If you are searching for a gift for the book lover or something new to read this summer and fall, you’ve come to the right place. Our book lovers gift guide has new and older release titles that would make great gifts, plus some other fun bookish items. Grab a blanket, cozy up, and let’s read!
As a bonus, I will also include my GoodReads rating.
Table of Contents
Fiction
Austen At Sea by Natalie Jenner
Two pairs of siblings, devotees of Jane Austen, find their lives transformed by a visit to England and Sir Francis Austen, her last surviving brother and keeper of a long-suppressed, secret legacy.
It’s a voyage and trip that will dramatically change each of their lives in ways that are unforeseen, with the transformative spirit of the love of literature and that of Jane Austen herself.
Not Here to Make Friends by Jodi McAlister
This book is a fresh take on the complexities of modern relationships. McAlister’s insightful writing captures the nuances of friendship and love in today’s world. It’s a relatable and engaging read for anyone navigating their own relationships.
The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods
This charming story, The Lost Bookshop, is a love letter to bookshops and the magic of literature. Woods’ evocative writing will appeal to anyone who dreams of losing themselves among the shelves of a cozy, enchanting bookstore.
Goodreads 4.09/5
It Must Be True Then by Luci Adams
Adams’ charming narrative explores the complexities of truth and perception. Her thoughtful and engaging writing will appeal to readers who enjoy stories that challenge their perspectives and make them think.
It Must Be True Then features a horrible “bury your head under the cover” kind of day, two adorable children to nanny, a hot, single father, and second chances.
The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin
In the wake of tragedy, a group of friends makes a pact that will cause them to reunite a decade later and embark upon a life-changing adventure together—from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Meant to Be.
Non-Fiction
Disney Adults: Exploring (And Falling In Love With) A Magical Subculture by AJ Wolfe
Disney Adults dives deep into a misunderstood subculture, exploring the lives and experiences of a fascinating community to better understand its devotees’ unwavering passion for all things Disney, why it offends, and why it matters.
Mystery/History
A Charming Touch of Tarot by Melissa Holtz
Alyssa, Nina, Lanie, and Corinne’s friendship is being put to the test. With Nina’s marriage falling apart, Lanie acting distant, Alyssa’s new romance, and no one quite trusting Corinne, this may be more than their bond can take. But when Nina appears at Alyssa’s door, and confesses not just a decades-old secret, but a newfound magical power, the friends know that the only way to face this is together.
The Secret Book of Flora Lea by Patti Callahan Henry
A beautifully woven tale of mystery and history, The Secret Book of Flora Lea will captivate readers with its rich descriptions and emotional depth. It’s perfect for those who enjoy stories transporting them to another time and place.
Goodreads rates this 4.07, but I gave it 5/5, and wish I could have offered 6/5.
The Hike by Lucy Clarke
Clarke’s gripping adventure story, The Hike, is perfect for those who love the great outdoors. Her vivid writing and suspenseful plot will keep readers on the edge of their seats. No help, no cell coverage, no one to hear them scream.
She’s Not Sorry by Mary Kubica
She’s Not Sorry is a tense and thrilling mystery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. This is the New York Times bestseller that BookTok called “absolutely A-M-A-Z-I-N-G” (@hollylovesbooks1519). Kubica’s expert pacing and well-crafted suspense make this a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers.
Goodreads 3.81/5 —I liked it way more than that.
The Lost Coast by Jonathan and Jesse Kellerman
The Lost Coast, the riveting new Clay Edison thriller from the bestselling, acclaimed father-son duo who write “brilliant, page-turning fiction” (Stephen King). Cut loose from his former life at the coroner’s office, Clay Edison has set up shop as a private investigator. It’s steady, safe work. Until it isn’t.
Romance
The Love Haters by Katherine Center
It’s a thin line between love and love-hating in the newest laugh out loud, all the feels rom-com by New York Times bestselling author Katherine Center.
Katie Vaughn has been burned by love in the past—now she may be lighting her career on fire. She has two choices: wait to get laid off from her job as a video producer or, at her coworker Cole’s request, take a career-making gig profiling Tom “Hutch” Hutcheson, a Coast Guard rescue swimmer in Key West. The catch? Katie’s not exactly qualified. She can’t swim—but pretends that she can.
The Villain Edit by Laurie Devore
Emily Henry meets Fleabag…and The Bachelor! The Villain Edit is irresistibly sharp and sexy dramedy about a cynical romance novelist who goes on a reality show to revive her career, only to discover that while she may have just met the love of her life, the producers have turned her into the show’s villain.
Husbands & Lovers by Beatriz Williams
Two women—separated by decades and continents, and united by an exotic family heirloom—reclaim secrets and lost loves in this sweeping novel (Husbands & Lovers) from the New York Times bestselling author of The Summer Wives.
