How One Woman Took Homemade Kombucha Mainstream

Dec 22, 2017

Ever since kombucha hit the scene, people have gone gaga for the fermented drink. Whether you brew your own kombucha or make tasty cocktail mixers with the probiotic powerhouse, if you’re crazy about kombucha, you’ll want to know more about how this Health-Ade co-founder took her recipe for homemade kombucha and turned it into a successful brand. In this week’s How to Quit Your Day Job, we chat with Daina Trout, who started Health-Ade with her husband and best friend, about how as a new mom she balances her best self with her work.

Meet the Kombucha Pro: Daina Trout

After graduating from Tufts University with a masters’ degree in nutrition and public health, Daina Trout moved to Los Angeles and worked a full-time corporate job. Trout made her own kombucha while in college, but while talking with her husband, Justin, and best friend, Vanessa Dew, she experimented with making a stronger, healthier SCOBY (the symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast) and found that her new brew tasted better than any kombucha on the market. In 2012, she brewed batches of Health-Ade in her apartment closet while selling bottles at her local farmers’ market, alongside Justin and Vanessa. Over time, Trout and her Health-Ade co-founders built the small business into a national brand, quit their corporate day jobs, and now sell their beverage in major retailers like Whole Foods, Sprouts, and Target.

Brit + Co: What’s your morning routine?

Daina Trout: It’s changed since I’ve had a baby, that’s for sure! I wake up to my two-year-old, who’s ready for his morning milk at around 6am if I’m lucky, otherwise it’s earlier. My husband and I switch every day — one takes the “Hendriks” shift, and the other works out. If it’s my day to work out, I rush to a 6:30am Flywheel class, drive back home, wolf down some yogurt, dry shampoo the heck out of my hair, throw on some cute(ish) clothes, and do my makeup while driving to work. I have to get out of the house by 8am to be at the brewery at 8:30, which is when our day starts. If it’s my morning with Hendriks, his wake-up call (literally) is followed by what you’d expect — two hours of me and him getting ready for our day — milk/coffee, teeth, clothes, and breakfast. Two hours seems like an eternity — but trust me, somehow a two-year-old makes this almost impossible to do on a daily basis. No matter which day it is, I get to work and I’m like, “Damn, I’ve already had a morning!” I have a kombucha first thing at Health-Ade, and it gives me that second wind that carries me through the rest of the day.

B+C: What inspired you to start your company?

DT: My co-founders (my husband Justin and my best friend Vanessa Dew) and I all felt unfulfilled at our corporate jobs, and we knew we had it in us to start something game-changing that we could build ourselves. That was really the inspiration — the belief that we could make a meaningful mark. I had been making kombucha for some time before Health-Ade, and we had an opportunity to start selling my kombucha in the farmers’ markets while we were working on other entrepreneurial ideas. Once we saw the potential in Health-Ade at the farmers’ market (we would sell out usually by 10am), we knew we had something special. It was time to make our mark.

B+C: How do you challenge yourself as an entrepreneur?

DT: Just show up, and there’s a guaranteed challenge awaiting you. Seriously though — the difference between a “job” and being a founder is in my experience the following: Each day is made up of a whole bunch of problems you have to solve fast, each one challenging your intellect and capability in a new way. It’s a constant challenge, and you’re constantly out of your comfort zone — therefore, you’re always growing.

B+C: Tell us about how your family and friends help support your business.

DT: I don’t know what I’d do without my family, my friends, and my nanny. They help in so many ways. Health-Ade doesn’t allow for a lot of extra “space” in my life — and often last-minute things come up that force me to stay at work. My family helps by letting me stay at work and get it done. They’ll pick up my dry cleaning, take care of Hendriks, cook dinner, even do my grocery shopping if I need it. My friends help by keeping me focused. They pick me up when I’m feeling down — and this is very important for a founder. Founders get lonely, and it’s very hard at times. You don’t always have people you can talk to, and you feel an enormous amount of pressure. This can be distracting and take you off the ball. Friends offer perspective and love when you need it so you can get back on track. The most important person in my life, though, is Justin, my husband and co-founder. Justin picks up every piece of slack. He’s my true partner in all of this — friend, family, nanny, lover, confidant, house manager, and assistant when I need it. And hopefully he would say the same about me. There is NO way this would work without him.

