Audry Fryer's Blog, page 3

Take Time for Yourself to Read (Especially Busy Moms!)

Hi, my bookish friend! Here’s your reminder to carve out some time to do something nice for yourself, whether that’s reading for enjoyment, going for a walk, or any other activity that brings you joy. Use me as your excuse if you want: “Audry from Bookish AF said I have to!”

For moms especially, the struggle is real to carve out a few moments in a day to read (or any other form of relaxation for that matter!). When my three children were babies and toddlers, I used to look forward to sneaking a little peace and quiet reading while they were napping or off to preschool.

Now that they’re grown and don’t need me as much, you’d think I’d have more time. But it’s still a struggle on most days to allow myself time to read a few chapters. There’s always something else to do or somewhere I need to be. Reading can feel like an indulgence. But it really shouldn’t!

That’s why with Mother’s Day right around the corner (ahem, just a heads up: it’s this Sunday, May 11th), today’s post for the moms … may we know them, may we be them, may we simply love them!

Let’s celebrate moms who read! Today, I’ve put together:

5 Last-minute Mother’s Day bookish-themed gift ideas

A book list tailored to different types of moms

This sneaky time hack for busy people (moms!) to fit in reading

Here’s to you for taking a moment for yourself to enjoy this newsletter!

Happy Reading!

Your friend,

Audry

P.S. I’m so happy you’re here! Thank you for being a part of this fantastic bookish community. If you know someone who loves books, too, share today’s post with them. Send it as a kind reminder to take some time for themselves to read a book, plus whatever else brings them joy!

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Designed on Canva by Audry Fryer Stamp Your Library with Love

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This content may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission (just enough to grab a coffee) at no additional cost to you!

Bookish Buys: 5 Last-Minute Thoughtful Gifts for Moms

In addition to the beautiful personalized library book stamp, here are a few more bookish ideas for the mom in your life (or a special treat for yourself) that you can get by the weekend if you have Amazon Prime.

All-in-One Book Lovers Gift Box

If you’re short on time, this gift has it all! It comes in a pretty gift box, includes a card, and adorable bookish-themed gifts. There are socks, a bookmark, a thumb page holder, a tote bag, a book sleeve, and a 16-oz glass cup.

“Smells like Reading Time” Candle

Help yourself or a mom you love set the mood while reading with this candle “infused with the fresh aroma of shutting up and letting me read.” It has 35 peaceful, page-turning hours of burn time.

Cute Bookish Canvas Tote

Moms are always carrying everyone’s stuff. So, why not get her an adorable tote? With the saying “there is no such thing as too many books,” it’s the perfect companion for a shopping day at her favorite bookshop.

Novel Teas Book Lover's Tea

Don’t just gift your mom boring tea bags. From the keepsake canister that says “Read ‘em and steep!” to the teabag tags featuring literary quotes, this English Breakfast tea is delicious and well-read!

Helpful and Stylish Wooden Book Stand Holder

This gift idea looks great, and it’s helpful, too! The clever triangle design creates a spot to place an open book over the top or to rest a tablet. It also includes a dedicated space to keep all the essentials your book-loving mama needs within reach.

For more bookish gift ideas, I just updated “Mother’s Day Gifts for Book Lovers” in the Bookish Archives!

Bookish Recs for 9 Different Types of Moms Designed on Canva by Audry Fryer | Book covers from Bookshop.org

Bookish moms may all be readers, but that doesn’t mean they all read the same things! So, here are a few book recommendations based on what makes her special.

For the Mom Who Loves Fiction: The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner

It’s also for the mom who has visiting the Amalfi Coast on her bucket list, enjoys a story with elements of magic, a mysterious plot, and treasure-hunting characters, and appreciates beautiful cover art.

For the Mom Who Likes Audiobooks: The Dutch House by Ann Patchett, narrated by Tom Hanks

Enjoy the familiar, warming voice of Tom Hanks as he narrates this fairy-tale-like story of siblings Danny and Maeve, their connection to their family home, the Dutch House, a regal estate in the Philadelphia suburbs, and their family drama, thanks to who else but an evil stepmother.

For the Mom Who Likes to Cook: Seriously, So Good: Simple Recipes for a Balanced Life by Carissa Stanton

Instagram star turned cookbook author, Carissa Stanton, is on a mission to take away the anxiety around cooking and eating healthy by sharing recipes that are easy enough for a weeknight and “seriously, so good,” too!

For the Mom Who’s Also a Teacher: Show, Don't Tell: A Writer, Her Teacher, and the Power of Sharing Our Stories by Kristine Gasbarre

In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, which is this week, May 5–9th, here’s a heartwarming memoir about a writer who seeks wisdom from her extraordinary former teacher, who has influenced her life for the better and has since been a dear friend for over thirty years.

For the Mom Who Loves Historical Stories: Strangers in Time: A World War II Novel by David Baldacci

Two teenagers whose families have both been ravaged by the war find their lonely way to a London bookshop and befriend the owner. The story follows the bond that grows between these characters, each of their perilous situations, and the war that continues to rage around them.

For the Mom That Does It All: Happy to Help: Adventures of a People Pleaser by Amy Wilson

Humorous, though-provoking, and insightful, this book chronicles through a collection of essays the reasons for and the pitfalls of saying yes to helping everyone over your own best interests.

For the Mom Who Enjoys Gardening: Vegetables Love Flowers: Companion Planting for Beauty and Bounty by Lisa Mason Ziegler

Did you know that planting flowers and vegetables together creates a more bountiful, healthier garden? I didn’t! This beautiful book includes vivid photos and easy-to-follow steps for growing a gorgeous garden.

For the Mom Who Keeps a Journal: The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life by Suleika Jaouad

Journaling gets a major glow-up! The author provides tips and tools while enlisting the help of the most accomplished thinkers, artists, and creatives of our time.

For the Mom Who Loves Advice: We Can Do Hard Things: Answers to Life's 20 Questions by Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle

Just released on May 6th, this book asks life’s biggest questions and gets answers from well-known personalities and celebrities who share their wisdom on each topic.

For more book recs perfect for Mother’s Day, see my booklist of Best Books about Mother-Daughter Relationships in the Bookish Blog Archives.

Bookish Sneaky Time Hack for Busy People (Especially Moms!)

I could fill this space with well over a dozen hacks that absolutely work for reading more books. But today’s tip is for busy people (cough, moms). So, here’s a quick tip:

Sneak in reading a few pages or a quick chapter whenever you have a pocket of time.

Rather than hop on social media when you’re waiting at an appointment, in the grocery pickup, or for your kid’s sports practice to end, use that time to read.

Plan ahead and have your book with you, either in your bag, on your e-reader, or an app on your phone.

Audiobooks (like how I shared in this post) open up more pockets of time because you can listen as you commute, fold laundry, or go for a walk.

You’ll be amazed at how these seemingly trivial moments can add up! Experiment with it for a week and see how much more you read.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“(24/7) once you sign on to be a mother, that’s the only shift they offer.” —Jodi Picoult, "My Sister's Keeper"

Thank you once again for all your love and support of this newsletter! It means the world to me. ♥️ Bookish AF is reader-supported and always FREE.

😊 Please consider supporting the newsletter today with a paid subscription. (Psst! You’ll get a surprise!🎁)

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The April E.D.I.T.

Hi, my bookish friend! As a “wordy” person, I can’t resist a good acronym. So, when I saw other writers sharing their monthly roundups of their favorite things and calling it an “Edit,” I decided why not turn it into a fun acronym for this week’s post!?

So, as you may have noticed from the subtitle, E.D.I.T. stands for everything I’ve found entertaining, delightful, interesting, and trendy … that’s also bookish. So, you’ll discover:

E - Two entertaining book adaptations on Netflix

D - My delightful new habit of spending my reading time outside among the blossoms and blooms

I - Five interesting book recommendations, including from friends and family

T - A trendy way to show off your personality on your e-reader

Bookish AF is also celebrating its first full month of weekly posts on Substack. Thank you to all of you who willingly followed me here, and a warm welcome to new readers!

Each and every newsletter/post has brought me so much enjoyment. I fit Bookish AF in between writing for my ghostwriting clients. And it’s been the highlight of my week to share all this bookish fun with you!

I hope you’re enjoying it, too! Drop a line and let me know what you’re enjoying or prefer to see improved. I’ll double down on what’s working and switch up what’s not to help make Bookish Af the best it can be for YOU!

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Happy Reading!

Your friend, Audry

Designed on Canva by Audry FryerEntertaining

In a post earlier this month, I shared “Bookish Entertainment News” about a book adaptation, The Life List on Netflix, which is based on the international bestselling novel with the same name.

Well, I ended up watching it and loving it!

The premise is a bit sad. Alex Rose, who’s still quite young, is dealing with her mother’s untimely death by fulfilling her mother’s dying wish to check off every desire on her teenage bucket list. The movie was so sweet and heartwarming, with a satisfying ending. I enjoyed it so much that I want to read the novel even though I know what happens!

Also, the fifth and final season of You just released on Netflix. The popular series is based on the page-turning bestseller You: A Novel by Caroline Kepnes. This stalker-style thriller chronicles how a chance meeting turns into the “perfect” relationship with a sinister twist.

