark in the literary world.

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"All children mythologize their birth… Ask him to tell you about when he was born. What you get won't be the truth; it will be a story. And nothing is more telling than a story."

So begins Diane Setterfield's beautiful debut novel, which took me on an adventure that I did not want to end.

Margaret Lea, who leads a quiet life with her father, receives an unexpected letter from a world-famous, reclusive author.

Vida Winter requests Margaret to write her untold life story, which is as captivating as it is eerily similar to Margaret.

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Don't miss my Nicola Yoon interview on Book Gang, where we discuss her adult debut that she penned in 2020 blending the worlds of Get Out with The Stepford Wives for readers.

A wealthy young family decides to relocate to a newly created utopian Black community, which offers comfort and safety for its residents that they cannot achieve in the real world.

As she settles into her new home, she discovers these new neighbors have a bizarre fixation on self-care and wellness.

The neighborhood's ideals clash with the mother's feeling of being removed from the conversations around social justice issues.

But, the truth that explores these intentions becomes the more troubling mystery as she uncovers the origin story of the neighborhood and its people.

Patrons can join me for a spoiler episode as we discuss the One of Our Kind ending, which many early readers are eager to uncover after finishing that final page.

Rob Hart is joining the Book Gang podcast for his new novel, Assassins Anonymous, but Patreon supporters are in for a treat because he discusses the inspiration for this book club book in his bonus spoiler episode.

In The Warehouse, Cloud dominates the American economy, providing everything from food to shelter to communication.

Through multiple perspectives, readers are immersed in the world of Cloud, from the founder's struggle with cancer to the experiences of those dependent on the company for survival.

But, when Zinnia goes undercover to uncover Cloud's secrets, she enlists the help of Paxton, a security worker, to expose the corporate greed and hidden agendas driving the company.

This gripping narrative explores themes of corporate dominance and the consequences of overreliance on a single entity, echoing the discomforting reality of our increasing dependence on corporate giants like Amazon and Walmart.

Narrated ingeniously on audiobook, this thought-provoking exploration of our future economy, sparked intense discussion in book club.

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I loved this novel so much that I selected it for our 2024 MomAdvice Book Club year.

In it, the horrors of corporate life and societal decay collide in a chilling tale that serves as a stark commentary on the dehumanizing effects of capitalism and consumer culture.

Candace Chen navigates her pre-pandemic role at a publishing house amidst the chaos of a devastating virus where readers are confronted with the unsettling parallels to our own reality.

Ma's portrayal of a world plagued by the Shen Fever virus exposes the insidious nature of societal norms and the relentless pursuit of productivity, even in the face of a pandemic.

Did this hit a little too close to home? It did- and I can't wait to discuss it.

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If you have ever been part of a tech start-up, this depiction of Silicon Valley will remind you of your time there.

In this literary fiction novel, Cassie feels like a Black Hole is hanging around as her corporate position demands more and more from her mentally and physically.

As a means of coping, she fractures herself into two beings- one who gives up her weekends and moral compass to get ahead and her real self battling depression and the reality that nothing she will ever sacrifice will be enough for this company.

I found it to be bleak, but so effective. You can practically feel the company logo on the Patagonia half-zip that each character wears and works toward.

Readers craving a modern gothic thriller that explores the dark side of wealth and privilege will love this Kit Mayquist debut.

Lena's family may face bankruptcy after her father is injured and laid off from his successful job.

But, when Lena uncovers that this family may have been to blame for her father's job loss, she decides to use her knowledge of botany and poisons to exact revenge at one of their infamous parties.

All doesn't go as planned, though, leading to a spiral of epic proportions.

If you loved "Boar on the Floor" in Succession, you'll appreciate the party scenes where rich people get exactly what's coming to them.

This translated work is one of the most impactful and horrifying reads I've ever read. However, these acts of violence rarely feel gratuitous, only presenting our complicated relationship with our food sources.

In this dystopian nightmare, a devastating virus renders animals unfit for consumption, leading the government to implement "Transition"—a dreadful solution where human flesh becomes the new meat source.

Marcos, a worker at one of these processing plants, wrestles with the horrors of his job until an unexpected gift sparks a forbidden relationship that challenges everything he knows.

Bazterrica's unsettling narrative forces readers to confront uncomfortable truths about our food factories, meat consumption, and class divides.

It was a surprise to discover that this short dystopian novel is now being used in schools just as The Handmaid's Tale & Fahrenheit 451 are taught in many classrooms.

When Noemi receives an odd letter from her cousin, she visits the Mexican countryside to see what is troubling her cousin.

