If you are looking for the next novel to read, look no further.
We have put together some of the best book club reads for 2022!
From time travel to sunken ships and magical realism, these books are just what you need for a dose of happy in your life.
Being a part of a book club is a great opportunity to discover new favorites and try new genres. With 8 months left till the end of the year, we have put together a fantastic list of feel-good reads with a heart that are sure to delight.
This post is all about The Best Book Club Reads for 2022!
HAPPY READING!!!
Best Book Club Reads for 2022
Don’t you just love a good book? Ah, to curl up with a favorite read and get swept away in a beautiful story is a joy worth making time for. Whether you are part of a book club in search of the next month’s pick, curating your personal reading list, or a part of our own Literary Club, the books on this list are absolutely worth checking out.
As you can probably tell, I love books about books, gardens, cottages, antiques and history. All the titles explore powerful characters who grow through their experiences. They are light, feel-good reads that explore themes like family, tradition, history, overcoming obstacles, and solving old mysteries. Trying to stay positive and avoid stress these days, I turn to books that will empower, inspire, and make me smile.
If you would like lively discussions about the books below, interviews, giveaways, virtual tea and pajama parties, quotes, and helpful resources related to the monthly feature, we would love to invite you to join our Facebook group.
May: Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe
by Heather Webber
Ah, the one that started it all. When I entered the Ink by Hudson bookstore at DFW airport, I wasn’t looking for anything specific. All I knew was that I needed a light, enjoyable read. I thought maybe The Duke and I by Julia Quinn. I had just watched the second season of Bridgerton, but had not read any of the books. Since it wasn’t in stock, I continued to browse the shelves until the cover of Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe by Heather Webber grabbed my attention.
The book did not disappoint, and once I started reading, it was hard to put down. A perfect blend of magical realism, mystery, keeping family traditions alive, gardening and baking ideas, it was exactly what I needed. And not unlike the visitors of the small charming town, who end up wanting to stay, I soon fell in love with Wicklow myself. The quote “I came for the Blackbirds, but I am staying for the pie.” sums it all up.
June: Surviving Savannah
by Patti Callahan
I love history, stories of sunken treasure ships and Titanic, of course. Historical fiction has always been one of my favorite genres, so when I stumbled on Surviving Savannah by Patti Callahan, I was immediately intrigued. How had I never heard of the Pulaski before that day? Waiting to be discovered and salvaged for over 180 years, the shipwreck, along with all its secrets, rested in the dark of the ocean bottom.
Patti Calahan takes us on a compelling and emotional journey of discovery. We are part of the salvage and research efforts. We are transported back in time to that fateful night of June 14th, 1838, witnessing the events as they unfold. Told from the points of view of three remarkable women, dealing with the aftermath of a tragedy. Strong, determined, loving women who make us feel we can be stronger ourselves.
July: The Ladies of Ivy Cottage
by Julie Klassen
I can’t resist a charming cottage set in the English countryside. Give me a story about a small village, where friends encourage each other, romance blossoms and there are mysteries to solve, and I am a fan. Book two in the Tales of Ivy Hill series by Julie Klassen, The Ladies of Ivy Cottage, delivers just that. Not surprising this Regency-era novel is rated 4.6 stars on both Goodreads and Amazon.
It tells the story of impoverished gentlewoman Rachel Ashford, determined to earn her own livelihood. Encouraged by the village women to open a subscription library with the books she has inherited or gained through donations, Rachel discovers two mysteries hidden among them. And just like that, we are swept away.
August: The Jane Austen Society
by Natalie Jenner
It is hardly a secret that I am a big Jane Austen fan, so a novel set in Chawton would without a doubt be high on top of my reading list. Set just after WWII, The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner tells the story of a group of distant relatives of Jane herself, who, led by their love for the author, combine efforts to preserve both her home and legacy.
Jane Austen fans will love this powerful and moving novel that explores the tragedies and triumphs of life. A true testament to what we can accomplish and overcome together, this beautiful story is truly inspirational. As the Washington Post wrote of this wonderful book: “Anyone seeking an antidote to contemporary chaos will find a welcome respite among the members of a group whose outer lives may appear simple, but whose inner lives need the kind of balm Austen knew well.”
September: The Book Charmer
by Karen Hawkins
Talking books. A charming town with a touch of magic and whimsy. A gorgeous cover perfect for home decor. The Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins had it all and then some. There was no doubt that I had to read it. This is the first book in the Dove Pond series by the author, each book featuring one of the seven Dove sisters, each with a unique gift of her own. For those of you who love magical realism stories, the world of Dove Pond awaits.
October: The Little Shop of Found Things
by Paula Brackston
I love antiques, and my travels often lead me to small towns with shops where treasures from years past await. Each with a story and history of their own, looking for a new home. It so happens sometimes that you find treasure walking through contemporary stores as well.
On a trip such as this, to the local Barnes & Noble bookstore, I saw the gorgeous cover of The Little Shop of Found Things. The title grabbed my attention immediately. The concept of a little shop and found things sounded so charming that I needed to know more. I often say that I buy only things that speak to me, so finding a book featuring a character who has a gift of connecting with antique items was intriguing.
November: The Fifth Avenue Story Society
by Rachel Hauck
The Fifth Avenue Story Society by Rachel Hauck is one of those novels that came highly recommended, and I just had to read it. Once I saw the gorgeous cover, I was sold. A library, mysterious invitations, a secret society. How deliciously intriguing.
December: Christmas by the Book
by Anne Marie Ryan
It’s December! A time of the year when a good book, a cup of cocoa, and a cozy blanket are a perfect way to spend some quality time with oneself. It’s a month for reflection, gratitude, and gift giving. A time when many still believe in miracles, as cruel as the world may be, and we can all be a little bit kinder, more generous, more hopeful. We look to the future with renewed hope for the days to come. For some, the holidays are joyous, for others, bittersweet. For some, a break and for others, the busiest, most hectic, chaotic, anxiety-filled time of the year.
No matter the circumstances, though, as another year rolls to a close, there comes a time for all of us to stop, even if just for a moment. It’s that moment of mindfulness and reflection that unites us. We all need a bit of kindness in our lives, a bit of joy, a bit of care. Christmas by the Book by Anne Marie Ryan, our December monthly book club pick, is a story of giving and hope. One about reaching out to those who may not be as fortunate as many find themselves. It’s a story about reflection and taking the time to acknowledge the people around us.
BONUS: The Book of Lost Names
by Kristin Harmel
Inspired by an incredible true story, this beautifully written page-turner is a must-read. The Book of Lost Names tells the story of a young woman whose talent for forgery helps hundreds of Jewish children flee the Nazis.
Decades later, she is reminded of those days when a book with strange code resurfaces. This empowering read shows the bravery, selflessness, and creativity a small-town librarian is capable of. It is a story of how one person can make a significant difference in this world.
TO JOIN:
- Join our Facebook Group
- Join The Literary Club Here
- Come to the Whispers at the Garden Gate to watch author interviews.
- Like, share, and comment to spread the word. We would like to reach everyone who is looking for an online book club that offers feel-good reads, a supportive, friendly community, and practical life applications inspired by our favorite reads.
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