34 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Jasmine Williams
Apr 03, 2025
april new books 2025april new books 2025

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 Beauty Book Debuting In April

\u200bFresh Sets: Contemporary Nail Art from Around the World by Tembe Denton-Hurst

Amazon

Fresh Sets: Contemporary Nail Art from Around the World by Tembe Denton-Hurst (April 8, 2025)

I love talking about nails with anyone who'll listen, so I can barely contain my joy over New York magazine writer Tembe Denton-Hurst's Fresh Sets: Contemporary Nail Art from Around the World. It's a gorgeous love letter to one of the oldest beauty forms in the world as it dives into how expressive it nail art can.

The attentive and brilliant Denton-Hurst features the work of artists from New York, Berlin and Tokyo who are proud of their creativity and have no problem sharing their creations with readers.

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April 

Amazon

All That Life Can Afford by Emily Everett (April 1, 2025)

Anna's perception of London was molded thanks to days spent reading books about it at the public library. She's always wanted to go there and finally gets her chance once she graduates from college. However, she's taken aback when she sees how "dull" it looks. Just when she's ready to accept that her life will never bear any excitement, Anna secures a job as a tutor for the Wilders daughter. All of a sudden, she finds herself partying and living a life of luxury in Saint-Tropez.

Somewhere along the way, she encounters two appealing men who ignite the fire of different parts of her. But, there's no telling how long Anna will be able to keep up with the new life she's been temporarily afforded.

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

A Proposal to Die For by Molly Harper (April 8, 2025)

Jessamine Bricker is a planner who knows how to make situations flow effortlessly. It's why she's successful at proposal plannings. However, she decides to help a former classmate named Diana and her boyfriend Trenton Tillard, IV to continue affording her office. She'd rather not, but she doesn't want to be pushed out of the space she's in. It's how Jessamine finds herself being a reluctant guest during Diana's pre-wedding trip.

Beginning with day one, one thing after the other goes wrong and it leaves Jessamine wondering why she agreed to help Diana and Trenton. But the scariest thing involves a murder that seeks to destroy everything and everyone...maybe even Jessamine.

Amazon

The Eightsby Joanna Miller (April 15, 2025)

In 1920, four young women are allowed to study at the prestigious and exclusive Oxford University. Their arrival is immediately balked at because women weren't traditionally allowed to attend before, but that doesn't completely deter Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto. For them, being on campus is fueled by individual desires that are revealed over time.
As their time on campus ebbs and flows, these young women will discover a tenacity they never knew they had. Not only that, but they'll also forge an incredible sisterhood that gets them through the toughest times of their lives.

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

That's What She Said by Eleanor Pilcher (April 15, 2025)

Are you really best friends if your personalities don't differ a little bit? For Serena and Beth, it's amazing they've been able to find things in common because their outlooks aren't similar. Whereas Beth seems to be a walking shell of a person, Serena brazenly lives a full life. But some things just make sense and that sums up their friendship.
One day, Beth makes a shocking revelation that delights Serena because she's been waiting for her friend's sexual desires to be awakened. The latter gets to work helping Beth get comfortable with what she wants and it seems like things are headed in the right direction. But an old crush and a FWB situation confuses both women, leading them to wonder if their friendship will survive.

Amazon

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry (April 22, 2025)

Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson are two writers who've been given the opportunity of a lifetime. Nestled away on Little Crescent Island is someone who says they're the great Margaret Ives and she wants to give them a shot at writing her biography. The catch is that only one will win the coveted spot which pits Alice and Hayden against each other.

Both are convinced they have what it takes to win Margaret over, but they soon realize she's sharing different information with them. There's also the realization she's seemingly leaving parts of her story out. But the most tragic part of this little "experiment" is how much electric energy sizzles between them whenever they're around each other.

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.

Amazon

Seeing Redby Bailey Hannah (April 29, 2025)

Cassidy Bowman is so serious about being a "good girl" that she has boundaries in place for herself. From refusing to date anyone in Wells Ranch to avoiding flings with strangers, she's been able to adhere to her rules. But a steamy run-in with her ex Chase "Red" Thompson raises the stakes for both of them.

