How to Quit Your Day Job for a Life of Hand Lettering

Katelan Cunningham
Mar 10, 2015

While we’ll always have a soft spot for the graphic, clean precision of Helvetica, there’s something about hand lettering that’s so personal, elegant and even quirky. As the first installment of our How to Quit Your Day Job series, we’re exploring the scripty, serif (or sans) world of hand lettering so that you can hone the craft for yourself and maybe even make some money doing it. In this series, you’ll get advice straight from professional creatives, links to classes and tons of inspiration to make sure you’re fully equipped to turn your passions into professions.

THE Hand-Lettering PRO: JENNET LIAW

Jennet is first and foremost a designer, who just so happens to have a killer eye for hand lettering. A scroll through her Instagram feed will turn into a stalk and then a “Follow” in no time. After being named one of the Top Letterers to follow on Instagram, she’s been diving further into her passion for lettering most recently by launching her own brand, Fictional Supply. Here are her tips on how you can start making a career out of your creative pursuits.

Be Stubborn. Be Persistent. Ever since Jennet set her sights on design, she’s been obsessed. She told us, “I needed to prove that my passion could support me.” So with admitted stubbornness and persistence, she couldn’t do anything but move forward. After odd jobs waitressing or doing admin, she’d always wind up back at her passion to “sleeplessly pursue design.” She said, “I was such a neurotic kid, but I guess it paid off.”

Pinpoint Your Focus. Design is an immensely expansive profession. We’re talking everything from the industrial designers who craft your favorite coffee machine to fashion designers who start the latest trends. So why, in the vast world of design, did Jennet narrow in on graphic design and further to typography? While she liked that a fine artist’s job may be to express themselves in the hopes of making other people understand them, she liked that, with design, you have to understand other people.

When it comes to type, she can’t imagine not obsessing over it. She said, “What I love about type design is that there are definitely rules, but ones that are asking to be cleverly broken. In that way, typography has always been the perfect playground for me.”

Learn by Doing. While Jennet has a degree from a university, she didn’t go to school for design. She said that her design education was 100% self motivated. “I know how to do a lot of things simply because I’ve made a lot of things.” She said that straying from the expected career path “conditioned her to be scrappy” and to “take curiosity seriously.” She went on to tell us, “Those qualities have never failed me in the real world.”

Know the World Around You. Jennet said that she’d always loved hand-lettering, but there wasn’t always a market for it. As it started to gain an audience, she narrowed in on it.

Your Niche Will Find You. “I’m not interested in being different for different’s sake. I think my work stands apart from others’ as much or as little as my personality does,” Jennet told us. Your handwriting is as unique as you are, so embrace its quirks as you hone your skill.

Work With Intent. This is what will really separate you. Jennet uses her artistic eye to question every decision of each letter she draws. From the thickness of the line to the width of the serif — everything is done on purpose.

Put Things Into Context. Rather than have a designated style, Jennet prefers to design for a project. She said she “enjoys crafting letters that are organic and flowy in an androgynous way,” but a large part of her aesthetic for a project is determined by what it is.

Use a Medium That’s Right for You. Drawing can be scary, even for designers. We’re in such a tech-driven society that if you go to any coffee shop, you’re bound to see one person working with pen and paper to every 20 people on their laptops, and that made Jennet determined to be able to design on a computer — which she still considers a pinnacle achievement of hers. But she’s realized that by whatever means you see fit, you can change the world with design.

Get Social (Media). Jennet keeps busy with referral work as well as inquiries from her online portfolios on sites like Dribble, but Instagram has turned out to be a big draw for her. She said companies will reach out to her directly after seeing her work there. Her Instagram feed has been a great personal supplement to her professional portfolios. She said, “I think that’s why it works. People feel connected to me on a more casual, personal level, which is more pleasant to soak in than a resume or cover letter.” She says she gets a lot of inspiration and motivation from the Insta-community.

It’s Not All Sketches and Doodles. When you’re turning any passion into a profession, time management is key, and Jennet says this was one of the most difficult parts of starting her freelance career. She says, “I have to be my own secretary, legal team, HR department and business manager. Going freelance definitely put a magnifying glass over how terrible I was at those things.” She learned that taking care of emails and contracts at a set time of the day ended up giving her time to “let creative juices flow” and give her utmost attention to every aspect of her business.