The Breakaway by Jennifer Weiner
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner comes a warmhearted and empowering new novel about love, family, friendship, secrets, and a life-changing journey.
The Breakaway is a delightful blend of romance and humor. Her engaging writing style and relatable characters make this a fun and heartwarming read. It’s perfect for anyone who has ever been a fan of something or someone.
Goodreads 5/5. One of my favorite reads of the year!
Not Here to Make Friends by Jodi McAlister
This book is what The New York Times calls “a full-on villain romance novel, filled with lying, scheming and blazingly tumultuous sex,” as a conniving reality show contestant dead set on being the perfect TV villain battles with her estranged best friend/showrunner for control on set.
What follows is a highly entertaining clash between morally grey frenemies, and a steamy, drama-filled romance that would make for compelling viewing on the small screen.
Goodreads 3.66/5.
Someone Else’s Shoes by Jojo Moyes
Moyes delivers another touching and thought-provoking novel with Someone Else’s Shoes. Her ability to create complex, empathetic characters makes this book a standout. It’s a perfect choice for readers who appreciate stories about personal growth and resilience.
Goodreads 3.96/5.
Birding with Benefits by Sarah Dubb
An enlightening and entertaining look at the world of birdwatching. Dubb’s passion for her subject shines through in Birding with Benefits, making it a fascinating read for nature lovers and those curious about this peaceful hobby.
Thrillers
You Belong Here by Megan Miranda
Beckett Bowery never thought she’d return to Wyatt Valley, a picturesque college town in the Virginia mountains steeped in tradition. Her roots there were strong: Beckett’s parents taught at the college, and she never even imagined studying anywhere else—until a tragedy her senior year ended with two local men dead, and her roommate on the run, never to be seen again.
For the last two decades, Beckett has done her best to keep her distance. Then her daughter, Delilah, secretly applies to Wyatt College and earns a full scholarship, and Beckett can only hope that her lingering fears are unfounded. But deep down she knows that Wyatt Valley has a long memory, and that the past isn’t the only dangerous thing in town.
The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
Unger’s masterful storytelling and complex characters make The New Couple in 5B an “unputdownable” read. Her ability to weave intricate plots will keep readers hooked from beginning to end. It’s a perfect gift for mystery and suspense lovers.
Goodreads gives this 3.63/5, but I gave it a 5/5 rating.
Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda
Daughter of Mine is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing until the end. Miranda’s intricate plotting and suspenseful storytelling make this a perfect choice for fans of dark, twisty tales.
“Her father was the town detective. Her mother is the most notorious criminal. The secrets of Mirror Lake are coming to the surface…and changing everything.”
Goodreads 3.96/5.
Dark Angel by John Sandford
This thriller will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sandford’s gripping narrative and well-developed characters make this a must-read for suspense and crime fiction fans. Dark Angel is a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
Goodreads 4.22/5. I scored it a bit less than that.
Book Lovers Gift Guide Items
I don’t know about you, but there are four things I need when I settle in to read a good book:
- Tumbler for my drink
- Cozy blanket
- Reading pillow
- My favorite magnetic bookmark
Does the person you’re shopping for prefer e-books? Gift them a Kindle!
Do they prefer to read physical books? How about a rechargeable book light or thumb-ring page holder?
Bonus Books
While you’re at it, how about stocking up on your travel books? We have two that are at the top of our reading list.
First is 100 Things to Do in West Virginia Before You Die, by none other than yours truly and my longtime classmate and bestie, Angie Richards. Use this as a bucket list to see the beautiful Mountain State and explore lesser-known gems great for road-tripping and first-timers.
The book actually has 240 items to cross off your list.
Second, the newest Central Florida outdoorsy book, Hiking Central Florida by M. Timothy O’Keefe, will be released in September 2024 and will introduce you to arguably the best region in Florida.
“Covering the area from Ocala to State Road 60 near Lake Wales and Yeehaw Junction—and also embracing the northern stretch of the Florida Trail in the Ocala National Forest and the Bulow Plantation/Bulow Creek hike on the Atlantic coast—this user-friendly guide takes you from short family hikes in places such as Canaveral National Seashore, to backpackers’ delights. It provides all the information you need to make the most of exploring Central Florida by foot.”
Books: The Best Gift
There you have it—a comprehensive guide to gifts that will delight any book lover. From enthralling novels to essential reading accessories, you’re now equipped to find the perfect present for your literary-obsessed loved one.
Happy gifting!
Need more gift ideas? Check out our holiday gift guide.
These books were sent to me for the purpose of writing this post.
Opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased.