Giftable Books

For Your Mother-in-Law

The Women of Wild Hill

Author: Kirsten Miller

Year: 2025

Genre: Fantasy

More info: Best-selling author of The Change

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I love that authors this year are writing badass women who are fighting the patriarchy. Kirsten Miller tackles that theme with this tale of modern witches on Wild Hill, Long Island, where the ghost of a witch burned at the stake barred everyone from her land until Sadie from Scotland arrived.

For generations, Sadie’s descendants thrived on Wild Hill as each generation’s power grew. Now, Brigid, Phoebe, and Sibyl have been called back to Wild Hill to deliver a reckoning to mankind – and specifically the billionaires who treat the earth like their playground with little consequence for the disastrous impact on people and planet.

Brigid can see death, Phoebe can heal with her plants and the sisters have always been close until their mother’s untimely death when they were ripped apart. Decades have passed without the sisters speaking and without them stepping foot on Wild Hill. Phoebe’s daughter, Sibyl, knows nothing of her heritage, her mother’s powers, or even that she has an aunt.

But when they are all called back by their descendants, they must work through their differences and learn to trust one another to change the trajectory of the world.

Why Kirsten loves it

I could not put this story down. If you liked The Change, this is set in the same world – with small callbacks to that plot – but on a much larger scale. I was blown away by Kirsten’s ability to weave such an intricate story that was both intimate and global in scheme. A favorite of the year for me without a doubt. #gifted by William Morrow.

Find this book in: Best Fantasy Books of 2025 / Novels About Weather / Best Witch Books / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025

For Your Dad

The Road to Tender Hearts

Author: Annie Harnett

Year: 2025

Genre: Fiction

More info: May 2026 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick

Age Range: 18+

Plot

PJ Halliday won a million dollars in the lottery and has done nothing since other than sit in the bar and mourn his bad luck- and he has had his fair share. He lost a daughter, had a terrible divorce, and his health is steadily declining (which is not helped by the fact that he is an alcoholic). To top it off, his ex-wife is marrying his best friend, and they are headed to Alaska for four months- alone.

When PJ sees an obituary of his old rival, he decides to head to the Tender Hearts Retirement Community across the country to win back his high school first crush. It just so happens that he is now the guardian of two young orphans and a cat who can predict death. Oh, and did I mention that he cannot drive because he had his license revoked after his last DUI? Enter his daughter as the driver!

Trigger Warnings

Death of a parent, murder, suicide, drug use

Why Jackie loves it

Although this book deals with a lot of serious topics, it does it in a way that is heartwarming and funny. I laughed my way through this book, which is a series of one disaster after another. On the surface, this book should not work; however, it is a literary wonder. I absolutely loved this poignant, wonderful book. It is one of my favorites of the year, and you will hear me talk about it!

Find this book in: Novels About Addiction / Beach Reads 2025 / Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Books About Road Trips / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025

For Your Father-in-Law

I See You’ve Called in Dead

Author: John Kenney

Year: 2025

Genre: Literary Fiction

More info: Instant National Bestseller, Thurber Prize Winning Author
USA Today April Pick, October 2025 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Bud is an obituary writer who has not gotten over the fact that his wife had an affair and left him. His life since has not been going well, he’s in a writing rut, and then he gets drunk and accidentally publishes his own obituary.

He cannot work but he also cannot be fired since you cannot fire a dead man. Now, he must learn to live the life that he has been given. He takes his best friend, Tim with him to see if he can learn the meaning of life by attending the funerals of strangers.

Trigger Warnings

Death

Why Jackie loves it

This is such a well-written book with dry humor that had me laughing out loud. Bud reminds me of any man who is going through a rough time. His story is beautiful and poignant.

Find this book in: Fiction With a Funeral / Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books

For Your Sister

The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau

Author: Kristin Harmel

Year: June 17, 2025

Genre: Historical Fiction

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Colette Marceau is a descendant of Robin Hood. She learned from a young age to take from the rich and cruel and give to those in need. This family motto helped the jewel thieves fund the French resistance in the Second World War.