Say No. When you start making money through your craft, especially full time, Jennet says to pick the good projects. People may think they’re doing you favors by giving you little projects (for little money), but you’re the one providing a service. That means, sometimes you have to say no. She said, “Everyone told me that young designers should say yes to everything, but that would’ve completely put me out of control of my own direction.”

Jennet’s Final Words of Advice: “Look outside of what already exists for inspiration. The revival of hand-drawn type means that your work can take on fresh, uncharted qualities, so explore more. Be intentional. Be kind to people. Work in earnest.”

Hand-Lettering Classes to Perfect Your Skills

Are you feeling totally motivated and driven to take on a life of hand lettering? Us too. Whether you take it on as a hobby, passion or profession, we’ve racked up a list of killer classes to get you started on your path to type obsession.

1. A Quick Introduction: Right from Brit HQ, get a 90-minute start to what is sure to be a lifetime love of lettering. Danielle Evans of Marmalade Bleue teaches you how to hold your pen, make strokes and create compositions. By the end of the class, you’ll have all of the tools you need to make your own greeting cards and cake toppers. ($19 for a 90-minute class)

2. Getting Started: Want to scroll through the supplies and setup for hand lettering? The iconic Gemma O’Brien gave the ladies at A Pair and a Spare an overview of her process, and it’s another great place to get started. She gives you the dish on what supplies to buy, how to grid out your letters and the full lettering process. Just click on over and give it a read for free! (Free)

3. Process, Process, Process: When it comes to hand lettering and type design, Jessica Hische is is definitely one of the queens of the castle. In her Skillshare class, she teaches her process, from research to criticizing her own work, all based on the workflow from her epic Drop Cap project with Penguin Publishing. Seriously, if this won’t inspire you to become a modern day scribe, nothing will. ($96 for annual Skillshare subscription to view all classes)

4. Concept to Sketch: On Skillshare, Mary Kate McDevitt focuses in on the nitty gritty of those early steps that can really ground your lettering skills with the foundation you need to make some extraordinary stuff. From concept and sketch to refinement, she teaches you in 11 short videos how to really get the most out of your words from the start. ($96 for annual Skillshare subscription to view all classes)

5. Train Your Hand: Sean Wes offers two free courses or an all-out master class full of lesson upon lesson of lettering goodness. From type logos to licensing, he’ll give you the full scope of understanding lettering and mastering the craft with practice and inspiration. ($299 for the 10-lesson master class course)

6. Color and Texture: Mary Kate McDevitt is at it again with the next steps in making your lettering illustrations come to life. From digitizing to adding color and texture to your glyphs, she’ll give you all the info you need to take your words from sketch form to drop-dead gorgeous final pieces. ($96 for annual Skillshare subscription to view all classes)

7. Classic Calligraphy: If you’d rather start with the age old craft of calligraphy, Lauren Essl is your gal. In this 40-minute Brit + Co class, you’ll learn the basics of pointed pen calligraphy from dipping your pen to the dainty details of drawing script numbers and letters. With grids, templates and practice sheets, you’ll be ready to glyph it up. ($29 for a 40-minute class)

8. Time to Make Some Killer Compositions: Now that you can draw all those pretty letters, it’s time to make your words pretty as well. Type artist Jon Contino (who did the title for the film The Book of Life, say what?!) has got you covered with techniques and tricks on how to create type masterpieces with a foundation in hierarchy, spacial design and the history of composition. ($96 for annual Skillshare subscription to view all classes)

We hope this column brings you the inspiration and skills to go forth and create a life you’re stoked about. We’re going to be perfecting our lettering with these awesome classes and stalking Jennet’s Instagram on the daily for more inspiration.

What passion would you like to see covered in our Quit Your Day Job Series? Let us know in the comments!

15 Dreamy Home Decor Ideas I'm Obsessed With From This Stunning LA Renovation

Your bedroom is more than just a place to snooze; it's your cozy space where you can relax, recharge, and express your personal style. Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of celebrity-loved design firm House of Rolison seem to have perfected the bedroom and bath design in this 4 bed, 4.5 bath home in the Studio City neighborhood of Los Angeles. After renovating the outdated home, front to back, they created a luxe and nature-inspired aesthetic that defines their dreamy and inviting spaces. Come inside and take a peek for all the dreamy bed and bath home decor inspiration, and get ready to swoon!

BEFORE: Interior

Photo via MLS listing

The design pair notes that the original home was stuck in the past with mismatched flooring, a dysfunctional sense of flow, and an extreme lack of character.

