Martin Marten contains one of the most unique ideas for a novel that I’ve ever encountered. And Brian Doyle writes it with wit and charm and empathy. I think I have my friend Ellen to thank for this recommendation and I am very appreciative.  I absolutely loved every page of the book and will remember it forever.

Small Things Like These weighs in at 114 pages with a small trim size and not many words per page.  But it strikes with a force unmatched by any book I have read in a very long time.  Recognized by the New York Times as one of the top 100 books of the 21st century, Keegan has written a true tour de force.

As much as I follow lists and Bookstagram and listen to friends’ recommendations, I also love just picking up a random book that catches my eye in a display at my library. I found River Mumma amongst a shelf of books all set in Toronto. Both the cover and title drew me in, and the description tipped the book right into my bag. My instincts proved correct and I was rewarded with a charming and suspenseful story featuring a unique view of my city.

Although Buckeye was on many ‘favorites’ lists at the end of 2025, I feel like it is still somewhat flying under the radar. Many friends to whom I have mentioned it as a favorite in recent months have never heard of it. So let me be (perhaps) the first to tell you that this book is a sweeping, modern classic and not to be missed.

n the handful of books that seem to be everywhere at the moment, Belle Burden’s Strangers surely ranks in the top five.  As often seems to happen, when I picked it up and started to read, the book was being discussed everywhere. In Strangers, Burden tells the stunning story of her 20-year marriage and how one morning early in the COVID-19 pandemic, her husband walked out and left her and their children forever.

If you are looking for a fast-paced, suspenseful, witty book for your first beach read of the summer, look no further. This Story Might Save Your Life engaged, delighted and surprised me while also making me laugh out loud. Crum provides many plot twists but I  always felt certain she was headed for a satisfying ending when all was revealed.