Delightful Photos by Audry Fryer

What’s more delightful than a glorious spring day with comfy temps, flowers blooming, and a book!? I just bought two more Adirondack chairs like the one pictured because they’re so perfect for sitting back and relaxing. The new ones I bought have a cup holder and another one for a stemmed wine glass.

My outdoor reading space is pretty simple. I have a small patio with a fire pit and a side table that overlooks my flower garden on one side and a pair of miniature apple trees behind it. The photo above shows several of my flowers in bloom around my yard (including my pug, Waffles, photobombing in the tulips!) and the beautiful blossoms on my Gala apple tree.

If you’re thinking about creating an outdoor reading area, check out this post, How to Create a Relaxing Outdoor Reading Nook, from the Bookish AF archives.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“Your heart is a seed. Go, plant it in the world.” – The Dance of the Dissident Daughter, Sue Monk Kidd.

Interesting Designed on Canva by Audry Fryer | Book covers from Bookshop.org

Bookish Breaking News: Lighting up the bookish headlines yesterday was the release of an “interesting” new memoir, Uptown Girl by Christie Brinkley. As far as celebrity memoirs go, this one should keep you turning pages. This “tell-all” details Brinkley’s rocky marriage to Billy Joel, her traumatic relationship with her father, and how her modeling career began when she was pursuing a career as an artist while living in Paris.

Bookish Recs: from Bookish Friends!

What’s more interesting than finding out what everyone is currently reading? So, I’ll go first: I just finished The God of the Woods by Liz Moore (It took me a while because it’s long and I’m a slow reader, easily distracted, and probably have ADHD, but that’s another topic for a future post). Despite taking my time with it, I enjoyed this well-written mystery and would definitely recommend it. (See my review on Goodreads.)

My friend Julia recently read Shark Heart: A Love Story by Emily Habeck and rated it five stars on Goodreads. The premise of the book definitely qualifies as “interesting.” It’s the story of newlyweds who must confront the diagnosis that the husband, within one year, will … wait for it … transform into a great white shark. Yes, you read that correctly. And here’s the other interesting part: it very well may become one of the most captivating books you’ve ever read.

My mom took my recommendation from my first newsletter here on Substack and read Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall. She confirmed what everyone has been saying about this book: it’s amazing, a page-turner, and a must-read! Add it to my “Currently Reading” list on Goodreads!

My sister-in-law, Missy, asked me over the Easter holiday if I had read *The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid? I told her I hadn’t. It was one of those books I wanted to read but missed. I even featured it on my Bookshop.org list of Best Books with Strong Female Characters! Missy says she really enjoyed it and has the print book for me, so I’ll finally get a chance to read it.

Bookish Thoughts: Books You Wanted to Read, But Missed

Have you ever had a book on your “want to read” list that you couldn’t believe you never got around to reading?

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If you’re wondering what books you might have missed, last fall, Goodreads compiled a list: From No. 1 to No. 60, Readers' Top Books Published in the Past Five Years. It’s perfect for celebrating the books you read that made the list and for finding ones you wanted to read but may have forgotten about.

(*Side note: If you’ve already read and liked Seven Husbands, I’m hearing that Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry has a similar premise and vibe.)

Trending

Earlier this month, I shared a post on how your reading habit can make you happier, but I didn’t have space to add this happy-inducing trend. So, this week’s April E.D.I.T. is the perfect chance to finally share it with you!

Decking Out Your e-Reader

A personalized, attractive case for your e-reader is a great way to add a little fun and happiness to your reading routine. If you love how your e-reader looks, you’re more likely to pick it up or pack it with you, which leads to keeping up with your reading habit, which means you’ll gain all those joy-inducing benefits I talked about!

Here are a few options to elevate the feel-good vibe of your e-reader case:

This stand case comes in a ton of designs. Plus, it has a built-in handstrap and kickstand for extra convenience.

Buy a clear case and then go crazy adding stickers (like these) that match your reader vibe!

Page the Shop, a woman-founded Kindle accessory brand, is worth checking out for colorful, well-made cases as another option to buying from Amazon.

This content may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission (just enough to grab a coffee) at no additional cost to you!

Do you have a new book, a bookish product or business, like designing e-reader cases, or a book-related service? Bookish AF accepts promotions from authors, other newsletters on books or reading, or companies that sell bookish items or services that people who enjoy reading books would love! See The Bookish Shop to learn how I can help you connect with my hundreds of readers. (A perfect match! So exciting!)

Thank you once again for all your love and support of this newsletter! It means the world to me. ♥️ Bookish AF is reader-supported and always FREE.

😊 Please consider supporting the newsletter today with a paid subscription. (Psst! You’ll get a surprise!)

You’re invited to join the fun at Bookish AF! 🤓 Become a free or paid subscriber.

What to Love About Indie Bookshops

Whenever I’m on a trip, I love to stop into the local bookstore and browse the shelves. No two independent bookstores are ever the same, and that’s a big part of the charm! Unlike walking into a bookstore chain and seeing basically the same set-up, with an indie bookstore, you never entirely know what to expect and what delights await you when you open the door. From the selection of books to offerings such as coffee (or champagne!) to other items of interest, such as puzzles and giftables, it’s an experience I often seek out.

So, today, we’re going inside your local, friendly bookshop to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day, happening this Saturday, April 26th. But why celebrate for just one day? Supporting these local treasures is important 365 days of the year! So, I’m sharing:

Why it *really* is so much better to buy from “indie” bookshops.

All the ways (including fun ideas) you can help your local bookshop and independent bookstores everywhere stay in business.

A short list of books with a bookshop theme, just for fun and to inspire your reading.

I’m so glad you’re here and taking a moment for yourself to enjoy today’s post!

Happy Reading (and future indie bookstore shopping)!

Audry

P.S. Do you have a favorite bookshop? Tell us about it in the comments!

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Biblion: used books & rare finds in Lewes, Delaware | Photo by Audry FryerBookish Breaking News

Before we get into today’s topic of Bookshops, here are two quick bookish updates, so you don’t miss out!

Oprah and Reese announced their book club picks for May:

Reese's Book Club Adult Pick, Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry, follows the story of two writers, Alice and Hayden, who are both competing to be chosen to write the biography of a reclusive heiress.

The Oprah Book Club went with another memoir, Matriarch by Tina Knowles, which is timely for May and Mother’s Day since Tina Knowles is the mother of Beyoncé and Solange.

A new Agatha Christie adaptation, Towards Zero, was just released on Britbox, but you can watch it through a free trial on Amazon Prime. However, be warned: it’s so provocative it likely would have caused the literary maven to blush!

Bookish Celebration: Independent Bookstore Day (This Saturday, April 26th)

Held each year on the last Saturday of April, Independent Bookstore Day is a national celebration highlighting the importance of supporting local and independent bookstores. This day provides a fun opportunity to browse the shelves and connect with fellow bookish friends while supporting a small business.

Here are a few fun ways to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day, either in person or online:

Plan a visit to your local indie bookstore. Check their website for special events, author visits, or other festivities. Often, a bookshop’s social media is the best place to find the most up-to-date info. Also, you can visit How Bookstores Are Celebrating Indie Bookstore Day 2025! | IndieBound.org for a list of events in your state.

Make it a date! Go with your favorite person, group of friends, or your book club. It can even be an excellent idea for an actual date. Many bookshops also offer coffee or other food and drink offerings on the premises or nearby, which can help turn your outing into more than a shopping event. While there, support the store by making a purchase, buying a gift card, or perhaps leaving a positive review or posting about your experience on social media.

Partner with Libro.fm. Now through Sunday, April 27th, you can shop the Libro.fm Bookshop Appreciation Sale on audiobooks, plus special offers and more! Libro.fm helps you support independent bookstores by allowing you to purchase audiobooks directly from the store. They’re also hosting a Golden Ticket Giveaway in participating stores. Find the “golden ticket” and win 12 free audiobook credits!

My Bookish Life: Favorite Bookstores 📚 Shakespeare and Company in Paris, France | The Story in Ardmore, PA | Hockessin BookShelf in Delaware (Photos by Audry Fryer)

Aside from being fortunate while accompanying a friend visiting family in Paris to peruse the iconic Shakespeare and Company, where I purchased Agatha Christie’s A Haunting in Venice, the bookstores I often visit are relatively close to my home. Here in PA (Pennsylvania), I’ve enjoyed on several occasions stopping into The Lahaska Bookshop in Peddler’s Village, which has a great selection of books alongside toys and gift items.

When I’m down at the Delaware seashore with my family, we look forward to frequenting the beachy-themed Browseabout Books in Rehoboth, Biblion: used books & rare finds in Lewes, and Bethany Beach Books in Bethany. Recently, we made the wonderful discovery of Turning Pages Book Lounge, which, in addition to books, features vintage toys, games, and records. It’s inland, a few miles from Bethany Beach, and worth tracking down. Grab a coffee from the shop behind it. You can easily spend at least an hour here wandering the shelves!

When I was promoting my book, Until Next Sunday, I was so thankful to the bookshops that offered me time and a space to share my book. I held book signing events at the quaint Hockessin BookShelf in Delaware, and one in Ardmore, PA, where the real-life characters from the book once lived, at The Story Coffee & Bookstore, which had a beautiful old-world European look.

Sadly, I discovered The Story has permanently closed. As I was writing this section, I wasn’t expecting to see that. But it does provide the perfect opportunity to emphasize why I decided on this week’s theme of “bookstores” and the importance of what we as readers can do to support these local treasures.

