There are some books that require you to slowly immerse yourself, spread over extended periods of time, with many cups of coffee accompanying your literary journey. These are not those books. These are books you can devour and read in one, single sitting—eyes glued to the pages paired with the desire to know everything, all at once. These are books you can binge. Have you found yourself veering off the road of daily reading habits? These books will have you cannonball back into your bookshelf.
Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This book, written in the style of band member interviews, is addictive. It is a fictional retelling of the rise and fall of Fleetwood Mac. The format makes it unique and innovative and unlike anything you've read before. It shows what it is like to chase the feeling to be understood. To have someone know everything about us. To see us, for exactly who we are. To its core, this book is about how vulnerability and honesty evoke the feeling of falling in love. If you like Fleetwood Mac, music profile writing and an unforgettable story line, this book is for you.
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
If you find yourself chasing joy and an escape from everyday life, this is the book for you. It follows Alex and Henry, the female president's son and the royal prince of England, on their journey of falling in love. Every single second I spent reading this novel, I had a smile on my face. It is full of exquisite and strategically placed pop culture references and it is incredibly steamy. It will make you laugh out loud and you will want to place it in the hands of all of your friends.
Untamed by Glennon Doyle
Imagine the coziest, softest sweater in the world. It embraces you, makes you the warmest you've ever felt in your entire life without smothering you, and is made of the silkiest thread to ever exist. That sweater is this book. It is a tater tot hot dish of words and love and tenderness. This book is a beautiful reminder that you are powerful and worthy. With its short and choppy chapters, you will find yourself unable to put it down.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Nobody does dialogue like Sally Rooney. While her books follow ordinary people, often anxious and flawed, Sally Rooney always delivers characters that draw you in. This book follows Cornell and Marianne, two lovers who just can't seem to stay away from each other. They will frustrate you, make your heart beat too fast and more than likely make you throw your book across the room. But it will be worth every page turn.
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
This novel explores the psychological dynamics of a relationship between a teenage girl named Vanessa and her high school teacher, Mr. Strane. It time jumps between 2000 and 2017—the time of the inappropriate start of the affair and 17 years later when another student claims Mr. Strane has abused her. It is hauntingly beautiful and seamlessly blends the time periods together. You will be on the edge of your seat and find yourself reflecting on the culture that allows these relationships to go unscathed for decades.