Book Lovers List of 50+ Must-Reads: From Children’s Delights to Murder Mysteries to Rom-Coms & More

In Bella Learns to Read, a delightful installment of the Bella Lucia Series by Curiously Curated Creations, children are invited to join Bella the Elephant on an inspiring adventure. This charming story not only captivates young imaginations but also highlights the transformative journey of learning to read, accompanied by the unwavering support of loved ones.

• Mesmerizing Storyline: Bella’s determination to learn to read resonates with children, making the process of education feel both exciting and accessible. 
• Uplifting Message: The story beautifully illustrates the virtues of patience and resilience, encouraging young readers to tackle their own challenges with confidence.  
• Engaging Play Companion: The 14″ Bella Elephant plush toy (available on her website) enriches the experience, inspiring imaginative play that reinforces the story’s themes of curiosity and friendship.

Kristina Lucia Pezza, the talented author behind this delightful, award-winning series, sparks imagination and wonder in both children and their parents with her animal-themed sensory storybooks, making it a treasured addition to any child’s library.

Jamie Sumner’s Schooled is a heartfelt middle-grade novel that delves into themes of grief, friendship, and self-discovery. The story follows eleven-year-old Lenny Syms, who, after the death of his mother, finds himself enrolled in an experimental school on a college campus.

• Sixth-grader, Lenny Syms is facing grief while adjusting to a unique new school.
• A heartfelt middle-grade story about grief, growth, and finding your place.
• A perfect, relatable read for middle schoolers navigating big emotions.

Sumner’s writing feels honest and heartfelt, making Schooled a story that truly clicks with middle-grade readers. Schooled is a touching, feel-good story about bouncing back and finding your people. It’s the kind of book that makes you laugh, think, and maybe see school—and yourself—a little differently.

Goblins have important things to do—like serious magic and goblin business. So when our skeptical goblin protagonist hears all the hype about mermaids, he’s not buying it. Are they really as magical as everyone says, or is it just more glittery nonsense?

• A hilariously grumpy narrator – The goblin is unimpressed, and kids will love his over-the-top complaints.
• Colorful, expressive illustrations – Packed with underwater fun, and yes, lots of sparkles.
• A clever lesson in perspective – Turns out, mermaids might not be that bad after all.

In the end, even a grumpy goblin can admit when he’s wrong… sort of. This playful picture book is perfect for kids who love mermaids, kids who don’t love mermaids, and anyone who enjoys a little bit of snark with their bedtime stories.

Unicorns get all the attention, and our goblin protagonist is so over it. Rainbows, sparkles, and nonstop admiration? Please. But maybe—just maybe—there’s more to unicorns than meets the eye.

• Goblin-level sarcasm – His complaints about unicorn popularity are laugh-out-loud funny.
• A fresh take on unicorn mania – Perfect for kids who love them or are totally over them.
• A sweet surprise twist – Unicorns might actually be… kind of cool?

It turns out that goblins can learn to share the spotlight, too. With humor, charm, and just the right amount of grumbling, this is one of those fun books to read on vacation for any kid who’s ever been a little jealous of the star of the show—or just really enjoys a good eye-roll.

Colin the vampire has finally moved into his dream home—a proper castle, complete with towers, space, and plenty of storage. But there’s one tiny problem. His castle comes with an unexpected roommate: a very persistent duck. No amount of tricks, scheming, or protests can make the duck leave, so Colin is left with one option—learning to live with his very uninvited guest.

• A Vampire, a Castle, and… a Duck? – The world’s least intimidating vampire meets the world’s most stubborn waterfowl.
• Laugh-Out-Loud Situations – Colin’s desperate attempts to reclaim his peace turn into pure comedy.
• Charming, Playful Illustrations – Holly Swain’s expressive art brings plenty of personality to both Colin and his unexpected housemate.
• A Fun Take on Change and Compromise – Sometimes, dream homes come with surprises—but that doesn’t mean they can’t be great.

Colin just wanted a quiet castle, but instead, he got a duck—and a hilarious lesson in unexpected friendships.

Pigeon is supposed to graduate, but let’s be honest—when has he ever just gone along with the plan? There are speeches, caps, and a whole lot of rules, and Pigeon has opinions about all of it. Mo Willems delivers another hilarious, over-the-top tantrum from everyone’s favorite stubborn bird.

• Full of Pigeon’s Signature Sass – Dramatic outbursts? Check. Questionable decision-making? Absolutely. He’s as feisty as ever.
• A Perfect Graduation Gift – Ideal for kids moving up to a new grade, finishing preschool, or just refusing to follow directions.
• Mo Willems’ Instantly Recognizable Style – Simple yet expressive illustrations and speech-bubble dialogue make this an engaging read.
• A Must for Pigeon Fans – If Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! has been read a hundred times in your house, this belongs on the shelf.

