Five by Ilona Bannister
I enjoyed the change from the typical format. The story moved between the present and different points in the past, gradually revealing each character’s backstory. It added depth to the narrative and kept me invested in how everything connected. Chris Whitaker quote says it best: “Five is a gripping, chilling story that asks difficult questions about judgement, forgiveness, and the notion of cause and effect.”
Head Cases by John McMahon, Book 1 in the PAR Unit series
Inside Man by John McMahon, Book 2 in the PAR Unit series
I love a good mystery or suspense novel, especially one filled with quirky, enigmatic characters who keep me engaged and eager to uncover what happens next.
Her Last Breath by Taylor Adams
The story is packed with unexpected twists that kept me guessing from beginning to end. The isolated setting creates an intense, claustrophobic atmosphere that feels almost like a character itself, adding to the suspense at every turn.
Be Your Own Bestie by Misha Brown
Part memoir, part self-help, Misha uses his own 4 step plan: SASS to encourage self-advocacy for the love and acceptance many are looking for. It starts from within.
- Self-reflection: Pushing away what holds you back.
- Affirmations: Reshaping how you speak to yourself.
- Standing your ground: Setting boundaries.
- Sculpting the life you want: Taking bold steps toward happiness
Definitely recommend the audio book since Misha narrates it, making feel like she is speaking right to me.
In Deep Water: A True Story of Sharks, Survival, and Courage by Michael J. Tougias
This was a non-fiction thriller. It read like a novel, but it was true! It tells the adventure from the point of view of the survivors, the rescuers, and the loved ones at home. I would recommend it for anyone that likes (or is terrified—like me) of the ocean and sharks, likes adventure, likes true stories, and likes fishing! It was a great read. My only complaint is they didn’t have enough pics of the survivors after the fact…
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I highly recommend the audiobook narrated by Julia Whelan and Kristin Hannah. It is a powerful historical drama focusing on the underrepresented roles and sacrifices of female veterans during the Vietnam War.
Incidents Around the House by Josh Malerman – Sarah O.
It started off genuinely frightening; I had to read it while it was light outside. It meandered a bit towards the middle, but the ending pulled it back in! It’s about to be adapted into a film in October (called Other Mommy) if you want to read it first!
Ode to the Half-Broken by Suzanne Palmer – Paula
Total robot dystopian society, but where the author fosters respect and communication between their characters in a way that feeds the soul. If someone is feeling pretty doom-and-gloom and wants a sci-fi that’s also humorous, wholesome, and corny, this would be a great pick. Just be ready for the narrator to speak like a robot.
The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm – Wes
Psycho-analytic psychologist Eric Fromm explains how love isn’t just about finding a partner, but being a person that understands how to love and be loved. The Art of Loving shows the reader that love isn’t about romance, possession, or dependency towards another person, but an art that takes hard work, dedication, and a willingness to put ego aside in order to fully and truly experience it.
How to Sell a Haunted House by Grady Hendrix – Caitlin
If you’re a fan of Chucky or the haunted doll trope, this is an excellent read, as it brings childhood toys to life in the most disturbing of ways! Grady Hendrix is great at mixing classic horror themes with real-life questions of morality, making it hard to decide which is scarier.
We Did OK, Kid by Anthony Hopkins – Falan
A surprisingly poetic memoir that takes you behind the scenes of Anthony Hopkins’ life, from growing up to becoming one of the world’s most recognizable actors. Honest, reflective, and deeply human, it’s the kind of memoir that makes you feel like you’ve actually sat down and listened to someone tell you their story. Audio is fantastic!
The Someday Garden by Ashley Poston – Falan
A heartfelt story about friendship, love and the relationships that shape us. If you enjoy a character-driven story with a little magic and plenty of emotional depth, this is a lovely one to settle into.
What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown – Falan
This book pulled me in with its mystery, but what really made it special was how familiar the setting felt. It’s set in the area where I grew up, so reading it brought on a surprising wave of nostalgia for home, woven right into a story full of secrets and suspense.
Love 4 a Walk Vol. 2 by Nuria Sanguino
I adored this series. It was heartwarming, hilarious, and just a perfect book to curl up with. It made me laugh and squeal. I loved the art style a lot. It did the serious moments justice and did hilarious reactions perfectly. I loved this a whole lot.
Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke – Falan
You will either love it or hate it! I guarantee you will be talking about it either way. This book gets under your skin and refuses to leave quietly. It’s strange, unsettling, and definitely not for everyone, but I think that’s exactly what makes it so fun to talk about.
The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah – Falan
I normally steer clear of books centered around domestic violence, but I was recommended this one to many times to ignore it. It ended up being a highly rated read for me. This story has so much depth and it created such a vivid sense of place that now I want to explore Alaska for myself. Just know going in that domestic violence is a significant theme.
