7 Ways to Meditate Without Really Trying

Krista Gray
Jan 24, 2018

Though it might feel like it takes a Herculean effort to be healthier, trying simple diet swaps, working just 10 percent harder to achieve a fitness goal, and powering down your phone before bed to get better sleep are all tiny tweaks you can make to your regular routine that can have a big impact. Another easy add is a few moments of meditation each day, which should leave you feeling calmer and more focused.

Meditation is meant to recharge the mind and body, and it can be a different experience each time. Light Walkins, the author of the forthcoming Bliss More: How to Succeed in Meditation Without Really Trying, says, “I personally experience meditation as a daily practice of sitting quietly with my eyes closed for about 15 to 20 minutes. Our body is very much a machine, and like all machines, it needs periodic rest to perform at its best.” Meditation doesn’t call for much at all — in fact, Walkins tells us that you should be able to meditate in a car, on the subway, or on an airplane by simply closing your eyes and breathing.

why should you meditate?

Meditation can be the key to better sleep. “I thought I slept well before, but meditation has improved my sleep quality tenfold,” Walkins says. “I can sleep for a shorter time but wake up feeling completely refreshed. Nowadays, instead of relying on an alarm, I just make a mental appointment to wake up at a certain time in the morning and I’ll naturally wake up at that time, with no grogginess or grumpiness.”

Other benefits include greater mental clarity, which can manifest as faster and more confident decision making. “Rarely do I spend a lot of time deliberating on things, or having to ask friends for advice. There’s nothing wrong with that, but we want to have the ability to verify and validate our choices with our own internal guidance system.”

7 Secrets for Meditating (Without Really Trying)

1. Find a distraction-free space. “Your mind won’t be able to settle if your body thinks you’re not safe,” Walkins explains. “This is why meditating outside is actually not as ideal as meditating indoors; it’s best to be in a contained environment such as a car or living room in order to go ‘deep’ in meditation.”

2. Use headphones. According to Walkins, it’s fine to meditate in public — and using headphones gets the green light. “Earphones help let people know not to disturb you. Wearing them is a tactic that you can use anytime, anywhere.”

3. Make sure you’re comfortable and supported. “When we’re physically uncomfortable, we risk keeping our mind more active,” Walkins says. “If you can, sit with back support in a comfortable position. It’ll make it easier for your mind to settle down.”

4. Focus on breathing. Like with most mental exercises, breathing is key. During meditation, Walkins advises, “Take 10 deep inhales and exhales, relaxing each part of your body in the process to relieve tension. Deep breathing is a very effective way to release that surface tension and bring you into the moment, where you’ll be able to relax into an even deeper state.”

5. Know your happy word, sound, or phrase. Walkins tells us to use a word, sound, or phrase that makes you feel happy as soon as you close your eyes. However, “This is not necessarily meant to be a point of focus,” he clarifies. “It’s a happy thought that you can rest your awareness on during parts of your meditation. Your mind enjoys happy thoughts — and you might find that the happy thought will naturally neutralize the other thoughts that we may consider distracting.”

6. Let your mind roam free. Meditation doesn’t need to be a structured exercise. In fact, Walkins tells us that it’s important to give yourself permission to let your mind explore all kinds of thoughts during your focus session. “The truth is that your mind will roam whether you allow it to or not; it’s the natural tendency,” he explains. “When your mind does meander, you passively return to your happy thought.” He also points to this approach as explored by Harvard researcher Dr. Herbert Benson, who showed it to be most effective in eliciting the relaxation response in meditation. “This is the deepest we can relax without going into a coma,” Walkins affirms.

7. Open your eyes. “After 10 or 15 minutes, slowly open your eyes,” Walkins says. “If you want to sit for five minutes longer because it feels so good, go for it! For the optimal therapeutic effect, meditate in the way described for 20 minutes.” At the very least, Walkins suggests meditating for 10 minutes. “With less time, the effects will wear off too quickly for you to feel like you get a tangible benefit,” he notes.

Do you meditate? Tell us how your practice helps you live a healthy life on Twitter @BritandCo.