This book is pure Pigeon chaos—so, of course, it’s fantastic.

Kids have big emotions that they need to figure out how to work through and Victor is here to help! You and your little one will appreciate:

• Beautifully illustrated
• Perfect for those with anxiety
• Helps guide children as they learn to manage their own emotions

This is a perfect book for all kiddos and their parents too, to help navigate emotions through Victor for everyone’s benefit.

Bigfoot’s Big Heart is one of those fun books to read on vacation—a heartwarming children’s picture book that tells the story of Bigfoot, a shy creature longing for connection. To show his love and friendship, Bigfoot creates Valentine’s Day cards for his mythical friends like Nessie and Mothman. When a scout troop accidentally finds his cards, they band together to help him spread kindness, showcasing themes of empathy and friendship.

• A sweet tale that teaches kids the value of kindness, inclusion, and reaching out.
• Ishaa Lobo’s vibrant artwork brings the story to life with warmth and charm.
• Introduces children to global mythical creatures in a fun and accessible way.
• Celebrates love and friendship in a way kids will adore.

This charming tale that not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons about kindness and understanding, making it a perfect gift for young readers.

A sensible Secretary Bird just wants to narrate a classic nursery rhyme collection, but one zippy little Weasel has other plans. Every time a rhyme starts, the Weasel bursts in, causing absolute mayhem. Can the Secretary Bird restore order, or will this book be completely derailed?

• A Nursery Rhyme Remix – Classic rhymes like Little Miss Muffet and Jack and Jill get a hilarious, high-energy makeover.
• Chaotic, Comedic Fun – The Weasel’s interruptions turn every moment into a laugh-out-loud disaster.
• Expressive, Action-Packed Illustrations – Andrea Tsurumi’s art captures every wild twist and turn.
• Perfect for Read-Alouds – The playful text and nonstop antics will have kids engaged from start to finish.

This is not your typical nursery rhyme collection—it’s a fast, funny, and gloriously chaotic adventure.

Perfect for animal lovers, The Little Puppy follows an energetic pup as he explores the world with his curious spirit. Featuring charming illustrations and a sweet narrative, this book captures the boundless love and joy that pets bring to our lives. A perfect pick for toddlers and preschoolers, this story makes a delightful addition to your child’s Valentine’s Day celebrations.

• Timeless Appeal: A story that teaches love, loyalty, and friendship in a relatable way.
• Engaging Storyline: A simple yet captivating tale of a curious pup’s adventures.
• Heartwarming Artwork: Beautifully illustrated pages bring the puppy to life.

This sweet tale is another of those fun books to read on vacation because it’s bound to make your little animal lover’s heart skip a beat this Valentine’s Day!

Keith Baker’s Hap-Pea Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, friendship, and—of course—adorably round little peas. With vibrant illustrations and rhyming text, this story follows our cheerful pea pals as they bake, craft, and prepare to spread the Valentine’s Day cheer. Each page brims with charm, making it the perfect pick for a snuggly read-aloud session.

• Playful Rhymes: The sing-songy text is as fun to read as it is to hear, keeping little ones engaged.
• Colorful Illustrations: Each page is a visual treat, packed with tiny, delightful details that kids will love exploring.
• Sweet Message: It’s all about love, friendship, and sharing joy—values that make this book timeless.

This book is guaranteed to leave you and your kiddos feeling “hap-pea” this Valentine’s Day and beyond.

Help young magicians discover How to Fool Your Parents: 25 Brain-Breaking Magic Tricks. This book by celebrity magician David Kwong is essential for those who want to become a magician.

• More than two dozen illusions.
• Become a master at sleight of hand and card tricks.
• Learn to be a trickster with cell phones and technology.
• Step-by-step instructions are easy to follow for everyone.
• Secret codes, secret signals, and much more.

The 192-page book is definitely one of those fun books to read on vacation that are geared toward kids aged 8 to 12 in the digital generation, but the easy-to-learn tricks and illusions will inspire magic lovers of all ages. David Kwong is a magician and New York Times crossword puzzle constructor. He has been the head magic consultant on Now You See Me and more.

If you had to be drawn back to the one place you’d rather forget, what would you do? For Effie, it was a shock to the system before. There’s no escape and Zoë Rankin has outdone herself in this unputdownable thriller that’ll have you turning the pages and skeptical about camping ever again!

Never in her life did Effie think that the little girl who was witness to a brutal murder could be the woman staring back at her in the mirror. Now it’s time for Effie to unearth the past and confront her greatest fears…What happened to her family, and what horrors did her mind lock away?

For one of the fun books to read on vacation under the stars, we’re grabbing this one over and over again, just for the thrills and chills against the summer heat!