AFTER: Interior

Photo by Gavin Cater

Amanda and Taylor took advantage of the LA views and tons of natural light by opening up the space, and then adding high-end materials and statement lighting to add charm and sophistication.

Photo by Nils Timm

“The house was extremely dated and choppy up so our goal was to open things up while still having the feel of warmth and cohesion," says Amanda. "We did this through adding natural stone, wood, and warm lighting throughout.”

Photo by Nils Timm

The result? A design that is elevated, functional, and timeless. "We typically let the bones of the house inspire us and let us guide it into what it wants to be," says Taylor. "This house in particular was different from most of our other projects - much more angular lines and harsh divisions between spaces so we had to find a way to soften things while still not trying to make it something it wasn't."

Bed + Bath Inspiration

Photo by Gavin Cater

Amanda and Taylor have perfected the art of blending modern and traditional elements, creating spaces that feel fresh, cozy, and stylish without being overly trendy. “We added cedar beams on the ceilings in some of the rooms and added lighting and warmer tones to add grounding," says Taylor.

Photo by Gavin Cater

The bathrooms share a cohesive look with the home, from the oak flooring, marble and stone, to nature-inspired materials.

Photo by Nils Timm

Vistas from the hilltop were important to capture, especially from the stunning master bedroom. "In the primary bedroom, the large glass windows feel like you're part of the landscape, which is important to us," says Amanda.

Photo by Gavin Cater

Furniture and art are intentional in each of the rooms, creating symmetry, function and a warm minimalism vibe. I especially love the way the rooms transition from light to dark as you walk through the home.

Photo by Gavin Cater

The master bathroom is elegant and refined with a mix of marble, wood, and natural tones.

Photo by Gavin Cater

"Paint and furniture are everything!," says Taylor. She suggests picking pieces that are special and not something you can find at any big box store. "Layer layer layer. Layer throws and pillows, textures and paint colors. The more dimension a room has the more intentional it feels. Dont be afraid to add accent pieces for a pop of color and playfulness," she says.

Photo by Nils Timm

Each bathroom plays into the nature-inspired aesthetic while having distinct features like unique mirrors and vanities.

Photo by Nils Timm

The kids' room is the mini version of the rest of the home, using oak furnishings and cozy, natural layers with a pop of art.

Photo by Gavin Cater

Organic shapes compliment the overall vibe, giving the home an indoor-outdoor California modern feel.

Photo by Gavin Cater

"It's hard to keep an almost 5,000 sq ft home cozy in every space but it is something we prioritize and excel at while elevating it to meet today's needs," says Amanda.

Photo by Nils Timm

A moody bathroom adds a bit of drama to the light-filled space.

BEFORE: Exterior

Photo via MLS listing

The exterior of the home left a whole lot to be desired.

AFTER: Exterior

Photo by Nils Timm

The facade transformation is quite literally amazing.

Photo by Nils Timm

The backyard takes advantage of the surrounding nature and views. Simply stunning!

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Lead image by Gavin Cater

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12 Low-Shedding Dog Breeds for a Cleaner Home (and Less Vacuuming)

Do you love dogs yet dread the constant cleaning that comes with shedding? Countless people can relate.

But while every dog owner knows a little fur is inevitable, certain breeds are known for being lower-shedding.

Whether you suffer from allergies or just want to reduce the time you spend cleaning up hair around your living space, here are 12 low-shedding dog breeds that'll make great additions to your household (without the mess).

Scroll to find out the best low-shedding dog breeds!

1. Poodles

Goochie Poochie Grooming

Poodles are known for their hypoallergenic coats, so they shed very little and are ideal for anyone seeking a low-shedding pet.

This breed also comes in three sizes, the Standard, Miniature, and Toy, and is easy to train due to its high intelligence. Just keep in mind that, regardless of their size, all Poodles require regular grooming to keep their curly coats free from mats and tangles.

2. Bichon Frise

RDNE Stock project

Just like the Poodle, the Bichon Frise is another breed that features a hypoallergenic coat. These dogs are tiny, cheerful, and popular due to their friendly nature.

Plus, they're known for being very smart and trainable, making them great family pets that keep clean up around the house to a minimum.

3. Labradoodle

ten Brinke photography

Originally bred as a hypoallergenic service dog, the Labradoodle is a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle.

These dogs inherited low-shedding coats, thanks to Poodle parents, and are favored for their friendly and affectionate nature. They thrive when given plenty of exercise and early socialization.