(Photo via Getty)

12 "Wacky" Daylight Saving Facts (& How to Make the Transition Easier)

Only two states in the United States don't observe daylight saving time, observing standard time year-round: Arizona and Hawaii. After all, they argue, these states already get plenty of sun. The other 48 states – AKA the rest of us – will spring forward our clocks by one hour on Sunday, March 9, at least for now. It's been reported that it's on the table for abolishing. While it's my favorite time of year (who doesn't love the longer days?), it comes with some not so good health news. Let's get into what you can expect this daylight saving time!

Here are 12 wacky facts you may not know about daylight saving time.

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1. Most of us are saying it wrong.

The correct term is actually "daylight saving time" — singular, not plural. Despite common usage, "saving" is used as an adjective describing the act of conserving daylight, not a plural noun.

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2. The time change has been linked to more hospital visits.

The American Heart Association found that the time change showed an increase in cases of heart attack and stroke. A scientific study found a rise in cases of Atrial Fibrillation (AFib), a condition that resulted in irregular heartbeats with symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and fatigue. The increase was more prevalent among women and occurred only during the spring daylight saving time shift, not with the fall clock change.

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3. There are more car accidents during this time.

Losing an hour of sleep can also impact your road safety. A study found that the spring daylight saving time transition increases the risk of fatal traffic accidents in the U.S. by 6 percent.

Andrea Piacquadio

4. DST can increase your cortisol and stress levels.

Losing sleep and disrupting your body’s natural rhythm can do more than just leave you feeling groggy — it can actually spike your cortisol levels, the hormone linked to stress. Research shows that sleep deprivation and circadian misalignment can trigger an increase in cortisol, along with inflammatory markers and cytokine imbalances. Since cortisol and inflammatory proteins are released in response to stress, chronic elevations could contribute to long-term health issues.

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5. We're at higher risk of depression.

Many people report mood disturbances during this time, but for those with bipolar disorder, the effects can be particularly destabilizing. For instance, a 2020 study found that the change impacts mood disorders, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. An Australian study revealed a significant increase in male suicide rates in the weeks following the start of daylight saving time, compared to both the weeks after the return to standard time and the rest of the year.

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6. Benjamin Franklin first suggested the concept.

He didn’t technically invent daylight saving time (as some have reported), but he did conceive the idea a century before it was credited to George Vernon Hudson, a New Zealand artist who formally proposed it in an 1895 paper. Benjamin Franklin observed that if people in France adjusted their schedules to sleep when it was dark and wake with the sunrise, they could save hundreds of francs on candles — making artificial lighting less necessary.

Andy Feliciotti

7. There's already buzz to make DST permanent.

The Sunshine Protection Act is a proposed U.S. law aiming to make daylight saving time permanent, eliminating the need to change clocks twice a year.

Anna Shvets

8. Farmers actually fought against it.

Contrary to popular belief, farmers have never supported daylight saving time. In fact, they opposed its implementation and, in 1919, an agricultural lobby even pushed for its repeal.

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9. We may actually consume more energy because of it.

While many believe daylight saving time conserves energy, research suggests it may actually do the opposite. A University of California-Santa Barbara study indicated that daylight saving time might increase consumption. A 2017 study in the International Association for Energy Economics Journal further supports this idea, noting that longer daylight hours can lead to more air conditioning in summer and heating in cooler months.

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10. Daylight saving time was extended in 2007.

First started in Germany, the U.S. adopted daylight saving time in 1918 and standardized it across the country with the passage of the 1966 Uniform Time Act, which gave the federal government oversight over the time change. It originally called for the last Sunday in April to the last Sunday in October. President George W. Bush’s Energy Policy Act of 2005 extended it from the second Sunday in March to the first Sunday in November, starting in 2007.

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11. About 70 countries observe daylight saving time.

Countries like Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, and those in the European Union observe daylight saving time either nationwide or in select regions. Meanwhile, most African and Asian nations — including India, China, and Japan — opt out of the time change entirely.

Kaylah Matthews

12. You can beat the clock.

Despite the health risks and safety concerns of daylight saving time, you can take steps to combat fatigue and adjust within a week. Here are B+C's 5 Best Ways to Beat Daylight Saving Time Fatigue.

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This "Outdated" '90s Pasadena Home Got A Stunning Renovation — See The Before & After!

Letting more than a decade pass without updates can quickly leave a home feeling outdated. That was the case for this Pasadena home, which remained frozen in the '80s and ’90s — until Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of the celebrity-loved design firm House of Rolison stepped in to beautifully renovate and reimagine it. Their goal? To lean into the home's French-country architecture and transform the dated and dysfunctional space into a modern, light-filled space with moody vibes, vintage pieces, and luxury materials.

