Looking for the best book club fiction books to spice up your next meeting? Discover 25 top book club picks, carefully curated to spark lively discussions and deepen your love for reading. From must-read book recommendations spanning 2018, 2019, and 2020, to the latest best suggestions for book clubs, this list offers something for everyone. Whether you’re seeking emotional journeys, thrilling mysteries, or thought-provoking narratives, these book club suggestions are sure to delight and engage your group. Dive into these captivating stories and find your next favorite read!
Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng
Dive into the gripping world of Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng, a novel that promises to ignite fiery debates and passionate analysis in your book club! This spellbinding story, crowned the winner of the 2017 Goodreads Choice Awards, boasts unforgettable characters and intricate plot twists that will keep you hooked. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking a book that challenges perceptions and sparks deep, meaningful discussions. Add it to your list for an unforgettable literary journey!
In Shaker Heights, a placid, progressive suburb of Cleveland, everything is planned – from the layout of the winding roads, the colors of the houses to the successful lives its residents will go on to lead. And no one embodies this spirit more than Elena Richardson, whose guiding principle is playing by the rules.
Enter Mia Warren – an enigmatic artist and single mother – who arrives in this idyllic bubble with her teenage daughter Pearl, and rents a house from the Richardsons. Soon Mia and Pearl become more than tenants: all four Richardson children are drawn to the mother-daughter pair. But Mia carries with her a mysterious past and a disregard for the status quo that threatens to upend this carefully ordered community.
When old family friends of the Richardsons attempt to adopt a Chinese-American baby, a custody battle erupts that dramatically divides the town–and puts Mia and Elena on opposing sides. Suspicious of Mia and her motives, Elena is determined to uncover the secrets in Mia’s past. But her obsession will come at unexpected and devastating costs.
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Dive into the quirky and heartwarming world of Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine! This remarkable novel introduces us to Eleanor, an eccentric and socially awkward woman whose traumatic childhood continues to shadow her life. Her witty, ironic monologues and unique perspective make her an unforgettable character. This New York Times bestseller, a Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick, and Goodreads Choice Award nominee, is a must-read for any book club. Its uplifting story and deep exploration of loneliness and self-discovery make it a perfect choice for thought-provoking discussions.
Eleanor Oliphant has been working as a finance clerk in the same company for several years. Yet her quirkiness has kept her colleagues at bay. She struggles to navigate her social skills, so always make sure to avoid people in the best way possible. She always looks forward to her weekend routines, which includes eating frozen pizza, vodka and chatting with mummy.
However, her conversations with mom are never uplifting, after every call, Eleanor feels unworthy and unappreciated. Things take an unexpected turn when she meets Raymond, the IT guy from the office. When both of them together save an elderly man named Sammy, three of them develop an unlikely friendship.
Soon Eleanor finds herself attending family gatherings and parties. And it’s through Raymond that she finds herself to be capable of love and affection.
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
An American Marriage by Tayari Jones is an absolute must-read for book clubs! This gripping novel delves into the complexities of married life, offering a realistic and emotional portrayal that will spark deep, thought-provoking discussions. The story’s exploration of love, loyalty, and injustice is both powerful and moving, making it a standout choice for any reading list. As Oprah’s Book Club 2018 Selection, it’s a top recommendation that promises to engage and challenge readers, leaving a lasting impression long after the last page is turned.
Newlyweds Celestial and Roy are the embodiment of both the American Dream and the New South. He is a young executive, and she is an artist on the brink of an exciting career. But as they settle into the routine of their life together, they are ripped apart by circumstances neither could have imagined.
Roy is arrested and sentenced to twelve years for a crime Celestial knows he didn’t commit. Though fiercely independent, Celestial finds herself bereft and unmoored, taking comfort in Andre, her childhood friend, and best man at their wedding. As Roy’s time in prison passes, she is unable to hold on to the love that has been her center. After five years, Roy’s conviction is suddenly overturned, and he returns to Atlanta ready to resume their life together.
This stirring love story is a profoundly insightful look into the hearts and minds of three people who are at once bound and separated by forces beyond their control. An American Marriage is a masterpiece of storytelling, an intimate look deep into the souls of people who must reckon with the past while moving forward with hope and pain into the future.
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi
Homegoing by Yaa Gyasi is an extraordinary debut novel that weaves a heart-wrenching tale of colonization across eight generations. This epic saga offers rich material for book club members to delve into, with each character’s story providing a unique perspective on history and identity. The depth and complexity of the narrative make it hard to believe it’s a first novel, as it masterfully explores themes of heritage and resilience. It’s an unforgettable journey and a brilliant choice for sparking in-depth discussions in any book club.
