If you’re thinking of stepping up your reading game, consider mixing in some new books just coming to market with older books that you may have missed.
I like variety. For example, I love historical fiction but often read light contemporary women’s fiction. But I also pick up the occasional sci-fi or dystopian novel, like The Handmaid’s Tale or the current best-selling book Klara and the Sun. Other times, I read romance or memoirs. Of course, I also try to read outside my comfort zone, and truthfully, most of the time, I’m pleasantly surprised. But, of course, I never entirely abandon my favorite genres – that would be like throwing away my comfy sweat pants.
Now, I know you probably have a busy schedule, so I’ve pulled together a nice mix for you to browse. So keep reading and hopefully find a great book.
“A truly good book is something as natural, and as unexpectedly and unaccountably fair and perfect, as a wild flower discovered on the prairies of the West or in the jungles of the East.” – Henry David Thoreau,
Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I’m sure I’m not alone but, I loved Taylor Jenkins Reid’s previous work, The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. So, I couldn’t wait for her next book. Although I didn’t find this one quite as engaging, I still enjoyed it immensely. Taylor Jenkins Reid has a gift for developing characters that you can relate to. This is a beautiful story about love, family, and life. A Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick.
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The Wife Upstairs by Rachel Hawkins
This is a modern take on the classic Jane Eyre, only it’s pretty original, and the characters are not what you expect in a Bronte novel. There are not too many similarities in the plot either that I could see. So, take it for what it is. An excellent domestic thriller set in a wealthy suburb of Alabama. I don’t know too many Southern “country club” women, but it seems like the author was spot on with them. There are many plot twists; it’s suspenseful and well-paced. All in all, this is a good psychological thriller that kept me guessing. The ending surprised me.
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Sparks Like Stars by Nadia Hashimi
Set in 1978 Afghanistan and 2008 New York City, this is a beautiful and compelling story about a young girl that is changed forever by events in her life. Her father works for the President of Afghanistan. There is a coup to overthrow the government; Sitara is the sole survivor. The rest of her family and the family of the President are murdered. In the present day thread of this book, which is not quite as strong, Sitara is an adult who is seeking closure and answers. Excellent historical fiction. Excellent book club pick.
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The Lost Apothecary. by Sarah Penner
This is an excellent debut novel about three women, two from the 1780s and one present day. Of course, I liked the historical fiction part better (so typical of me). Still, both threads are fascinating, and I liked all the characters. The book’s heart is about Nella, an Apothecary who makes poisonous potions for women seeking revenge on their husbands. She does it well too. A fascinating read and a perfect book club selection.
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The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett
I love the general plot, light-skinned Black identical twins who take vastly different paths in life. One marries a White man and lives in secret as a White woman, while The other twin lives as a black woman. Throughout the story, many themes pop up, such as identity, wealth, and poverty.
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And as promised, a few of my not-so-new favorites. I have or will re-read these. I loved them.
The Wife Between Us by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
This is a compelling, suspenseful psychological thriller with plot twists that will keep you guessing. It looks at the lies, secrets, and betrayals that happen in a marriage. And the consequences. The writing is good, and the dialog is honest.
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Magpie Murders by Anthony Horowitz
If you like who-done-its, don’t miss this one. It’s clever. You really get two Mysteries in one, as it’s a book within a book. Right from the start, you know it’s the kind of book you won’t want to end. And both mysteries are equally intriguing.
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