4. Maltese

Katya Wolf

Malteses are adorably tiny and cuddly hypoallergenic dogs prized for their silky white coats. They make playful and loving companions, but owners have to stay on top of their grooming routine.

If you prefer that your Maltese has a longer coat, regular maintenance is important to prevent any mats. Otherwise, keeping a shorter "puppy" cut can make grooming much easier.

5. Yorkshire Terrier

JÉSHOOTS

Affectionately referred to as "Yorkies," Yorkshire Terriers are little hypoallergenic dogs with big personalities. They crave attention and are very loyal to their owners.

These pups also shed minimally and can adapt well to a range of households, from cozy apartments to spacious homes.

6. Schnauzers

Sebastian Coman Travel

You may not know that there are three Schnauzer breeds, including the Miniature Schnauzer, the Standard Schnauzer, and the Giant Schnauzer. Despite their size differences, all three are low-shedding.

Miniature Schnauzers are revered for their intelligence and typically weigh between 10 and 20 pounds. Standard Schnauzers, on the other hand, are also known for their smarts and enjoy long walks and mental stimulation. They just can weigh as much as 45 pounds.

Giant Schnauzers can reach up to 85 pounds and are some of the largest hypoallergenic dogs. To keep these pups happy, give them a lot of playtime and exercise.

7. Havanese

Paul Groom Photography Bristol

The Havanese is a little, playful breed that's popular for its charming personality and silky coat that doesn't shed much.

These furry friends adore human interaction, making them devoted companions, and are considered low-shedding. All they need is some regular grooming to keep their coat smooth and tangle-free.

8. Italian Greyhound

Alina Skazka

Italian Greyhounds are sleek and elegant, featuring short, smooth coats that barely shed. Contrary to what their graceful appearance might suggest, these dogs are also very playful, affectionate, and sensitive.

If you're searching for a sophisticated yet loving dog that doesn't require a lot of cleanup, this breed may be your perfect match.

9. Portuguese Water Dog

Julissa Helmuth

Portuguese Water Dogs were first bred to work alongside fishermen. Today, they're regaled for their energy and athleticism, making them a great option for active families.

These dogs also have hypoallergenic fur and don't shed much. If you're an outdoor enthusiast who wants to maintain a fur-free home, the Portuguese Water Dog might be the pet for you.

10. Basenji

Elina Volkova

This unique, cat-like breed is famous for its barkless nature. It actually makes a distinctive "yodel" sound!

Basenjis are very intelligent, playful, and sometimes mischievous, with a high prey drive. Additionally, they don't shed a lot, have minimal grooming requirements, and are often free from usual canine odors.

11. Shih Tzu

Edyttka Stawiarska

The Shih Tzu was initially bred as a companion pet in China and has remained a famous lap dog to this day. They love human company and usually stick to their owners' sides.

But while they're low-shedding, these dogs will still grow a long, luxurious coat that requires regular grooming. Otherwise, you can keep it trimmed shorter for easier maintenance.

12. Brussels Griffon

Mladen Šćekić

Lastly, the Brussels Griffon is a small breed with a rough coat that's non-shedding and simple to groom. That's why these dogs are stellar choices for anyone seeking a low-maintenance pet.

In terms of temperament, Brussels Griffons are smart, affectionate, sensitive, and quite cuddly.

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10 Design Mistakes That Will Make Your Home Look Cheap

For those of us who are passionate about design and decorating, of course, we want our homes to look stylish and put-together, but sometimes life gets in the way and our homes start to look a little neglected. I bought my home four years ago and I'm starting to notice smudges on the walls (lots of 'em), furniture that could use an upgrade, clutter where I never intended, and a lack of cohesion from room to room. This is all to say, no shame if you're guilty of making a few home decor mistakes – we've all been there! But if you're looking to make a few upgrades, here's where you can start, without spending a ton of money. Lighting, maintenance, and just clearing up clutter can make a huge difference in how your home looks, from rags to riches.;)

Home Decor Mistakes Making Your Space Look Cheap

Dated Lighting

Photo by Lina Kivaka

Instead: Look For Sculptural Lighting

Let's start from the top. Sometimes a simple upgrade like new lighting can make such an impact in the room, instantly giving it a more upscale look. Statement lighting in sculptural shapes are on trend and timeless. Think in levels too -- from ceiling to table lamps to create ambience. Too harsh or too dim can make a room feel uninviting and drab too so pay attention to lighting in a room before you completely overhaul it.

