Yeah, Dua Lipa Launched Another Celeb Book Club. Here Are 8 Reasons We Already Love It.

service95 dua lipa's book club

You and I have chatted about all the best reads for awhile, from mysteries to rom-coms, but did you know about all the titles in Dua Lipa's book clubService95? I admittedly had zero idea about it until recently, and couldn't believe how many thought-provoking recommendations she has.

There are two things that differentiate Dua Lipa's book club from others I've covered. The first is that Service95 has a range of global storylines that highlight historical moments, identity, love, sex, and betrayal. The second is the fact Dua Lipa shares her thoughts about her monthly reads onsite.

If I'm being 100 percent honest, it feels like Emma Watson's former book club and Dua Lipa's are cousins because they open the door for important conversations that aren't always steeped in escapism. I love immersing myself in spicy romance and thriller books, but I'm also moved by those that make me think about society and the world at-large.

Here's the top 8 reads I'm personally going to start with.

Service95's July 2024 Pick:

Amazon

Noughts + Crosses by Malorie Blackman

Noughts + Crosses reverses the roles of the racism and classism we're familiar with. Readers are introduced to the Crosses and the noughts in a world where privilege looks vastly different. Sephy is a gorgeous, dark-skinned girl who's lonely despite the wealth that surrounds her. She's also not a fan of how unfair life is for those who are less fortunate than her, including Callum, whose only duty is to serve the upper crust of society.
Despite their differences, Sephy and Callum have been friends for as long as they can remember, but their friendship has grown into a burning passion they eventually give into. But because their love is extremely forbidden, they'll have to fight for it, especially against those who will stop at nothing to tear them apart.
Here's what Dua Lipa said about the moving novel:
"Noughts + Crosses is set in a parallel world that resembles Britain, in which Black people (Crosses) are the ruling class, and white people (noughts) exist as second-class citizens," said Dua Lipa (via Service95). "Although written over 20 years ago, Sephy’s father would not be out of place in today’s populist political landscape. As Sephy and Callum’s relationship evolves, questions are asked about love, betrayal and belonging. It’s pacey, romantic, tortured and enlightening. What more could a young reader ask for."

Service95's November 2023 Pick:

Amazon

The Vanishing Halfby Brit Bennett

Though the Vignes sisters are identical twins, they lead different lives as adults. One sister remains in the Black community they grew up in while the other passes as a white woman. What's interesting is that not only does this sister's husband know nothing about who she really is, but both twins have daughters.
No matter how much they've tried to escape their past in their own way, the sisters' lives continue to intersect. This has a trickle down effect on their daughters, who are the unintentional faces and voices of the next generation in their family.
Here's what Dua Lipa said about the moving novel:
“This book brilliantly surfaces a multitude of questions about race, class, and gender, told through a family drama that spans three generations in 20th-century America," said Dua Lipa (via Service95). "I was struck by how the novel so cleverly raises questions of heritage and identity while remaining non-judgmental, empathetic, and full of heart. I raced through this book and I’m sure you will too."

More Of Dua Lipa's Recommendations:

Amazon

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams

Single mother Eva Mercy is raising her daughter while juggling a successful career as an erotica author. She's made a point to shield her daughter from her traumatizing past, but her world is shaken up when popular novelist Shane Hall tentatively waltzes into her life again.
Years ago, they fell for each other before Shane ghosted Eva without an explanation. She tried to bury the hurt in her heart, but it becomes obvious the two have been using their books to write to each other for years — and there's no question they're still attracted to each other.
Eva and Shane will have to ask themselves if they can truly sustain a healthy relationship, or if it'll play out the same way it did all those years ago. Check out the latest news on Seven Days In June Is Getting The TV Show Treatment!

Amazon

Becoming Cliterateby Laurie Mintz, Ph.D.

