By Alexandra Lourenco
Are you looking for your next beach read or something to freshen up your reading list?
I have 5 new books from female authors that are must reads! From flirty beach reads to books discussing grief and self-discovery to nail-biting thrillers, there are books for just about everyone!
Which one will be your next read?
#1 Everyone is Lying to You by Jo Piazza
Released on July 15th, this book takes a twist on the tradwife trend. Bex and Lizzie were best friends in college, but after graduating Bex disappeared. Now, fifteen years later, Bex goes by Rebecca and is a “traditional wife” influencer who posts about her perfect life with her kids and husband. Out of nowhere Rebecca calls Lizzie to give her an exclusive interview with her about her business and an invite to the influencer conference Mom Bomb. At the conference, Rebecca goes missing and her husband is murdered at the ranch. Lizzie is now stuck in the dark side of social media and has to learn about her old friend to find her and clear her name.
Jo Piazza is a bestselling author, journalist, and podcast creator. Her podcast Under the Influence delves into the world of influencers and the impact they have. This riveting novel brings readers into the hidden side of MomTok and tradwife culture.
#2 Aftertaste by Daria Lavelle
What would you do for another meal with a lost loved one?
Konstantin Duhovny is a man haunted by grief. He lost his father at a young age and has been surrounded by ghosts ever since. Rather than see or communicate with ghosts, Konstantin can taste their favorite foods. He has kept this ability a secret for years, but one night he decides to create what he tastes and reunite people with their lost loved ones for one more meal. He has found a new sense of purpose with this revelation and is determined to reunite people with their loved ones, but he does not notice the danger of his actions. However, the only person aware that he must be stopped, is falling for him.
Daria Lavelle is a local writer from the New York Metropolitan area who writes fictional stories with a unique twist. She blends Konstantin’s culinary passions with a budding romance and the topic of grief. This is an amazing read that immerses you into the story of a grieving man who encounters love and desires to find closure with his past.
#3 One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
Alice spent one summer at her Nan’s cottage when she was seventeen. That was when she took the photo of three teens in a yellow speed boat that inspired her love for photography. She has been living behind her camera, but now looks to have something more. When Nan breaks her hip, she comes back to the cottage at Barry’s Bay hoping to be moved by the magic of it. She expects to indulge in a peaceful summer when the yellow speed boat and the man driving it interrupt her plans.
Carley Fortune is known for her fun and flirty beach reads. This book transports readers to a wonderful summer setting and makes you fall for the characters.
#4 Audre and Bash are Just Friends by Tia Williams
Audre is the president of her class, captain of the debate team, and regarded as the unofficial school therapist. Bash is the mysterious new senior everyone is crushing on. On the last day of school, Audre’s life is a mess. Her dad cancelled her annual visit to his Malibu house and now she is stuck in a cramped apartment with her family while trying to write a self-help book that is the key to her admission at Stanford University. She needs to get juicy materials for her book, so she creates the “Experience Challenge” and hires Bash to help her complete five dares. They are not looking for romance, but as they spend more time together, they struggle to stay professional.
Tia Williams is a go to for fun and sweet romance novels. This young adult book is light and easy—perfect for a day on the beach!
#5 The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
Sybil Delling is a diviner. She has spent nine years having visions in her dreams from the entities known as the Omens. These visions enable her to predict horrible things, and because of this people come from all over to learn about their future. As her and her fellow Diviners decade of service is coming to an end, a knight comes to the cathedral in which they live. This knight, Rodrick, has no respect for Sybil’s visions, but when the Diviners begin to disappear he is her only hope as she looks to find answers from the Gods.
Rachel Gillig is well known for her Shepherd King series. This novel creates an enchanting and vivid world with myths and ancient lore that drive the novel. This is a story about self-discovery and the ups and downs of life. With romance, in depth story telling, and life lessons, this is a great read.
Find your next beach read at Dear Reader Books & Stationery in Wyckoff, New Jersey
Walking into this store felt like being transported to my dream library!
Independently owned by Allie Yanofsky, this cozy bookstore has an amazing selection of books, and everyone is so friendly and welcoming. I would definitely recommend visiting this bookstore and if you live nearby, join their book club!