B+C: What’s the best advice you’ve ever gotten?

DT: Just do it. You’ll figure everything out. Just like you always have.

B+C: What do you love about your job?

DT: I believe I have many characters within me that need attention and strive for “the driving seat.” This job calls them ALL out for their fair airtime — the innovator, the creative, the dreamer, the doer, the helper, the problem-solver, the inspirer, the actor, etc. I love that the work I do at Health-Ade satisfies all the different sides of my personality.

B+C: Name two female heroes who you think should get a shout-out.

DT: Vanessa Dew, my co-founder and “sister from another mister.” This girl has an unbelievable ability to not get stuck. She is such an incredible doer that nothing will stop her. She inspires me, because when I get tired — and I see she should be tired too — she’s just found a way to pick herself up and keep going like it “ain’t no thing.” I love that about her. She’s fierce. The other is my executive coach — Barbara Poole. She has heard it all from me, from tears to fears, and she always has the best advice. I feel like she’s a smarter, wiser version of me, and I get to check in with her every two weeks to grow up a bit. I’m really amazed — she gives me 100 percent presence when we speak, and in one hour I’ve usually figured out how to overcome a very big challenge.

B+C: If you could tell aspiring creative women anything, what would it would be?

DT: Follow your gut! It’s the best thing to do when you don’t know what to do. Tap in to all your strengths and go for it.

What’s your dream career? Tweet us @BritandCo to let us know, and we could feature it in the next column!

(Photos via Health-Ade)

Um, Julia Schlaepfer Told Us Spencer & Alex Would "Barely" Reunite Before '1923' Season 2 Premiered

Considering the popularity of Alex and Spencer's relationship in 1923, it might surprise you to know Julia Schlaepfer was nervous to bring the "special" story to life with actor Brandon Sklenar. "I was a little nervous because I was like, 'This is such a big universe and I want [fans] to love it as much as they love 1883 and Yellowstone,'" she tells Brit + Co exclusively.

Here's what Julia Schlaepfer had to say about Brandon Sklenar, Alex and Spencer, and Harrison Ford in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 season 2 interview.

Julia Schlaepfer says filming '1923' with Brandon Sklenar felt like a "secret."

Emerson Miller/Paramount+

"Brandon [Sklenar] and I, when we were filming [season 1] in Africa, we would talk all the time about how it felt like we were making this really secret little indie movie together because we were so separate from the rest of the cast," she says. "Everything was so new to us, we were in Africa, and so it kind of felt like a secret. It felt like a very personal thing."

She didn't quite realize just how special 1923 was until she finally got to see the show's opener. "I'll never forget actually, [when] our producer Michael Friedman showed us the opening credits for the first time," Julia adds. "We were in Malta and we were doing the swimming sequence and he was like, 'I have to show this to you guys because I don't think you know how special it is.'"

"Our names pop up right after Harrison Ford and Helen Mirren and we all, like, cried together, and I think I was like, "Oh, this is so exciting and big,'" she continues. "It's been so special and I'm really glad that the fans like it."

But for the new episodes, Julia Schlaepfer and Brandon Sklenar "barely" saw each other.

Yep, after countless fan edits, I can confidently say fans love Alex and Spencer — but (to my utter heartbreak), Julia teases we'll see way less of her and Brandon onscreen together this time around after season 1 split up their characters in the finale.

