This moving novel takes us to the Dutch countryside in 1961, exploring the story of a woman who clings to her rigid routines in her childhood home but finds her life disrupted when her brother's girlfriend arrives, shattering her carefully maintained order.

What unfolds is a deeply layered, character-driven tale that gradually reveals the complexities of the story's protagonist. The novel offers surprising twists in a beautiful, slow-burning narrative to reward its patient readers.

Amidst the brutality of World War I, this historical novel centers on Henry and Sydney, two boys at a British boarding school whose tight-knit friendships are tested as war intrudes on their youth.

This novel helped me understand what happened to these people in this period and the ramifications. It's a poignant narrative about camaraderie, loss, and the profound costs of conflict.

Editor's Note: I recommend pairing the audiobook with the paper book for a truly immersive experience. Readers are offered a mixed media experience with newspapers to comb through to discover the fallen victims.

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Elwood's life takes a harrowing turn when a single misstep lands him at the Nickel Academy, a reform school steeped in cruelty and corruption.

When pure-hearted Elwood befriends a hard-scrabble, jaded boy named Turner, they will do whatever they need to survive the horrifying system.

I can't recommend this short novel enough, and readers can read it before the release of  The Nickel Boys movie, which is coming to theaters soon.

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In the confines of Hailsham, a seemingly idyllic English boarding school, Kathy, Ruth, and Tommy's childhoods are infused with mystery and a dash of subtle dread for the reader.

Reflecting on their time together, the narrator, now in adulthood, tells the story with some perspective.

This novel plays with structure, and once I got the hang of it, I immediately wanted to read more by this author.

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I love literary suspense, and Kukafka masterfully shifts the crime genre's lens in this compelling tale of a death-row inmate told through the perspectives of the women connected to him.

Atmospheric and rich in character, the story dismantles the conventional narratives of guilt and consequence, highlighting the ripples left by violence through its different perspectives.

In my local book club, every member enjoyed the reading experience. and readers will find this novel has broad appeal across audiences.

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Thank you to Random House for the advanced copy. This novel publishes on January 28th.

I was lucky to be an early screener for this novel after Charmaine Wilkerson's smashing success with her debut novel, Black Cake.

This story centers on Ebby Freeman, who, as a child, witnessed an unspeakable act of violence against her brother that altered the course of her life and shattered her family's tranquility.

Decades later, the echoes of that day still reverberate, not just in the scars left behind but in the enduring mystery surrounding the shattered pieces of a treasured family heirloom.

This stoneware jar brought North by an ancestor who endured unimaginable hardship encapsulates Ebby's lineage, harboring secrets that could help her move forward.

Readers are taken through sweeping turns as this stoneware exchanges hands where Wilkerson masterfully balances past and present.

Wilkerson's signature lyrical prose captures the lingering impact of generational trauma and the unyielding strength of familial bonds. Her background as a journalist exploring the trauma of being a headline news topic, in particular, is done with great care.

Franny Stone, haunted by her past and tethered to the dwindling wildlife of a changing world, sets out to track the final migration of Arctic terns.

Her tragic life spills out in haunting memories that leave the reader breathless and let us know that she is boarding this boat for some profound reasons we will soon discover through her flashback sequences.

I found this story to be uniquely told, enthralling, and disturbing. The themes of a world left behind by the devastation of climate change feel altogether too close, which might be why this storyline was so compelling.

This 2010 novel transported me through three decades of the narrator's life, bookended with the Nixon to Obama eras for timing, as it intricately weaves the haunting narrative of a daughter grappling with her father's alcoholism.

King's memoir-like portrayal offers a pitch-perfect 11-year-old perspective and the subsequent impact on her adult life. As illuminating as the adult chapters navigating an interracial relationship, I had never considered until reading this story.

Infuriating, sad, and reflective, it unveils the complexities of navigating a narcissistic loved one's sobriety and finding your voice in the process.

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After losing her eleven-year-old son Santiago, Magos is desperate to keep a piece of him alive. Instead of a lock of hair, she takes something more intimate and haunting—a piece of his underdeveloped lung, the very organ that led to his death.

Tucked away in her crumbling Mexico City estate, this fragment begins to grow, transforming into a carnivorous creature she mothers in secret. 

As Monstrilio evolves, he starts to resemble Santiago, but the dark instincts that fuel his survival become impossible to ignore. Blinded by grief, his parents overlook the dangerous toll his existence takes on those around them as chilling events begin to unfold.

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An aspiring writer, Leah awaits her chance to enter the professional writing scene with her first-pitched short story. Surrounded by a warm and beautiful community of fellow writers, they are surprised and worried when they discover that Leah has started a fast and furious relationship with Charlie, a man who is newly navigating recovery from addiction. 

Charlie exudes boyish charm and charisma with a fully fleshed, big-hearted family offering continued support through his trials. Much like Leah, you are drawn into the attraction of what this family represents and the newness of it all. 

But as Charlie's behavior becomes increasingly bewildering, Leah's alarm bells begin to ring that he may not be in a place of active recovery as disclosed.

The novel follows their relationship as it shifts from intoxicating highs to devastating lows, exposing the thin line between love and self-destruction in an unflinching narrative.

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Hill wrote this novel's first chapter as a short story fifteen years before this novel's publication.

It told of an enchanted meet-cute moment where Jack and Elizabeth peek out their apartment complex windows to spy on one another's reflections and ultimately fall in love through this perceived portrait of their everyday lives.

But Hill began to imagine a "what if?" scenario as a book idea where this magical couple is now in their middle-aged years and navigating all the marriage and parenting trials that come with this stage. How does this story change?

Using the couple's project of building a new home together as the story's scaffolding, the novel offers readers a myriad of their midlife marriage nonsense, with circular arguments in their full and blazing glory. We sink deeper and deeper into their past and present as they play the proverbial whack-a-mole in their marital and parenting troubles. 

But, what enhances this literary fiction story is its distinct mixed media experience exploring photography and scientific journals that tie into the couple's respective jobs. I encourage readers to read this on paper or iPad for total immersion.

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I adored this sweeping historical fiction story about a man who retreats to a solitary life in the Arctic Circle. He finds he is never alone as he finds unexpected companionship in good friends, a loyal dog, and a surprise visitor that upends his world. 

In this poignant debut, a mining accident disfigures Sven Ormson, who retreats to an uninhabited fjord in the Arctic Circle to escape society's reactions. 

As he struggles to survive the harsh conditions, he unexpectedly finds companionship with a Finnish trapper and a Scottish geologist, who bring excitement to his otherwise quiet life. However, as the years go by, the arrival of a relative forces Sven to confront the possibility of living a different kind of life.

This book is for you if you love introverted, bookish, and surprisingly funny characters. I never want to play Nathaniel Ian Miller in Scrabble- his richly descriptive language is what made this novel a standout.

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I've read and loved all of Liz Moore's novels for different reasons, but this one was such a standout that we had to choose it for our book club year.

After an unexpected separation from her father, Ada finds solace in the evenings by immersing herself in the AI system her programmer father meticulously crafted.

This chatbot becomes a source of comfort and intrigue, but the more Ada uses it, the more she realizes that her father has placed special messages just for her within its code.

This literary mystery spans 451 pages and uncovers different eras and technological challenges throughout the generations. It's a well-researched and thought-provoking novel about the early days of AI in the 1980s with a well-plotted twist at the end.