In 1942, Colette’s mother stole a pair of bracelets from a Nazi’s mistress that had belonged to her Jewish friends who were deported to Auschwitz in the hope that she could return them one day. She sewed one bracelet into the hem of Collette’s and her little sister’s nightgowns. The night her mother was arrested, her little sister went missing along with a diamond bracelet.

Now, seventy years later, the bracelet has turned up in a Boston museum, and Colette finally has the chance to learn what happened to her sister and bring the murderer to justice.

Trigger Warnings

Murder, Death, Antisemitism

Why Jackie loves it

Why is this the first Kristen Harmel book I have read?! I can tell you it will not be the last. This book grabbed me from the first page and took me on a thrilling, emotional ride. There were so many aspects of this story that came together beautifully in the end. This is a powerful story that has so many true components, I found myself crying and smiling throughout. Thank you Simon & Schuster Audio #gifted.

Find this book in: Jewelry Novels / World War II Books / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books

For Your Brother

Life, and Death, and Giants

Author: Ron Rindo

Year: 2025

Genre: Literary Fiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Gabriel Fisher weighed 18 lbs at birth and, from a young age, has extraordinary talents. He can walk by eight months and has an intrinsic way of communicating with animals. He was raised by his brother after his mother, a banished Amish woman, died in childbirth. When his brother dies, he goes back to live with his Amish grandparents.

By the time Gabriel is full-grown, he is nearly eight feet tall with incredible strength and agility. When the local football coach spots him working in the fields, his entire life changes. Thus begins an incredible journey of Gabriel Fisher.

Trigger Warnings

Death in Childbirth

Why Jackie loves it

I love a unique book that is unlike anything I have ever read before. The writing was beautiful, and the story gave me a glimpse into the life of the Amish. This story is touching and poignant with the feel of a tall tale. #gifted by Macmillan Audio

Find this book in: Giftable Books

For Your Grandmother

Vera Wong’s Guide to Snooping on a Dead Man

Author: Jesse Q. Sutano

Year: 2025

Genre: Mystery

More info: Vera Wong #2

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range:15+

Plot

Vera has been living her best life since the body was found in her teahouse. Vera has maintained relationships with everyone from the first book. Her son even has a girlfriend, officer Selena Gray. Vera is happy to help cat sit at Tilly and Selena’s place, and it’s not her fault that she finds a briefcase filled with cases, even if she does have to spend 15 minutes picking the lock open.

And if one of those files just happens to be the body of a friend of a troubled young woman, how can she not help everyone and solve the case of his murder? As she investigates further, it seems nobody is telling the truth

Trigger Warnings

Spoiler: physical and emotional abuse

Why Jackie loves it

I felt like I learned so much about Vera in this book, and I love her even more than I did after the first book. This book deals with more serious topics but does so in a sensitive way. #gifted

Find this book in: Best Beach Reads 2025 / Giftable Books

Books as Gifts For Book Lovers in Your Life

For Your Book Club

Broken Country

Author: Clare Leslie Hall

Year: 2025

Genre: Historical Mystery Romance
More Info: March 2025 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick
June 2025 Beyond the Bookends Bookclub Pick

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Set in 1968 and about a decade prior, this mesmerizing book examines both the loss of a child and the paths not taken. Beth and her husband Frank are still reeling from the unexpected loss of their son, when Beth’s first love, Gabriel Wolfe, comes back to town newly divorced with his own son in tow.

After an accident on the farm, Beth finds herself entwined in Gabriel‘s life once more. Between flashbacks to their former romance and previews of a murder trial, the novel explores the love Beth has for both men.

Trigger Warnings

Death of a Child

Why Kirsten loves it

Hall paints such a vivid picture and explores Beth’s feelings so well that I forgot I was reading fiction. I cried on numerous occasions and was left wanting more.

It reminds me of Where the Crawdads Sing in some ways and The Light We Lost in others. The mystery of who was shot and why was a masterful narrative choice that kept the story moving at a clip. I would give this novel six stars if I could. I truly couldn’t put it down. Gifted by Simon & Schuster

Why Jackie Loves it

This beautifully crafted story depicts lost loves and loss in a way that is still approachable and readable. Kirsten and I cannot wait to discuss this book with our book club in June. Kirsten read the book, and I listened to it. The audio version was powerful and I highly recommend.

