Summer is often a wonderful season for readers. Holidays, slower days, and new releases tend to come together in ways that make room for longer reading lists and unexpected discoveries. Many readers find themselves assembling eclectic selections that reflect both curiosity and mood.

This particular summer reading list brings together a mix of new releases, older favourites, and chance discoveries. Not all of them have been finished yet, but they represent books I am looking forward to returning to over the coming weeks.

Mariella’s Picks

Siren Says by Jennifer Michelle Herrera

Siren Says is a fantasy romance that has not yet been published. I was kindly sent an advance reader copy by the author, Jennifer Michelle Herrera, in exchange for a review. It had been some time since I last read fantasy, and this novel proved to be an engaging return to the genre.

Beyond its magical elements, the story is grounded in emotional experience. The protagonist, Raven, is shaped by unresolved grief following the death of her mother. The challenges she faces—including magic, monsters, and internal barriers—echo, in a metaphorical sense, the weight of grief in real life.

The novel suggests that experiences which feel intangible in ordinary life can be made visible through fantasy. In that way, it offers a lens for understanding emotions that might otherwise remain difficult to articulate.

Circe by Madeline Miller

Circe, which I first read a few years ago, remains an enduring favourite. Familiarity with the original Greek myths—often marked by cruelty, imbalance, and limited agency for women—makes Madeline Miller’s retelling feel especially resonant.

Retellings do not diminish the originals; rather, they deepen our engagement with them. They create new points of entry and emotional access, allowing readers to revisit familiar stories with renewed understanding.

Revisiting Circe this year offers an opportunity to reflect on those themes again. Where Siren Says explores grief through fantasy, Circe continues to resonate through its exploration of agency and justice within mythic structures.

The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin

This is a reread of Daisy Goodwin’s historical novel, set against a backdrop of transatlantic wealth, social expectation, and ambition. It is a story that lends itself well to revisiting, particularly after time has passed since the initial reading.

Returning to books after several years often changes the reading experience. The narrative remains the same, but the reader brings a different perspective, shaped by time and experience. In that sense, rereading becomes a form of rediscovery.

Steelborn by Taylor J. LaRue

I lucked out with romantic fantasy ARCs this summer. Steelborn by Taylor J. LaRue leans more toward classic heroic fantasy than Siren Says, though its protagonist is a young woman.

We meet Reya, an orphan working for a notorious thief who longs to buy her freedom so she can pursue her true passion: forging weapons. But choosing one’s own path is rarely simple. Sometimes it must be fought for, pursued across kingdoms and through hardship, so that when it is finally won, it is all the more meaningful.

We follow Reya as she strikes bargains with the Magic-born, discovers her own abilities, negotiates with pirates, breaks in—and out—of prison, and gradually realizes that she has unfinished business before she can claim the life she truly wants.

While I found the opening a little slow, by about eighty pages in I could not put it down. Perhaps I’m simply partial to pirates; as a teenager, Pirates of the Caribbean was the first film franchise that truly captivated me.

Steelborn offers a satisfying adventure for readers who enjoy high fantasy, expansive world-building, romance, and genuine stakes. There’s also a healthy dose of morally grey characters. As the first book in a series, it leaves plenty to look forward to. Like Siren Says, it will be published in August.

A Founding Mother by Stephanie Dray & Laura Kamoie

Abigail Adams was one of the most important women to witness the American Revolution. The wife of one president and the mother of another, she contributed greatly to America’s fight for liberty while witnessing the heartbreaking sacrifices it demanded.

Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie have published many novels together that illuminate pivotal moments in American history and bring its remarkable figures to life. This year, the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, seemed the perfect time to encounter Abigail Adams—and her forward-thinking ideas—on a deeper level.

Lauren’s Picks

The Obsessed by Lizzie Buehler

I absolutely love character studies on unhinged characters and The Obsessed seems to be the wild, witty read that I need this summer. Astrid is obsessed with a Russian American novelist Sofiya Sova whose life has similar parallels to her own. Reeling from a difficult breakup, Astrid meets with a fellow Sofiya Sonva fan, Elijah, on Hinge. When she starts to encapsulate a Sova novel plot in her own life, Elijah cuts things off with Astrid. It’s a novel about obsession and desire told from a completely inventive plot angle and I cannot WAIT to read! I just got a copy in from the publisher and I’m equally as obsessed with the cover.

Kitten by Stacey Yu

Why not continue with the theme of obsession? As a borderline obsessive dog mom (I consistently refer to my dog as my biological son and will accept zero criticism about it), I feel like there will be so many relatable aspects of Kitten. Katie is a recent college graduate who is estranged from her mom and struggling to pay her rent. But her new boyfriend is generous and seems to help her out quite a bit, even if he seems controlling at times. When Katie joins her boyfriend for vacation at his parents lake house, she develops a unique bond with his family cat. The bond may or may not borderline on obsessive. I love supporting debut authors, and I can’t wait to read this one! I was approved for an ARC on Net Galley and plan to read in the next few weeks!

Before You Were Anne by Emiko Jean

The author’s debut thriller, The Return of Ellie Black, came out a few years ago and I was completely obsessed! I read it in two days and found it impossible to put down. Now the book to followup The Return of Ellie Black is coming out in September! A woman is murdered and then her daughter goes missing and Detective Chelsey Calhoun is on the case. The woman - Anne Walker - was born on a remote island in Japan under a different name. It appears that she attempted to reinvent herself in Seattle, on the run from someone, or something. I got the ARC from Net Galley and can’t wait to read sometime in August!

East of Eden by John Steinbeck

East of Eden appears to be THE read of the year. In my attempt to read more classic literature (I’ve been a bit scared of classics for no good reason at all), I just picked up a copy from the library. A retelling of the classic biblical story Cain and Abel, I am all for explorations of good vs evil in (A Guardian and A Thief is an EXCELLENT example of this!). It also takes place in the Salinas Valley of California which is an area I know and love.

Mazywood by Tananarive Due

It’s not news to any of my long-term subscribers that The Reformatory is one of my favorite books of all time and was my #1 read last year (although one of the most heartbreaking reads ever and I sobbed for days after finishing). Tananarive Due is the MOST incredible writer, and incorporates so much depth and emotion into her work. She has a new book releasing in September and I almost cried when I got the ARC approval. I think my heart is ready for it.

Let us know in the comments what you’re reading this summer!

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Let me know what’s on your upcoming list and if I missed anything!

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What I’ve Read

#1. Fabulous Bodies by Chuck Tingle

got a real kick out of my Goodreads review for this one. I hated it, but it’s my fault.

July 7

#2. Everything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt by Ben Reeves

Travis is Death in the modern world. He lives an ordinary life with his cat and simple apartment. His one job is to offer people comfort in their final hours of life. He is responsible for maintaining the balance of life, which always ends in death. I feel like this is going to make my sob my eyes out and I am ready for it. Thank you to Avid Readers Press for the ARC!

#3. Country People by Daniel Mason

Pulitzer finalist author has a new book out! I have an ARC and will be reading this week! Country People is about a married man who follows his wife to Vermont upon her job promotion, and finds himself building a new life with new friends and hobbies. It sounds witty and humorous and I can’t wait to read.

#4. Helpless by Jessica Knoll

Faye and Henry were college lovers and then Faye broke Henrys heart. 12 years later, he’s invited her to his remote cabin. The other early reviews are not great and I have an ARC for this one, so we’ll see. Hoping I’ll finish it before it’s release date.

#5. Habits of the Sea by Shea Ernshaw

Ellie returns as an adult to an island she visited when she was 12 that mysteriously. She reencounters a man who seemingly hasn’t aged in the decades since. I’m excited for this one and curious because my Bookstack friend said it was more romance than thriller, so we’ll see! I have an ARC and will be reading this week!

#6. The Great Wherever by Shannon Sanders

Recently featured in my Juneteenth list, this proves to be a beautiful debut about a family history from in the South. Aubrey Lamb revisits the history of her family in the South upon the passing of her father. My friend won this book through a Goodreads giveaway and gave it 5 stars! I have the ALC so I’ll start this week!

#7. The Simp by Roshan Sethi

A satire based on a REAL ad posted by a wealthy family looking for a personal assistant? Sign me up there is no book I want to read more at the current moment. This was also featured on NYT’s books that everyone will be reading this summer. The Simp isn’t on Net Galley so I guess I need to put in a library hold ASAP!

#8. Man Overboard! by Kathleen Rooney

One thing to know about me is that I will never go on a cruise because I have an irrational fear of rogue waves and I didn’t sleep for weeks after watching Poseidon. But it’s supposed to be a slyly witty and funny book about a guy who falls off a cruise ship who is also afraid of the ocean….so I’ll give it a go.

#9. The Season of Sinking by Daphne Woolsoncroft

I’m a millennial woman so I’ll read any book written by a successful true crime podcaster.

#10. Some People by Parini Shroff

A man on the brink of divorce is roped into taking care of his injured mother in law. Described as wise, witty, and heartfelt, this sounds exactly like the kind of book I need in my life.

#11. The Mash Up by Laura Marie Meyers

On the brink of a breakup, Ruby wakes up on day in a game of M.A.S.H. (what a throw back!!) in a mansion and with her brother’s annoyingly handsome friend. This book gives me the vibes of How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days and I am absolutely here for it!

#12. The Man by Laura Sims

A domestic suspense thriller about a woman photographer who starts seeing a dark silhouette in her photos. You know how it was a viral trend to drive a Tesla through graveyards because sometimes there would be a figure in the GPS? These are the vibes I get and I’m here for it (catch me reading this one only during the daytime!).

#13. We Were Forbidden by Jacqueline Harpman

Being published in an English translation for the first time, we’ll see! I am hoping for more elaboration on the sci-fi/dystopian world.

July 14

#14. Famous Men by Julie Buntin

Wills Miles has always wondered who and where her father is: then she connects to a few poems by a famous writer. A passing comment from her mother has her thinking….is he her father?

#15. Hot Girl Murder Club by Ashley Winstead

Ummm also the name of my book club???? Just kidding.

#16. Lazy X by Molly Fader

A novel exploring female rage across three generations, spanning from LA to NYC. This is a historical fiction mystery and it sounds so much fun!

#17. Unreliable Narrator by Araminta Hall

Hope arrives at a beautiful estate on weekend and embarks on a crazy adventure of lust, luxury, and decadence. Ten years later, she reads a book that describes her weekend exactly. Has someone stolen her story or relived her dream? This sounds like the PERFECT beach read for the summer!

#18. It Will Come Back To You by Sigrid Nunez

A collection of short stories from award winning author Sigrid Nunez. I’m loving short stories books at the moment so have added this to my list immediately!

#19. Make Nice by Ryan Effgen

A family vacation quickly unravels after three siblings meet up at a Lake Michigan hotel. Family bonding - what ever goes wrong?

#20. They Stole A City by Lauren Collins

Lauren Collins weaves together the story of 4 families over 125 years, documenting the horrific impacts of white supremacy. I am trying to read more non-fiction, and this sounds so powerful and interesting.

#21. Everything To The Sea by Alicia Upano

This is a debut novel so OBVIOUSLY have to include on the list. About two lovers in Haiwaii navigating the aftermath of a devastating tsunami.

#22. Catch The Devil by Pamela Colloff

A con man sends an innocent man to prison for a murder he didn’t commit. This true crime novel sounds insane and riveting!

#23. Should The Waters Take Us by Stephanie Soileau

An epic debut novel (another debut!) about a four generations of one family and the cycle of injustice and destruction. This sounds like such a beautiful novel.

#24. The Parisian Heist by Jo Piazza

A dual timeline mystery that takes place in Paris, this book seems like so much fun!

July 21

#25. Cool Machine by Colson Whitehead

The final book in Pulitzer Prize winning Colson Whitehead’s Harlem trilogy. A vivid tale about a man’s journey through New York - a city on the brink of financial ruin.

#26. The New People by Andrea Uptmor

In the wake of the ‘08 financial crisis, a lesbian couple moves into a foreclosure unaware that the prior homeowners are still living in the attic.

#27. Capital From Zero by Kohei Saito

Working in climate change and resiliency focused infrastructure as an engineer, I am always jumping at the bit to read any climate focused books. A retelling of Marx’s Capital through a climate focused lens.

