Bad Blood: Secrets and Lies Inside a Silicon Valley Startup by John Carreyrou
Becoming by Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama’s memoir, Becoming, exceeded expectations in its ability to delve deep into her life and share a previously unseen side of herself. As one of the most visible public figures for over a decade, she has masterfully woven together an unforgettable narrative that not only showcases her remarkable journey but also invites readers into the innermost recesses of her heart and soul.
Black Leopard, Red Wolf by Marlon James
Marlon James plunges readers into a dark fantasy realm inspired by African myths and legends, weaving a tale of unrelenting complexity. In “Black Leopard, Red Wolf”, the first installment in the planned Dark Star Trilogy, we step inside the mind of Tracker, an enigmatic hunter consumed by a mission to retrieve a boy who has vanished for years. As Tracker delves deeper into his quest, doubts begin to creep in – not only about the mission’s validity but also the very fabric of his reality.
James’ distinctive writing style, dense yet luxuriant, sets this gritty fantasy apart, drawing readers in with an unputdownable narrative that will undoubtedly earn its place on your reading list.
The Farm by Joanne Ramos
This gripping dystopian novel has a hauntingly relatable quality, making it all too easy to imagine a world where such events could unfold in our own backyard. The setting, an ultra-exclusive resort in upstate New York, belies its sinister undertones: the wealthy and infertile are desperate for solutions, and enter into contracts with women who become ‘Hosts’ to their babies.
Among them is Jane, a determined immigrant from the Philippines driven by financial necessity and the promise of a life-altering payday. As she navigates The Farm’s labyrinthine power structures, her initial enthusiasm slowly gives way to unease – but can her growing resolve overcome the dark forces arrayed against her? This thought-provoking novel masterfully sparks debate about medical ethics, daring readers to confront uncomfortable truths and challenge their assumptions.
The Friend by Sigrid Nunez
In a powerful commentary on our #MeToo era, The Friend by a National Book Award-winning author presents a poignant exploration of grief, friendship, and the challenges faced by women in the literary world. The story revolves around an unnamed female writer who has recently lost her close friend, a prominent white male author struggling with his declining relevance.
What follows is a profound request from the deceased – that his friend adopt his massive Great Dane, which sets off a chain of events as she navigates her feelings and eventually forms a deep bond with the dog. Through this narrative, the author masterfully weaves together themes of loss, companionship, and shared experiences, culminating in an emotional conclusion that is sure to leave readers moved.
Good Talk by Mira Jacob
Mira Jacob’s graphic memoir chronicles her ongoing dialogue with her young son, delving into the complexities of the world we inhabit. The narrative explores the challenges of responding to the child’s inquiries about identity, race, power, gender, and politics, where adults often struggle to find sufficient answers for themselves.
With a focus on ‘good talks’ that balance comfort and education, Jacob ponders how parents can guide their children towards a better understanding of these pressing issues, ultimately shaping the minds of the future leaders who will shape our world’s trajectory.
The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang
Helen Hoang’s The Kiss Quotient is a must-read romance that has captured the hearts of many readers. This Goodreads Choice winner for Best Romance tells the story of Stella, a charming and vulnerable protagonist in her early 30s who struggles to navigate the complexities of dating due to her Asperger’s syndrome. In a bid to overcome her challenges, Stella hires Michael Phan, a male escort, to teach her the art of passion.
But as they fall deeply in love, their relationship becomes increasingly complicated. Hoang’s novel has been praised for its relatable portrayal of Stella’s spirit and vulnerability, making it a truly unforgettable romance that will leave readers swooning.
Lost Children Archive by Valeria Luiselli
Valeria Luiselli’s novel, Lost Children Archive, masterfully weaves together the story of an American family embarking on a road trip through the Sun Belt, as they become unwittingly entwined with the urgent and timely issues surrounding undocumented children who have been thrust into the heart of the ongoing immigration debate.
With unflinching poignancy, Luiselli’s narrative sheds light on the often-overlooked plights of these young individuals who find themselves caught in the crossfire of political rhetoric, their futures hanging precariously in the balance. The result is a thought-provoking and searing exploration of the extraordinary resilience demonstrated by children in the face of adversity.
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone by Lori Gottlieb
In Lori Gottlieb’s memoir, Maybe You Should Talk to Someone, readers are given a candid and often humorous glimpse into the therapist’s world. With unflinching honesty, Gottlieb shares her own experiences guiding patients through emotional struggles, revealing the toll it takes to help others heal from deep-seated pain.
This bittersweet and relatable read is not just for those familiar with therapy; its universal themes of human suffering and resilience make it an engaging and thought-provoking story for anyone.