One of Oprah’s Best Books of the Year, Homegoing follows the parallel paths of these sisters and their descendants through eight generations: from the Gold Coast to the plantations of Mississippi, from the American Civil War to Jazz Age Harlem. Yaa Gyasi’s extraordinary novel illuminates slavery’s troubled legacy both for those who were taken and those who stayed–and shows how the memory of captivity has been inscribed on the soul of our nation.
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
I never imagined I’d be captivated by a sci-fi historical fiction, but Octavia E. Butler’s *Kindred* is an unforgettable blend of both genres. The unique storytelling makes it a must-read, perfect for sparking deep discussions in any book club. Even two decades after its release, it’s still a top choice in 2024 for its thought-provoking exploration of time travel and slavery. This novel’s enduring relevance and masterful narrative make it a standout selection for your next book club read.
In 1976, Dana dreams of being a writer. In 1815, she is assumed a slave. When Dana first meets Rufus on a Maryland plantation, he’s drowning. She saves his life – and it will happen again and again.
Neither of them understands his power to summon her whenever his life is threatened, nor the significance of the ties that bind them. And each time Dana saves him, the more aware she is that her own life might be over before it’s even begun.
This is the extraordinary story of two people bound by blood, separated by so much more than time.
The Bermondsey Bookshop by Mary Gibson
Set against the charming backdrop of a real bookshop, this historical fiction novel brings to life a spirited protagonist’s quest for peace and happiness. The character’s bold and determined pursuit of an untroubled life makes for an engaging and inspiring read. Perfect for fans of compelling narratives and richly detailed settings, this story promises to captivate and entertain, offering plenty to discuss for book club enthusiasts. Dive into this delightful tale and join the adventure!
Set in 1920s London, this is the inspiring story of Kate Goss’s struggle against poverty, hunger, and cruel family secrets. Her mother died in a fall, her father has vanished without a trace, and now her aunt and cousins treat her viciously.
In a freezing, vermin-infested Garrett, factory girl Kate has only her own brave spirit and dreams of finding her father to keep her going. She has barely enough money to feed herself, or to pay the rent. The factory where she works begins to lay off people and it isn’t long before she has fallen into the hands of the violent local money-lender.
That is until an unexpected opportunity comes her way – a job cleaning a most unusual bookshop, where anyone, from factory workers to dockers, can learn to read and then buy books cheaply.
A new world opens up, but with it come new dangers, too. Based on the true story of the Bermondsey Bookshop, this is the most inspiring and gripping novel Mary Gibson has yet written.
The Hate You Gave by Angie Thomas
*The Hate U Give* is an electrifying must-read, especially for book clubs looking to delve into meaningful discussions about social justice. A three-time Goodreads Choice Award winner, this powerful bestseller explores the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement through the eyes of a courageous teen protagonist. With its gripping narrative and timely themes, it’s an essential addition to any book club reading list. Don’t miss out on this compelling and thought-provoking novel that continues to resonate with readers of all ages!
Sixteen-year-old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends. The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend Khalil at the hands of a police officer. Khalil was unarmed.
Soon afterward, his death is a national headline. Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger. Protesters are taking to the streets in Khalil’s name. Some cops and the local drug lord try to intimidate Starr and her family. What everyone wants to know is: what really went down that night? And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.
But what Starr does—or does not—say could upend her community. It could also endanger her life.
The Dutch House by Anne Patchett
*The Dutch House* weaves a compelling tale around siblings Danny and Maeve, exploring their complex lives and relationships within the enigmatic Dutch House. Themes of forgiveness, childhood, wealth, and marriage are intricately examined, offering rich material for book club discussions. With Tom Hanks’s masterful narration, this audiobook becomes an even more immersive experience. This novel is a must-read for those who enjoy deep, multifaceted stories that spark meaningful conversations.
In the economic boom following the Second World War, Cyril Conroy’s real estate investments take his family from poverty to enormous wealth. With it he buys the Dutch House, a lavish mansion in the Philadelphia suburbs. Meant as a surprise for his wife, the house sets in motion the undoing of everyone he loves.
Danny Conroy grows up in the opulence of the Dutch House. Though his father is distant and his mother is absent, Danny has his beloved sister Maeve: Maeve, with her wall of black hair, her wit, her brilliance. The siblings grow and change as life plays out under the watchful eyes of the house’s former owners, in the frames of their oil paintings.
