Winter is here, which means it’s time to pick up a great book to get all cozy with (or, rather, sign up for Audible to listen on the go).
It’s never been a better time to pick up a new read, either. With favorite titles — hint hint, check out Reese Witherspoon’s Book Club — you’ll soon make it your daily mission to read (or listen) every day.
We on the shopping team can’t help picking up (or rather, plugging in) a good book. We’ve scanned hundreds of reviews, best-seller lists, and drawn from our own list of favorites to bring you a roundup of the best Audible books you can read on the go.
Ahead, find the 45 best books to add to your personal library this season — all of which have our personal thoughts and review notes. Whether you purchase the Audible version or the novel in paperback or hardcover, It’s time to release some of the most memorable books you can flip through (or listen to).
Best Memoirs
“The Woman in Me” by Britney Spears
We watched her grow from our screens, the stage and red carpets, but who is she really? You can finally listen to the astounding story of Britney Spears from the icon herself.
Spears documents everything; from her rise to fame to her battles with substance abuse, turbulent relationships, a secret abortion, postpartum depression and the battle to break her conservatorship. Written with remarkable candor, humor and bravery, “The Woman in Me” is a story of faith and resilience at its core. By the end of it, you will be left questioning much of what you think about living a life of fame and fortune.
“Spare” by Prince Harry
I’ll be honest — I immersed myself in this deeply personal memoir by Prince Harry in less than 24 hours. It’s that good and details His Majesty’s struggles with losing his mother — Princess Diana — at a young age, embarking for service in the Army and meeting his wife, Meghan.
If purchased on Audible, impressively, Prince Harry narrates his life’s account. It’s must-read for 2023, by far.
“If You Would Have Told Me: A Memoir” by John Stamos
If you grew up in the “Full House” era like me, you’re going to fly though Stamos’s memoir.
The Hollywood heartthrob went from flipping patties at his dad’s fast-food joint to starring in hits like “General Hospital,” “Full House” and “ER.” What we may know less about is how it felt for him to hit rock bottom; living alone, divorced, using alcohol to self-medicate. Stamos recalls his journey toward true happiness, including his brotherhood with Bob Saget and the impact of becoming a husband and father.
“My Name Is Barbra” by Barbra Streisand
In nearly 1,000 pages, the 46-time Grammy nominated star recounts her brilliant, non-conventional career spanning six decades.
Barbra’s story begins before she slashed the ‘a’ from her name — growing up in a humble apartment in working class Brooklyn. She goes on to share every step toward success, detailing her breakout appearance in Funny Girl to topping the chart with “People,” and starring in hit films like “A Start is Born” and “Yentl.”
The Audible edition is read by the legend herself and features additional anecdotes and exclusive music.
“Doppelganger: A Trip into the Mirror World” by Naomi Klein
Perhaps you know her for her leftist political analyses or outspoken criticisms of corporate globalization and capitalism. Her name is Naomi Klein, but some know her as someone else altogether: Naomi Wolf, a once well-respected feminist journalist who traversed into pushing anti-vax conspiracies and was banned by twitter during the COVOD-19 pandemic.
Klein’s memoir traces her identity crises as she is mistaken online for a person with whom she fundamentally disagrees with. As she nears obsession with her doppelganger, she begins to notice cracks in her own belief system and starts drawing uncanny connections between far leftism and the alt-right.
Read if you’re ready to challenge your own social and political convictions.
“Love, Pamela: A Memoir of Prose, Poetry, and Truth” by Pamela Anderson
Before she was Playboy’s favorite cover girl and the paparazzi’s favorite picture, Pamela Anderson was just a shy girl who played in nature with her imaginary friends.
After her face was the focus of the stadium screen at a Canadian football game, she was shipped off to Los Angeles and rocketed to fame — posing naked and sitting in the arms of bad boys like Tommy Lee. Somewhere in the mix, Pamela loses control of her own narrative. Her memoir, which mixes poetry with the tales of her life, paints a beautiful picture of how she reclaimed her sexuality and power from within.
By the end of it, you might just feel like she’s one of us.