Adaptation

Before the book even came out, Reese Witherspoon’s production company Hello Sunshine snapped up the production rights. It will be created with Sony’s 3000 Pictures.

Find this book in: Best Historical Fiction Books / Best British Books / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Books Set in the 1960s / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2025 / Best Books of 2025

For Your Child’s Teacher

Culpability

Author: Bruce Holsinger

Year: 2025

Genre: Fiction

More info: July 2025 Oprah Book Club Pick

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Are you looking for a summer read that doubles as a thought-provoking book club pick? Look no further than Culpability.

The story opens with the five members of the Cassidy-Shaws en route to a lax tournament when they are involved in a devastating accident in their self-driving car. Now the family is headed to the Chesapeake Bay for a week to recoup before facing the aftermath of the accident back at home.

But each family member is hiding secrets about the accident. Noah, our protagonist, is grappling with being distracted in the passenger seat when his 17-year-old son, Charlie, is behind the wheel. Lorelei, his wife, is an expert in the field of AI morality, and she was the one insistent that the car they were in was safe.

Scattered throughout the book are interviews on the effects of AI and quotes from Lorelei’s fictional book, which explores the moral consequences of machines without morals. Each family member is reacting differently to the accident, and their week on vacation has the power to push them together or drag them apart.

Why Kirsten loves it

This novel ponders the very real human culpability when AI is involved. And it’s not just examined via the autonomous car — bots, drones, and even smart home systems are examined with a critical eye throughout the story. I love how Lorelei and Noah’s relationship was depicted – while they struggle throughout these events, it was refreshing to see a man supporting a woman who is a rockstar in her field.

Holsinger was able to frame the abstract complexities of the consequences of AI into a compelling story that was as entertaining as it was demanding of deeper study. I hope this book gets into the hands of readers everywhere so that we can all ponder the message within. #gifted by Spiegel and Grau

Find this book in: Thought-Provoking Books / Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books

For the Audiobook Lover

The Safari

Author: Jaclyn Goldis

Year: 2025

Genre: Thriller

Age: 18+

Plot

When Odelia travels to a posh resort with her grown children, she’s on cloud 9, about to marry her much younger fiancé. But her children each take issue with the match, as well as their mother’s recent actions running the family business. When she turns up dead, the story plunges back in time to a few days before, where each guest and even a staff member narrates the story and each has a reason to want Odelia dead.

Family secrets are revealed, shocks are in store, and with a full cast of audio narrators, this story is perfect for reading or listening by the pool.

Why Kirsten loves it

After a string of bad thrillers, I finally found a great one! With so many twists in the book, I found it impossible to guess them all! I read this during a mid-spring heatwave and realized the South African safari resort setting made for perfect hot weather bingeing. #gifted by Simon and Schuster Audio

Find this book in: Novels About Africa / Beach Reads 2025 / Best Thriller Books of 2025 / Giftable Books

Books for Presents by Personality

For the Art Lover

Mona’s Eyes

Author: Thomas Schlesser
Translator: Hildegarde Serle

Year: English in 2025

Genre: Literary Fiction

More info: International Bestseller, Barnes & Noble 2025 Book of the Year

Age Range: 14+

Plot

When ten-year-old Mona has an unexpected episode of blindness, the doctors are afraid that she may be losing her sight permanently. Mona’s grandfather, Henry, is afraid that Mona will have a life of darkness, so he decides to fill her life with beauty.

Over the next year, rather than take her to a therapist, Henry takes Mona to see a different masterpiece in one of Paris’s museums every Wednesday afternoon. This novel takes you on a journey through 52 pieces of art from the Louvre to the Beaubourg and Musee Orsay. Through the art, Henry teaches Mona about love and loss.