Despite an agreement that they'll only have one fun romp in the sack, an unexpected pregnancy forces them to contend with their choice. For different reasons, their reputations are on the line which forces them to come to terms with the reality of becoming parents. So, Cassidy and Chase decide to be platonic co-parents...except their magnetism keeps pulling them together.

The Best Horror, 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

Follow Me by Elizabeth Rose Quinn (April 1, 2025)

Adrienne Shaw is positive something foul happened to her twin sister Chiara when the latter vanishes during an influencer trip. Never mind the fact Adrienne never understood her sister's obsession with building a social media presence. It doesn't mean something bad should've happened.

Fed up with everyone's lack of a motive, Adrienne decides to visit the same retreat her sister went to because she's sure she'll find answers to her many questions. For a few days, Adrienne finds herself surrounded by toxic positivity and eyes that tell a different story than smiles do.

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

Another Fine Mess by Lindy Ryan (April 15, 2025)

The Evans women are solely responsible for making sure the dead are truly resting in Texas, but things don't always go as planned. For example, Lenore and her granddaughter Luna have to contend with two women in their family who aren't quite ready to go yet — Grace and Ducey. Rattled by this situation, Lenore and Luna team up with the new sheriff to stop victims' lives from being claimed. But they'll unearth even more secrets that are deadlier than the undead's decision to walk about.

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

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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 & Inspirational 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.

Amazon

Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Livesby Jessica Zucker, PhD (April 22, 2025)

After writing the groundbreaking I Had a Miscarriage,Jessica Zucker decided to take things a step further to expound on the many ways girls and women are taught to carry shame. Whether it's navigating body image, sexual harm, or menopause, certain topics are still considered taboo. But in Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives, Zucker's saying the quiet parts out loud.

Without missing a beat, she explains the many ways shame can show up in young girls and women's lives while also sharing helpful insight about how to explore a liberated life. It's empowering no matter what season of life you're in and one that I absolutely recommend!

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

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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!

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

This post has been updated.

Oprah Winfrey's "Evocative" April Book Club Pick Is For Memoir Lovers

Oprah Winfrey's book club is known for having exquisite reading picks, and the book she's chosen so far in 2025 are no different. We've all been grappling with loss and despair in some format, and the media mogul's aware of that. While it's not a total fix, Oprah's choice to include a self-improvementand fiction on her list can help us get more in tune with ourselves during times like this.

P.S. Oprah's book club doesn't follow a monthly timeline, making her picks feel even more intentional!

Scroll to see all of Oprah Winfrey's 2025 book club picks!

Amazon

The Tell by Amy Griffin

Amy Griffin's memoir tells a story of a woman whose life was consumed with pursing the next greatest thing, but she didn't realize she was chasing perfectionism until her daughter pointed out how distant she felt. Serving as Amy's wakeup call, she decided to confront her past with the help of psychedelic therapy and even made her way back to Texas to relive childhood memories.
Discovering key things about herself, Griffin also tasks readers with looking inside themselves for the answers to questions about who they are and what they want.

Amazon

A New Earth: Awakening to Your Life's Purpose by Eckhart Tolle

Eckhart Tolle is expounding on his teachings in The Power of Now to help us finally stop making "ego-based" decisions. He feels it's time for us to live a life that's not governed by flighty definitions of happiness while also sharing ways we don't have to experience as much as mental or emotional pain.

In a world that feels more divided than ever over every little thing, we think it's a great read for those who are anxious to see a change. As this book proves, the work starts within ourselves.

Looking for more to read? Add Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick to your TBR list next!

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

This post has been updated.

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10 Mike White Movies & TV Shows To Binge While You Wait For 'The White Lotus' Season 4

If you've spent the last couple of months glued to your screen watching The White Lotus, then you're already familiar with the genius of Mike White. The insanely popular HBO show just aired its divisive season 3 finale, and plenty of viewers are upset about parting ways with the series for now.

However,The White Lotus is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Mike White's filmography. He's had a hand in plenty of hidden gems and fan favorites, from the hit movie School of Rock to the rom-com The Good Girl and the teen drama Dawson's Creek.