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This novel memorably begins with Amadeo Padilla, who is determined to redeem himself when he plays Jesus in a Good Friday procession.

But as his teenage daughter Angel shows up pregnant, their dysfunctional family is forced to confront the realities of their generational scars.

The father struggles with alcoholism, the daughter with the new role of motherhood, and the grandmother faces a terminal illness diagnosis that she's kept from her family.

Set in New Mexico, the author builds a fictional town that the reader can see unfold on each page that had many of our book club members transfixed.

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Picture it: you have finally bought your dream beach property, and a week after you move in, a Category Five hurricane passes through, destroying your house in its path. 

A news crew comes to cover your story, and the anchorman offers you a place to stay until you can get back on your feet. It is undoubtedly a strange offer from a perfect stranger, and that, my friends, is the beginning of the category five hurricane YOU will be on as a reader. 

To tell you where this story goes would rob you of the unforgettable experience. Dermansky manages to use the darkest humor that made me laugh and shake my head at times.

Cleo, a young painter, shares a meet-cute moment with a successful businessman named Frank. She's facing a bigger dilemma, though, and requires a Green Card. A relationship with Frank offers both the steadiness that her artistic life lacks and a permanent residence in the States. 

Readers follow the two as they take the marriage plunge, experiencing the highs of new love, the monotony in the middle, and then what it feels like to fall out of love. 

Each chapter is a month, and the observations of family and friends round out the story as they, too, observe this relationship and try to forge their own in different ways. 

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This sweeping saga covers several generations of a Korean family in Japan and their moving cultural struggles over the years.

The story begins in the early 1900's with the unplanned pregnancy of a Korean girl, named Sunja. She faces a lot of humiliation when she discovers she isn't the only one who has captured her lover's eye.

But, when her path crosses with a tubercular minister, he offers to marry her and bring her to Japan to start a new life as thanks for helping him through his difficult illness.

The story then unfolds as generation after generation deals with their own cultural challenges, the discrimination they must face, and the poverty that threatens to take everything away from them.

Lee's writing is gorgeous and weaves this tapestry of characters very well.  At almost 500 pages, this one is a bit of a commitment, but I finished it in just a few short days because I had to know what would happen to these characters.

After you finish, you can stream the Panchinko TV series on Apple+.

Jude, a successful litigator, harbors unspoken childhood trauma that shadows his friendships with three college friends in New York City.

His incredible company, a friendship masterfully told, makes these raw moments even slightly bearable, a circle that never gives up on Jude, even when he feels most broken.

Readers should know that the brutal and violent passages are quite unbearable. I would put the book down and walk away for a bit or find myself holding my breath or weeping uncontrollably for the beautifully broken Jude.

But, the writing is so brave and so beautifully descriptive that I have held these fictional people in my heart since I shut the book. This novel is, certainly, polarizing among readers, but I'm grateful for the friendship lessons it taught me.

Barbara Kingsolver's novel is a modern odyssey infused with the rugged, defiant spirit of Appalachia that offers readers a bold and soulful homage to Charles Dickens's David Copperfield.

What struck me the most is how she nails a memorable voice to Demon orphaned by circumstance and tethered to a breathtaking and brutal landscape. Readers will find themselves sinking into a labyrinth of problems, including unhealthy foster care environments, the unyielding grip of poverty, and the opioid crisis that rocked this community. 

But Kingsolver doesn't just borrow Dickens' themes; she reinvents them to expose the raw nerves of today's America and ask us to examine our knee-jerk reactions to rural communities and systems that fail so many. 

Ellie Black had it all figured out—a motel party would raise enough money for a new phone.

But after stepping outside to relieve herself, she vanished without a trace for two years.

When Ellie is finally found, she's malnourished, traumatized, and refuses to speak about what happened. As her family struggles to help her adjust to life again, Detective Chelsea Calhoun is determined to uncover the truth.

Admittedly, her drive to solve the case is personal—her own sister disappeared years ago, and Ellie's return stirs up long-buried emotions.

But the closer Chelsea gets to the truth, the darker the mystery becomes, leading to shocking revelations about Ellie's time away.

Dark, compelling, and full of unexpected twists, this is a gorgeously atmospheric police procedural novel to sink your teeth into. I loved discovering that this is the first book in a planned series!

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Jane's life has unraveled—her career as a respected archivist is gone, her marriage is crumbling, and she's grieving the recent loss of her estranged mother.

Tasked with selling her mother's hoarded belongings, Jane finds herself back in the Maine town she left behind, where the past haunts her at every turn.

When a wealthy homeowner seeks Jane's expertise to investigate strange occurrences in her newly renovated historic property, Jane tackles a research project that explores the home's unsettling history.

With ghostly apparitions, long-buried secrets, and ties to the Shaker and Indigenous communities, Jane's two-week assignment turns into a chilling mystery that could reshape her future.

This was a powerful exploration of addiction, family, and the legacy of stolen land.

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This novel felt like a guilty pleasure read. It blends White Lotus with an American Horror Story set-up in this sinister haunted house page-turner.

For Anna Pace, family vacations have two rules: tread lightly and survive. What starts as a dreamy getaway quickly spirals into something much darker when strange noises echo through the night, the locals issue unsettling warnings, and the villa's shadowy past begins to creep in.

This novel is filled with unlikeable characters, but Anna's prickly behavior turns this story onto its head when she refuses to give in to what's been creeping into her life.

I cackled at the ending and loved Thorne's descriptive setting.

This breathtaking story is my favorite Kristen Hannah novel as she takes readers into the unforgiving wilderness of 1970s Alaska.

When former POW Ernt Allbright returns from the Vietnam War, he is a changed man. His erratic behavior threatens to unravel the fragile fabric of his family. So, in a desperate bid for a fresh start, he uproots his wife and thirteen-year-old daughter, Leni, to live off the grid in a remote landscape filled with beauty and danger.

As they confront the relentless challenges of Alaska's brutal winters and their father's increasing volatility, Leni must navigate a treacherous path between loyalty to her family and the fight for her own identity.

Hannah writes so eloquently about this impossible marriage and the honest struggle of a Vietnam veteran. While this takes some Lifetime movie turns, I found it to be deeply satisfying. Julia Whelan, as always, offers impeccable narration.

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In the 1970s, thirteen-year-old Barbara Van Lear is sent to her family's remote summer camp. Her rebellious attitude and punk style are at odds with her wealthy, prestigious lineage.

Under the guidance of her camp counselor, Tracey, Barbara makes an unusual request—to leave camp every night and return before morning, her destination a mystery.

But when Barbara vanishes one night while the camp counselor is out, things take a dramatic turn for the everyone involved.

With a serial killer recently escaping from a nearby prison and the dark woods closing in, the search for Barbara uncovers more than just her secrets- it's a Pandora's box of family fun.

Moore's novel blends a slow-burn mystery that has more than satisfied Liz Moore's fans. I recommend doing this novel in paper format as the timeline shifts can be a lot to track!

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In a small Missouri town, Patch, born with one eye, finds solace in pirate tales spun by his mother to ease the harshness of his reality. His only anchor is his childhood best friend, Saint, a bright and bookish girl who brings stability to his world.

But their lives are torn apart when Patch attempts to save a local girl from a notorious serial killer, only to find himself captured.

In the darkness of the killer's basement, Patch forms an unlikely bond with another girl held captive, vowing to protect her, though he's never seen her face. This promise haunts him for decades.

