Top 15 Reese’s Book Club Picks, According to a Book Reviewer and Nerd

Even after nearly a decade of reviewing books, I often find myself unsure of what to read next. With so many great books out there, it’s a challenge to choose. When I’m looking for inspiration, one of my go-to sources is Reese’s Book Club. Each month, Reese Witherspoon and her team pick a book featuring a woman at the center of the story. I’ve narrowed down my top 15 picks from the almost 100 titles they’ve spotlighted. Here are some that stand out:

Sally is a writer at a sketch comedy show similar to “Saturday Night Live.” She is crafting a sketch about a colleague who is engaged to a beautiful actress, arguing that a gorgeous woman would never fall for an average-looking guy. Then, Noah, a charming and popular musician hosting the show, takes an interest in Sally, challenging her assumptions. This modern rom-com is perfect for fans of Nora Ephron and “30 Rock.” It’s witty, smart, and thoroughly charming.

Set in a dystopian future, Celeste Ng’s novel “Our Missing Hearts” follows 12-year-old Bird, whose mother, a Chinese American poet, vanished three years earlier. When Bird receives a letter from her, he embarks on a perilous journey to New York City. There, he discovers an underground network of librarians rescuing banned books. This novel is a departure from Ng’s previous works but showcases her storytelling skills through Bird’s innocent perspective.

Reese’s first book club pick, “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,” tells the story of Eleanor, a quirky, nearly 30-year-old woman living in Glasgow. She’s socially awkward and has a traumatic past. Her life begins to change when she meets Raymond, a kind colleague who becomes her first true friend. The novel is both heartwarming and heartbreaking as Eleanor navigates her way out of loneliness.

“Such a Fun Age” by Kiley Reid examines race, privilege, and identity through the story of Emira, a young Black woman who babysits for Alix, a white woman. When Emira is racially profiled while watching Alix’s child at a supermarket, both women are forced to confront their beliefs and relationships.

“Sankofa” by Chibundu Onuzo follows Anna, a mixed-race British woman discovering her African father’s past. After her mother’s death, Anna uncovers her father’s radical history and travels to Africa to understand her roots. The novel explores themes of identity, racism, and colonialism, offering a profound look at self-discovery.

In “The Last Thing He Told Me,” Hannah’s husband, Owen, disappears, leaving her with a cryptic note saying “Protect her.” As the FBI investigates Owen’s company for fraud, Hannah and her stepdaughter Bailey form a reluctant bond while searching for the truth. The novel delves into complex family dynamics and the lengths we go to protect those we love.

“Yellowface” by R.F. Kuang is a gripping critique of the publishing industry and cultural appropriation. June Hayward, a struggling author, steals a manuscript from her deceased, more successful friend Athena Liu. As June’s fame grows, she struggles with guilt and the fear of being exposed. Kuang explores the ethics of storytelling and the consequences of deception.

“Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows” by Balli Kaur Jaswal is about Nikki, who starts a writing class for Punjabi widows, which quickly turns into an unexpected erotic storytelling workshop. The novel is a delightful mix of humor and heart, celebrating women’s voices across generations.

Tia Williams’ “Seven Days in June” centers on Eva, a single mom and erotica writer, and Shane, a reclusive novelist. When they reconnect after 15 years, sparks fly, but both must confront their past to see if they have a future together. This romance is full of passion and second chances.

“The Proposal” by Jasmine Guillory begins with a public proposal gone wrong at a Dodgers game. When Nik declines her boyfriend’s offer, she’s rescued by Carlos, a charming doctor. Their rebound romance turns complicated, testing their boundaries and understanding of relationships.

In “The Guest List” by Lucy Foley, a wedding on a remote Irish island turns deadly. As guests celebrate a high-profile marriage, hidden tensions and secrets lead to a tragic end. The atmospheric thriller keeps readers guessing until the final page.

Maggie O’Farrell’s “The Marriage Portrait” transports readers to 1550s Florence, where Lucrezia, the duke’s daughter, is thrust into a dangerous marriage. The novel tells the story of her resilience and fight for survival in a volatile political landscape.

“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett, set during the pandemic, follows Lara and her daughters as they reconnect on their family’s orchard. Lara’s stories of her past inspire her daughters to reflect on their own lives. The novel explores themes of love, family, and aging with Patchett’s signature subtle elegance.

Glennon Doyle’s “Untamed” is a motivational memoir that encourages readers to live their fullest, truest lives. Doyle shares her journey through divorce, new love, and self-discovery, offering wisdom and inspiration for personal growth.

In “Counterfeit” by Kirstin Chen, Ava, a Chinese American lawyer, gets drawn into her former roommate Winnie’s luxury handbag scheme. When their success is threatened, Ava must face the fallout. The novel is a thrilling exploration of ambition and identity.

These carefully selected books from Reese’s Book Club offer a diverse range of stories, each with compelling characters and thought-provoking themes. Whether you’re looking for a romance, thriller, or an emotional journey, there’s something here for every reader.

Source: Reese’s Book Club