Upon arriving, she's baffled by the home's condition, the weird staff, the lack of electricity, and the odd family. What Noemi can't figure out, though, is why she's having such disturbing dreams and what powers this house holds over its people.

This atmospheric novel explores deeply rooted themes of colonialism, eugenics, and the patriarchy within a chilling gothic horror setting.

Noemi may be a spoiled debutante, but she is also one smart cookie! This remains my favorite Silvia Moreno-Garcia book.

This young adult debut novel offers a slow-burn mystery with a dark academia plot exposing the secrets of an elite private school.

As the story unravels and tensions rise, two students, Devon and Chiamaka, are targeted by an anonymous figure known as Aces, who threatens to reveal their darkest secrets.

With themes of power, privilege, and manipulation, readers can peek beneath the sinister forces within institutionalized environments and the lengths they go to protect themselves.

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This dystopian novel is one of the rare cases where I thought the Netflix adaptation was even better than the book, but I am still glad I read it first.

A Brooklyn family's weekend getaway is disrupted when the wealthy Black owners of the rented house unexpectedly return during a city-wide power outage.

As tensions rise and societal expectations unravel, this Read With Jenna book club book explores the complexities of race and privilege.

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This science-fiction novel is an Edgar Award nominee, and best enjoyed in audiobook format. We had an incredible book club discussion on gentrification thanks to this clever horror novel.

Sydney Green was born and raised in Brooklyn, but her neighborhood seems to be changing before her very eyes.

Lifelong neighbors are now throwing up for sale signs, and the shops she has visited for years are replaced by hipster juice bars.

She decides to dive deep into the neighborhood's history and finds an unlikely assistant when taking a city walking tour.

What the two uncover can only be categorized as a nightmare, and they must band together to stop the evil forces at work.

This novel offers reflection on the exploitation and erasure of marginalized communities that is perfect for book clubs as starting conversations. I'm glad we read this together.

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You'll love this book if you felt pulled to Jordan Peele's version of Candyman. But, the truth is, I've never met a Tiffany Jackson book that I didn't like- this is no exception.

In this young adult novel, Marigold, struggling with anxiety after a traumatic bedbug infestation. She is now moving with her newly blended family to a seemingly perfect home in a rundown neighborhood.

The house, offered rent-free through her mother's new job at the Sterling Foundation, harbors dark secrets that put Marigold's anxiety further on edge.

But as unsettling events unfold, the intricate story from the past haunts with the real modern social horrors of systemic racism and gentrification.

In this gory novel, four Indigenous men are pursued by a vengeful spirit, embodying a traumatic elk hunt from their youth.

As the supernatural elements unfold, Jones builds out broader social issues of cultural assimilation and the internal and external conflicts Indigenous people face in contemporary society.

This slow-burn mystery, inspired by Harris's real-life career in the publishing world, is best enjoyed on audiobook. The novel offers a cast narration with Aja Naomi King, Heather Alicia Simms, and Bahni Turpin.

In the cutthroat world of publishing, Nella Rogers stands out as the only Black woman at Wagner Books.

She endures a daily onslaught of microaggressions. When another Black woman, Hazel, joins the company, Nella sees hope for solidarity and understanding.

However, tensions rise as a bestselling author's racially charged manuscript divides the office, revealing deep-seated prejudices and power dynamics.

Harris deftly exposes the insidious nature of workplace discrimination and the toll it takes on marginalized individuals, culminating in a chilling revelation that challenges our notions of progress and equality.

We can't discuss all the writers who Jordan Peele inspired without including this new short story collection from the author and a slew of incredible writers.

As this is hard to summarize, here is the official pitch:

"A cop begins seeing huge, blinking eyes where the headlights of cars should be that tell him who to pull over. Two freedom riders take a bus ride that leaves them stranded on a lonely road in Alabama where several unsettling somethings await them. A young girl dives into the depths of the Earth in search of the demon that killed her parents."

These are just a few of the worlds of Out There Screaming, Jordan Peele’s anthology of all-new horror stories by Black writers.

When Nicola Yoon heard an episode on The Stepford Wives on "You're Wrong About," it inspired her so much that she penned her adult debut. It's a fascinating deep dive, worth your podcast time- I was riveted!

Joanna Eberhart moves to the seemingly idyllic town of Stepford, only to discover that the town's women, once vibrant and independent, have become eerily docile and obsessed with domestic perfection.

As she dives deeper, she uncovers a sinister plot by the town's men to replace their wives with obedient robots.

This novel is a sharp commentary on the societal pressure for women to conform to patriarchal standards and the horrifying lengths to which men will go to maintain control.