Bookish Thoughts: Is It *Really* Better to Buy from Independent Bookstores?

In a world of algorithms and far too much screen time, sometimes it’s such a relief to take a break and enjoy a “real life” experience. Walking into a bookshop can give you all the feels! Here’s how:

Enjoy forgetting about time and the outside world as you casually browse the shelves full of unexpected books and items not found at big chains.

Actually talk to a human about what you enjoy reading. Bookshop staff are often quite skilled at guiding you to the perfect book.

Your local bookshop can connect you to your community, as they tend to frequently hold events, book clubs, and chances to meet authors.

More of the money you spend in your community bookshop stays in the local economy compared to buying a book from a major retailer.

This money often recirculates to community causes and helps provide local jobs.

In honor of Earth Day, which was yesterday, April 22nd, shopping locally helps the environment by reducing emissions generated from shipping. And many bookshops sell other gift items created nearby by local artisans.

Bookish Recs: A Booklist with a Bookshop Theme

For this week’s booklist, I’m partnering with Bookshop.org because this online site, like Libro.fm, also directly supports bookstores worldwide through their mission to provide a socially conscious online alternative to buying books on Amazon. When you make a purchase on Bookshop.org, you can either specify a local bookstore to receive the profit or contribute to a collective fund that benefits bookstores globally.

Designed on Canva by Audry Fryer | Book covers from Bookshop.org

The books I selected for this list all have a bookshop theme along with a bit of charm, a little magic, and captivating stories. Here are three of the most notable on this booklist:

The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods is set in Dublin and spins a tale of magical realism. It tells the story of three strangers, Opaline, Martha, and Henry, who go from side characters to main character energy when they become swept up in the magic of a vanishing bookshop.

The Little Bookshop by the Sea by Eliza J Scott is one to add to your summer reading list! Florrie Appleton lives in a delightful seaside town where she works in a charming bookshop. However, a tragedy causes the bookshop to face closure. Now, Florrie must work with the owner’s handsome grandson, Edward, to uncover secrets and save the shop.

The Bookshop Book by Jen Campbell takes you on a journey to fascinating bookshops around the world. It covers the history, the quirky facts, and the unique charm of these establishments. Plus, enjoy quotes from well-known authors about their favorite bookshops.

To discover more “bookshop books,” visit this booklist on Bookshop.org!

This content may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission (just enough to grab a coffee) at no additional cost to you!

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Bookish Quote of the Week

“You see, bookshops are dreams built of wood and paper. They are time travel and escape and knowledge and power. They are, simply put, the best of places.”

― Jen Campbell, The Bookshop Book

Thank you once again for all your love and support of this newsletter! It means the world to me. ♥️ Bookish AF is reader-supported and always FREE.

Please consider supporting the newsletter today with a paid subscription. (Psst! You’ll get a surprise!)

Enjoy Bookish AF every week! 🤓 Become a free or paid subscriber.

Want to Feel Happier? Start a Reading Habit

Are you surprised by this connection between a reading habit and happiness? Maybe not because it’s no secret that reading each day is an enjoyable way to spend your time. But you may be curious exactly how your reading habit leads to how happy you feel.

In looking for answers, I turned to the following sources:

Gretchen Rubin, who literally wrote the book on happiness.

Bibliotherapy and how this technique can improve your state of mind.

A list of books on happiness. Because, sometimes, it’s not just that you’re reading but what you’re reading that leads to happiness.

Happy Reading! (This week’s newsletter, I’m taking this sentiment seriously. LOL!)

Audry

P.S. Readers like you make me happy! If you know someone bookish who would be happy to read this newsletter, hit the share button below and spread the bookish joy near and far!

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Designed on Canva by Audry FryerA Habit-Forming Reading Challenge

Bookshop.org and The Happiness Project author Gretchen Rubin have recently collaborated to create a reading challenge called “ Read 25 in ‘25.” The concept is simple. In 2025, commit to setting aside 25 minutes each day to read. You can sign up for updates and get an app to track your reading progress.

Fun Fact: I have a profile on Bookshop.org, where I’ve curated 30 book lists (so far) on different bookish themes. Check out a few of my “happier” lists:

Life-Changing Books Highly Recommended by Readers

Romance Novels with a "Happily Ever After"

Feel-Good Fiction Books for Summer

Bookish Reading Tip: How to Make Reading Part of Your Routine

If you’re taking on the challenge above to read 25 minutes a day or would just like to make reading an *actual* habit, it helps to find a place in your daily routine where you can easily fit in reading time. For example, many people schedule time for exercise in their day. So why not do the same thing for reading?

I like to read over my lunch break. But many people I know enjoy reading before going to bed each night. So, it’s just a matter of finding a time that works in your daily schedule and sticking to it consistently. After a while, you don’t have to even think about it. Reading just becomes part of your everyday.

🤔 When is your favorite time of day to read?

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Bookish Question of the Month: Does a Reading Habit Make You Happier?

The short answer is yes, it can! As readers, we know firsthand how getting lost in a novel or the inspiring words of a memoir can provide an escape from our lives and open us up to a new perspective. Even the act of taking time for ourselves to indulge in an activity that’s just for the pure enjoyment of it has a direct positive effect on our happiness.

More and more studies prove this connection between reading habits and mood-boosting benefits. So much occurs in our brains when we read! All this cognitive activity directly leads to many surprising benefits, including a mood boost!

Here are five ways a reading routine leads to increased happiness:

😌 Lowers your stress. (One study found by up to 68%) Reading lowers cortisol levels, your heart rate, and your blood pressure while increasing mood-lifting neurotransmitters like endorphins and dopamine.

😴 Improves your sleep, especially if you read before going to bed as a way to unwind and unplug from social media.

😀 Creates a connection with others by feeling validated by a character’s struggles in a story. Also, it provides social opportunities through discussing books with friends or attending book clubs.

🤗 Increases empathy and creativity through imagining other people’s lives and creating meaning from their stories.

☺️ Feel more peaceful because reading helps you focus and be present on the words on the page.

Bookish Thoughts: What is Bibliotherapy?

Considering the benefits of reading listed above, it’s no wonder that many mental health experts and therapists have been turning to books for their healing power to help their patients work through their feelings. Bibliotherapy involves selecting a book that resonates with what one of their clients is going through, such as trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, or personal identity topics. The stories allow a positive way to navigate emotions and perspectives.

If this subject interests you, check out (soon-to-be-released on April 29th) Bibliotherapy in the Bronx by Emely Rumble, LCSW. This fascinating memoir contains research, case studies, and tips based on the author’s multiple years of experience.

Bookish Recs: Books on Happiness Designed on Canva by Audry Fryer (book covers from Bookshop.org)

If you’re looking for some self-bibliotherapy or simply prefer to read nonfiction, these books ought to make you happy. (Or at least teach you a thing or two about happiness!)

These selections are only a small fraction of the dozens upon dozens of books on happiness out there. Perhaps the path to happiness can be found in the pages of a book after all!

The Happiness Project (Revised Edition) by Gretchen Rubin – The book that started it all and elevated Gretchen Rubin to expert status on happiness.

Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths for Our Complex Lives by Gretchen Rubin – This new release, as of April 1, 2025, is perfect if you just can’t get enough of Gretchen Rubin’s brand of wisdom.

The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathan Haidt – This book, published in 2006, tops nearly every “books on happiness” list. (Author Jonathan Haidt might be on to something here!)

The DOSE Effect by Tj Power – This fascinating, newly published book already has tens of thousands of glowing reviews!

Don't Believe Everything You Think (Expanded Edition) by Joseph Nguyen – Is the secret to happiness found by ending your suffering? Think about it!

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles – I had to add this one because I noticed a friend reading it, and she shared how she was thoroughly enjoying it!

Bookish Quote of the Week

“What you do every day matters more than what you do once in a while.”

― Gretchen Rubin, The Happiness Project

This content may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission (just enough to grab a coffee) at no additional cost to you!

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? 😊Please consider supporting the newsletter today with a paid subscription. (Psst! You’ll get a surprise!)

Does a Reading Habit Make You Happier?

Is there a connection between your reading habit and how happy you feel? It’s no secret that reading each day is an enjoyable way to spend your time. So, the better question may be: How does your daily practice of reading for pleasure increase your happiness?

Today, I’ll turn to Gretchen Rubin, who literally wrote the book on happiness, for answers. And I’m sharing Gretchen’s reading challenge, “Read 25 in ’25,” which is hosting a chance to win a “free books for life” giveaway. (Winning would definitely help me feel happier!)

Finally, sometimes, it’s not just that you’re reading but what you’re reading that leads to happiness. So, I’ve put together a list of books on happiness. Plus, I’m shining a light on bibliotherapy and how you can use this technique to improve your state of mind.

Happy Reading! (This week’s newsletter, I’m taking this sentiment seriously. LOL!)

Audry

P.S. Readers like you make me happy! If you know someone bookish who would be happy to read this newsletter, hit the share button below and spread the bookish joy near and far!

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This content may contain affiliate links that earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Designed on Canva by Audry FryerBookish Reading Challenge (and a Chance to Win Free Books!)