Ahhh, now we’re locked and loaded. Kills Well with Others by Deanna Raybourn—the full-length sequel to her brilliantly badass bestseller Killers of a Certain Age. And yes, the ladies are back. Older, bolder, and very much not in the mood to be quietly retired. Here’s the dossier on what you’re walking into:

• A Hit List Hits Back: Someone inside the Museum (aka the ultra-elite assassin network) is leaking names—and our heroines are on the menu. Cue globetrotting, grave-digging, and an international game of “who’s next?”
• Golden Girls, But Make It Lethal: Billie, Helen, Mary Alice, and Natalie are in their sixties, fed up with watercolor classes, and more than happy to trade yoga mats for murder weapons.
• A Truly Global Chase: From posh European locales to seedy underworld hideouts, these women are back to doing what they do best: taking down monsters with flair.
• Witty, Wise, and Weaponized: The banter is razor-sharp, the kills are creative, and the pacing doesn’t quit. Think “Menopause Mission: Do The Impossible.”
• Deadlier With Age: These aren’t your typical femme fatales—they’re smart, experienced, and ruthless in the way only women who’ve spent 40 years cleaning up global messes can be.
• The Stakes Are Personal: This isn’t just another job—someone is coming for them. And they are not going quietly.
• For Fans Of: Espionage thrillers with bite, female-led action, or anyone who thought Helen Mirren in Red needed her own franchise.

If you loved Killers of a Certain Age, Kills Well with Others is a locked-and-loaded encore that proves revenge isn’t just a young woman’s game—it’s a lifelong skillset.

Now this is the kind of murder mystery and one of those fun books to read on vacation that pours you a cocktail, quotes Agatha Christie, and then drops a body before dessert. It’s charming, quirky, and just self-aware enough to know that solving crime with a dead author is weird—but fabulous.

• Meet Tory Van Dyne: Book conservator, black sheep of an old-money family, and currently wondering why a woman claiming to be Agatha Christie just showed up in the library asking for a drink.
• The twist? “Agatha” says she’s here to solve a murder that hasn’t happened yet.
• Then someone actually dies: Tory’s socialite cousin’s shady talent agent meets an untimely (but probably deserved) end, and suddenly “Christie” seems a lot less nuts.
• The dream team: One bookish skeptic, one possibly-dead Queen of Crime, a sarcastic librarian, a kid hacker, and a detective who dresses like it’s still 1994.
• The tone: Whimsical murder mystery with smart women, sharp dialogue, and a wink to every classic whodunit trope.
• The vibe: Only Murders in the Library meets Knives Out with a sprinkle of paranormal sass and vintage sleuthing flair

If you’re into cozy mysteries with brains, banter, and just the right amount of supernatural WTF, this one’s got your name—and maybe your alibi—all over it.

All right, let’s get cozy and crack open The House of Monstrous Women by Daphne Fama—a gothic and ghost-ridden slow burn that says “haunted house” but makes it generational trauma. Maybe taking that invite for a friend-union wasn’t the best idea, but if her friend can change her life for the better, wouldn’t you want to play the game despite the secrets your friend holds?

• Genre-Bending Gothic Vibes: A moody cocktail of literary horror and psychological thriller.
• Standalone Debut: No series commitment, no cliffhangers, just one beautifully creepy narrative that wraps its arms around you and squeezes.
• Perfect for Fans Of: Silvia Moreno-Garcia, Carmen Maria Machado, or anyone who’s ever screamed “burn it down” at a ghost story.

This isn’t just a haunted house tale—it’s a reckoning. She must save herself in more ways than one.

The World’s Greatest Detective and Her Just Okay Assistant, and if that title doesn’t already make you want to grab a cup of coffee and dive in, let’s just say: this one’s got murder, mentorship, and multigenerational sass.

Picture a Sherlock-Watson setup but with a cranky Boomer woman and an earnest, possibly over-caffeinated Gen Z assistant, dropped into a lakeside mystery straight out of an upscale Vermont postcard—just with more suspicious deaths and family secrets.

• Slow-Burn Sleuthing: Olivia’s journey from floundering assistant to potential detective-in-the-making gives the narrative a satisfying arc.
• Delightfully Dysfunctional Duo: Aubrey Merritt is a legend in the world of private investigation, but also probably someone who responds to texts with a period just to assert dominance.
• Cozy Meets Clever: This isn’t your gritty noir. It’s witty, warm, and tightly plotted—a mystery with real stakes but wrapped in a charmingly snarky bow.
• Classic Mystery Vibes: A rich woman mysteriously falls (or is pushed?) to her death, and of course, the family is a buffet of motives. Heirlooms, grudges, hidden affairs—you know the drill, and it’s delicious.
• Intergenerational Banter: The clash between Merritt’s no-nonsense style and Olivia’s enthusiasm adds a fresh layer to the genre. It’s giving “begrudging mentorship” with emotional payoff.