"It was very separate," she says of filming the upcoming episodes. "I mean, we block shot as well, so we were all kind of coming in at different times to film, but no, we did not [see each other a lot...Season one we spent all our time together, this season we barely spent any time together. It was very much like, suddenly we were ripped apart. But that's what the characters are going through."

Now, this is a huge tease for what to expect from 1923 season 2 (and might even be a spoiler) because some fans' biggest questions are: What episode does Spencer get home in 1923 season 2? When are Alex and Spencer going to reunite?! Unfortunately, it looks like it'll take a bit before we see them together again.

Even though it was an "odd" and "isolating" thing, and a "totally opposite experience" from filming the first season, Julia says the split "works for the characters this season, you know. It was very helpful as an actor because that's what they're going through as well."

Fans can expect to see a whole new side to Alex in '1923' season 2.

Lauren Smith/Paramount+

Even though Alex is on her own, it was important to Julia that she still have that "sparkle" we all love. "It was about digging deep and finding a more scrappy side to her," she says. "It was tricky because I didn't want to lose Alex's sparkle, I didn't want to lose the vivacious, happy side of her, but she's going through something completely different. So bringing the core of who she is and what she stands for and how deeply she loves and how bravely she lives combined with, you know, the fear and the determination was, it was a really great challenge as an actor. But yeah, we see a lot more grit from her this season, I would say."

And not only does Julia love Alex's grit, but she's inspired by her ferocity.

"Since starting season one, I'm like, 'I have to live like that,'" she says. "She follows her happiness like so fiercely and I was like, 'Why aren't I doing that? What can I do to bring more joy to my life and to live as honestly as she lives?' I've learned a lot from her."

Read up on The 1923 Season 1 Ending, Deaths, & Betrayals, Explained before season 2 premieres! And check out our interview with actress Michelle Randolph, where she teases we'll finally "fill in some blanks" in the Dutton family tree!

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

This post has been updated.

The Top 10 Most-Watched Netflix Shows To Watch This Weekend

Netflix's March shows brought us ton of incredible titles like The Residence and With Love, Meghan, but those are only two of the buzzy series you can watch right now. Audiences can't get enough of these top Netflix shows — and they make for the perfect weekend watch. Stop scrolling and start enjoying!

Here are the top Netflix shows on March 28, including Adolescence and The Residence.

1. Adolescence

Netflix

In this Netflix show, 13-year-old Jamie Miller is arrested when a girl at his school winds up dead. But the most shocking part for a lot of viewers? Each episode is done in one shot.

Adolescence stars Owen Cooper, Stephen Graham, Ashley Walters, and Erin Doherty.

2. The Residence

Eerin Simkin/Netflix

Coming in at number 2 is The Residence, which is a wacky whodunnit that takes place during a White House state dinner. Viewers are saying it gave them the same thrill as Knives Out, which is a VERY high recommendation in my book.

The Residence stars Uzo Aduba, Randall Park, Giancarlo Esposito, Edwina Findley, Molly Griggs, Jason Lee, Ken Marino, Al Mitchell, Dan Perrault, Bronson Pinchot, Julieth Restrepo, Mel Rodriguez, Susan Kelechi Watson, Isiah Whitlock Jr., and Mary Wiseman.

3. Million Dollar Secret

Netflix

Top Netflix show Million Dollar Secret is a reality competition that brings 12 strangers to a lakeside estate. One of the 12 will receive $1 million upon arrival, and they get to keep it as long as no one discovers who's got the cash.

Million Dollar Secret is hosted by Peter Serafinowicz.

4. Harlan Coben's Caught

Berna Rode/Netflix

Harlan Coben's Caught follows Ema Garay, an Argentinian journalist that exposes criminals who get away with their crimes. And her newfound friendship with Leo Mercer gets upended when he becomes the prime suspect in her latest investigation.

Harlan Coben's Caught stars Soledad Villamil, Juan Minujín, and Alberto Ammann.

5. Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

Netflix

This docuseries revolves around a treasure supposedly hidden in the mountains outside of Santa Fe — and the poem that holds the key to their location. And one community of treasure hunters are determined to find the truth.

Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure is a top Netflix show right now.

6. Survival of the Thickest season 2

Netflix

Survival of the Thickest season 2 is finally here — and it's already a top Netflix show! Mavis is juggling her life, her styling business, and her new singleness, and she's doing it with the people she loves.

Survival of the Thickest stars Michelle Buteau, Tone Bell, and Christine Horn.

7. Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

Jocelyn Prescod/Netflix

Chelsea Handler is exploring it all in this Netflix comedy special: unusual encounters, her first adventures in business, and even her own birth.

Chelsea Handler: The Feeling is hosted by Chelsea Handler.

8. Temptation Island

Netflix

Four couples are walking onto an island in this top Netflix show, and a group of singles awaits them. How many couples are going to walk back out? You'll have to watch and see.

The original Temptation Island couples include Alexa and Lino, Shanté and Brion, Tyler and Tayler, and Ashley and Grant.

9. Weak Hero

Netflix

Intelligent Yeon Shi-eun is much more than just a student. And thanks to his mind and his tools, he's able to fight against the violence closing in around him.

Weak Hero stars Park Ji-hoon, Choi Hyun-wook, and Hong Kyung.

10. Running Point

Netflix

It's not too late to watch this Netflix show, which follows Isla on her journey as the new President of the Los Angeles Waves basketball team. It's funny! It's heartfelt! It's worth a watch!

Running Point stars Kate Hudson, Brenda Song, Drew Tarver, Scott MacArthur, Fabrizio Guido, Toby Sandeman, Chet Hanks, Max Greenfield, Keyla Monterroso Mejia, Roberto Sanchez, Uche Agada, and Dane DiLiegro.

Check out The 9 Best TV Shows To Watch On Netflix This Month for more!

netflix pop culture entertainment

Barbie Ferreira Just Revealed If She'd Work With 'Euphoria' Costar Sydney Sweeney Again

Barbie Ferreira and Sydney Sweeney worked the Euphoria fandom into a tizzy when Sydney posted an Instagram photo of the duo together. They're all smiles in the photo, which Sydney captions, "as sweet as apple pie." Well, Barbie's all smiles when I bring it up in our interview — and she spills on whether she'd work with Sydney again.

Here's what Barbie Ferreira had to say about that Sydney Sweeney reunion — and if she'd work with her Euphoria costar again.

Barbie Ferreira felt "supported" by Sydney Sweeney at her recent Broadway show.

When I bring up how excited the internet was over her photo with Sydney Sweeney during our conversation for her new movie Bob Trevino Likes It, Barbie can't help but laugh. And as for whether we'll see her onscreen with Syd post-Euphoria?

"I hope so!" Barbie Ferreira tells Brit + Co exclusively. "I love Sydney. She came to see my play on Broadway Cult of Love, shout out. She was shooting in Jersey and then I think she had a short day and called me, and she was like, 'Can I get tickets for tonight?' I had no idea that she was gonna come. It was so beautiful to be supported like that, especially like in a live theater. It was unexpected and I'm just so happy she came to support."

She's also on good terms with the rest of the 'Euphoria' cast.

Barbie, who played Kat Hernandez in HBO's Euphoria from 2019 to 2022, announced her exit from the show after season 2 — and rumors started swirling that a fallout with creator Sam Levinson meant reduced screen time in the second season. But according to the actress, Kat's arc had run its course.

In April 2023, Barbie told Dax Shephard that "both parties knew that I really wanted to be able to not be the fat best friend. I don’t want to play that, and I think they didn’t want that either.”

“I think instead of me kind of lingering around for nine months, I think it was best for both of us that we just ended it there,” she also told The Viall Files podcast in March 2025. “Of course it's hard — I love Euphoria. I love Kat. Kat means the world to me. I mean, I spent so many years pouring everything into her, but it's like, you don't want to ruin a good thing."