I’m saving you from scrolling! If you read “free books for life” in my intro above, and now that’s all you can think about, here are the details: *Enter here (using my referral link) for a chance to win a $500 gift card to Bookshop.org each year for life! 5 second-place winners will get a $100.00 Bookshop.org gift card. And since Bookshop.org supports local bookstores, you can nominate your local bookstore to win a $500 donation.

*Side note: I wish I had learned about this giveaway sooner because you only have until April 18th to sign up. So, hopefully, you’re reading about it in time!

The giveaway is all part of a collaboration with Bookshop.org and The Happiness Project author Gretchen Rubin. Together, they’ve created a reading challenge called “Read 25 in ’25.” The concept is simple. In 2025, commit to setting aside 25 minutes each day to read. You can sign up for updates and get an app to track your reading progress.

Fun Fact: I have a profile on Bookshop.org, where I’ve curated 30 book lists (so far) on different bookish themes. Check out a few of my “happier” lists:

Life-Changing Books Highly Recommended by Readers

Romance Novels with a "Happily Ever After"

Feel-Good Fiction Books for Summer

Bookish Reading Tip: How to Make Reading Part of Your Routine

If you’re taking on the challenge above to read 25 minutes a day or would just like to make reading an *actual* habit, it helps to find a place in your daily routine where you can easily fit in reading time. For example, many people schedule time for exercise in their day. So why not do the same thing for reading?

I like to read over my lunch break. But many people I know enjoy reading before going to bed each night. So, it’s just a matter of finding a time that works in your daily schedule and sticking to it consistently. After a while, you don’t have to even think about it. Reading just becomes part of your everyday.

🤔 When is your favorite time of day to read?

Leave a comment

Bookish Question of the Month: Does a Reading Habit Make You Happier?

The short answer is yes, it can! As readers, we know firsthand how getting lost in a novel or the inspiring words of a memoir can provide an escape from our lives and open us up to a new perspective. Even the act of taking time for ourselves to indulge in an activity that’s just for the pure enjoyment of it has a direct positive effect on our happiness.

More and more studies prove this connection between reading habits and mood-boosting benefits. So much occurs in our brains when we read! All this cognitive activity directly leads to many surprising benefits, including a mood boost!

Here are five ways a reading routine leads to increased happiness:

😌 Lowers your stress. (One study found by up to 68%) Reading lowers cortisol levels, your heart rate, and your blood pressure while increasing mood-lifting neurotransmitters like endorphins and dopamine.

😴 Improves your sleep, especially if you read before going to bed as a way to unwind and unplug from social media.

😀 Creates a connection with others by feeling validated by a character’s struggles in a story. Also, it provides social opportunities through discussing books with friends or attending book clubs.

🤗 Increases empathy and creativity through imagining other people’s lives and creating meaning from their stories.

☺️ Feel more peaceful because reading helps you focus and be present on the words on the page.

Bookish Thoughts: What is Bibliotherapy?

Considering the benefits of reading listed above, it’s no wonder that many mental health experts and therapists have been turning to books for their healing power to help their patients work through their feelings. Bibliotherapy involves selecting a book that resonates with what one of their clients is going through, such as trauma, grief, relationship difficulties, or personal identity topics. The stories allow a positive way to navigate emotions and perspectives.

If this subject interests you, check out (soon-to-be-released on April 29th) Bibliotherapy in the Bronx by Emely Rumble, LCSW. This fascinating memoir contains research, case studies, and tips based on the author’s multiple years of experience.

Bookish Recs: Books on Happiness

If you’re looking for some self-bibliotherapy or simply prefer to read nonfiction, these books ought to make you happy. (Or at least teach you a thing or two about happiness!)

These selections are only a small fraction of the dozens upon dozens of books on happiness out there. Perhaps the path to happiness can be found in the pages of a book after all!

The Happiness Project (Revised Edition) by Gretchen Rubin – The book that started it all and elevated Gretchen Rubin to expert status on happiness.

Secrets of Adulthood: Simple Truths for Our Complex Lives by Gretchen Rubin – This new release, as of April 1, 2025, is perfect if you just can’t get enough of Gretchen Rubin’s brand of wisdom.

The Happiness Hypothesis: Finding Modern Truth in Ancient Wisdom by Jonathan Haidt – This book, published in 2006, tops nearly every “books on happiness” list. (Author Jonathan Haidt might be on to something here!)

The DOSE Effect by Tj Power – This fascinating, newly published book already has tens of thousands of glowing reviews!

Don't Believe Everything You Think (Expanded Edition) by Joseph Nguyen – Is the secret to happiness found by ending your suffering? Think about it!

Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life by Héctor García and Francesc Miralles – I had to add this one because I noticed a friend reading it, and she shared how she was thoroughly enjoying it!

Bookish Quote of the Week

“What you do every day matters more than what you do once in a while.”

― Gretchen Rubin, The Happiness Project

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? Please consider supporting the newsletter today with a paid subscription. (Psst! You’ll get a surprise!)

Give Your TBR a Spring Refresh!🌷

The spring reading season is in full bloom, with plenty of exciting new releases, celebrity book clubs recently announcing their picks for April, and it’s National Library Week. So, today, I’ve got 11 new book recommendations to add a refresh to your TBR. Just like the unpredictable spring weather, I’ve listed “sunny” rom-coms, “rainy day” family dramas, “stormy” mysteries, and more!

And in case you’re like me and have trouble deciding what to read next (especially when there are so many great books coming out), I’m sharing my process for deciding on my next book. (Speaking of, my mom just finished Broken Country and loved it. So, that may just be my next read! I think … probably.)

This time of year, the pull of getting out into my garden often competes with my downtime to read. I may take my advice from last week and listen to an audiobook while I mulch and hem in new plants. Of course, I love a rainy day when I don’t feel bad about not going outside and can get cozy with a book and a mug of tea.

How about you? Does the spring weather affect your reading habits?

Leave a comment

Happy Reading!

Audry

P.S. Last week’s poll on what day you’d like to see Bookish AF in your inbox has Wednesday barely in the lead over Saturday morning. I’m keeping the poll up for an extra week. So, click here if you have a preference and want to vote for it!

P.P.S. I’m so thankful to all of you who have generously upgraded to paid! I’m beyond honored and humbled that you’re enjoying this newsletter. Your support means so much to me. 💗

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? Please support the newsletter today with a paid subscription. You’ll get a surprise- a super cute mini-reading journal to download!

Photo by Audry Fryer

The following content contains affiliate links that earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Bookish Update: April's Celebrity Book Club Selections

I love seeing what books have caught the interest of celebrity book clubs. Often, you can count on a well-crafted story by a talented author. Here are the latest picks for April 2025:

Reese’s Book Club

All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett

This one looks like a fun escape! Recent college grad Anna follows her dreams of living in London, just like the Jane Austen books she used to read in her local library. However, she can’t leave behind the fact that she still has a money issue. That is until she takes a tutoring job with the elite Wilders, who whisk her off to Saint-Tropez. Anna is soon making questionable decisions, meeting new love interests, and getting so caught up in this lifestyle that she risks losing what’s most important.

Read with Jenna

Heartwood by Amity Gaige

This mystery will have you turning pages as you become more and more emotionally invested in whether or not lost Appalachian Trail hiker Valerie will be found in the Maine wilderness. The story shifts from the viewpoint of three characters. We learn about married, forty-two-year-old Valerie from the letters she has been writing to her mother. We also follow Beverly, the detective known for her search and rescue skills, and Lena, an older woman living in a retirement home with a love of the forest, who becomes an unexpected help. Then, there’s the suspicion that Valerie’s disappearance may not be an accident! What really happened to Valerie?

Good Morning America Book Club

The Sirens by Emilia Hart

From the author of Weyward comes another intriguing tale of magical realism mixed with historical fiction. However, instead of witches, this book focuses on sirens, mythological creatures known for luring men to their deaths at sea. This eerily dark tale follows Lucy, who is looking for her missing sister Jess in the present. Somehow, they both have recurrent dreams about two sisters who were forced to leave Ireland for a penal colony in Australia in the 1800s and the abuse they suffered at the hands of men.

Oprah's Book Club

The Tell by Amy Griffin

Fans of memoirs, heads up: This book is already earning glowing reviews. Amy Griffin appeared to have the perfect life. She’s in great shape, has a beautiful family, and is a successful investor in popular products like Spanx. However, Amy’s life-long passion for running seemed to be more than an exercise habit. Amy was running from something, but she didn’t know exactly what. Motivated by her daughter’s observation that she seemed “checked out,” Amy set out to find the truth, using controversial methods such as therapy that included psychedelics.

Jimmy Fallon (last summer’s pick)

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

I’m including this selection from last summer for a few reasons. First, it’s “newish,” published last July. This is my first celebrity book round-up here on Bookish AF, so I’m trying to cover them all. And, finally, I’m currently reading this lengthy but captivating book, which continues to rack up four and five-star reviews … for good reason! If you enjoy a mystery with excellent storytelling, pick up this mystery about what happened to missing camper Barbara Van Laar in 1975. The twist? Barbara, the daughter of the camp’s owners, isn’t the first child in her family to go missing.

Have friends that are Bookish AF? Share the literary love!