#28. This Is The Plan by Ben Wikler

Finally, a plan.

#29. Dad, Love Me by Matthew Quick

A beautiful memoir written in the form of letters to Quick’s ailing father. Quick was the author of Silver Linings Playbooks.

#30. Tenderness by Rowan Beaird

A bride recently left a cult that may still be following her?? I am in desperate need of a cult thriller at the moment.

July 28

#31. The Obsessed by Lizzie Buehler

A coming of age debut (hooray for a debut!!) novel about a woman who attempts to map her life to match her favorite love story. This book sounds incredible and I am ~obsessed~ with he cover.

#32. Liberation Summer: The Moment That Changed the Women’s Movement and the Future of American Politics by Micki McElya

I have an ARC for this! I will read anything about the women’s movement. I cannot wait!

#33. Getting Away With Murder by Shari LaPena

Other early reviews are saying this is her best book yet! I am in need of a good domestic thriller!

#34. Beginning Middle End by Valeria Luiselli

I recently featured this on my 40 Books that Feel Like Summer Based on Your Reading Location / Vibe so it’s been on my radar for quite a bit! A book about a mother and daughter who take a roadtrip in the Italian countryside. I am in love with this book cover!

#35. My Person by Téa Mutonji

A debut novel about two longtime bestfriends - Tania and Morgan - where Tania proposes to break up their friendship. In fact, Tania wants to “unknow” her best friend and extradite everything about Morgan from her life. This story sounds so unique, and I love the book cover. I cannot wait to read!

#36. Deceptions by Jeffery Deaver

I’m so into short story books right now! Deceptions features two crime/mystery short stories.

#37. The Good Parts by Evann Normandin

A love story about a woman who takes a memory erasing pill and the man she loves reenters her life as a stranger. I love literary love stories and this sounds so interesting!

July 30

#38. Reckonings by Louise Jordan ( )

My Bookstack friend has a new book coming out! A crime/thriller that takes place in the Australian outback. I can’t wait to read later this month!

Other booklists to read next!

Join book club with lauren , a virtual book club! See deets here

Join me on Goodreads here :)

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Happy Pride Month! 🏳️‍🌈

This is a book list to celebrate and commemorate our LGBTQ+ identifying friends and facilitate conversations about gender and sexual identity. And some of these books are just plain fun but support our queer authors. I hope you add some new books to your TBR from this list. Let me know what I should add to mine!

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My Recommended Books

#1. Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart

Shuggie Bain was not only a book club with lauren pick, but also one of my six star reads this year. Shuggie Bain follows a young boy - Hugh, “Shuggie” - grappling with his own identity in socially devastated Glasgow public housing during the 1980s. He cares for his alcoholic mother while navigating poverty and survival. Shuggie Bain was impressively author Douglas Stuart’s debut novel and it won the Booker Prize in 2020. Although fiction, Shuggie Bain draws on Stuart’s personal experience growing up queer in working-class Glasgow.

Stuart’s newest 2026 release John of John is out now and I will be reading soon!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#2. A Family Matter by Claire Lynch

This is a short, yet brilliant book with depth. A Family Matter is an impressive debut novel that explores prejudice against women and LGBTQ+ relationships among the cultural climate at the 1980s. Similar timeframe to aforementioned Shuggie Bain but a completely different feel of a book.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#3. Girl’s Girl by Sonia Feldman

Girl’s Girl - a June 2026 release and Feldman’s debut novel - follows three teenage friends and one fateful summer where protagonist Mina navigating falling in love with one of the other two girls. This novel is so witty and poignant - Feldman captured teenage woes so effortlessly. There is nothing as quintessential as a teenage love and coming of age.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#4. Almost Life by Kiran Millwood Hargrave

Of course I am including my favorite book of the year so far on this list! Almost Life is a stunning sapphic literary fiction novel about two women who meet one fateful summer in Paris. If you are looking to get your heart shattered into a zillion pieces, then add this to your TBR immediately.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#5. Everyone In This Room Will Someday Be Dead by Emily Austin

This is such a gem of a novel; Emily Austin’s voice is such a gift. Everyone In This Room Will Someday Be Dead is a dark comedic story about our atheist lesbian protagonist Gilda who takes a job as a receptionist at a Catholic Church. This is such a deeply profound and human novel about identity, sexuality, falling in love, and mental health. I laughed and cried the entire time.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#6. Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar

A beautiful, quirky novel about a bisexual/queer poet Cyrus who is grappling with his recent sobriety and loss of his parents. This is such a stunning novel about identity, grief, and addiction while exploring how one cements their own legacy in the world. I’ve never read anything like Martyr! before!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

#7. The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue

Maybe a lighter read on this list, but still some deeper messaging woven throughout the story. Rachel and James are best friends at university. Rachel is obsessed with her married professor Dr Fred Bryne and ends up assisting James with his affair with Fred. It’s a story that explores sexuality, relationships, and friendship amidst Ireland in financial ruin. I included this on my recent Non Romance Beach Reads list.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#8. Razorblade Tears by SA Cosby

SA Cosby isn’t just another thriller writer. All of his books typically have explore deeper themes of systematic racism or prejudice. I recently described one of this other books All The Sinners Bleed akin to True Detective Season 1 (if you know, you know). Razorblade Tears is a story about two married gay sons - one black man and one white man - and their ex convict dads who never fully accepted their sexuality. When the sons are murdered, their dads form an unlikely friendship in order to avenge their murder. This definitely has the pacing and tension of an excellent thriller while exploring much more beneath the surface.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#9. Kin by Tayari Jones

You may be surprised to see Kin on a pride list, where the novel is known for its exploration of familial meaning during the peak of the Civil Rights movement. There are subtle explorations of sexuality in Kin however. It’s such a wonderful, moving novel that everyone should read.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#10. We Could Be Rats by Emily Austin

We Could Be Rats is a unique story about two estranged sisters - Sigrid and Margit - told through Sigrid’s attempted suicide note drafts. Heavy themes of addiction, sexual abuse, and identity are explored in this coming of age novel. Sigrid has a longing desire to be a carefree carnival rat - an homage to her nostalgia for childhood and unhindered imagination. It’s such a gem of a novel!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#11. Nymph by Sofia Montrone

A coming of age novel, Nymph is an atmospheric novel for your senses. Every description is evocative of a tactile smell or feeling, depicting a sultry and lush scenery in the Italian countryside. Nymph follows Leo - a teenager navigating her father’s mental illness and her first love with an American teenager.

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#12. Buckeye by Patrick Ryan

A sweeping generational and family saga following the lives of Felix, Margaret, and Cal. Felix and Margaret are married, and after his return from war, Margaret begins an affair with Cal. Buckeye explores the impacts of grief and closeted sexuality on marriage and relationships through a beautiful, heartbreaking novel. I listened to this audiobook and absolutely loved it - the narrator is incredible!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

#13. I Leave It Up To You by Jinwoo Chong

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Jack Jr. wakes up one day after having been in a coma for over two years. His boyfriend is gone, and his parents who he hasn’t spoken to in years are by his side. He returns to his hometown to help his family run their struggling sushi restaurant. This is a story of reconciliation and rediscovery.

#14. The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A beautiful novel about navigating mental health and friendship among a working class community. Ocean Vuong is also a queer author. This book had me crying on the airplane!

#15. Local Heavens by K.M. Fajardo

One of the more interesting books I have read, Local Heavens is a retelling of The Great Gatsby with a revamping of the familiar relationships. This was a pretty heavy sci-fi read so sometimes I was lost in the terminology, but diehard sci-fi fans may really love this one!

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Let’s Read Together! Books on my TBR

1. The Last Ferry Out by Andrea Bartz (): Abby’s finance dies in a sudden tragic accident on a remote rugged coastal town. When Abby goes to investigate, mysterious things start to happen. This is a thriller from queer author and anti-AI advocate Andrea Bartz! I recently did a giveaway for her book which released in paperback on June 16. Andrea is the best - go support her and her books!!

2. Stag Dance by Torrey Peters: This Pulitzer Prize nominee features three short stories that delves into themes of gender identity, transness, and more! I can’t wait to read this one.

3. We Are Gathered Here Today by Bobby Finger: One of my most anticipated June 2026 releases, this book follows a recently engaged man who attends a chaotic wedding weekend.

4. John of John by Douglas Stuart: Obviously including because of Shuggie Bain, but John of John follows a father and son who are both grappling with and hiding their sexuality in a conservative town.

5. Villa Coco by Andrew Sean Greer: From Pulitzer Prize winning author Andrew Sean Greer comes a queer comedic coming of age tale about a young archivist navigating a chaotic household in Tuscany.

6. Social Animals by Camille Perri: Another June 2026 release about a group of friends who meet at a dog park from queer author Camille Perri.

7. They All Fall in Love at the End by Haili Blassingame (): A June 2026 release and debut for the author about a chaotic love quadrangle between friends. This sounds so juicy!

8. So Old, So Young by Grant Girder: A millennial friend group story exploring growing up but not feeling quite like an adult yet.

9. Is This a Cry For Help? by Emily Austin: About a librarian who returns to work after a mental breakdown. Emily Austin always does the best job exploring sexual identity, queer life, and mental health.

10. Take Me With You by Steven Rowley: A blend of magical realism and insightful

11. Canon by Paige Lewis: A non-binary teen sets off on an epic journey to slay a warlord. I’m honestly just obsessed with the cover.

12. No God But Us by Bob Sayed: This follows the kinship of two gay Afghan men who meet in Istanbul. I won this book from a Goodreads giveaway and have been so excited to read!

13. Fat Swim by Emma Copley Eisenberg: A collection of short stories exploring queer life and relationships as well as body image. I love a good short story!!

14. A Good Person by Kirsten King: This thriller book seems like a hoot! Bisexual antagonist Lillian places a hex on her ex-situationship.

15. Nothing Tastes as Good by Luke Dumas: A body horror novel about a gay man who participates in a weight loss drug trial. I’m a little nervous that it’s horror but I’m hoping that the the societal commentary overrides!

Check out this book from one of my subscribers who writes exclusively queer stories!

The Blessed and The Cursed is a romantic fantasy following Blossom, a boy born with the life giving powers of nature, and Asher, a prince with a death curse. They were promised to each other at a young age in order to keep Asher alive, and yet Asher’s father seems determined to keep them apart. The Shadow of Nature is the sequel and you can find more about it on Jade’s website (jademustoauthor.com)

Other booklists to read next!

Join book club with lauren , a virtual book club! See deets here

Join me on Goodreads and Threads :)

You better believe I spent the better part of my week scouring through my Goodreads and compiling (and writing mini reviews for aka raw, unfiltered thoughts and rambles) all of the audiobooks I’ve ever listened to. There’s 120 of them. I only started audiobooks about 2ish years ago too, so I’m pretty dang proud of that!!

I’ve organized the audiobooks first by genre, then rating of the overall book, and then included a brief sentence on my thoughts on the book/audiobook. The brief sentences get more unhinged as I got tired of writing them, so you’re in for a real treat. If you’re looking for anymore feedback on a certain book, drop it in the comments and I’ll elaborate!

You can navigate to each genre using the links below:

• Better Than The Book

• Thriller/Mystery

• Literary Fiction/General Fiction

• Historical Fiction

• Romance

• Sci-fi/Fantasy/Horror

• Memoir/Non-fiction

P.S. - I’m currently listening to My Dear You by Rachel Khong and the audio is fantastic so far! It’s a short story book and the first two short stories are 5 stars from me. More to come on that!

P.S.S. - As an American, if the narrator has a British, Australia, Irish, etc. accent, I’m going to like the audiobook more.

P.S.S.S. - Don’t judge me for how many Freida McFadden’s I’ve listened to. My reading taste has grown since then.

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Better Than The Book

These are the 20 audiobooks that I’ve recommend listening to over reading the physical copy!

1. Piranesi by Susanna Clarke (narrated by Chiwetel Ejiofor): If I could capture this narrators voice in a bottle and listen to it everyday for the rest of my life, I would. I know he’s a famous actor focused on actor-things but like I WISH HE NARRATED MORE AUDIOBOOKS. The audiobook transported me to the most ethereal Greek world and I wanted to live there. Just take a listen to the preview for the audiobook and let me know if that mans voice couldn’t calm your whole nervous system down. I don’t know that I would have enjoyed the book as much if it wasn’t for the audio. It’s one of my favorites of all time.

2. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir (narrated by Ray Porter): The internet kind of knows this now, but I still have to include it. Yes the audiobook is incredible. It is probably the best audiobook I’ve ever listened to and it made the movie oh so much sweeter. I would die for Rocky.

3. World War Z by Max Brooks (narrated by multiple people): Lauren, but you HATE horror and zombies?! HEAR ME OUT! Trust me, this book is nothing like the movie. It’s actually a series of interviews about the world in the aftermath of the zombie apocalypse, focusing heavily on the socioeconomic and geopolitical climate. This is a SMART book on humanity and I loved it. Many celebrities, including Martin Scorsese, narrate the chapters.

4. Down The Drain by Julia Fox (narrated by Julia Fox): I’m going to be honest. This is probably the best and craziest celebrity memoir I’ve listened to. Recently I’ve been very over the celebrity memoir; hot take, but a lot of them are really boring. Julia Fox is anything BUT dull, and she’s actually a pretty good writer. This is so, so worth it.

5. A Thousand Ways to Die: The True Cost of Violence on Black Life in America by Trymaine Lee (narrated by Trymaine Lee): Trymaine Lee is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist for his work on Hurricane Katrina. This book is so expertly researched and so heartfelt, it had me in tears multiple times. Lee’s own narration makes it extra powerful.

   

6. Carrie by Stephen King (narrated by Sissy Spacek): DUH!!! What an iconic narrator. It’s utter perfection. Such an amazing book too - so much good social commentary. People suck!

7. All the Sinners Bleed by SA Cosby (narrated by Adam Lazarre-White): It’s a shock to no one that the audiobook won an Audie award. This is a stellar book with a stellar author. I compared the quality and production of this book to Season 1 of True Detective (IF YOU KNOW, YOU KNOW!)

8. Dominion by Addie Citchens (narrated by Andre Giles, Angel Pean, Bahni Turpin, and Dion Graham): I absolutely love this book and it was actually my FIRST EVER Net Galley review!! So it’s extra special. The audio is really cool as there are multiple narrators and they do a phenomenal job tapping into the characters. Accents and all!

9. Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera (narrated by January LaVoy and Will Damron): Bonus points if there are multiple narrators! This is an AWESOME thriller and definitely worth the hype plus the podcast element makes the book extra fun.

10. The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster (narrated by Rainn Wilson): I never read this book growing up so I decided to give it a listen when I heard Rainn Wilson was the narrator. There IS no better narrator for this book!! I feel like kids would absolutely love this.

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I hope if you’re a father you’re enjoying some time with family or much deserved R&R. If Father’s Day is difficult holiday for you, my heart goes out to you.

I did a similar list for Mother’s Day last month, and as Father’s Day was approaching, I scrolled through my Goodreads looking with books with prominent father figures. What I found? Not many books about good dads. Apparently absent, removed, or abusive fathers make for very complex, beautiful books. So I’ve got a list of books (many of which are 2026 new releases!!) which include the good, the bad, the ugly, the beautiful of fatherhood. Enjoy!

This post is for paid subscribers! I’ve got a few polls at the end of the list for paid subscribers to weigh in on some future articles. I’m running a deal for upgraded memberships, so check it out!

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The “Carry the Fire” Father

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Juneteenth is a holiday in the United States that recognizes and celebrates the emancipation of African American slaves. It marks the date on June 18, 1865 when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation, bringing the news of freedom to the last remaining enslaved people. America’s history is deep rooted in slavery and many of the horrific and detrimental impacts still affect many Americans in society today. It’s an important holiday in our country that requires not only celebration but conversation.

This book list includes a mix of fiction and non fiction. While non-fiction is great for describing historical accuracy and events, fiction is where I believe we tend to find we develop and grow our empathy and may better facilitate conversations.

I know that this booklist will have only scratched the surface: while doing my research on all of the literature related to slavery and racism, I was overwhelmed by the amount out there. I had to stop myself from adding books to this late because it got too late and I needed to go to bed! I absolutely missed important books, so please make sure to add any that you recommend in the comments! My husband said I can save whatever I missed for next year!

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My 5 and 6 Star Reads

These are the books that I’ve read and have blown me away. Everyone needs to read every single on included below.

1. The Reformatory by Tananarive Due: It’s no shock to anyone that’s been here a minute that The Reformatory is the first book I’ve included on this list. This is one of the most difficult books I’ve ever read; can’t say I frequently feel the emotional devastation that The Reformatory inflicted upon me. That being said, it’s also one of the most important books I’ve read in my life. It was my #1 book last year, and you can read why in my longer review.

2. The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead: This Pulitzer Prize winning novel’s story actually takes place at the same school that The Reformatory is based on: The Dozier School for boys. Although a similar setting, The Nickel Boys is a very different book from The Reformatory. Although still harrowing, it is much less graphic and descriptive and may be a good starter book for readers interested in The Reformatory. It’s beautifully and powerfully written and will live with me forever.

3. James by Perceval Everett: A highly acclaimed, beautiful retelling of Tom Sawyer from James’ point of view is a beautiful book. If you haven’t read it yet, you must.

4. A Thousand Ways to Die by Trymaine Lee: This was one of my 9 six star reads in 2025 and is one of my most recommended audio books (as discussed here). Lee is an accomplished journalist, having won the Pulitzer Prize for reporting on Louisiana during Hurricane Katrina. This book is a powerful examination on how relentless violence impacts generations of families and communities. You won’t walk away from this book with your heart intact.

5. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett: This is actually one of the books that helped me get back into reading. The Vanishing Half is a beautiful exploration of identify in America: two black sisters take different paths in life, one passing as a white woman and one as a black woman.

6. Kin by Tayari Jones: A heartbreaking novel about two women finding the meaning of family and their relationship to each other, while navigating the racist South. One of my favorite books this year and the first pick!

Award Winning Fiction

These are incredible books that explore racism and black history that have won major literary awards (Pulitzer Prize, National Book Award, NAACP Image Award).

1. Beloved by Toni Morrison: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, Beloved is about a girl who was enslaved in the south and escaped to Ohio where she is still haunted by her baby brother.

2. Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, Underground Railroad follows a slave named Cora who attempts to escape using the Underground Railroad.

3. Song of Solomon by Toni Morrison: Winner of National Book Critics Circle Award, Song of Solomon is about the life from birth to adulthood of Macon -Milkman- Dead III.

4. Invisible Man by Ralph Ellison: Winner of the National Book Award, Invisible Man follows an unnamed protagonist in his search for identity in a racist world.

5. The Color Purple by Alice Walker: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, The Color Purple is about a woman named Celie whose life we see through her written letters to God and her sister Nettie.

   

6. Sing, Unburied, Sing by Jesmyn Ward: Winner of the National Book Award, Sing, Unburied, Sing follows a black family on the Gulf of Mississippi as they pick up their white father from prison.

7. A Lesson Before Dying by Ernest J. Gaines: Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award, A Lesson Before Dying is about a black man who is the sole survivor in a liquor store shootout and is convicted of murder and sentenced to death.

8. The Known World by Edward P. Jones: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, The Known World is about a former slave who ends up under the care of a white man.

9. Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor: Winner of the NAACP Image Award, Death of the Author is about a woman named Zelu who is at a low point in life and upon rejection of her novel, decides to write something completely new.

10. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones: Winner of the NAACP Image Award, An American Marriage follows a newlywed couple as they navigate the American dream and the New South.

Award Winning Non-Fiction

1. The Hemingses of Monticello by Annette Gordon-Reed: Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and the National Book Award, this book explores four generations of a family enslaved at Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Gordon-Reed is a historian at Harvard.

2. Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America by Ibram X. Kendi: Winner of the National Book Award, this book explores how the ideas of racism were created and spread in society.

3. The 1619 Project by multiple contributing authors: Winner of the NAACP Image Award, 18 essays are included in this book that the explore the impacts of slavery on today’s society.

4. The Warmth of Other Suns by Isabel Wilkerson: Winner of the NAACP Image Award and ranked by numerous publications as one of the best books of the year and decade, chronicles the migration of six million Black citizens who fled the South.

5. Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates: Winner of the National Book Award and Finalist for the Pulitzer Prize, author Coates attempts to answer questions regarding racism and societal issues in the form of letters to his son.

Fiction Books on Historical Racism

1. The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride: Explores the racism in a housing community in Pennsylvania in the 70s after construction workers discover a human skeleton.

2. All American Boys by Jason Reynolds, Brendan Kiely: Two young men - one black and one white - confront racism in the form of police brutality.

3. The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray: The story of JP Morgan’s personal librarian who was a black woman who passed as white.

4. Such a Fun Age by Kiley Reid: A babysitter is accused of stealing the white child she is watching.

5. Go Tell it On The Mountain by James Baldwin: Johnny deals with the aftermath of childhood abuse from his father.

   

6. The Girl With The Louding Voice by Abi Daré: Adunni is a fourteen year old girl who wants an education, but instead is sold to an older man for money.

7. Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi: A historical fiction novel that follows generations of family over 300 years in Ghana including immigration to America.

8. Harlem Rhapsody by Victoria Christopher Murray: Jessie navigates growing civil unrest and racism while living in Harlem in 1919.

9. The Help by Kathryn Stockett: Skeeter returns home to Mississippi after graduating from Ole Miss and decides to write a novel on the lives of black maids, “the help”.

10. Native Son by Richard Wright: The story of a young black man who kills a white woman in a panic.

Non-Fiction Books on Historical Racism

1. Caste by Isabel Wilkerson: An exploration of history racism in the United States in the form of a caste system (defined as a rigid form of social stratification where an individual's social status, occupation, and marriage partners are determined by birth (heredity) with little to no opportunity for upward mobility).

2. I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou: Award winning author and poet, Maya Angelou’s memoir.

3. So You Want To Talk About Race by Ijeoma Oluo: A comprehensive look at the current political, socio-economic and racial landscape in America with respect to Black Lives Matter, police brutality, systematic racism, and more.

4. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander: An exploration into the argument that the racial caste in America has not been ended, but redesigned in the form of mass incarceration.

5. The Fire Next Time by James Baldwin: A exploration of the racial consequences Baldwin experienced while living in Harlem.

Fiction Books on Slavery

1. Burn Down Master’s House by Clay Cane: Luke and Henri work together to fight back the unspeakable cruelty they face as slaves.

2. Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine: Junie has been enslaved all of her life and must make a life altering choice upon awakening her sister’s ghost.,

3. The Seven Daughters of Dupree by Nikesha Elise Williams: Explores generations of women in the Dupree family and the impact slavery has had on all of their lives.

4. River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer: Upon the Emancipation Act, a master declares that his slaves must now and work for him as apprentices. Rachel flees for her freedom.

5. Kindred by Octavia Butler: Dana, a modern black woman, is transported to antebellum South to save people. She keeps being transported to different places and times.

Non-Fiction Books on Slavery

1. On Juneteenth by Annette Gordon-Reed: An exploration of the author’s family history from Juneteenth in Texas, through Jim Crow, to present day.

2. The Life and Times of Frederick Douglas by Frederick Douglas: Douglas recounts his life story from being a slave on a Plantation to being a writer.

3. The Half Has Never Been Told: Slavery and the Making of American Capitalism by Edward E. Baptist: An exploration of how after the US achieved independence, used slavery for economic boom.

4. Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northrup: A memoir about Solomon, a New York citizen who is kidnapped into slavery.

5. Unsung: Unheralded Narratives of American Slavery & Abolition by multiple authors: A historical anthology on lost stories.

Young Adult Fiction

1. The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas: Starr Carter navigates two worlds: her poor, predominantly black neighborhood and her wealthy private school.

2. Dear Martin by Nic Stone: Justyce McAllister’s plans for the Ivy League are halted when he ends up being arrested.

3. Black Enough: Stories of Being Young & Black in America – An Acclaimed YA Anthology on Diverse Teen Experiences by multiple authors: An anthology of captivating stories about what it’s like to be young and black in America.

4. Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes: 12 year old Jerome is shot and killed by a police officer who mistakes his toy for a gun: he witnesses the aftermath as a ghost.

5. Monster by Walter Dean Meyers: A sixteen year old is on trial as an accomplice for murder; he must confront the choices he’s made and the path he chose.

Pride Month

1. Razorblade Tears by SA Cosby: Two fathers - one white, and one black - attempt to avenge the murder of their gay sons.

2. Don’t Cry For Me by Daniel Black: A black father attempts to make amends with his gay son while on his death bed.

3. Isaac’s Song by Daniel Black: A young black, queer man finds his voice while living in 1980’s Chicago.

4. An Unkindness of Ghosts by Rivers Solomon: A sci-fi novel about a queer, black autistic young person growing up in space apartheid.

5. These Heathens by Mia McKenzie: Seventeen year old Doris goes to Atlanta to get an abortion amidst Civil Rights movement.

New Book Releases by Black Authors

These books are not necessarily rooted in historical racism or slavery, but are new releases by black authors.

1. The Missed Connection by Tia Williams: Sasha has an immediate connection with an Italian man on a flight and after the flight is determined to find him.

2. Honey by Imani Thompson: A graduate student murders horrible men in the name of feminism.

3. Keeper of Children by Saqeda Johnson: Three stories converge in post WWII Germany for this breathtaking novel.

4. On Witness and Repair by Jesmyn Ward: A collection of nonfiction essays from award winning author, Jesmyn Ward.

5. Leave Your Mess at Home by Tolani Akinola: The Longe siblings are each a wreck; they are forced to confront their fateful pasts upon a longstanding reunion.

Upcoming Book Releases by Black Authors

1. The Great Wherever by Sharon Sanders (pub. July 7): Aubrey Lamb revisits the history of her family in the South upon the passing of her father.

2. Take What You Can by Naima Coster (pub. August 4): Val and Milly fell in love as best friends and the only two black students on an abroad trip. Now they attempt to raise their daughters together in New York after years apart.

3. The Revelation of Dionne Daphne (pub. June 30): Dionne Daphne is a woman who seems to have it all, until a strange knocks on her door with life-threatening news and upends her entire life.

4. Cool Machine by Colson Whitehead (pub. July 26): The final book in Whitehead’s Harlem trilogy. A vivid tale about a man’s journey through New York - a city on the brink of financial ruin.

5. Dèy by Edwidge Danticat (pub. August 25): A timely story about a woman who moves from Haiti to Brooklyn to Miami.

   

6. The Disappears by Marlon James (pub. September 1): Eight men begin rehearsals for a play in Jamaica. Then a mob attacks and kills one of the men.

7. American Nightmare by Kelly Williams (pub. September 15): A haunting historical novel about a light-skinned black man who goes undercover to investigate lynchings.

8. Mazywood by Tananarive Due (pub September 22): A literary thriller about a young boy who is the grandson of a famous black actress and returns to her cabin.

9. The True Confessions of First Lady Freeman by Deesha Philyaw (pub. September 29): The wife of a megachurch pastor upends her life upon finding out a secret.

10. Truth to Power by SA Cosby (pub. October 13): Luke Cage plays a detective and superhero who must save Americans who become victim to a madman’s manipulation.

How To Support Black Authors

Buy books from Black authors! You can also buy books from black owned bookstores (see a map here). If you don’t live near a black-owned bookstore, you can set them as your bookstore when you purchase audiobooks on .

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Yes, you read the title of this article correctly. I hyper analyzed numerous vegetables and discerned their overall vibes….and then picked books that matched said vibe. If you didn’t find me crazy yet, I hope this seals the deal.

I have to thank my friend Laurie for helping me with this list; we spent hours agonizing over vegetables and the partnering books. I had a LOT of laughs and tears creating this post, so I hope you enjoy even a fraction of the amount I did. ENJOY!!!!!

P.S. - Make sure to tell me what your fave veggie is in the comments!

Potato

Everyone loves potatoes. EVERYONE. And if you think you’re the one person who doesn't, you’re just wrong. Potatoes can come in all shapes and sizes and forms. Baked? Fried? Steamed? All incredible. Even the fanciest of people will still love french fries. I don’t trust a person who doesn’t love french fries.

If potatoes are your favorite vegetable then….Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt is for you.

Carrot

Carrots are the ultimate healthy SNACK! Carrots are here for a good time, not a long time and can hang with almost any vegetable. Give a carrot a time and place, and they’re there making friends with everyone. Charcuterie board? Carrot is in mingling with the cheese and crackers. Chatting up the olives in between hummus or ranch dips. If I am to recommend a vegetable to someone who is new to vegetables, the carrot is what I’m going for.

If carrots are your favorite vegetable, then The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is for you.

Onion

Onion lovers have grit and determination and are unafraid of a difficult journey. Onion lovers know that their favorite vegetable is completely worth the flooding of tears along the way. Because no salad, burger, or sauce is complete without it.

If onions are your favorite vegetable, then The Reformatory by Tananarive Due is for you. You can handle the tears and the anxiety because you know that reading The Reformatory is worth it in every possible way, and that your life is better having read it.

Cucumber

Everyone loves cucumber except for me. EVERYONE. I have never found an occasion where I need to eat an entire cucumber and if I did, I probably regretted it immediately. But the girls are loving it right now, so who am I to have a superiority complex and say they’re wrong. Anyways….

If cucumbers are your favorite vegetable, then I Who Have Never Known Men by Jaqcueline Harpman is for you.

Kale

Kale is the ultimate cool girl. Ahead of its time and extremely nutrient dense, kale packs a lot in. Although one may need to massage kale with olive oil before consuming, as the raw crunch can be unsavory for some (for context, I’ve never massaged my kale in my life), it can be SO good. But if kale is too strong, there’s always romaine or iceberg lettuce…

If kale is your favorite vegetable, then Animal by Lisa Taddeo is for you.

Eggplant

I don’t need to explain this one. I haven’t even read the book yet.

If eggplant is your favorite vegetable, then Heated Rivalry by Rachel Reid is for you.

Spaghetti Squash

In my humble opinion, spaghetti squash is one of the most unhinged vegetables out there. Like what do you MEAN you cut open a squash and there’s spaghetti!? It defies all logic. But look, I’m no hater. Sometimes unhinged is exactly what you’re looking for. Spaghetti squash is an awesome vegetable and goes great with some veggies and goat cheese.

If spaghetti squash is your favorite vegetable, then My Husband’s Wife by Alice Feeney is for you. Sometimes, the crazier the better.

Artichoke

You may think artichokes are a delicacy. A fancy vegetable typically served with a gourmet fancy butter dipper. In some respects, artichokes are a funky additive on a charcuterie board. But artichokes are also down to earth and humble. You can find them congregating with cheese and cream for a perfect bar food snack.

If artichoke is your favorite vegetable, then Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar is for you. An accessible, humble lit-fic read.

Beets

Beets are an excellent appetizer dish, served promptly as good discussion over dinner is beginning. Usually found in a nice salad with goat cheese, beets are easy to eat and packed with a lot of vitamin and nutrition. But be wary of them post dinner, because they can cause quite a….scare.

P.S. - I will never not think of that one Portlandia episode when thinking of beets (if you know, you know).

If beets are your favorite vegetable, then Carrie by Stephen King is for you.

Mushrooms

Mushroom lovers don’t read books.

Just kidding. This is an inside joke because I actually hate mushrooms with every fiber of my being. Mushrooms? You either hate them or you love them and there is no in between.

If a mushroom is your favorite vegetable, then Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke is a book for you. Whether people love it or hate it, it’s THE hot topic.

Would love your feedback!

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Happy Wednesday! I hope everyone is having a great week. This is my 3rd paid post and I’m so excited to share it with you all! I asked paid subscribers in my last paid post (40 Books that Feel Like Summer Based on Your Reading Location / Vibe) what they wanted to see next, and this was the winner! Reminder that if you care, vote in the polls because I do really use the feedback. This is my second installment of If You Read This…Try This!, which was very fun the last time. You can see the first here! This list comprises mostly of books that have been released in the last few months. So without further ado, let’s get into it.

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If you read The Correspondent by Virginia Evans…

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I published one of this recaps back in February after I finished 10 new January book releases (you can see that recap here)! I wanted to start doing the same again. For reference, here were 10 books on my March Reading Radar! I know we are already a few months away from March, but I just got up to 10 (actually 11 I somehow missed a book, but I digress) and I DON’T CARE! But I will be publishing April and May’s soon! Whether you love it or hate it, make sure to give me your thoughts in a poll at the end (I appreciate your feedback as always).

So without further ado, here’s whether or not I recommend the following 10 11 books that were released in March.

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#1. Daughter of Egypt by Marie Benedict

Genre: Historical fiction

Premise: Dual timeline with a woman in London 1920’s in search of Tutankhamun's tomb and the first woman pharaoh in Egypt.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️

For fans of: What We Can Know by Ian McEwan (because it’s the only other book I can think of that was similarly bleak)

Recommend?: No. I found the plot to be pretty dry and lackluster, the character development to be minimal, the romance to be dull, and the pace to be so slow. Not much really happened and it wasn’t a short book. This is an exciting time period and shouldn’t have been so boring.

#2. Wait for Me by Amy Jo Burns

Genre: Historical Fiction

Premise: A famous folk singer, Elle Harlow, went missing almost two decades ago. Upon a meteor strike, Marijohn Shawn discovers a piece of Elle from the past.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Nashville (TV show), The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead

Recommend?: Maybe. I actually really enjoyed the start of this book but then something about it really fell flat for me. I think the character development kind of stopped and the plot didn’t move fast and I just found the last half to be lackluster and boring. I also felt like loose ends were tied up quickly and it felt rushed. If you’re interested in this one, however, you should definitely do the audiobook because the original songs/singing was very cool!

#3. This Story Might Save Your Life by Tiffany Crum

Genre: Mystery

Premise: Joy and Benny are famous podcasters who run a show called “This Story May Save Your Life”. One day, Joy and her husband go missing and it’s up to Benny to find out where they are and what happened.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Sally Hepworth, Mary Kubica

Recommend?: Yes. This was a fun one. The podcast element is cool and the overall book has some humor that felt reminiscent of Mad Mabel. It wasn’t the twistiest thriller I’ve read, but it was fast paced and fun. Excellent for a debut!

#4. She Fell Away by Lenore Nash

Genre: Thriller/mystery

Premise: Bowie, an US exchange student, goes missing in New Zealand. It is up to US embassy employee Lake to find her.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

For fans of: Sarah Crouch, Kate Alice Marshall

Recommend?: Maybe. It was a debut novel, and impressive for a debut! I liked it, but didn’t love. While the mystery aspect and twists were well thought out and good, I could have used more character/plot development. There were some half formed narratives (i.e. Lake’s past in Alaska) that I wanted to know more about. Overall definitely an easy, fun read!

#5. Westward Women by Alice Martin

Genre: Dystopian/Literary fiction

Premise: Shifting between 3 different women’s POVs, Westward Women follows women in the US after becoming infection with an unknown virus that gives women an insatiable itch and a desire to move west.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️

For fans of: I don’t even know

Recommend?: No. I honestly couldn’t tell you how this book ended: either because I fell asleep or because it didn’t make sense.

#6. Hooked by Asako Yuzuki

Genre: Literary fiction

Premise: Eriko and Shoko are two very different but similarily very lonely women living in Tokyo. Their paths will cross and will completely shake up their lives.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Yesteryear (maybe), Julie Chain is Dead

Recommend?: Maybe. I know readers are huge fans of Butter, and I wouldn’t discourage anyone from reading Hooked if they really wanted to! I wanted less and more from the book simultaneously. I wrote a longer review on my mixed feelings here. I did, however, think the translation was really well done.

#7. Almost Life by Kiran Millwood Hargrave

Genre: Literary fiction (sapphic love story)

Premise: Erica and Laure have a chance meeting on Paris summer that will change the course of their lives forever.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Heart the Lover, One Day

Recommend?: Duh. My favorite book of the year. It shattered me in ways I wasn’t prepared for. But not everyone may like it but that doesn’t mean I won’t recommend it. My longer book review here.