Cramped, Cluttered Spaces

Photo by Rachel Claire

Instead: Be Selective With Furniture And Decor

Less is more when it comes to looking elegant, and frankly, not cheap. Remove anything that doesn't feel right in a space (you may find a better spot for it later) and start with the bare minimum. Now start to fill it with furniture and decor that fits the space well and looks like they pair well. Overfilled rooms can make them look cramped and chaotic, and too much decor or mess can create visual clutter, which is not inviting.

Mismatched Styles

Photo by Element5 Digital

Instead: Create A Point Of View

As a home decor enthusiast, I love almost all of it: art deco, modern, vintage, all the trends. Not to say, these trends can't all go together – they totally can! But create a space where they all work together so it feels cohesive. Make sure furniture works well with each other (even ask design advice from retailers). If you add art deco elements to a modern space, keep that thread going throughout the home with similar shapes, materials and textures (without going overboard). Start with an idea, pair down to the necessities, and slowly add what feels right.

Old Paint, Broken Anything

Photo by Pixabay

Instead: Keep Up With Repairs

Walls with chipped or peeling paint can make a home look neglected so a fresh coat is always a good idea after three or so years. Fix broken fixtures too like light switches, faucets, or doorknobs to keep your home from looking old and unkempt.

Cheap Materials

Photo: Shutterstock

Instead: Opt For Natural Materials

Synthetic materials like polyester and nylon can appear low-end so use them sparingly. Of course, there are sometimes budget concerns but opting for a few quality linens, upholstery, or real wood furniture can elevate your home.

Dated Fixtures

Photography by Joao Canziani | Design: Arterberry Cooke,

Instead: Upgrade faucets, knobs, and handles

My mom was ready to remodel her whole bathroom until I told her that it was fine — she just needed to upgrade her faucet. She did and was so happy with the results. Something as small as a new bathroom faucet, kitchen handles, or new doorknobs can bring your home on trend and help eliminate embarrassing home decor mistakes.

Rental Blinds

Shutterstock

Instead: Don't Treat Windows As An Afterthought

While I do love the bare window look, it can sometimes make a room feel unfinished, especially if the windows are not new. As a renter, I couldn't stand the look of cheap rental blinds too. I'd remove them, make my own shades, and reinstall them when I moved out. Using flimsy or outdated blinds can ruin a perfectly beautiful room. It's like the final accessory to complete the look!

Lack of Scale And Proportion

Photo: Nils Timm

Instead: Create Balance

Area rugs should extend beyond the sofa and not be too small compared to the size of the room. Find furniture that fits the space and hang artwork that balances the room vs. puts it off kilter. This room by L.A. design firm House of Rolison feels harmonious and complete.

Generic Decor

Photo: Nils Timm | Design: House of Rolison

Instead: Add Personal Touches

Using generic, mass-produced decor items can make a home feel impersonal and bland. Create a sense of space and character by incorporating personal touches, such as family photos or unique decor and art pieces.

Overly Themed Rooms

Photo by Tatiana Syrikova

Instead: Scale Back On Thematic Pieces

Overdoing a specific theme, such as nautical or rustic, can feel kitschy and less sophisticated. Instead, use elements of a theme sparingly, like this woodland-themed kids room that features an animal print and little trinkets on a shelf for an adorable touch.

Main Photo by Rachel Claire

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Here's Your Official (Steamy) First Look At Benedict & Sophie In 'Bridgerton' Season 4!

As much as we'd love to hear that BridgertonSeason 4 is releasing earlier than next year, we'll have to settle for as many teasers and first looks as we can get for now! Fans already know Yerin Ha will be stepping into Sophie Baek's shoes alongside Luke Thompson as Benedict, but Netflix finally released something that'll keep us satiated for a while. We can't promise much else — except these two are clearly going to make our hearts race when they're finally on-screen.

Here's the official Bridgerton Season 4 first look with Sophie & Benedict!

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Benedict's always been one of the lighthearted Bridgerton siblings, but Season 3 showed up just how, uh, free he can be. While he and Eloise did discuss their mutual feelings of wanting to explore life, it seems our loving bachelor is set on finding love in unexpected places.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Benedict may not have fallen in love with Tilley, but it appears he's head over heels for Sophie and we think it's adorable. But, there's one glaring problem: Sophie's a maid who has plenty of secrets.

