Reese Witherspoon's 101th Book Club Pick Uncovers The Truth Of One Secret Society

reese witherspoon's book club october 2024 pick

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading one book every two days in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP. Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book clubβ€” continues to highlight books with women at the center and girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood.

To celebrate her 101th pick, Reese Witherspoon has chosen one of best debut dark academia books we've read this year. She said, "If you’re looking for a page-turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat this spooky season, this one is a must-read! πŸ‘€ Visit our link in bio to get your copy now." (via Reese's Book Club).Alongside the other 35 titles I think are worth diving into, Secret Society of Lies is sucre to take our emotions on a ride!

After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 29 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 21 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

October: Society of Lies

Amazon

Society of Lies by Lauren Ling Brown

Maya's back in town for her reunion at Princetown and she's excited to celebrate with familiar faces. It also coincides with her sister Naomi's graduation. As she gets ready for the best weekend ever, she receives the tragic news of Naomi's death and it leaves her shaken to her core. Though everyone says it was an accident, Maya's gut is telling her otherwise.

The more Maya digs into the past, the more she realizes her sister wasn't telling her. Sadly, Naomi was a part of the Sterling Club and it crushes her because she never wanted her sister to join it. Maya's no stranger to the inner workings of the Serling Club because she used to be a member so she knows everything that went on behind the scenes.

As she works to understand what happened to her sister, Maya will come face to face with the memories and secrets that haunt her.

September: The Comfort of Crows

Amazon

The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year by Margaret Renkl

Over the course of 52 chapters, Margaret Renkl invites readers into the wonders of her backyard. For a year, she watched various animals and plants bloom during varying seasons that speak to the cycles of life. From the way our emotions ebb and flow to the periods where we're active or need rest, The Comfort of Crows: A Backyard Year is a beautiful read that will help us fall in love with every moment of life.

August 2024: Slow Dance

Amazon

Slow Danceby Rainbow Rowell

Best friends Shiloh and Cary thought they had everything figured out when they were in high school. They decided they'd both leave Omaha behind, start their careers, and maintain the tight-knit friendship they'd always had. But, life is known to thrown curveballs when we least expect it.
When Shiloh looks up one day, she realizes it's been over 10 years since she talked to her former best friend. She's also increasingly aware that she's now a single mom to two kids.

While she tries to put the pieces of her new life together, Shiloh receives an invitation that makes her heart thunder. The invitation itself is harmless, but she can't stop thinking about what will happen if she sees Cary.

Despite how many years have passed, Shiloh and Cary are pulled to each other's energy as if no time has passed. They've both missed each other, but now adulthood has given way to deeper feelings that may have been there all along.

July 2024: The Cliffs

Amazon

The Cliffs by J. Courtney Sullivan

Would you be willing to journey back to a place you once sought refuge as a teen? What if it looked and felt different than you remembered? What if you discovered secrets and buried ghosts that no longer want to remain hidden?

These are questions that Jane Flanagan finds herself answering as she journeys back to Maine after being away for some time. The house she used to seek refuge in has been renovated by a woman named Genevieve, but she feels that all of her hard work has gone to waste because things don't feel right.

She enlists the help of Jane to see if there are ghosts that wander the halls of the house and that's when the discoveries begin to happen. Jane realizes that some parts of history is impossible to erase no matter how much you try to paint over them.

June 2024: The Unwedding

Amazon

The Unwedding by Ally Condie

Ellery Wainwright is left reeling after it's clear she and her husband won't be celebrating their twentieth wedding anniversary together in Big Sur, California. Never mind the fact she's dreaming about how it would be the perfect way to applaud themselves for building such a wonderful life together.

But, life comes at you fast and she's left ambling around the resort while people are prepping for a wedding. Talk about a slap in the face. Still, she begins observing all the newness that comes with people planning to spend the rest of their lives together. As beautiful as it is, she can't help but to feel unsettled the longer she's at the resort.

Sadly, her suspicions are confirmed when she finds the groom's dead body. This all but chokes the beauty of the resort from her heart and when someone else dies, it's clear that the unfortunate party is just getting started.

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

Amazon

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

Amazon

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters β€” Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace β€” each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man β€” Jonah Bendt β€” shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Amazon

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DΓ©Lana R.A. Dameron

Amazon

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Amazon

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

Amazon

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury β€” especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

Amazon

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Amazon

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Amazon

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them β€” until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

Amazon

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Amazon

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past β€” and their secrets β€” don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise β€” and fall β€” of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara NoviΔ‡ 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by MarΓ­a Amparo EscandΓ³n 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers β€” regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

Amazon

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister β€” and that her older sister is an Instagram star β€” the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by BrenΓ© Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • β€œThe Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

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This post has been updated.