From the Vietnam War to the 1990s, Whitaker's atmospheric, heart-wrenching novel offers readers a twisting police procedural that has landed a spot in my favorite books of the year list.

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I never thought I'd be enraptured as much by West Virginia, but I assure you that you will want to visit after reading this cozy fantasy read.

Two boys go missing during an end-of-school field trip to Red Crow State Forest. They have been gone so long that people no longer refer to them as "missing" but only as "lost."  The boys are wearing pants six inches too short, no shirts, and no shoes, which is unseasonably strange for November. 

This set-up pulls the reader into an enchanted portal to another world with these beautiful characters. You'll love uncovering where the boys have been, what holds them to this world now, and why they feel called to return to this place.

Readers should know that this novel breaks the third wall with narration, which enhanced the reading experience!

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On the eve of her daughter's wedding, June Reid's life is completely devastated when a shocking disaster takes the lives of her daughter, her daughter's fiancé, her ex-husband, and her boyfriend, Luke—her entire family, all gone in a moment. And June is the only survivor.

Alone and directionless, June drives across the country, away from her small Connecticut town. In her wake, a community emerges, weaving a beautiful and surprising web of connections through shared heartbreak.

Clegg ambitiously illuminates how interwoven we are as people in this beautiful and haunting story of a town tragedy and the people left behind.

Although the sheer amount of characters in this novel can feel overwhelming, readers become detectives as each person is woven into another. You are also reminded that even in chance meetings with others, you can play an influential part in someone else's story.

This backlist novel was longlisted for the Man Booker Prize & Bill Clegg joined the site for an interview to discuss his fascinating process for this novel that you can dive into when you finish.

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Not only is this novel a fascinating look at prisoners on death row, but the author, Rene Denfeld, was a death penalty investigator. She uses this background well to plot out the corruption of the prison world and what an investigator does to present facts about a death row inmate before going to trial.

In this moving novel set within the confines of a death row prison, the story follows the perspectives of an inmate known as "the man" and a female investigator who seeks to uncover the truth behind the stories of those condemned to die.

The inmate finds escape in his books and in reimagining life around him, taking readers through a fantastical atmospheric story. Though he is confined in a cell, we discover that he sees visions of golden horses running beneath the prison, heat flowing like molten metal from their backs, and the devastating violence of prison life.

Digging into a killer's background, the investigator uncovers contorting truths that challenge familiar notions of victim and criminal, innocence and guilt, honesty and corruption, and reveals many secrets of her own.

It's a haunting and graphic story about prison violence, but it was such a standout debut that I've never forgotten it. My interview with Rene Denfeld reveals more about how she crafted this story.

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This novel offers a spellbinding audiobook experience that made it a standout in my audiobook life- it's the perfect accompaniment to a jigsaw puzzle.

Seventeen-year-old Alice and her mother have spent their lives on the run, constantly dodging the streak of bad luck that seems to haunt them.

But when Alice's estranged grandmother—an elusive author of cult-classic tales—dies in her mysterious estate, their luck takes a dire turn.

Alice's mother is kidnapped by a figure from the Hinterland, a cruel supernatural realm inspired by her grandmother's stories, leaving behind a chilling warning for Alice to stay away from the Hazel Wood.

Ignoring her mother's advice, Alice launches a perilous quest to find the magical Hazel Wood, accompanied by Ellery Finch, a classmate and die-hard fan of her grandmother's work. As you may guess, secrets are uncovered and truths revealed.

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In a quiet town, the brutal murder of Catherine Clare leaves her husband, George, as the prime suspect.

But as the investigation unfolds, so do the dark layers of the couple's life, revealing a deteriorating marriage, a farmhouse steeped in mystery, and George's chilling double life.

With masterful prose, Elizabeth Brundage turns the home itself into a living, breathing character, intensifying the unsettling atmosphere for the reader.

Elizabeth Brundage joined us to share more about the real unsolved murder that inspired her to write this novel and the riveting process into her research for this work.

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Eowyn Ivey's debut novel was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize and is one of my all-time favorite magical realism books.

After reading it a second time this winter to prepare for our 2024 book club year, I can confirm that the book still resonates.

Jack and Mabel, struggling with the grief of losing their child, undertake a homesteading journey in Alaska to start anew. One night, they sculpt a child out of snow. But, to their surprise, a magical girl who resembles their imagined snow child appears on their doorstep.

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If you enjoy a stunning audiobook experience, this novel features a multi-cast narration that enhances the reading journey. It's the kind of book you can easily finish in one afternoon.

In 2019, Kate escaped her abusive partner in London and found solace in Weyward Cottage, which had been bequeathed to her by a distant relative.

Surrounded by nature's embrace, Kate unravels the cottage's secrets, tracing back to the witch-hunting period of the 16th century and exploring the hidden, surprising legacy of her great-aunt.

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Cooper and his daughter live off the grid in a remote Appalachian cabin, hiding from the world. When a stranger

arrives, their fragile existence is threatened, and the secrets Cooper has kept for years begin to unravel.

This taut, atmospheric thriller combines the tension of survivalist fiction with a deep emotional core, that I highly recommend as an audiobook experience! The ending was so satisfying to this story!

This emotional debut novel follows three generations of Vietnamese American women grappling with the death of their matriarch, Minh.

As Minh's granddaughter, Ann faces a crossroads in her seemingly perfect life, she returns home to Florida to help her estranged mother clean out the estate.

But, when they begin cleaning out the rundown manor, they unravel some long-buried secrets in the Banyan House.

Through Minh's perspective, readers are given a cinematic snapshot into the everyday life of people surrounded by the harrowing hardships of the Vietnam War that builds a deeper connection to her character, even though she is gone.

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This novel offers readers a masterful blending of dystopian fiction and magical realism that kept me on the edge of my seat from start to finish.

As a hurricane approaches, Kirby, his pregnant wife Frida, and their two sons, Flip and Lucas, brace for impact. However, when Flip and Lucas go missing before the storm hits, their father sets out to find them amidst the dangerous winds.

The reader follows the story through Wanda's eyes as she grows up, adapting to the changing landscape and finding a community that chooses to stay behind.

The moving landscape transforms from a devastated area to a lush tropical paradise, exploring the impact of climate change on our world in a fresh and pivotal way.

It would be perfect for any book club discussion!

This beautifully evocative story offers a gorgeous exploration on loneliness.

Sara, a skilled bartender who ran away from home at sixteen, and Emilie, a florist struggling with her own identity, cross paths at a high-end Los Angeles restaurant. Though their connection is brief, the novel focuses on their individual journeys to heal and grow before finding each other.

Lacour's lush descriptions of food, drinks, and the moody restaurant atmosphere immerse readers in a sensory-rich experience that forever imprinted on my heart.

Be sure to have something delicious to eat and drink while you read this one!

Truly, any Ethan Joella novel could be on this list, as the writer shines in his strong sense of place and character development, which make every person in a small town feel like someone you might encounter in real life. However, this story of found family has been my favorite from the writer.

Three strangers—each grappling with profound loss—find themselves in a small coastal town where their lives unexpectedly intertwine.

As they each confront their grief, long-buried secrets come to the surface, and readers discover their surprising interconnectedness. It's a quiet, meditative examination that is a cozy addition to any book club book stack.

We were so lucky to discuss this book with the author and host him on the podcast!