Why Jackie loves it

The descriptions in this book are unlike anything I have ever read. I felt like I had a class on art history with a wonderful and insightful teacher. This is a debut novel that is masterful. The relationship between Mona and her grandfather is so special. I listened to this book but the foldout dust jacket of the physical book has all 52 pieces of art. #gifted by PRH Audio

Find this book in: Books in Translation / Books Set in Museums/ Novels About Art and Artists / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025

For the Animal Lover

Raising Hare

Author: Chloe Dalton

Year: 2025

Genre: Memoir

More info: International Bestseller

Age Range: 14+

Plot

During the Covid lockdown, Chloe discovered a leveret, aka a baby hare, and decided to rescue it from death. She nursed it to health, working hard not to domesticate it, and watched it grow and thrive, eventually having babies of its own in her backyard in the English countryside.

Why Kirsten loves it

This cozy read is a bestseller in the UK for a reason. Chloe’s narrative was soothing and interesting as she details the hurdles and highlights of rescuing a leveret and watching it mature. I felt her compassion and care in her narrative — it gave me new respect for these wild creatures. #gifted by Penguin Random House

Find this book in: Nonfiction Books About Animals / Best Beach Reads 2025 / Giftable Books / Best Nonfiction Books of 2025 / Feel Good Nonfiction Books

For the Influencer Obsessed

Everyone is Lying to You

Author: Jo Piazza

Year: 2025

Genre: Thriller

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Lizzie and Bex were best friends until Bex disappeared after college graduation. Now, fifteen years later, Bex has transformed into a “traditional” wife and influencer with millions of followers, a ranch, a husband named Gray, and a brood of children. When Bex calls Lizzie to invite her to do an exclusive interview, it may be the big break her career needs.

Curious about not just the exclusive, but also why Bex abruptly ended their friendship, Lizzie heads to the MomBomb conference to reconnect with her. But when Gray is found murdered and Bex goes missing, Lizzie finds herself in a world of momfluencers and backstabbing.

Trigger Warnings

Infertility

Why Kirsten loves it

A #tradwife murder mystery from the amazing Jo Piazza? Yes, please!!! Jo is a genre-shape shifter who can effortlessly amp up the suspense factor while pulling back the curtain of influencing. I’m not sure what impressed me more, that BANANAS ending or the social commentary on Tradwives and the lies we are all sold by the influencers of the world.

This is the chocolate-covered bonbon of a book that only Jo could write. I guarantee you will be on the edge of your seat as you reevaluate all you know about influencers. #gifted by Dutton

Why Jackie Loves it

I do not know how Jo does it! Every book she writes is directly on the pulse of what is going on in the world. This book had EVERYTHING I could have hoped for from Jo and more. The book is fast-paced, the characters are so much fun to read and the social commentary is just beyond. #gifted

Find this book in: Beach Reads 2025 / Best Thriller Books of 2025 / Books Inspired by The Life of a Showgirl / Giftable Books

For the Person You Don’t Know What to Give

My Friends

Author: Fredrik Backman

Year: 2025

Genre: Fiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

A group of teenagers spends their summer on an abandoned pier where they take solace in their friendship, as they dream of leaving their small town and difficult childhoods. From that friendship comes one of the most famous paintings in the world which, years later, is given to 18-year-old Louisa, an aspiring artist.

After receiving the unexpected item, and struggling with her own feelings of abandonment and homelessness, she embarks on a cross-country journey to find the story behind the painting. What follows is a deep, touching story, of teens forced to grow up too soon, found family, and finding the light in the darkest of times… told as only Backman can write it.

Trigger Warnings

Domestic Violence

Why Kirsten loves it

It took me ages to read this book because of the incredible ruminations on life, love, death, and friendship peppered throughout this treasure of a novel. Numerous times, I would read a sentence, pause, read it again, and then marinate on the token of wisdom that felt like a gift from Backman.

This is not a story to be rushed, but one to be savored. Resoundingly one of my favorites of the year, it’s Backman at his best. #gifted by Simon and Schuster

Find this book in: Books About Art / Friendship Books / Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books

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For the Foodie

The Family Recipe

Author: Carolyn Huynh

Year: 2025

Genre: Fiction
More info: June 2026 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Duc is the founder of a chain of sandwich shops around the country. He has 5 estranged adult children and a wife he has not seen in years. When he decides to retire, he gives conditions to his children. His four daughters must revitalize failing shops within a year, but his only son will inherit everything if he gets married. The catch? Whoever does it first wins the whole inheritance.

