Toni's Book Corner

Category: recommendations

  • 6 Non-Romance Books with a strong Romance Plot

    6 Non-Romance Books with a strong Romance Plot

    The familiar is comforting, and often we stick to what we know. It can be daunting to try something new for fear we will not like it. In case of reading, this can pertain to genres. There are many genres of books, and as readers we have our preferences. But, if you never try something new, you won’t know if you like it. What can help when trying new genres is to find books of other that have elements of the ones you already know and love. Many books of all genres have love or romance in them, so if you are a romance reader who wants to branch out to other genres, these books might be perfect for you.

    True Colours by Kristin Hannah

    True Colours is a contemporary fiction novel, but has a considerable portion of romance in it. The story is about three sisters, growing up on the family’s ranch. Their stern father is the only parent they have after their mother passed away when they were younger. The girls have always had each other to lean on, but when they get older this starts to change. Vivi Ann, the youngest, continues working on the ranch with her father and is clearly favoured by him, but also by many people in town. Winona is the eldest, and has always struggled with her self-worth and winning her father’s approval, which facilitates feelings of jealousy towards Vivi-Ann. Aurora is always playing the peacekeeper between her two sisters, keeping her own struggles to herself. When a mysterious stranger arrives, he stirs up the town gossip and sweeps one of the sisters off her feet, but then something terrible happens. Can the sisters put aside their grievances and stick together once more, or will their bond be forever broken? 

    While there is a focus on the theme of family and sisterhood that is very prevalent, an important part of the plot also involves a very passionate and strong romantic love. Therefore, it is the perfect book for romance lovers who want to dip their toe in a contemporary fiction. 

    Frank & Red by Matt Coyne

    It all started with a trampoline…Frank & Red is a beautiful story about a grumpy old man and an enthusiastic six year old with a trampoline.The story follows an old man, Frank, whose deeply rooted sorrow in losing his wife has made him secluded and a real grump. One day, six year old Red moves in next door with his mom, since his parents just got divorced. They are both struggling in their own way, and find unexpected companionship in each other. Despite Frank’s reluctance to let Red in, the latter’s persistence eventually warms the old man up. When Red discovers something about Frank’s past, he decides to take matters into his own hands, but that just might be the opposite of what the old man wants. 

    While it is not at the center of the story, the beginning of the books shows flashbacks to when Frank met his wife Marcy, and she is prevalent throughout the entire novel in a way. Frank is the way he is because of her, and therefore this is an important part of the plot. Their love is tangible throughout the entire book, and adds a spark of romance to this contemporary fiction novel. 

    Stars in an Italian Sky by Jill Santopolo

    Set in 1946 Genoa Italy and 2017 New York, this dual timeline story about two lovers is a historical fiction. However, the plot revolves around Vicenzo and Giovanna who fall in love despite their differences in descent. He is the son of a count and she is the daughter of a tailor, but their connection is so strong that they do everything to make it work. When political tensions rise, the couple is faced with difficult choices, and when betrayal comes to light, their future is shattered. Dozens of years later, a young engaged couple brings their grandparents together to pose for a portret, and past and present come together. 

    Set against a historical and political backdrop, this is a historical fiction that has a plot centering around romance.

    Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

    When a young woman goes through a divorce, a depression, and another failed love, she lost track of her dreams, her goals and her identity. She makes the drastic decision to quit her job and travel the world to re-find her own happiness and fulfilment by going on a literal and spiritual journey of one whole year. She documented her journey of self-discovery and published it in her memoir: Eat, Pray. It reads away as a fiction novel, with the added depth of realising this is a true story. It is also a story filled with love and romance, so it is the perfect place to start for readers who want to discover memoirs, and for romance readers. 

    Days at the Torunka Café by Satoshi Yagisawa

    Welcome at the Torunka Café, hidden away in a small alleyway that branches off of the market street. People who are meant to find the place will see a tabby cat, that they only have to follow to stumble upon this haven of peace. Come inside, enjoy a warm cup of coffee and find peace. 

    The novel is made up of three stories following different protagonists, that show how lives can run divergent, but how they can also come together at a certain point, as if decided by fate. This healing fiction novel advocates for life to slow down in a world where speed and productivity are often celebrated. While it is not a romance novel, all three of the three stories involve feelings of love and romance in some way, and Yagisawa gives readers that farm and fuzzy feeling that romance readers often enjoy. 

    The Favourites by Layne Fargo

    This novel is currently relevant for people who have been watching the Olympic winter games and especially enjoyed the figure skaters. The Favourites got very popular last year and Layne Fargo has created a stunning debut with this one. Following Katarina Shaw and Heath Rocha, this novel not only shows the ruthless way to the top for a professional athlete, but also the passionate relationship between the two protagonists. If you have read Wuthering Heights, you will know that this modern day adaptation of the classic won’t be a traditional love story, but rather involves, passion, rivalry and drama. If you want to read a book that will hook you from the start, draw you into a world of skating and competition and one that is filled with intense love, The Favourites might be your next favourite. 

