10 Best Bachelor Nation Books, From Rom-Coms To Tell-Alls

Kayla Walden
Jun 25, 2024
Bachelor Nation Books

Given the release of Hannah Brown's newest rom-com book, we can't stop thinking about all the other BachelorNation works that we've seen over the many years of the show. We've had tell-alls, biographies, cookbooks, financial books, and even more romance novels! The Bachelorette star, Rachel Lindsay was the first to cover to delve into the latter genre, and now we can add another to that list with Hannah Brown's latest release, Mistakes We Never Made!

With this newest addition to the ever-growing list of #BachelorNation books, we took it upon ourselves to rank our top 10 favorites from top to bottom for all your summer reading plans! So buckle in, because we've got a book for every topic you could need!

Amazon

The First Time by Colton Underwood

This book was highly awaited for so many, because of the drama surrounding Colton after his season aired. He jumped a fence, fell in love with a girl, then he came out as gay when the two broke up. It was a lot of things packed into one year, so everyone was waiting for this release to get the scoop! He doesn't get too vulnerable in this book, it mostly just covers his life up until his relationship with Cassie, but it gives great background and context to their breakup!

Amazon

Alone In Plain Sightby Ben Higgins

In this book, Ben Higgins talks about the feeling of not being seen or known by people. He shares "how he found authentic connection with himself, with others, and with God" in this tell-all book about his life. He gives practical and spiritual advice to those who are feeling the same as he did for many years of his life; searching for connection.

Amazon

It's Not Okayby Andi Dorfman

Probably one of the more notorious and popular Bachelor Nation books, this tell-all was one of the more juicy reads we got from the franchise! Everyone wanted to hear Andy's side after her engagement ended, and she showed us just that! She gives great, and practical advice on how to move on after a break up, and find the brighter side to your story.

Amazon

Made For This Moment by Madison Prewett Trout

Everyone was completely shocked by the turn of events in Pilot Pete's season. The whole internet lost it over the drama with his final rose ceremony, and they were equally shocked over Madison's ability to stay true to who she was and her beliefs. This book shows her depiction of the events as well as how she "proved that she was fully prepared to stand up for what she believed in — even in the most challenging moments."

Amazon

Talk Money to Meby Jason Tartick

One thing Jason believes should happen in the fantasy suites? Financial conversations and questions. This financial self-help book goes over essential questions about finances you should ask someone you're in a relationship with. He says that this is the key to thriving and successful relationships, so he details all his major tips and advice to reach success in this area, independently and together.

Amazon

Real Loveby Rachel Lindsay

Rachel Lindsay wrote this rom-comabout a highly successful woman falling in love with a free-spirited, traveler named Kai. She falls in love with him, but doesn't want to give up the career that she's worked so hard for. Read this book for a fun read about having to choose between your career and love...or perhaps getting to keep them both?

Amazon

You Deserve Betterby Tyler Cameron

Tyler Cameron had all of Bachelor Nation falling in love with his defense of Hannah Brown, and out-right chivalrous behavior the whole season for that matter. He was charming, confident, and respectful, so what's more to love? In this book, he goes through how he became the gentleman he is today, while giving advice on how develop strong connections and great relationships. Read this for an insight into who Tyler Cameron really is.

Amazon

First Impressionsby Matt James

Of course, we have to cover Tyler Cameron's bestie, Matt James. His season was full of ups and downs, but what we're most interested in was his ability to confront hard questions about race head-on. In this book, he does exactly the same through discussing topics like race, identity, forgiveness, and family! This is definitely a must-read in the franchise and just what we needed to see from Bachelor Nation. (A request to Matt James: Please do a food tour book next, the TikToks aren't enough)

Amazon

God Bless This Messby Hannah Brown

We've made it to one of our favorite Bachelorettes of all time, Hannah Brown. She took the world by storm (or should I say windmill...?) with her iconic season. Her leading men were charming, a bit crazy, funny, and filled with drama — and we ate the whole season up. She tells stories we've never heard before, both from her personal life and from the show and how through it all she's learned to keep true to her identity.

