Adult Books
May – “The Conjuring of America” by Lindsey Stewart
A thoughtful look at the myths and cultural forces that have shaped America. Blending history with folklore and tradition, it explores how storytelling influences the world around us in ways we don’t always notice. Best for: Curious readers who enjoy history with cultural insight.
May – “Too Soon” by Betty Shamieh
Funny, sharp, and very human, this novel follows a Palestinian American woman as she navigates love, ambition, and identity in a world full of expectations. It asks big questions about belonging and timing, all with a light, witty touch. Best for: Readers who like character-driven stories with humor, heart, and something to say.
April – “Rooted in Fire” by Pyet DeSpain
Chef Pyet DeSpain blends memoir, cultural history, and recipes in this exploration of Indigenous and Mexican culinary traditions. Through personal stories and dishes drawn from her heritage, she reflects on the connections between food, identity, and community. The book highlights how cooking can preserve culture and tradition across generations.
April – “The Orchard” by Peter Heller
In rural Vermont, a mother and daughter live a quiet, off-grid life surrounded by orchards, books, and the natural world. Their peaceful routine is disrupted when a stranger enters their lives, setting off unexpected changes. Through vivid landscapes and reflective prose, the novel explores memory, loss, and the bond between parent and child.
March – “Sunk in Love” by Heather McBreen
Sunk in Love is a contemporary romance about a married couple rediscovering love and hope. On the verge of divorce, main characters Roslyn and Liam pretend to be together for a family vacation. Warm, relatable, and full of heart, this novel shows that sometimes the most meaningful connections come when you least expect them.
March – “Wild Reverence” by Rebecca Ross
In this standalone novel, Rebecca Ross returns to the same universe as Divine Rivals while crafting a story that requires no commitment to a larger series. With her signature lyrical style, she weaves a tale filled with longing, nature, and emotion. It is perfect for longtime fans eager to revisit this world, as well as new readers who want a complete and satisfying story all on its own.
March – “Finding My Way” by Malala Yousafzai
In this powerful memoir, Malala shares her story in her own words. It is honest, hopeful, and deeply inspiring. She describes what it was like to grow up standing up for girls’ education and learning to use her voice, even when doing so put her in danger. This is great for readers who want a quick but moving read that captures the remarkable courage one person can have.
February – “A Pirate’s Life for Tea” by Rebecca Thorne (Book Two of Tomes & Tea)
The second book in the Tomes & Tea series continues the cozy fantasy vibes…with pirates! A retired royal guard and a powerful mage get pulled into high-seas hijinks while trying to protect their found family. A fun choice for readers who like low-stress fantasy with humor and heart.
February – “The Aviator and The Showman” by Laurie Gwen
This nonfiction read takes a closer look at Amelia Earhart’s marriage to George Putnam and how it helped shape her public image. It explores their personal and professional partnership, along with the pressures of fame and media. A good pick for readers interested in history, biography, and behind-the-scenes stories.
February – “The Way to a Beautiful World” by James Norbury
A thoughtful, meditative book from the creator of Big Panda & Tiny Dragon. Through short reflections and illustrations, this book explores kindness, resilience, and how to keep going when the world feels heavy. A nice choice for readers who want to sit down with a cup of tea and reflect on what truly matters.
January – “Illustrator’s Sketchbooks” by Martin Salisbury
A behind-the-scenes look at how illustrators actually work. Filled with real sketchbooks and notes, it shows ideas in progress…messy, playful, and unfinished. A great one to flip through if you love seeing how creativity really happens.
January – “The Taylor Book” by Malcolm MacKenzie
An unofficial, fan-friendly guide to Taylor Swift’s music, career, and many eras. A peek into her songwriting, cultural impact, and why this work resonates with so many people. A fun pick for longtime fans or anyone curious about the Taylor phenomenon.
January – “The Woman in Suite 11 (Lo Blacklock #2)” by Ruth Ware
Ruth Ware delivers another fast-paced thriller full of secrets and twists, featuring journalist Lo Blacklock. An easy pick if you’re in the mood for suspense you can’t put down. A sequel to The Woman in Cabin 10, but it also works as a standalone.
December – “Writing Creativity and Soul” by Sue Monk Kidd
Sue Monk Kidd reflects on how creativity and spirituality weave together in everyday life. Through personal stories and gentle guidance, she talks about slowing down, paying attention, and finding your true voice on the page. It’s an encouraging, thoughtful read for anyone wanting to reconnect with their creativity.
December – “The Cook’s Garden” by Kevin West
Kevin West celebrates the simple magic of growing food and cooking with what’s right outside your back door. Part gardening guide, part kitchen inspiration, this book wanders through the seasons with practical tips, lovely stories, and recipes that make the most of fresh herbs, veggies, and fruit. It’s a great pick for anyone who loves tending a garden and turning those harvests into something delicious.
December – “The Golden Girls: Tales from the Lanai” edited by Taylor Cole Miller and Alfred L. Martin Jr.