  • Books I read recently, and would recommend

    Books I read recently, and would recommend

    For today’s post, I wanted to recommend some books that I enjoyed. As I was looking for a theme to center the recommendations around, I was looking through the books I read recently. So, I thought, why not just recommend some of the books I read and enjoyed recently. These are books I read over the last few weeks and that I have not yet included in other articles. Hopefully you can find a new book you like from these recommendations!

    59 Minutes by Holly Sedon

    An apocalyptic book set in England, following three different storylines that become intertwined. When everyone in England suddenly receives a nuclear alert on their phone, there are only 59 minutes left. 59 minutes to find shelter, 59 minutes to get to the people you love, 59 minutes during which the worst of humanity is revealed. Unfortunately, I had a pretty good idea of the situations that would arise when people are faced with their world ending in less than an hour, but that didn’t make it less confronting to read. This was such an original premise, and Sedon delivered a lot of depth in this thrilling novel. With dread in my heart, I saw the ending coming and it is a tough one. But, if you are looking for a thrilling novel that has some depth and an apocalyptic setting, this is the book for you.

    The Night We Met by Abby Jimenez

    Something completely different, but also really good. Like all of Jimenez’ previous books that I have read, I really enjoyed this one. When Larissa has to choose who to ride home with after a concert, the options are Mike or Chris. Chris and her have so much in common, and they feel deeply connected. But Chris is not the one she chose that night. Chris is Mike’s, the one she actually went home with and has been her boyfriend ever since, best friend. I liked that there was more than just the romance, since the book also shows Larissa’s struggle with income and finding her passion. There is also a strong friend group in this book and some emotionally really mature characters, which is always refreshing and fun to read about.

    Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah

    It seems I cannot make a list of recommendations without including a Kristin Hannah book. Between Sisters is a bit different from most of her other books, since it is not historical fiction, and a bit less heavy than some others. It is a story of two sisters who have a strained relationship that they start to mend over the course of the storyline. If you like reading about complicated family ties, you might enjoy this book. There are still serious themes that I won’t say to avoid spoilers, but it is an overal hopeful book.

    One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune

    This one I recently listened to as an audiobook, but I think it would be just as well to read it. Alice goes to stay with her grandmother at the lake to help her get back on her feet after a fall. Here she meets Charlie, who has promised her to patch up the lake house. The two start to build a real friendship, but when feelings stir Charlie holds her off. Both afraid to open up for different reasons, they slowly find comfort in each other. Alice has to figure out where she wants to go with her photography career after struggling to find her own voice, and Charlie has a secret of his own that will determine the outcome of their relationship.

  • 3 Books that will make you happy

    3 Books that will make you happy

    People read for many different reasons. To escape daily life, to learn new things, to become completely immersed in another universe or even to get your adrenaline pumping from start to finish. We will crave different types of books at different times of life, and I myself have a varied book taste. However, one thing I think we can all never have enough of is some positive vibes and happiness. Therefore, I wanted to recommend some books that will make you happy when reading them. No complexities, no tough subject matter, just positive vibes.

    Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young

    Out on a Limb is a problem free romance between two characters who hook up at their best friends’ halloween party and find themselves with an unexpected pregnancy. As they figure out co-parenting and forge a deeper connection, they focus on healthy relationships and clear communication. This is the most problem-free romance I have ever read, and it is a beautiful story that will make you feel warm and happy.

    The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

    This story follows Anna and West, who get married without knowing each other while studying at UCLA to get access to subsidised family housing. Three years and a divorce later, Annie is working as an artist, living from paycheque to paycheque, when her not so ex-husband reluctantly contacts her again. Set to inherit one-hundred-million dollars, he has to first prove to his grandfather that he has been happily married for at least five years. There shouldn’t be a problem, since West has told his family he married years ago. It also shouldn’t be a problem that his family finally wants to meet his mystery wife. The problem is that there is no wife. Enter, Anna. Accompanying him on a family wedding trip, the two have to convince everyone they have been in love for years already, when in reality they hardly know the first thing about each other. If the tropical, sunny, bridal setting does not make you happy, maybe the eternal optimistic Anna will, or the way a true love starts to grow out of a lie.

    Welcome to the Hynam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum

    As I just wrote an in depth review of this book that will come out later this month, I don’t want to write about it in length yet hear. What I will say, is that this follows the main character Yeongju as she starts a bookshop. We meet characters who become involved and slowly but surely form a community together out of unlikely connections. People from different ways of life come together, offering support and advice when society can feel pressuring. It is a slow moving story, offering more comfort than plot, but making you feel reassured and happy with life as it is.

  • Six Romance Books for Spring

    Six Romance Books for Spring

    Now that it’s officially spring, it is time to recommend some spring books to read, and today those are specifically romance books. As summer, far and winter (particularly the holidays) are more popular for books tailored to that season, I did my best to find books that really embody spring. To me, that means happy, lighthearted vibes, growth and new things. But most of all, to me spring is the season of hope and feelings that bloom. Here are my recommendations for romance books that perfectly encapsulate those exact feelings.