“Pageboy: A Memoir” by Elliot Page
Elliot Page captured all of our hearts with his performance as a pregnant 16-year-old in “Juno,” a graduate student in “Inception” and superhero Kitty Pryde in X-men films “The Last Stand” and “Days of Future Past.”
But Page’s roles have been far from his own reality as a queer and trans person navigating Hollywood. In his own words, Page sets the record about the pressure to perform and a society that has attempted to funnel him into a binary. Raw, searing and intimate, “Pageboy” may move you to tears, lead you to laughter and leave you with a newfound respect for actors that push the industry forward.
“Class: A Memoir of Motherhood, Hunger, and Higher Education” by Stephanie Land
Stephanie Land made headlines with “Maid,” a riveting story of hard work and low wages as she documented her experience working as a housekeeper, struggling to escape an abusive relationship and making ends meet to provide for her young daughter.
Her subsequent memoir “Class” picks up where “Maid” left off. Land takes readers along her secondary story of survival, this one showcasing her pursuit of higher education. If you’re waiting for her to catch a break, you’ll have to wait longer. She faces mounting student loans and judgement from professors and students, but she persists. Land’s writing is captivating, and this memoir is sure to remind you to take nothing for granted.
“A Man of Two Faces: A Memoir, a History, a Memorial:” by Viet Thanh Nguyen
Pulitzer Prize-winning author of “The Sympathizer,” Viet Thanh Nguyen breaks the rules of memoir-writing in the best way possible, sharing snippets of his own experiences as a refugee alongside larger stories of colonization and assimilation.
Nguyen gives us a glimpse into the harrowing tale of his life, from being forced to flee Vietnam as a toddler to resettling in San Jose. He’s exposed to violence at a young age, both in his own life when his parents are shot at their grocery store, and in the larger world, as he watches the drama of the Vietnam War unfold from the screens.
Nguyen’s writing keeps us enthralled, while also dealing with with topics like memory, trauma and the promises of America.
“Counting the Cost” by Jill Duggar
Remember “19 Kids and Counting”? The TLC show centered on the sometimes chaotic, faith-fueled lives of Jim Bob, Michelle and their clan of children.
Now, one of the daughter’s is finally sharing her side of growing up as a Duggar. Jill and her husband Derick have expelled the secrets that fans know less of; the strict model of patriarchy the family followed, paternal authority and dangerous beliefs that men are superior and women are expected to be wives and mothers. Some admissions may just take your breath away.
“I’m Glad My Mom Died” by Jennette McCurdy
If the title already has you hooked, go ahead and save yourself the time and order this now.
Jennette McCurdy is known best for her role as Sam, a sarcastic, tomboy in Nickelodeon’s hit show “iCarly.” But the confident and sometimes cocky tween that she played on camera was far from the true Jennette, a young girl riddled with anxiety, body images problems and a shockingly unhealthy relationship with her mother.
McCurdy shares what it’s like to grow up in show business with a mother who planned her calorie restriction diets and forced her to step on a scale five times a day. Shortly after filming “iCarly” spinoff “Sam and Cat,” McCurdy’s mother dies of cancer. It’s then that McCurdy quits acting, starts therapy and and learns how to heal the wounds of her past.
Best Vacation Books
“Killers of the Flower Moon: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI” by David Grann
Earlier this year, Martin Scorsese’s film “Killers of the Flower Moon” hit theaters. The screenplay, which Scorsese penned with Eric Roth, uses David Grann’s heavily-researched nonfiction book as source material.
“I read the book via audio before I saw the movie, and can honestly say it enriched my moviegoing experience so much,” said Angela Tricarico, commerce reporter at Decider. “The book goes in depth to explore the Osage Reign of Terror by looking at how and why one family, that of Mollie Burkhart, became the prime target in this string of murders. Using three narrators, you’ll learn so much about the Osage before, during and after this tragic period of their history.”
“The School for Good Mothers” by Jessamine Chan
Instantly made a national favorite, “The School for Good Mothers” deserves all the praise and acclaim for being one of the most unique novels I’ve had the pleasure of reading. One author, Liz Moore, dubbed it “haunting and unforgettable,” saying she’s “in awe of Jessamine Chan’s mind.” I couldn’t agree more.