Amazon

Mistakes We Never Madeby Hannah Brown

This book was such a surprising release from Hannah, and yet it makes so much sense! She wrote a beautiful story about two friends rekindling their on-again, off-again romance as they help their friend who's about to get married. This could be inspired by true events between her and Tyler C...but either way, it makes for a great story and really refreshing read. Hannah and her co-writer did a great job with this perfect summer read, which is why we are ranking it up top at #1! it just came out a few weeks ago, so definitely check it out!

What books will you be reading from Bachelor Nation? Let us know on Twitter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

All images via Amazon.

"Solorettes" Are So In — Why Brides Are Swapping Bach Parties For Solo Travel

Weddings can be overwhelming, with months of planning, decision-making, and family stress. If you're feeling overwhelmed with the idea of planning yet another event with friends for your bachelorette, consider a break from tradition and booking a solo vacation instead. Getting away before the wedding gives you time to unwind, reflect, and mentally prepare for the big day and this major life transition. Here are six reasons to take a solo trip before you tie the knot, plus the best places to visit as a solo traveler!

Case #1: You Have Total Control Over The Experience

Andre Furtado

Group trips often come with compromises — everyone has different interests, budgets, and energy levels. A solo vacation allows you to design the perfect itinerary that fits your needs, whether you want to spend the day hiking in a national park, sipping coffee at a café in Paris, or simply reading a book by the beach, it’s all on your terms.

Solo Travel Idea: Spa Weekend In Sedona, AZ

Spencer Davis

Located two hours north from Phoenix, this small town is a destination for brides-to-be who want a bit of rest and relaxation and a nature-inspired spiritual boost. As soon as you arrive in town, you're struck by the intense beauty of the legendary red rock buttes that surround the town. There are forests filled with pine trees, junipers, and cacti, as well as a stunning canyon and peaceful creek. While Sedona is known for its natural beauty, it's also a hotbed of activity. There are hikes, bike rides, wild jeep tours, spa treatments, spiritual readings, and a delicious sprinkling of restaurants. Check out Mii Amo for an all-inclusive wellness getaway. Here you’ll find casitas with private balconies, in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs, as well as a new restaurant called Hummingbird. The Hummingbird menu includes items like salmon ceviche, duck breast, poulet rouge, and gluten-free and vegan selections. Daily guided meditations and special presentations and ceremonies (Canyon Bathing, anyone?) create an ideal environment to slow down and refocus. At the Enchantment Resort next door, you’ll find additional amenities you can use while exploring the surrounding 400 miles of trails.

Case #2: Enjoy A Moment Of Solitude Before Marriage

Andrea Piacquadio

This is an exciting time as you prepare to start a new life with your partner, but a solo vacation gives you one last opportunity to focus entirely on yourself. Use this time to reconnect with who you are as a person, separate from the roles and responsibilities that come with marriage and growing a family.

Solo Travel Idea: Kiss A Stingray On The Cayman Islands

Cayman Islands Department of Tourism

From chic hotels and villas to luxury wellness experiences, this destination is the prime spot for a solo bride-to-be to unwind. Stay at the Palm Heights Hotel, a picturesque beachfront stay located on Grand Cayman's Seven Mile Beach, one of the Caribbean’s most visited stretches of white sand. Enjoy pool time under the iconic yellow umbrellas at Tillie’s, and visit the Garden Club spa next door for everything from rejuvenating facials to body care and massages. You can also opt for Hotel Indigo, which is just steps away from Seven Mile Beach and features a rooftop bar, Pom Pom. Take a leisurely morning horseback ride or swim with Spirit of the West. Kiss a stingray for seven years of good luck at Stingray City, and make time for some R&R at VIDA through rooftop yoga sessions, spa treatments, organic cooking classes, paddle boarding, and more!