    Out of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young

    Unlike most romance novels, the love interests in Out of the Woods are already a couple at the start of the book. Bonam-Young introduces Sarah and Caleb in her first instalment of this interconnected standalone duo logy, Out on a Limb. The high school sweethearts have been married for quite a while and still love each other strongly. However, getting together at such a young age is a challenge to their own identities: where do their individualities end and where does their relationship begin? Who are they without each other? To find their way back to each other and themselves, Sarah and Caleb partake in a week-long hiking retreat to help struggling relationships. Will they find their way back, or will their love get lost in the wilderness? Spring is all about growth and hopeful new beginnings, sentiments that Out of the Woods perfectly embodies. This novel explores themes like identity, love in longer relationships and independency versus trust. Since a large part of the book also involves hiking and camping out in nature, the setting is also perfect for spring.

    First Time Caller by B.K. Borison

    Not only does First Time Caller take place in the spring, but Borison has given readers a very original romance plot with this book. Radio host of Baltimore’s romance hotline, Aiden Valentine, has lost his love for love, and his job is starting to suffer from it. That is until one night, the radio receives a call from a young girl, asking for dating advice on her mother’s behalf. Listeners go wild for the ensuing conversation between Aiden and Lucie Stone, who eventually agrees to be set up on dates for the program. But when romance starts to stir, it might not be between her and the gentlemen taking her out, but rather with the charismatic radio host who starts to dislike his own new segment more and more with each passing date. First Time Caller is often associated with Valentine’s Day, however, I think it is filled with hopeful new beginnings, and fits the spring season perfectly.

    The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary

    As you may know, I cannot recommend any type of romance book without including anything by Beth O’Leary. She has some very unique concepts for her novels, and her debut, The Flatshare, is no exception. When Tiffy needs to find a new apartment to get away from her cheating ex-boyfriend, she ends up sharing a flat with Leon. The catch? The apartment only has one bedroom. The solution? Tiffy takes the flat from the evening until the morning, while Leon, who works the night shift, uses the fact during the day. The new roommates get to know each other through a series of notes, and despite never meeting each other, their connection starts to grown. The Flatshare is a lighthearted, sweet romance, that literally feels like a sunny, bright spring day.

    Swear On This Life by Renee Carlino

    Emiline works as an adjunct writing instructor in stead of having the flourishing writing career she’s always dreamed of. When a young new author suddenly gains popularity with a debut novel, she is reluctant to read it, but when she finally starts the novel, she is taken aback. Reading about the story of two childhood best friends falling in love and dreaming of a better life together sounds a little bit too familiar to be coincidental. Realising that the author has used a penname and is actually Jackson, a person from her past, she is furious that he has used that painful past to write his novel. The only way to move forward is to confront her beginnings, but is she ready to face the boy she once knew, or will the ending of their real story be an unhappy ever after? Carlino utilises flashbacks to tell both timelines, so it is not just set in one specific season or year. It is a story of second chances, staring anew and hoping for connection.

    Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

    This novel is a classic, so many people will already know it, but it is so perfectly fitted to the spring season that I had to recommend it. Set in nineteenth century England, a mother with five daughters’ main goal is to ensure they are all married to a rich and respectable husband. When a wealthy gentleman moves into the estate near them, Mrs. BEnnet is confident one of her girls will marry him. While Jane, the eldest, forms an early attachment to the newcomer, Lizzie is less impressed with his stern and unsociable friend, Mr. Darcy. The two find themselves in each others company more often than expected, and are not amiable to say the least. But, when feelings start to stir, will Mr. Darcy’s pride stand in the way of true love? Or will it be Lizzie’s prejudice that proves too strong to overcome a genuine connection? This literary masterpiece covers a budding, growing attachment between the two main characters that is parallel to the feeling spring often brings out.

    Once upon a broken heart by Stephanie Garber

    Although this is not technically a romance, Garber has written a fantasy novel where romance is an important part of the plot. Evangeline Fox is heartbroken when the love of her life is suddenly marrying her sister. To fix her devastating situation, she decides to do the one thing all the fairytales have advised against: making a deal with a Fate. She quickly realises the warnings were not unfounded when she gets increasingly tangled up in the web of plans and schemes that is Jacks, the Prince of Hearts. This whimsical romantic fantasy is filled with magic, fairytales and love, perfect for the spring season and letting your imagination run wild.

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  • Books I think are worth the hype

    Books I think are worth the hype

    With the rise of attention on books in social media, some titles have gone viral with thousands or even millions of recommendations. While tastes can differ, these are books that the majority of people (online) agree upon as being worth your time. It is either a blessing or a trap, to find a book you love just as much as anyone else, or to feel like you have been lied to. I myself have read a good amount of books that are very popular online, and have experienced both of these emotions. Some books that I read because I saw them highly recommended I heartily enjoyed, but some I did not like reading at all. Since I like to keep things positive here, I will recommend you some titles that are highly popular online, that I think deserve the praise.

    Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas

    Sarah J. Maas is one of the biggest names in the online book community, and has been for a while. With three series out, that I have all three read and can recommend to the fullest, she has recently taken the internet by storm again by announcing her two next releases. While ACOTAR is probably her most popular series, Throne of Glass is very close behind and my personal favourite. A theme with some of the book in this article is that I have read them before the got so popular, which means I read them because I liked their contents, and not just because a bunch of people online could not stop talking about them. Throne of Glass is a fantasy series about a girl who has to compete in trials to escape slavery and in stead become the king’s champion. What follows in a story that goes beyond your wildest imagination, where the stakes are high, the characters fleshed out, wonderful and brave, and where every rolling pebble eventually becomes a landslide. If there is ever a book or series where the hype is totally justified, it is this one.

    The House Across the Lake by Riley Sager

    This is one of the books that got popular in the beginning of books gaining a space online, which coincided with (and was probably a consequence of) the pandemic. The House Across the Lake is a thriller about a woman moving to a lake house to gain some peace and quiet in her life. Across the lake, her neighbours Tom and Katherine make for a good pastime, as Casey watches them with her binoculars. After saving Katherine from drowning, the two start up a friendship, but it quickly becomes clear that her neighbours don’t have the perfect marriage they want to let the world believe they have. The novel is full of twists and turns, with thrilling moments and secrets all around. It is the girls Riley Sager book I ever read, and now I read everything he publishes.

    If It Makes You Happy by Julie Olivia

    Julie Olivia’s book is a more recent online hit, but deserves every praise it gets. It is a small town romance that is full of depth, development and nostalgia. Set in the 1990s, Michelle moves to Vermont to temporarily take over her late mom’s bed and breakfast before her younger sister has graduated, ready to run it fulltime. Her new next-door neighbour and his two daughters are extremely helpful in finding her way around everything and make the place feel more like home. Since she is leaving in three months, friendship is all she can offer the three of them, but as that date looms closer, she has to decide if friendship is truly all she wants.

    Magnolia Parks by Jessa Hastings

    I have to preface this by saying it is definitely not a book for everyone, and I had my doubts after reading the first one, but the second book had me hooked to the series. The storyline follows a group of high society friends, with Magnolia and BJ as the main characters as they go through what I like to call ‘rich people drama’. The first book had a bit too much of just that for me, but from the second book on there was more plot added which kept me interested. There is a lot of drama and toxicity involved, but for the people who want to escape reality and get sucked into a different and entertaining world reminiscent of Gossip Girl, Magnolia Parks is the way to go.

    A Little Life by Hanya Yanigahara

    I actually read this book about ten years ago, before it got popular online and before there even was such a big online book community as there is now. At first I was surprised to see it recommended this much online, because it is so unlike other books I saw discussed on social media, but it is a beautiful book so I have to agree with the praise. The cover perfectly portrays the devastating heartbreak that is this story about the life of four friends living in New York City and trying to find their way through life. Jude is the main focus of the story, as he is not only finding his way like his friends, but also struggling with a traumatic past that still haunts him everyday and has left him scarred. It is a tough read, as it is over 600 pages and filled with all of the emotions a human can feel, so if that does not sound like something you would enjoy, I would not recommend it. But, for people who want an emotional book filled with friendship, love, growth and heartache, it is definitely worth the hype.

    The Nightingale Kristin Hannah

    Kristin Hannah is another author I got to know via social media recommendations, and The Nightingale is the first book I read by her because I saw people talking about it online. As you might know from previous articles, I have read nine of her books in total so far, two of which I have read twice, so I would encourage you to read any of her books. The Nightingale is set in WWII France and follows two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, as they take two completely different paths dealing with the German intruder. This powerful story shows how bravery can have different faces, how far we will go to protect the people we love and how each sister takes a different path fighting for freedom.

    The Secret History by Donna Tart

    With over a million ratings on Goodreads, it is a highly popular book and has many opinions brought out. It follows a group of pretentious friends at an elite New England college. When a new student starts and slowly befriends the group, he discovers their eccentric way of thinking and living and follows along with them. When a chain of events leads to the death of a classmate, the novel deals with the consequences of pushing the boundaries of normal morality. While the story has a slower pace and is therefore not the easiest to fly through, it is filled with characters and a plot that makes you sit with your thoughts after finishing. There are layers and themes that can be analysed and discussed, so it lends itself perfectly to read as a bookclub book. I have also seen people say they think this will be a classic in years’ time, since there is much to be discussed about it.

    The Invisible Life of Addie Larue by V.E. Schwab.

    This book I s a bit similar to the Secret History, not in the plot but in the pacing. There are slower parts where the storyline does not move along at a high speed, but that is because it is a book largely driven by characters and emotions. Addie Larue makes a deal with the devil to live forever, but because of this she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she meets. An indefinite life of loneliness, spanning decades, countries and cultures, spent in countless ways trying to leave her mark on the world. But then everything changes, when in a hidden bookstore, there is a young man who remembers her name. This story is so much more than meets the eye and makes you think about life in a new way. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a character driven book with magical realism and a lot of emotion.