After only two episodes of Only Murders in the Building season 4, Hulu renewed the series for season 5! I'm so excited that the show breaks a recent pattern of cancelling shows after the third or fourth season, giving us more time with our favorite characters, and I'm not the only one.

"Here we go again… my favorite set family. I’m coming home!" Selena Gomez says in an Instagram post, while the official Only Murders account made their own post, saying, "We had our lawyers call business affairs. Turned the 4 into a 5. #OnlyMurdersInTheBuilding is coming back for Season 5!!"

In addition to the show entering production, the one and only RenΓ©e Zellweger (Bridget Jones: Mad About The Boy) just joined the cast. Iconic!

Here's everything you need to know about Only Murders in the Building season 5, coming to Hulu soon.

Who's in the Only Murders in the Building season 5 cast?

Eric McCandless/Disney

The Only Murders in the Building season 5 cast features all our favorites, and some new faces! According to Dan Fogelman, β€œwe can expect more big guest stars that’ll probably be announced sooner rather than later,” he tells The Wrap.

"I am so grateful that I have been surrounded by human beings that make me better, challenge me, remind me day after day that every moment is a gift," Selena Gomez says about working with Steve Martin and Martin Short. "That’s my pure joy. I thank god for the era I’m in. It’s been the best yet."

The Only Murders season 5 cast includes:

  • Selena Gomez as Mabel Mora: a true crime lover who begins her own podcast after getting sucked into a murder mystery.
  • Martin Short as Oliver Putnam: a theatre director and founder of the Only Murders in the Building podcast.
  • Steve Martin as Charles Hayden Savage: an actor and true crime lover who begins the Only Murders podcast with Oliver and Mabel.
  • TΓ©a Leoni as Sofia Caccimelio: a woman who approaches the podcast trio after her husband Nicky goes missing.
  • RenΓ©e Zellweger
  • Christoph Waltz
  • Keegan-Michael Key

What is Only Murders in the Building season 5 about?

Patrick Harbron/Disney

We finally got our first details about Only Murders season 5 β€” and we're going in a direction I totally didn't expect. When Sofia visits Mabel and Charles in the season 4 ending, and asks them to find her missing husband, she's disappointed when they turn her down. And since TΓ©a Leoni just joined the season 5 cast, it looks like she's not taking no for an answer.

β€œI think she’s the great tease at the end of the finale and a little bit of an intriguing bump forward,” co-creator John Hoffman says in an interview with Deadline. β€œShe’s an extension of the little news report in Episode 9 that Mabel makes note of at the hospital. [Sofia] is the wife of the Dry Cleaning King of Brooklyn, and maybe a couple of dry cleaning outlets in Manhattan, as well, we may come to know...It’s a world opened up potentially that we haven’t talked about too much yet in New York, so she holds a lot of intrigue.”

Patrick Harbron/Hulu

New York's underground is a wild space that we haven't really seen on Only Murders yet so I know we're in for one very interesting season β€” because if this show is going to go there, they're going to go there.

Executive producer Dan Fogelman told The Wrapwe can look forward to β€œanother big fun mystery the writers have been cooking up," while Hoffman has gone on the record saying the new episodes will β€œhit on some very current things going on within New York, specifically very relevant things that are happening in the city right now.”

When is Only Murders in the Building season 5 coming out?

Patrick Harbron/Hulu

There's no Only Murders in the Building season 5 release date quite yet, but the show is in production! Considering we've had a new season over the last four years (with season 1 in 2021, season 2 in 2022, season 3 in 2023, and season 4 in 2024), we're expecting to see season 5 in 2025. Stay tuned for the official Only Murders season 5 release date.

How many episodes are there in Only Murders in the Building season 5?

Patrick Harbron/Hulu

Only Murders in the Building season 5 will have 10 episodes total on Hulu.

Check back here for the latest Only Murders in the Building season 5 news and check out the other new TV shows coming in 2025.

This post has been updated.

TV shows have the unique ability to capture the cultural pulse of their time, and sitcoms might just be the greatest example. They're packed with relevant humor and characters that are supposed to be relatable, so they quickly become staples in homes across the country.

