Turning the calendar page (literally or virtually) into January always marks a fresh start — maybe for a new fitness plan, a new job or new goals. For me, it’s the launch of my next novel, The Kindred Spirits Supper Club, out April 20.
For book readers, January also marks the time to create a new TBR list for upcoming titles. My own TBR is already too long and getting longer by the day. Here are just some of the titles that make me wish time would move faster.
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island by Colleen Oakley
April 20, 2021
When investigative reporter Amelia discovers that a cluster of embryos belonging to her childhood friend Parker and his late wife have been deemed “abandoned,” she sets into motion a chain of events that causes big secrets to be revealed and lives —including hers — to be unutterably altered in the process. Harvey delivers a fresh and unforgettable portrait of modern parenthood and the thoroughly traditional ways that love continues to conquer all.
If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy
May 25, 2021
What happens when a young journalist discovers a woman pretending her dead husband is still alive, and the entire town is going along with it? USA Today bestselling author Colleen Oakley delivers an unforgettable love story about an eccentric community, a grieving widow, and an outsider who slowly learns that sometimes faith is more important than the facts.
People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
May 5, 2021
I love books about female friendship, and Tif Marcelo’s next one sounds fantastic: three Army wives — estranged friends — who must overcome their differences when one of them is desperate for help. As the three women reunite, they must overcome past hurts and see if there’s any future for their friendship. In a Book Club Far Away honors the immense power of female friendship and how love can defy time, distance, and all old wounds.
The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton
August 3, 2021
In her first adult novel, Murphy’s next book is a modern rom-com take on Cinderella. Cindy, plus-size shoe designer, joins a reality show in the hopes of jump-starting her fashion career, and becomes a body positivity icon for women everywhere. What she doesn’t expect? That she may just find inspiration and love in the process. Ultimately, Cindy learns that if the shoe doesn’t fit, maybe it’s time to design your own.
The Summer of Lost and Found by Mary Alice Monroe
April 27, 2021
When Meddelin Chan ends up accidentally killing her blind date, her meddlesome mother calls for her even more meddlesome aunties to help get rid of the body. But things go from inconvenient to downright torturous when Meddy’s great college love — and biggest heartbreak — makes a surprise appearance amid the chaos of the Chan family’s biggest wedding-business client yet. Yes, please!
May 11, 2021
I adored Emily Henry’s Beach Read, and cannot wait for her follow up about two best friends, ten summer trips, and one last chance to fall in love. Do you really need to know more? Henry’s books are fun, big-hearted, and essential summer reading. Bring it on!
January 26, 2021
Kelly Simmons’ next book promises to be a twisty thrill ride. When Hannah packs up her past and moves to the cottage next door to her sister, she hopes the luxe neighborhood and close family ties will be the perfect escape for her son and the shadows that trail them. But when a young girl goes missing days after they unload their final boxes and her son is quickly thrown under suspicion, Hannah must do whatever it takes to protect her child. Even if that means pointing the blame her sister’s way instead.
June 15, 2021
Historical romance plus pirates and charming assassins plus lady thieves, with all the strong feminist energy I love. The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels promises some swoony and swashbuckling scenes and I AM HERE FOR IT. This was an immediate pre-order and now I’m counting down the days until it arrives.
February 23, 2021
Need a family drama fix? Sonja Yoerg’s The Family Ship is about 18-year-old Verity, who is the captain of the USS Nepenthe with her seven younger siblings as her crew. Verity’s had it with being tied to the ship and secretly applies to a distant college. If only her parents could bear to let her go. When disaster strikes and the family unravels, Verity must rally her siblings to keep the Nepenthe and all it symbolizes afloat. Sailing away from home, she discovers, is never easy — not if you ever hope to find your way back. Drama delivered.
May 11, 2021
Summer wouldn’t be complete without a new book from Mary Alice Monroe — bonus points if it has sea turtles. In The Summer of Lost and Found, we revisit the Rutledge Family who continues to face their challenges with the strength, faith and commitment that has inspired fans for decades — plus sea turtles! Summer complete.