So, as we eagerly await Season 4 of The White Lotus, you can still get your Mike White fix. Here are 10 TV shows and movies that he's worked on.

Scroll to see all the Mike White movies & TV shows you should watch while you wait for the next season of The White Lotus.

Black & White Productions

1. Year of the Dog

In Year of the Dog, Mike White delivers a powerful story about grief and transformation. It stars Molly Shannon as Peggy, a kindhearted woman whose life starts to unravel following the sudden death of her dog, Pencil.

But then, this story of loss turns into a journey of self-discovery as Peggy becomes an animal activist. Year of the Dog was both written and directed by Mike White.

Amazon Prime Studios

2. Brad's Status

This movie stars Ben Stiller as Brad, a guy who starts to question his achievements when comparing himself to his more "successful" college friends during a trip with his son.

The comedy-drama tackles themes of envy, regret, and insecurities, but still has Mike White's signature stamp of subtle humor. Other cast members in Brad's Status include Austin Abrams, Luke Wilson, and Michael Sheen.

Paramount

3. School of Rock

School of Rock is one of Mike White's most successful projects. While the 2003 film was actually directed by Richard Linklater, it was Mike who penned the script and let Jack Black shine as Dewey Finn, who fakes his way into a substitute teaching job.

To this day, School of Rock remains a cult classic that's high energy and takes viewers on a feel-good journey.

Editor's Note: Haley Sprankle wants the world to know this is her favorite movie of all time. In her opinion, it's truly a perfect film and should be a required viewing for everyone. Let's rock today!

HBO

4. Enlightened

Before The White Lotus, there was Enlightened, an HBO series that showcased Mike White's talent for creating complex and flawed characters.

Laura Dern stars as Amy Jellicoe, a corporate executive whose public meltdown leads her down a path of spiritual awakening and reinvention. It's a quiet but powerful precursor to Mike's storytelling style, which he perfected in The White Lotus.

Odeon Films

5. Chuck & Buck

Chuck & Buck is an uncomfortable yet oddly touching indie film that showcases Mike White's talent for balancing cringey humor with emotional depth.

He actually stars as Buck, a socially awkward man who's still clinging to a childhood friendship with Chuck, played by Chris Weitz. This early screenplay, which came out in 2000, laid the groundwork for his distinctive tone.

Fox Searchlight Pictures

6. The Good Girl

Jennifer Aniston stars as Justine, a bored and unhappily married retail worker in The Good Girl. Then, she has an affair with her younger coworker named Holden, played by Jake Gyllenhaal.

This lesser-known rom-com came out in 2002, and Mike White's writing style helps bring out the complexity of seemingly mundane lives. Other cast members in The Good Girl include John C. Reilly, Deborah Rush, Tim Blake Nelson, and Zooey Deschanel.

Paramount Pictures

7. Orange County

Again, Mike's unique perspective brought a clever twist to the teen comedy genre in Orange County. Colin Hanks stars as Shaun, a high school student who's desperate to get into Stanford, but because of an application mix-up, his dreams are derailed.

With the help of his brother Lance, portrayed by Jack Black, he tries to make things right and ultimately realizes he can achieve his dreams closer to home.

Paramount

8. Nacho Libre

You may not have known that Mike White co-wrote Nacho Libre, the strangely sweet 2006 comedy starring Jack Black. In the film, Jack plays Nacho, a monastery cook who secretly moonlights as a masked wrestler to help support the orphans he cares for.

Even in 2025, Nacho Libre remains a cult classic (and continues to inspire plenty of Halloween costumes every year).

Universal

9. Despicable Me 4

The heartwarming and family-friendly Despicable Me 4 is a far cry from The White Lotus, but believe it or not, Mike White had a hand in writing this massively successful animated film, too.

While it's definitely different than most of his filmography, viewers can still feel Mike's style in the movie's mix of bizarre humor and unexpected emotional beats. This iteration of the franchise follows Gru as he balances fatherhood while facing yet another villainous threat.

The WB

10. Dawson's Creek

Lastly, Mike White also flexed his writing muscles on the teen drama hit Dawson's Creek, which ran from 1998 to 2003. The show followed a group of close-knit friends as they navigated the messiness of young adulthood and love in a small town.