Then one day their father brings home Andrea, a new stepmother. Though they cannot know it, her arrival to the Dutch House sows the seed of the defining loss of Danny and Maeve’s lives: exiled from the house and tossed back into the poverty from which their family rose, Danny and Maeve have only each other to count on.
Dear Mrs. Bird by A .J Pearce
For an utterly charming and engaging read, *Dear Mrs. Bird* by A.J. Pearce is the perfect book club pick! Set against the backdrop of World War II, this debut novel delivers a delightful mix of humor, love, and friendship. The story follows a young woman’s adventures as an advice columnist, bringing laughter and warmth even in tough times. With its witty and heartfelt narrative, this irresistible tale is sure to spark lively discussions and leave readers thoroughly entertained. Don’t miss this captivating and hilarious gem!
An irresistible debut set in London during World War II about an adventurous young woman who becomes a secret advice columnist-a warm, funny, and enormously moving story for fans of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society and Lilac Girls
London, 1940. Emmeline Lake is “Doing Her Bit” for the war effort, volunteering as a telephone operator with the Auxiliary Fire Services. When Emmy sees an advertisement for a job at the London Evening Chronicle, her dreams of becoming a lady war correspondent suddenly seem achievable. But the job turns out to be working as a typist for the fierce and renowned advice columnist Henrietta Bird. Emmy is disappointed, but gamely bucks up and buckles down.
Mrs. Bird is very clear: letters containing any unpleasantness must go straight in the bin. But when Emmy reads poignant notes from women who may have “gone too far” with the wrong men, or who can’t bear to let their children be evacuated, she is unable to resist responding. As the German planes make their nightly raids, and London picks up the smoldering pieces each morning, Emmy secretly begins to write back to the readers who have poured out their troubles.
Prepare to fall head over heels for Emmy and her best friend, Bunty, who are gutsy and spirited, even in the face of a terrible blow. The irrepressible Emmy keeps writing letters in this hilarious and enormously moving tale of friendship, the kindness of strangers, and ordinary people in extraordinary times.
The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton
The Miniaturist is an enchanting mystery set in the alluring world of 17th-century Amsterdam. This novel takes readers on a journey filled with diverse and fascinating characters, weaving a story that feels like a dark, magical fairytale. The mysterious and intricate plot, combined with its richly atmospheric setting, makes it an exceptional choice for book club discussions. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to explore a beautifully crafted and suspenseful tale!
On an autumn day in 1686, eighteen-year-old Nella Oortman knocks at the door of a grand house in the wealthiest quarter of Amsterdam. She has come from the country to begin a new life as the wife of illustrious merchant trader Johannes Brandt, but instead she is met by his sharp-tongued sister, Marin. Only later does Johannes appear and present her with an extraordinary wedding gift: a cabinet-sized replica of their home. It is to be furnished by an elusive miniaturist, whose tiny creations mirror their real-life counterparts in unexpected ways.
Nothing to See Here by Kevin Wilson
Looking for a fun and breezy book club pick? *Nothing to See Here* is the perfect choice! This quirky and quick read delves into the chaos of dysfunctional families and relationships, all wrapped in a layer of humor and satire. It’s a captivating story that’s hard to put down, making it an ideal book for lively discussions and plenty of laughs. Don’t miss out on this entertaining and thought-provoking read!
Lillian and Madison were unlikely roommates and yet inseparable friends at their elite boarding school. But then Lillian had to leave the school unexpectedly in the wake of a scandal and they’ve barely spoken since.
Until now, when Lillian gets a letter from Madison pleading for her help. Madison’s twin stepkids are moving in with her family and she wants Lillian to be their caretaker. However, there’s a catch: the twins spontaneously combust when they get agitated, flames igniting from their skin in a startling but beautiful way. Lillian is convinced Madison is pulling her leg, but it’s the truth. Thinking of her dead-end life at home, the life that has consistently disappointed her, Lillian figures she has nothing to lose.
Over the course of one humid, demanding summer, Lillian and the twins learn to trust each other—and stay cool—while also staying out of the way of Madison’s buttoned-up politician husband. Surprised by her own ingenuity yet unused to the intense feelings of protectiveness she feels for them, Lillian ultimately begins to accept that she needs these strange children as much as they need her—urgently and fiercely. Couldn’t this be the start of the amazing life she’d always hoped for?