Share

Bookish Recs: April New Releases

April is bringing it with exciting new releases to add a spring refresh to your TBR! Here are a few intriguing choices worth checking out:

The Library of Lost Dollhouses by Elise Hooper

In this story that mixes history with present day, librarian Tildy Burrows unexpectedly finds a hidden room and two mysterious dollhouses. In her curiosity and hoping that what she discovers may save her San Francisco library from bankruptcy, Tildy begins researching the dollhouses and uncovers fascinating secrets. The story also unfolds through Cora, the artist behind the dollhouses, who left San Francisco for Paris in the early 1900s.

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez

Who’s up for a rom-com? This book delivers a balance of humor and emotional depth. The story begins with what seems like a wonderful budding romance between Samantha and Xavier. However, despite an unforgettable first date, Samantha has far too much going on in her life for a relationship. Can the sparks that once flew now survive the 2,000-mile distance that stands between them? The reviews are quite good so far, but it’s not your typical light-hearted romance.

The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner

I’ve been a fan of Jennifer Weiner for decades, so I was excited to learn about her latest novel that takes on pop music and sister drama. Cassie and Zoe Grossberg, a.k.a. The Griffin Sisters, were once a hit pop duo in the early 2000s for about one year … until their success came to a grinding halt. Now, twenty years later, the sisters have little in common and less reason to look back until Zoe’s daughter starts uncovering their past. (This book was also selected for this month’s Amazon book club, Sarah Selects, run by Amazon’s editorial director, Sarah Gelman.)

The Other Lata by Kirthana Ramisetti

If you love a clever premise, a less-than-perfect main character, and New York society, pick this one up. Lata Murphy has been receiving emails intended for a woman with the same name. But, other than sharing a name, the two women have little in common. Lata leads a meager life while “the other Lata” gets invites to swanky soirees, high-brow fundraisers, and fancy boutiques. So, can you blame Lata for taking on this other woman’s identity? And don’t you want to read what happens when she does? I do!

The Float Test by Lynn Steger Strong

In this entertaining family drama set in balmy Florida, four siblings struggle with the recent loss of their mother while juggling their less-than-perfect lives. Jenn, the oldest, is an overwhelmed mom. Fred is a novelist fighting with her sister, Jude, a former corporate lawyer, over a family secret. And George, the baby of the family, is managing a failed marriage and a flirtation.

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

This multi-generational novel unveils a secret kingdom of freed people that once existed in the western North Carolina hills. Nikki’s mother and grandmother have been estranged for years. Hoping to find answers, she honors her grandmother’s request to visit her. Here, Nikki learns about this area’s unbelievable past and her family ties to its history.

Bookish Reading Tip: How to Decide What to Read Next Created on Canva by Audry Fryer

The best part of a TBR list is the thrill of finding books to add to it. No doubt after the list I’ve shared above, you’ve likely added a title or two (or ten, LOL!).

So, then it goes that the worst part of a TBR list is trying to decide which book to read next. Do you go with the one everyone is talking about? The book that’s on everyone’s bookstagram or booktok? Or do you take a chance on a lesser-known title that piqued your interest?

I have a confession…I’m terrible at making decisions. I can always see all sides of a situation, which is both a blessing and a curse. But, mostly, it means I remain stuck or, worse, second-guess my choices.

But, fortunately, I’ve discovered a way to get around all this indecision so you can choose your next book. Here’s how:

Choose three to five books from your TBR list.

Then, get a sample or open the print book and read only the first or few sentences.

Take a break for a few minutes or even a day.

Then, notice which opening lines stuck with you or made you the most curious.

The book that stays on your mind the most is your next read!

Don’t overthink it. Just start reading. And remind yourself that when you’re done with this one, you can always circle back to one of the books that you didn’t choose this time around.

Bookish Celebration: National Library Week

“I always felt, if I can get to a library, I’ll be OK.” —Maya Angelou

Visit your local library, bring a friend, get a library card, and browse the shelves because April 6-12, 2025, is National Library Week. When my children were young, the local library was a favorite place to visit for storytime and community events. So, I’m all for doing what I can to support libraries. Today, I have a library card that I use on the Libby app.

It’s no secret that our local libraries face many challenges, from lack of funding to censorship issues. Visit the official National Library Week website to learn how you can help libraries continue to remain a valued community resource.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“Spring is made of solid, fourteen-karat gratitude, the reward for the long wait. Every religious tradition from the northern hemisphere honors some form of April hallelujah, for this is the season of exquisite redemption, a slam-bang return to joy after a season of cold second thoughts.”

― Barbara Kingsolver, “Animal, Vegetable, Mineral”

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? Please support the newsletter today with a paid subscription. You’ll get a surprise- a super cute mini-reading journal to download!

11 New Book Recs for Spring 🌷

The spring reading season is in full bloom, with plenty of exciting new releases, celebrity book clubs recently announcing their picks for April, and it’s National Library Week. So, today, I’ve got 11 new book recommendations to add a refresh to your TBR. Just like the unpredictable spring weather, I’ve listed “sunny” rom-coms, “rainy day” family dramas, “stormy” mysteries, and more!

And in case you’re like me and have trouble deciding what to read next (especially when there are so many great books coming out), I’m sharing my process for deciding on my next book. (Speaking of, my mom just finished Broken Country and loved it. So, that may just be my next read! I think … probably.)

This time of year, the pull of getting out into my garden often competes with my downtime to read. I may take my advice from last week and listen to an audiobook while I mulch and hem in new plants. Of course, I love a rainy day when I don’t feel bad about not going outside and can get cozy with a book and a mug of tea.

How about you? Does the spring weather affect your reading habits?

Leave a comment

Happy Reading!

Audry

P.S. Last week’s poll on what day you’d like to see Bookish AF in your inbox has Wednesday barely in the lead over Saturday morning. I’m keeping the poll up for an extra week. So, click here if you have a preference and want to vote for it!

P.P.S. I’m so thankful to all of you who have generously upgraded to paid! I’m beyond honored and humbled that you’re enjoying this newsletter. Your support means so much to me. 💗

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? Please support the newsletter today with a paid subscription. You’ll get a surprise- a super cute mini-reading journal to download!

Photo by Audry Fryer Bookish Update: April's Celebrity Book Club Selections

I love seeing what books have caught the interest of celebrity book clubs. Often, you can count on a well-crafted story by a talented author. Here are the latest picks for April 2025:

Reese’s Book Club

All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett

This one looks like a fun escape! Recent college grad Anna follows her dreams of living in London, just like the Jane Austen books she used to read in her local library. However, she can’t leave behind the fact that she still has a money issue. That is until she takes a tutoring job with the elite Wilders, who whisk her off to Saint-Tropez. Anna is soon making questionable decisions, meeting new love interests, and getting so caught up in this lifestyle that she risks losing what’s most important.

Read with Jenna

Heartwood by Amity Gaige

This mystery will have you turning pages as you become more and more emotionally invested in whether or not lost Appalachian Trail hiker Valerie will be found in the Maine wilderness. The story shifts from the viewpoint of three characters. We learn about married, forty-two-year-old Valerie from the letters she has been writing to her mother. We also follow Beverly, the detective known for her search and rescue skills, and Lena, an older woman living in a retirement home with a love of the forest, who becomes an unexpected help. Then, there’s the suspicion that Valerie’s disappearance may not be an accident! What really happened to Valerie?

Good Morning America Book Club

The Sirens by Emilia Hart

From the author of Weyward comes another intriguing tale of magical realism mixed with historical fiction. However, instead of witches, this book focuses on sirens, mythological creatures known for luring men to their deaths at sea. This eerily dark tale follows Lucy, who is looking for her missing sister Jess in the present. Somehow, they both have recurrent dreams about two sisters who were forced to leave Ireland for a penal colony in Australia in the 1800s and the abuse they suffered at the hands of men.

Oprah's Book Club

The Tell by Amy Griffin

Fans of memoirs, heads up: This book is already earning glowing reviews. Amy Griffin appeared to have the perfect life. She’s in great shape, has a beautiful family, and is a successful investor in popular products like Spanx. However, Amy’s life-long passion for running seemed to be more than an exercise habit. Amy was running from something, but she didn’t know exactly what. Motivated by her daughter’s observation that she seemed “checked out,” Amy set out to find the truth, using controversial methods such as therapy that included psychedelics.

Jimmy Fallon (last summer’s pick)

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

I’m including this selection from last summer for a few reasons. First, it’s “newish,” published last July. This is my first celebrity book round-up here on Bookish AF, so I’m trying to cover them all. And, finally, I’m currently reading this lengthy but captivating book, which continues to rack up four and five-star reviews … for good reason! If you enjoy a mystery with excellent storytelling, pick up this mystery about what happened to missing camper Barbara Van Laar in 1975. The twist? Barbara, the daughter of the camp’s owners, isn’t the first child in her family to go missing.

Have friends that are Bookish AF? Share the literary love!

Share

Bookish Recs: April New Releases

April is bringing it with exciting new releases to add a spring refresh to your TBR! Here are a few intriguing choices worth checking out:

The Library of Lost Dollhouses by Elise Hooper

In this story that mixes history with present day, librarian Tildy Burrows unexpectedly finds a hidden room and two mysterious dollhouses. In her curiosity and hoping that what she discovers may save her San Francisco library from bankruptcy, Tildy begins researching the dollhouses and uncovers fascinating secrets. The story also unfolds through Cora, the artist behind the dollhouses, who left San Francisco for Paris in the early 1900s.