See the before and after of this French-inspired Pasadena renovation!

THE BEFORE

Courtesy of House of Rolison

Prior to the renovation, the home was stuck in the past with a lime green exterior and a late 80s/early 90s design aesthetic, including dated flooring, cramped rooms, wall-to-wall carpeting, bulky kitchen cabinets and granite (granite!) countertops. Drumroll on the after....

THE AFTER

Gavin Cater

I'm in awe of this transformation. Amanda and Taylor enhanced the home’s original features, including the floor-to-ceiling windows, slate roof with beautifully patinated gutters and accents, and kept original lighting fixtures while adding a fresh coat of paint and modern landscaping. Gorgeous!

THE BEFORE: ENTRY AND LIVING ROOM

Courtesy of House of Rolison

Before diving into the renovation, take a look at the original living area and entryway. The space feels not just overdone, but also cold and uninviting. The bulky staircases (plural) dominate the entry, while the divider adds nothing to the warmth or flow of the space. The furniture feels stuck in another era, and that tiny rug? A total eyesore!

THE AFTER: LIVING AREA

Gavin Cater

The entry now is stunning, designed to make a statement with one staircase removed to create a charming seating nook and a more open, inviting flow into the cozy living space. The home now has 20-foot ceilings, an elegant formal living room topped with custom-stained cedar paneling, and a bespoke bar area showcasing beautifully restored red oak cabinetry.

Gavin Cater

Elegant furnishings with modern silhouettes and warm, earthy tones instantly elevate the home's aesthetic. The restored fireplace adds warmth and character to the room, while a well-proportioned rug enhances the cozy, inviting space.

THE BEFORE: KITCHEN

Courtesy of House of Rolison

My eyes! This kitchen is a time capsule of outdated design, from the heavy granite countertops to the awkward circular layout that feels cramped and closed off.

Gavin Cater

"We opened up the kitchen to create a much more spacious and functional layout," says Taylor. "One of the key changes was expanding the kitchen’s visual space by installing double islands to create more prep space and an inviting area for family to gather."

Gavin Cater

They also removed a wall that separated the kitchen from the dining area, which not only opened up the space but also allowed natural light to flood in from both sides of the house. "The wood and paint-grade cabinetry allowed for contrast, and served as the perfect canvas for Calacatta Viola marble and absolute black slabs. The matte black hardware we used throughout the cabinetry and railings added a modern touch," adds Amanda.

Gavin Cater

Amanda and Taylor revamped the '90s kitchen into a chic and design-forward space by adding a moody breakfast nook for the family to gather. Find more banquette inspiration here!

Gavin Cater

Another challenge was optimizing the natural light — some rooms had very little natural light while others had plenty, so they introduced skylights where it was lacking. "We maximized the layout, lighting, and use of space while adding crucial design factors to make the property stand out," says Taylor.

Gavin Cater

Striking a balance between light and dark, the dining room features a rich brown and black palette that enhances its moody, earthy aesthetic while beautifully framing the outdoor views.

Gavin Cater

"The defining highlight for us is how we were able to preserve the home’s original charm while modernizing it to meet the physical and aesthetic needs of a modern family," says Amanda. The design duo kept the architectural integrity intact, but enhanced the functionality and warmth.

Gavin Cater

Taylor and Amanda restored the fireplace to its original brick, "but not how you might think," says Taylor. "We went through multiple processes to come to the final product. First attempting to remove paint, then micro cementing the fireplace, and at the very end we wanted to have the warmth and beauty of used brick. So we had to source used brick to satisfy the color and size needs for our room and proceeded to install."

Gavin Cater

Marble and matte black hardware was also used in the bathrooms, creating a cohesive and luxurious feel throughout the home.

Gavin Cater

"We chose natural materials like warm oak wood, used brick, and natural stones to blend with the moldings and historic feel of the home," says Amanda. The soft goods complement these harder materials with natural linens and vintage style rugs.

Gavin Cater

Touches of nature are woven throughout the home, subtly appearing in the artwork and décor.

Gavin Cater

The adorable kids room is a clean canvas with neutral decor and a rich amber-colored rug.