  • 5 Great Audiobooks

    5 Great Audiobooks

    In the digital age, there are more than one ways to read a book. Besides a physical copy, there are also ebooks and audiobooks. While I prefer reading a physical book, there are many advantages to its digital counterparts. An ebook is smaller, easier to bring along wherever you go, especially when you need multiple books. They are light and easy to hold, and many editions have built in light which makes it easy to read at night. I got into audiobooks a bit later than ebooks, because I sometimes find it hard to keep my focus on the story. I usually listen to audiobooks when I am doing something else, so it is easy to let my thoughts drift off and go on autopilot. The more books I have listened to though, the more I have started to enjoy them. It is wonderful to be able to listen to a book when you are doing something else like commuting, cleaning up, cooking, exercising, etc. I have found that some books lend themselves better to be read as a physical copy, ebook or audiobook, so in this article I will recommend some books that I found perfect in audiobook form.

    I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

    I have mentioned before how I enjoy listening to memoirs, and I think this is the genre I like the most for audiobooks. Especially when it is narrated by the author themselves, which is the case for McCurdy’s book. Hearing her tell her own story makes Jennette’s voice even more prominent than if I were to read the book and added a layer of emotion and depth that I really enjoyed. It is not an easy story, and it felt even more real by hearing it said out loud. In case you want to read more about my thoughts, you can read my article on my favourite memoirs.

    The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bishop

    Similar to McCurdy’s book, this is also a memoir narrated by the author herself. Not only is Bishop telling her own life story in this book, but she is also a fabulous actor, with a voice that perfectly fits the topic of broadway and her rise to fame. I won’t elaborate on my thought too much, because it is also featured in my article on memoirs, but I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much as I did if I had read it physically, rather than listened to the audiobook

    Promise me Sunshine by Cara Bastone

    I listened to this audiobook very recently, and it actually inspired me to write this article. It was the first book I had read by Bastone, and she did not disappoint. The book follows Lenny after she has just lost her best friend and has to figure out how to live again without her. When she meets Miles during a nannying gig, she does not realise he is her saviour just yet. As he helps her find the surface and breathe again after drowning for so long, she starts to realise he might be more than just a friend. Not only is this a wonderful book exploring grief in a heartbreaking and simultaneously beautiful way, but I think the voice actress did a terrific job. She portrayed all of the emotions in such a striking way, that I was never bored or distracted while listening to this book. Every character had a different voice register and inflection, which made the whole experience immersive, and made them feel like real people. Alex Fink has narrated all of Cara Bastone’s books, so I plan on listening to those very soon, because I truly enjoyed the ride.

    Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

    While I have tried and failed to read some fantasy books as an audiobook, Fourth Wing was so compelling that I got lost in this world immediately. The book gets thrilling almost right from the beginning and is not too complex in its world building that it is difficult to understand without being able to leaf back to pages with important information. I listened to the regular audio, but I think the dramatised version would be even more immersive and make it feel as if you are actually there, experiencing things alongside with the characters. They also used different voice actors for the point of view of the two main characters, which I always enjoy immensely. I still have to listen to part three of the series, but I will be sure to do it in audio version.

    The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren

    Although I don’t always enjoy listening to a romance book, the voice actors for the Paradise Problem were such a great fit that I flew through this one in a couple of days. Both the female and male main characters were voiced by different actors, which is a recurring theme in whether I really enjoy an audiobook or not. It always adds a layer of reality, although some actors are talented enough to create many different characters and make each of them as realistic as the other. Patti Murin’s voice was the embodiment of the bubbly, positive main character and Jon Root the perfect counterpart. This audiobook made me feel like I was on a tropical island with them, and made my commute to work feel like a preview to the summer holidays. The execution of this audiobook was absolutely wonderful, so I would strongly recommend it for romance lovers.

  • 7 Books I want to read again

    7 Books I want to read again

    The highest compliment you can give to a book, is that you want to read it again. Not only does it show you enjoyed it, but that you liked it so much you want to read it again, even though you already know everything that happens. This year, I have already read some of my favourite books again, for instance The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah and the entire Throne of Glass series by Sarah J. Maas, and they are some of the best books I have ever read. So, in stead of giving you recommendations of great books to read, I will list books that I have already read, but plan to read again sometime, because actions speak louder than words.

    The Favourites by Layne Fargo

    If the fact that I want to read this book again, less than a year after reading it the first time, does not convey how much I enjoyed this book, maybe the fact that I finished it in just over a day will. I was completely invested in the story of Kat and Heath and almost read it in one sitting. After the recent Olympic Games, Fargo’s book is extra relevant, especially for those who enjoyed watching the skating. She transports the classic story of Wuthering Heights to the modern setting of figure skating, where it is mostly the passion and toxicity between the protagonists that is taken from the original. Kat and Heath have been partners on the ice for years, and are skating their way to the Olympics. Their chemistry on the rink continues on into real life, but the way to the top is ruthless. After a dramatic turn at the Games themselves, their years-long partnership falls apart while the whole world is watching.