I'm not squeamish when it comes to talking about sex, but there are still some topics I'm not 100 percent well-versed on, and I'm not alone.
Dr. Laurie Mintz, Ph.D. wrote Becoming Cliterate as a way to breakdown all the fluff we've been fed about sex and gender via pop culture. She even broaches the topic of women's orgasms and a glaring pleasure gap that exists by sharing hard-hitting statistics. She shares evidence from sex therapy, sociology, and more to back up her findings while even giving readers a thorough anatomy lesson.
It's a great read for anyone who wants to change the way they approach thinking about their own pleasure.

Amazon

Queenieby Candice Carty-Williams

Queenie Jenkins spends her time living in London while navigating her mid-20s. She often finds herself torn between between a Jamaican British woman and wonders where she fits in exactly.
She also struggles with being her job's unintentional DEI person, and the hard separation from her long-term boyfriend. The pressure mounts until Queenie starts self-medicating with behaviors & vices that aren't doing anything good for her.
In the midst of it all, Queenie has to decide who she truly is and what matters most to her.

Amazon

Beautiful Star by Yukio Mishima

Beautiful Star's Osugi family are all from different planets. The dad is from Mars, the mom is from Jupiter, the son is from Mercury, and the daughter hails from Venus.
Instead of letting this knowledge tear them apart, the family forms a deep bond that convinces them to seek out others who may be like them. Also, it's also up to them to end a very dangerous nuclear war that could destroy all of humanity.

Amazon

The Vagina Monologues by Eve Ensler

Even before I truly knew what this Dua Lipa book club pickwas about, I understood that it had a huge cultural and societal impact.
Eve Ensler's The Vagina Monologues birthed a global movement aiming to stop the rampant violence against the female gender. It's a take on everything women fear, rage, and fantasize about in a refreshingly honest way. I like to think of it as a call-to-arms for women to believe we are worthy of feeling safe and free in the bodies we inhabit.

Amazon

Fates and Furiesby Lauren Groff

Fates and Furies peels back the layers on a marriage spanning over two decades. Lotto and Mathilde start off being the picture-perfect couple that everyone admires, but there's an undercurrent of difficulty that those on the outside haven't been able to see.

Contrary to popular belief, marriages aren't ever one-sided because it consists of two people who are likely from different backgrounds, and have differing perspectives. Lauren Groff does an amazing job at explaining that even the longest marriages have their secrets.

This book makes for a perfect read because it shows how often we say things like, "That couple is #relationshipgoals," without truly knowing what happens behind closed doors.

Follow our Amazon storefront to see more amazing books you should read!

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Header images via Amazon

Jessica Simpson and her husband Eric Johnson have decided to go their separate ways. After 10 years of marriage, Jessica revealed on January 13 that they've been "navigating" a "painful situation" that arose in their relationship, three months after sources told TMZ the singer reached out to a divorce attorney. But despite the shift in their relationship status, there's one thing Jessica and Eric are focusing on.

Here's what Jessica Simpson had to say about her split from Eric Johnson.

Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson are "focusing" on their kids amid their split.

Jessica Simpson explained her decision to split from husband, former NFL tight end Eric Johnson, with whom she shares three children: 12-year-old Maxwell Drew, 11-year-old Ace Knute, and 5-year-old Birdie Mae.

"Eric and I have been living separately navigating a painful situation in our marriage," Jessica told People. "Our children come first, and we are focusing on what is best for them. We are grateful for all of the love and support that has been coming our way, and appreciate privacy right now as we work through this as a family."

The popstar celebrated her kids' return to school in September with a super sweet Instagram post. "Maxwell, Ace and Birdie y’all make your Mom beam with smiles and grace !" she says. "Keep on showin’ up for yourselves with each step of the way through this new school year! I’m so very proud of y’all for individually shining your light so that in return others feel the glow."

Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson met in 2010 through a mutual friend, and ended up getting engaged six months after they started dating. They were married in July of 2014, where Maxwell and Ace were the flower girl and ring bearer.

The "I Wanna Love You Forever" singer celebrated their 10th anniversary with an Instagram post in May 2020, saying, "I fell head over slippers in love with this perfect man 10 YEARS ago today! By chance he knocked on my dreamy cottage door (sigh), I let him in and never let him leave. He is mine, I am his…forever."