When Asian American protagonist Frida, the mother of Harriet, has a “horrible day,” she’s led to a surveillance-housed campus where she’ll learn how to be a good mother. It perfectly portrays the perils of culture differences, the struggles of motherhood and socioeconomic differences among caregivers. It’s probably next on deck to turn into a movie, too.
“One Italian Summer” by Rebecca Serle
Rebecca Serle is the queen of literary realism, and “One Italian Summer” is no exception to her track record. This hot new release is part of most book lists — and not just for its riveting cover of the Italian riviera.
When Katy’s mother dies, she sets out on a solo trip to Positano, the southern landmark of lemons, luscious relaxation and lots of oceanic scenes. It’s one of the most thought-provoking books I read this year, surrounding the theme of discovering your true identity, overcoming grief on your own terms and finding magic along the way.
“Do Tell: A Novel” by Edie O’Dare
“Do Tell” follows Edie O’Dare, an actress-turned-gossip columnist in the 1940s who wrestles with the weight of secrets and whether or not there’s a line to be crossed with them.
“I’ve read this book as an e-book and again on audio,” said Tricarico. “I can confidently say that the audiobook, narrated by Lisa Flanagan, infuses so much life into Lynch’s story…If you’re looking for an engaging story that’s made better by actually hearing how things are meant to be said, ‘Do Tell’ is a perfect read.”
“The Dinner List” by Rebecca Serle
Add “The Dinner List” to your reading list along with Serle’s recent novel, “One Italian Summer.” Another literary realism pick, the extremely light read focuses on the question: “If you can have dinner with five people, living or dead, who would they be?”
The protagonist happens to experience that in reality, where a long dinner party leads to past reflections on love and life — and unchartered territory. It’s a fun, different book that would be great for a book club, too.
“The Summer Place” by Jennifer Weiner
All hail the Queen of Beach Reads, Jennifer Weiner. Her latest release, “The Summer Place,” is one of the more relatable reads to enjoy by the beach or pool — and, intelligently, makes pandemic references and touches on modern-day life to put this season into a whole new perspective.
The character-driven plot homes in on Sarah and her stepdaugher Ruby who’s planning a wedding with Gabe, her pandemic boyfriend she quarantined with at NYU. Along the way, you’ll meet Sarah’s former best-selling novelist mother Veronica, along with her brother, Sam, who’s on a self-discovery journey of his own.
Perfectly packaged into the hottest summer read, it’s one we recommend IRL, too.
“Island Time” by Georgia Clark
Georgia Clark is one of the most inspiring authors I’ve had the pleasure of crossing paths with through her writing. “Island Time” is her upcoming release that centers on a family who becomes stranded on an Australian island after a volcano erupts. It’s a wonderful, light read to take with you on vacation or to read when the sun’s shining.
What makes this work stand out from the rest is how beautifully Clark weaves her characters together; each one has a different personality and different subplots to follow. Plus, there are underlying themes of gender equality, authenticity and living life one day at a time.
“The Lost Bookshop” by Evie Woods
We have found the book for the lover of books.
This heartwarming story begins when three unassuming strangers walk into a bookshop. A spell is cast and they are immediately transported into a world of wonder — each one unlocking the beauties of their own stories. This book will challenge your imagination and perhaps inspire you to think of yourself more as the main character in your own life.
“The Survivalists: A Novel” by Kashana Cauley
After her parents pass away, Aretha commits to living a life of success and fortune. She becomes a lawyer and workaholic, until she meets Aaron, a coffee entrepreneur. It’s while visiting his Brooklyn brownstone that she comes to realize just how much some people stress over the future. She enters an underground world where people are stockpiling guns and planning for the apocalypse.
This book answers some deep questions in an entertaining style. You’ll be left wondering whether climbing the corporate matter makes sense at all, and what it really takes to survive in a place where affordable housing is hard to come by. And mostly, who, if anyone, we can trust.
“That Summer” by Jennifer Weiner
Speaking of Weiner, you have to read “That Summer” (add both to your to-read list while you’re at it). Infused with beautiful, summery scenery from Cape Cod, the luscious descriptions of buttered lobster rolls and dips at the ocean make it one of the most well-written fiction books I’ve read.