Never before have any of the Bridgerton children gotten romantically involved with someone who's in another social class, so this already sounds scandalous.

Liam Daniel/Netflix

Ah, but what will the watchful Queen Charlotte think? Remember, she was certain she was going to expose and punish Lady Whistledown before Penelope's moving speech got her to change her mind. We can only guess how she'll feel about the Bridgertons once she learns of Benedict and Sophie's forbidden romance.

In the meantime, we're already dreaming up as much as we can about this exciting season with these pictures! Oh, and did we mention there's a video too?!

Watch The 'Bridgerton' Season 4 Sneak Peak Here!

www.youtube.com

- YouTube

Seriously...season 4 can't come fast enough!!!

We can't wait to see how Benedict and Sophie's love shakes up the Ton in Season 4. We're sure Queen Charlotte and Lady Danbury will have much to discuss!

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15 Best Dystopian Books To Read Instead of "Doomscrolling" Right Now

Lately, we don't have to look far for doomsday news or potential policies that make us feel like a dystopian future will soon be our reality. Although we like to joke about it, we've seen pop culture seemingly predict our current societal and political landscape via everything from episodes of the The Simpsons to the books we've read over the years, wondering how these fictitious communities could experience horrible environments at the hands of others' decisions.

Since art is often bred from very real feelings about history's patterns, we think it's time to open a few relatable books. In our eyes, unprecedented times call for reading thought-provoking work that may seem bleak, but offers hope set in motion by one person's courage in the face of oppression and fear. These are the best dystopian books you should read in 2025.

Here are 15 dystopian books to read if you're tired of doom scrolling on social media.

Amazon

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Guy Montag's job as a fireman isn't like what you or I are used to. Instead of saving the lives of those affected by fires, he and his co-workers set them because it's a crime to have books in one's home. He does his job well and comes home to the passionless marriage he has with his wife Mildred, running on a mindless loop. It isn't until he meets a teenager named Clarisse that he begins seeing the world through her eyes and it makes him uncomfortable.

Underneath that discomfort is the knowledge that he's been keeping a secret all along and will have to decide which side of history he wants to be on.

Amazon

The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Even if you've never read the book or watched the hit TV series, chances are you've heard about The Handmaid's Tale. It's ruffled feathers to the point it's made it to the banned books list, but author Margaret Atwood's message is loud and clear: women's reproductive rights could become weaponized.
She begins her tale in the aftermath of a second Civil War that's dismantled "normal" America. As such, the Republic of Gilead has been set in place that's meant to remind men and women how things used to be. With men holding positions of power and fertile women being enslaved to help regrow the population comes a sordid tale of oppression and abuse.
However, one maid's memories and desire to break free from her horrible role encourages her to stage one of the biggest coups.

Amazon

The Power by Naomi Alderman

The Power places decisions in the hands of young girls who aren't typically afforded it. Readers will meet several characters like a wealthy Nigerian boy and a tough-as-nails girl, but what's shocking is what happens when something ignites teenaged girls with something powerful. If they choose, these girls can cause great harm to others or even end their lives.
It's a far cry from the idea that young girls are weak and powerless in a world that seeks to tame them.

Amazon

Chain-Gain All-Stars by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah

Loretta Thurwar and Hamara "Hurricane Staxxx" are a part of Criminal Actional Penal Entertainment, aka CAPE, as prisoners. They've worked their way up the hierarchy of the Chain-Gain All-Stars and are the reigning champs as they fight until the death to earn freedom.

However, there's a catch: one of them will be heavily discouraged from leaving with every hardship they face. It seems greed has no bounds and will make sure to keep viewers invested.

Amazon

American War by Omar El Akkad

Sarat Chestnut was a little girl when the another Civil War occurred in the year 2074, but she was aware enough to understand the criminalization of oil. Also, she's watched half of Louisiana succumb to being under sea level. Once her father loses his life and her family's driven to Camp Patience, she surrenders to a new normal. However, there's a false underbelly of the Camp and it works its magic on Sarat.
Before long, she's become a weapon for a war that'll change the lives of everyone.

Amazon

Tender Is the Flesh by Agustina Bazterrica

What happens when to a world without animal meat? In Tender Is the Flesh, readers will face the horror of this staunch reality.
For main character Marcos, life has dealt him a set of terrible cards. He's separated from his wife and watching his father's health deplete quicker than he can blink his eyes. There's also the sickening fact that he's a part of the "Transition" that helps process specialized human meat.
Then one day it happens: he meets a woman who's supposed to be packaged for consumption and it shatters his usual resolve. The more he interacts with her, the more he wants to find a way to turn away from this horrific government project.