Room Novel by Emma Donoghue
*Room* is an intense and gripping read, inspired by real-life abduction cases like “Fritzl.” This compelling novel tackles complex themes with sensitivity, offering a unique perspective through one of the best child narrators in literature. It’s an excellent choice for book clubs, providing rich material for discussion about survival, resilience, and the bond between mother and child. The story’s depth and emotional impact make it a must-read that will stay with you long after the final page.
It’s Jack’s birthday, and he’s excited about turning five. Jack lives with his Ma in Room, which has a locked door and a skylight, and measures 11 feet by 11 feet. He loves watching TV, and the cartoon characters he calls friends, but he knows that nothing he sees on screen is truly real only him, Ma and the things in Room. Until the day Ma admits that there’s a world outside …
Don’t miss out on this captivating YA fantasy romance:
*Coded Life* is ready to transport you to the world of Genius and immerse you in Tiffany and Adrian’s unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a fan of slow-burn romances, friends-to-lovers tropes, or richly built dystopian worlds, “Coded Life” has something for everyone. Dive in and discover the magic for yourself! Read more here about Coded Life which is available on Amazon.
The Four Winds by Kristin Hannah
*The Four Winds* by Kristin Hannah is a powerful and heart-wrenching tale of one woman’s relentless journey to save her family during the Great Depression. This evocative novel delves into themes of resilience, sacrifice, and hope, making it a standout choice for book clubs. As with all of Hannah’s works, *The Four Winds* is deeply emotional and thought-provoking, offering rich material for discussion. It’s a must-read that captures the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
Texas, 1934. Elsa Martinelli had finally found the life she’d yearned for. A family, a home and a livelihood on a farm on the Great Plains. But when drought threatens all she and her community hold dear, Elsa’s world is shattered to the winds.
Fearful of the future, when Elsa wakes to find her husband has fled, she is forced to make the most agonizing decision of her life. Fight for the land she loves or take her beloved children, Loreda and Ant, west to California in search of a better life. Will it be the land of milk and honey? Or will their experience challenge every ounce of strength they possess?
From the overriding love of a mother for her child, the value of female friendship and the ability to love again – against all odds – Elsa’s incredible journey is a story of survival, hope and what we do for the ones we love.
The Storyteller by Jodi Picoult
Historical fiction is always a book club favorite, and *The Storyteller* is a perfect example of why. This gripping novel, set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, explores the complexities of guilt, redemption, and the weight of history. It’s a thought-provoking read that vividly brings the past to life, making it an astounding choice for lovers of historical fiction and World War II narratives. With its compelling storyline and richly drawn characters, *The Storyteller* offers a profound exploration of moral dilemmas and the power of storytelling. Some stories live forever . . .
Sage Singer is a baker. She works through the night, preparing the day’s breads and pastries, trying to escape a reality of loneliness, bad memories, and the shadow of her mother’s death. When Josef Weber, an elderly man in Sage’s grief support group, begins stopping by the bakery, they strike up an unlikely friendship. Despite their differences, they see in each other the hidden scars that others can’t, and they become companions.
Everything changes on the day that Josef confesses a long-buried and shameful secret—one that nobody else in town would ever suspect—and asks Sage for an extraordinary favor. If she says yes, she faces not only moral repercussions, but potentially legal ones as well. With her own identity suddenly challenged, and the integrity of the closest friend she’s ever had clouded, Sage begins to question the assumptions and expectations she’s made about her life and her family. When does a moral choice become a moral imperative? And where does one draw the line between punishment and justice, forgiveness and mercy?
In this searingly honest novel, Jodi Picoult gracefully explores the lengths we will go in order to protect our families and to keep the past from dictating the future.
The Keeper of Lost Things by Ruth Hogan
*The Keeper of Lost Things* by Ruth Hogan is a captivating tale that explores the interconnected lives of people and their lost items. With its rich diversity in characters and intriguing storyline, this novel offers plenty of material for a lively book club discussion. The charming narrative delves into themes of loss, redemption, and the magic of unexpected connections, making it a delightful and thought-provoking choice for any reading group. This book is a must-read for those who enjoy heartwarming stories with a touch of mystery.
Once a celebrated author of short stories now in his twilight years, Anthony Peardew has spent half his life collecting lost objects, trying to atone for a promise broken many years before.
Realising he is running out of time, he leaves his house and all its lost treasures to his assistant Laura, the one person he can trust to fulfil his legacy and reunite the thousands of objects with their rightful owners.