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez

Who’s up for a rom-com? This book delivers a balance of humor and emotional depth. The story begins with what seems like a wonderful budding romance between Samantha and Xavier. However, despite an unforgettable first date, Samantha has far too much going on in her life for a relationship. Can the sparks that once flew now survive the 2,000-mile distance that stands between them? The reviews are quite good so far, but it’s not your typical light-hearted romance.

The Griffin Sisters’ Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner

I’ve been a fan of Jennifer Weiner for decades, so I was excited to learn about her latest novel that takes on pop music and sister drama. Cassie and Zoe Grossberg, a.k.a. The Griffin Sisters, were once a hit pop duo in the early 2000s for about one year … until their success came to a grinding halt. Now, twenty years later, the sisters have little in common and less reason to look back until Zoe’s daughter starts uncovering their past. (This book was also selected for this month’s Amazon book club, Sarah Selects, run by Amazon’s editorial director, Sarah Gelman.)

The Other Lata by Kirthana Ramisetti

If you love a clever premise, a less-than-perfect main character, and New York society, pick this one up. Lata Murphy has been receiving emails intended for a woman with the same name. But, other than sharing a name, the two women have little in common. Lata leads a meager life while “the other Lata” gets invites to swanky soirees, high-brow fundraisers, and fancy boutiques. So, can you blame Lata for taking on this other woman’s identity? And don’t you want to read what happens when she does? I do!

The Float Test by Lynn Steger Strong

In this entertaining family drama set in balmy Florida, four siblings struggle with the recent loss of their mother while juggling their less-than-perfect lives. Jenn, the oldest, is an overwhelmed mom. Fred is a novelist fighting with her sister, Jude, a former corporate lawyer, over a family secret. And George, the baby of the family, is managing a failed marriage and a flirtation.

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez

This multi-generational novel unveils a secret kingdom of freed people that once existed in the western North Carolina hills. Nikki’s mother and grandmother have been estranged for years. Hoping to find answers, she honors her grandmother’s request to visit her. Here, Nikki learns about this area’s unbelievable past and her family ties to its history.

Bookish Reading Tip: How to Decide What to Read Next Created on Canva by Audry Fryer

The best part of a TBR list is the thrill of finding books to add to it. No doubt after the list I’ve shared above, you’ve likely added a title or two (or ten, LOL!).

So, then it goes that the worst part of a TBR list is trying to decide which book to read next. Do you go with the one everyone is talking about? The book that’s on everyone’s bookstagram or booktok? Or do you take a chance on a lesser-known title that piqued your interest?

I have a confession…I’m terrible at making decisions. I can always see all sides of a situation, which is both a blessing and a curse. But, mostly, it means I remain stuck or, worse, second-guess my choices.

But, fortunately, I’ve discovered a way to get around all this indecision so you can choose your next book. Here’s how:

Choose three to five books from your TBR list.

Then, get a sample or open the print book and read only the first or few sentences.

Take a break for a few minutes or even a day.

Then, notice which opening lines stuck with you or made you the most curious.

The book that stays on your mind the most is your next read!

Don’t overthink it. Just start reading. And remind yourself that when you’re done with this one, you can always circle back to one of the books that you didn’t choose this time around.

Bookish Celebration: National Library Week

“I always felt, if I can get to a library, I’ll be OK.” —Maya Angelou

Visit your local library, bring a friend, get a library card, and browse the shelves because April 6-12, 2025, is National Library Week. When my children were young, the local library was a favorite place to visit for storytime and community events. So, I’m all for doing what I can to support libraries. Today, I have a library card that I use on the Libby app.

It’s no secret that our local libraries face many challenges, from lack of funding to censorship issues. Visit the official National Library Week website to learn how you can help libraries continue to remain a valued community resource.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“Spring is made of solid, fourteen-karat gratitude, the reward for the long wait. Every religious tradition from the northern hemisphere honors some form of April hallelujah, for this is the season of exquisite redemption, a slam-bang return to joy after a season of cold second thoughts.”

― Barbara Kingsolver, “Animal, Vegetable, Mineral”

Enjoying Bookish AF every week? Please support the newsletter today with a paid subscription. You’ll get a surprise- a super cute mini-reading journal to download!

Audiobooks Are Not Cheating

After discovering that a recent article in the Washington Post had discussed the seemingly never-ending debate of whether or not you can say you read a book after listening to the audiobook, I thought it opened up the perfect chance to end the deliberation … If you listened to the audiobook version of a book, then no, that’s not cheating, and yes, you read that book. End of story!

But if you still need scientific proof, a study in The Journal of Neuroscience found that our brains respond exactly the same whether you read or listen to the words in a book. There you go. And I’ll go even further to say that listening to audiobooks offers many benefits (even some that silently reading a print book doesn’t offer - gasp!).

So, audiobook fans, this one’s for you! Today, we’re talking all things audiobooks. I’m covering how adding audiobooks to your reading routine helps you read more books. Then, I’m listing the best audiobook sites (especially ones that will save you money), plus the top 10 bestselling audiobooks of 2025 so far. I’ll end by sharing two exciting new book adaptations you can watch now. (BTW: Sorry, kids, “watching” doesn’t count as reading!)

Happy Reading … or, actually, Happy Listening!

Audry

P.S. A heartfelt thank you to all of you who opted to become paid subscribers! I can’t even begin to tell you how much I appreciate your support!

Bookish AF is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

What Day Are You in a Bookish Vibe?

Before we get into today’s bookish topic, I want to know which day you’d prefer each week's Bookish AF to land in your inbox. Right now, I’m sending it out on Wednesday mornings. But I was considering scheduling the newsletter for the weekend, when most people have a little more time to think about leisurely activities like relaxing with a book.

So, choose a day of the week, and the one with the most votes will win the day!

Quick Bookish Reading Tip

If you want to read more, audiobooks are the way to go.

Even if you regularly read print books, supplementing with audiobooks can seriously up your game. My friends who work full-time and lead otherwise very busy lives read a lot of books. And by “a lot of books,” I’m saying that a few of them log in a hundred books in a year. How do they do it? That’s right … by fitting audiobooks into their daily schedules!

5 Bookish Benefits of Listening to Audiobooks Created on Canva by Audry Fryer

Listening to a book frees up your eyes and your hands. It’s a multi-tasking match made in heaven! My friends put their commutes to good use and listen to books as they drive. In addition, you can also listen to a book whenever you have a mundane task to complete, like cleaning or folding laundry, or while you’re walking or jogging or doing a craft that requires repetition, such as knitting.

If you’d like to expand to different genres, consider listening to books you wouldn’t typically read. If you’re going to pair reading a print book silently and listening to a second book, I’ve found that reading two different genres can help keep each book straight. I’ve found that I prefer to read fiction and listen to nonfiction, especially if the author is well-known and narrating their book or memoir.

Audiobooks can make big books or a series of books seem less overwhelming and more doable. For example, if you wanted to read every book related to the Hunger Games, it may seem like too big of a goal. However, if you listen to the audiobook versions, because someone is reading them to you, you have a better chance of knocking them out. (Especially thanks to the multitasking benefit I highlighted earlier!)

Audiobooks can offer a better alternative before you head to bed if you read on your phone or tablet. Plus, our lives have become ripe for visual overstimulation. So, listening allows you to rest your eyes. And when you’re tired, it’s such an effort to focus both your eyes and your thoughts on reading words. But it’s much easier to listen to a story, even when you’re exhausted.

Finally, audiobooks offer a few unique psychological benefits over print books. Listening to someone else read has been linked to a greater impact on improving mental health than reading silently. Focusing on someone reading to you helps slow negative thoughts. And, if you make audiobooks part of your everyday life, you may lower your stress over things like traffic jams or tedious chores and actually welcome them because it gives you a chance to get in more chapters of your book.

Getting Bookish with the Best Audiobook Sites Created on Canva by Audry Fryer

The following content contains affiliate links that earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

For all its perks, an audiobook habit can get expensive unless you choose a service linked to a library. However, if you go the library route, you’ll have to be flexible with what’s available and understand that you’ll have a limited time window for access to the audiobook.

So, to help you find an audiobook site that will work with your budget and expectations, here’s a quick rundown of the top audiobook sites.

The Libby app is free and allows you to borrow audiobooks from your library directly to your mobile device. Older titles are not a problem, but new releases, which tend to be in higher demand, often come with a waitlist.

More library-based apps that are FREE: Hoopla, Overdrive, and Burrowbox.

In the “free-ish category,” type in “audiobooks full length” on YouTube and discover quite a selection! However, unless you’re using the paid version, you’re in for some ad interruptions.

Similarly, Spotify also provides free access to a limited supply of audiobooks. The paid version can be pricey, but it expands your selection. Realistically, if you’re already paying for music, why not hit play on an audiobook?

If you’re willing to pay, a subscription to Audible will open the door to more audiobooks than you can read in a lifetime! (Why do I feel like someone out there will take this as a challenge?) Audible often runs deals, so play the game and see what you can get for free or cheap!

Libro.fm is another paid subscription service. It supports independent bookstores, so if that’s one of your priorities, it’s worth looking into. The app is easy to use, and you’ll gain access to an extensive library of audiobooks.

Chirp is fun if you don’t like subscription fees but do like the thrill of a flash deal. They’ll send you a daily email with audiobook deals for less than $5. Many of these include popular titles and authors!

