In The Wedding People, Alison Espach tells the story of Phoebe Stone, a woman in the throes of a personal crisis who checks into the Cornwall Inn in Newport, Rhode Island, hoping to escape her past. Her plans take an unexpected turn when she becomes entangled in the chaos of a wedding party. Through unexpected friendships and experiences, Phoebe learns to embrace life’s complexities. Espach's novel blends humor and emotional depth, exploring themes of self-discovery, renewal, and the unpredictability of human connections.
Alison Espach is an American novelist recognized for her insightful portrayals of personal relationships and emotional growth. Born in 1984, her debut novel, The Adults, received critical praise for its sharp wit and depth. She followed with Notes on Your Sudden Disappearance and, in 2024, The Wedding People, which became a New York Times bestseller. Espach also serves as an associate professor of English at Providence College, contributing to the literary community through both her writing and teaching.
Helena Hunting's 'Pucked' is a steamy romantic comedy that centers around the unexpected relationship between Violet Hall and Alex Waters, a star hockey player for the NHL. Blurring the lines between attraction and genuine connection, the story unfolds with humor, heart, and a fair share of chaos. Violet is witty and fiercely independent, while Alex is charming yet surprising in his vulnerability. Their chemistry is magnetic and drives the narrative with energy and passion. Themes of self-discovery and the struggles of navigating love in the limelight are skillfully explored. Hunting's engaging writing style offers readers a fast-paced, entertaining escape into a world that is as hilarious as it is heartfelt.
by Emily Henry
In Great Big Beautiful Life, Emily Henry tells the story of Alice Scott, a writer tasked with penning the biography of the elusive heiress Margaret Ives. As Alice delves into Margaret's past, she uncovers secrets that challenge her perceptions and force her to confront her own life choices. The novel explores themes of identity, legacy, and the complexities of human relationships. Henry's engaging prose and well-drawn characters create a compelling narrative about self-discovery and the stories we tell ourselves.
Series: Don Tillman (#1)
The Rosie Project follows Don Tillman, a brilliant but socially awkward genetics professor who decides to find a wife using a scientifically rigorous questionnaire. His carefully ordered life is disrupted when he meets Rosie, a spontaneous and unconventional woman who doesn't fit any of his criteria. As they embark on a quest to find her biological father, Don is forced to confront the limitations of logic in matters of the heart. Charming, funny, and heartfelt, the novel explores neurodiversity, love, and personal growth. Graeme Simsion’s debut became a global bestseller, beloved for its quirky protagonist and emotional depth.
Inspired by Little Women, this tender family saga follows William Waters, a lonely college basketball player, and the four closely bonded Padavano sisters. As William is pulled into their vibrant, chaotic world, buried traumas threaten to upend everything. Spanning decades, Hello Beautiful explores love, loss, mental illness, and the ties that both bind and break us. Ann Napolitano crafts a deeply emotional story about forgiveness and self-discovery, illuminating how family—whether biological or chosen—shapes our sense of self and belonging. It’s a heartfelt portrait of resilience and the enduring need for connection.