    Fargo tells this story in a documentary-style, which makes it even more captivating. Each character tells their version of the events so the reader can figure out what actually happened ten years earlier, one piece at a time. Picking up this book means getting swept away in a whirlwind of pirouettes, medals, passion and rivalry, and finding out what lies between ambition and love.

    Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum

    After reading Days at the Torunka Café, I was reminded of Bo-Reum’s book . The two have a similar atmosphere, in that they are both comforting, and promote feeling happiness in the little things of life in stead of striving after constant success, forward movement and speed. While reading this novel, it actually feels like you are in the bookstore, surrounded by the other characters, which made me feel incredibly peaceful. I have another book in this genre of healing fiction on my radar, but in the future I will re-read Welcome to the Huynam-Dong Bookshop to get that warm feeling again.

    Anxious People by Frederik Backman

    I recently wrote about Anxious People in my post on 6 books with the most original plot, and this made me realise how much I enjoyed reading this and what a wonderful book this was. Generally, I really appreciate books where the characters are truly developed and feel like real people, and this is definitely true for Anxious People. Not only is the plot unique and well-developed, filled with both fiction and thriller elements, the execution of the storyline is woven into the characters and the human connections they form with each other. The story is a beautiful reminder that we never know what other people are going through, and that we are never truly alone, even though it sometimes feels that way.

    Beach Read by Emily Henry

    As I mentioned earlier, I find it hard to rank Emily Henry’s books in terms of which one is my favourite. I have read most of her books by now, and enjoyed all of them. The reason I specifically want to read Beach Read again, is because the first time was a busy period for me, and I don’t feel like I got to enjoy it to the best of its abilities. Exactly because Henry’s books always make me fall in love with reading, I want to read Beach Read to its full potential. I Particularly enjoyed the setting by the lake and the meta-aspect of the protagonists both being writers. It gives an actual insight into what writing must be like for Henry herself, since I assumed authors often put little pieces of themselves into the subject matter they write about. Plus, I truly enjoyed all of the cameo’s of the books of both January and Gus in Henry’s other books. This was coincidentally the book I read right after The Favourites, so it was a great week of reading for me then.

    Frank & Red by Matt Coyne

    This will come as no surprise if you have read my review on Frank & Red. It was my first favourite of 2026 and really tugged at my heartstrings. The characters truly feel like friends at the end of the novel, which I why I want to read about them again. Since I have already gushed about this book quite a lot on my blog, I won’t write too much about it here, other than that I knew right when I turned over the last page that I would one day read this book again.

    Firefly Lane Kristin Hannah

    It could also come as no surprise that Kristin Hannah features on this list, since I have written many a positive word about her, and as mentioned in the intro I have re-read the Great Alone by her at the beginning of the year. Choosing which book of hers I wanted to re-read next was the most challenging part, and it was a toss-up between Firefly Lane and The Nightingale. I might pick the latter up again in the future as well, but since it is being made into a movie coming out in 2027, I will be more surprised watching it if the contents have moved to the back of my mind a bit more. I vividly remember how I felt while reading Firefly Lane, and it was full of many emotions. Though I have cried with almost each of her books, Firefly Lane really hit me hard, and that is because it is so relatable for many of us. The book shows the power of female friendship, and because I have been blessed by wonderful friends myself, it felt special reading about it. While I am convinced it is not the last Kristin Hannah book I will read once again, it is the next one on my list.

    Sense and Sensibility by Jane Austen

    Because of my Literary studies and interest in literature I have read many classics and Austen’s books have always been among my favourites. While I have read a few and have read her most famous work Pride and Prejudice multiple times already, I want to read Sense and Sensibility again soon. The first time I read it is already a few years ago, but I love the lyrical writing, reading about a different time, and the characters. It is a love story set in a different time, but still moves me as a reader in the 21th century. And, since the edition I have is incredibly beautiful, I have to honour it by reading it again.

  • Read this if you like…

    Read this if you like…

    Readers are often chasing the high of finding a book they love. Nothing beats loving a book, and then finding similar ones that you equally enjoy. To make this easier, I have compiled a list of some similar books, so that if you read and enjoyed one of them, you can find some new ones to try and hopefully love. Some of these recommendations are similar in plot, while other duo’s are more similar in characters, setting or atmosphere.

    If you like Misery by Stephen King, read The Crash by Freida McFadden

    If you enjoyed Misery particularly for the plot, I’d recommend McFadden’s book. The writing styles and pacing of both authors are quite different, but the plots are similar. In both books, the main character has a car crash that leaves them stranded and wounded in a snowstorm. They are rescued and brought to shelter by someone who will care for them until they are healed enough to go home or continue their journey. And then both situations turn sinister the longer they stay put. The details differ per book, but the main plot is similar.

    If you like A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman, read Frank & Red by Matt Coyne

    I have talked about both of these before in my Favourite Book of January post, and mentioned how they have some things in common. Backman writes about a lonely grumpy old man who warms up to the family that moves in next door, and Coyne writes about a lonely grumpy old man who warms up to the six year old boy and his mom who move in next door. While the premise of both novels is quite similar indeed, the execution and endings are different, which makes each book unique. Although the characters are one of a kind, I do believe Ove and Frank would get along. Both novels are heartwarming stories about human connections and the way of life, so if you like books like that, you will enjoy both of these.

    If you like And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie, read Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney

    Agatha Christie’s books have been used as inspiration for many different media, including And Then There were none. The story involves ten strangers who are invited to an island and then get killed one by one. Daisy Darker is about a family going to the home of their grandmother, getting cut off from the rest of the world by a storm, and then, you guessed it, getting killed one by one. A well-used formula for a thriller book, but one that always works at keeping readers’ attention and interest. 

    If you like Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie, read With a Vengeance by Riley Sager

    As I said, Agatha Christie’s work is a source of inspiration for many, and her arguably most famous novel has once again inspired another. In both of these books, a group of people find themselves on a train with a select group of people, when suddenly one of them is found dead. With no way out and a killer amongst them, will anyone reach their destination alive? 

    If you like Tangled the Disney Movie, read Tangled Up in You by Christina Lauren

    This one is quite obvious because Christina Lauren’s novel is based on the movie, but I find they did the adaptation to a modern context really well. They retain both the key elements of the story and the original essence of the characters while transporting the story to a modern context. Ren is Rapunzel brought to paper and I could not find a single element of the movie that does not make an appearance in the book, and I say that as a true fan of the Disney movie. 

    If you like Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë or Magnolia Parks by Jessica Hastings, readThe Favourites by Layne Fargo

    If you have read Wuthering Heights and Magnolia Parks, you might be confused as to why I am recommending one book for the both of those. The Favourites is loosely based on Wuthering Heights in a modern day setting of competitive ice skating. If you like Wuthering Heights and also enjoy reading romantic fiction, I think you will enjoy the hints to Brontë’s classic, but Fargo didn’t write a novel set in 19th century Britain. The real inspiration is the passionate but toxic love between the two protagonists, which brings me to Magnolia Parks. Hastings’ series of the London socialites is filled with dramatic relationships, gossip and toxicity, which also features in Fargo’s novel about competition, drama and fire. 

    If you like Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid, read Mary Jane by Jessica Anya Blau

    This comparison is more about the atmosphere and setting than about the actual plot. Both of these novels take place in 1970s America, and popular culture of that period is prevalent in both of them. It was the time of love, drugs, rock ’n roll and discovering a new sense of freedom. Daisy Jones & the Six is about the rise and fall of a music group and Mary Jane is about a young girl from a ‘proper’ family, who goes to work for another family to help out with their little girl during the summer. She then discovers there is more than the small world she grew up in and falls in love with the family and their way of life. 

  • 6 Books with the most original plot

    6 Books with the most original plot

    Sometimes we read to have something familiar, to find comfort. When we know what we like, it is easy to look for similar books, because those (probably) won’t let us down. Sometimes, however, we want something new, something unique, something we have never read before. Some formulas are tried and true, but when a unique plot comes along it can peak your interest like no other and draw you in from page one. If you are looking for a book exactly like that, this post is for you as I will share six books I have read with an original plot.

    1 (and 2) Swept Away and the No-Show by Beth O’Leary

    O’Leary truly is the queen of original plots, no one does them like her. It was difficult to choose only one of her books, so I chose two.

    Swept Away is O’Leary’s latest release and I enjoyed it as much as her other books. When Lexi and Zeke meet at the pub, chemistry draws them to each other, and a passionate kiss leads to a night spent together of a home boat. Though Zeke was looking for true love and Lexi’s only interest was a no-strings-attached situation, they quickly find their difference in expectations the last of their problems. Going to the deck the next morning shows they are surrounded by water, more water, and then even more water. Lost at sea with a boat that is not equipped to sail and low on supplies, Zeke and Lexi will have to find a way to survive; both their adventure and developing feelings for each other…

    The No-Show is a story of three women with a date on Valentine’s Day. Siobhan is waiting for her breakfast date with Joseph, Miranda is at the restaurant for a lunch date with Carter, and Jane is at her co-worker’s engagement party, waiting for her fake date of the evening: Joseph Carter. One Valentine’s Day, three women, and no Joseph Carter to be found. O’Leary not only creates a unique concept with The No-Show, but her execution is equally captivating. This story is not what it seems, and the characters will take you along on a journey of waiting, heartbreak, and love.

    Another honourable mention is The Flat Share, O’Leary’s debut novel with an equally interesting premise. To learn more about this book, read my post about romancebooks without a third act breakup.