But the final wishes of the ‘Keeper of Lost Things‘ have unforeseen repercussions which trigger a most serendipitous series of encounters . . .
American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins
*American Dirt* by Jeanine Cummins is an extraordinary and gripping tale hailed as a modern classic, drawing comparisons to *The Grapes of Wrath*. It follows a harrowing journey of survival and hope, exploring the realities of immigration and the human spirit. This epic narrative offers profound insights and is sure to spark intense and meaningful discussions in any book club. It’s a standout choice for 2022, perfect for those seeking a powerful and unforgettable reading experience.
Lydia Perez owns a bookshop in Acapulco, Mexico, and is married to a fearless journalist. Luca, their eight-year-old son, completes the picture. But it only takes a bullet to rip them apart.
In a city in the grip of a drug cartel, friends become enemies overnight, and Lydia has no choice but to flee with Luca at her side. North for the border… whatever it takes to stay alive. The journey is dangerous – not only for them, but for those they encounter along the way. Who can be trusted? And what sacrifices is Lydia prepared to make?
The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth
*The Mother-in-Law* is an incredibly unique and thrilling story filled with unexpected twists and turns. This novel explores the complex dynamics between a woman and her enigmatic mother-in-law, making it a perfect choice for thought-provoking book club discussions. With its surprising elements and gripping narrative, this book is sure to spark lively debates and keep readers on the edge of their seats. It’s an excellent pick for those looking for a captivating and discussion-worthy read!
From the moment Lucy met her husband’s mother, Diana, she was kept at arm’s length. Diana was exquisitely polite and properly friendly, but Lucy knew that she was not what Diana envisioned. But who could fault Diana? She was a pillar of the community, an advocate for social justice who helped female refugees assimilate to their new country. Diana was happily married to Tom and lived in wedded bliss for decades. Lucy wanted so much to please her new mother-in-law.
That was five years ago.
Now, Diana has been found dead, a suicide note near her body. Diana claims that she no longer wanted to live because of a battle with cancer.
But the autopsy finds no cancer.
The autopsy does find traces of poison and suffocation.
Who could possibly want Diana dead?
Why was her will changed at the eleventh hour to disinherit both of her adult children and their spouses?
With Lucy’s secrets getting deeper and her relationship with her mother-in-law growing more complex as the pages turn, this new novel from Sally Hepworth is sure to add to her growing legion of fans.
City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert
Elizabeth Gilbert’s latest novel, *City of Girls*, immerses readers in the glamorous and turbulent world of 1940s NYC theater through the eyes of the captivating Vivian. If your book club is seeking an absolute page-turner, this novel is a perfect pick. It’s guaranteed to spark lively discussions with its rich storytelling and vibrant characters, making it one of the best book club suggestions. Dive into this enthralling tale and get ready for a memorable reading experience!
New York, 1940. Young, glamorous and inseparable, Vivian and Celia are chasing trouble from one end of the city to the other. But there is risk in all this play – that’s what makes it so fun, and so dangerous. Sometimes, the world may feel like it’s ending, but for Vivian and Celia, life is just beginning.
City of Girls is about daring to break conventions and follow your desires: a celebration of glamour, resilience, growing up, and the joys of female friendship – and about the freedom that comes from finding a place you truly belong.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern
Step into the enchanting world of *The Night Circus*, a mesmerizing tale of circus magic and mystery. Perfect for fans of fantasy fiction, this spellbinding story weaves a captivating narrative filled with intriguing characters and magical wonders. It’s a top recommendation for book clubs, promising to spark fascinating discussions and transport readers to an extraordinary realm. If your book club loves fantasy and adventure, *The Night Circus* is an absolute must-read!
The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.
But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway: a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them both, this is a game in which only one can be left standing. Despite the high stakes, Celia and Marco soon tumble headfirst into love, setting off a domino effect of dangerous consequences, and leaving the lives of everyone, from the performers to the patrons, hanging in the balance.
The Lost for Words Bookshop by Stephanie Butland
*The Lost for Words Bookshop* is the ultimate read for bibliophiles! This quirky, funny, and emotional tale of a book nerd will delight anyone who loves books. It’s a heartwarming and entertaining story, making it a fantastic addition to your book club’s list of fun and happy reads. Don’t miss out on this charming novel that’s sure to spark joy and lively discussions among your group!
Loveday Cardew prefers books to people. If you look carefully, you might glimpse the first lines of the novels she loves most tattooed on her skin. But there are some things Loveday will never show you.