Case #3: No Friend Drama

Angelo Pantazis

Bachelorette weekends often involve managing group dynamics, which can be stressful and take away from the fun. Drama, misunderstandings, or conflicting schedules can make the trip more about managing others than celebrating you. By going solo, you can enjoy peace and quiet, focusing on your personal joy and relaxation without distractions.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Chocolate Tour In Vancouver, BC

Adi K

Vancouver, Canada is the solo trip destination for brides-to-be looking to experience a little bit of everything, from breathtaking nature and wildlife to music festivals and incredible dining. Stay at the Granville Island Hotel, a beautiful boutique hotel located on the waterfront of Vancouver's artisan district: Granville Island. Explore Granville Island Public Market, a bustling market with fresh produce, artisanal goods, and gourmet treats. Take a guided tour by a master chocolatier. Don’t miss local favorites like Lee's Donuts, the seafood at The Lobsterman, and artisanal cheeses at Benton Brothers Fine Cheese. Visit the Federation Gallery or Eagle Spirit Gallery for Indigenous art, and watch glassblowing at the New-Small & Sterling Studio Glass. Vancouver International Wine Festival takes place each spring. British Columbia is also home to seven National Parks, and you can find the city’s live music scene offers everything from alt-country to old-fashioned rock ‘n roll, and experimental jazz.

Case #4: Stay on Budget

Jared Ng

Bachelorette parties, especially destination ones, can get pricey when factoring in group accommodations, meals, and activities. A solo vacation allows you to better manage costs, as you can choose exactly what you want to splurge on or save on. You could opt for a luxe hotel stay with a massage, or go for a budget-friendly backpacking trip — either way, the trip is curated entirely to your preferences and budget.

Solo Travel Idea: Cul-indulge in Singapore

Ingo Joseph

Singapore was recently rated as the #1 safest city in the world, making it the perfect destination for brides looking to travel alone before their big day! Brides-to-be can feel secure while exploring the city in nature, getting pampered at top-ranked holistic spas, shopping and trying new cuisines. Stay at the Capella Hotel, rated the #1 best hotel in Singapore and winner of Travel + Leisure World’s Best Award for 2024. Give yourself a full pre-wedding revamp through holistic therapies, such as the Eu Yang Sang TCM Clinic, which provides the ancient remedies of Traditional Chinese Medicine with the balms and tonics sold at Eu Yang Sang. Get some fresh air by exploring the city's parks and gardens, such as the stunning Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect spot for a picnic, a jog or a reprieve from the buzz of the city. There are also outdoor trips such as Pulau Ubin, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, and Henderson Waves Bridge. Michelin also awarded more than 50 Singapore restaurants with MICHELIN Stars this year. Try Candlenut, where Chef Malcolm Lee serves up flavors inspired by his grandmother's traditional Peranakan dishes; Labryinth, specializing in New Singaporean cuisine; or Born, offering a blend of classic French cuisine and bold Chinese influences housed in a building that dates back to 1903.

Case #5: Escape The Stress

Mika Baumeister

Bachelorette parties can be super fun and a great way to bond with your girlfriends, but they can also be exhausting and stressful. A solo vacation can offer quiet moments of reflection and adventure that will create memories that are unique to you.

Solo Travel Idea: Holiday Shop In Paris

Shvets Anna

Here's a bride-to-be getaway, Emily in Paris style. Holiday shop along the Champs-Élysées, where trees are lit up in spectacular red LED lights. While there, grab lunch and a macaron at Ladurée. The cooler temps and smaller crowds make it an ideal time to visit famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower (catch a great view of it in the Christmas village at Trocadéro), the Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral, where you'll find a Christmas market for the season (also check out the one at the Tuileries Gardens). Parisian cafés and bistros are enticing with warm and comforting dishes like onion soup, coq au vin, and decadent pastries. Sip a café au lait at Café Charlot in Le Marais or dig into the stunning bûche de Noël at the Butterfly Pâtisserie in the Hôtel de Crillon.

Case #6: Break Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Julie Aagaard

Traveling solo pushes you out of your comfort zone. You learn to navigate new places independently, solve problems on your own, and meet new people (easier than you would if you're in your comfort zone with friends). Whether it’s learning a new skill, finding your way through a new city, or gaining confidence in your own company, solo travel can be a truly transformative experience.