Dawson's Creek featured stars like James Van Der Beek, Joshua Jackson, Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, and Chad Michael Murray.

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Jenna Bush Hager's April Book Club Pick Is Perfect For Fans Of 'The God Of The Woods'

Who knew we'd fall deeper in love with reading while covering Jenna Bush Hager's book club last year? With her help, we learned to look beyond our love for rom-com tropes and embraced tales about forgiveness, finding one's identity, and looking in the past to see what shapes families.

So far, her 2025 picks feel timely as we make sense of an ever evolving world where everyone's thoughts about love are so different. At their core, these titles are powerful pieces of art that will make readers stop to consider how they want to remember their lives.

Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club picks

April 2025

Amazon

Heartwoodby Amity Gaige

Valerie Gillis knows her way around trails, but she somehow miscalculates and becomes lost in the Maine woods. In between writing heartfelt letters to her mom and trying to survive, she begins wondering if she'll ever see home again.Then there's Maine State Game Warden Beverly and her determined search for the missing hiker. Though she's convinced she has everything under control, birdwatcher Lena begins her own unofficial investigation using her watchful skills. Over time, both women's observations reveal a greater plot at hand which may signal that Valerie's circumstances were pre-orchestrated. The question is who planned to knock her off-course?

March 2025

Amazon

The Dream Hotel by Laila Lalami

The Dream Hotel starts off with oppressed women being held against their will and ends with a revolutionary act that dismantles the very system meant to keep them locked away. Readers will meet Sara, the main protagonist, and other women who have been detained by the Risk Assessment Administration for being possible "threats" to society. In her case, she's charged with the fact she might put her husband's life in danger.

As readers can surmise, the rules aren't consistent at the center they're being held and their "sentences" stretch out to the point it's impossible for them to ever leave. But the RAA makes a miscalculation when they bring a new face to the center. Soon, the women they held back will expose them and others.

February 2025

Amazon

This Is a Love Storyby Jessica Soffer

Central Park has been a place of solace for lovers Abe and Jane since the beginning of their journey together. They've been in each other's lives for five decades and have experienced the rollercoaster of life's changes. From young parents to career-minded individuals, they've been through it all.
But their story is coming to a close because Jane's life is slowly slipping away and Abe is doing his best to remember every moment of their lives. From watching a young student search for something that makes sense to her to dealing with their son's complicated feelings about Jane, This Is a Love Story is truly for the lovers who knows there's magic in the little moments we take for granted.
Jenna Bush Hager says, "THIS IS A LOVE STORY is a powerful, unforgettable tribute to love, marriage, and the enduring strength of art," (via Instagram).

January 2025 

Amazon

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight

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

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

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

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

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

This post has been updated.

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Um, Sophia Bush Finally Spoke On Why Peyton Skipped Brooke's Wedding In 'One Tree Hill': "I Went Ballistic"

One Tree Hill fans go through a lot throughout the show's 9-season run. Everything from family drama to psycho stalkers, kidnappers, and murder. But there's one down-to-earth moment in the series that confuses fans just as much as the outlandish ones: when Brooke (Sophia Bush) marries Julian (Austin Nichols) and her BFF Peyton (Hilarie Burton) isn't there.

Here's why Peyton (and Hilarie Burton) didn't come back for Brooke's wedding on One Tree Hill.

Why did Peyton not go to Brooke's wedding?

@dramaqueenspodcast hilarie wasn't invited back to Brooke wedding #brulian#austinnichols#julianbaker#sophiabush#brookedavis#haleyjamesscott#peytonsawyer#bethanyjoylenz#dramaqueensoth#dramaqueenspodcast#onetreehill#braley♬ original sound - Drama Queens Podcast

In an episode of their Drama Queens rewatch podcast, Sophia Bush finally explained the real reason Peyton wasn't at Brooke's wedding: Hilarie Burton just...wasn't asked.

