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Books I Always Recommend
24
items I am a voracious reader who loves historical fiction, literary fiction, magic realism, biographies and memoirs. Here are my favorite ones.
Sections
5
Books That Made Me Cry
Holiday Reads
Memoir
Must Read
Historical Fiction
Books That Made Me Cry
If you’ve ever read a book that made you laugh, cry, or just feel everything a little more deeply, you know how special those stories can be. This list is full of books that hit you right in the heart and stay with you long after you’ve closed them.
I have not cried as much reading any other book! Paul Kalanithi, a neurosurgeon diagnosed with terminal cancer, reflects on his life, work, and impending death with extraordinary depth and honesty. The transition from doctor to patient is particularl...
When Breath Becomes Air
This one will shatter you. Four college friends navigate life, but it's Jude—a brilliant, damaged soul—who stays with you. His story is raw, unflinching, and achingly human.
A Little Life
Lou and Will—a quirky caretaker and a man paralyzed by an accident—develop an unexpected bond. Their love is beautiful yet heartbreaking, and the choices they make will leave you in pieces.
Me Before You
Set against Afghanistan’s turbulent history, this story of friendship, betrayal, and redemption is unforgettable. The relationship between Amir and Hassan will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
The Kite Runner
The sacrifices and enduring bond between Mariam and Laila, two women from different backgrounds, is heart-wrenching. Their shared struggle against oppression and violence pulls at the heartstrings.
A Thousand Splendid Suns
Holiday Reads
This easy breezy read is perfect for the holiday season. Pick it up especially if you enjoy magical realism.
Before the Coffee Gets Cold
This is a charming and heartwarming novel that follows the story of a young woman, Akari, who, after a personal loss, finds solace and a sense of purpose working in a small, local library. Through her interactions with the library's diverse patrons, ...
What You Are Looking For Is in the Library
An absolute page-turner! Liane's writing is marvelous.
The Husband's Secret
A book that celebrates female friendships. Well-crafted story that makes for a perfect holiday read.
Someone Else's Shoes: A Novel
A great read because it effortlessly blends humor, heartfelt moments, and sharp wit to create a compelling story about the complexities of relationships and self-discovery.
Funny Story
Memoir
This memoir offers a unique mix of wisdom, humor, and life lessons, drawing on McConaughey’s personal experiences and philosophies to inspire readers to embrace the highs and lows of life.
Greenlights
This transformative memoir chronicles Elizabeth Gilbert’s year-long journey of self-discovery, offering readers a deeply personal exploration of love, spirituality, and the pursuit of happiness.
Eat, Pray, Love: A Journey Across 3 Countries
A beautifully honest memoir that makes you sad because he's no more and he seemed so full of joy. I read the book and then listened to the audiobook narrated by himself.
Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing
A delightful journey through food, family, and culture, Tucci’s memoir celebrates the power of cooking and dining in shaping his identity, with heartfelt stories and delicious recipes.
Taste: My Life Through Food
A beautifully written reflection on the city of Istanbul, Pamuk’s memoir intertwines personal history, cultural heritage, and the city’s complexities, offering a poetic exploration of place and identity.
Istanbul: Memories of a City
Must Read
A phenomenal book with multiple layers that will make you pause, put it down, and think about what you just read. At its heart, it is about the health of a modern marriage but has so many more layers dealing with relationships, emotions, and being tr...
Wellness: A Novel
One of the best books I read this year. It's a long but very gripping.
The Covenant of Water
A very poignant book on mental health. I haven't seen the topic dealt with in a much better way! Do read.
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine
Historical Fiction
This novel tells the story of Selene, the daughter of Cleopatra and Mark Antony, who is taken captive by the Romans and struggles to find her place in a world where her family’s power has been overthrown. Moran’s vivid historical setting and strong c...
Cleopatra's Daughter
If you love reading historical fiction and are intrigued by India or Indian mythology, this book is for you!
The Palace of Illusions
Set in ancient Egypt, this novel explores the rise of Queen Nefertiti, told from the perspective of her younger sister, Mutnodjmet. Moran skillfully weaves together historical facts and fiction to portray the intrigue and ambition that shaped one of ...
Nefertiti: A Novel (Egyptian Royals Collection ...
This gripping novel delves into the life of Mary Boleyn, King Henry VIII's mistress, and the fierce rivalry between her and her sister, Anne Boleyn. Gregory’s vivid portrayal of the Tudor court brings to life the intrigue and betrayal that marked thi...
The Other Boleyn Girl
Set during the Wars of the Roses, this novel follows Elizabeth Woodville, the wife of King Edward IV, as she fights to protect her family’s claim to the throne. Gregory offers a compelling portrayal of love, power, and the relentless pursuit of royal...
The White Queen
Insightful read about the woman who gave the world the famous wax statues
Madame Tussaud: A Novel of the Revolution