However, as we continue to evolve as a society, so do our standards, and plenty of shows you might've watched as a kid or teen now just seem dated or even downright offensive in hindsight. Here are some classic sitcoms that, while once iconic, haven't aged well.

Scroll to see all the sitcoms that actually aged really badly...

CBS

1. How I Met Your Mother

It's natural to have flawed characters in TV series, but one How I Met Your Mother character in particular, Barney Stinson, is especially problematic. Portrayed by Neil Patrick Harris, Barney is known for being manipulative and casually misogynistic.

For instance, he has a "playbook" of pick-up lines, regularly lies to women just to sleep with them, and perpetuates toxic masculinity. Barney's behavior might've been able to snag some laughs back in the day, but his disrespectful actions wouldn't be so well-received by audiences in 2025.

Warner Bros. Television

2. Two and a Half Men

Two and a Half Men continues to air on TV and stream across platforms, but that doesn't mean its premise isn't controversial.

Charlie Sheen plays Charlie Harper, a man who routinely treats women as objects for his own pleasure and perpetuates harmful gender stereotypes. Not to mention, Charlie's behavior is showcased in front of his young nephew, Jake, who becomes privy to situations that are way too mature for a kid.

Sure, there is humor in the tension between Charlie and his brother, Alan. Nonetheless, the line between comedy and inappropriate content is definitely blurred.

ABC

3. Ugly Betty

Both the title and plot of Ugly Betty probably wouldn't hold up if it were released today. The show revolves around Betty Suarez, played by America Ferrera, who is a smart, ambitious, and kind-hearted young woman. However, since she wears glasses, has braces, and doesn't follow fashion trends, she's deemed "ugly" and deals with constant ridicule after landing a job at a fashion magazine.

It's undeniable that Ugly Betty is packed with both funny and heartfelt moments. Nonetheless, the way the show treats Betty's looks and reinforces harmful beauty standards feels super outdated in our more body-positive and inclusive era.

20th Century Fox Television

4. That 70's Show

When you think of That 70's Show, you might picture the classic bell-bottom-wearing friend group sitting around, surrounded by clouds of smoke. Compared to how the character Fes, played by Wilmer Valderrama, was treated, the underage drug use seems relatively tame.

As the "foreign exchange student," Fes is not only given a name that reduces him to being an outsider, but a lot of the humor surrounding his character also just relies on racist stereotypes. That 70's Show might've intended to be lighthearted, but it's tough to imagine a modern sitcom leaning on so many old tropes.

CBS

5. Everybody Loves Raymond

Despite being a funny character, Ray Barone, played by Ray Romano, reinforces problematic gender roles in Everybody Loves Raymond.

He comes off as a passive husband who typically sides with his mother over his wife, leaving his wife to shoulder much of the emotional labor and household chores. This old-fashioned family dynamic feels especially inappropriate today when modern sitcoms are trying to challenge these old stereotypes.

CBS

6. The Big Bang Theory

The initial appeal of The Big Bang Theory centered around nerd culture being quirky and odd, but today, this kind of "otherness" just isn't considered funny anymore.

Each character also has their own specific issues, with Raj's selective mutism being played for laughs, Penny embodying the "dumb blonde" stereotype, and Sheldon's behavior that's exaggerated for comedic effect. In 2025, this sitcom seems repetitive and shallow since it leans too heavily on stereotypes.

Touchstone Television

7. Home Improvement

When it comes to Home Improvement, this show pushed a traditional narrative where men are defined by their roles as the breadwinners and having handyman skills; meanwhile, a woman's value is tied to her appearance and household duties.

Tim Taylor, played by Tim Allen, is a one-dimensional character whose storyline almost totally revolves around his role as the host of "Tool Time," a fictional TV show. Not to mention, there's the "Tool Time girl," a woman whose sole purpose is to stand and look attractive while introducing Tim and his co-host. The lack of depth and outdated gender tropes make Home Improvement a tough watch today.

CBS

8. According to Jim

On a similar note, the show According to Jim features a father, played by Jim Belushi, who embodies traditional gender roles. His behavior doesn't fit the mold of the typical sitcom dad, though, since Jim is always lying to his wife and sister, interrupting others, and acting just plain rude.

In hindsight, Jim's character perpetuates misogyny and being overly macho, something that probably wouldn't fly if made today.

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We've been teasing news surrounding Emily Henry's newest book Great Big Beautiful Lifesince last year partly because her enthusiasm made us want to learn everything we can about it. Fortunately, we're not the only ones because Cosmopolitan just shared an exclusive excerpt from its pages!