#8. 200 Monas by Jan Saenz

Genre: Thriller/Romance

Premise: Arvy finds 200 mysterious pills in his mother’s belongings after her sudden death and then has to quickly sell the pills before drug dealers come after her!

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

For fans of: Fleabag (but less witty and more h0rny)

Recommend?: Maybe. 200 Monas was a wild ride and definitely never a dull moment. I was hoping for more witty, but it was more just thrill. While 200 Monas was highly entertaining, it's more of a er0tic/h0rny action book than a witty satire on feminism and sexuality, which was what I was hoping for. I really didn't find that there was much depth here which I was slightly disappointed by. There were relationships in the book that I definitely would have loved more development on, as they were SUPER interesting. But if readers are looking for something fun (and ok with some graphic spice scenes), then this will suffice!

#9. Love is an Algorithm by Laura Brooke Robson

Genre: Contemporary fiction/romance

Premise: Danny - a charming computer scientist - created a dating app that will assess the success of people’s relationships using an AI algorithm. How will this impact his relationship with his rockstar girlfriend, Eve?

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Friends (if you like quick whipped humor), Marie Semple, Enormous Wings

Recommend?: Yes. I’m kind of shocked how much I loved this, but I really did love it. Quietly profound and surprisingly witty, Love is an Algorithm is a book about human-ness and our relationship to each other and technology. Not a romance book but plenty of exposes on relationships.

#10. Strange Buildings by Uketsu (US translated publishing date, not the original)

Genre: Mystery

Premise: There are 11 files that contain information on 11 different and peculiar buildings. Readers help solve a mystery on the connection.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: I can’t think of a book to compare but anyone who loves intricate mysteries/puzzles

Recommend?: Yes! For readers who are looking for a creepy, bone chilling puzzle. This was one of the most unique books I’ve ever read and I loved it! You cannot do the audio for this one - there’s pictures! You can see my longer review on it here.

#11. Celestial Lights by Cecile Pin

Genre: Literary fiction

Premise: Ollie is an engineer and aspiring astronaut who has to make a choice to either go on a once in a lifetime 10 year space mission, or stay at home with family.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

For fans of: Project Hail Mary, Mitch Albom

Recommend?: Yes! This was so surprising and beautiful. I just finished it a few days ago. I haven’t posted a review yet because my bi-weekly reads roundup will come out this upcoming weekend, but you can see my review on Goodreads. This was a quietly profound, and beautiful exploration of life’s choices and following one’s passions, using space as the back drop. I think readers will love this. Plus it’s a shorter read.

Books still on my list! Let me know what else I need to add!

1. The First Widows by SE Reed

2. All the World Can Hold by Jung Yun

3. Nothing Tastes as Good by Luke Dumas

4. Now I Surrender by Álvaro Enrigue , Natasha Wimmer (Translator)

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Hope everyone is enjoying some well deserved rest time. I’ve been thinking about this post for a while, because as many of you know, I’m not a huge romance reader. And that proves to be a problem for the beach because well, beach reads are almost always synonymous with romance.

I am in fact a girl who has read No Country for Old Men by Cormac McCarthy in the Caribbean. Don’t believe me? Including photographic evidence below.

But there are plenty of books out there that are fun, easy reads that make for perfect beach settings (no one wants to be crying whilst 2 margaritas in and toes in the sand, right?). This is also a different list than my 40 Books that Feel Like Summer Based on Your Reading Location / Vibe. So without further ado, here are my non romance beach read recommendations: low stress, fun, easy-to-read, bingeable, and NO TEARS….sans romance.

Photographic evidence of my craziness

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#1. The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

We were graced with a brand new book from the author of The Help! I was so excited when I heard this book was coming out. It’s a longer one (600+ pages), but just like The Help, it’s a story that is hard to put down! Most of it is easy going and perfect for a beach vacation. I have longer review of the book here.

#2. The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue

Not a romance, I swear! This was such a fun and surprising read about a young college student who “falls in love” with her professor. A great book about friendship, but enough spice and intrigue for the beach. You’ll be turning the pages, dying to know what happens next.

#3. Love is an Algorithm by Laura Brooke Robson

Despite the name, this isn’t a romance. Although there’s a relationship, the romantic part is fairly surface level. I found this to be a humorous, light read with some profound insight on technology and relationships. But it’s fun and bingeable! I also wrote a longer review on it here.

#4. Love by the Book by Jessica George

If you’ve been here awhile, you know how much I raved about this book. Love by the Book is a beautiful ode to friendship; it’s also so funny and sweet!!! I don’t know that this will hit for all age groups (my 30 year old self found this to be beyond relatable and relevant for my current time), but it’s definitely an entertaining read!

#5. Go Gentle by Maria Semple

If your vibe is art heist with a little New York coven, then this is the book for you. Go Gentle is brilliantly humorous and while there is a heavier storyline in the book, this is overall still such a wild ride. Think of a bougier, New York version of Lost Lambs, in a way?

#6. Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

My taste in thrillers is mostly, “I’m going to need therapy after reading that” which is not always the vibe you want for the beach. However, a cute thriller is much more suitable. Mad Mabel is just that - it’s about an old woman whose neighbor dies and, because of her mysterious dark past, she is the prime suspect. But it’s silly, fun, light hearted, and perfect for the beach.

#7. The Myron Bolitar Series by Harlan Coben

DON’T ROLL YOUR EYES AT ME! Hear me out! I’m sure this stack of books is sitting somewhere at your grandparents/parents house (maybe even a beach house!). This series put Harlan Coben on the map and they started coming out in the 90s. It’s about a sassy sports agent who solves mysteries and crimes. I LOVE THIS SERIES! Myron is so funny and the crimes aren’t too dark where it’ll send shivers up your spine. It’s like a funnier, less messed up Alex Cross.

#8. She Didnt’ See it Coming by Shari Lapena

This isn’t my favorite thriller, but also probably because my favorite thrillers are insane. But I really enjoyed this one and I read it on the plane. It’s a domestic thriller with some decent twists and overall low stress!

#9. Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston

This was twisty and fun, but not stomach churning! I burned through this trying to figure out the twists. Well worth the read and MAY have you in a chokehold reading while on the beach.

#10. Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

A TJR will ALWAYS be a good time! She’s incredible at immersive scenery and character development. This one is a perfect beach read because well…it takes place by the beach! It’s also SUCH a good story. If you haven’t read it and you’re a fan of Seven Husbands or Daisy Jones…go for it!

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Happy June! Welcome to the 5 on Five challenge, a bookish link party created by Kelly at Book Beveling. You can find out more about the challenge here.

As you may remember, I hosted May’s 5 on Five challenge, which was The Top 5 Books from the First Five Months of 2026 (try to say that 5 times fast). This month, is hosting, and has picked the theme Fractured Families.

A fractured family is one marked by extreme tension, severe trauma, estrangement, or severed ties. It is no surprise that fractured families is a frequent motif in literature; complicated family dynamics provide depth, relatability, reflection, and intrigue. Books such as these tend to showcase characters that grapple with difficult decisions on survival and love. Family dynamics are complex. PEOPLE are complex. I decided along with my 5 books picks, to include a specific facet of family dynamics that I felt the books phenomenally addressed, so you can get a better sense of the books.

Hope you enjoy!

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#1. Shuggie Bain by Douglas Stuart - Forgiveness

Fitting that I finished this book last night, just in time to include it in this list! Shuggie Bain won the Booker Prize in 2020 and was Stuart’s debut novel…and is now one of my six star reads of this year.

Shuggie Bain takes place in Thatcher-era 1980’s Glasgow, Scotland. Deindustrialization devastated the working class and pushed many families to rely on government benefits and public housing. Stuart portrays the decade in which the book takes place as a dreary, cold, and damp; describing not only the Scotland weather, but the overall moral of the City. The book feels as gray as the cover depicts. Hugh “Shuggie” Bain is the youngest of three kids in his family; cohabiting with his siblings, mother Agnes, and father Hugh “Big Shug”. The book centers around Agnes’ alcoholism and how it impacts her relationships, especially to Shuggie.

Forgiveness is very central throughout the entire book. While Shuggie’s siblings and Big Shug easily flee, abandoning their family in an attempt to save themselves, as Agnes slips deeper into alcoholism, Shuggie contends with his unwavering love and admiration for his mother. Shuggie’s love is unconditional, despite his mother’s constant abuse and neglect. His ceaseless forgiveness allows him to remain optimistic that his mother will one day return to sobriety.

If you haven’t read Shuggie Bain, it is every bit worth the read. It’s incredibly immersive and beautifully written and a powerful testament to alcoholism and addiction. The dialogue is written in native Scottish dialect, so proves to be a fun challenge for non-Scottish readers to decipher the dialogue. This is a really special book.

#2. The Vanishing Half by Britt Bennett - Identity

The Vanishing Half was THE book in 2020, and I haven’t heard about it much since then (maybe because everyone read it already?). It is a perfect book to include on this list however.

If you’re new to the book, The Vanishing Half is about a pair of identical twin sisters - Stella and Desiree - who grew up in Louisiana. Although black, their skin is extremely light, allowing Stella to “pass” as white in adulthood. Stella flees her family, losing contact, and marries a wealthy white man in California. Desiree remains in Louisiana with their mother, although always feeling the absence of her sister. Eventually, their two lives converge again.

There is a reason this book was so widely regarded; its unique and an incredible exploration of identity, especially rooted in deep historical racism and black culture. If you haven’t read it, I highly recommend grabbing it sooner rather than later!

#3. Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker - Motherhood

If you’ve been with me for a bit on Substack, you may know that Madwoman was one of my six star reads last year. The book follows a woman named Clove who escaped a traumatic childhood - filled with domestic abuse, violence, and a mother who murdered her own father - and has assumed a new identity and life. When Clove’s mother resurfaces in her life, Clove must confront the traumas of her past.

An incredibly insightful read on both trauma AND motherhood, Madwoman explores the insanity of expectations that fall on women in all aspects of motherhood, and the lengths women must go to in order to survive. The book moves in a dual timeline format, and readers will uncover the secrets of Clove’s past and childhood, while seeing firsthand how the trauma impacts her current life.

#4. My Sister, The Serial Killer - Loyalty

With a title like that…I remember seeing the book title and knew I immediately needed to read it. My Sister, The Serial Killer is an adept and humorous short read. Korede’s little sister Ayoola has picked up a bad habit of accidentally killing her boyfriends in the name of self defense. But instead of reporting her sister’s nefarious actions, Korede always answers Ayoola’s calls for help - showing up with bleach and gloves, prepared for body disposal.

If you’re worried about the gore in this book, don’t. I’m fairly queasy and don’t remember it being hard to stomach. My Sister, The Serial Killer is an excellent exploration of family loyalty, showing how far one sister will go to protect the other.

#5. A Family Matter by Claire Lynch - Custody

So often in cases of divorce, custody agreements over children prove to be complicated and contentious. In A Family Matter, Heron’s parents have been divorced for decades. Her father gained sole custody and her mother abandoned her completely - at least that is what she believes until she finds legal documents among her father’s belongings that explain otherwise. This novel packs a bunch and explores women’s rights in a harsh political landscape through the lens of divorce. I can’t say much more or I’ll give too much away! Definitely worth the read if it’s been on your list.

Honorable mention: This Is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman…I’ve just been talking about this book so much recently in other posts, I felt it was better suited to highlight other books. But This Is Not About Us is an EXCELLENT deep dive into family dynamics. Centered around a falling out between two sisters, each chapter serves as an almost “short story” on a member of the larger family tree. One of my six star reads this year!

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I am so excited for this booklist! As today is the first day of June and we can ~officially~ call it summer, I am dropping a big book guide! I thought I’d curate a summer reading list picking books based on their summery location (i.e. beach, lake, camp, etc) and/or vibe (romance, mystery, etc). This list will be a mix of books I’ve already read and books that are on my physical TBR so we can read them this summer together!

I asked paid subscribers on my last paid post what they wanted to see next, and this guide was it! Sorry for the delay in sending….I was on vacation with a sick dog beforehand and wasn’t finished wrapping it up! Hope it was worth the wait! It’s probably the longest I’ve ever worked on a post (happy tears streaming).