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Church's memorable debut is an atmospheric, heartbreaking historical fiction novel set in 1935 North Carolina that reminded me of many of my favorite childhood classics growing up.

When Leah is orphaned and sent to live with the wealthy Griffin family, her life is upended as she's forced into servitude and subjected to the cruelty of Mrs. Griffin.

Against the illuminating backdrop of the state's eugenics program, Leah's struggles and Church's surprising familial ties to these types of cases showcase the resilience of many girls in the face of societal injustice.

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After a tragic accident leaves her husband in a coma, Jill is forced to keep her family together in the unforgiving Maine landscape.

As she struggles to maintain normalcy, their isolated life reveals cracks in the facade, and dark family secrets emerge.

I devoured this slow-burn story filled with sparse, gentle prose, but one thing that makes it stand out is the way it showcases mothering teens. I wish we had more books with that in it.

One gorgeous passage reads, "Being a mother isn't anything like I thought it would be. It's harder. Better. More confusing. Shorter. Longer."

Isn't that the truth?

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Persephone returns to the lakeside cottage where she spent her childhood summers, hoping to reconnect with Sam, the boy she once loved. As they rebuild their friendship, past betrayals resurface, threatening to unravel the idyllic memories of their youth.

The seaside cottage novel alternates between past and present, exploring their friendship from awkward teenage years to adulthood as they are reunited after years of being estranged.

I appreciated how Fortune's retelling of what could feel like a YA book feels so sophisticated and steamy. It's a grown-up coming-of-age story that any reader can immerse themselves in. 

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A magical, nocturnal circus, filled with breathtaking illusions and dazzling performances, appears without warning. Behind the scenes, two rival magicians are locked in a deadly game, and only one can emerge victorious.

Need I say more?

With lush descriptions and a rich atmosphere, this novel blends fantasy and suspense, where the boundaries between reality and magic blur in thrilling ways. It was a thrill to read it as a community read in our town!

This atmospheric story immerses you in eerie woods where an author has gone missing and a cult-like community thrives.

In this novel, commune members are instructed not to cross the border, as doing so could spread disease to their community. However, someone has been testing this theory with surprising results.

Each character will uncover that this forest holds many secrets, including those that could reveal their past.

We were so lucky to host Meg Shaffer in conversation on the Book Gang podcast TWICE! Be sure to tune in to discover more about the literary seminar with Richard Russo that refined this story idea.

In West Virginia, two boys go missing during an end-of-school field trip to Red Crow State Forest. They have been gone so long that people no longer refer to them as "missing" but only as "lost."  The boys are wearing pants six inches too short, no shirts, and no shoes, which is unseasonably strange for November. 

Readers uncover an entirely enchanted portal to another world with these beautiful characters. The world-building is light but offers a gorgeous love story with gorgeous surprises as you uncover where the boys have been, what holds them to this world now, and why they feel called to return. 

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Once a powerful witch, Sera Swan lost her magic after a resurrection spell gone wrong.

Now running an inn with her resurrected aunt and a talking fox, Sera stumbles upon an ancient spellbook that could restore her powers—if she can team up with Luke Larsen, a frosty historian and former one-night stand.

Full of magic, mischief, and unexpected cozy romance, Sera's journey shows that the best magic might just be the quirky family she's found.

Release Date- 29 April 2025

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Tao is a fortune teller who only deals in "small" fortunes—simple predictions about weather, love, and livestock—because she knows too well that bigger fortunes lead to more significant consequences.

But Tao's solitary life changes when she's roped into a search for a lost child by a reformed thief and an ex-mercenary.

Joined by an adventure-seeking baker and a slightly magical cat, she is now forced to confront the shadows of her past. As danger looms, she must decide if she will risk everything for the family she never thought she could have.

Release Date- 5 November 2024

In the third installment of the Emily Wilde series, the brilliant but prickly scholar Emily finds herself in her most perilous adventure yet—as queen of a faerie realm.

Alongside her fiancé, the enigmatic Wendell Bambleby, Emily is swept into the treacherous politics of Faerie as they seize the throne of Wendell's long-lost kingdom.

But a deadly curse, left by Wendell's vengeful stepmother, threatens their reign. To save their new home, Emily must use all her faerie lore while navigating her own doubts about being a queen in this dazzling and dangerous world.

Release Date- 11 February 2025

In this upcoming summer release, Vivian finds herself navigating the chaotic world of magical New England aristocracy after her kindergartner, Aria, is bitten by a werewolf.

As they settle into their new life, Vivian faces a whirlwind of challenges—from choosing the right sacrificial dagger and managing the demands of a PTA that includes sirens and fire-wielding parents to confronting the terrifying trials of magical school.

Release Date- 27 May 2025

Readers rejoiced that The House in the Cerulean Sea sequel has finally hit shelves.

In this next installment in the Cerulean Chronicles series, Arthur Parnassus has created a loving home for six extraordinary kids alongside his partner Linus.

But, when the government demands Arthur share his traumatic past, their true intent is clear: to enforce rigid rules and take the children away.

But Arthur and Linus know their children are brave, kind, and ready to stand against those who would suppress their magic. With the arrival of a new housemate, their found family learns even more about love and resilience.

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In this cottagecore book, Kiela, a reclusive librarian with a magically sentient spider plant as her only companion, escapes a burning library and a brewing revolution with armfuls of stolen spellbooks.

Fleeing to her childhood island home, she's determined to keep to herself—until a nosy, charming neighbor and a little forbidden magic lead her to open a secret spellshop filled with enchanting jams.

Durst is a seasoned author with over twenty-five books for adults and this slow-burn romantasy has been another big hit with readers.

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When reclusive E. discovers something extraordinary outside her underwater home, she exchanges letters with renowned scholar Henerey Clel.

Their shared passion for the ocean grows into a deep love, leading them to uncover a mystery from the depths that could transform their world.

But when a seaquake destroys E.'s home and the pair vanish, their siblings, Sophy and Vyerin, must piece together the clues left behind to solve their disappearance—and uncover secrets that could change everything.

"He woke up with no eyebrows and no idea how he'd gotten into such a position," is certainly a fresh way to start a story.

In this novel, Gav wakes up in a chaotic wizard's workshop with no memories, eyebrows, or a clue about why he's now the infamous Dread Lord Whomever.

Stuck in a castle full of goblins and a locked-up princess, he must navigate the absurdities of his weirdly dark legacy while piecing together his past.  

I was craving a book like Bridgerton when I dug into this novel this summer, and loved this swoony passage that says it all, "I have known many human beings with a full soul to their name who do not have half so much compassion or practicality as you".

Theodora Ettings, cursed by a faerie, has lost her ability to feel fear, embarrassment, or joy, leaving her prone to scandal.

Determined to navigate the London Season quietly, her plans go awry when she crosses paths with Lord Elias Wilder, the eccentric and impossibly talented Lord Sorcier of England, who offers to help restore her missing emotions.

As she gets drawn deeper into the world of magicians and faeries, she must juggle her curse, her growing connection with the least-liked man in society, and the intrigue of high society itself.

If you love the story, you can continue the Regency Faerie Tales Series with the next two books Ten Thousand Stitches and Longshadow.

This low-stakes cozy fantasy novel lowered my blood pressure to dangerous levels and is a beautiful entry point for any reader craving a sweet reading escape.

Tired of battle and bloodshed, Viv the orc retires to open a coffee shop in a sleepy town, where she faces challenges from local businessmen and magical foes alike.