Keep in mind that this book references sexual assault, so it may be a bit heavy for some. However, it’s a thought-provoking book that balances deeper topics and easy-breezy days of summer to a T.
“The Unsinkable Greta James” by Jennifer E. Smith
As a fan of cruise vacations, I knew I had to read “The Unsinkable Greta James.” It’s also unique in that it focuses on a father-daughter relationship — one that’s somewhat of a rarity in modern-day fiction.
On a cruise to Alaska, both characters are sharpening their relationship by vacationing in close quarters, maturing in how they view themselves and resisting the urge to change. It’s an extremely light read — perfect for the warmer months, especially — and the characters are hard not to love.
Integrating the struggles of womanhood throughout, it’s the perfect coming-of-age story about growth, love and learning about what matters most.
“Cultish” by Amanda Montell
It doesn’t matter what type of book genre you prefer, I swear that everyone has to get their hands on “Cultish” by Amanda Montell.
No, it doesn’t simply talk about cults and spirituality (though the points she makes are exceptional). I found myself taking ample notes on how modern-day institutions, like boutique fitness classes and trending businesses, can be reminiscent of cult-like behavior.
I love how extensive Montell’s descriptions go, especially how she defines “cultish” as a language that’s not limited to one institution. It’s such a clever, educational read.
“The Summer Sail” by Wendy Francis
Perfect for cruise lovers and those looking for the perfect book to transition you into summertime, “The Summer Sail” is, by far, my prized recommendation for you.
Three middle-aged former roommates spend a vacation on a cruise to Bermuda: one who’s looking to connect more with her daughter, another who seems to be the perfect wife but has a lingering secret and another who’s anxiously waiting for her boyfriend to pop the question.
It was the perfect amount of intrigue to keep me reading but filled with many summer scenes to keep it light — absolutely perfect and definitely a hidden gem in the bunch.
“Cover Story” by Susan Rigetti
“Cover Story” centers on aspiring writer, Lora, who lands a summer internship at ELLE magazine and meets seasoned editor Cat, who takes Lora under her wing. It’s a great read about friendship, ambition and the journalism industry at-large.
When a scandal emerges, there’s a slew of emails and FBI correspondence to spice up the book as a whole, and it’s an insightful and interesting tale that you should read ASAP.
“Made In Manhattan” by Lauren Layne
I savored “Made In Manhattan,” Lauren Layne’s most recent release. It’s a reverse take on “My Fair Lady,” centering on Violet, who lives on the Upper East Side of Manhattan — very “Gossip Girl.”
When her beloved grandmother asks her to teach a dear friend the ins and outs of NYC, she has an enemies-to-lovers encounter that heats up over time. It’s a cute, socialite-surrounding favorite of mine that I recommend tenfold.
“Good Eggs” by Rebecca Hardiman
Oh, how sweet this debut novel is from Rebecca Hardiman. “Good Eggs” homes in on three generations of a whimsical Irish family whose tensions ignite once a home aide enters their lives.
Filled with much wisdom (after all, an eighty-three-year-old), this casual read leaves you with the feeling that life is never too old to start living and that no single family is perfect — and that’s just part of what fills up your cup.
Best Romance Novels
“The Golden Couple” by Greer Hendricks & Sarah Pekkanen
OK, real talk — even if you’re not keen on thrillers, “The Golden Couple” is a must-read. I was hooked from beginning to end (and, the ending isn’t so predictable, which I appreciated).
It’s an electrifying story of two wealthy Washington suburbanites, Marissa and Matthew, who are navigating their marriage through counseling after infidelity. Enter Avery, their therapist, who’s investigating this “golden couple” off the clock, too. It’s spicy, seductive and just ideal to sift through.
“Meant to Be Mine” by Hannah Orenstein
I’ve been a fan of Orenstein’s fiction work for a while, as she has a voice of her own for being a former matchmaker and journalist by trade. Her latest release, “Meant to Be Mine” is just as delightful as her other three novels, too.
Here, we explore Edie, the protagonist who has been waiting for a specific date to meet the love of her life (after her grandmother Gloria predicted meet-cutes for decades). When she meets who she instantly aligns to be the love of her life, she’s led to question if’s perfect timing — or, if fate-led relationships are a hoax.