This one goes down easy—equal parts comforting and compelling, like a warm sweater with a hidden flask. Definitely one to shelve next to your “fun murder” collection.

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “don’t whistle at night,” let’s just say Nick Medina’s The Whistler takes that warning and runs it straight into a horror show. This novel isn’t just about ghost stories—it’s about guilt, grief, and the spirits that don’t politely stay in the past. Oh, and if you thought ghost hunting on YouTube was harmless, this might change your mind.

Here’s what you’re getting into:

• Henry was on the verge of ghost-hunting fame
• Now he’s confined to a wheelchair and being haunted.
• His girlfriend Jade thinks it’s all in his head.
• But Henry’s pretty sure the thing haunting him is real… and getting closer every night.
• It’s creepy, culturally rooted, and deeply personal—more eerie dread than jump scares, but it’ll still mess with your head.

This isn’t your standard haunted—The Whistler is slower-burning, psychologically jagged horror grounded in Native beliefs and modern dread. Medina, author of Sisters of the Lost Nation, knows how to craft folklore into something frighteningly personal. And trust: after this one, you’ll think twice before whistling at anything after dark.

There’s nothing like a haunted seaside hotel to ruin a perfectly good photography project. When architect Aubrey Spencer snaps a photo of the abandoned Seabrink Hotel she meets a hunky celeb that shares her passion with old buildings…until he ended up dead that is.

• Creepy hotel? Say less. Aubrey Spencer is all about photographing abandoned buildings with dark histories, and the Seabrink Hotel checks every box.
• Locals aren’t buying it: The police say accident, but the town whispers murder—and apparently this isn’t the first person to die after poking around the hotel.
• Secrets in the walls: Turns out Seabrink used to hosted A-list celebrity clientele back in teh 20’s… until two women died and may have never left.
• Someone’s watching: The deeper Aubrey digs, the more obvious it gets—someone really doesn’t want her finding out what happened.

Gothic mystery with modern edge, perfect for fans of haunted history, true crime tangents, and hotels that should’ve stayed condemned.

If you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery with heart, humor, and a dash of murder-mystery, The Busybody Book Club by Freya Sampson is a delightful pick. Set in a charming Cornish seaside village, this novel brings together a quirky cast of characters who, despite their differences, unite to solve a local mystery. Recently moved from London, Nova Davies takes a job at the local community center leading a book club. When one of the book club members disappears and a dead body is found at his home, the book club decides to work together to solve the mystery.

Their journey is filled with unexpected twists, personal growth, and the forging of unlikely friendships.

Get ready for a laugh-out-loud cozy that mixes snark, sass, and an over-the-top girlfriend. If you’ve ever been thrust into a situation you hated, but had to… you know financial woes…then this is your book.

Join Jessamine as she navigates the planning she loves and the people she loathes, all while wanting to work in silence and solitude. The body in the sauna really doesn’t help. Well, nothing like a dead person to spoil your plans and threaten your career. See if Jessamine and get out of this one…alive!

Time to cue the sunscreen and sarcasm—because Just Be Beachy by Wendy Wax is not your average toes-in-the-sand beach read. It’s more like a piña colada with a splash of midlife crisis and a twist of reinvention—the perfect picture of one of the fun books to read on vacation. Set in the glittery-yet-gritty world of social media stardom, this novel dishes up humor, heart, and the messy reality of starting over—publicly.

• Instagram vs. Reality
• Midlife Reinvention, Hold the Filters
• Intergenerational Drama
• A Dash of Romance
• Smart, Funny, and Surprisingly Deep

Just Be Beachy is for anyone who’s ever side-eyed a flawless Instagram post and thought, “Yeah, right.” It’s warm, witty, and refreshingly unfiltered—a perfect pick for your real-life beach bag or just mentally escaping to one.

In The new vampires in town are sinking their teeth into solving a murder…undead husbands Arthur and Sal are trying to live their best post-living lives running a quaint B&B in Trident Falls, Oregon—a town that’s about as supernatural-friendly as a garlic festival.

• Not your average vampires: Arthur and Sal are more into baked goods than bloodlust. Mostly.
• Setting: A bed & breakfast in a small town that’s not quite ready for creatures of the night—or their coffee orders.
• Murder, but make it quirky: The mayor is dead, the begonias are ruined, and our undead innkeepers are suspects.
• The squad: Includes a latte-slinging werewolf and an elf coroner who presumably has very neat handwriting.
• Tone: Cozy mystery meets paranormal sitcom. Think What We Do in the Shadows crossed with Only Murders in the Building, but with more scones.