And the couple's decision to announce their separation comes after Jessica posted about "putting up with everything I did not deserve" and about how "life is short."

"SMILE while you still have teeth," she jokes.

We're sending Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson lots of love. Check out Brit + Co's Weekend Newsletter for more celebrity updates.

Kitchen renovations are no joke – they're a major investment, so you’ll want to think twice before committing to fleeting trends — especially for big-ticket items like cabinets, countertops, and appliances. I’ll admit it: I’m still without a backsplash five years later because I can’t commit! While it’s perfectly fine to follow your heart if you love a particular look, kitchens can quickly feel outdated when you lean too heavily on short-lived fads. To help you create a timeless, stylish space, we’ve rounded up outdated kitchen trends to avoid — and easy ways to modernize if your kitchen is stuck in the past.

Scroll to see if you have these outdated kitchen trends in your house right now!

Mark McCammon

1. All-White Kitchens

The all-white kitchen craze has officially run its course, often feeling cold and sterile — like say a doctor’s office. Today’s kitchens are all about warmth and character, with palettes in soft neutrals, earthy greens, or bold, moody shades like oxblood and midnight blue. Choose a color that speaks to you for a timeless, inviting space you'll love for years to come.

Pixabay

2. Granite Countertops

This early 2000s trend has been overdone and feels so dated now. Marble, sleek quartz, even butcher block are more classic choices.

Curtis Adams

3. Ornate Cabinetry

The color and detail of this traditional kitchen feels drab and dated. Instead, look for flat-panel or Shaker-style cabinets with clean, minimal lines.

Terry Magallanes

4. Farmhouse Decor

This kitchen is a lesson is don'ts. The grey vinyl flooring (especially hideous!), farmhouse stools, and white cabinetry hail from a decades-old trend that needs to disappear in 2025.

Home Depot

5. Glass Mosaic Tiles

Glass mosaics, popular in the 2000s and 2010s, tend to lean toward a transitional aesthetic, which is the opposite of an organic, minimalist, or vintage-inspired design kitchen are craving now. The grout lines are bit difficult to clean too between all the tiny tiles. Zellige tile or a slab of marble are a more sophisticated look for today's kitchens.

Level 23 Media

6. Black & White

The stark contrast between black and white can come across as harsh and overly dramatic, a look that peaked in the 2010s. The farmhouse sign doesn't help warm it up either. Soften the look with earthy, natural tones.

Curtis Adams

7. Subway Tile

Subway tile is classic, so there’s no need to rip it out if it still brings you joy. However, the white subway tile paired with dark grout has overstayed its welcome. This overdone trend became so ubiquitous that it lost its charm and individuality, leaving kitchens looking more cookie-cutter than full of character.

Amazon

8. Industrial Lighting

This nod to the past needs to, sorry, stay in the past. Look for organic, natural forms and lighting that reflects your kitchen's unique aesthetic.

Shutterstock

9. Tuscan Style

This rustic kitchen feels dated with its heavy, ornate features like dark wood cabinetry and trim. Go for clean, brighter spaces.

Shutterstock

10. Tile Countertops

Natural stone, marble, and wood are trending for 2025. Grout-filled countertops like this one are not. Time to go!

Max Vakhtbovycn

11. Moroccan Mosaic Tile

Kitchens are becoming elegant places to cook, eat, and gather. This busy design can look cheap. The white mid-century Eames-style chairs, sorry to say, are also out.

Andrea Davis

12. Barn Doors

Using barn doors between the kitchen and other spaces is a look that is officially out. They proved to be not that functional and the look is now dated and too kitschy. Buh bye!

Check out our online newsletter for more home decor inspo!

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

New year, new relationship status. The shift from 2024 into 2025 has already seen its fair share of heartfelt proposals — and its fair share of heartbreak. Believe it or not, we're only a couple of weeks into the new year and there are quite a few splits among our favorite celebrity couples. And some of them I simply cannot believe.

Here are 2025's biggest & craziest celebrity breakups...at least, so far.