The town's vivid descriptions, from the delectable bakery treats to the fragrant air, provide readers with an immersive reading experience.

Mika Moon has always lived by the rule: keep your magic hidden and stay away from other witches. Her only outlet is posting playful videos online, pretending to be a witch for laughs.

But when she's invited to Nowhere House to help three young witches control their powers, Mika knows she's breaking all the rules.

Yet, the warmth of the house—and the unexpected family she finds there—begins to change her life.

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My husband loved this sweet translated novel that pairs a shy high school student with an outspoken tabby cat.

In this charming novel, Rintaro inherits his grandfather's bookshop and soon launches a magical adventure with the cat Tiger to help rescue books imprisoned by people who have misused or misunderstood their true value.

The story is filled with sweet, quotable, bookish moments, making this a cozy book to unwind in the evenings.

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I devoured this audiobook on a day of meal prepping for my family and loved the author's inspiration garnered from Chinese mythology.

Xingyin, the secret daughter of the Moon Goddess, goes on an epic journey to free her mother from eternal imprisonment. Disguised among mortals, Xingyin must hone her magical skills, navigate treacherous politics, and face powerful foes to reclaim her mother's rightful place in the celestial realm.

With lush world-building, sweeping romance, and a fierce heroine, this debut offers a captivating fantasy that I found perfectly cozy for this book list assignment.

If you fall in love with this one, you can continue this fantasy series with the next two books- Heart of the Sun Warrior & Tales of the Celestial Kingdom.

Lucy Hart, a 26-year-old teacher's aide, dreams of adopting a student who has lost his parents—but financial hardships stand in her way.

Then, an extraordinary opportunity arises: Her favorite childhood author announces a contest for his latest and only copy of a new Clock Island book.

To win, Lucy must outsmart fierce competitors in a race of clever riddles, battling ruthless book collectors and unlocking the secret to making wishes come true. Along the way, she reconnects with the magic of childhood and discovers a few unexpected twists of her own.

You can hear Meg Shaffer in her first interview for this novel on the Book Gang Podcast as we head to Clock Island and discover her favorite island books that inspired her novel.

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This cozy fantasy novella was a book club favorite and a delight on audiobook.

The robots of Panga have decided to leave their jobs and put down their tools, never to be seen again. But, a tea monk's life is upended by the arrival of a robot that has returned, and he won't leave until he can answer this single question, "What Do People Need?"

It's the comforting read I didn't think I needed in a book, particularly in the world's polarizing seasons we have weathered over the last few years. Don't be surprised if you read it every holiday season.

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If you loved The Snow Child this debut Russian fairytale might be your next best bet.

Vasilisa is a spirited young girl who loves the legends of Frost, the blue-eyed winter demon who steals away unwary souls. After her mother dies, Vasilisa's new stepmother bans their household from honoring the protective spirits, causing dark forces to stir.

As danger closes in, Vasilisa must embrace her hidden gifts to protect her family, even if it means defying everyone she holds dear.

Arden's lush, atmospheric writing weaves a magical escape perfect for fairytale lovers.

You can continue this series with the next two books in the Winternight Trilogy-The Girl in the Tower & The Winter of the Witch.

Emily Wilde is a brilliant but socially awkward professor who is documenting the world's faeries for her encyclopaedia.

In a picturesque Scandinavian village, Emily conducts thorough research that takes her into the secretive and enchanting realm of the fae, where danger and wonder exist side by side.

Readers get to soak in Emily's scientific curiosity with a gradually developing romance as her mysterious colleague begins to complicates her life.

This whimsical fantasy adventure follows Sophie Hatter, a young woman cursed by a jealous witch and transformed into an old lady.

Seeking to break the spell, Sophie ventures into the magical realm and finds herself in the company of the enigmatic wizard Howl and his ever-moving castle.

As Sophie navigates the challenges of her new life, she discovers that the castle is filled with surprises, from a fire demon named Calcifer to a host of other magical beings.

You may not know that the Harry Potter books are frequently compared to the works of Diana Wynne Jones. Many of her earlier children's books were out of print, but were re-issued for the young audience whose interest in fantasy and reading was spurred by the series.

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Mona is a 14-year-old wizard whose magic only works with bread, making her an unlikely hero when she discovers a dead body in her bakery.

As evil forces rise, Mona must use her baking-related magic—like summoning gingerbread men and enchanted dough—to protect her city.

This cozy fantasy is ideal for readers who enjoy unique magic systems and crave a little whimsy in their book stack.

This self-published novel has been a huge hit with fans of Legends & Lattes and the entire Miss Percy Guide series is available on Kindle Unlimited.

In this gentle adventure, we meet Miss Mildred Percy, a spinster who has spent her life in quiet obscurity—until a mysterious inheritance pushes her into an adventure with a dragon's egg.

Unprepared for the chaos of raising a dragon in Regency-era England, Mildred must rely on her wit and an eccentric cast of characters to care for the creature, all while dodging scheming villains and her own insecurities.

This heartwarming fantasy brings Linus Baker, a meticulous government caseworker, to an enchanting and unusual orphanage.

As he grows fond of the extraordinary children and their endearing caretaker, the story beautifully explores finding found family in the most unexpected places.

If you need a great audiobook to listen to while you put together jigsaw puzzles this cozy season, I recommend this as a great family audiobook experience!

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When Robin Blyth, a newly appointed government official, accidentally stumbles into a hidden magical society, he's assigned to work with Edwin Courcey, a prickly but brilliant magician.

Together, they unravel a dangerous conspiracy while contending with a sinister curse. As their partnership deepens into a slow-burn romance, the stakes rise.

If you love this story, you can follow the adventures in The Last Binding series by checking out books 2 & 3- A Restless Truth & A Power Unbound.

This new novel inspired our entire reading slump-busting thriller list because I adored it so much.

In this darkly comedic story, Pale Horse, the world's deadliest assassin, has turned over a new leaf and has joined the Assassins Anonymous support group, vowing never to kill again.

But what happens when he's pursuing his redemption story and so many are still out for revenge?

Readers should prepare for deliciously clever plot twists, which we discuss in our patron spoiler-filled episode about the shocking Assassins Anonymous ending Hart crafted!

Luckily, we can expect many more adventures as this is the first book in a planned series and has been optioned for film by Steven Spielberg's team. 

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Phoebe arrives at the luxurious Cornwall Inn, with the intention of ending her life in the gorgeous canopy bed looking out to the seaside, just like in her favorite Victorian novels.

She brings only one dress and her cat's pain pills, which she intends to take with wine and go quietly into the night after the brutal end to her marriage. 

However, she soon discovers that her booked stay is a mistake, as the entire inn was supposed to be reserved only for one lavish wedding party.

Unexpectedly, Phoebe finds herself swept into the wedding preparations and forms heart-to-heart connections with the narcissistic bride and other wedding party attendees leading her to find a new purpose over the week of festivities.

Espach's dialogue is vibrant with charisma, charm, and playful shenanigans, making every page a delight. This clever novel is one of my favorites of the year- I never wanted this story to end. 

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An unlikely friendship is formed through a prison book club, where Harriet leads a group of feisty women through book selections, and they uproariously offer their hilarious feedback.

Although they are not to exchange personal information, when one prisoner is finally released, she finds Harriet out in the real world, where she helps her begin her new life chapter.