This affectionate look back at The Golden Girls brings readers right onto the lanai with Blanche, Dorothy, Rose, and Sophia. Miller and Martin blend behind-the-scenes moments, thoughtful commentary, and plenty of heart to capture why the show still feels like home decades later. This cozy read is perfect for anyone who grew up laughing with these four friends and still reaches for cheesecake when they need comfort.
May – “Heart of the Jaguar” by James Campbell
An immersive adventure set deep in the rainforest, where survival, discovery, and danger all come into play. The setting feels vivid and alive, capturing both the beauty and the tension of the natural world.
Best for: Readers who enjoy fast-paced adventures, and stories focused on nature and resilience.
May – “Copperspoon Chronicles Cookbook” by Emily Teuscher
More than just a cookbook, this one feels like a cozy visit. Each recipe comes with a sense of warmth and nostalgia, making it just as enjoyable to read as it is to cook from. It’s the kind of book you’ll want nearby while something good is simmering on the stove. Best for: Home cooks, cozy fantasy fans, and anyone who loves a recipe with a story behind it.
May – “The Sunshine Man” by Emma Stonex
A haunting mystery about a man who vanished and the women left behind trying to make sense of it. Moving between past and present, the story slowly unravels memory, grief, and how the truth can shift depending on who’s telling it. Best for: Readers who enjoy pensive mysteries and a slightly melancholy feeling.
April – “Eat your Ice Cream” by Ezekiel J. Emanuel
Public health expert and physician Ezekiel J. Emanuel tells us what research shows about living a long and healthy life. He challenges common health myths and offers this practical guidance on habits that matter most. Accessible and engaging, the book encourages readers to approach wellness with balance and enjoyment.
April – “Heart of a Stranger” by Angela Buchdahl
Rabbi Angela Buchdahl tells the story of growing up with a Korean mother and Jewish father and how that background shaped her journey into leadership within American Judaism. Through personal memories and reflections on faith and identity, she explores the complicated feeling of belonging while also standing a little outside the community around you.
April – “The Aquatics” by Osvalde Lewat
This novel takes place in a fictional Central African country and centers on Katmé, the wife of a powerful government minister. When an artist friend is arrested for his outspoken work, the life she has always known begins to shift. As political tensions grow, Katmé is forced to confront difficult questions about loyalty, justice, and her own role in the world around her.
March – “Eight Million Ways to Happiness” by Hiroko Yoda
This engaging read by Hiroko Yoda is a simple introduction to Japanese gods and spirits. Yoda explains the idea that there are “eight million” kami in Japan, meaning that happiness and sacredness can be found everywhere, from nature to everyday life. Through short stories and clear explanations, she shows how these beliefs shape Japanese culture and offer comfort and joy in ordinary moments.
March – “The Incredible Kindness of Paper” by Evelyn Skye
This gentle, heartfelt novel explores grief, creativity, and the unexpected ways people help each other heal. With beautifully drawn characters and a touch of emotional magic, it’s perfect for readers who love stories about connection, second chances, and finding meaning in small, everyday things.
February – “Detective Aunty” by Uzma Jalaluddin
When a young woman finds herself caught up in a mystery, she turns to a very observant (and very involved) auntie for help. Because “when in trouble, call an aunty!” This cozy mystery is funny, warm, and full of family dynamics, community, and detective work.
February – “Turtle Island” by Sean Sherman
This book explores Indigenous food traditions of North America through recipes, history, and stories about the land. Chef Sean Sherman focuses on ingredients and techniques that were used long before modern industrial food systems. A thoughtful read for anyone interested in cooking, sustainability, or learning more about Indigenous culture through food.
January – “Bury Our Bones in the Midnight Soil” by V.E. Schwab
Dark, moody, and very V.E. Schwab. This gothic vampire fantasy novel follows three women across different centuries. Exploring topics of love, power, and identity, this book is a great pick if you like emotionally rich stories with a little edge.
January – “Saltcrop” by Yume Kitasei
A dystopian sci-fi novel focused on two sisters searching for their missing eldest sister. Set in a harsh, salt-covered world, it follows characters trying to survive and make hard choices. Tense, immersive, and thought-provoking, this pick is great for fans of strong world-building.
December – “A Fellowship of Librarians and Dragons” by J. Penner
This lighthearted fantasy follows a group of librarians who discover their quiet stacks are a lot more magical and dangerous than they realized. When dragons, enchanted books, and a few unexpected quests show up, the librarians band together to protect their world using equal parts bravery, book smarts, and humor. A fun, cozy adventure for anyone who loves libraries, magic, and a good team-up.
December – “The World’s Fair Quilt” by Jennifer Chiaverini
Set against the excitement of the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, this novel follows a group of women brought together by a remarkable quilting project. As they stitch, they share stories, worries, and dreams. Chiaverini blends history and heart into a cozy read perfect for anyone who loves quilts, women’s stories, or a touch of historical charm.
December – “My Next Breath” by Jeremy Renner
In this candid memoir, Jeremy Renner reflects on the accident that nearly took his life and the long road back. He writes with honesty, grit, and surprising humor about recovery, family, and what it means to rebuild yourself one step at a time. A good read for anyone who appreciates resilience and stories of starting over.