Austin Butler & Kaia Gerber Break Up

Presley Ann/Getty Images for W Magazine

Kaia Gerber and Austin Butler might have called it quits (reportedly at the end of 2024), but thanks to a TMZ source, we know they're still on good terms. And that the relationship "simply ran its course."

Jessica Alba And Husband Cash Warren Split

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

It appears that Jessica Alba and Cash Warren are "moving forward" with a divorce following their 16-year marriage (and after showing up to events without their wedding rings), according to a TMZ source.

Jennifer Lopez And Ben Affleck Settle Their Divorce

Kevin Winter/Getty Images

This breakup isn't technically new information, but the fact Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck settled their divorce is. They'll both reportedly take what they earned during their marriage (and won't pay spousal support). Ben will also keep his stake in his production company with BFF Matt Damon, Artists Equity.

Naomi Osaka And Cordae Call It Quits

Theo Wargo/Getty Images

Naomi Osaka confirmed her split from Cordae in a recent Instagram story. “Hi everyone, just wanted to say that Cordae and I are no longer in a relationship,” she said (via E! News). “No bad blood at all, he's a great person and an awesome dad.”

Brandon Routh And Courtney Ford Announce Their Divorce

Amy Sussman/Getty Images for Entertainment Weekly

These DC Legends of Tomorrow stars announced their split with a joint Instagram post on January 10. "To everyone who has loved and supported us, we have some personal news to share," the post reads. "After 21 years together, and 17 years of marriage, we have decided to begin a new journey and enter this next chapter of life as friends and co-parents. We are now and forever rooting for each other as we move through this wild adventure called life. Our son is, and will always be, our highest priority."

After his breakout role as Spencer Dutton in 1923, and his take on Atlas in Colleen Hoover's viral It Ends With Us(opposite Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni), there's a very good chance you'll recognize Brandon Sklenar. And if not, it won't take long. In addition to his upcoming roles in thrillers The Housemaid and Drop, the actor will lead a brand new biopic about Olympic rowing champion Brad Alan Lewis (which feels very timely considering his Housemaid costar Sydney Sweeney is starring as boxer Christy Martin!).

Here's everything you need to know about Brandon Sklenar's Brad Alan Lewis biopic, The Olympian.

'The Olympian' script has been a favorite since 2016.

Based on Brad Alan Lewis' Assault on Lake Casitas, the movie follows Brad, who has one last opportunity to compete as a rower in the 1984 Olympics before he ages out. But when he loses his spot on the Olympic team, Brad pairs up with fisherman Paul Enquist to go rogue, beating the official Olympic boat in the national trials and winning America its first gold medal in rowing since 1964. Talk about an underdog story!! (Plus 2+ hours watching Brandon row? Yes please).

Despite the fact the movie's never been made, The Olympian script was on The 2016 Black List, an annual list of popular screenplays that have yet to be turned into movies. But it's finally writer-director Tony Tost's time.

And it's the perfect movie to watch before the 2028 Olympics.

It's still super early in the moviemaking process, meaning we don't have too many details, but considering the 2028 Olympics will once again be held in Los Angeles, there's no better time to bring this inspiring true story to the big screen!

We don't have info on The Olympian cast or release date quite yet, but stay tuned for everything you need to know about this new movie.

Next month, you can watch Brandon in 1923 season 2, which hits Paramount+ February 23 and is the "best thing" the actor's ever read.

"The finale of the series is probably one of the best things I’ve read in my life," he told Forbes. "I’ve kind of known how it was going to end since day one — Taylor [Sheridan] kind of told me. I knew the full arc of Spencer from day one, so in shooting part one, you're mindful of where he needs to go. I’m really excited."

Considering I haven't been able to stop talking about this show since I binged all of season 1 in a couple days, I'm really excited too, Brandon.

Thankfully there are quite a few new Brandon Sklenar movies on the horizon. Hoping to see him as Atlas Corrigan again? Here's what he had to say on a potential It Starts With Us movie.

Valentine's Day is almost here, and whether you're single or happily taken, you can always have an amazing time celebrating the season with your best girlfriends. We're channeling our inner Leslie Knope this Galentine's Day with 50 ideas for spending it with your squad. From gathering your girlfriends for a Galentine's Day party or embarking on an epic road trip, now is the time to plan your February weekend with the best of your friends, near and far.