All it's doing is making us want to do is watch two writers fall in love while they unravel the enigma of the personality they may get a chance to profile. Ready to feel your heart racing as you get a glimpse of their personalities?

Scroll to read the thrilling excerpt from Great Big Beautiful Life!

Here's A Preview Of The 'Great Big Beautiful Life' Excerpt

Amazon

The excerpt starts off with Alice's POV as she's assessing Hayden's aloof nature. She says, "He can’t be as bad as he seems. And even if he is, it’s not like we’ll be spending time together," as they make their way to the Grande Lucia Resort they'll be lodging at (via Cosmopolitan).

There's an air of excitement surrounding Alice, but Hayden appears like he could care less about her enthusiasm based on these lines: "I glide back onto the mostly empty four-lane road that connects the mainland and Little Crescent and slow to a stop at a red light. Hayden’s in the next car over. He notices me too. I wave. He frowns."


While he does eventually talk to her, it's not like he's looking to be besties with his competition. From gruffly offering Alice a choice of days to interview Margaret Ives to lamenting the fact her hotel room is right next to his, Hayden doesn't seem like the kind of writer who's looking to be distracted. It could have everything to do with him feeling like he was "strung along for a month before even finding out" he and Alice would be in competition to secure the position of writing Margaret's biography.

It's apparent Alice Scott and Hayden Anderson aren't on friendly terms towards the beginning of Great Big Beautiful Life, but the excerpt Cosmopolitan's obtained paints a vivid picture of their enemies-to-lovers troupe. Though it's one of the most familiar book trends, Emily Henry refreshes it by adding the element of surprise to the novel's undertones. Lurking the two writers interactions with each other and the elusive Margaret Ives are hidden secrets that are ready to burst at their seams.

Listen To The 'Great Big Beautiful Life' Excerpt

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Hearing the excerpt aloud is making us even more anxious to stop everything to read Great Big Beautiful Life. Between us, we won't be surprised if this book's tapped for a movie adaptation too!

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Getting stuck in a cooking rut often means reaching for the same ingredients without realizing healthier β€” and just as tasty β€”alternatives are within easy reach. The good news? You don’t need to overhaul your routine to make a difference. With just a few simple cooking swaps, you can give your favorite meals a healthy twist, cut back on refined ingredients, and enjoy more nourishing ingredients every day.

Here are five easy cooking swaps to try this week!

Shameel Mukkath

1. Swap Sour Cream for Greek Yogurt

Get that creamy tang without the extra fat. Greek yogurt is packed with protein, lower in calories, and often contains probiotics, which are great for your gut health. Greek yogurt is delicious in dips, dressings, or even dolloped on tacos or (my favorite) grilled salmon.

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2. Use Olive Oil Instead of Butter

For sautΓ©ing or drizzling, EVOO adds heart-healthy fats and antioxidants. It’s a flavorful upgrade that also supports better cholesterol levels than butter. Just make sure to cook it at a lower heat, under 430 degrees is recommended.

Ella Olsson

3. Choose Whole Grains Over Refined

Trade white rice or pasta for brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat pasta. Whole grains are higher in fiber β€” and the secret to a healthy Mediterraneandiet β€” keeping you fuller longer and supporting digestive health. Cauliflower rice and spaghetti squash are also healthy alternatives to white rice and pasta and you get the added bonus of an extra veggie in your meal.

Foodie Factor

4. Swap Mayo for Avocado

Avocados, an excellent source of healthy unsaturated fats, make a great swap for traditional mayo in baking and preparing your favorite sandwich. Avocado oil mayo is also a healthy alternative and you'll taste nearly no difference.

Lefteris kallergis on Unsplash

5. Add Veggies to Everything

I shred cauliflower or carrots into my daughter's pancakes to give an extra nutrient boost. Sneak in shredded zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower rice into sauces, casseroles, or even baked goods. Swap hearty mushrooms, beets or eggplant for burgers too. It’s a simple way to eat more fiber and vitamins without changing the dish, or taste, too much.

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Embrace the carefree, wild-hearted vibe of a boho aesthetic for your festival fun this summer. Let folk music and the beauty of nature inspire your festival looks, from billowy palazzo pants to fringed jackets. And get in touch with your cosmic spirit with accessories like chakra necklaces and moonstone rings. These 42 summer-y fashion finds are the perfect way to embody boho, blissful vibes for every festival.