She also goes on to explain that “it was a mutual decision" and that "everyone decided that...there was nowhere to go."

“I saw Hunter [Schafer] the other day, I saw Maude [Apatow] the other day, Sydney [Sweeney] came to see my play,” she continues. “Whoever is in town, we always try to see each other."

And you can see Barbie Ferreira's new movie now!

Roadside Attractions

In her new role as Lily Trevino in Bob Trevino Likes It, Barbie Ferreira plays a grieving young woman who's disowned by her father, then forms a Facebook friendship with a man who shares his name. The movie catapulted me back to my 13th birthday when I could finally sign up for a profile, and Barbie also looks on the social media platform fondly.

"It's been making a little bit of a renaissance for me because of Facebook Marketplace," she admits (she loves to sell furniture online). "It's to connect with family and people that you love, that is the best outlet for it. So I think it's actually one of the more wholesome social media outlets. It's not about followers, it's not about who has the most likes. It's about connecting with your friends and family, so I think it's a kind of wholesome we should bring back."

If you're also craving something wholesome, check out Bob Trevino Likes It — it's a real tearjerker!

interview euphoria sydney sweeney pop culture celebrity

24 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Spring is here and it's brought the promise of more riveting new books with it! Bookish readers will love getting lost in our most-anticipated recommendations by authors Sarah Damoff, Allison Raskin, and more! We know how much you love rom-coms, but we've also included mystery, romantasy, and self-improvement titles to give you a range of TBR picks to choose from.

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Sisters Cassie and Zoe Grossberg were once the the greatest pop stars ever. Known to the public as The Griffin Sisters, their hits coupled with public appearances made them ultra popular. However, their personalities have always been different and it's part of what eventually drove them apart.

Between Zoe being a mom and Cassie living an obscured life, the only person who seems to have an idea of what happened to their careers is Zoe's daughter Cherry. But the only way the past can be healed is if everyone's willing to confront it and reconcile the lives they currently live.

Amazon

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

Nikki's been caught in the middle of a strange feud between her mom and grandmother, so she's shocked when the latter wants her to visit. Before long, Nikki arrives in North Carolina and hopes to discover what happened to the women she loves. Instead, her grandmother begins to tell her about a forgotten kingdom that her great-great-great grandmother Luella was queen of. Adding to Nikki's astonishment is the revelation that her grandmother is telling the truth based on the artifacts the young woman finds hidden in the hills.

Sadly, there are people who are threatening to completely erase the Kingdom of Happy Land's history which leaves Nikki in charge of saving it.

Amazon

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

Emery Hooper and Lilah Chang may be Asian students who attend Derrymore Academy, but that's where their similarities end. While the adopted Emery has perfectly assimilated into the culture around her, she finds Lilah to be a cringey representation of Asians. She's also unsure why Lilah is working so hard to be her friend.

But over time, Emery begins to see how much she's subject to covert racism despite being wealthy. It's what eventually unites her and Lilah because they begin to see how much some things can't save you from harmful rhetoric that's ingrained in society.

Amazon

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

Ryan and Lillian Bright may have built their marriage on love, but their secrets eventually tear them apart. It's something their daughter Georgette witnesses, causing her to back away from their once close-knit family. But even her plans are changed when Lillian's secret son appears. This forces Georgette to learn more about her family so she's able to see if love can save everyone.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan starts off living a life that every woman dreams of in the 1960s. She has it all — the cushy husband, kids, and comfortable life — and it seems like she's content. However, a perceptive person would be able to pinpoint how unfulfilled she is. It's something she wasn't willing to admit until her new neighbor Charlotte Gustafson moved to Concordia.

Charlotte's mysterious and intriguing, prompting Margaret to start her own book clubwith two other women. Soon, she, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv begin meeting to dissect The Feminine Mystique. It's a classic book that begins making them question their suburban lives which opens them up to even more books that help them challenge the status quo.