But neither could expect that they would form a strange and magical alliance with a man with all the reason in the world not to forgive her crime.

Readers discover the backstory of her prison sentence, but more importantly, they discover the hope forgiveness can offer.

Wood shines in her details, from her scene setting at the book club to the unusual occupations and hobbies she meticulously crafts for her characters. 

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Daniel considers himself a lucky guy even though he's suffered from a debilitating disease since he was a small child.

When a local girl goes missing, Daniel realizes that he may have been the last person to see the girl and the person who may have kidnapped her that day.

He decides to take his story to Reddit, where he begins a conversation with the captor. As he discloses more and more, Daniel is convinced he might be the one to help solve the missing person case.

But it is tough to convince the police that you have valuable information when you can't speak or move. 

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What happens to Nina is revealed quickly in this thriller, but the real tension lies in how a well-connected family's desperate search for answers unravels into a full-blown media circus.

As someone attuned to the exploitative nature of true crime, I found the novel's examination of shifting perspectives, media frenzy, and conspiracy theories razor-sharp. It's a PERFECT book club selection.

This atmospheric story sweeps you into the eerie woods with a missing author and a cult-like community. In this novel, commune members are instructed not to cross the border because doing so could spread disease to their community.

However, someone has been testing this theory for some time with surprising results, and each character will discover that this forest holds many secrets, including those that could unlock their past.

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This historical fiction novel shocked me with its haunting beauty and darkness. Based on the true crime case that inspired Lolita, it pulls back the curtain on the horrors young Sally Horner endured after being abducted in 1948.

Capturing criminals back then is a frustrating process to witness, let alone be a victim of. It takes a strong reader to read this one, and I know Sally's story is going to be imprinted on my heart forever.

Greenwood's poetic writing makes this an emotionally gripping read even in the darkest moments.

It's rare for multiple people to vanish in a neighborhood, but when two women and a six-year-old girl disappear, the mystery only deepens when the child is found eleven years later.

The "whodunit" vibes are pitch-perfect, and I had no idea where the story was going—exactly the kind of fast-paced suspense that reads like a movie.

Local Woman Missing won an Audie Award in 2022.

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A poker game gone awry kicks off a clever, twist-laden caper.

With a narrator who's unreliable in the best kinds of ways, this audiobook, narrated by legendary Julia Whelan, is perfect when you need something sharp and fast-paced to get your head back in the game of reading. 

Published in 2018, this backlist gem stands out as one of the best con artist books I've ever read. It is cinematic in scope and twists.

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If you crave an unforgettable protagonist, Sally Diamond will take you on a wild ride. 

Sally's literal interpretation of her father's dying wishes leads her to do something horrific, but what follows is even more disturbing. 

As Sally uncovers chilling secrets about her past, readers will be riveted until the final page.

Despite the darkness, the way her village embraces her adds an unexpected and touching found family dynamic that makes this one of the most unique thrillers I've read.

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This dark academia thriller feels like a blockbuster movie in book form.

Forget good versus evil—this is a battle between bad and worse, with morally complex characters that made this a guilty pleasure read.

The tension skyrockets as Victor & Eli experiment with near-death experiences to unlock superhuman powers. Reminiscent of Flatliners, Schwab's twist on the superhero genre will have you holding your breath through every gripping scene.

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Exploring the last days of a serial killer through the eyes of those around him is a haunting and thought-provoking book idea.

As Ansel awaits execution, we discover his troubling past, shaped by a complicated childhood and the triggers that led to his violent acts.

Each character, from his mother to a dedicated homicide detective, adds depth to Ansel's story, prompting readers to question their sympathies.

Gwen's disastrous dating life turns dark when her swiped-right matches start turning up dead in their coastal English town. 

This serial killer mystery reveals each new date gone wrong in each chapter, keeping you guessing to who the killer could be.

With plenty of red herrings and laugh-out-loud moments, this book is as fun as a Scream movie—perfect for readers who love a wild ride in their mysteries!

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After a traumatic event, Bonnie Lincoln escapes her reality by recreating the set of the 70s sitcom Three's Company after winning the lottery.

The immersive living experience raises great questions about trauma and escapism, but Bonnie's unlikable nature and inability to evolve did polarize readers.

This unique book journey is not for everyone but may resonate with those who enjoy an immersive, albeit strange, reading experience.

This was one of our most dynamic book club discussions we've had as a group.

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This gripping exposé on the Sackler family and the opioid crisis feels like a thriller, but it's all too real. The storytelling here is immersive, making it perfect for readers who want to get hooked on nonfiction again.

Through three sections, Keefe uncovers the motives of three generations of the family, revealing how well-intentioned beginnings turned into greed and manipulation, leading to widespread abuse of the drug.

We also learn of the stories of those caught in its trap.

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If you are caught up in the horrific headlines with P. Diddy, this YA novel is a chilling exploration on the exploitation of Black women in the music industry. 

When Enchanted, a talented teen, catches the eye of R&B star Korey Fields at a singing contest, she is thrilled to receive VIP tickets and an opportunity to be mentored by him.

However, what begins as a dream come true quickly spirals into a nightmare as Korey's controlling and abusive behavior escalates. 

ANY book by Tiffany D. Jackson will pull you out of a reading slump, but I hope this is a great introduction to her work.

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A dystopian theme park where android princesses dream of freedom—sounds like a fairytale gone wrong.

But, following a murder accusation against one princess in the park, the clues drop in for readers like a perfect, page-turning puzzle.

Fans of Westworld will love this thrilling take on what happens when we trust technology a bit too much.

When life hands you a canceled couples' cruise, you might just find your true soulmate—yourself.

In Natural Selection, Sophia Othonos sets sail solo to the Galápagos, where the only thing more breathtaking than the scenery is the realization that she’s been waiting for the wrong guy to make her feel whole.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This is a short story selection.

In The Spy Coast, retirement is anything but peaceful for former CIA operative Maggie Bird.

Nestled in the quaint seaside town of Purity, Maine, Maggie’s quiet life is shattered when a body appears in her driveway—a deadly reminder that her past hasn’t forgotten her.

With a killer on the loose, Maggie and her old espionage buddies, the “Martini Club,” must dust off their spy skills and outmaneuver their enemies.

But as the local police chief closes in, Maggie faces a dangerous game where one wrong move could destroy everything she’s fought to protect.

In Family Reservations, the heat in the kitchen is nothing compared to the simmering tension in the Winter family.

Maren Winter, a legendary restaurateur, is nearing the end of her reign, and her three ambitious daughters are ready to pounce. But when a New Year’s Eve party spirals into chaos, the gloves come off in a cutthroat battle for culinary supremacy.

As ambition and betrayal threaten to tear them apart, these sisters must navigate a tangled web of love, loyalty, and the desire to carve out their own identities—before the entire empire goes up in flames.

In The Other Side of Disappearing, Jess Greene’s life is a careful balance of secrets and sisterly love—until a podcast blows it all apart.

When her younger sister Tegan decides to chase down their long-lost mother, Jess has no choice but to join a cross-country road trip with a true-crime podcast team.

Along the way, they uncover more than just the mystery of a notorious con man; Jess discovers the courage to confront her past and an unexpected romance with the charming yet guarded producer, Adam Hawkins.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Be sure to scroll down to the past deals to also score Kate Clayborn's other novel- Georgie All Along!