Amazon

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

15-year-old Tally has been waiting to turn 16 for a long time because she's finally going to become gorgeous. Thanks to life-altering surgery, she gets to stop being looked over and will join a society where she doesn't have to work hard. But her friend Shay isn't so sure about this idyllic world and decides to escape it.
However, those in charge aren't a fan of this runaway situation and put Tally in a complicated position that'll alter her future.

Amazon

The Last Murder at the End of the Worldby Stuart Turton

The former world? Utterly destroyed.The island? A perfect paradise that's home to 125 people who have learned to peacefully coexist. They don't question their right to live off the land nor the curfew that's been set in place. The crack in their perfect situation doesn't come until they find out a popular scientist's been murdered.
This death triggers a breakdown in the security that was keeping them safe from the atmosphere that killed others once before and they don't have long to fix it. However, their memories have been erased and they're not sure who caused these scary chain of events.

Amazon

The Ferryman by Justin Cronin

The Ferryman describes what happens when another "perfect" paradise seems like it's everything but that.
On Prospera, only the privileged are allowed to enjoy glorious living. Though they enjoy the finer things in life, the staff who makes sure they're comfortable aren't granted the same opportunities. Truthfully, they're waiting for the right time to rebel against their conditions because they know the spoiled citizens of Prospera will be granted multiple chances at life.
For Proctor Bennett, his job as a ferryman is to make sure people are able to "retire" when it's time. It's a job he does without fail until a lone message makes him question the validity of the islands.

Amazon

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Beatrice Prior lives in a society that's divided into the Candon (honest), Abnegation (selfless), Dauntless (brave), Amity (peaceful), and Erudite (intelligent) factions. This helps keep society running according to the government's plans, but Beatrice is torn between remaining with the Abnegation or joining a new faction.
When she makes her choice, it sends ripples among those who know her and then there's Tris. He's harboring something that's sure to make him a target so she'll try to protect his secret while keeping her own interests at heart.

Amazon

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

North America's now known as Panem, and it's comprised of twelve districts that once rebelled again the Capitol. However, their defeat was costly and caused them to allow two kids per district to participate in "The Hunger Games." It's a known fact that they may die as a result, but nothing's happened to change this unimaginable law.

When Katniss Everdeen volunteers as tribute so her young sister doesn't have to compete, this sets forth a chain of events that prove her an unlikely winner and hero.

Amazon

Ripe by Sarah Rose Etter

Cassie's secured a job in her ideal role in Silicon Valley, but it turns into something nightmarish. She doesn't have a work-life balance and is tasked with doing borderline illegal things. She also can see the stark difference in economic classes because her job has a front row view of many displaced members of society.
Accompanying Cassie is something dark that responds to the state of her mental health. As she grapples with pregnancy and the things her job demands of her, she'll have to ask herself if the cost of success is worth it.

Amazon

The Garden by Nick Newman (February 18, 2025)

Evelyn and Lily are two sisters who've been living in a beautiful garden that no one can see behind. They don't remember what life was like prior to being near it as they've become preoccupied with making sure it flourishes. All of this changes with an unknown boy shows up in their curated world. They're not sure who he is, but his presence makes them question how they've chosen to live their lives.

Amazon

Fable for the End of the World (March 4, 2025)

Caerus is fueling the nation's debt problem among those who aren't wealthy, and it affects Inesa as well as her family. She and her brother are in charge of a taxidermy shop, but their mother's selfishness puts their lives in danger when her debt reaches an astronomical level. The only solution for this is for Inesa or her brother to be entered into the Lamb's Gauntlet where they'll be killed. The merciless killer? Melinoë.
She has no remorse as she's been trained to be heartless towards her victims. But Inesa proves to be the first "Lamb" that makes her question what she's doing. Together, they'll go on a journey that changes how they see their lives and love.

Amazon

Outlawed by Anna North

Ada and her husband were happy, but she failed to conceive a child in a town that views infertile women as evil. Though she wishes things could be different, she runs away before she can be hanged and joins the Hole in the Wall Gang. It's leader is known as the Kid who wants the world to stop harming women. But the Gang's got a plan that's not safe because creating a viable future is scary.

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