Though they didn't anticipate this, these four women's friendship becomes a sturdy foundation during the most pivotal year of their lives.

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Couples therapist Emma Moskowitz's life is left in shambles when the abrupt end of her engagement upends her wedding, career, and book plans. As far as her audience knows, she's skilled at matters of the heart so she feels like she's letting everyone down when she comes up short in the romance department.

Unwilling to give up her wedding date, Emma concocts an intriguing plan to find someone who's willing to marry her in the next 6 months. Call it desperate, but sharing her plans online garners a ton of attention that leaves her torn between a podcast produced named Will and the divorced Matt. But, you can't possibly find love that'll stand the test of time in such a short amount of time...right

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Ofosua Addo thinks she's found the love of her life when she and Cole Drake kiss for the first time, but there's two problems. One, she's an heiress to a vast empire and two, she's supposed to marry someone else her mother approves of. Being a good daughter means forging ahead with her wedding, but it comes crashing down in flames.

On her path to self-love and discovery, Ofosua and Cole cross paths again. This time, they'll have to remember why they fell for each other and if their love can cancel out tradition's strict protocol.

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Jimmy Baker used to be a famed hockey player, but his career ended when he made a drastic decision. Since then, he's been a Zamboni driver who doesn't make waves in Bitterfrost, Michigan. It's not the life he wanted, but he has no other choice but to atone for his mistake. His days are mostly eventful until he's suddenly accused of a double murder he doesn't remember committing.

With the odds stacked against him, Jimmy will have to figure out what happened and if he's as violent as everyone says he is.

Amazon

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

Claire and Aaron Litvak's worlds come to a halt when they learn their daughter Lindsey's been hurt in China. Not only is she in critical condition, but the unlucky parents begin realizing her life in Shangai might not have been as linear as they thought. The only person who may have an idea of what happened is Lindsey's adopted sister Grace, but can Claire and Aaron piece together the truth before it's too late?

Amazon

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

The Merrick siblings are used to beautiful California summers because they know they're guaranteed to have fun with their parents. However, a secret picture taken of them begins circulating and it puts them in danger. Years later, the patriarch of the Merrick family is being honored when a nosy journalist finds them and begins poking around their past.

The siblings will have to decide if they're ready to deal with the truth or if they're going to continue burying things like they've always done.

Amazon

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Instead of using her intelligence to better the world, Ruth makes her money as a robber who targets banks. In a just a few years, she's managed to steal over $250 million thanks to her cyber smarts. But her clever plan is halted when she triggers an alarm that puts her in danger.

Now considered a high-level threat who could possibly help a government agency, Ruth tries to evade the agents on her trail who don't care how they capture her. It's clear their obsession with her borders other feelings, but Ruth isn't waiting to find out what they are.

Amazon

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

Young orphan Tommy's disappearance from Coram House in the late 1960s became an unsolved mystery that's haunted Lake Champlain ever since. It's the very case that's could restore true crime journalist Alex Kelley's career, so she jumps at the chance to lend her skills to a book about the orphanage Tommy once lived at. However, the stories surrounding him are complicated. Plus, Alex gets more than she bargained for when she stumbles across a dead woman's body floating in the lake.

She's convinced there's a connection between this and Tommy's case, but officer Russell Parker doesn't take her seriously. But he'll have to because more people are dying and Alex could be next.

Amazon

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

Nautical archaeologist Haven Ambrose is supposed to be figuring out why ships keep wrecking in Positano, but she's also curious about what her father saw the last time he dived into the beautiful water. As soon as she arrives in town, strange things begin occurring that she has no explanation for.

The more she digs into her investigation, the more she unearths the chance of something magical at work. Despite one woman's desire to save the people she loves, she could've possibly cursed the Amalfi Curse and it's up to Haven to stop it before everything's ruined.