They’re not your typical vampires. They wear SPF, chat with trash pandas, and care more about croissants than carnage. But when the mayor turns up dead (in their begonias, no less) with two tidy fang marks in his neck, suddenly everyone’s side-eyeing the new undead couple in town. If you like your murder mysteries with charm, camp, and minimal actual bloodshed, this one’s checking in right on time.

Fall in love with the characters in this book as you read the story of a hopeless romantic who meets Mr. Offlimits.

• A reimagining of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
• A love story for everyone
• Book 3 of 3 if you want to enjoy all of them

We love a good series. Whether you read this one first or last, you’ll be happy choosing it as one of your fun books to read on vacation!

A rom-com is always on our fun books to read on vacation, like the best-selling author Jaci Burton delivered with Designs on You. Sometimes love is found where you least expect it.

• Easy and fun read
• Single moms for the win
• Sweet romantic story

You will enjoy this heartfelt romantic comedy where the heroine has finally met her match, who refuses to back down from a good challenge. Can you?

If Not For My Baby by USA Today Bestselling author needs to be added to your TBR pile this summer. What happens when a small town backup singer meets a big time lead singer and the sparks start to fly…?!

• Opposites attract romance story
• Steamy and NSFW
• Perfect for romance lovers
• Heartfelt for the vulnerability of falling in love

If you are looking to fall in love with a book this summer that you won’t want to put down, snag this one now!

Sometimes a broken heart can’t always heal itself, and that is where Louisa Walsh comes in with her bed and breakfast for the brokenhearted. This book will steal your heart as well.

• Cozy and steamy in the perfect picturesque Colorado setting
• Learning to love again while loving oneself
• Feel-good romance that will have you rooting for everyone’s comeback
• A must-read for anyone who has felt alone

The Heartbreak Hotel might just be the answer to the book you will not be able to put down this summer.

How to Sell a Romance by Alexa Martin, and no surprise here: it’s giving all the fizzy, feel-good vibes you’d expect from a real laugh-out-loud rom-com. We’re talking:

• When a MLM scam goes wrong, but you met Mr. Right
• Witty Banter & Strong Female Lead
• Belly laughs throughout this book
• A page-turner that will have you rooting for this couple

Light-hearted and fun book with second chances and an opportunity to take down the bad guy! You’re welcome.

Jane L. Rosen, already known for her heartfelt, breezy storytelling, is back with another summer-ready novel that practically demands to be read by a pool (preferably with a cold drink in hand). “Songs of Summer” looks like it promises an emotional, music-laced journey, blending nostalgia with new and old loves.

• Perfect beach read for summer vacations
• Scenery set against a backdrop of music and memory. Think: old playlists, rekindled emotions, maybe a few tears
• Available in hardcover, Kindle edition, and audiobook — choose your flavor of escapism.
• 336 pages — enough to sink into over a lazy weekend without feeling like homework.

Don’t pass up the chance to put this beach read in your summer TBR pile, especially if you are lounging poolside.

What if you were given a second chance at life when you didn’t even realize you lost your first chance? Meet Amber, who comes back home after dying 7 years ago to be thrown into a world she doesn’t recognize.

• From #1 New York Bestseller Gayle Forman
• Explores the stages of grief
• Dives into the impact one has on others
• Great for young adults and older

This book is a real page-turner, one of the best fun books to read on vacation, as it’s beautifully written, which will make you think, laugh, and cry.

The first in the Thieve’s Gambit series is the perfect gift for your young adult reader. Deemed a mix between The Inheritance Games and Ocean’s Eleven, this is one heist you don’t want to miss!

• Master thief and teenager Ross Quest realizes her plan to run away cannot happen when her mother’s life is in danger.
• To save her mom’s life, Ross enters an international heist where the rules are slippery.
• Growing up knowing she shouldn’t trust anyone, Ross enters the competition with a hopeful spirit. But she is crushed when she realizes she may not have the chops to win alone.

This book is perfect for your older children and you. It’s a fun, adrenaline-pumping read. Don’t miss out on the first installment of this fast and exhilarating series from Penguin Teen.

In this devilishly fun twist on the haunted house trope, Clio Louise Barnes has curated a life of influencer perfection—glossy hair, aspirational interiors, and zero visible demons. But behind the reels and ring lights is a childhood she’s carefully edited out: one spent in a house her mother insisted was possessed. Not haunted. Possessed. Normal right?!

• Cursed but chic: A haunted house story with influencer energy and perfect lighting—until the walls start bleeding emotionally.
• Millennial horror-core: Childhood trauma, family dysfunction, and a demon who’s basically the embodiment of unresolved issues.
• Mom wrote a memoir, but spooky: And now Clio’s reading it like, “Oh cool, turns out I might be possessed.”
• Home reno hell: Think #BeforeAndAfter, but the “after” involves ancient evil and crying in a clawfoot tub.
• Gaslight, gatekeep, get haunted: No one believes Mom, Clio doesn’t trust her memories, and the house is just vibing in malevolence.
• Emotional dread in cute shoes: Funny, sharp, and unsettling in that “laugh now, cry at 2AM” kind of way.