Solo Travel Idea: Take A Photography Class In Santa Fe

Jeff Hutchinson

B+C founder Brit Morin hosted a creative trip to Santa Fe, and it was the perfect weekend. She started the trip with a photography class at Santa Fe Photographic Workshops and explored the city behind the lens. She stayed at the Inn of the Five Graces — think maximalist style and comfort with a Santa Fe twist. Ofc, you cannot visit Santa Fe without a stop at the Georgia O’Keefe’s Home at Ghost Ranch. Some of Brit's personal highlights: Soaking in the Japanese-inspired tubs at Ten Thousand Waves spa and shooting cowboy photos at Mortenson’s Ranch where celebs like Tom Hanks have filmed movies. "We packed in quite an adventure taking in the art, color, food and natural beauty of the city, all while upping our Instagram game. I cannot wait to go back," she said.

Solo Travel Idea: Fall In Love With A Great Book In Portland, OR

Travel Portland

Portland is also a great escape for the "bookworm bride-to-be" with Powell's Books, the largest independent new and used bookstore in the world. Plus, the cozy coffee shops around every corner. For the romance reader, stay at the Heathman Hotel in Downtown Portland, which you'll recognize from 50 Shades of Grey. Surrounded by dense national forests with Mount Hood peeking over the city skyline, Portland also offers a serene urban wilderness escape. Explore the exotic Japanese Gardens, museums, and unique downtown. Book a stay at Cascada, Portland's first underground thermal springs and spa and sustainable sanctuary. The eco-friendly property offers on-site dining and group fitness classes. Outside its doors, Cascada is located in the popular Alberta Arts District known for its lively street fairs, hip artisan shops and vibrant mural art scene. From James Beard restaurants, award-winning wellness facilities to urban wineries there is no shortage of itinerary highlights to complete a solorette itinerary. Kann by Gregory Gourdet and OX Restaurant by married couple in the kitchen Chefs Greg and Gabrielle Quiñónez Denton are a must-try. Visit the chic tasting room at the female-owned Division Winemaking Co, book a deep tissue massage at Blooming Moon Wellness Spa, acupuncture at Dragontree Holistic Day Spa or mini Hawaiian retreat atKanani Pearl Spa. Portland is a haven for unique boutiques and vintage shops, including women-owned storefronts like Wildfang and Freeland Spirits.

Check out our weekly newsletter for more travel inspo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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17 Vegan Starbucks Drinks & Foods Plant-Based Eaters Need To Know About

Eating out as a vegan can be a true challenge, especially if you don’t exactly know that what you’re ordering is 100% vegan. Fast food faves like McDonald’s and Taco Bell are secretly packed with vegan items, and Starbucks is no exception. From oat milk coffees to satisfyingly savory snacks, you’ve actually got plenty of plant-based choices when you pull up at your local Starbucks.

Scroll on to explore every vegan Starbucks drink and food item you can add to your order!

Vegan Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks

1. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado

This new-to-the-menu espresso drink combines brown sugar syrup and oat milk to balance out the punchy coffee notes.

Starbucks

2. Latte (Iced + Hot)

You can totally enjoy a latte at Starbucks if you're vegan. Their oat, almond, coconut, and soy milks are vegan, plus many of their syrups qualify as vegan, too, if you want to flavor up your drink. According to this Starbucks supervisor, all of Starbucks "clear" syrups are vegan and dairy-free. Starbucks' regular and white mocha sauces and caramel drizzle are also vegan and dairy-free.

Starbucks

3. Americano (Iced + Hot)

Starbucks' Americanos are just water and espresso, so you don't have to worry about any dairy being in there. Optionally, you could ask for a splash of non-dairy milk and pumps of your fave syrup.

Starbucks

4. Brewed Coffee (Iced + Hot)

Same goes for their brewed coffees, including iced coffee. Easily ask your barista to add in some non-dairy milk and a few pumps of syrup if you desire!

Starbucks

5. Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

This vegan cold brew drink is crafted with non-dairy cold foam that's flavored with salted caramel – and it's delish!

