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Books for a tired Mom (that I actually finished!)
21
items These are some of my favorite books that held my short attention span (while parenting a 3 year old). Mostly thrillers and fantasies but a sprinkle of other less popular but equally as beautiful
Sections
6
Psychological Thrillers/Mysteries
Historical Fiction
Romantasy
Romance Fiction
Dystopia
Non-fiction
Psychological Thrillers/Mysteries
OMG. This book messed with my head but in the best way possible. I was on the edge of my seat all the way through.
Pretty Girls: A Novel - Karin Slaughter
I haven’t read much with paranormal themes but I loved this book. Womanhood and witches? Say less.
Something in the Walls - Daisy Pearce : r/horrorlit - Reddit
This book was a good singleton book. A nice clean end and not entirely predictable. The author had me second guessing “who done it” a couple of times. A good, easy read!
21 Willow Lane: New 2026 Psychological Thriller
I got this book from a blind date with a book and was pleasantly surprised. This book wrestles with believing your loved one is capable of doing something heinous and loving them regardless. The themes of forgiveness and healing are palpable and beau...
The Good Son by Jacquelyn Mitchard - Goodreads
Now this is the kind of twist I need. Most thrillers seem like the twists are easily recognizable. But I was so concerned for the narrator until I realized what was happening… and then I gasped. My brain hurt a little, but in a good way. Amazing.
Sometimes I Lie by Alice Feeney | Goodreads
Historical Fiction
A beautiful historical fiction book. I felt drawn into another world. I couldn’t put it down.
The Nightingale: A Novel by Kristin Hannah
I clearly love reading about strong women because Alina is definitely strong. This story made me bawl my eyes out. Hang on!
The Things We Cannot Say: WWII Historical Novel
This was such a sweet novel about sisterhood. I loved each of the women and their stories. I would read this again a million times.
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
Romantasy
I hesitate to put this in (and in romantasy) because I feel this book is so much more than that. And I know the series is wildly popular. But this book is perhaps that best book I’ve ever read. The themes of PTSD and mental health are strong and rele...
A Court of Silver Flames (A Court of Thorns)
Romance Fiction
I was intrigued by this book after seeing a trailer for the TV series (I love Jennifer Garner) and it did not disappoint. Different from my normal reads of thriller and fantasy but wonderful, nonetheless. An emotional, feel good book about love and f...
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
Make sure you have a day to recuperate from reading this book. It is the most beautiful, emotional book I’ve ever read. And I will never pick it up again. 🤣 but everyone needs to read it at least once.
The Last Letter - Yarros, Rebecca
I struggle with romance novels because sometimes, they’re TOO corny. But this book, and Tessa Bailey, are delightful. The VERY open door romance did not overshadow Tessa’s writing and ability to immerse you into the story. It held my attention and ma...
Fangirl Down (Big Shots, #1) by Tessa Bailey | Goodreads
I have to admit - I didn’t like this book as much as Fangirl Down. It felt like the same story line. But the way Tessa Bailey writes (I know I’m repeating myself) keeps me hooked! It was an easy read, predictable but sweet.
The Au Pair Affair (Big Shots, #2) by Tessa Bailey | Goodreads
Ohhhh how I loved this book. It was sweet. And nostalgic. And I resonated so much with Alice. I cried and laughed and loved every page.
One Golden Summer: Fortune, Carley: 9780593638910 - Amazon.com
There is no conventional plot line or trope to this. It is a fictional book about grief. And it is beautiful. I didn’t feel bored. It felt warm and lovely. (And of course, sad).
Forever, Interrupted: A Novel: Reid, Taylor Jenkins
So, I found out I was supposed to read this book BEFORE I read One Golden Summer. But let me tell you… it did not ruin it one bit. I was still so enthralled in the story. Carley Fortune’s writing is so captivating. And her ability to tie the two stor...
Every Summer After: Fortune, Carley: 9780593438534
Dystopia
Hunger Games is popular obviously but Sunrise in the Reaping is superior. Haymitch’s story is heartbreaking and beautiful. And I love Suzanne Collins.
Sunrise on the Reaping (Hunger Games)
I love dystopian novels. This one was a little slow start for me (I sometimes struggle with world building) but it is so good. The systems and characters are beautifully written.
Red Rising Saga by Pierce Brown
OH. MY. GOD. I’ll admit. It took me a while to finish this book. I kept putting off finishing it because it felt like the same old tropes. I’m sorry I ever doubted you, Pierce. This book was amazing. 10/10.
Golden Son (Red Rising Saga, #2) by Pierce Brown
Non-fiction
As a counselor, this book is incredible for understanding how trauma affects our bodies and our healing. 10/10. No notes.
The Body Keeps the Score: Brain & Body Healing
The way this book is written makes me feel like I was in the therapy sessions. I was so engrossed by the stories of these people and their lives that I forgot it was non-fiction. Such a beautiful telling of how everyone’s lives differ and how we heal...
Good Morning, Monster: Five Heroic Stories