If you like choosing your books by reading mood, I’m always on the lookout for exactly this kind of book. I like my stories intense and emotional, and I look for the ones that truly stand out. Typically, I can tell within the first few chapters-usually around chapter 3 or 4 -if I’ll be engrossed enough to finish the book in just a few sittings. This month’s picks have a little bit of everything: historical fiction, emotional family stories, literary fiction, suspense, and a few page-turners that are hard to put down once you start.
Several of these books feel especially perfect for book clubs because they explore complicated relationships, identity, friendship, revenge, and the choices people make under pressure. Others are simply the kind of immersive reads you want to curl up with for an entire weekend.
I love Lisa See, and her new book, Daughters of the Sun and Moon, did not disappoint. This beautifully historical fiction story is a classic choice for book clubs. Additionally, there are several great options perfect for busy moms, a day at the beach, or vacation. In short, there’s something for everyone. Keep scrolling, and I hope you find the perfect summer read!
To learn to read is to light a fire; every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.
– Victor Hugo
Sweeping, High-Emotion Historical Sagas
When your reading mood calls for something deeply immersive, these historical novels deliver incredible emotional weight.
Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
Rating ★★★★★
In the 1870s, three Chinese women in Los Angeles seek love, freedom, and justice in a time of severe anti-Chinese violence and prejudice. In addition, they face personal challenges as they support each other in their fight against hardship. Their friendship shows their courage and determination despite the many obstacles they encounter.
Book Clubs: Readers will enjoy discussing how three marginalized women support one another in a severely patriarchal, hostile environment. At the same time, the book also highlights anti-immigrant attitudes and the tendency to blame certain communities, which can easily lead to conversations about immigration, systemic racism, and human rights.
Another great Lisa See book is Lady Tan’s Circle of Women
Scribner | Jun 9, 2026 | 384 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-1982117078 | Historical Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
This month, our book club pick is The Young Will Remember – a thoughtful and emotional story that will that give book clubs so much to talk about.
The Young Will Remember by Eve J. Chung
Rating ★★★★★
Ellie Chang is a Chinese American journalist who ends up stranded behind enemy lines when the military plane she is in is shot down over North Korea during the Korean War. This story is meticulously researched historical fiction and additionally brings to light the frequently overlooked experiences of women during the war, confronting topics such as wartime sexual violence and the impact of war on individuals.
Book Clubs: This story leaves a strong emotional impact after you finish it. It looks at family, memories, and sacrifice in a way that feels personal and touching. It’s especially good for clubs that enjoy discussing characters who make difficult choices and ponder what’s morally correct.
Berkley | May 5, 2026 | 448 pages | ISBN-13: 978-0593640562 | Historical Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Complex Relationships + Domestic Drama
The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff
Rating ★★★★½
The Burning Side tells the story of April and Leo, a couple struggling with their marriage. Moreover, their situation worsens when their house burns down, forcing them to move in with April’s family. As they deal with their issues, the story looks at themes of family and heartbreak. It ultimately focuses on our choices, the need for forgiveness, and what it means to feel at home.
Book Clubs: What stood out to me most was the author’s focus on deep emotions and character growth rather than a fast-paced plot. It also avoids common clichés and explores the complexities of long-term relationships and generational trauma- all of which sparks natural conversations.
I also read Sarah Damoff’s first book The Bright Years – it’s a page-turner.
Simon & Schuster | May 19, 2026 | 336 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-1668085011 | Women’s Fiction / Literary Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Rating ★★★★★
Set in 1933 Mississippi, The Calamity Club follows an unlikely sisterhood of unique, resilient women and a young orphan. Ultimately, pushed to the brink by the Great Depression and stifling societal expectations, they hatch a highly unconventional plan to take back control of their lives. Along with rich historical context, the author balances humor and emotion in a way that feels very relatable.
For book clubs who enjoy books that focus on complex relationships and female dynamics, put this one on your TBR list. Book clubs will also enjoy engaging discussions on resilience, survival, and social class during the Great Depression.
If you haven’t read Stockett’s first book The Help – read about it here.
Spiegel & Grau | May 5, 2026 | 656 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-1954118812 | Historical Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
High-Stakes + Tense Suspense + Smart Mysteries
If your current reading mood calls for high-stakes thrillers or a good mystery, Her Last Breath and Three Reasons for Revenge are page-turners.
Three Reasons for Revenge by Dervla McTiernan
Rating ★★★★★
The story starts when Alexis Turner goes into a police station to report a sexual assault, then mysteriously disappears. At this point, Detective Sergeant Judith Lee steps in and investigates, uncovering a web of lies and deceit. This story quickly pulls you into secrets, motives, and some very complicated relationships.
Book Clubs:The book looks at the gap between what is legal and what is moral and shows that revenge raises ethical questions. For book clubs who love debates about justice versus vengeance, this is a perfect pick.