Starbucks

6. Nitro Cold Brew

A plain nitro cold brew from Starbucks is fully vegan and dairy-free. You can choose to add a splash of non-dairy milk, if you wish your sip to be a bit smoother and creamier.

Starbucks

7. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

This one's a classic: shots of espresso get shaken up with ice and brown sugar syrup to create a frothy foam, then the drink is topped off with oat milk to cut the bitterness. It's quite a delectable order, even if you're not eating fully vegan.

Starbucks

8. Starbucks Refreshers

All of Starbucks' fruity Refreshers are vegan. Plus, you can can add lemonade, tea, other flavor inclusions like strawberry and peach to add some extra oomph.

Starbucks

9. Iced Black Tea

Their refreshing iced black tea is certifiably vegan, too.

Starbucks

10. Iced Green Tea

If you prefer green tea, Starbucks' offering is vegan-friendly. If you tend to take your tea a bit sweeter, just order it with however many packets of your preferred sweetener, and your barista will add it in.

Starbucks

11. Lemonade

You truly can't go wrong with a lemonade!

Starbucks

12. Hot Teas

Starbucks' hot teas are totally vegan, too. If you want to make them fancier, ask for an additional splash of your go-to non-dairy milk!

Vegan Starbucks Foods

Starbucks

1. Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Now onto the food! First up is Starbucks' oatmeal, which you can fancy up with nuts, berries, and brown sugar. Make sure to order it with water to ensure it stays vegan.

Starbucks

2. Plain Bagel

Surprisingly, Starbucks' bagels are also vegan.

Starbucks

3. Everything Bagel

The plain and everything bagels will work for any vegan eater.

Starbucks

4. Avocado Spread

Plus, you can order your bagel with a side of this delicious avocado spread for a nutritious boost!

Starbucks

5. Spicy Falafel Pocket

This 100% vegan snack pocket is new to the Starbucks menu, but it's already become a fan-favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.

Starbucks

6. Chipotle Almond Dip

You can order the Spicy Falafel Pocket with a side of this fully-vegan Chipotle Almond Dip (AKA Bitchin’ Sauce). Yum.

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Meet The 24 Sexy Contestants Of "The Golden Bachelorette"

The Golden Bachelorette has officially been greenlit to be released this fall, and the very first Golden Bachelorette has officially been named!

Scroll on for everything we know about the upcoming TV show, including casting announcements and premiere date details.

Who is the Golden Bachelorette?

Joan Vassos, a 61 year-old school administrator, will star in the upcoming The Golden Bachelorspinoff as the Golden Bachelorette. She was a contestant on The Golden Bachelor's first season, but chose to leave the show to be with her daughter who was experiencing a medical emergency at the time.

The Golden Bachelor, Gerry Turner, shared his congratulations towards Joan via an Instagram post reading:

"Dear Joan, congratulations on being named the first ever Golden Bachelorette. You will be phenomenal as the new representative of a generation. From one Golden to another... relax, breathe, and enjoy. Gerry."

Winner of The Golden Bachelor, Theresa Nist, spread more love via Instagram Stories. She shared a few smiley photos of her and Joan together with the caption reading: "My dear friend, Joan, I am so excited for you!!"

Who will be part of "The Golden Bachelorette"?

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Jonathan, Pascal, Pablo, Gregg, Jordan, David, Charles, R.J., Gil, Michael, Bill, Guy, Chock, Gary, Keith, Ken, Bob, Mark, Charles, Jack, Dan, Kim, Christopher, and Thomas

The men of The Golden Bachelorette have been announced and it looks like they're going to keep Joan on her toes because they're hot!

If you don't feel like counting, there's 24 sexy grandpas who'll be competing for a chance to win the #1 spot in Joan's romantic life and they have amazing backgrounds.