Gavin Cater

The outdoors is just as stunning. The pair upgraded the pool tile to a cle rust brown tile to modernize and warm up the pool. "We take landscaping our homes very seriously, so when it came to this home we had to go all out," says Amanda. Grass, olive trees, ficus, vines and more create a serene environment for years to come.

Gavin Cater

"The idea was to create a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape — bringing the outside in," adds Taylor. "The seamless integration of indoor-outdoor living and the design of the kitchen as the heart of the home really stand out."

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8 "Outdated" Hairstyles That Aren’t Doing You Any Favors In 2025

Hair trends come and go, but some of them should remain frozen in time forever. It's not that we think you'll be making a major faux pas, but we want to see you look your best! There are so many cute hairstyles that will suit your face much better than a mullet would, but that's not the only trend you should bury in the sands of time! Here are the outdated hairstyles what you should avoid at home, at the salon, and really anywhere right now.

Scroll to see the 8 outdated hairstyles it's officially time to retire for good!

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1. Deep Side Parts

Coming in at #1 on our "outdated" list are deep side parts. They used to something we admired on everyone from Amy Winehouse to Katy Perry, but now they remind us of the questionable choices we made in our early 20s.

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2. Space Buns

Princess Leia may look great wearing her space buns in the Star Wars franchise, but we think you shouldn't bring them into 2025. The last time someone on our team wore them was between 2018 or 2019, so that should say a lot.

We don't say this often, but let's wear hairstyles that don't revert us back to our grade school days.

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3. Side Braid

Unless you're trying to relive your childhood days or want to mimic Blake Lively's character in It Ends With Us, this outdated hairstyle shouldn't be on your list of favorite looks to wear. There's other braided styles you can wear that are way more stylish anyway!

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4. Super Visible Highlights

Whether you're getting microlinks or a sew-in, wearing super visible highlights in 2025 is truly outdated. It's one thing to switch up your style, but it's another to let the world know how much you love a good contrast by letting your hair scream it from the mountaintops.

Keep your color of choice seamless this year if you decide to get a color service.

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5. '60s Up-Do

There's a time and place for everything, including updos that resemble what was popular during the '60s. If you must wear this style, go for a more modern take that doesn't feel as stiff. You might want to update your bangs too.

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6. Wand Curls

When's the last time you heard someone mention this once popular style? Chances are you haven't because it's a reminder of how long it took to achieve overly done curls. Depending on the size you wanted, you could spend anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour on this style. Oh, and it was mandatory to wear the accompanying glove that came with the 'wand' or else you risked burning your fingers!

No thank you!

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7. Barbie Bleach

Remember when it was a cardinal sin to show up to the beach without "effortlessly wavy" hair? It seems more people are moving away from that and embracing 'messy' buns and the beauty of textured hair. It's one thing if you hair naturally looks like this, but it's another if you try to make your hair conform to this style just because it's "on trend."

Newsflash: you don't have to force your hair to do something it doesn't want to! (And not everyone has to look like Serena van der Woodsen!)

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8. Millennial Pouf

Oof, how can we forget the millennial pouf? This was one of our go-to hairstyles that we swore we'd always wear. Little did we know how much we'd avoid it once we graduated from college.

It's not the most annoying style, but we're throwing this one in the "outdated" bag so we can't even pretend we're going to start wearing it again.

Want to know what else is "outdated?" Revisit the nail trends you shouldn't be wearing in 2025!

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The 10 Best Finds From The Whole Foods Hot Bar For An On-The-Go Meal

The Whole Foods hot bar is a buffet of delicious possibilities. It’s truly packed with fresh, flavorful dishes that make grabbing a quick meal feel like a total treat! From perfectly-seasoned roasted veggies to indulgent comfort foods like meatloaf and cornbread, you’re never missing out on good eats when you stop by the Whole Foods hot bar. If you’re wondering which options are worth piling onto your plate, these 10 picks are the best of the best!

Scroll on to discover the 10 best finds at the Whole Foods hot bar for a tasty on-the-go meal!

Kaboompics / PEXELS

1. Rotisserie Chicken

Whole Foods’ rotisserie chicken is a staple you simply need to try. It’s juicy, flavorful, and perfectly-seasoned every single time! Some Whole Foods locations even give you a choice between lemon herb or garlic variations that add delicious depth of flavor. Plus, rotisserie chicken is always versatile – you can eat it on its own, shred it into salads, or pair it with any of the hot bar sides for a balanced, high-protein meal.