"Since you're talking about how much sh—t you got, I feel like this is a really important moment to tell our fans that we were told, Joy and I, that you had been invited back for the episode and said no," Sophia Bush says. "They had essentially asked us in the press to be like, 'Oh, well, you know, she was invited to come but was doing White Collar,' or whatever you were working on at the time...When I talked to you and found out that was a lie, I went ballistic. I was so mad. Oo I was mad!"

Sophia did tell Hollywood Life in 2011 that, "We really tried, and we of course would have been thrilled because their characters were big parts of our story. It doesn’t always work. So for the fans out there who always ask me on Twitter to get the bosses to ask them back, they’ve been asked back… but scheduling conflicts are scheduling conflicts.”

“Quite frankly, we just couldn’t make a deal,” creator Mark Schwahn also told TV Line at the time. “Everybody had the best intentions. But at the end of the day, it just didn’t work out.”

The fact that Peyton didn't show up to Brooke's wedding has always been a pain point with fans because it just doesn't make sense for her to miss her lifelong best friend's wedding! "Peyton should have been at Brooke's wedding," Bethany Joy Lenz says.

"Peyton should have been there and it wasn't up to any of us," Sophia adds.

Hilarie shed some light on the situation from her perspective, explaining that she only remembers getting one call to guest star, but she was heavily pregnant.

"I was pregnant with Gus, it was in October of I guess season 7, and my manager got a call that was like, 'Hilarie's on the board for this episode, so we're trying schedule her travel,'" she explains. "And we had had an epic fallout as I left the show, and my manager had been told all these things by our bosses that were just like horrific about me and that I'd never work again and all this stuff. And so it was just this really pleasant call from, like, a secretary...I was like super pregnant! And I was like 'Uh, I'm unavailable.'"

"We'll just have to do it again," Hilarie adds. Who knows, maybe the One Tree Hill sequel series will feature a vow renewal!

Does Brooke marry anyone in One Tree Hill?

Warner Bros. TV

Yes, Brooke Davis marries film producer Julian Davis after he proposes in the season 7 finale, "Almost Everything I Wish I'd Said the Last Time I Saw You" — my favorite episode of television ever!

What episode does Brooke get married in One Tree Hill?

Brooke and Julian get married in One Tree Hill season 8, episode 13, "The Other Half Of Me."

Check out The One Moment That Proves Brooke Davis Is The Best Character On One Tree Hill for more!

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42 Fashion Finds to Perfect the 'Tennis-core' Aesthetic

The tennis-core aesthetic is making waves this season, and it's not just for the courts. It's all about bringing sporty elegance into everyday style with classic polos, pleated skirts, and accessories that add a touch of charm. These 42 stylish finds will help you master the trend, both on and off the court.

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.

Master the Look With a Pleated Tennis Skirt

Amazon

This pleated tennis skirt serves both style and function. It features built-in shorts to keep you secure and hidden pockets for extra convenience. And yes, it even has a spot for your phone.

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Combine Fashion and Functionality With a Tennis Dress

Amazon

With this tennis dress, looks won’t be the only thing you’re serving. It has a flattering fit, built-in shorts with hidden pockets, and a collared neckline that nails the tennis-core aesthetic, whether you're on the court or running errands.

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Accessorize With a Lightweight Visor

Amazon

A visor is a must for completing your look, and we found the perfect one. It has an adjustable velcro strap for a comfy fit and comes in over 20 colors to coordinate with your outfit.

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Layer Your Look With a Court Approved Oversized Cardigan

Amazon

Layer your look with an oversized cardigan. This one features the cutest contrast stitching and looks effortlessly chic over a tennis dress or activewear set.

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Every Tennis Inspired Look Needs a Pair of Slouch Socks

Amazon

These slouch socks add cozy vibes without taking away from the sporty look. They come in a pack of three and pair perfectly with chunky sneakers. You can even grab them in a few color options to mix and match.

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You Can't Forget a Pair of Chunky White Sneakers

Amazon

Speaking of chunky sneakers, you definitely need a pair to complete the tennis-core look. These have a breathable design, a supportive fit, and they're cute enough to work with pretty much anything.