According to Entertainment Weekly, here's everything you need to know about them:

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Bill, Retired Videographer

Age: 68

City: Portland, OR

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Bob, Chiropractor

Age: 66

City: Marina Del Rey, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Charles K., Portfolio Manager

Age: 62

City: Ranchos Palos Verdes, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Charles L., Retired Financial Analyst

Age: 66

City: Philadelphia, PA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Chock, Insurance Executive

Age: 60

City: Wichita, KA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Christopher S., Contractor

Age: 64

City: West Babylon, NY

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Dan R., Private Investor

Age: 64

City: Naples, FL

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

David H., Rancher

Age: 68

City: Austin, TX

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Gary L., Retired Finance Executive

Age: 65

City: Palm Desert, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Gil R., Educator

Age: 60

City: Mission Viejo, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Gregg L., Retired University Vice President

Age: 64

City: Longboat Key, FL

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Guy C., Emergency Room Doctor

Age: 66

City: Reno, NV

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Jack L., Caterer

Age: 68

City: Chicago, IL

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Jonathan R., Shipping Consultant

Age: 61

City: Oakland, IA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Jordan H., Sales Manager

Age: 61

City: Chicago, IL

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Keith G., Girl Dad

Age: 62

City: San Jose, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Ken O., Property Management Treasurer

Age: 60

City: Peabody, MA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Kim B., Retired Navy Captain

Age: 69

City: Seattle, WA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Mark A., Army Veteran

Age: 57

City: Leesville, LA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Michael S., Retired Banking CEO

Age: 65

City: Denver, NC

Pablo, Retired UN Agency Advisor

Age: 63

City: Cambridge, MD

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Pascal, Salon Owner

Age: 69

City: Chicao, IL

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

R.J., Financial Advisor

Age: 66

City: Irvine, CA

Disney/Ricky Middlesworth

Thomas H., FDNY Chief

Age: 62

City: New York, NY

When will "The Golden Bachelorette" air?

Disney/Ramona Rosales

The Golden Bachelorette airs September 18 on ABC! You'll also be able to stream episodes on Hulu.

Watch The Full Trailer For "The Golden Bachelorette"

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

How can I watch "The Golden Bachelorette"?

According to ABC, The Golden Bachelorette will air on ABC and be available to stream on Hulu the following day. Historically, the different installments of The Bachelor have aired on Thursdays at 8pm ET.

What is the cast of "The Golden Bachelor" up to now?

It just so happens that our most beloved contestants from The Golden Bachelor, Kathy and Susan, have been working on a podcast titled Bachelor Happy Hour: Golden Hour. They've posted tons of episodes dishing on The Golden Bachelor experience.

The pair definitely showed some real chemistry during the first-ever Golden Bachelor, and the podcast is a true testament to their friendship.

“We can finish each other's sentences,” Susan told PhillyVoice about Kathy. “We're night and day, but yet we're the same in a sense. We just roll off each other, and it's so easy.”

As far as the winners of The Golden Bachelor, Gerry and Theresa, things worked out for a bit, but they mutually decided to end their marriage in April 2024. Many speculated that they split because they had settled down in different places of the country and found it hard to relocate for love.

“We looked at homes in South Carolina, we considered New Jersey, and we just looked at homes after home,” Theresa said during an interview on Good Morning America, “but we never got to the point where we made that decision.”

How successful was "The Golden Bachelor"?

According to Variety, the first installment of The Golden Bachelor reached about 43.4 million viewers, making it ABC’s most-watched unscripted premiere on Hulu. The finale amassed 6.1 million viewers, deeming it the biggest episode in Bachelor history in nearly 3 years.

We had so much fun watching the very first installment of The Golden Bachelor, that we just can’t wait to see the roles reversed for The Golden Bachelorette. The hype is very real!

Check back here for more updates on The Golden Bachelorette!

Header image via Disney/Ramona Rosales

This post has been updated.

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Jenna Bush Hager's New Book Club Pick Is A Family Drama That "Will Sweep You Off Your Feet"

What is it about family sagas that seem to make book clubs more interesting? Maybe it's because we know interpersonal relationships can be a little dysfunctional. It could be that we still don't know how to communicate with the people we love the most. Even if we love our parents and siblings, reading about other families' fictional twists and turns gives us a rush of adrenaline.