Three Reason’s for Revenge is excellent- but I though Devrla McTiernan’s first book, was just as intriguing – check it out here.
William Morrow | July 21, 2026 | 336 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-0063042292 | Suspense Fiction / Women’s Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Her Last Breath by Taylor Adams
Rating ★★★★★
Her Last Breath centers around Tess and Allie, two close friends, whose caving adventure becomes fatal when a threatening stranger confines them hundreds of feet below the surface. From the beginning, the author builds suspense, creating a tense thriller that immerses readers in the oppressive gloom of a cave. And there are even more sinister secrets once they are deep within the cave.
Book Clubs: Interestingly, this book lacks a clear hero or a simple moral lesson. Most characters are hiding secrets or have a hidden agenda. Which, of course, keeps book club members shifting their loyalties and questioning which character they trust and support. Plus, the final twists may get people really talking as everyone debates the characters’ fates, legal issues, and moral responsibilities.
William Morrow | Feb 17, 2026 | 336 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-0063394131 | Psychological Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Fast-Paced Books for Your Next Reading Mood (Perfect to Kick a Reading Slump)
If you prefer picking your books on your reading mood, these light reads are well-paced escapes to lift your spirits after a busy week.
The Heir Apparent by Rebecca Armitage
Rating ★★★★
This is a story about Lexi Villiers, a 29-year-old doctor from Tasmania. She is a Princess and third in line for the British throne, but only those closest to her know this. Without a doubt, she is happy. However, her life changes when a skiing accident takes the lives of her father and twin brother. Suddenly, Lexi must take on the role of heir apparent. She faces a tough choice-live in Australia, where she feels at home, or accept the heavy responsibilities of royal life. As she deals with family drama and secrets, the tension and power struggles around her keep readers wanting to know what happens next.
Book Clubs: If you enjoy contemporary fiction with themes of royalty (always intriguing) and light romance, this is a fantastic choice. Book clubs will love discussing the balance between duty and desire, as well as the complexities of family loyalty. There is also a nice mix of family drama and secrets that will spark a lot of conversation.
Cardinal | December 2, 2025 | 416 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-1538776308 | Women’s Fiction | A Reese Book Club Pick
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhouser
Rating ★★★★½
Lady Tremaine is a reimagining of Cinderella told from the perspective of Ethel, the “evil” stepmother. When a royal ball offers a chance to change everything, Ethel discovers a dark secret within the royal family and must choose between her interests and those of her recalcitrant stepdaughter. A must-read if your reading mood is craving character-driven historical fiction featuring strong women. Another reason this worked for me is that the story beautifully blends family drama with a touch of mystery, so keep turning the pages.
Book Clubs: There’s a lot to talk about when it comes to loyalty, identity, and the choices women are forced to make. Plus, the story also invites discussion about how we judge women and who is seen as the villain.
St. Martin’s Press | Mar 3, 2026 | 352 pages. | ISBN-13: 978-1250396341 | Women’s Fiction | A Reese Book Club Pick
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin
Rating ★★★★★
The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin is about four women in Victorian London in 1895 who are constrained by oppressive marriages and limiting societal expectations. For this reason, they secretly get together for a book club. And in doing so, they discover, through camaraderie, the bravery required to stand up for themselves and reshape their futures. It’s warm, emotional, and full of the kind of characters you want to spend time with. It hits all the right notes for that “I need a book with characters I can relate to” kind of reading mood
Book Club: The Secret Book Society is a great choice for book clubs because it focuses on female friendship and empowerment. Book clubs will especially enjoy talking about these friendships and the power of female bonding and support.
Hanover Square Press | Aug 26, 2025 | 336 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-1335016287 | Women’s Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Imaginative + Reflective Fiction (A Little Something Different For Your Reading Mood)
Matt Haig’s book is the perfect match for a reflective reading mood when you want a story that stays with you long after the final page.
The Midnight Train by Matt Haig
Rating ★★★★½
The Midnight Train is a magical-realism novel about Wilbur Budd, an 81-year-old who, after his death, boards a mystical train. The train travels through the defining moments of his past, offering him one last chance to review his choices and confront his regrets. One thing I really liked is that it’s thoughtful without feeling preachy and has that comforting “what if?” feeling throughout.
Book Clubs: This book is perfect for a book club since Wilbur’s regrets are both personal and relatable; you’ll find yourselves discussing questions like, “What moment would you want to revisit?” What would you change? Also, some people will understand him, while others may criticize him.
Also by Matt Haig: The Midnight Library
And if you enjoy magical realism and speculative fiction give The White Octopus Hotel a try.
Viking | May 26, 2026 | 304 pages | ISBN-13 : 978-0593833377 | Speculative Fiction / Time-slip Fiction
[Read the Full Review & Book Club Guide ]
Books that are popular right now:
Below are emotional books with well-developed characters and some “what would you do?” moments. They are thought-provoking, and all great book club picks that spark conversation.
Happy reading,
Linda