Miracle Creek by Angie Kim
In Angie Kim’s gripping debut legal thriller, Miracle Creek, a devastating tragedy sets the tone from the very beginning. An autistic young boy and a woman lose their lives in a catastrophic explosion within an experimental pressurized oxygen chamber known as the ‘Miracle Submarine’. This innovative therapeutic treatment, spearheaded by Korean immigrant couple Pak and Young Yoo, was intended to provide healing for children with special needs and those seeking solace.
Fast-forward several months, and the mother of the boy who perished in this gruesome event is now standing trial for murder. Yet, as the courtroom drama unfolds, it becomes clear that there are still many secrets waiting to be unearthed, making for a thrilling ride that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.
The Other Americans by Laila Lalami
Pulitzer Prize finalist Laila Lalami’s latest literary mystery revolves around a pivotal event: a Moroccan immigrant is tragically killed in a hit-and-run incident. This senseless act sets off a chain reaction of emotions among the community where the victim resided, sparking a crisis that challenges their seemingly progressive values.
Through an innovative narrative structure featuring alternating perspectives, Lalami masterfully crafts an immersive and emotionally charged landscape that delves into the intricate web of beliefs surrounding race, identity, and hatred in America, shedding light on the complexities and nuances that often go unseen.
The Overstory by Richard Powers
Richard Powers’ sweeping novel, The Overstory, has recently earned the prestigious Pulitzer Prize, a testament to its monumental storytelling prowess. This magnum opus masterfully interweaves multiple perspectives across time, incorporating the unique narratives of trees as characters, to craft an environmentalist narrative that delves into humanity’s intricate relationships with nature.
A true masterpiece, The Overstory is a tome that rewards slow and deliberate consumption, its linguistic richness and profound thematic depth making it a singular reading experience.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
In Samantha Shannon’s sweeping epic fantasy, The Priory of the Orange Tree, readers embark on an immersive journey through a meticulously crafted world where a matriarchal society teeters on the brink of change. With over 800 pages of intricate storytelling, this feminist-forward tale weaves together a diverse cast of fierce characters – from those in the royal court to mighty dragon riders – offering a panoramic view of the complex political struggle unfolding around them.
Normal People by Sally Rooney
Sally Rooney’s literary prowess as a voice for her Millennial generation has been widely acclaimed. In Normal People, her highly anticipated follow-up to the critically acclaimed Conversations with Friends, Rooney solidifies her reputation as a masterful storyteller. The novel delves into the complex and tumultuous relationship between two individuals who repeatedly find themselves drawn back to each other, their connection oscillating between passion and detachment.
Through this poignant portrayal of young adulthood, Rooney astutely captures the essence of navigating one’s identity and grappling with the age-old question of which individuals we choose to let in on our emotional journeys.
Queenie by Candace Carty-Williams
Queenie, the lovable protagonist of Carty-Williams’ novel, has won over readers with her endearing imperfections. As she navigates life as a Jamaican British Millennial living in London, we’re transported into Queenie’s world and witness her struggles to balance two distinct cultural identities.
This captivating portrayal of quarter-life crises – complete with its triumphs, tribulations, and cringe-worthy moments – is an authentic reflection of the ups and downs of being young and finding one’s place.
The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
Alex Michaelides’s suspenseful debut, a gripping thriller that weaves together a complex web of twists and turns, culminates in a jaw-dropping finale. The story follows a mute woman, discovered at the scene of her husband’s murder, as she navigates the complexities of prison life under the watchful eye of a forensic psychologist obsessed with helping her uncover the truth.
This page-turner will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end, guessing and wondering what secrets lie hidden beneath the surface.
There There by Tommy Orange
Tommy Orange’s ‘There There’ is a literary masterpiece that has garnered widespread acclaim, including being named one of the New York Times Book Review’s five best fiction books of 2018. This powerful novel weaves together interlocking stories that explore the complexities of American identity, particularly in relation to Native and Indigenous communities.
At its core, ‘There There’ is a celebration of resilience, but it also unflinchingly confronts the dark aspects of America’s complicated history with these very same groups. The novel’s setting, the Big Oakland Powwow, serves as a poignant backdrop for Orange’s searing portrayal of the Native community and their struggles.
Trust Exercise by Susan Choi
Susan Choi’s Trust Exercise is a thrilling ride that will keep you on your toes. The novel begins by introducing a group of elite art high school students studying theatre under an unconventional director. As the story unfolds, it follows the romantic development between two teenagers, but be warned: later in the book, everything changes. The twist will challenge your initial assumptions and leave you eager to discuss with friends.
If you can resist spoilers, this is a must-read that’s perfect for sharing with others. To stay in the know about the latest bestsellers, tune into Book Riot podcasts like ‘All the Books’ or sign up for our newsletters for a steady stream of book recommendations. For personalized book suggestions, take advantage of our Tailored Book Recommendations service.