If you like your horror with bite, beauty, and a side of millennial trauma, this one flips the script—and the house—with devilish flair.

Oh, so you think you could outwit a 1970s murderer with a flair for misdirection and murder-mystery dramatics? Great. Because this book hands you the magnifying glass and dares you to prove it. An outstanding addition as one of your fun books to read on vacation.

• You’re the detective: No passive reading here—you’re officially cast as the Great Detective. Yes, capital G, capital D. Pipe optional.
• Retro murder vibes: A cold case from ’70s England, complete with sketchy witnesses, missing clues, and someone who got away with murder… so far.
• Fully immersive: Read the interviews, sift through the evidence, and try not to fall for the red herrings (there will be red herrings).
• Big Agatha Christie energy: But make it interactive, like a whodunit escape room with pages instead of panic.
• No pressure, but— you have to solve it. Not just the who, but the how and the why. Half-baked theories will be judged.
• Warning: Unsolved mysteries are unacceptable. You either catch the killer, or the killer walks. Sleep well!

This one’s catnip for true crime junkies, puzzle-solvers, and readers who yell at fictional detectives for missing obvious clues. Now it’s your turn in the hot seat. Good luck, genius.

A good thriller is perfect for a cold day when you just want to cozy up with a book in front of the fire. Enjoy this female-led thriller because:

• This book will make you ask yourself, is anything really free?
• Author Rebecca Benison won the Regal Summi Book Award in the Action/Adventure category for her
• Hard to put down the book with kidnappings, murder, and conspiracy theories
• Touches on real-life stories that have come to light recently, although this story was written prior to the new breaks

Enjoy this suspenseful book, full of mystery, that will keep you engaged throughout.

If you love a good romantic comedy, look no further than Love Is a War Song by bestselling author Danica Nava to add to your BTR pile.

• Andra is fierce, stubborn, slightly flawed, and needs to escape media backlash with a summer spent with her grandma
• There’s a mysterious boy (of course), with a slow-burn, high-stakes romance on the line
• Full of witty banter and a heartfelt journey of self-discovery
• This is an opposites attract love story, perfect beach read this summer

Bonus points: the writing? Sharp. Lyrical. Like a chorus you can’t get out of your head—even if you wanted to.

The Wrong Lady Meets Lord Right by Virginia Heath is the kind of regency romance that practically winks at you from across the bookstore. It’s smart, a little cheeky, and perfect if you enjoy historical fiction where clever heroines throw society’s rules out the window.

• Virginia Heath (yes, the same one behind the Merriwell Sisters series, so you know what you’re getting into)
• Book 1 of the new The Chessmen series (a fresh batch of reformed rogues and smart women)
• A charming rake (Maxwell, the Duke of Eastleigh) accidentally falls for a rebellious lady (Lady Eliza) who’s pretending to be her more ‘proper’ cousin. Hijinks obviously ensue.
• Witty, swoony, and refreshingly modern for a regency romance — think Bridgerton but with more banter and less drama
• It sets up the other scandalous bachelors in the Chessmen club for future books, so if you get hooked, there’s more where that came from.

This one feels tailor-made if you love a heroine who would absolutely ghost you at a ball, and a hero who would find that extremely attractive.

Releasing April 1, 2025 (no fooling), this heavily-anticipated sequel to Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice for Murderers is filled with your cozy mystery needs. Picking up where the first book ended, which was a dead man in Vera’s teahouse, life for Vera includes loved ones and primarily alive people. What you can find in this hilarious and heartwarming book:

• Vera is her nosy yet lovable self.
• A mystery wrapped in a death that Vera is determined to solve.
• The characters from the first book (still living) lovingly follow Vera while she snoops into things that are not her business.

This is one of the fun books to read on vacation, and the perfect book for lovers of all genres because the author, Jesse Q. Sutanto, does an incredible job of humanizing her characters. Regardless of how bonkers Vera seems, the reader can’t help but fall in love with Vera and her search for justice.

Love at First Sighting by Mallory Marlowe is a rom-com with a delightfully weird twist—because nothing says “true love” like a UFO and a government agent in hot pursuit. Social media star El Martin just wants something real… and instead stumbles into extraterrestrial chaos and unexpected chemistry with a broody Man in Black.

• Romance meets sci-fi: A love story wrapped in UFO sightings, government secrets, and off-the-charts attraction.
• Influencer vs. Agent energy: El’s curated glam collides with Carter’s buttoned-up world—cue banter, bickering, and undeniable sparks.
• Budding romance with a side of mystery: As the investigation deepens, so does the chemistry between El and Carter.
• Modern love with an extraterrestrial twist: The story blends influencer culture with sci-fi intrigue and unexpected emotional depth.