Scroll on for 50 Galentine's Day ideas to celebrate with your girls!

The Best Galentine's Day Ideas For 2025

Brit + Co

Add Some Pink With These Taylor Swift Fuzzy Dice

Pink is always a good idea when it comes to Valentine's Day decor, so for any of your Galentine's Day parties this year, DIY these Taylor Swift fuzzy dice inspired by "Cruel Summer"! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Make DIY Galentine's Day Candy Boxes

Send your best friends home with adorable candy boxes that may or may not be used as trinket trays later on. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Have A Bachelor Marathon

Calling all Bachelor fans! Catch up on new episodes from your favorite season by hosting a marathon viewing party. Not a Bachelor fan? Try one of these Netflix originals that are perfect for Galentine's Day. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

DIY Galentine's Day Fort

Camp out with your BFFs in this homemade fort that's just as much fun to make as it is to relax in! It's the perfect Galentine's Day idea at home. (via Brit + Co)

A Beautiful Mess

Host A Nail Pampering Galentine's Day Party

Pamper yourself and your BFFs with a nail design party! Put out bottles of their favorite polishes and create a fun playlist of your favorite love songs. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Host A Galentine's Day Bake-off

BFFs stand together even when they're single or happily taken. Host a delicious bake-off with your gals to see who can get the most creative in the kitchen! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Make Conversation Heart Care Packages

For friends who live near and far, make these sweet care packages filled with their favorite things. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Host a Galentine's Day Party Game Night

Play Gin Rummy with your favorite gin cocktail, dominoes, charades, whatever floats your game-loving boat! Don't forget the candy charcuterie! (via Brit + Co)

Taylor Simpson

Plan A Girl's Getaway

Here are the happiest cities in the world. Grab your girls and escape winter for an amazing Galentine's Day weekend you'll never forget. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Take a Class Together

Film photography is cool again. One reason to get creative with your gals with a day of fun learning and doing. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Host a Brunch

Our epic Galentine's brunch menu has everything from red velvet heart waffles to DIY centerpieces to Galentine's card writing stations. Thisgem-inspired brunch is a fun idea, too! (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Have A DIY Party With Planters

Get a jump on spring decor with an easy DIY planter party! With a few basic steps, you and your girls can create living wall decor to decorate your space for February and even all the way through the summer months. (via Brit + Co)

Shutterstock

Host a Cookie Party

Check out our list of 30 Valentine's Day cookie recipes and start a holiday cookie tradition, G-Day style! (via Brit + Co)

Element5 Digital

Go On A Road Trip With Your Gals

You don't have to spend your Galentine's Day party inside. If you're not near the beach, you can take a day trip instead. Some ideas include visiting a ski resort, going for a hike, or exploring that small town you've been meaning to hit. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Have A Puppy-Love Play Date

Galentine's Day isn't just for humans. Invite your BFFs and their furry friends over for a puppy-love playdate. If you want to keep things a bit more relaxed, host a movie night and ask your friends to bring their dog beds, too.

Aww Sam

Host A Mean Girls Movie Night

Prepare for a cozy night in with your ladies by catching up on one of the most classic flicks (or the newmusical update!). Set the tone for the night with a DIY burn book vase that doubles as a hilarious take-home treat. (via Aww Sam)

Sasha • Stories

Have A Beach Day Picnic

If you live on the coast, host your Galentine's Day gathering at the beach. Make sure you bring your favorite beach bag, a pair of sunglasses, and perhaps some bubbly!

Kelsey Chance

Have A Wine Tasting

You and your girls love your wine, so use the day as an excuse to host your very own rosé tasting party.

Brit + Co

Hit The Slopes

An adventurous way to get outdoors and spend time with your ladies is to take advantage of the snow. Go skiing or snowboarding, or build a snow(wo)man. Then enjoy après ski cocktails!

Brit + Co

Have A Pool Party

If you live in a warmer climate (or have a heated pool), throw a fun G-Day pool party complete with all of the essentials like vino, floaties, and sunhats.