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In Please Tell Me, when eight-year-old Kathy Stone returns from a year of captivity, the world waits for her story—but Kathy remains silent.

As a child therapist, Robin Hart is determined to help Kathy unlock her memories through play therapy.

But what starts as innocent play turns chilling when Kathy begins reenacting real unsolved murders with her dolls.

The deeper Robin delves, the more she fears Kathy might not only hold the key to past crimes but also to future horrors.

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In A Girl Called Samson, Amy Harmon weaves a spellbinding tale of courage, love, and defiance.

Deborah Samson, born into a life of hardship, dreams of freedom in a world that offers her none.

Disguising herself as a soldier, she risks everything to fight in the American Revolutionary War. Amidst the brutal realities of battle,

She not only fights for her country’s future but also for her own identity and a love she never expected to find.

Paging hockey romance fans! In Center Ice, hockey’s wild card, just traded to the Boston Rebels, is about to face his biggest challenge yet—and it’s not on the ice.

When he reconnects with Audrey, his former college fling, he’s stunned to learn he’s a father. With his NHL career on the line and family obligations pulling him in all directions, he’s caught between the game he’s dedicated his life to and the family he never knew he needed.

Will he skate toward the future he thought he wanted, or will love and fatherhood take him in a whole new direction?

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In this hlghly-rated novel, Palmer Sinclair’s life has always been about control—until a devastating diagnosis shatters her world.

Faced with the unthinkable, she creates a bucket list, determined to savor the life she has left.

Enter Kent Wagner, an army medic turned paramedic, who’s been quietly captivated by Palmer for years.

When fate throws them together, he offers to help her tick off each dream on her list. What follows is a heartfelt journey of love, loss, and the profound beauty of the small moments that make life worth living.

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In Heirlooms and Homicide, Henrietta's quaint antique store in Hearts Grove becomes the backdrop for a chilling mystery.

When a prized antique box is linked to a missing girl and a mysterious death, she finds herself in the middle of a deadly puzzle.

With secrets lurking in every corner of her shop, she must unravel the clues before more lives are at stake. Dive into this charming cozy mystery, where the past holds deadly secrets and every antique tells a story—if only Henrietta can decipher it before time runs out.

This is the first book in the Hearts Grove Mystery Series.

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In 1931, Lilly Blackwood is stolen from her attic prison and sold to a circus, where she finds strength and friendship amid cruelty.

Decades later, Julia Blackwood returns to her family’s estate, only to uncover hidden truths about Lilly and their family’s dark past.

As Julia unravels the mysteries of Blackwood Manor, she confronts painful legacies and seeks to heal her fractured family.

This novel received a starred review from Library Journal who described it as a “Perfect for book clubs and readers who admired Sara Gruen’s Like Water for Elephants.”

Longtime personal assistant Georgie Mulcahy's world is turned upside down, propelling her back to her hometown.

Encountering a diary from her teenage years, Georgie is inspired to embrace a new direction.

Joined by an unexpected accomplice, they embark on a journey to let go of the past and discover that what truly matters might be right beside them.

This highly-rated novel features an unexpected mother-daughter bond in this story of second chances.

Jude is a widowed father who proposes to Avery, which would yield a happy moment for the couple. But, Avery is on edge, wary of family, doubtful of happy endings, and afraid to leap due to her secrets.

Before committing to a new life, she returns to her childhood farm in North Carolina, unexpectedly accompanied by Jude’s teenage daughter, Elle.

As Avery and Elle navigate their pasts and present, they form an unexpected bond that gives them both the courage to move forward.

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After her parents' death, Beth Harmon is sent to an orphanage where she learns chess from the janitor and discovers her talent for the game.

Desperate to pursue her passion, she resorts to stealing money to enter tournaments and becomes addicted to tranquilizers as she discovers their positive effects on her game.

As her skills on the chessboard grow, so does her dependency, creating a dual battle against addiction and formidable opponents.

Be sure to stream the stunning Queen's Gambit adaptation on Netflix after you finish the book!

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When Leah and her husband moved to France, they dreamed of self-sufficiency. However, the reality is far from idyllic: three hours of digging barely yield a single straggly carrot, her teenage daughter is acting up, and her husband keeps finding excuses to disappear.

Seeking solace, Leah joins a new book club but discovers the group is filled with endearing misfits.

The quirky cast of book club characters and the cozy countryside of France is why this novel has been a hit with many reviewers.

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Claire Cook's glamorous façade hides a tumultuous reality.

As she plans to escape her controlling husband, a chance airport encounter leads to a daring ticket switch with another desperate woman.

However, a fateful plane crash propels Claire into a new existence, assuming a stranger's identity and confronting the hidden secrets that come with it.

Enter a Freaky Friday switch of identities and watch each of them try to foster new paths.

Of course, not all is as it seems and one might find themselves in just as much danger.

This 5-star thriller is a fast page-turner and should be at the top of your list, especially if you are in a summer reading slump.

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Taylor Swift's songs inspire this Booktok romance novel.

The story follows Meredith as she navigates a summer wedding on Martha's Vineyard, where their family plays an annual assassin game.

When an alliance with a charming groomsman draws her attention away from the family's game, Meredith must decide between winning the game in honor of her late sister's legacy or risking her heart.

This powerful collection of short stories is written by bestselling historical fiction authors. The stories offer readers a chance to meet remarkable women who defied barriers in art, war, science, love, and justice.

There are 7 new novellas in the Blaze Collection, and this is one of the highest rated from the 7 books offered.

In this one-hour mystery, Frances Gleser Lee defies societal expectations to become the mother of forensic science.

As a new Harvard instructor, she challenges six male students to solve a murder using her accurate crime scene dioramas, proving that every detail matters in solving a crime.

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In this standalone short story, readers can continue through the life of Bubbles from Johnson's novel, House of Eve.

Bubbles, a single mother in segregated Virginia, defies her family's expectations and embraces motherhood despite societal pressures.

With courage and determination, she escapes from the home she was sent to and finds strength in her talent for singing, using it to provide a better life for her daughter.

While connected to her historical fiction novel, you can still read this short story from the Blaze Collection independently.

Louisa May Alcott's timeless classic follows the heartwarming tale of the four March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—as they navigate the trials and triumphs of sisterhood, love, and coming of age during the Civil War era.

Grab a digital copy so you can highlight all the sage advice from Marmee!

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If you have caught the bug for books like The Women, Skenandore shares her unique medical background as a nurse in this historical fiction novel.

Forced to flee from the law, she cunningly infiltrates Bellevue Hospital's nursing program, where she discovers unexpected compassion and purpose.

Skenandore skillfully crafts a plot with historical accuracy and brings to life the evolution of the nursing field.

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Note that the entire The Improbable Meet-Cute Collection is also available on Prime Audio and can be borrowed as part of your ten Prime library options.

Just in time for Valentine's Day, this 61-page short story is the perfect pick-me-up while you wait for the release of Just for the Summer!

Holly, a hospice nurse, is now bedside for her grandmother's final moments.

On Valentine's Day, a mistaken note left on her windshield sparks a charming exchange between Holly and the sender, leading to an unexpected connection.

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This 101-page novella is among the highest rated from The Improbable Meet-Cute collection.

An endearing email exchange develops between two people who serendipitously connect on Valentine's Day starting in 2014.

As their correspondence evolves it becomes an annual tradition, offering glimpses into their lives, dreams, and growing connection.