If you like your love stories smart, offbeat, and just a little bit X-Files-adjacent, this one’s beaming straight to your TBR.

A romantic comedy that will have you laughing, crying, and swooning at the same time. Enjoy PS: I Hate You with your favorite beverage and dive into this love story.

• Romantic comedy
• A chance at redemption
• Page turning goodness

Award-winning Lauren Connolly does it again with this book, which should go in your TBR pile and be flagged as one of your fun books to read on vacation.

Once you pick up this book you will quickly notice why it gets so many five-star reviews. A romance that starts in the French countryside quickly turns as truths are revealed.

• National best-selling author Anne Grace
• Page turner
• Romance with a bit of history
• Plot twists that keep you engaged

Don’t worry if you want more as this is book four in the series, more to read and fall in love with and it won’t disappoint as one of your fun books to read on vacation or just because.

This one’s got golden-girl grit, cozy crime vibes, and just enough chaos to keep it weird in the best way. Here’s a casual, witty bullet-point write-up with the vibes fully intact:

• Grandma’s got secrets: Margaret Winterbottom is 89, charmingly nosy, and absolutely not ready to be sidelined—memory loss or not.
• Murder on the cul-de-sac: Her best friend is dead, the neighbors are acting squirrelly, and Margaret knows she heard something important… if only she could remember what it was.
• Family detective duo: Enter James, her grandson, who gets roped into a murder investigation that’s equal parts clue-hunting and dealing with Margaret’s mysteriously self-operating television.
• Bittersweet and sharp: It’s a cozy mystery with heart, humor, and a side of existential dread—aging, memory, mortality… and suspicious neighbors.
• Unreliable memory, very reliable instincts: Margaret may be forgetful, but someone clearly wants her quiet—and she’s not about to go down without asking a lot of awkward questions.
• The vibe: Only Murders in the Retirement Home. Funny, poignant, and sneakily suspenseful.

Perfect for fans of crime fiction with a soft center and a sharp tongue—Margaret might not remember where she put her keys, but she will find a killer. Eventually. Probably.

What starts as a family funeral turns into a full-blown geopolitical meltdown in this twist-packed, high-stakes political thriller. One minute you’re packing for vacation, the next your husband’s been named president of a crumbling post-Soviet nation and rebels are blowing up half the country. Welcome to Kazichia—hope you brought a flak jacket.

• Vacation cancelled (with extreme prejudice): Michelle’s family trip turns into a funeral, then a coup, all before she can even unpack.
• Michelle just wants to go home: But airports, borders, and reason aren’t really functioning when rebels are firebombing buildings and foreign spies are everywhere.
• The rebel problem: There’s a mysterious figure known only as the Man with a Thousand Faces stirring up revolution—and he’s real good at it.
• Spy soup: Russian intelligence and the CIA both want in. No one can be trusted. Literally no one is who they say they are.
• The vibe: Think The Fugitive meets House of Cards, with a dash of The Americans—fast-paced, paranoid, and packed with double-crosses.

Perfect if you like your thrillers international, your family drama explosive (literally), and your political plots about 30 seconds from chaos at all times.

This Monster of Mine by Shalini Abeysekara is a dark, Ancient Rome-inspired romantasy debut that weaves together elements of political intrigue, magic, and forbidden love. The story follows eighteen-year-old Sarai, who, after surviving a brutal attempted murder four years prior, returns to the scene of the crime as a Petitor—a prosecutor with the magical ability to detect lies. Assigned to work with Tetrarch Kadra, a cold and sadistic judge suspected of similar crimes, Sarai leads a double life: solving cases by day and plotting his downfall by night. As she delves deeper into a deadly political conspiracy, Sarai grapples with her growing attraction to Kadra, whose voice eerily matches the only memory she has of her assailant. This novel offers a compelling blend of manipulation, deception, and a slow-burn romance set against a richly imagined world.

A Rebel Without Claws by Juliette Cross is the first book in the Southern Charm series, a spin-off from her popular Stay a Spell universe. Set in the vibrant supernatural community of New Orleans, this steamy paranormal romance follows the story of Ronan Reed, a troubled werewolf seeking a fresh start, and Celine Cruz, a compassionate Aura witch dedicated to healing others.

After a series of bar fights and arrests in Texas, Ronan moves in with his uncle’s Blood Moon pack in Louisiana, aiming to lead his own team in the werewolf cage-fighting ring. However, his plans are disrupted when he meets Celine, whose presence reawakens his long-dormant wolf side. Celine, familiar with anxiety and devoted to helping those in need, finds herself drawn to Ronan, despite knowing he’s everything her close-knit family would disapprove of.