Bookish Recs: 10 of the Bestselling Audiobooks on Audible

Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins and narrated by Jefferson White, who you may know as Jimmy Hurdstrom on Paramount’s Yellowstone. This fifth book in the Hunger Games series is a prequel set twenty-four years earlier and follows a young Haymitch Abernathy when he was competing in the Hunger Games.

The Let Them Theory, written by and narrated by Mel Robbins (in her captivating, highly recognizable voice!) Mel Robbins, best known for The Five Second Rule and her wildly popular podcast, shares in this book how two words, “let them,” can change your life.

Abundance, written and narrated by journalists Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson. If you’re looking for an audiobook to get you thinking, this book lays out a new political vision that shifts the emphasis from a pessimistic outlook to a path toward abundance (as the title states!).

Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros and narrated by Jasmin Walker, Justis Bolding, Teddy Hamilton, and Rebecca Soler. This third book in the bestselling romantasy series follows Violet Sorrengail at the Basgiath War College, where she is training as a military dragon rider and preparing for the coming attacks that threaten her world. The reviews are mixed both on the story and the narration quality.

Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall and narrated by Hattie Morahan. I shared this book’s popularity and its skyrocketing ratings in last week's newsletter. The audiobook is also raking in the high ratings. Readers are giving it a lot of love for the engaging story (the love triangle and the thrilling mystery) and the excellent narration.

The Wedding People by Alison Espach and narrated by Helen Laser. If you’re in the mood for entertaining, heart-warming fiction, this book pairs an uninvited and unintentional wedding guest, the brokenhearted Phoebe, and the Newport, Rhode Island wedding party that uplifts her. Listeners enjoy Helen Laser’s performance. (Be aware: this book contains some “f-bombs.”)

The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More, written and narrated by Jefferson Fisher, a trial lawyer and communication expert. You’ll learn practical approaches for life’s most difficult conversations (often with the most difficult people in your life!).

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir and narrated by Ray Porter. This popular science-fiction thriller has earned rave reviews for its story and the narration. If you listen to audiobooks while you commute, you may be taking the long way home with this one about an astronaut working single-handedly to save Earth before it’s too late. Andy Weir is also the author of the bestselling novel The Martian.

The Anxious Generation: How the Great Rewiring of Childhood Is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness by Jonathan Haidt and narrated by Sean Pratt and Jonathan Haidt. My friends who are teachers have read and can’t say enough good things about the powerful message in this book. If you have or work with children, it’s full of eye-opening facts about how screen time and social media erode mental health.

Nobody's Fool by Harlan Coben and narrated by Vikas Adam. For fans of thrillers, this book picks up a year after the end of the first book and Netflix adaption “Fool Me Once.” In this story, former detective Sami Kierce, revisits a deadly mystery from his past when the woman he last saw covered in blood and murdered twenty-two years ago suddenly appears in the back of the class he’s teaching.

Bookish Entertainment News

Even though watching book adaptions doesn’t count as reading, it’s still a fantastic way to enjoy a book you’ve read or a story you want to enjoy but don’t plan on reading. So, I’ve rounded up two new book adaptions out now.

The Life List on Netflix shares the story of a young woman who must complete her mother’s dying wish of checking off all the items on her teenage bucket list. Based on the international bestselling novel with the same name, Alex Rose (Brett Bohlinger in the novel) discovers family secrets, romance, and more than she ever knew about herself.

Long Bright River on Peacock is based on the highly acclaimed book by Liz Moore (which landed on Barack Obama’s list of favorite books of the year). The Peacock adaptation stars Amanda Seyfried as the Philadelphia police officer assigned to a neighborhood hit hard by the opioid epidemic and now where a series of murders have recently taken place. Like in the book, her sister, who has an addiction problem on these same streets, has recently gone missing.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“And that’s part of our trouble. Thinking things are inevitable. Not believing change is possible.”

― Suzanne Collins, Sunrise on the Reaping

Next on Bookish AF

Get ready for a round-up of the latest celebrity book club picks for April and exciting new releases to add a spring refresh to your TBR!

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Hello Beautiful Bookish Friends

Hello, and welcome to my first newsletter here on Substack!

I started this newsletter because I love kicking back with a book (preferably fiction) and a steaming mug of tea. I also love discussing the books I’ve read, searching for my next read, and writing fiction (although I haven’t done as much of that recently). So, if you love stories and all things bookish, too, you’re in the right place. I’m so excited you’re here!

Today, I’m sharing a little about my background story (let’s be friends!). Then, I’ve got three book recommendations based on March book club selections to freshen up your reading list for Spring! Finally, I’m discussing the latest book I’ve finished, “Hello Beautiful,” with a snippet about its author, Ann Napolitano. Her background story has a few nuggets of wisdom that anyone can apply to their life (not just those aspiring to be authors).

Thanks again for joining me here!

Happy reading!

Audry

Bookish AF is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

The “AF” in Bookish AF Image by Audry Fryer

Hi, I’m Audry Fryer, a.k.a. the “AF” in Bookish AF. (But you can make the “AF” stand for whatever you want - wink, wink!) Before I started all this “bookish stuff,” I put my Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education to work as an elementary school substitute teacher and then as a Pre-K teacher for many years.

However, when I discovered I was having boy/girl twins when my oldest son was only two, I decided to stay home with them. It was then that I rediscovered my love of reading (thanks to my mom passing along her books to me!). And it was also then that I realized my new dream of becoming a writer.

So, as my children grew, I wrote and read (and wrote some more) while they were napping or when they were off to school. During that time, I self-published two women’s fiction novels and one short story. Recently, in collaboration with a family, I wrote Until Next Sunday, a true story based on over a hundred-year-old love letters. I’ve also helped many entrepreneurs and small companies through my professional ghostwriting services.

Now, I want to continue the content I’ve shared on my website’s blog for many years in a new and improved format. So, here on Substack, I launched Bookish AF, a weekly newsletter about ways to live your best bookish life. Each week, I’ll share book recs and other helpful bookish content. I promise to change it up a bit from week to week to keep it interesting! As you comment and click on things, I’ll keep tabs and try my best to bring you more of what you enjoy.

In future newsletters, you may see “The Bookish Shop” appear here. When the shop is open, you’ll discover various bookish items and services to make your reading habit even more fun and enjoyable. The Bookish Shop may also feature books from authors looking to connect with readers. Or you may learn about another bookish newsletter to add to your subscriptions!

If you’re interested in having your book or bookish product or service featured, learn more here!

3 Bookish Recs for Spring (based on March Book Club Picks)

The following content contains affiliate links that earn me a commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall

A Reese's Book Club Selection, this book has been racking up four and five-star reviews since its release at the beginning of this month. One of the main reasons it’s getting so much hype is the “didn’t see that coming” ending. I love it when an author can pull that off! I’m reminded of the last sentence of Jodi Piccoult’s “Plain Truth” when you discover, well, the truth. Anyway, this book also offers readers English countryside charm, a love triangle, family drama, and a page-turning deadly mystery.

Jane and Dan at the End of the World by Colleen Oakley

A Good Housekeeping book club selection, this book also landed on Zibby Owens’ list of most anticipated books of 2025. Pick it up for the humorous storytelling and the clever premise: an author experiencing the book she wrote in real life! It makes me reconsider my next novel. If I’m going to get stuck inside, it better have a setting I’d want to visit and an upbeat plot. But, back to this story … Jane is about to ask Dan for a divorce over a dinner out when she’s interrupted by an activist group that takes them hostage. She soon realizes everything happening to them is exactly the same as the failed novel she’s written. If Jane and Dan can survive this, then their marriage can survive, too!

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

This Read with Jenna March 2025 book club pick combines women’s fiction with futuristic dystopian science fiction and horror. This book imagines what would happen if the data from our dreams were under surveillance and their content could be used against us. In the book, Sara Hussein is returning from a business trip from London when she is detained for her potential to commit a crime based on her dreams. Her dreams indicate she’s inclined to harm her husband. (Seriously, she’s returning from a trip and probably stressing how nothing got done while she was away. Just an educated guess!) Now, her incarceration continues with no end in sight. Some reviews share that it starts slow. But don’t fall asleep on this one (see what I did there?) because the suspense heightens toward the end.

Getting Bookish with “Hello Beautiful” and author Ann Napolitano Image by Audry Fryer

Although I’m about a year late to it, I just finished reading “Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano and gave it five stars on Goodreads. It’s so beautifully written. For those of you who like character-driven stories and emotional depth, this book is for you! Your heart will ache for the characters. Also, it references Little Women, which adds an enjoyable literary layer to the story.

A good friend kindly passed along the hardcover to me after finishing and enjoying it. But before making it my next read, I looked at the reviews to see if “Hello Beautiful” was for me. I like it when people are specific about what they didn’t like about a book. Sometimes, a poor review is less about the author doing a terrible job of writing or story-telling and more about the book not being compatible with a person’s tastes. This was the case for most of the one and two-star reviews this book earned.

So, if you like the levity of a rom-com or the suspenseful, page-turning nature of a psychological thriller, this book isn’t your jam. Otherwise, if you enjoy a slower pace with authentic characters, pick this book up!

The story behind the story

Often, when I finish a book, I read the acknowledgments at the back. As an author who aspires to write more, I’m always looking for “pearls of wisdom” on how the author pulled off creating a novel that enjoyed enough success to find its way to me. Then, if I’m intrigued by the author, I’ll Google them to learn more.