Levin's well-known work remains a powerful exploration of gender roles, autonomy, and the dark side of suburban life.

Women are now only allowed 100 words a day in this novel.

Dr. Jean Mcclellan could have never imagined that political officials would ever be able to pass such a law, but she now finds herself wearing an electronic bracelet where each word is counted, and each word overage is punished.

When the president needs her expertise to help his brother recover from an accident, where his brain speech center has suffered from disruption, she decides to leverage this to have her word count bracelet removed to help herself and her family.

The author's clever debut concept was crafted by using her background as a linguist in this uncomfortable exploration that questions our silence during political times.

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While Mona Awad may be best known for her beloved Booktok book, Bunny, this novel resonated with me the most.

Miranda Fitch grapples with chronic pain, a fractured marriage, and the isolating struggle to be believed by medical professionals.

When Miranda encounters three mysterious men promising relief from her back pain, her newfound relief comes with a chilling cost—those who doubted her now experience her pain firsthand.

Awad's exploration of the ways the medical community gaslights women and the haunting consequences of seeking validation in a society that dismisses invisible illnesses makes this novel a gripping tale of social horror that I found angering and healing.

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This novel is memorable for many reasons, but one was the publicity packaging sent to me, which included school supplies with haunting phrases from this story.

Frida Liu, a single mother, faces the consequences of a momentary lapse in her mothering duties and is required to endure a brutal re-education program designed to mold her into the "ideal" mother.

Through Frida's harrowing journey in the school, Chan exposes the societal pressures and vulnerabilities of maternal guilt, laying bare the impossible standards placed on mothers.

These robot baby scenes are seared in my memories forever.

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This queer gothic horror novel had been recommended by so many of our Book Gang podcast guests that I dove in as soon as possible, but it is not a book for the faint of heart.

Jonah, a young, aspiring playwright, becomes entangled in a toxic relationship with Richard, a wealthy and influential older man.

As Jonah is drawn deeper into Richard's opulent world in the Hamptons, he begins to uncover his benefactor's dark and manipulative nature and the horrifying secrets that lie beneath the surface.

This novel initiated some critical contemplations on the #metoo movement that challenged me as a reader, although readers should prepare for a very provocative plot that takes disturbing turns.

Are you burned out on books about podcasts but looking for new ways to interact with a thriller?

This unique social horror novel uses a savvy narration tool— a Greek chorus-style narration whose voices are anonymous gamers from platforms like 4chan and Reddit.

Eliza Bright's journey as one of the few women in a male-dominated gaming company exposes the dark underbelly of online harassment and misogyny within the gaming community.

When she reports workplace harassment, her decision to seek justice through the media ignites a firestorm of demonization and dangerous harassment.

This novel offers a chilling commentary on the pervasive toxicity of misogyny and cyberbullying in male-dominated workplaces.

I can tell if a horror novel is compelling if I am still contemplating its themes like I have with this one, but readers should know that this novel has body horror themes- it will fit Grady Hendrix fans best!

Mars is away at a fancy summer camp, but navigating social situations at camp is challenging due to their genderfluidity.

But this year's camp visit is twofold as it is coupled with unraveling the mystery behind their sister's tragic death. Mars must befriend the queen bee girls to finally unlock the truth.

As they dive deep into camp traditions, they uncover some surprising truths.

I loved the razor-sharp wit as Mars challenges these fellow campers as they navigate life at camp with toxic boys, but the book's ending had me reeling.

I didn't initially consider this novel a social horror book. But, when we hosted the author to discuss his experience and research on dating apps, the story's roots are tied to the horrifying reality of algorithms in them.

As Gwen navigates the world of swiping left and right in search of love, she unwittingly becomes entangled in a nightmare when her dates start turning up dead in their coastal English town.

With each chapter dedicated to a doomed date, Chilton masterfully weaves red herrings and deliciously evil characters, keeping readers guessing until the shocking conclusion.

This murder mystery perfectly addresses the disposable nature of people in these apps but brings it all to life with a campy whodunit.

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It was an honor to interview Josh Malerman and hear about his process with this novel before the incredible adaptation.

With creatures lurking outside that induce madness and death upon those who lay eyes on them, Malorie must navigate a treacherous journey with her two children blindfolded along a river in search of safety.

Alternating between the pre- and post-creature worlds, Malerman masterfully crafts a narrative that builds tension with every page turn.

Many theories exist about those creatures, but one of the biggest components is how social media can make people unaware of what's happening around them.

Other prominent themes include mental illness and the challenges of parenthood. These creatures, though, can represent our greatest fears and why we struggle to face them.

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