If you love the traditional rom-com, you’ll love this new spinoff. It’s magical, wistful and leaves you in love with her words just as much as love for the characters (and hope for love in general, TBH).
“A Novel Obsession” by Caitlin Barasch
Wow, if you’re looking for a great book you’ll be instantly obsessed with, “A Novel Obsession” hits the nail on the head — in both title and story.
Naomi Ackerman, a NYC-based bookseller and aspiring novelist, grows an uncanny obsession with her boyfriend’s ex-girlfriend. The “research” for her debut novel (of which she’s been procrasting writing) turns into impromptu meet-ups, and you’re just going to have to read for more.
I couldn’t put this book down. It became a page-turner on my commute to work (both ways) and there won’t be another one like it. Ultimately, Naomi must decide what’s worth the perfect ending. It’s so spicy.
“One Night on the Island” by Josie Silver
Truth be told, I’ve read “One Day in December” and “The Two Lives of Lydia Bird” by Josie Silver and, while I’d read them again, nothing compares to the author’s new release, “One Night on the Island.”
In this charming rom-com, Cleo scurries out of the country from her editorial job and into the throes of a remote Irish island to celebrate her thirtieth birthday. But, when she arrives, a handsome Boston native is already nice and cozy in what should have been Cleo’s rental property.
This easy-to-follow “opposites attract” novel is heartfelt and gave me all the feels (seriously, I was on the brink of tears at times). It’s phenomenal and worth the read.
“In a New York Minute” by Kate Spencer
I’ve read a boatload of rom-com novels (as if you couldn’t already tell), but when I say Kate Spencer’s debut novel “In a New York Minute” was one of the best ones I’ve read in a while, I’m not kidding.
When Franny is laid off from her interior design job, her dress ends up ripping when caught in a NYC subway door — as if her day couldn’t get any worse. But, when a well-suited man gives her his jacket, they end up going viral on social media.
You’ll just have to read it to find out the rest, but I seriously couldn’t put this one down. I loved all the modern-day language, too, and it is totally relatable if you’re a Gen Z or millennial; this one is such a gem!
“Reminders of Him” by Colleen Hoover
Oh, Colleen Hoover. Like many avid readers, I’ve read a good amount of her novels (like “November 9” and “Verity“), though “Reminders of Him” was the most emotion-packed and beautifully woven together.
After five years in prison due to a tragic mishap, Kenna has her eyes after two things: (1) reinventing herself and (2) reconnecting with her daughter. When she runs into a bartender who’s the only connected trace of finding her, things become interesting.
The ending is the most shocking and hand-to-heart moment I’ve had in a while and, though a bit heavier than other books on the list, you won’t regret reading this one.
“Without a Hitch” by Mary Hollis Huddleston and Asher Fogle Paul
As a new author, “Without a Hitch” is one of those wonderfully woven reads that continues to be a source of inspiration for me. Written by a duo with experience in the wedding planning business, “Without a Hitch” centers on a twenty-something Lottie who lands a new career at an upscale wedding boutique firm where she’s planning lavish, bouquet-filled ceremonies.
But, the kicker: Lottie is faced with planning her ex-boyfriend’s wedding. This novel has a refreshing angle on southern charm, facing your fears and perhaps falling in love along the way.
“It Had to Be You” by Georgia Clark
As mentioned, Clark has my heart for her beautiful writing. “It Had to Be You” is a modern take on “Love Actually,” centering on a handful of NYC natives who are all woven together in some capacity.
This witty rom-com features Liv, who recently lost her husband, and eventually takes over their co-owned wedding business with his secret girlfriend, Savannah — a younger, southern blonde. It’s a sexy and charming tale rolled into one amazing work.
“The First Time We Met” by Jo Lovett
I had the pleasure of reading “The First Time We Met” this year and, even halfway through it, I knew it was going to be one of my favorites.
Izzy has a “love at first sight” moment when Sam walks into her cafe workplace one morning. But, she soon realizes that this sparks-fly connection happens on his wedding day.
After a future of reconnecting, they learn that perhaps these moments are real and meant-to-be. It’s a sweet flip-through that is sure to make you swoon.