As their forbidden attraction intensifies, Ronan and Celine must navigate their complex emotions and the dangers that come with their connection, especially when threats emerge targeting Celine. Rebel Without Claws offers a compelling blend of romance, action, and supernatural intrigue.

Broken Souls and Bones by LJ Andrews is a gripping romantasy set in a Norse-inspired world, where magic is both revered and feared. The story follows Lyra Bien, a young woman striving to live a quiet life away from the magic-obsessed King Damir. Her peaceful existence is disrupted when Roark Ashwood, the king’s silent and enigmatic guard, discovers her secret: she is a melder, possessing rare and powerful magic. To save her best friend, Lyra reveals her abilities and is claimed by the crown as the next Bone Melder—a role that is both an honor and a slow death sentence.

As Lyra seeks a way to free herself and her friends from bondage, she must navigate the complexities of her growing connection with Roark. Together, they uncover sinister truths that force them to choose between standing against all they know or accepting a dark destiny. Broken Souls and Bones offers a compelling narrative that will captivate fans of fantasy romance.

If your dinner rotation has been crying out for help, Mel’s Kitchen Café: Favorite Family Recipes is the rescue mission your weeknights needed.

• 140 hand-picked recipes pulled straight from Mel’s blog and kitchen, all tested and perfected for real-life home cooking.
• Full-color photos included for every single recipe — no more guessing if your chicken looks “done-ish.”
• Fan-favorite classics and new exclusives, including dinner staples, holiday go-tos, baking hits, and comfort food royalty (her dinner rolls are basically famous).
• Clean, spiral-bound format that lies flat on the counter — no more wrestling your cookbook mid-stir.
• Candid cooking tips and make-ahead notes from Mel herself, adding a layer of confidence and calm to even the busiest weeknight dinner rush.
• Accessible ingredients and family-approved flavors, meaning no “What even is that?” from the peanut gallery.

This isn’t just a cookbook — it’s a reliable kitchen wingwoman who’s got your back every night of the week.

If your dinner game is running on fumes, Lil’ Luna’s So Easy & So Yummy might just be your new secret weapon. Kristyn Merkley takes her beloved blog recipes offline with a collection of easy, comforting meals designed to please picky eaters and busy cooks alike.

• 200+ easy recipes: Quick, no-fuss meals using ingredients you probably already have on hand.
• Comfort food classics: From cheesy bakes to creamy soups, these are stick-to-your-ribs favorites without the extra effort.
• Kid-tested, family-approved: Each recipe passes the ultimate test: Kristyn’s five kids.
• Helpful extras throughout: Includes tips for freezing, customizing, and saving time on prep.

This book is made for real-life kitchens—the messy, loud, “what’s for dinner?” kind—and delivers every time with solid, satisfying meals.

This is the book that teaches your brush pen how to act properly on paper. With easy-to-follow techniques and clean visuals, Brush Pen Lettering takes you from clueless to confident, one stroke at a time.

• Step-by-step instruction – Covers pen pressure, stroke direction, and lettering anatomy with simple guidance.
• Beginner-friendly design – Clear layout, approachable tone, and encouragement throughout.

A no-nonsense intro to modern calligraphy that actually makes learning fun—and your notebook way cuter.

If your hand lettering is feeling a little… flat, Fearless Flourishing is here to give it some serious lift. Author and lettering artist Alissa Chojnacki takes the mystery out of adding eye-catching flourishes, guiding you step-by-step so your loops and swirls don’t look like accidental scribbles.

• Focused on flourishes – Teaches how to add bold, balanced flourishes to letters, words, and full phrases.
• Beginner-friendly approach – No prior flourish knowledge needed; breaks it down with practice drills and examples.
• Creative layout ideas – Tips for using flourishes in quotes, cards, and DIY art projects.

It’s like giving your handwriting a glam squad—extra, elegant, and totally in control.

This is the book that teaches your brush pen how to behave. With easy-to-follow techniques and clean visuals, Brush Pen Lettering takes you from clueless to confident, one stroke at a time.

• Step-by-step instruction – Covers pen pressure, stroke direction, and lettering anatomy with simple guidance.
• Essential drills – Includes foundational exercises to build consistency, rhythm, and control.

A no-nonsense intro to modern calligraphy that actually makes learning fun—and your notebook way cuter.

Dust off those cursive skills your third-grade teacher swore you’d need for checks and formal thank-you notes. Cursive Handwriting for Adults is a no-frills, no-fluff workbook that teaches grown-ups how to reclaim the lost art of flowing script—without making you feel like you’re back in elementary school.

Loaded with tips and tricks for any of your DIY projects or for your own sanity, this easy-to-follow guide will have you writing beautifully, in calm, reflective strokes.

Simple, functional, and surprisingly soothing—like meditation, but with prettier handwriting at the end.