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Let’s get into the books!

New England Coastal

If you’ve ever been to any New England beach (Nantucket, Kennebunkport, Cape Cod, Rhode Island, and the list goes on and on), you know how special those beaches are. Filled with hot days, crisp nights, lobster rolls, caesar salads, and ice cream, here are 4 books that contain all the smells and sounds of the New England coast.

1. June Baby by Shannon Garvey (Block Island, RI): A heart breaking yet transformative story about Ruth, a young woman in the throughs of grief, who returns to Block Island where she has spent a decade of summers before. This is an emotional, yet light enough to read on the beach. You’ll feel the cool ocean water through the book. June Baby was released in May, and is currently listed on the NYT list of books to read this summer.

2. Wedding People by Alison Espach (Newport, RI): A funny, yet profound read about Phoebe who sort of kind of accidentally crashes a Newport, RI wedding (Taylor Swift anyone?!). You’ll laugh and cry into your lobster roll.

3. Laws of Love and Logic by Debra Curtis (Portsmouth, RI): A book about a woman named Lilly who is caught between the love of her past and her current love, where the love of her past is a summer filled teenage romance. It will transport you back to high school summer break.

4. Five Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand (Nantuckett, MA): This is on my physical TBR, so I haven’t yet read it, but it’s a TV show so I obviously need to read soon!

I also want to mention that has a book coming out in November, Love and Other Inucrable Ailments, that totally fits within this category! You’ll have to check it out!

Summer Lakeside Thrillers/Mysteries

When I think of a summer at the lake (summer camp anyone?!), I immediately smell sweat, chlorine, sunscreen, and woods. I can HEAR the mosquitos buzzing, and feel the cool lake water. If you’re looking for a jaw dropping twist while at the lake this summer, here are 5 books to read.

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Remember when I was like, “May you didn’t have to go that hard,” and then I listed 20 of my most anticipated book releases in May? And then May flew by without even a care in the world? And then June releases popped up? And now I have a list of 35?

Ok, yeah, me too.

I don’t have enough time or pairs of eye balls for this but….alas. My most anticipated June book releases (listed in order of release date).

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June 1

#1. Girl in the Lake by Lauren Oliver: A crime thriller with a female detective and the author is a Lauren. I don’t really need more than that.

June 2

#2. Lovers XXX by Allie Rowbottom: What better way to take down the patriarchy than with a historical fiction book on the porn industry?

#3. Girl’s Girl by Sonia Felman: A sapphic teenage romance/coming of age is just the world needs right now.

#4. Whistler by Ann Patchett: I haven’t yet read Ann Patchett please don’t come for me. This will be my first.

#5. Land by Maggie O’Farrell: As a loyal fall/October weather gal, I need to be in the essence of Ireland this summer.

#6. Hunger & Thirsty by Claire Fuller: I love Tin House books and I love this book cover and I love the exploration of female loneliness/belonging. That’s all you need to know.

#7. The Jellyfish Problem by Tessa Yang: Did anyone else as a child dream of being a marine biologist or was it just me?

#8. Muneca by Cynthia Gómez: It’s sapphic. It’s gothic. It’s witchy. It’s a DEBUT. I can be a list squeamish with horror and it depends for me, but I’m willing to take a chance for this one.

#9. The Kennedys and the Windsors by Caroline Hallemann: I want the tea.

June 9

#10. Pool House by Mary H.K. Choi: A pool house? In June? Groundbreaking. *adds to TBR* Also I’m currently listening to this!

#11. Nymph by Sofia Montrone: It’s giving me the vibes of Almost Life which was my favorite book this year. I just ended a giveaway for an ARC!

#12. Waist Deep Linea Maja Ernst: A “flirty modern midsummer nights dream”….O!K!

#13. Villa Coco Andrew Sean Greer: “Pulitzer Prize winner Andrew Sean Greer showcases his wit, sophistication and deep knowledge of focaccia in this magical tale set amidst the Tuscan hills.” Let’s get this bread.

#14. Social Animals by Camille Perri: It’s giving me Go Gentle vibes and I’m obsessed. I will never say no to a laugh.

#15. Rasputin Swims the Potomac by Ben Fountain: If you’re not laughing, you’re crying.

#16. Heather by Caitlin Mullen: For God of the Woods fans!? Hi I am here.

#17. Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See: You had me at three women surviving and thriving.

#18. Missed Connection by Tia Williams: I do believe that Sasha’s soulmate is the handsome Italian man in Seat F so I intend to help her find him.

June 16

#19. Little Wonder by Sophie Chen Keller: I LOVE THIS BOOK SO FAR! And I’m hosting a giveaway for an early copy!!!!! See my note here.

#20. Valley of the Moms by Hannah Selinger: A stepford wives-y thriller, I’m listening.

#21. The Emilys by Heather Abel: I’ll be honest, it’s the cover for me.

#22. Someone Else’s Husband by Kimberly McCreight: It’s a thriller about two women whose lives converge and they find themselves in a love triangle. I really have been in a thriller slump lately so crossing my fingers for this one.

#23. We Are Gathered Here Today by Bobby Finger: A gay man is second guessing his marriage while attending his cousin's chaotic wedding. Hailed as a hilarious and profound novel (my fave kind of book right now) and vibes of Wedding People? Yes, I’m in.

#24. A Year of Marvelous Ways by Sarah Winman: The cover art pulled me in, the “remarkably life-affirming novel” part had me seated.

#25. Three Hitmen and a Baby by Rob Hart: This title immediately gave me The Hangover vibes. Regardless, it sounds so fun and insane.

June 18

#26. The Secrets We Hide by Karin Slaughter: All I know is that Slaughter’s Pretty Girls had me seeking therapy after reading.

June 23

#27. It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell: I got approved for this ARC and I cannot wait!! Been in a a thriller slump for too long.

#28. When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams: This is giving me June Baby vibes so I’m excited to try! Got the ARC approval.

#29. Retro by Jessica M. Goldstein: I haven’t read a time travel book in a hot minute. Also another book cover that SLAYED.

#30. Skin Contact by Elisa Faison: I hope it’s about wine. I don’t think it is, but there’s only one way to find out.

#31. Abby Offsides by Anna McCallie: I too would run to Europe in the midst of a crisis.

June 28

#32. Beginning Middle End by Valeria Luiselli: What better for a summer read than a mother daughter duo traveling through Italy?

June 30

#33. Wasp’s Nest by Kat Stoddard: Again, I am in it for humorous profound exploration books and Wasp’s Nest is looking to be just that.

#34. The Shampoo Effect by Jenny Jackson: I am real big on shampoo. All jokes aside, I’m looking for some lighter romance-y beach reads for the summer and this looks lovely.

#35. Keep Them Close by David Ellis: I looooooove domestic thrillers with twisted families. Hoping this one has me on the edge of my SEAT!!!

#36. The Housewife by Natalie Barelli: Ditto everything I said in #34.

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May is Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month! I’ve compiled a list of 30 books by authors with AANHPI heritage, many of which are also cultural explorations of the author’s or author’s ancestors own experiences. There are so many INCREDIBLE books on this list. Let me know if there are any I need to add to my TBR stat!

Enjoy :)

My Recommendations

#1. Homeseeking by Karissa Chen

First on the list is obviously Homeseeking. This was my #2 book last year. A 500 page character driven book that left my in SHAMBLES! So incredible and it was also Karissa Chen’s debut! Can everyone just please go read it now? Ok thanks!

#2. The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong

I feel like Ocean Vuong’s work has recently become controversial/quite a hot topic….but I loved this book and all of the quirky characters in it.

#3. Audition by Katie Kitamura

What a trippy book. Upon finishing, I was scratching my head. Then I listened to the author’s NPR interview and I really understood the brilliance. This Booker Prize shortlist (it’s also very short) is definitely worth the read!

#4. A Guardian and a Thief by Megha Majumdar

An incredible exploration of emigration, climate change, and survival. You can read my Fiction Friday post on A Guardian and A Thief here. This book should be on everyone’s radar.

#5. Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino

This is a laugh out loud, gripping thriller. Definitely worth the hype and worth the read (audiobook is great)!

#6. Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

Before Tomorrowx3, there was Elsewhere. I read this book in middle school and it has stuck with me ever since. An incredible YA novel on death and grief, but very much worth the read for adults too.

#7. Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin

Yup.

#8. Strange Buildings by Uketsu

One of the coolest books I’ve ever read! You cannot do an audiobook for Strange Buildings, because you need pictures to help solve a mystery! I’ve heard readers liked Uketsu’s prior two books better, but I haven’t read those and without anything to compare, this was an easy 5 stars. You can see my in depth book review on Strange Buildings here.

#9. The Return of Ellie Black by Emiko Jean

This is one of my favorite suspense/thrillers of all time!! I guessed literally nothing right and stayed up way too late to finish reading.

#10. I Leave it Up to You by Jinwoo Lee

Jack Jr. wakes up after being in a coma for 2 years; everything in his life is gone - boyfriend, job, apartment - and he hasn’t seen his family in 10 years. A beautiful book on family and life’s second chances. Definitely worth the read!

#11. Local Heavens by K.M. Fajardo

I haven’t heard anyone talk about Local Heavens, so I am here too! This is a futuristic/sci-fi retelling of The Great Gatsby although does deviate from the original storyline. I liked it although at times had trouble following some of the tech talk, nevertheless I did enjoy and think others will too!

#12. Julie Chan is Dead by Liann Zhang

This book is NOT going to be for everyone: it starts out intriguing enough and then it does go off the rails. But if it sounds interesting to you, go for it…and buckle up!!!

#13. My Documents by Kevin Nguyen

This actually isn’t a favorite book of mine on this list, but mostly because I loved the authors exploration and I simply just wanted more. But the premise of this book is very interesting and eerily too relevant.

#14. Yellowface by R.F. Change

Excellent expose on the absurdity of entitlement when it comes to cultural appropriation/minority cultural. Yellowface is buzzy for a reason, although I feel like it’s also controversial? It’s worth a read!

#15. Crying in H-Mart by Michelle Zauner

I’m a harsh critic of a memoir these days, mostly because the market is oversaturated with mediocre and boring celebrity memoirs (sorry!). But this is a good one. I am crying.

Books on My Physical TBR

I am limiting this to strictly books I have on my physical TBR (books on the shelf, eARCs/eALCs, kindle copies, audiobooks, library holds) because if I went for all of the books by AANHPI authors that I want to read….this post would take me hours!

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I hope if you’re a mother, you’re enjoying some time with family or much deserved R&R. If Mother’s Day is difficult holiday for you, my heart goes out to you.

As all of us readers know, mothers are a critical character type in books. Depictions of motherhood in books can be beautiful but also quite complicated! I decided to compile a book list that encompass the joy, complexity, grief, humor, and more all involved in motherhood. Oh and BONUS! My mom is a HUGE reader, so I’ve included 5 of her favorite books that she recommends :)

5 Book Recommendations from My Mom!

These are all books that I haven’t read (yet) and my mom recommends over and over! Some of her favorite titles of all time. As you can see, there seems to be a theme (my mom really loves books….about books!). Have you read any of these!?

Here are a list of books I’ve compiled with prominent mothers folded into the story. Not all of the book recommendations here showcase the good side of maternal relationships or maternity. I asked my mom if it would be offensive to include books exhibit difficult topics related to motherhood, as this is largely meant to be a celebratory day. She agreed that some of the best books for discussion and reflection are often times unsettling. But growth is sometimes rooted in difficult conversations and I don’t necessarily want to shy away from deeper themes. So I’ve got some uplifting books, and some reflective books, all including or related to maternity or maternal relationships. I hope you enjoy!

The #1 Grandma-Mom Ever

I finished this book within the last week, and it was the EASIEST 5 stars. It’s about 77 year old Pepper Mills who - after her retirement home “prom” - becomes…..pregnant. I’m delayed on getting a weekly reads roundup to my subscribers, but hoping to include a review there….or maybe a Fiction Friday feature? But Pepper Mills is the top tier best book mom (well, and grandma). I love her with my whole heart.

The Unconventional, Loving Mom

Depictions of motherhood in Love by the Book are spectacular, but also unique. It’s a beautiful tribute to mothers who mother in different ways, but have no less love for their children. I loved the mother-daughter relationships!