But the store each sibling is given unlocks bigger mysteries, and soon, everyone will learn the real reasons for this bazaar scheme and the secrets their mother and father kept hidden.

Trigger Warnings

Racism, Hate Crimes

Why Kirsten loves it

I love a sibling drama, but I was not expecting to fall in love with this story so deeply. I didn’t want it to end. I loved each sibling’s journey. I loved learning the back story between Duc and Evelyn…and I craved a Bánh Mì the entire time! Gifted by Simon & Schuster & Simon & Schuster Audio

Find this book in: Sibling Books / Books About Food / Best Beach Reads 2025 / Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Family Inheritance Novels / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025

For the Home Renovation Lover

The Chancellor’s Mansion: A Renovation of Family, Home, History, and Mystery

Author: Jamie Arty, Susannah Charleson

Year: 2025

Genre: Nonfiction

Age Range: 14+

Plot

This is the fantastic true story of William Townsend McCoun’s mansion built in Oyster Bay, Long Island. When Jamie and Frantz Arty bought the empty property, they decided to restore it to its former glory at the height of the pandemic. They made some amazing discoveries about the house’s history along the way.

Trigger Warnings

Slavery

Why Kirsten loves it

Inside this book, you’ll get to see photos inside of the home and Arty family’s life during the restoration process, but I loved how Arty also shares sketches and information about the former owners. I’ve never read a renovation story quite like this one that marries the newly learned house history with the renovation struggles along the way. I was immersed in the story and quickly started hunting down even more information about Jamie Arty and her gorgeous home.

Find this book in: Best Beach Reads 2025 / Giftable Books

Books to Gift based on Genre

For the Literary Fiction Lover

Heart the Lover

Author: Lily King

Year: 2025

Genre: Literary Fiction

More info: New York Times Bestselling Author of Writers & Lovers

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

This coming-of-age tale is told in three parts as our intrepid narrator (nicknamed Jordan) tells the story of her time in college, impacted by the relationships she has with Sam and Yash – best friends who let her into their off-campus world. Told with astounding insight with prose that will have you highlighting each page, Jordan’s college life is as mundane as it is monumental – especially in the decisions she makes after graduation.

As time progresses, Jordan shows us the beginnings of her marriage and early parenthood when an unexpected visitor comes to see her, and then a brief, but earthshattering few days in the future that collide with the ripple effects of her post-graduation choice.

Trigger Warnings

Cancer

Why Kirsten loves it

I started this book at 9:30 at night, forced myself to stop 2 hours in, and had it finished by 10 am the next morning. When I say I couldn’t put it down, I mean it. I was reading it while brushing my teeth, walking on the treadmill, and eventually I turned off notifications on my phone so I could devour this incandescent story without distraction.

I ran an emotional gauntlet while reading this story, and even at the 95% mark, I was still on pins and needles with so much anxiety I could scarcely breathe. It is a hauntingly beautiful tribute to the impact of first love. It would make an EXCELLENT book club book too, because I bet people will have FEELINGS about some of the choices our dear heroine made. #gifted by Grove Press.

Find this book in: Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Best Books for Book Club / Books Set in College / Books Inspired by The Life of A Showgirl / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025 / Literary Romance Novels

For the Romantic

Full Bloom

Author: Francesca Serritella

Year: 2025

Genre: Literary Fiction Romance

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Iris is fresh out of a break-up with the man she thought was going to marry, is facing stagnation in her job, and is stuck in life. She is desperately in need of a fresh start when she goes to her elderly neighbor and gets a custom perfume that has an almost magical effect on her body. With her newfound confidence, she gets a new account at work and attracts the attention of more men than ever before.

As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, she also finally addresses childhood trauma related to the death of her parents, her feelings toward her cousin (who has a drug addiction issue), and her quest to freeze her eggs so she can be a parent someday. Her custom perfume is the impetus for romantic entanglements that give her validation and create more drama than she can keep up with.

Is wearing the perfume and all its rewards worth the hassle? Should she go back to being boring old Iris? Can she figure out who she is at her core and, more importantly, what she wants out of life? And when she does, will she have the courage to reach for it? Each of these questions will be addressed when this book comes to a fantastic conclusion.