“The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood
If you follow new releases, you likely know that “The Love Hypothesis” has received all the acclaim. It’s especially great for science lovers, college students and those who love all things academia.
I especially loved this collegiate-grounded plot, circling a bright PhD student and a professor with a cold interior. It’s another novel that’s a must-read (and, it gets quite steamy), great for fans of traditional rom-coms.
“Weather Girl” by Rachel Lynn Solomon
As a journalist, I, of course, had to read “Weather Girl.” Perfect for fans of “The Ex Talk” (Rachel Lynn Solomon’s other novel I enjoyed), the meteorologist and sports reporter relationship was unique to follow and a delight for the whimsically minded.
Not to mention, it’s relatable to the masses, with undercurrents of mental health advocacy and a whole bunch of weather-related puns, metaphors and proverbs.
“The Singles Table” by Sara Desai
As a devout fan of Sara Desai’s “The Marriage Game,” her recent release is chock-full of Indian culture and romance. After a devasting breakup, Zara is accustomed to sitting at the singles table for her schedule of weddings and happens to cross paths with someone she doesn’t particularly like: Jay.
As a celebrity-obsessed lawyer, Zara strikes a deal with Jay to play matchmaker for him if he’ll connect her to his roster of connections. It’s unpredictable, well-written and a lovely warm-weather read.
“The Charm Offensive: A Novel” by Alison Cochrun
One of our staff picks, “The Charm Offensive” follows an anxious tech genius doing some career rehab by agreeing to appear on a reality dating show where’s he’s the star. As Charlie begins his journey awkward and closed off, producer Dev’s mission is to get him to open up more and appear more comfortable with the women vying for his heart. But the two connect on a much deeper level, and, well…you’ll just have to read it to find out what happens next!
“As one of my favorite books of all time, I particularly love the audio production since it uses two narrators to read both Charlie and Dev’s point-of-views,” said Tricarico.
“The Wedding Ringer” by Kerry Rea
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be paid to be a bridesmaid? Well, that’s what happened to Willa in “The Wedding Ringer,” and this book deserves way more praise than it currently has.
Filled with strong themes of friendship, love and finding your own path, it’s one of those rom-coms that’s not cliche and will keep you on your toes.
“Cheat Day” by Liv Stratman
I absolutely love how brilliant “Cheat Day” is, Liv Stratman’s debut novel. With a double entendre of cheating in love and cheating with your diet, it’s one of the most realistic takes on love and “figuring it out,” that I’ve read.
Also, if you’re keen on books that take place in New York, the quaint Brooklyn bakery scene will steal your heart.
“The Husbands” by Chandler Baker
I am already getting revved up when typing my brief review of “The Husbands,” a suburban murder mystery and marriage tale that I’m still thinking about after reading.
When successful attorney Nora stumbles across a swanky suburban neighborhood, Dynasty Ranch, she knows it would be the perfect spot to continue packing the kids’ lunches and replacing the toilet paper — things her husband doesn’t do, which leads to some angst.
Her soon-to-be neighbors fill her in on a recent murder, surrounding a fire, and ask her to represent the case. Little does she know that she’s investigating much more. It’s amazing and one of my favorite books I read recently.
“Love at First Like” by Hannah Orenstein
I absolutely adored Hannah Orenstein’s rom-com, “Love at First Like,” focusing on Eliza, who accidentally posts a photo of her wearing an engagement ring from the jewelry boutique she co-owns with her sister. When sales skyrocket, she decides to fake a “secret fiance.”
On a quest to find love, she ends up meeting someone special. It’s a modern-day novel that’s worth diving into this spring, along with her upcoming release, “Meant to Be Mine” (which is next on my list).
“Bless Your Heart, Rae Sutton” by Susannah B. Lewis
Beautiful cover aside, “Bless Your Heart, Rae Sutton” is a well-written book that focuses on Raeley, who’s mourning the loss of her recent marriage. When she’s an honorary member of her late mother’s circle of friends, it perfectly weaves in love among all ages.
What a refreshing read! It’s witty, touches on love and is great if you adore that heartwarming, Southern Belle writing style. Add this to your list (you won’t be sorry)!
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