The Forever Searching Mother

The Book of Lost Hours was one of my six star reads last year. I can’t give any spoilers away related to the relationships, but this book made my heart explode.

The Fiercest Protector

A Guardian and a Thief is an incredible read. You can see the longer review I wrote on it here. The chapters alternate between two POVs, one of which is Ma, the mother of Mishti. Much of the book focuses on Ma’s unyielding desire to protect her daughter. The explorations in this book are quite profound and although this is a heavier read, it’s an important one.

Mothers in Family Dynamics

Although not a book specifically about a maternal relationship, This is Not About Us offers multiple storylines weaved into family dynamics, much of which is humorous. You probably saw this as my #2 book of the year so far on my Top 5 Books from the First Five Months of 2026. This book isn’t going to be for everyone.

The Cuckoo for Cocoa Puffs Mother

On the satirical side, Best Offer Wins is a gripping, hilarious look into the suburban married woman trope. As I said on my Goodreads rating, “nothing sends a suburban woman into a spiral more than a house or a baby!”. This is a great thriller to add to your TBR.

A Satirical Look on Motherhood

I believe that I am quite literally the only person that liked this book. Yes, it’s a book about a cannibalistic sorority, but hear me about. This is a full on satire that had me cackling. There is a LOT of discourse on one of the main character’s venture into motherhood and the balancing act of being a working mom.

A Grieving Mother

No one knows about this book and no one is talking about it and I’m hoping to change that. Our Numbered Bones is a poetic, poignant read, exploring one woman’s venture confronting loss. I swear I stopped breathing while reading one of the chapters. Hoping to do a re-read and a longer post on it soon.

The Reflective Mother

For those who haven’t read it, the book is written in the format of Sybil’s letters and emails (correspondence!) to various friends, family, and random persons. But the book is really about her reflections on her son who passed away at very young age. I did in fact sob for the last 1.5 hours straight with no breaths.

The Motherless

I’ve been posting a LOT about Kin (and it was ’s April book pick). This is a beautiful exploration on how two women navigate their lives having grown up without their mothers.

The Madwoman

Hailed as a thriller - which is sort of true - Madwoman is a powerhouse novel about motherhood, trauma, and the complete insanity of what it takes to survive as a woman. This was a six star read for me last year.

The Definition of Mommy-Problems

Yes, it is kind of cynical for me to include Animal on this list. This book is INSANE and probably the most disturbing on this list. However, it is one of my favorite books of all time and an unbelievable exploration into motherhood and trauma. You can see my full length review here.

Please leave a comment if anything resonated with you or you have a differing opinion. Respectful discussion and discourse is always encouraged!

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Happy May 5th! I am hosting this month’s 5 on Five, a bookish link party created by over at . It’s a fun opportunity to share five books on the 5th of each month with an optional theme. will host June and the optional theme will be fractured families. You can read more about it here; maybe you can host a month soon ;)

Books allow us humans to live different lives; meet different people; experience different cultures; and explore historical truths or, untruths. There are few people out there who would discount the significance that storytelling - in a verbal or written form- has had on civilization (Yah, I know Andrew Tate is a book hater, but no one here actually listens to that guy….right??? Ok good). Stories provide us so much. Some revel in the escape that a fictional world can render, savoring the emotional and empathic enrichment. Some enjoy a reconnaissance mission to augment an idea or knowledge gap. Others relish the entertainment from an exhilarating story or mystery. All types of stories are valid and important; the abundance of genres and mediums available to access storytelling help us humans stay connected to each other and the rest of the world.

I will always say this here on my Substack but, if you’re reading, I’m happy. Whether that is a physical book or audiobook. Whether that is romantasy, non-fiction, or sci-fi. Our book tastes do not have to even be remotely the same, but we can respect each other for partaking. That is why I am so excited for today’s 5 on Five. Because if I know bookish people, I know that there is nothing more that we love (in the book sphere that is [did I just coin a new term?!]) than gushing over our favorite books. I cannot wait to read about bookstacker’s favorites, add to my already overwhelmed and weeping TBR, and swoon over mine.

Someone reminded me the other day, “if you’re not laughing, you’re crying,” and I immediately responded, “and sometimes you’re doing both!”. When I think about my favorite books - books that I will recommend to readers over and over again - it’s the ones that struck all of my emotional chords. The books that stick are the ones that have me curled over, full body sobbing, or clutching my stomach while I belly laugh. And then there are the rare few that evoke both so effortlessly. My favorite books are ones that emotionally destroy me in some way or another. So without further ado….these are my top 5 books from the first five months of 2026 (try to say that 10x fast). Proceed with caution because, if you dare to add any to your TBR, you’ll need to invest in some tissue boxes.

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Books are ranked favorite to “least” favorite (that seems harsh??)

#1. Almost Life by Kiran Harwood Millgrave

Laughing or crying?: sob sob sob sob, tear tear tear tear. did I laugh? no. probably no time in between the tears!

Almost Life follows two women - Laure and Erica - who meet one day at the Sacré-Cœur amidst the Paris summer in the 1970s. Laure is a French woman in her 20s pursuing her PhD in Art at The Sorbonne. Laure is constantly smoking and drinking, having an affair with an older married woman, and is tied to the hip with her group of eclectic queer friends. Erica is an English 18 year old who will be starting university in the fall and has a brimming innocence about her and a desire for adventure. Upon meeting, there is an instant flicker of connection that sparks in each a curiosity about the other. Laure invites Erica to attend a reading at a local bookshop the next day and offsets the most epic of summer romances and decades of the most heartbreaking love story. This is a literary fiction sapphic love story rather than a romance.

My achey, weary, broken forever heart. I finished Almost Life over a month ago and I am crying NOW, whilst writing this nondescript paragraph. I am utterly obsessed with this book. Heart the Lover was a big title last year, and for good reason. That is a coveted six star title for me. But if Heart the Lover is a flight across the world, then Almost Life is a trip to the freaking moon. I don’t know why more people aren’t talking about this book, but they should. But proceed with caution. You can hear more of my blubbering nonsense in my review here. Almost Life is my number one book of the year and I’m 99% sure nothing else will top it.

#2. This is Not About Us by Allegra Goodman

Laughing or crying?: out loud cackling in places where it’s probably inappropriate to laugh (like a hospital room?? lol)

The first chapter introduces us to three sisters: Sylvia, Helen, and Jeanne. Jeanne passes away in hospice care from lung cancer and an incident at Jeanne’s celebration of life sparks a decades long estrangement between Sylvia and Helen. The book’s subsequent chapters follow a nonlinear timeline and zoom into different family members (think of each chapter is a short story about an individual family member) and their lives within the family tree. We have Phoebe the eccentric and ultra eco/vegan granddaughter, Richard the divorcee and secret smoker with two young girls, Lily a daughter with anxiety and an obsession with writing, and so many more! All chapters have subtle nods back to the titular theme This Is Not About Us.

I think it’s possible that some books reach us at a time when we need them most. Simultaneously, there is a time and place where a book doesn’t stand a chance. For me? This Is Not About Us was a book that I really, REALLY needed and it came to me with impeccable timing. I was in a life lull, having a hard time reading, or finding other therapeutic activities. And then I started an eARC of This is Not About Us. So this book isn’t really….about anything? There’s no linear or neat plot structure. It’s just about a whacky and fairly relatable family; but my god did I belly laugh out LOUD! I found this one of the most unputdownable books I’ve ever read in my life. I convinced myself that it was a good idea to stay up late and finish the book (spoiler: I fell fast asleep moments later and woke up the next AM with my kindle underneath my face). I don’t know if this book will be for everyone; you’d have to be OK with a collection of stories rather than a traditional book. But no one else has to like This is Not About Us because I DO! That is all (oh you can see my book review here).

#3. The Correspondent by Virginia Evans

Laughing or crying?: some light giggling the first 75% and full body sobs the ENTIRE last 25%

The Correspondent is a compilation of letters and emails to and from Sybil Van Antwerp, our female protagonist. At first readers find that Sybil is a stingy, older woman who, maybe at times is a little annoying and persistent. But as we further venture further into Sybil’s correspondence, readers fall in love with her. This book is about love, loss, grief, regrets…life.

Sometimes I feel that, recommending this very mainstream, well-loved book will kill any potential cool book girl vibe I have, but then I remember, I’ve never been a cool girl and I’m doing just dandy. This book was incredible and I actually wasn't convinced it would be for the first 3/4. The Correspondent sneaks up on you though. I listened to the audiobook and sat for the last hour and a half with my head in my hands, sobbing my eyes out at our kitchen table. I think the best books make us realize how much we care, without even knowing it. It’s a simple read, but it’s no wonder this was a widespread hit. Trust the popularity on this one.

#4. Love by the Books by Jessica George

Laughing or crying?: laughing laughing laughing through happy happy tears

Love by the Book is about two women in London in their thirties: Remy and Simone. Remy is an author whose debut novel These Four Friendswas a huge hit. It was based on her close knit friend group consisting of four women. Simone is a passionate teacher with a slightly taboo side hustle who is best friends with her sister. Both women are living seemingly happy until ripples in their close friendships agitate their lives. Love by the Book is truly a romance novel, but about friendships.

Can I just say that I don’t even LIKE romance books that much? I mean I do - but not like this!!! I loved this book. I’m in my early thirties, encountering so many lifestyle and friendship changes that oftentimes feels overwhelming and downright depressing. Not only did this book hit every single emotion, thought, feeling, experience I’ve had in the last couple years, but it also gave me a lot of hope. I don’t think everyone will love this book as much as I do for the sake of relatability. I am obsessed and you can read my longer review here.

#5. Kin by Tayari Jones

Laughing or crying?: </3 </3 </3 weeping

I first picked up Kin in February, after I’d been approved for an eARC through Net Galley. At the time, something about the story wasn’t quite landing for me. It wasn’t Jones’ writing or storytelling, actually quite the opposite. I knew this would be a deeply profound novel, but I did not feel that I was in a headspace to properly receive it. So I tabled Kin for later. Then, voted Kin as the first book club title (we read in April! discussion still open!), and I am beyond ecstatic we did.

Kin is about two women, Vernice and Annie, who grow up in Honeysuckle, Louisiana. Both lost their mothers at a young age; Vernice’s mother was murdered by her father and Annie’s mother fled soon after Annie was born. Annie and Vernice, the “cradle friends”, part ways at 18 years to venture into the world. Their divergence allows them to explore family in every sense of the word, while they always find their way back to each other.

I don’t have formulated thoughts for Kin yet; I don’t even know how to start my Net Galley review (and those who know, know it’s important to maintain that feedback ratio!). I loved this book so much while simultaneously felt my heart break between each page. Tayari Jones is a masterful writer and crafted such a beautiful, gut-wrenching story. There is so much folded into this book that I’ve been sitting with for about a week. Wow. Just….go read it. Ok????

Please leave a comment if anything resonated with you or you have a differing opinion. Respectful discussion and discourse is always encouraged!

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April? I hardly know her. Actually - did I even meet her? I was planning on putting together this book list, originally thinking May was next week, but here we are.

Anyways, May is upon us and has a lot of amazing books coming out. Like….a lot. So these are my most anticipated reads that you should maybe, probably add to your radar and TBR! My TBR is weeping in the corner.

I do this book list every month! If you missed it, check out April’s list here.

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1. Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett (pub. May 5)

The author of The Help, Kathryn Stockett, has finally come out with a new book! I got approved for the eARC and will be avoiding all my responsibilities and socializing with no one while I finish this weekend. I cannot freaking WAIT!

2. Enormous Wings by Laurie Frankel (pub. May 5)

I’m listening to an ALC of this right now and I’m obsessed. A elderly woman named Pepper moves into a retirement home and goes to a prom and finds love?? Not sure if that is actually what the book is about but that’s what I’ve gotten through so far. It’s so sweet and endearing and funny!

3. John of John by Douglas Stuart (pub. May 5)

   

   Obviously excited for this as Shuggie Bain is ’s May book club pick! You should maybe join us (see here hehe).

4. The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout (pub. May 5)

   

   I don’t need to say more.