Trigger Warnings

Infertility, Fire

Why Kirsten loves it

My obsession with this book is real. I couldn’t put it down. The imagery was so beautifully written that I could picture each scene vividly in my mind as if I were watching a movie. The story is rich, the imagery is lush, and it’s easily one of my favorite books of the year. Gifted by Ballantine Books

Find this book in: Best Fiction Books of 2025 / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025 Literary Romance Novels

For the Romantasy Lover

Shield of Sparrows

Author: Devney Perry

Year: 2025

Genre: Fantasy Romance

More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller, In Development as a film with Amazon

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Princess Odessa is the Eldest daughter of the king of Quentis. Her younger sister, Mae, has been raised since birth to become the Sparrow- the one to marry the heir of Turah for a treaty. When the prince arrives, he chooses Odessa to be his bride-prize, and she has no choice but to agree. Her father asks her to spy on them and send information on how to find their capital city and orders her to kill the Guardian if she is given a chance.

Now Odessa and her two lady’s maids travel across the sea filled with deadly monsters as she tries to find her place in the new land filled with monsters. Odessa starts to feel a relationship with the people and is torn between her loyalty to her father and her new husband.

Why Jackie loves it

This is a slow-burn romance where the princess becomes more than a damsel in distress. It is filled with surprises, thrills, and deadly monsters at every turn of the page. I could not put it down.

Find this book in: Best Beach Reads 2025 / The Best Books Like Fourth Wing / The Best Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Best Fantasy Books of 2025 / Royal Fantasy Books

For the Sweet Fantasy Lover

The Enchanted Greenhouse

Author: Sarah Beth Durst

Year: 2025

Genre: Cozy Fantasy Romance

More info: The Spellshop #2

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

This is a standalone fantasy set in The Spellshop world. Terlu cast an illegal spell and created a sentient plant earning her a punishment of being turned into a wooden statue. But Terlu wakes up on an island of hundreds of magical greenhouses, having been awoken by the lone human inhabitant – a gardener, Yarrow. He’s brought her here to help her stop the enchanted greenhouses from failing. As she works to save the various plants, she begins to fall in love with Yarrow despite his grumpy exterior.

Why Kirsten loves it

Like her previous novel, this story is like a warm hug of a book. I read it in spring when my own garden began to bloom and it brought the magic of the season to life in a fun way. I adored the talking plants and the slow, sweet romance between the main characters. You don’t have to have read the previous book by any stretch, but there is a sweet check in on those characters at the end of this story.

Why Jackie loves it

I listened to this book and was capticated from the first moment. The characters are endearing and the descriptions of the food, the flowers, the magic, and the greenhouses felt like I was there. Kirsten’s description of the book being like a warm hug is perfect. It is such a feel good story that is perfect for all ages. My daughter was in the car listening with me and insisted we listen to the entire book together. Gifted by #Macmillanaudio

Find this book in: Isolation Novels / Beach Reads 2025 / Fiction Books About Gardens and Gardening

For the Fantasy Lover

Alchemy of Secrets

Author: Stephanie Garber

Year: 2025

Genre: Fantasy

More info: Bestselling author of Caraval, Adult Debut

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Holland St. James took a Folklore class that could not be found in any syllabus. If you heard about the class and could find it, your grade will appear on your transcript at the end of the semester. While other people in the class love the stories, Holland believes that they are real. She, after all, has a connection to one of the folklore tales.

When she goes to find the legendary Watch Man, she learns she will die in 36 hours unless she finds the Alchemical Heart, an almost impossible task. When she sees a man she is dating die exactly when the Watch Man predicted, she knows this is not a game. She must figure out who she can trust and who has thier own nepharious intentions.

Now Holland heads into the magical world of L.A. where the stories are coming to life and she is in a race against the clock for her life.

Why Jackie loves it

This contemporary fantasy is everything I love about Stephanie Garber, and more! I love the folklore that is woven throughout. I found it to be so unique and unlike other books I have read. The story is fast-paced and will have you on the edge of your seat. Although it is an adult fantasy, in my opinion, the content in the book is suitable for readers aged 14 and above.