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This Knit Tee Will Give Any Fit a Sporty Look

Amazon

Collared tops like this knit tee are a foolproof way to rock the tennis aesthetic. It features a cropped fit and classic collar that you can style a million different ways.

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This Workout Jacket Is a Must-Have

Amazon

Not only is this workout jacket insanely comfortable, it’s also super flattering. The slim fit snatches your waist and gives you that hourglass shape instantly. Plus, it comes in tons of colors and has built-in thumbholes.

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Add Some Shine to Your Look With These Tennis Bracelets

Amazon

Of course, we couldn’t forget a tennis bracelet, and this set gives you options. It includes three different designs with varying clasps so you can mix, match, or stack them for a layered look.

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Accessorize From Head-to-Toe With These Headbands

Amazon

Headbands are back in style and they’re the perfect tennis-core accessory. This set comes with three headbands in cute color combos, so you can match your vibe effortlessly.

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This Athletic Dress Has Plenty of Support

Amazon

Athletic dresses are comfy, cute, and made to flatter any figure. This one has a built-in bra and shorts for extra support, plus a bold color block design that’ll turn heads on and off the court.

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This Workout Set Was Made for the Tennis-Core Aesthetic

Amazon

This workout set makes nailing the tennis-core look effortless. It combines a pleated tennis skirt with a cropped polo tee that's perfect for rallying on the court or wearing daily.

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You Can Never Go Wrong With a Romper

Amazon

A romper is always a win. This one has a waist cutout for breathability, layered shorts with hidden compression shorts underneath, and even pockets to add functionality.

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Add a Neutral Toned Baseball Cap

Amazon

You can never go wrong with a baseball cap. This one comes in neutral and earthy tones, making it perfect for sunny days, sweaty workouts, or hiding a bad hair day.

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This Pullover Has a Built-in Layered Look

Amazon

This pullover is ideal for chillier days while sticking to the tennis-core aesthetic. It features a contrasting collar and a comfy drop shoulder that looks so good paired with any tennis skirt.

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Keep Your Look Elegant With a Cable-Knit Blouse

Amazon

Add a little texture to your look with this cable-knit blouse. The contrasting color and collared neckline are an easy way to bring some tennis-court energy into your wardrobe.

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This Sports Bra Has Built-in Padding

Amazon

The tennis skirt and sports bra duo is unmatched, and we found the perfect top. This sports bra has medium to high support with a flattering halter neckline and crisscross back straps that add a little extra flair.

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These Workout Shorts Have All of the Important Details

Amazon

Flattering running shorts are a total wardrobe cheat code. These have a V-shaped crossover waistband and flowy legs for extra comfort. Plus, they come with zippered pockets to keep your essentials secure.

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This Tennis Dress Is Practical and Stylish

Amazon

This tennis dress will have you looking like the queen of the court. It features an adjustable zipper on top, separate built-in shorts under the pleated skirt, and both inner and outer pockets. Bonus: it has a super flattering fit.

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Make Your Outfit Pop With Coordinating Socks

Amazon

Socks are a key part of the tennis-core aesthetic, and this set helps you get it right. You’ll get four pairs, all with color-contrast details that make it easy to match different tones in your outfit.

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Stay Comfortable and Stylish in These Platform Sneakers

Amazon

These Y2K-inspired sneakers blend right into the tennis-core aesthetic. They’ve got a chunky platform for a little extra height, but still feel insanely comfy thanks to their memory foam soles.

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Carry All the Essentials in This Puffer Tote Bag

Amazon

Of course, we can’t forget a matching bag, and this puffer tote is perfect for tying your whole look together. It has a sporty yet aesthetic vibe with a large capacity that makes it super practical, too.

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Keep Your Look Simple With a Polo T-Shirt

Amazon

Turn heads with this polo T-shirt. It’s a minimalistic way to lean into the tennis-core aesthetic, featuring a slim fit and a collared neckline that pulls it all together.

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You'll Never Want to Take These Sneakers Off

Amazon

These On Cloud sneakers have been all the rage recently. They totally fit the tennis-core aesthetic and are made from lightweight, cushioned material so you can stay comfy even on your feet all day.