Brit + Co

Host A Parks & Rec Marathon

The best way to celebrate Galentine's Day is by honoring the creator, Leslie Knope, with a Parks and Rec marathon viewing party. Ask your ladies to supply the booze, and you can serve up the snacks and the show — or any of our other favorite feel-good TV shows.

Brit + Co

Host An Outdoor Dinner + Movie

Your ladies deserve a get-together that's sure to give each gal the much-needed fun she deserves. Host a movie and dinner for your ladies, outdoors if the weather permits. Step up your party with favors, swag bags, and a night of unlimited drinks.

Shutterstock

Have A Karaoke Party

What better way to start off your Galentine's Day shindig than by belting out a few tunes with your favorite ladies? Yep, we didn't think we'd have to tell you twice.

Brit + Co

Go on A Hike

Keep up with your health goals with an active day outdoors. It's a great way to bond with your girlfriends and with nature.

No Revisions

Book A Spa Day

What better way to show self love than to book a much-deserved spa day with gal pals. You'll feel refreshed and recharged.

Brit + Co

Zoom With Surprise Takeout

Bestie live in another state? Plan an evening Zoom call and send each other dinner delivery for a fun gab session and thoughtful Galentine's Day gift. Oh, what a night!

More Galentine's Day Party Ideas

A pom pom and lantern wall is literally the perfect way to add some texture to any Galentine's Day party! Plus, you can reuse them for upcoming bachelorette parties and baby showers.

Take a simple white table cloth (bonus points if it's paper) and paint "XOXO" across it for a personalized, romantic addition to your table.

Never underestimate the power of gold letter balloons. They're our favorite!

In lieu of flowers, fill some of your favorite vases with all kinds of red and pink candies.

If a pure candy charcuterie board is overwhelming, opt for a mix — supplement chocolate, marshmallows, and strawberries with meat and cheese for a board that's both lunch and dessert.

Mix up your Galentine's Day party mimosa bar by providing different juices and different garnishes that your guests can choose from.

Letter boards are a super easy and super fun way to add spunk to your party. Plus, they don't take up a lot of room, so that's a win-win for us!

Grapefruit juice is the perfect addition to your Galentine's Day party's pink cocktails — or to sparkling water for a low-key mocktail.

Candlesticks, jars, cake trays, oh my! The more dishes, the better as far as we're concerned.

It's easier than ever to find super cute, super sassy napkins. It's a small touch that goes a long way!

Mini bottles of champagne aren't just good for your Galentine's Day party — have everyone write a goal on their bottle, and wait to pop it until that goal is achieved!

Find heart-shaped plates to add extra romance to your tablescape.

Galentine's Day Party Favor Ideas

Miniature potted plants are as cute as can be, and when they're wrapped in pink napkins? To die for.

Cupid would totally approve of these red candy kabobs.

If you have a collection of white bags for your Galentine's Day party favors, go crazy with the designs! Draw hearts, arrows, or write a little note to each of your friends.

Nothing says "I love you" like knowing your friend's favorites — which means you'll knock beauty product gift bags out of the park.

Red lollipops get a fruity upgrade when you wrap their sticks in green tape. Voilà!! The cherry on top of all your Galentine's Day festivities.

Wall envelopes are the perfect place to stash all your candy — or a super artsy Galentine's Day note.

Less is more with a Galentine's Day party favor that lets your BFF know how much she means to you.

A little bit of thoughtful wrapping makes a colorful bouquet even more beautiful than it already is!

Add tiny bows to all your champagne bottles for a true coquette party theme.

Use a pair of scalloped scissors to turn regular gift bags into something even more eye-catching!

Galentine's Day party favors don't *just* have to be candy and cards — celebrate your friends' hobbies with thoughtful gifts, too!

We'll literally never say no to chocolate, especially when it includes flower petals!

Looking for more reasons to get together with your girls this Galentine's Day? Follow us on Pinterest for even more ideas!

This article has been updated from a previous post with additional reporting by Sarah Koller and Theresa Gonzalez.