Find this book in: Best Adult Fantasy Novels / Best Fantasy Books of 2025 / Stephanie Garber Books / Giftable Books / Best Books of 2025

For the Historical Fiction Lover

The Story She Left Behind

Author: Patti Callahan Henry

Year: 2025

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Beyond the Bookends Most Anticipated Book March 2025

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

In 1927, When Clara Harrington was 8 years old, her mother disappeared off the coast of South Carolina. Bronwyn Newcastle Fordham was an author renowned for the book she wrote when she was 12 years old. The follow-up to the book, written in her mother’s made-up language, sat untranslated because the dictionary disappeared along with Bronwyn.

Now in 1952, Clara is a mother and illustrator. She is contacted by Charlie Johnson in London, who claims to have a handwritten dictionary in her mother’s lost language. Clara must travel to London to retrieve the dictionary and finally get some answers.

She travels with her asthmatic daughter by boat only to arrive at the start of The Great Smog.

Why Jackie loves it

This book was more than I could have hoped for. It was absolutely captivating from the first word to the last. I listened and read this book at the same time because I could not get enough. I loved the story, but loved it even more when I found out that Bronwyn was based on the life and disappearance of Barbara Newhall Follett. There are also references to Beatrix Potter. This book is a must for any book lover. It reads like a love letter to language.

Find this book in: The Ultimate List of Books About Books / Beach Reads 2025 / Best Historical Fiction Books of 2025 / Best Books of 2025

For the Mystery Lover

Sisters in the Wind

Author: Angeline Boulley

Year: 2025

Genre: YA Fiction

More info: GMA YA Book Club Pick September 2025, Bestselling Author of Firekeeper’s Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 15+

Plot

Lucy Smith’s father died 5 years ago. Lucy has been on the run ever since rather than become a ward of the state. Her father had hoped that his new wife would love and care for Lucy when he was gone, but it quickly became clear that the new Mrs. Smith had no intentions of caring for Lucy.

Now, after a horrible “accident”, Lucy meets Mr. Jameson, who tells her that her father hid her Ojibwe heritage. She has a family she never knew about, including siblings and a grandmother. Lucy must now come to terms with who she really is and why her father hid it from her. This YA book is a mystery about a young woman claiming her heritage. #gifted

Trigger Warnings

Foster care, abuse, neglect, and drug use

Why Jackie loves it

Angeline Boulley is a master storyteller who weaves historical context into her novels. The characters in this book overlap with the characters from her other books. This story is heartbreaking and compelling from the first page. Lucy has a dark past, but her story is one of many children that is overlooked.

Find this book in: GMA Book Club List 2025 / Best Good Morning America Book Club Books / Best Books of 2025

Giftable Books for Teens

Persephone’s Curse

Author: Katrina Leno

Release Date: December 2, 2025

Genre: YA Fantasy

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range:14+

Plot

The four Farthing sisters have always been told that they are direct descendants of Persephone, the Goddess of the Dead. They never question the stories or why they live in a house with a 17-year-old ghost, Henry, in the attic.

When Winnie, the 16-year-old narrator, discovers that Evelyn, 18, is in love with Henry, she accidentally sends him to the underworld in fit of rage. Now there are more serious consequences to her actions. The sisters must figure out their real relationship to Persephone and see if it is possible to rescue Henry and stop the cataclysmic events that could destroy everything.

Why Jackie loves it

The four Farthing sisters are so different from each other, yet it feels very realistic. Their relationship is reminiscent of Little Women- there are even references to the characters from that book. The pacing of the book was fast-paced. I listened to this one and could not stop! #gifted PRH audio

Find this book in: Books About Sisters and Bonds of Sisterhood / Giftable Books/ Mythology Books

Giftable Books for Tweens

Candle Island

Author: Lauren Wolk

Year: 2025

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction

Age: 8+

Plot

Lucretia and her mother have moved to Candle Island, Maine, to keep her secret hidden. They didn’t know that the small coastal island had a bit of a turf-war problem in which the year-round inhabitants despised the summer folks and vice versa.

As Lucretia settles in, she befriends some locals, finds and cares for an osprey chick, paints in her barn, and explores the island. Everything sounded idyllic until some summer kids started making trouble for her and the burgeoning friendships. Can Lucreita find her inner strength and stand up to these bullies?