Into her refuge – the York book emporium where she works – come a poet, a lover, a friend, and three mysterious deliveries, each of which stirs unsettling memories.
Everything is about to change for Loveday. Someone knows about her past and she can’t hide any longer. She must decide who around her she can trust. Can she find the courage to right a heartbreaking wrong? And will she ever find the words to tell her own story?
The Nightingale Novel by Kristin Hannah
Bestselling author Kristin Hannah delivers an inspirational historical fiction set in the harrowing environment of WWII. *The Nightingale* is an exceptional choice for book clubs, offering a poignant tale of courage and resilience. To explore the full list of Kristin Hannah’s books in order, dive into this post for more captivating reads. Perfect for sparking meaningful discussions in your book group!
This story is about what it was like to be a woman during World War II when women’s stories were all too often forgotten or overlooked . . . Vianne and Isabelle Mauriac are two sisters, separated by years and experience, by ideals and passion and circumstance, each embarking on her own dangerous path towards survival, love and freedom in war-torn France.
Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Liane Moriarty’s *Big Little Lies* is a must-read on this list of popular books for book clubs. This captivating story of three women will leave you awestruck with its blend of humor, whimsy, and fascinating twists. Perfect for sparking lively discussions, it’s a book club favorite you won’t want to miss!
A murder…A tragic accident…Or just parents behaving badly? What’s indisputable is that someone is dead.
Madeline is a force to be reckoned with. She’s funny, biting, and passionate; she remembers everything and forgives no one. Celeste is the kind of beautiful woman who makes the world stop and stare but she is paying a price for the illusion of perfection. New to town, single mom Jane is so young that another mother mistakes her for a nanny. She comes with a mysterious past and a sadness beyond her years. These three women are at different crossroads, but they will all wind up in the same shocking place.
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane
Keane’s new book, *Ask Again, Yes*, delves into themes of struggle, forgiveness, and resilience, examining the intricate complexities of relationships. This compelling novel stands out as a must-read for book clubs, offering rich material for deep discussions. Its exploration of human connections makes it a top recommendation among book club fiction choices in the post.
When the Gleesons and the Stanhopes become neighbours, lonely Lena Gleeson wants a friend. But Anne Stanhope – cold, elegant, unstable – wants to be left alone.
It’s left to their children – Lena’s youngest, Kate, and Anne’s only child, Peter – to find their way to one another.
To form a friendship whose resilience and love will be almost broken by the fault line dividing both families, and a tragedy that will engulf them all.
A tragedy whose true origins only become clear many years later . . .
When everything has fallen apart, can their children’s love pull it back together again?
All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
*All The Light We Cannot See*This PULITZER PRIZE-winning novel is an exceptional choice for your book club. It’s vivid, enthralling, and deeply emotive, showcasing some of the best writing ever. This masterpiece promises to engage and inspire thoughtful discussions, making it a standout recommendation for any reading group.
Marie-Laure lives with her father in Paris near the Museum of Natural History where he works as the master of its thousands of locks. When she is six, Marie-Laure goes blind and her father builds a perfect miniature of their neighborhood so she can memorize it by touch and navigate her way home. When she is twelve, the Nazis occupy Paris, and father and daughter flee to the walled citadel of Saint-Malo, where Marie-Laure’s reclusive great uncle lives in a tall house by the sea. With them they carry what might be the museum’s most valuable and dangerous jewel.
In a mining town in Germany, the orphan Werner grows up with his younger sister, enchanted by a crude radio they find. Werner becomes an expert at building and fixing these crucial new instruments, a talent that wins him a place at a brutal academy for Hitler Youth, then a special assignment to track the Resistance. More and more aware of the human cost of his intelligence, Werner travels through the heart of the war and, finally, into Saint-Malo, where his story and Marie-Laure’s converge.
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
John Green’s novel may not be a life-changing story, but it’s an emotional roller coaster that you won’t forget. Despite its familiar theme, the book possesses a unique charm that captivates readers. It’s a compelling choice for your book club, promising engaging discussions and heartfelt moments. Add this to your list of most interesting book club reads!
Despite the tumor-shrinking medical miracle that has bought her a few years, Hazel has never been anything but terminal, her final chapter inscribed upon diagnosis. But when a gorgeous plot twist named Augustus Waters suddenly appears at Cancer Kid Support Group, Hazel’s story is about to be completely rewritten.
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Let me know which books are your favorite and if you had a discussion about it in your Book Club!