    3 How to Kill Men and Get Away With It by Katy Brent

    The title of Brent’s debut speaks volumes, and the book delivers on it. When Kitty Collins notices a man following her after a night out, what starts out as defending herself ends in a murder. No one is around, and it was surprisingly easy. When the body is discovered, days pass and Kitty finds herself completely off police’s radar. Could it really be that easy? Does that mean she should do it again?

    Brent writes a compelling story about a strong female character taking matters into her own hands. It is dark, twisted, hilarious and extremely entertaining.

    4 Anxious People by Frederik Backman

    Have you ever gone to an apartment viewing when suddenly a completely incompetent bank robber runs in and politely takes you hostage? Or, have you ever robbed a bank and have things escalate to you running into an apartment building to hide from the police, where you accidentally take a group of people viewing that apartment hostage? Probably not. But, if you want to read about this exact situation, you should pick up Anxious People. If you know Frederik Backman, you will know that he is not a thriller author, so this novel is a portrayal of different characters, their situations and how they all end up in their current situation. While the strangers in the apartment are anxiously huddled together, the story unfolds into a beautiful study of people in different stages of life who come together in this difficult situation and find their way of it. It is full of twists, turns, revelations and heartwarming people.

    This is my personal favourite Backman novel (out of the ones I have read), and I truly think it is one of those books almost everyone can enjoy.

    5 The Retirement Plan by Sue Hincebergs

    Three wives have had enough of their terrible husbands and their terrible marriages. When an investment went wrong a few years ago, Hank, Larry, Andres and Dave have cleared their savings and have nothing to show for it. After a tragic event, the women find out their husbands have taken out high life insurance policies. This discovery on top of the sufferings of their marriages has the women come up with a retirement plan of their own. One that will make them rich, husbandless and set for the future. One that involves… murder. What they don’t realise, is that their husbands have a plan of their own. When both situations start to collide, the future doesn’t look so rosy anymore.

    This lighthearted book with twists and turns is filled with humour, tension, and characters who don’t have the faintest idea about what they are doing.

    6 The Wedding People by Alison Espinach

    One hotel, one wedding, and one person who is at the wrong place at the wrong time. Or maybe she is exactly where she is supposed to be? When Phoebe Stone arrives at the hotel, she finds herself the occupant of the only room that is not rented out for a big wedding. Undisturbed, she plans to go ahead with her scheduled weekend, but that is without taking the bride into account. Lila has been planning her wedding for months and is not about to let a divorced, depressed stranger ruin it with her dark plans. One elevator conversation introduces the two women to each other, and will derail all of their best-laid plans.

    This novel is filled with friendship, love, tough decisions and finding our way in life.

  • 4 Inspiring Memoirs

    4 Inspiring Memoirs

    Memoir as a genre of books is one I have come to enjoy and appreciate over the last year. During my commute to work, I wanted to listen to audiobooks and though I prefer reading fiction, when listening to a book I actually prefer non-fiction. Consequently, I have discovered a number of memoirs that I really enjoyed. In this article, I will list my four favourites.

    1 The Third Gilmore Girl by Kelly Bisschop

    While the title is a little misleading, (I went into this thinking it would mostly be about her time on Gilmore Girls), I was pleasantly surprised. Bisschop talks about her entire career in the showbusiness and her personal life, as the two have always been closely intertwined. When listening to a memoir, it is always so much better when it is narrated by the author themselves, and Kelly Bisschop did a wonderful job doing so. I have only one word to describe both the book and Kelly Bisschop herself: Fabulous.

    2 Dinner for Vampires by Bethany Joy Lenz

    The subtitle is a clear indication of what her memoir is about: Life on a Cult TV Show (While Also in an Actual Cult!). The most important takeaway for me is that you can never truly judge a situation as an outsider if you have never been through it yourself. People, myself included, often think people who join a cult are really naive to be manipulated as such and fall into the trap. Reading from the perspective of a person who went through it, shows exactly how it can happen, and that it is never as black and white as it seems. Lenz opens up and places herself in a vulnerable position, both in the book itself and by writing it. Not only does she share how she got into a cult, but also how she got out, which shows her strength.

    3 The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

    Everyone knows Britney Spears as a true pop icon of the 2000s and her life was led in the spotlight. Articles and photographs show a woman going crazy after the pressure of fame got too much, but in The Woman in Me, Spears finally gets to tell her own story. It is a heartbreaking one, and while I hope the media and paparazzi have changed since then, it is still important for these stories to come out. Not only so Spears can move forward, change the narrative about herself and her family and regain control over her life, but also to make a difference for the next generations.

    4 I’m Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

    With this title, McCurdy instantly drew the attention of thousands of people, and it sets the scene for how extreme the relationship with her mother was. This book is about more than that relationship, but also about growing up as a child actress on famous Nickelodeon shows and the struggles she endured because of her controlling mother and problematic director. Despite what the title might imply, McCurdy manages to convey her story in a respectful way, displaying a level of maturity and strength that I really admire. Similar to The Woman in Me, this book is important for exposing the toxic circumstances many actors and singers had/have to work in, and ensuring improvement.