Why Kirsten loves it

I loved both the setting and the characters in this sweet summer novel. The osprey chick, the Maine coast, and the beautiful descriptions of the art enhanced the story of friendship, bravery, and standing up for what is right.

Find this book in: Best Books for 8-Year-Olds

Giving Festive Books as Christmas Gifts

The Gingerbread Bakery

Author: Laurie Gilmore

Year: 2025

Genre: Holiday Romance

More info: Dream Harbor #5

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Annie owns Dream Harbor’s Gingerbread Bakery, and she’s made a huge success of it. Now she’s even making a gingerbread cake for her best friend’s wedding. One of the groomsmen is Mac, her ex-boyfriend and owner of the local bar, who has just moved back.

Told in a dual timeline, we get to experience both of their relationships. Can Mac and Annie make it work the second time around?

Why Kirsten loves it

This steamy story is the latest in the Dream Harbor series, but it also acts as a prequel because it’s a dual timeline. It was hard to pick which timeline story I liked more, but the edge might go to the present day because it was fun to check in on the other characters in the series and see a wedding!!

Find this book in: Christmas Books 2025 / Bakery Romance Books / Christmas Romance Books / Giftable Books

Good Spirits

Author: B.K. Borison

Year: 2025

Genre: Holiday Romance

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Nolan is the Ghost of Christmas Past and thinks the holiday season will be a routine haunting until he meets Harriet York. She is sweet and kind. Neither of them has any idea why she is being haunted.

The more time they spend together, the more their connection deepens. Soon, Nolan is wishing he had a future that involved more than just hauntings. With their deadline of Christmas Eve approaching, Nolan and Harriet need to find answers. They are not sure what the consequences will be.

Why Jackie loves it

This is a really delightful Christmas romance book. I loved how the story came together in the end. Nolan and Harriett each had something to give to the other, so it did not feel like a savior/ knight in shining armor situation.

Find this book in: New Christmas Books 2025 / Giftable Books

Grace & Henry’s Holiday Movie Marathon

Author: Matthew Norman

Year: 2025

Genre: Holiday Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Grace and Henry both lost their spouses shortly after the start of the new year. Now, it’s been a year, and they’ve become friends because they understand one another, despite their mother’s meddling schemes. Together, along with Grace’s kids, they decide to tackle a tradition Henry had with his wife – an annual holiday movie marathon.

As Grace and Henry’s friendship grows, they learn to lean on one another to get through their respective grief and even being to start healing.

Trigger Warnings

Death of a Spouse, Grief

Why Kirsten loves it

This is sort of a romance, but it’s really more about Grace and Henry dealing with their respective grief in their own ways. Henry’s grief was unexpected while Grace’s husband has cancer. Because of how their grief manifested, their stories were very different and they way they healed was different and beautiful.

And I can’t leave out Grace’s kids and their connection to their mother, their family unit, and Henry – oh and the mice! They brought much-needed levity to the story, rounding it out and keeping it from being too heavy.

Find this book in: New Christmas Books 2025 / Christmas Book Club Books / Giftable Books

The Secret Christmas Library

Author: Jenny Colgan

Year: 2025

Genre: Holiday Mystery

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

One of our favorite authors, Jenny Colgan, is back with a holiday story set in the Scottish Highlands! Mirren Sutherland is an amateur antiquarian book hunter who has been hired by Jamie McPherson to find a book worth so much that it could save his crumbling estate. But his grandad was known for both collecting rare books AND being a lover of treasure hunts. Together, the duo, plus Mirren’s rival book hunter, Theo, must work to find the book!

Over the course of a snowed-in holiday, Mirren and the crew work together to decode the clues left by Jamie’s grandfather as they traverse the grounds in search of the mysterious book.

Why Kirsten loves it

Jenny Colgan is back! I adored this story and the scavenger hunt mystery to find the rare book around the grounds. The clues were laid out engagingly and the slow-burning romance going on in the background added to the story in a delicious way. It was the perfect cozy mystery with a hint of Christmas cheer!

Find this book in: Jenny Colgan Books in Order / Christmas Mystery Books / Giftable Books