If you fall in love with Christina Lauren's writing, be sure to check our The Best One Bed Trope Books for Romance Lovers for more books from this writing duo.

Amid World War II, architect Lucien Bernard faces a dangerous commission in Nazi-occupied Paris: designing a secret hiding place for a Jewish man.

As he becomes entangled in the web of deception and moral dilemmas, Lucien's actions take on a personal dimension, forcing him to confront the actual cost of resistance and the value of human lives.

This historical fiction novel was my first book club selection. I loved this book so much that I interviewed the author, and you can read that conversation when you finish.

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In search of their dream home, newlyweds Tricia and Ethan become trapped in a remote manor during a brutal winter storm.

As they explore, Tricia stumbles upon a hidden room filled with audio transcripts from Dr. Adrienne Hale's patients, leading her down a chilling path of revelations.

The haunting puzzle of Dr. Hale's disappearance unfolds with each tape, culminating in a final cassette that exposes the spine-tingling truth.

Readers craving a spooky escape will devour this new 58-page short story from horror writer Joe Hill.

Willy's desperate yearning for a child takes a nightmarish turn when he's loaned a decrepit baby stroller to cart his groceries home.

When he hears the eerie coos of an impossible baby stir, Willy faces unsettling questions about the price of his wishes coming true.

This is part of the newly issued Creature Feature Amazon Original Story Collection for Halloween. Browse them all, including a new Josh Malerman book!

Readers craving a cozy mystery will delight in this first novel in A Secret, Book, and Scone Society series.

In a quaint North Carolina town, Miracle Books is where Nora Pennington prescribes the perfect novels to mend wounded souls.

Nora forms the Secret, Book, and Scone Society when a businessman's mysterious death shakes the community.

As they unveil a web of corruption, they uncover their purpose in this small town.

In Washington, D.C., Sarah Morgan excels as a powerful defense attorney, while her husband, Adam, struggles as an unsuccessful writer.

As their relationship falters due to Sarah's demanding career, Adam becomes entangled in a passionate affair with Kelly Summers.

Shocking events unfold when Kelly is discovered murdered, thrusting Sarah into her most challenging case: defending her husband against accusations of his mistress's brutal killing.

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.

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.

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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.

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In this new historical fiction novel, two timelines reveal the enduring power of books and the secrets that can bind families set on the beachy shores of Martha's Vineyard.

In 1942, the Smith sisters start a wartime book club for women, finding hope amidst loss—until a German soldier washes ashore, bringing a chilling connection to their brother's fate.

Decades later, artist Mari arrives to uncover the truth behind her family's wartime legacy, now guided by a mysterious painter with ties to the past.

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In 1960s suburban Virginia, four housewives form a book club that changes their lives forever.

Margaret, Viv, and Bitsy appear to have it all by society’s standards—but beneath the surface, each feels unfulfilled and uncertain. When their lively new neighbor Charlotte introduces them to The Feminine Mystique, their conversations shift from literature to life, and they discover shared longings and hidden strengths.

Release Date- 22 April 2025

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.

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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.

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.

Readers will revel in Lombardo's finely crafted sentence structure, marinate in her character descriptions, and take in a slice-of-life scene in a way you haven't before in this midlife story.

We are drawn into a mystery involving two friends whose friendship fell apart years ago. They unexpectedly encounter each other at their local grocery store eighteen years later.

Julia and Helen are in their 50s and 80s now, but seeing her friend ignites Julia's memories of her early years of motherhood when she left behind her career as a librarian to pursue a rocky motherhood terrain where she felt untethered and lonely. 

It seems Julia is Helen's latest conquest, a woman who easily collects a merry-go-round of friends and dispenses sage advice with a well-weathered hand after raising five boys. Helen is older, assured, and communal and offers Julia an olive branch when she sees her struggling with her toddler on an outing.

But as quickly as Julia becomes a fixture, she almost as easily slips out of Helen's life when a misstep with a family member challenges not only the friendship but also her marriage.

Despite all odds, growing up in a troubled home with an alcoholic mother and food insecurity, Jane crafted a new life thanks to a school program for at-risk children where teachers flagged her as deserving of an education.

In pursuit of her fresh start, she eventually lands a dream position as an archivist for the Schillinger Library, researching women's history in America. 

But, ten years later, everything fell apart. Jane's addiction to alcohol leads to dismissal from her job, and her marriage is now on shaky ground. Adding to her troubles, her mother passes away from lung cancer, and she's in charge of the daunting task of going through her mother's resale items and hoarded belongings to sell her property. 

She doesn't know that this return will also launch her into a haunting new research project that could change Jane's trajectory.

A shallow, wealthy woman recently renovated a historic home in town that was Jane's reading refuge when she needed to escape her troubled home environment as a high school kid.

The new owner spared no expense in remodeling this historic property to her modern taste, even removing a family cemetery to make way for her dream pool. So, it's not entirely surprising when her son begins to see a ghost visiting him at night.

As these strange events alter the owner's sense of safety, she wants a full investigation into the home's history and Jane is the PERFECT librarian for the job.

Hana Babic has built a quiet life as a librarian in Minnesota, far from the horrors of her past—until her best friend is murdered, and the shadows she's been hiding from resurface.

Once known as the Night Mora, a legendary fighter in war-torn Bosnia, Hana must resurrect her dark alter ego to protect her friend's orphaned grandson and uncover the truth before the killer strikes again.

Allen Eskens is the USA Today-bestselling author of nine novels, including The Life We Bury and Nothing More Dangerous (a past MomAdvice Book Club selection). 

Release Date- 18 February 2025

When librarian Tildy Barrows discovers two exquisite dollhouses hidden within her crumbling San Francisco library, she uncovers a century-old mystery that could save it from ruin.

As she deciphers secrets embedded in the miniatures, Tildy's journey takes her from Belle Époque Paris to Walt Disney's 1950s studio, uncovering stories of ambitious women, wartime survivors, and an astonishing family connection.

Release Date- 1 April 2025

In this locked-room cozy mystery, Tempest's dream project—renovating Gray House Library into a literary tribute to iconic fictional sleuths—becomes the backdrop for a real-life whodunit.

A murder mystery dinner rehearsal ends with a shocking twist: an actor is killed, and the body mysteriously vanishes.

Armed with her grandfather's mouthwatering Scottish-Indian meals and her flair for solving the impossible, dives into a labyrinth of literary-inspired clues. Is the killer reenacting legendary mystery plots? And what secrets lie behind Gray House Library's sliding bookshelves and hidden doors?

This is Book 4 in her Secret Staircase series, and while it can be read solo, seasoned readers recommend reading the whole series to enhance this cozy mystery story.

Release Date- 18 March 2025

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.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

Ailey is born into a wealthy family due to her father's job as a doctor. She's mischievous but a bright student with much promise. Her sister has gone down a very different path, although the two sisters both carry deep secrets that ultimately shape each of their destinies, from relationships to addictions. 

When Ailey later becomes involved in deep research for a dissertation, we, along with this character, uncover layers to her life's story in the library's archives.

The novel intricately traces a lineage from the 1700s to the disbelief that a Black man could ever be our President as we are given shocking reveals to people entrenched in enslavement, to calculated land ownership stealing, and childhood innocence erased.

This novel is not limited to the stories of Black people, though, but also includes the realities of Indigenous people. This element greatly enhances this experience for a reader seeking an understanding of racial dynamics between these three races through these timelines. 

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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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