So it's no wonder Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick feels like something we can read without putting down. It's full of complicated relationship dynamics, love, and reconciling one's identity with their past. You can say it's the perfect read to kick off your 2025 reading goals!

Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club pick and fall in love with one character's journey of self-discovery.

Amazon

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight

Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.

Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.

@readwithjenna/Instagram

Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus

Jenna Bush Hager thinks readers will love The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus because "it's a rich novel" with themes of "friendship and motherhood" (via Instagram). It's so good, she's sure "it will sweep you off your feet (via Instagram).

We hope you enjoy reading about Penn's journey in The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus and encourage you to check out Reese Witherspoon's January book club pick next!

jenna bush hagerbook clubbook recommendationsbooksentertainment

7 New Trader Joe’s Items Under $5 You Need To Try In January

Trader Joe’s loves to keep us on our toes when it comes to their new arrivals. We’re constantly monitoring the aisles to discover all the new TJ’s sweet treats and savory snacks they launch – and these 7 new picks for January 2025 are not to be missed! All of these Trader Joe’s products will run you less than $5, which only makes sealing the deal on your grocery bill easier.

From delicious dips to a very enticing new frozen meal, these are the 7 best new Trader Joe’s finds you absolutely need to try in January 2025.

Trader Joe's

1. Teensy Candy Bars

These tiny little candy bar bites ($2.99) resemble Snickers in the best way possible: layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts are enveloped in a delicious chocolate coating for maximum snackage. We're gonna have to resist eating the whole bag! TJ's even suggests using these bits as decoration for other desserts, like sprinkling some on a scoop of ice cream or baking them into some cookies.

Trader Joe's

2. Olive Tapenade Hummus

Trader Joe's array of dips is simply too good to resist, and this newcomer hummus ($3.49) is no exception! It's a tub of "smooth and nutty" hummus topped with a tapenade comprised of black olives, manzanilla olives, capers, and olive oil to give it a salty effect. It's gonna taste so great as a dip for crackers or as a spread on a Mediterranean pita wrap.

Trader Joe's

3. Organic Concord Grape Jelly

This squeezable grape jelly ($3.49) is nothing short of nostalgic. Trader Joe's says it's "super smooth, joyously juicy, and potently purple," which immediately has us sold on making PB&Js every day now.

Trader Joe's

4. Spicy Chicken Nuggets

Oh, yeah. Bring on the spice with these spicy nuggs ($3.99) that make the perfect easy meal no matter the time of day! Made from all-natural chicken breast and rib meat, breaded with wheat, rice and corn flours, then covered in hot sauce and lightly fried, TJ's has their texture down to a tee. You can easily cook 'em in the air fryer, oven, or microwave before chowing down!

Trader Joe's

5. Crispy Potato & Poblano Pepper Tacos

These halved and fried frozen tacos ($4.99) will totally crush your Taco Bell cravings, since they come together super quickly and contain flavors with mind-blowing authenticity! Each taco is filled with a blend of seasoned mashed potatoes and some "ever-so- slightly spicy" poblano peppers that'll work so well with any dipping sauce, from TJ's salsa to their creamy Jalapeño Sauce.

Trader Joe's

6. Strawberry Mini Hold The Cone!

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Trader Joe's is debuting a new flavor ($3.99) of their classic Hold The Cone! frozen dessert: strawberry! These tiny, chocolate-covered cones are lined with even more "rich" chocolate on the inside, then packed with strawberry ice cream, which TJ's says is crafted with plenty of strawberry purée.

Trader Joe's

7. Caesar Salad Dip

Trader Joe's shoppers have said this new Caesar Salad Dip ($3.69) makes a perfect girl dinner addition– which, if you get it, you get it! The tub starts with a "creamy" base that's then loaded up with Caesar-seasoned sour cream, mayo, anchovy paste, Parmesan, and finely shredded Romaine for the crunch. It's best enjoyed with crackers or veggie sticks to dip, but you could also smatter fried chicken or seared steak in it for some ahh-mazing flavor!

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