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2. Tomato Basil Soup

Tomato Basil Soup is superior when it comes to comfort food, and Whole Foods’ recipe is no exception! It never fails to be rich, velvety, and packed with the perfect balance of sweetness from the tomatoes and freshness from the basil. It’s a fan-favorite because it pairs beautifully with everything from grilled cheese to pasta.

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3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

These aren’t the bland, mushy veggies you avoided as a kid. Whole Foods roasts their Brussels sprouts to crispy perfection, oftentimes serving them up with garlic, a balsamic glaze, or some Parmesan cheese! If you’re looking for nutritious, yet flavorful options from the Whole Foods hot bar, you’ve just gotta scoop up some of these sprouts and witness the magic for yourself.

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4. Grilled Salmon

Whole Foods’ grilled salmon is a standout item on the hot bar because of its buttery texture and slightly-smoky char. It pairs exceptionally well with the aforementioned Brussels sprouts or even a grain-based side like quinoa!

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5. Mac & Cheese

Whole Foods fans go nuts for their Mac & Cheese. It’s nothing but rich, creamy, and of course, loaded with cheese. It’s ooey and gooey, but typically, the top layer boasts a slight crispiness from baking. Yum. It makes the ultimate comfort food for picky kids and hungry adults alike!

Whole Foods

6. Classic Meatloaf

Don't knock meatloaf – especially Whole Foods’ meatloaf from the hot bar. This home-style dish is made with high-quality beef, flavorful seasonings, and a tangy tomato glaze that keeps you going back for more. And more! Shoppers love it so much because it brings back that nostalgia for a hearty, homemade dinner.

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7. Chicken Tikka Masala

This ready-to-eat Tikka Masala is so delicious. The chicken is always tender and absorbs the spicy sauce beautifully, making it a perfect dish when served over basmati rice. It’s a great way to enjoy Indian flavors without having to visit a restaurant (and pay restaurant prices).

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8. Fried Rice

Whole Foods’ fried rice can’t be beat. Often made with fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a touch of soy sauce for umami depth, it's a great side to scoop up for lunch or dinner.

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9. Baked Ziti

This comforting mix of al dente pasta, rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and ricotta for extra creaminess is one of the best items on Whole Foods’ hot bar. Cheese lovers, make way!

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10. Nashville Hot Chicken

For those who can’t resist a little heat, the Nashville hot chicken at Whole Foods delivers a perfect balance of spice and crunch. Each bite is also slightly-sweet, so you’re going to get a balanced meal every time you stop by.

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The Libby Awards Just Announced Their Winners — & Tons Of Our Fave Books Made The Cut

2024 saw the rise of celebrity book clubs and BookTok favorites, but we were waiting for the Libby Awards to announce their top picks this year. Finally, our wait is over because they announced their winners! According to PEOPLE, a record-breaking number of librarians sifted through 2024's most-anticipated books and we're delighted to see some of our favorite reads made the cut.

Whether you see reading as a hobby, a way to escape or a form of resistance, having organizations and librarians who encourage it is truly golden.

Scroll to see which of our favorite books made the Libby Awards list and the top runner-ups from adult fiction to romantasy!

Best Adult Fiction Book

Amazon

The Women by Kristin Hannah

Kristin Hannah's The Women deserves the acknowledgement it continues to get because it such a well-written novel. It introduces readers to Frances "Frankie" McGrath, a nursing student, who believes she and other women have something special to contribute to the Vietnam War. Enlisting in the Army Nurse Corps allows her to follow her brother and show how much she's serious about her desire to do more. But, she doesn't expect to be surrounded by so much mayhem upon her arrival and return back to the home she left behind.

Amazon

James by Percival Everett (Runner-Up)

Huckleberry Finn's story has always been readily available, but the runaway slave who accompanied him during his journey was overshadowed. Seeking to change that, Percival Everett wrote James as a way to give Jim a purpose-filled voice.
Prior to forming a friendship with the "wild child," Jim's worst fears come true when he learns his master wants to take him away from his family. Unwilling to let that happen, he escapes to Jackson Island where he crosses paths with Huck Finn. Both are aware they're running from volatile situations which leads them to make a perilous journey to find a taste of freedom.