Amazon

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

Student journalist Tess Azar wants to know why someone was killed in the writing program she's been lucky to be admitted to. As she investigates, she learns that something amiss is going on and it may involve a cult. There's also a growing right-wing group of students that are threatening to create more hysteria.

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The kingdom of Lumathyst may be destroyed soon unless the four immortal god-princes can secure their mate. Unfortunately, none of the women who have come before them have been suitable and they're running out of time. The issue is that the woman they choose will need to become immortal like them, but the process is brutal and doesn't guarantee survival. But Rylee Gray may be their saving grace if they don't uncover what she's hiding.

Amazon

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Orrun has been peaceful ever since Bersun the Brusque ruled over it, but it's time for someone else to ascend the throne. So, everyone who considers themselves worthy begins to compete for the #1 spot because they think they have what it takes. But an untimely murder leaves High Scholar Neema Kraa scrambling to discover the murderer. What she doesn't know is that there are forces who are more than willing to help her and keep her out of harm's way at all costs.

Amazon

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

Wilder awakes to the realization they're able to decipher all languages. Dealing with confusion, they find safe haven with other witches who have also "awakened" to their hidden abilities. There's:

Quibble, a portal traveler
Artemis, a caretaker and seer
Mary Margaret, a powerful telekinetic individual

As soon as Wilder gets comfortable, something evil in the form of AI threatens everything they and their coven's come to know. Before long, their group has to contend with how much is too much when it comes to magic and artificial intelligence.

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Autors Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood have on thing in common: they're parents of children who have autism. This has united them in more ways than one, leading them to write Autism Out Loud with the goal of sharing their firsthand insights. Readers will learn about everything from the diagnosis process to what it looks like to raise a child who has autism.

Amazon

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

Sometimes moms need a reminder they can have a few minutes to themselves which is why Erin Morrison's compiled Three Minutes for Mom. Each day will feature an opportunity to look at strengths and areas of growth, but readers will also discover boundless encouragement for one of the toughest jobs in the world.

The Best Self-Improvement Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

Blavity's founder Morgan DeBaun is here to share her success secrets with you. She built a powerful platform that aims to empower the Black community and knows that it helps to abide by certain principles that'll help propel you towards the career you want to have. Whether it's challenging certain rules or encouraging you to think outside of the box, readers will learn how to live the lives they want.

Be sure to visit Rewrite Your Rules for a robust look at how you can be living your best life!

Amazon

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

This one's for all the couples who are still dealing with burnout. Dr. Morgan Cutlip knows there's no such thing as 50/50 in relationships, but that doesn't mean your relationship is doomed. In A Better Share, Dr. Cutlip explores things that affect partners like the mental and emotional load of everyday life. There's also great insight about how libidos are impact when people feel things aren't balanced or "fair." So, buckle up and get ready to transform your relationship.

Amazon

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

Featured in our best podcasts article, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are back with their first book How to Giggle. Instead of listening to them, readers will have a written account of how these two friends navigate life. From awkward moments to realizing men don't have to be the center of everything, you'll get a kick out of the joyous way they tackle real moments.

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

Amazon

A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Can't get enough of ACOTAR? Now you'll get a chance to cook meals inspired by the famous BookTok series! You'll find over 50 recipes that the creatures of Prythian eat (aside from carnivorous moments), that'll make you feel like you have a seat at one of the High Lord's table. Better yet, you'll become a pro at cooking meals that would make them pay you a visit!

Amazon

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Alix Traeger doesn't expect you to be 5-star chef because life's too short for that. However, she does know you're interested in cooking meals that impress your family and friends. Inside of Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impress are recipes that even the most hazard-prone cook will find easy to follow. From girl dinner-esque appetizers to evening meals, anyone can have fun with Alix's cookbook!

Subscribe to our newsletter for more of the spring picks we can't stop obsessing over!

