Nothing is better than enjoying the sun with a good book as the weather gets warmer during springtime. Here are some of the most anticipated novels of the season, from new releases to cult-classic authors to celebrity memoirs and up-and-coming debut novels.
“Funny Story” by Emily Henry
As the beloved author of “Beach Read” and “People We Meet on Vacation,” Emily Henry is one of the newest powerhouses in contemporary romance. Henry is known and favored for her balance of wit, romance and exploration of serious topics; her romance novels have been hit releases every year. The author’s most recent upcoming novel, “Funny Story,” follows the unconventional romance of Daphne and Miles — two people who are unfortunately brought together when their respective romantic partners leave them for each other. Described as “shimmering” and “joyful,” this book is bound to satisfy your springtime romance fantasies. “Funny Story” releases on Apr. 23.
“The Familiar” by Leigh Bardugo
Author of the smash young-adult fantasy hit series “Six of Crows” and “Shadow and Bone,” Leigh Bardugo’s newest adult historical fantasy novel set during the Spanish Golden Age, “The Familiar,” is hitting the shelves this springtime. “The Familiar” follows protagonist Luzia, a talented servant with a hidden talent for magic who navigates a treacherous world of intrigue that blurs the boundaries between magic, science and deceit. For fantasy and historical fiction fans, be sure to check out this novel! “The Familiar” releases on Apr. 9.
“The House of Hidden Meanings” by RuPaul
The host of the hit reality TV show “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” American drag queen RuPaul has become a pop culture icon and household name. In his newest memoir, “The House of Hidden Meanings,” RuPaul reveals a more intimate side of himself to the public. The memoir explores his upbringing growing up Black and queer. Readers will also learn more about RuPaul’s discovery of the power of performance and eventual self-acceptance. “The House of Hidden Meanings” released on Mar. 5.
“Women of Good Fortune” by Sophie Wan
“Women of Good Fortune” is a thrilling heist and contemporary romance novel by debut author Sophie Wan — a recent UC Berkeley alumna and current grad school student in Philadelphia. The novel follows the protagonist, Lulu, who reluctantly agrees to a marriage proposal from Shanghai’s most eligible bachelor to alleviate her family’s financial struggles. With the support of her two best friends, Rina and Jane, they hatch a plan to steal the gift money from her extravagant wedding, each driven by their own desires for freedom, success and beauty. “Women of Good Fortune” released on Mar. 5.
“Anita de Monte Laughs Last” by Xochitl Gonzalez
“Anita de Monte Laughs Last” is a mystery fiction novel about the art world by New York Times bestselling author Xochitl Gonzalez, who previously wrote “Olga Dies Dreaming.” “Anita de Monte Laughs Last” is set in 1985 New York City and 1998 College Hill. It follows art history student Raquel, who discovers the forgotten story of Anita de Monte, a rising star in the art world whose tragic death has faded from memory. As Raquel navigates academia and a romance with an older art student, parallels between her own life and Anita’s emerge, prompting reflections on power dynamics, love and who is remembered or forgotten in the elite world of art. “Anita de Monte Laughs Last” released on Mar. 5.
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