Best Adult Nonfiction Book 

Amazon

The Demon of Unrest by Erik Larson

Erik Larson's The Demon of Unrest takes readers back in time to understand how fraught Abraham Lincoln's election and the Southern Confederates' relationship was. It was clear far right thinking was seeking to dismantle any idea of democracy for all and it seemed that nothing would change until the fateful events that took place at Fort Sumter.
From Major Robert Anderson to William Seward, readers will relive a time period where many lives were lost as the quest for power created bloodshed.

Amazon

By the Fire We Carry by Rebecca Nagle (Runner-Up)

By the Fire We Carry also revisits a time in history where injustice prevailed, but this time the focus is on American Indians. Beginning in the 1830s, the Muscogee people were forcibly removed from their land to unknown territories. Though they believed they would receive retribution, it became evident it wouldn't happen when Oklahoma took over their home. And when treacherous murder happens, the new state refused to step in for years.
It wasn't until 2020 that the Supreme Court reached an overdue decision that didn't seek the best interests of the American Indians, proving injustice is embedded in American history.

Best Young Adult Fiction Book 

Amazon

Heir by Sabaa Tahir

AIZ knows life isn't fair as she's grown up poor in Kegari, but it hasn't stopped her for wanting revenge for something she's never forgotten. Her rage puts her in an even more dangerous situation and it threatens to overtake her. Then there's SIRSHA, a tracker with magic in her veins. She hasn't had a stroke of luck in a while which makes her accept a job of punishing a child murderer. Lastly, there's the reluctant prince QUIL. He's seen the effects being in control has on others and doesn't want to meet that same fate, but is forced to make a decision when the Empire is threatened. Each will have to make decisions that play a role in their final fates and it's impossible to know who will survive.

Amazon

Twenty-Four Seconds from Now... by Jason Reynolds (Runner-Up)

Aria met Neon two years ago because her dog decided to have its version of fun by chasing the latter. It was a fateful meeting that put them on a path of love and everyone knows it. Talks about intimacy have led to more conversations about having sex for the first time, but readers will see how complicated it is for the teens.

However, Aria and Neon make a plan to do the one deed they can't stop thinking about. But guess where Neon is?

Hiding in a bathroom because his nerves are all over the place!

Best Debut Author 

Amazon

The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley

When a civil servant receives a job she's been dreaming about, she's overjoyed and gladly accepts its conditions. She and others will help "expats" adjust to living in the present after their time travel journeys. That's how she meets Commander Graham Gore ("1847"). The last thing he knew was that he lived during the 1840s so he experiences shock that things are so different from what he remembers.
Nevertheless, he and the civil servant begin to respect each other in a way that leads to the one forbidden rule for their situation: they're never meant to fall in love.

Amazon

I Hope This Finds You Well by Natalie Sue (Runner-Up)

Jolene finds herself in hot water with HR when her snarky emails about co-workers are discovered. In order to keep her job, she has to complete training with Cliff and even has to follow email protocols to make sure she doesn't repeat her mistakes. But then she becomes aware of other employees' emails and realizes she's not the only one who's been writing things that can be seen as red flags. It's how she finds out a company-wide layoff will be happening soon.

Torn between wanting to protect herself and see the humanity of those she works with, Jolene will have to decide how vulnerable she wants to be in both situations.

Best Book Club Pick

Amazon

Margo's Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe

Margo Millet was born into a precarious situation given the fact her dad used to wrestle professionally while her mom waited tabled at Hooters. Despite her lack of examples, the young adult starts taking classes at a junior college while wondering how she's going to make ends meet. Somehow, she has an affair with a married professor that leads to a very unplanned pregnancy that everyone thinks she should terminate. But something awakens in Margo and she ignores everyone's "advice."
In order to take care of herself and her young child, she starts an OnlyFans account that garners more attention than she thought it would. Suddenly able to afford her bills, Margo leans into her new "job," until someone close to her does the unthinkable.

Amazon

Real Americans by Rachel Khong (Runner-Up)

Rachel Khong's Real Americans decodes what happens when a young woman named Lily Chen meets a wealthy man named Matthew. Though it's clear they were in love, readers eventually discover the two are no longer together when they see her raising her teenaged son alone. Refusing to explain what happened to his father, Lily places her son in a tough spot where he resolves to uncover his heritage without her.
Along the way, the past, present, and future converge in a way that makes readers ponder about classism and more.