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Pair This Flattering Skort With Anything in Your Closet

Amazon

If you’re going for a more neutral take on the trend, this skort is a good option. It’s made with buttery-soft material and comes in tons of colors that pair easily with any workout top.

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Mix and Match This Work Set

Amazon

Expand your wardrobe with this flattering workout set. The top is made from seamless, stretchy material and pairs perfectly with the colorblock pleated skirt.

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Keep Your Look Casual With This Oversized Sweater Vest

Amazon

Layer your look with this oversized sweater vest. It has a relaxed, casual fit that works perfectly tucked into a tennis skirt or worn over a dress.

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The Options for Styling This Sweater Vest Are Endless

Amazon

Elevate your tennis-core aesthetic with this fitted sweater vest. It’s ideal for layering over a collared tee, both on and off the court.

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Add Tennis-Core to Your Everyday Jewelry With This Charm Bracelet

Amazon

Charm bracelets are a great way to bring a touch of tennis-core into your everyday look. This one has a dainty, lightweight design you’ll barely notice you're wearing.

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Style Your Look With a Cozy Cardigan Shrug

Amazon

A cropped cardigan shrug is a great way to accessorize and level up your outfit. This one comes in tons of neutral or bold colors, so you can pick one that really stands out.

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Get This Sports Bra in Any Color

Amazon

If you’re looking for a simple top to pair with your tennis skirts, this sports bra is the one. It fits more like a cropped tank, but still offers plenty of support, and it comes in over 25 color options.

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This Sleeveless Tank Is Made for Sunny Days

Amazon

The loose fit and crisscross-back design of this sleeveless tank is a great way to switch up your tennis-core looks. It’s made from quick-dry athletic material and even has UPF protection for sunny days.

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These Running Shorts Are Super Flattering

Amazon

These running shorts give the illusion of a skirt, with the practicality of athletic shorts. They have a double-layered design with floaty fabric on the outside and built-in compression shorts underneath.

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This Workout Dress Has Adjustable Straps

Amazon

If you’re still unsure about the workout dress trend, this one’s a great way to try it out. It has a two-in-one design that fits like a romper with a flared skirt layered on top to add shape and movement to your look.

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This Collared Pullover Is Sure to Keep You Comfy

Amazon

You can never go wrong with a collared pullover, especially when it fits the tennis-court aesthetic. This one comes in a few cute color options, each with a trendy striped pattern that pulls the whole look together.

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Grab These Leggings in Any Color

Amazon

Leggings are a must for nailing the tennis-core aesthetic. This pair features a flattering high-rise fit with built-in tummy control and booty-lifting stitching that’ll have you looking snatched from every angle.

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This Cropped Top Goes With Any Bottoms

Amazon

Give your outfit a sporty edge with this cropped top. It has built-in padding for support and plenty of stretch, so you won’t have to sacrifice comfort or functionality. Pair it with matching leggings or a tennis skirt for an easy court side look.

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Style Your Updo With These Hair Bows

Amazon

Level up your hairstyle with one of these gorgeous hair bows. They’re made from silky material and attached to an oversized clip that’ll keep your hair out of your face while you serve looks on and off the court.

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This Sweater Is the Ideal Layering Piece

Amazon

This sweater has a flattering front tie that makes it the perfect layering piece over tennis dresses. It’s made from soft ribbed material and cut in a cropped fit to show off your waist.

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Add Some Fun Texture to Your Look With This Belt Bag

Amazon

A belt bag is the ultimate way to accessorize your athletic wear. This one adds both functionality and flair, thanks to its soft sherpa texture and range of fun color options.

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Expand Your Collection With a Pack of Sports Bras

Amazon

With this pack of sports bras, you’ll have the tennis-core aesthetic on lock all week long. Each bra has a comfy fit and a strappy crisscross back that looks great on its own or layered under a top.

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This Workout Top That Every Gym-Goer Knows About

Amazon

Amazon is known for creating and selling some of the most affordable alternatives for expensive athleisure. One of their most popular products that everyone on social media has been raving about is this workout top that looks just like the one from expensive retailers, but at a fraction of the cost. It is extremely stretchy and comfortable, making it the perfect go-to everyday top!

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