“Hello Beautiful” was Oprah’s 100th book club pick, so it was easy to learn about the author, Ann Napolitano. In an interview with Oprah, Ann shares that she wrote this book at the start of the pandemic, and it was the quickest book she’s ever written, finishing it in two years' time. Ann's two sons were in fifth and seventh grade, so they were home the entire time she was writing. So, how did she ever finish the manuscript, let alone so fast?

That’s the wisdom part that Ann acquired before the start of her career. When she was in college, Ann discovered she had Epstein Barr, an auto-immune disease. She had been studying creative writing because she had discovered at a young age that it was something she truly loved doing. A school writing assignment had inspired an Oprah-like “a-ha” moment when Ann thought she had been working for five minutes, but nearly an hour had passed. It was a “time flies when you’re having fun” revelation.

But in college, Ann had planned on pursuing what she considered a more steady career choice to work in publishing, where she would help develop and edit other people’s work. However, being so sick created a defining moment in her life. “I decided to live the life I wanted to live, not the life I thought I should live,” she says in an author profile, “And that meant being a writer.”

So, when Ann felt inspired to start “Hello Beautiful,” she knew that because everyone was home due to the pandemic, she couldn’t keep a set work schedule. So Ann took advantage of every free moment to write. She kept her computer nearby and ready for her to add more to the story at a moment’s notice. Ann was also no stranger to being persistent. Her first two attempts at novel writing in her twenties ended in rejections. However, she always believed she wouldn’t live a fulfilling life without being an author, so she endured. And thankfully, she did through those failed attempts and the distraction of the pandemic.

It’s a lesson we can all learn and benefit from – not just if you’re an aspiring author. Whatever you truly want to do, whether it’s writing, reading a hundred books in a year, or some other dream, find the time for it. Keep moving forward where and when you can, no matter what gets in your way! As I continue with this newsletter and return to creative writing again, it’s something I hope to remember.

Bookish Quote of the Week

“Opportunity did not knock until I built the door.”

― Ann Napolitano, Hello Beautiful

Bookish AF is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

5 Short Books You Can Read in a Day

These entertaining short books inspire rapid page-turning and the satisfaction of finishing a story in one sitting!

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Sometimes, you crave a quick escape but don’t have the time for a hefty novel. Short books, usually under 200 pages, let you enjoy a captivating story without the time commitment.

They’re the perfect way to keep up your reading habits even when you have a busy schedule! Plus, picking up a book you can finish in a day allows you the freedom to experiment with new genres or authors. And if your goal is to read 100 books before the end of the year, adding a few short books into your mix can help you finish the year strong!

This book list offers suspense, fantasy, and a few heart-warming moments, all told by expert storytellers that’ll keep you turning pages from cover to cover. So get cozy because these books are perfect for finishing in one sitting!

This post may contain affiliate links that earn me a commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Audible is running a SALE (for a limited time)! You can get the first 3 months of Audible for only $0.99 a month! That’s a 90% savings on a phenomenal selection of audiobooks, podcasts, and more! 
So, if you’re not sure what to buy that certain someone who’s hard to shop for … Give them the gift of Audible! They’ll love you for it. And you’ll love how easy it was.

Short Books You Can Read in a Day

Skim this Booklist! (Click on a title to jump to the book description.)

Gwendy’s Button Box by Stephen King and Richard ChizmarThe Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil GaimanThe All of It by Jeannette HaienEvery Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuireDrop Dead Sisters by Amelia Diane Coombs.stk-9d6b850-container{background-color:#4fb9af !important;background-image:url(https://www.audryfryer.com/wp-content...) !important;}.stk-9d6b850-container:before{background-color:#4fb9af !important;opacity:0.9 !important;}Join All the Fun!.stk-563a5f3 .stk-block-text__text{text-shadow:2px 4px 5px #00000066 !important;color:#fafafa !important;}

Your BEST Bookish af Life Starts HERE: Monthly booklists, reading tips, and more!

.stk-9583f92 .stk-button-group{flex-direction:row !important;}@media screen and (max-width: 1023px){.stk-9583f92 .stk-button-group{flex-direction:row !important;}}@media screen and (max-width: 767px){.stk-9583f92 .stk-button-group{flex-direction:row !important;}}.stk-36ccff3 .stk-button{background:#fafafa !important;border-top-left-radius:8px !important;border-top-right-radius:8px !important;border-bottom-right-radius:8px !important;border-bottom-left-radius:8px !important;}.stk-36ccff3 .stk-button__inner-text{color:#ee4e34 !important;}Sign Up today!What Are Books You Can Read in One Sitting?

From the suspense of Stephen King to the amusing quick read published by Mindy Kaling, these books may be short on pages, but they’re long on entertainment value!

Gwendy’s Button Box by Stephen King and Richard Chizmar

178 pages. Gwendy’s Button Box Trilogy (3-book series)

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Set in the eerie town of Castle Rock, Maine, in the summer of 1974, 12-year-old Gwendy Peterson has a daily routine of climbing the infamous Suicide Stairs. One day, when she reaches the top, she meets a mysterious man in a black hat who introduces her to an unusual button box with strange powers. As Gwendy’s life intertwines with the box, a thrilling and chilling tale of the darker side of desire and choice unfolds. 

My Thoughts: Written by two master storytellers, this collaboration between Stephen King and Richard Chizmar blends suspense and nostalgia. You won’t want to put it down until you reach the final page!

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million

The Ocean at the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman

181 pages

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This fantastical journey takes you through the memories of a man who revisits his childhood home and the eerie, magical events that shaped his life. When he was just seven, the unnamed narrator befriended a mysterious girl who uncovered dark secrets lurking in his quiet neighborhood. Together, they go on spine-tingling adventures that blend innocence with the supernatural.

My Thoughts: Since its publication in 2013, this book has received critical success and massive enthusiastic recommendations from thousands of readers. Its vivid storytelling makes it incredibly hard to put down. With just the right amount of magic and nostalgia, it’s a delightful choice for anyone looking to escape reality for a few hours!

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million

The All of It by Jeannette Haien

162 pages. With an introduction by Ann Patchett.

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While fishing on a rainy morning on an Irish stream, Father Declan de Loughry can’t shake off the recent deathbed confession from one of his parishioners, Kevin Dennehy. It turns out that Kevin and his wife, Enda, had been keeping a big secret for fifty years! But it’s only when Enda shares her heart-wrenching story of suffering with Father Declan that the true weight of their deception begins to sink in.

My Thoughts: Ann Patchett, acclaimed author of Tom Lake and multiple novels, discovered this hidden gem in a used bookstore. She was so enchanted that she made it her mission to reintroduce it to the world. This book may be short, but it’s long in emotional depth!

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million

Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire

174 pages. Book 1 of Wayward Children (10-book series)

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Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children welcomes children who have fallen down the rabbit hole (literally!) and have now returned, forever changed. The story follows Nancy, who has returned from her own magical world, only to learn that those enchanted places don’t always welcome you back. As Nancy navigates her new life at this home, she discovers that it hides dark secrets. She and her fellow residents must band together to confront the dangers lurking in the shadows.

My Thoughts: This book is an enchanting blend of whimsy and danger that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Its captivating characters, imaginative settings, and fast-paced plot make it perfect for a cozy afternoon read!

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million

Drop Dead Sisters by Amelia Diane Coombs

255 pages. With an introduction from Mindy Kaling. Book 1 of 2: The Finch Sisters. (The next book will be released next year. You can preorder it.)

Three estranged sisters come together for a family camping trip, only to find themselves entangled in a murder mystery when a dead body turns up at their campsite. Hilarity and chaos ensue with the unexpected challenge of covering up the crime. This highly unusual situation pushes them into actually bonding with each other. Remi Finch, who has always struggled with family ties and anxiety, is about to discover what sisterhood truly means.

My Thoughts: A perfect choice for anyone who loves a blend of comedy and mystery! With its relatable characters and amusing moments, you’ll likely breeze through it with a smile. I grabbed up this new release on Amazon First Reads for free because of its connection to the hilarious Mindy Kaling. (She published it through her imprint with Amazon, “Mindy’s Book Studio.”)

Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org

More Book Lists (If You Love Short Books You Can Read In a Day)

There’s something so satisfying about finishing a story in a single sitting or within a week. Maybe it’s the feeling of accomplishment or because you just couldn’t wait to find out how it ended.

Either way, once you’re done with one book, it’s onto the next. Fortunately, I’ve put together some additively page-turning book lists to help you discover your next read!

11 Page-Turners (You Won’t Be Able to Put Down!)Books That Keep You Reading (Past Your Bedtime)Best Psychological Thriller Books with a TwistBest New Fiction Books to Read this Fall7 Mystery Books to Keep You Guessing.stk-ed3d6b5-container{background-image:url(https://www.audryfryer.com/wp-content...) !important;}.stk-f9f1f2e .stk-block-heading__text{text-shadow:2px 2px 4px #00000033 !important;font-size:31px !important;}@media screen and (max-width: 1023px){.stk-f9f1f2e .stk-block-heading__text{font-size:31px !important;}}Enjoy your reading habit more. Get Bookish af!

Monthly booklists, reading tips, and fantastic bookish buys!

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