Best Fantasy Book

Amazon

The Spellshopby Sarah Beth Durst

Kiela has a people problem, but she bypasses it for the most part as she dutifully takes care of the Great Library of Alyssium with Caz the magical spider plant. However, their perfect paradise comes crashing down when someone destroys where they work, forcing them to evacuate to a place Kiela grew up. Once there, Kiela's visited by her meddling and attractive neighbor who takes a liking to her. Still, she has to do something to bring money in which is how she begins growing berries to create delicious jam.

Her only obstacle is that she's using magic illegally to making a living, leading to a spellshop that will change the island she's on forever.

Amazon

The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo (Runner-Up)

Luzia Cotado spends her days doing back-breaking work as a scullion and would've perished had it not been for the small amount of magic she uses to get by. Things take a wrong turn when her powers are discovered and she's forced to use more to help the family she works for. Hot on her heels is Antonio Pérez, a secretary to Spain's king who needs as much good luck as he can find. By discovering Luzia, he feels he'll be able to rework his way into the good graces of the man he serves.
The only way she'll be able to evade him is by becoming acquainted with others with magical powers and relying on the immortal familiar Guillén Santángel.

Best Horror Book

Amazon

Bury Your Gays by Chuck Tingle

Misha's big moment in Hollywood has finally come in the form of a worthy Oscar nod. The only thing standing in his way are the executives who want him to stop pushing the "gay narrative" on his TV series. Though he admirably rebels against their demands, he soon finds himself and loved ones being haunted.

Amazon

I Was A Teenage Slasher by Stephen Graham Jones (Runner-Up)

A young teen's life takes on a drastic path when he's forced to become a killer. Tolly Driver has always stayed out of trouble, but tragedy pushes him to do something that's out of character while living in Lamesa, Texas. Instead of being written off as another psychotic murderer, Stephen Graham Jones wrote I was A Teenage Slasher from Tolly's POV.

Best Romance Book Of The Year

Amazon

Funny Story by Emily Henry

We all know and love Emily Henry's work, but Funny Story still remains one of the best novels she's written. She allows readers to get to know Daphne's tragically hilariously plight as she realizes her fiancé's been in love with his best friend Petra the entire time they've been together. It blindsides her in more ways than one and leaves her wondering how she's going to afford rent.
As luck would have it, Petra's ex Miles Nowak is in need of a roommate too so he and Daphne decide to share a space. Most days they ignore each other until one conversation leads to a friendship and the perfect idea: pretend to date each other to rub it in their exes faces!
There's no way Daphne or Miles could fall in love with each other for real, right?

Amazon

The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava (Runner-Up)

Ember Lee Cardinal is in a tight spot because she's yet to secure a job despite the many times she's submitted her resumé with applications. Deciding to experiment, she embellishes a few things and stops checking the Native American box. This method works, leading her to secure a role as an accountant.

She does well and even begins dating IT guy Danuwoa Colson despite their job's strict policies. No one suspects a thing until someone sees them during a company trip and threatens to make everyone aware they're together. Now Ember's in a odd situation where he dream job has become a nightmare and she beings telling small lies in order to save her neck because telling the truth has consequences she doesn't want to deal with.

Best Romantasy Book

Amazon

House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas

Bryce Quinlan's been out of Midgard for sometime and is looking for ways to get back to what feels familiar. She never intended to go far away, but it's not so easy to get back to where she was. Plus, she has to watch her back because she doesn't know who's friendly or not.

Hunt Athalar's fate is no better because he's back in Asteri's dungeons and doesn't know where Bryce could be. Though he's helped her in the past, he's unable to intervene this time because he's trapped and doesn't see a way out.

Amazon

Faebound by Saara El-Arifi (Runner-Up)

Yeeran's life has been consumed by battle and she knows that's probably where she'll die. She fiercely serves in the elven army while her sister Lettle spends her days as a diviner. But when Yeeran's kicked out of the Elven Lands, she and sister are forced to face the unknown of the fae court. Having been hidden in plain sight, it begins to pull them in opposite directions from which they may never recover from.

Amazon

Be sure to see the full list of The Libby Awards winners here!

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

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