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Best Contemporary Books

May 2025

Landline

Georgie McCool’s marriage is on the rocks, and she knows it. When her husband Neal takes the kids to Omaha for Christmas without her, she discovers an old landline phone that somehow connects her to Neal in the past. As she grapples with the chance to rewrite history, Georgie must confront her fears and decide what she truly wants. Rowell’s poignant exploration of love, choices, and second chances will leave you laughing, crying, and believing in the magic of connection.

Attachments

Eleanor’s world turns upside down when she meets Park on the school bus. Misfit and outcast, she’s drawn to his quiet strength and comic book obsession. As their unlikely friendship blossoms into first love, they navigate the treacherous waters of high school, family drama, and self-discovery. Rowell’s poignant storytelling captures the raw intensity of teenage emotions, painting a vivid picture of 1986 Omaha. This bittersweet romance will tug at your heartstrings and remind you of your own first crush.

Will Grayson, Will Grayson

Two teens named Will Grayson collide in a chance encounter that changes both their lives. One, depressed and closeted, finds unexpected connection. The other, struggling with his larger-than-life best friend Tiny Cooper, discovers new perspectives on friendship and love. Their intertwining stories unfold with humor, heart, and raw honesty, capturing the rollercoaster of adolescence. Green and Levithan’s collaborative novel pulses with authentic teen voices and the messy, beautiful journey of self-discovery.

Midnight Sun

Twilight fans, rejoice! Step into Edward Cullen’s brooding mind as Meyer unveils the vampire’s perspective on his fateful encounter with Bella Swan. Delve deeper into the complexities of vampire life, uncover hidden motivations, and experience the struggle between desire and conscience anew. This long-awaited companion novel breathes fresh life into a beloved story, offering both familiar thrills and surprising revelations. A must-read for those still enchanted by the world of Forks.

The Making of Us

In “The Making of Us,” Lisa Jewell weaves a poignant tale of three strangers bound by an unexpected connection. As they grapple with their own personal struggles, a chance discovery leads them on a journey of self-discovery and family. Jewell’s masterful storytelling had me hooked from the first page, her characters so vivid I felt I knew them. This book touched my heart, reminding me of the power of human connection and the unexpected ways our lives can intertwine. A truly unforgettable read that left me pondering long after I turned the final page.

The Night She Disappeared

On a balmy summer evening, Tallulah vanishes without a trace, leaving her baby behind. A year later, a mysterious writer moves into a cottage near the woods where Tallulah was last seen. As she delves into the village’s secrets, she uncovers a web of lies and deceit. With each revelation, the truth becomes more elusive, and the danger more palpable. Jewell’s masterful storytelling keeps you guessing until the very end, weaving a tale of love, loss, and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of seemingly idyllic small-town life.

Everything Is F*cked

Mark Manson’s “Everything Is F*cked” is a brutally honest wake-up call for our troubled times. With his trademark blend of humor and candor, Manson tackles the big questions plaguing modern society. He challenges readers to confront their own bullsh*t and find meaning in a world that often feels meaningless. It’s not always comfortable, but it’s refreshingly real. I found myself nodding along, cringing, and laughing out loud – sometimes all on the same page. A thought-provoking read that sticks with you.

My Dark Vanessa

Vanessa Wye’s life is forever altered by her relationship with her charismatic English teacher, Jacob Strane. At 15, she believes it’s love. At 32, she’s forced to confront the truth. As allegations surface against Strane, Vanessa grapples with her memories, questioning everything she thought she knew. Russell’s haunting debut explores power, consent, and the lasting impact of trauma. A raw, unflinching look at the complexities of abuse and the struggle to reclaim one’s narrative.

Carrie Soto Is Back

Carrie Soto’s return to tennis is a rollercoaster of emotions. As I devoured this book, I felt her determination and vulnerability. Reid’s vivid prose transported me courtside, the tension palpable with each serve. Carrie’s journey of self-discovery resonated deeply, reminding me of my own struggles with perfectionism. The complex relationships, especially with her father, added layers of depth. A gripping tale of ambition, love, and redemption that kept me up way past my bedtime.

The Cousins

Milly, Aubrey, and Jonah Story haven’t seen their grandmother in years. When she unexpectedly invites them to work at her island resort for the summer, they’re suspicious. Why now, after all this time? As they uncover family secrets and navigate complex relationships, the cousins find themselves caught in a web of lies and betrayal. With twists at every turn, this gripping mystery will keep you guessing until the very end. McManus masterfully weaves together past and present, creating a suspenseful tale that explores the bonds of family and the weight of long-buried truths.