The Reader's Couch

I Read 25 Contemporary Books in January (Romance, Thrillers, Literary Fiction) + Early Spring/Summer Picks

Sharing my January reading wrap-up covering 25 contemporary books read as both a coping mechanism during a heavy month and as advance reading for upcoming spring and summer 2026 reading guides. I revisit seven books from a January reading vlog (due to poor video/audio quality) and then discuss 18 additional books not previously shared, grouped by vibe: romance, mysteries/thrillers, and literary/general fiction.Romance highlights include How to Write a Love Story (Catherine Walsh), Toe to Toe (Fallon Ballard), The Starter Ex (Mia Sosa), No Matter What (Cara Bastone), and Abby Jimenez’s The Night We Met (the author’s best). Mystery/thriller picks include The PI and Mash Detective Agency (J.D. Brinkworth), Everyone in This Bank Is a Thief (Benjamin Stevenson), Pomona Afton Can Totally Catch a Killer (Bellamy Rose), Missing Sister (Joshilyn Jackson), and Tana French’s The Keeper. Literary/general fiction discussed includes A Lake Effect (Cynthia Sweeney), the literary horror ghost story Valley Eventful Ghost (Kim Fu), Celestial Lights (Cecile/Cecily Pin), and Almost Life (Kiran Millwood Hargrave).

Celebrity Book Club Picks: Worth Your Time or Not? | An Honest Book Audit

Let's talk about the January 2026 picks from major celebrity book clubs and whether they are worth your time! We will be talking about 'Read with Jenna', 'Reese's Book Club', 'Sonny Reads', 'Good Morning America Book Club', and 'Oprah’s Book Club'. From compelling memoirs and suspenseful thrillers to exciting new Gen Z picks, I'm sharing my honest take on what’s worth reading, what’s not, and recommending a few new books they could have selected instead. So tune in for insightful commentary, book recommendations, and join the conversation in the comments!WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/9oaJW7uNjww BOOK CLUB LINKS For all things book club, check out my hub: https://bibliolifestyle.com/category/book-club/ Read With Jenna Book Club List Complete Guide + Monthly Updates: https://bibliolifestyle.com/jenna-bush-hager-book-club/ Reese’s Book Club Complete Archive (YA & Adult): https://bibliolifestyle.com/reese-witherspoon-book-club-list/ GMA Book Club Picks Complete List: https://bibliolifestyle.com/good-morning-america-book-club/ Oprah’s Book Club Complete List: https://bibliolifestyle.com/oprahs-book-club-list/ JANUARY RECOMMENDATIONS Want more January 2026 book recommendations? Start here: https://bibliolifestyle.com/books-to-read-in-january-2026/ WINTER READING GUIDE For The BiblioLifestyle 2026 Winter Reading Guide (curated PDF magazine guide + expanded guide) start here: https://bibliolifestyle.com/2026-winter-reading-guide/

Wicked for Good Ending Explained: All The Changes, Easter Eggs, & Hidden Secrets You Missed!

The Wicked for Good ending changes EVERYTHING from the Broadway musical. So I'm doing a Wicked for Good ending explained, revealing seven essential details you need to know and discussing the significant changes from the Broadway musical to the screen adaptation. I'll also explore character motivations, talk about new songs, highlight Easter eggs you might have missed, themes, and speculate on the possibility of a 'Wicked 3'. You'll also hear about the differences between Gregory Maguire's original novel, the musical, and the film. So join me as I break down everything you need to know about this emotional and transformative final chapter.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1R_iTpFMvIE

2025 Goodreads Choice Awards Predictions and Hot Takes | New Releases, Reads & More!

Join Francesca and I as we get into the 2025 Goodreads Choice Awards, sharing not only our personal votes but also our predictions for the eventual winners. We cover every category, from fiction to romance, and even surprise categories! Plus, discover this week's hot new book releases, our current reads, and what we've been watching. It's jam-packed with exciting bookish content, discussions, and a whole lot of fun! 🍿📚✨Watch on YouTube: https://youtube.com/live/hsIst3lu70s

9 Books I Can't Stop Recommending (Must-Read Books)

I'm sharing nine must-read book recommendations that I can't stop raving about to friends, family, and even strangers. From emotional rollercoasters to perfect romances and mind-bending fantasies, these books have left a lasting impact on me. So get comfy, pull out your TBR app, and find your next favorite read!Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/TYka112G6zI