5. Homebound by Portia Elan (pub. May 5)

   

   After finally seeing Project Hail Mary in theaters and watching the Artemis landing (on the same day for me!), I am really leaning into my space girl Zenon era (let me be your supernova girllll).

6. Look What You Made Me Do by John Lancaster (pub. May 5)

   

   “A black comedy of love, trust, resentment, and entitlement”….yeah, that’s about all I need to add this to my TBR.

7. Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune (pub. May 5)

Romance is not a genre I typically pick up, but Carley Fortune is my friend’s favorite author, and with summer incoming, a romantic beach read sounds lovely.

8. Five by Ilona Bannister (pub. May 5)

   

I feel like Five is giving me squid games vibes?? Anyways, sounds creepy and thrilling. Sign me up.

9. Good Joy Bad Joy Mikki Brammer (pub. May 5)

An elderly woman confronting her life’s choices and her friend’s pending death. I feel like this is a mix of The Bucketlist and The Correspondent - exploring life’s regrets, second chances, and making the most of our days on Earth.

10. Girls Our Age by Phoebe Thompson (pub. May 5)

    

    This is about three women navigating life in their late twenties. If I’m being honest, I’m excited to reflect back on that part of my life (….I’m in my thirties that was like 5 years ago LOL) and see how far I’ve come!

11. The Anniversary by Alex Finlay (pub. May 12)

I’ve never read any Alex Finlay, so excited to try this out! I also haven’t read a good thriller in quite a bit, so hoping this is insane enough that I clean my whole house while listening to the audiobook (got the ALC and plan to listen next after finishing Enormous Wings).

12. A Parade of Horribles by Matt Dinniman (pub. May 12)

The 8th book in the incredible popular and bestselling Dungeon Crawler Carl series is coming out! I’ve got some catching up to do…

13. The Good Eye by Jess Gibson (pub. May 12)

Art, crime, fantasy, and a mischievous story teller?! Why am I not reading more short stories.

14. June Baby by Shannon Garvey (pub. May 12)

I do need a coming of age book set on the East Coast during summer to quell my nostalgia.

15. Nerve Damage by Annakeara Stinson (pub. May 12)

A woman is seeking revenge on her stalker ex boyfriend by stalking him….this book cannot come out sooner.

16. The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff (pub. May 19)

I am a sucker for a family drama/saga. I got approved for this ARC so hope to dive in soon!

17. Take Me With You by Steven Rowley (pub. May 19)

I requested a copy of this eARC for no other reason than the cover included a Joshua Tree and it was colorful and pretty. The book itself does sound great, but I stand by my initial logic.

18. Hungered by Amanda Rizkalla (pub. May 19)

For readers of A House on Mango Street, this sounds like a beautiful debut novel.

19. Canon by Paige Lewis (pub. May 19)

I don’t read fantasy typically (and ESPECIALLY if there are dragons) but I actually thought this sounded so good and I love the cover. There is a WHALE! It was also my Book of the Month pick!

20. The Midnight Train by Matt Haig (pub. May 26)

A follow up to The Midnight Library!? Say less!

#???. Shy Girl by Mia Ballard (pub. never)

I realize that adding Shy Girl onto this list is cheating, as this book is no longer being published, having been pulled because of suspected use of AI. I was approved for the ARC many months back and the original publication date was in May. I am considering still reading it to see what my personal thoughts are on the AI usage. Would subscribers be interested in a post/review about it?

Please leave a comment if anything resonated with you or you have a differing opinion. Respectful discussion and discourse is always encouraged!

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Yes, you are probably getting sick of me gushing about Almost Life which is a book I finished a few weeks ago. I’ve already declared it will be my top book of the year (see post here). Both Lily King and Kiran Millwood Hargrave are truly masters at character development. Both books present readers with complex, beautiful characters that yearn for a somewhat forbidden love. Almost Life broke my heart completely in the same way that Heart the Lover did. Although different timelines, subject matters, and love arcs, both books evoked the same emotions in me. Just trust me on this one!

I am among the smaller percentage on the internet that LOVED The Ten Year Affair. I am not sure why readers are so anti. Maybe because affairs are a nefarious and contentious topic? The characters were grossly flawed and unlikeable? Despite all that, The Ten Year Affair was a sharp, witty read. I think those that liked The Ten Year Affair will appreciate This is Not About Us.

I found The Correspondent to be a very surprising read; I absolutely LOVED it despite initially being hesitant, with all of the hype centered around the book. The writing in The Correspondent is quite simple without poetic or overly literary prose. Woven within the simple story are powerful messages about love, loss, and regrets. Twice felt similar in style and vibes, providing profound messaging in an uncomplicated story. Both were easy to read, both made me sob my eyes out.

The ENTIRE time I was reading Laws of Love and Logic, I kept thinking to myself, “readers of Broken Country would like this.” They just feel similar in the type of love story, the writing style, the grappling with decisions, and the vibes. I have nothing more to add, this was based purely on instinct!

This could be a stretch but i’m going for it. I just finished Love is an Algorithm literally 4 hours ago and I was surprised by how much I liked it. Like Everyone In This Room Will Someday Be Dead, Love is an Algorithm was SUPER relatable, approached deeper topics with lighthearted writing, was comedic and surprisingly witty. I think for me, it’s really the writing style that felt comparable between the two books. I’ll be writing more about Love is an Algorithm potentially in a separate book review and DEFINITELY in this upcoming Sunday’s weekly roundup post.

Please leave a comment if anything resonated with you or you have a differing opinion. Respectful discussion and discourse is always encouraged!

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But a new month means brand new book releases and I am excited to share 1 that I’ve already read and 11 that are on my radar!

What I’ve Read

1. Love By The Book by Jessica George

I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! You may remember me gushing about it here. Have no fear, this upcoming Fiction Friday’s post will be about Love By The Book as it is being published April 7!!

What’s On My TBR

2. Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke ()

   One of my most anticipated reads in March! Mentioned this one on ’s curated Read’s With Friends Post! Yesteryear is a book about a social media influencer Natalie who is seemingly living the perfect life—on and off camera. Then one day, she wakes up and her life is completely different. As I spend more time off social media, I seem to be reading more books ABOUT social media. Funny how that works.

3. My Dear You by Rachel Khong ()

   I love a good short story book and I know almost nothing about this book except that it’s been getting a LOT of buzz and good early reviews. I just downloaded my copy from Net Galley!

4. Go Gentle by Maria Semple

I mean the cover ALONE of this book is incredible. This is one of the first ARCs I got approved for through Net Galley when I started requesting and reviewing last August! I’m really not a romance reading (maybe an occasional Emily Henry if I’m in the mood) but I do love a literary fiction romance. Having lived in NYC for 8 years, I am especially excited for nostalgic bits of my fave city!

5. Wolvers by Taylor Brown

   I’m not at all familiar with Taylor Brown’s work but he seems to be a smaller, award-winning author. I’m hoping for something with similar vibes to No Country for Old Men (fantastic book!!!!). I think as a bookstacker, it feels like my DUTY to read and review lesser known works of fiction and tell readers about them!

6. The Witch by Marie NDiaye

I normally would save a witchy book for October, but I may not be able to wait until then to read The Witch. It was just announced that The Witch made the International Booker Prize short list for 2026! Say less!

7. Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth ()

   An 81 year old murderer? Old ladies are always such a hoot. Seems fun, I’m in!

8. American Fantasy by Emma Straub ()

   I’m 0/2 on band books for the year (liked but didn’t love Wait for Me and The Future Saints) so I am looking for a redemption book. American Fantasy is getting a LOT of hype. I already have my audiobook pre-ordered! I’m also irrationally afraid of cruises so we’ll see how this goes.

9. Permanence by Sophie Mackintosh ()

   The premise of Permanence is giving a combo of Don’t Worry Darling (the movie) and The Ten Year Affair (book by Erin Sommers). I cannot WAIT to read this! Not to mention the book cover is chefs kiss.

10. Ghost Town by Tom Perrotta

A coming of age novel by the iconic Tom Perrotta. I’ve been drawn to men coming of age stories lately. Maybe my way of trying to make sense of the world.

11. Harmless by Miranda Shulman ()

Hailed as a literary thriller about a rekindling connection between a woman whose sister just passed and her deceased sister’s two longtime friends. But there’s a SECRET!? You’ve got my attention! Miranda Shulman just seems like an awesome person (majored in Human Rights and worked for Planned Parenthood) and this is her debut novel. Also, a Brooklyn based book with olives on the cover is really making me grave a dirty gin martini right about now (11AM in San Diego…).

12. Liars Dice by Juliet Faithfull

I just know this book is going to break my heart. And I’m ready for it.

Please leave a comment if anything resonated with you or you have a differing opinion. Respectful discussion and discourse is always encouraged!

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Women are beautiful, strong, empathetic, nurturing, and fierce all at the same and I find it so empowering to be part of womanhood. Women’s History Month means celebrating the accomplishments women have achieved and contributions to society despite inequality and injustice. For this booklist, I wanted to do something a little different. Sure, I could include a list of books akin to The Women by Kristin Hannah (besides, most people have read it anyways!) or books portraying strong female protagonists who fight evil and falls in love with their male counterpart. I wanted to include books that encapsulated everything that it means to be a woman, and everything that women go through: the good, the bad, the ugly, the hard, the tender, and all moments in between.

The books I have in this list for you are books that stole my heart, that made me feel seen, and fed the flame that is empowered womanhood. And, this list is for men too!

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1. Madwoman by Chelsea Bieker

   Is she mad, or is she just a woman living in this world? A question I continually asked myself while reading ’s Madwoman. Bieker captures motherhood and womanhood so effortlessly in Madwoman: the struggle of trauma, the love for one’s children, the power dynamics between mother and father, forgiveness….and so much more. This was a powerhouse novel about womanhood (and yes, a little bit of a thriller too) that I hope everyone reads.

   

2. Tilt by Emma Pattee

   Mothers (including pregnant women, duh) are the real heroes. We can all agree on that. Now imagine a 9 months pregnant woman who is shopping at IKEA when a devastating Earthquake hits. Tilt shows us the strength of women and women’s love.

   

3. The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali

   A heartbreaking book about two women fostering friendship across decades and during political turmoil in Iran. Homa is probably one of my all time favorite female characters so I naturally had to include this book on this list.

   

4. Love by the Book by Jessica George

   You probably remember me GUSHING about this book in one of my weekly reads roundups. This book perfectly encapsulates navigating female friendships in one’s 30s with the two most incredible female characters. I’ll be posting a longer review on this book soon before it publishes in April. I felt so seen by Love by the Book and have recommended it to all of my friends (I am in fact, a woman navigating changing female friendships in my 30s).

   

5. Boom Town by Nic Stone

   I’m not sure why Boom Town’s Goodreads rating is so low. Maybe because it is marketed as a thriller but it’s more of a slow burn? Regardless, this was a five star read for me. I was so deeply invested in the story and the female characters. Boom Town is about female sex workers who are looking for fellow women who’ve gone missing and teaming up to take down the men in charge.

   

6. Girl Dinner by Olivie Blake

   Ok don’t roll your eyes at me. I know how it may SEEM that I am including a book about a cannibalistic sorority on this list. But Girl Dinner is a sharp and witty satire about being a woman. It’s ridiculous, it’s hilarious, and it’s eerily familiar. See my Goodreads review here.

   

7. Everyone in This Room Will Someday Be Dead by Emily Austin

   This was one of the most honest, beautiful, and non-irritating perspectives on major anxiety and depression. Gilda - our queer, anxious, female protagonist - is everything.

   

8. Our Numbered Bones by Katya Balen

   It’s a beautiful book with poetic prose about loss and grief from a female’s perspective. It’s hard to write more about it without spoiling, but I loved this book. I hope someone else does too.

   

9. Animal by Lisa Taddeo

   “There is nothing more insane than being a woman” is exactly how I started my Goodreads review for Animal. Animal is not a pretty story, but it’s a powerful one. I do a deeper dive in my review here.

   

10. Heart the Lover by Lily King

    Last but certainly not least, Heart the Lover is the most beautiful love story that showcases the tenderness and love of our female narrator, Casey (known as Jordan through the majority of the book). This book is EVERYTHING!