Ultimate List of Recommended Reading
Books I Can't Stop Recommending!
As many of my friends on social media already know, I’m an avid reader and book lover. Fun fact - my colleagues all know that I’m a book lover too!
A while back I participated in a book club program through work where we read and discussed Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man by Emmanuel Acho. Not only did it spark amazing conversations with colleagues but we also had the unique opportunity to create a project that spoke to our passion. Is it any surprise that my project involved books and reading?!
Little Free Library Love
With the financial support of my office, I was able to purchase books and started a little lending library. I focused on purchasing books that would make an impact in different genres and categories, with an emphasis on DE&I picks.
My colleagues loved it and they continue to enjoy the library. It never fails to make me smile when I’m in the office and notice new books on the shelf or notice that books have been borrowed out.
I was inspired to write this post after having a few colleagues reach out for book recommendations and thus realized that I don’t have a written list that I can easily pull and share. To remedy that, I decided it was the perfect time to create a list of my absolute favorite books that I always recommend.
The following books are those that I consistently find myself recommending and I rated them at least a 4.5 out of 5 stars.
At no cost to you I receive a commission for items purchased through links.
Recommended Reading
Regardless of genre: I highly recommend checking out The StoryGraph for detailed notes, topics, and potential trigger/content warnings if there’s something specific you watch for before picking up a book!
Hardback Savings Note - For those marked below with BoTM Hot Tip - you can snag a hardback copy from Book of the Month. First time subscribers get their first book for only $5. Existing subscribers can include for $10.99 as an add-on.
Literary & Women’s Fiction
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
This book is fantastic! Highly recommend for anyone that loves books and literary fiction.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab
This book is fantastic. Equal parts literary fiction with fantasy vibes and a dash of romance.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
This book has an interesting perspective on life.
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman
Wonderful women’s fiction pick about family.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah
You may be familiar with the Netflix adaptation but the book is soooo much better!
The Vineyard at Painted Moon by Susan Mallery
Susan Mallery is another auto-buy author for me. This one takes place on a vineyard!
The Girl with the Louding Voice by Abi Daré
A Read with Jenna pick.
This book was completely different than anything I’ve ever read and I really enjoyed it.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
This book has had tons of mixed reviews but I thought it was so good! It essentially takes place in one day and has a strong focus on mental health.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Dear Edward by Ann Napolitano
A Read with Jenna pick.
This book is equal parts depressing and thought-provoking but in the best way.
Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Nonfiction Memoirs
My number one tip for nonfiction memoirs - if you enjoy audiobooks this is the BEST type of book to enjoy on audio as many authors narrate their own books. Nonfiction memoir narrated by the author is one of my favorite ways to read!
Feeding the Soul (Because it’s my business): Finding Our Way to Joy, Love, and Freedom by Tabitha Brown
Do yourself a favor and listen to the audiobook narrated by the author - such a great way to experience the book!
Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig
Regardless if it personally affects you this is a great book that focuses on depression and anxiety.
Hold On But Don’t Hold Still: Hope and Humor From My Seriously Flawed Life by Kristina Kuzmic
Great memoir with a focus on parenting. Filled with great nuggets and tidbits of authentic humor and advice.
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
The audiobook was a great way to enjoy this book.
I’m Not Really a Waitress: How One Woman Took Over the Beauty Industry One Color at a Time by Suzi Weiss-Fischmann
Written by the Cofounder of OPI. A quick interesting read.
I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy
Catchy book title, right? Absolutely heart-wrenching and I highly recommend the audiobook version - great listen!
Nonfiction Personal & Professional Development / “Self-Help”
I Want To Thank You by Gina Hamadey
Get ready to pull those old thank you notes out of your drawer because this book will re-inspire you to express your gratitude.
The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown
Brené Brown is a fantastic author. Her books are inspiring, motivational, and so simple to understand.
Other recommended picks: Dare to Lead | Daring Greatly | Braving the Wilderness:
The High 5 Habit: Take Control of Your Life with One Simple Habit by Mel Robbins
Pick up for an uplifting and inspiring read.
Undaunted: Overcoming Doubts and Doubters by Kara Goldin
Written by the Founder & CEO of Hint.
Nonfiction DE&I
Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man by Emmanuel Acho
This book should be required reading! Do yourself a favor and go read this book.
White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism by Robin Diangelo
I listened to the audiobook version. It was a relatively quick but impactful read.
Steamy / Steamy(ish) Romance Authors
The following authors are all auto-buys for me because I’ve read their books and always love them. What can I say about these steamy(ish) romances other than that they’re worth the read? Listed below in alphabetical order.
Ali Brady
Jessica Clare
Alexis Daria
Carley Fortune
Emily Henry
(I’d pass on The People We Meet on Vacation)
Farah Heron
Helen Hoang
Jane Igharo
Anita Kelly
Amy Lea
Lynn Painter
Farrah Rochon
Rachel Lynn Solomon
Denise Williams
Sweet Romance Authors
The following authors are also all auto-buys for me. These authors tend to lean more towards women’s fiction, romantic comedy, and overall sweet romance. If you prefer your romance to not have open-door scenes, this is the list for you!
Rich Amooi
Known as the king of romantic comedy. Need I say more?
Cost saving tip: his books are on Kindle Unlimited!
Katherine Center
Known for inspirational women’s fiction with a dash of sweet romance.
The Bodyguard - Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Things You Save in a Fire - Hot tip: BoTM pick!
What You Wish For - Hot tip: BoTM pick!
Jean Meltzer
Jewish author that writes fun romantic comedies with Jewish representation. Her books feel like they’d be perfect books to Hallmark movies!
Kerry Winfrey
Known for women’s fiction with humor and a dash of romance.
Jenny Hale
Known for summer beach reads and Christmas holiday reads. Her Christmas holiday books always scream Make Me Into a Hallmark Movie!!
Suzanne Park
Known for young adult and coming of age fiction with a dash of sweet romance
Fiction with Witchy Vibes
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna
Great witchy pick with a surprise twist ending and a dash of romance.
In The Shadow Garden by Liz Parker
I can’t recommend this book enough. This was my favorite read in 2022 and it reignited my excitement and love of reading. Highly recommend this to all.
Improbably Yours by Kerry Anne King
This is a quick women’s fiction read with a small dash of witchy vibes. Perfect if you’re looking for something with adventure and a dash of romance.
I read quite a few of your recommendations. While we don’t agree on all the ratings I loved that you put such an extensive list together! I hope a lot of people read your article.
This is such a great idea! I'm adding a few to my TBR!