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

romance books mystery thriller self improvement book recommendations entertainment

Our All-Time Favorite Products From Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Amazon's Big Spring Sale is here, and we've hand-selected our 56 all-time favorite Amazon products that just so happen to be heavily marked down. From high-tech home products to chic decor pieces and on-trend fashion finds, these products are the best of the best, and they won't be on sale for much longer.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

Sweep Up Effortlessly With This Stationary Vacuum

Amazon

Simplify cleaning with a stationary vacuum that effortlessly picks up stubborn dust, hairs, and fibers. Featuring a dual filter system, it cleans your floors and purifies the air, making it a seamless addition to any home.

How One Woman Took Homemade Kombucha Mainstream

Meet the Kombucha Pro: Daina Trout

11 Easy ​Anti-Inflammatory Snacks You Can Make At Home

Um, Julia Schlaepfer Told Us Spencer & Alex Would "Barely" Reunite Before '1923' Season 2 Premiered

Here's what Julia Schlaepfer had to say about Brandon Sklenar, Alex and Spencer, and Harrison Ford in Brit + Co's exclusive 1923 season 2 interview.

Julia Schlaepfer says filming '1923' with Brandon Sklenar felt like a "secret."

But for the new episodes, Julia Schlaepfer and Brandon Sklenar "barely" saw each other.

Fans can expect to see a whole new side to Alex in '1923' season 2.

The Top 10 Most-Watched Netflix Shows To Watch This Weekend

Here are the top Netflix shows on March 28, including Adolescence and The Residence.

1. Adolescence

2. ​The Residence

3. ​Million Dollar Secret

4. ​Harlan Coben's Caught

5. ​Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

6. ​Survival of the Thickest season 2

7. ​Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

8. ​Temptation Island

9. ​Weak Hero

10. Running Point

Barbie Ferreira Just Revealed If She'd Work With 'Euphoria' Costar Sydney Sweeney Again

Here's what Barbie Ferreira had to say about that Sydney Sweeney reunion — and if she'd work with her Euphoria costar again.

Barbie Ferreira felt "supported" by Sydney Sweeney at her recent Broadway show.

She's also on good terms with the rest of the 'Euphoria' cast.

And you can see Barbie Ferreira's new movie now!

24 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

The Best Self-Improvement Books Debuting In April

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Our All-Time Favorite Products From Amazon's Big Spring Sale

Sweep Up Effortlessly With This Stationary Vacuum

This Suit Set Was Made for Cool Girls

This Tummy Control Shapewear Is a Total Confidence Booster

This High-Waisted Swim Skirt With Pockets Is a Summer Style Win

Cleanse Your Face Using These Scrubs

Master Chef’s Secret Weapon

This V-Neck Waffle Knit Tee Is Your New Go-To Everyday Top

Step Up Your Style with These Ultra-Comfy Wedge Sneakers

The Striped Tee Taking Over Summer

This Magnetic Screen Door Is the Summer Hack You’ll Wish You Bought Sooner

Brighten & Hydrate

Say Goodbye to Unwanted Hair

Flattering and Comfortable Leggings

This Face and Neck Moisturizer Is the Secret to Smoother, Glowier Skin

This Tankini Top Is Your New Poolside Favorite

Outdoor Relaxation in Style

These Under-Cabinet Lights Instantly Upgrade Your Kitchen Vibe

Glossy Perfection

These Wireless Earbuds Deliver 60 Hours of Playback Without Missing a Beat

This Electric Spin Scrubber Makes Cleaning Feel Effortless and Fun

This LED Medicine Cabinet Brightens Up Your Bathroom Instantly

11 Easy Anti-Inflammatory Snacks You Can Make At Home

2. The Residence

3. Million Dollar Secret

4. Harlan Coben's Caught

5. Gold & Greed: The Hunt For Fenn's Treasure

6. Survival of the Thickest season 2

7. Chelsea Handler: The Feeling

8. Temptation Island

9. Weak Hero