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.

Stay Cozy and Cool in the Crochet Hoodie Dress

Amazon

This crochet hoodie dress is a laidback indie look that fits the eccentric aesthetic perfectly while having a modern flair. The crocheted design is hippy-dippy, and you can wear it with pants or with a bodysuit.

See it on Amazon

Twirl and Frolic in This Paisley Maxi Skirt

Amazon

Feel like a free spirit in this flowy, twirly paisley maxi skirt. The layered, patchwork style is beautifully eclectic and offers a nomadic aesthetic. It's an effortless way to create a lovely boho look with one item.

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Slide Into These Cork Sandals

Amazon

These cork sandals will keep you comfortable as you walk from stage to stage. The cork insole is firm but spongey, absorbing shock impact with each step. And the earth-toned, strappy upper has a casual hippy vibe that works with pants or dresses.

See it on Amazon

Peace, Love, and Heart Sunglasses

Amazon

Radiate love and good vibes throughout your festival with these heart-shaped sunglasses. They give you complete UV protection and have an exquisite design that feels high-end. Wear them with your New Age looks, or create retro outfits with them at your next concert.

See it on Amazon

Twirl to the Music in This Babydoll Dress

Amazon

This dainty babydoll dress has a deep V-neck and backless silhouette with a short, flowy bottom that creates a wild-hearted vibe. The layered skirt offers a voluminous look, and the simple texture is ripe for accessorizing.

See it on Amazon

Glow in These Beaded Sunset Earrings

Amazon

You'll look as radiant and warm as the sunset with these beaded earrings, made with hypoallergenic brass and glass seed beads. They're lightweight but make a stylish impact that enhances your outfit with a sun-drenched vibe.

See it on Amazon

Glimmer With This Sun Pendant Waist Belt

Amazon

Elevate your outfit with this golden pendant belt and bring some sunshine wherever you go. The layered style gives any look a lavish feel while maintaining that sunny wanderlust vibe. Wear it with a wispy dress, a fitted bodysuit, or bell-bottom jeans.

See it on Amazon

Embrace Flower Power in This Floral Skort

Amazon

This ruffled skort is fabulous for festivals, giving you the comfort and coverage of shorts with the elegance and playfulness of a flowy skirt. Select one of the many dainty floral patterns to create a unique look that radiates flower power.

See it on Amazon

Move and Groove in Stretchy Jean Shorts

Amazon

These stretchy denim shorts offer a classic festival look along with supreme comfort. The cutoff style gives them a relaxed vibe, while the cotton, polyester, and spandex blend makes them flexible, so you can dance and squat and do it all.

See it on Amazon

Step to the Beat in These Suede Wide-Calf Boots

Amazon

These wide-calf suede boots are the definition of chic boho, with a sandy brown material but a runway-ready silhouette. The low kitten heels keep them comfy enough for a three-day festival, and the knee-high style is sassy and luxurious.

See it on Amazon

Strut Your Stuff in Embroidered Bell-Bottom Jeans

Amazon

You won't just wear these floral embroidered bell bottoms to your next festival; you'll wear them to your next concert, Sunday brunch, trivia night, and beyond. The 100% cotton denim is comfortable and durable, ensuring these beautiful hippy pants withstand all the festival fun.

See it on Amazon

Carry All Your Essentials in This Daisy Crossbody Bag

Amazon

Keep your phone, wallet, and keys safe with this dainty daisy crossbody bag. It's embroidered with yellow and white daisies for an endearing look, but the zippered pockets, removable strap, and canvas material make it a versatile festival must-have.

See it on Amazon

This Jewelry Set Is All the Turquoise You Need

Amazon

This turquoise jewelry set comes with all the boho bling you could need for a whole summer of festivals. It includes 24 pieces, including pendant necklaces, bracelets, stone rings, and dramatic dangly or hoop earrings.

See it on Amazon

Look Like a Goddess in a Lacy Sun Dress

Amazon

This beachy maxi dress has a folky aesthetic, with tassel and pom-pom accents. The eggshell-colored floral lace is ethereal and drapey, ideal for hot days in the sun. The dress has a high-low cut that keeps it informal while looking graceful.

See it on Amazon

Stay Cute and Cozy in This Tie Dye T-Shirt

Amazon

Create a laidback outfit with this cool tie-dye T-shirt with a sun and moon mandala design. This top brings all the good vibes, with a soft cotton and stretchy elastane fabric blend. And the whimsical graphic print radiates cosmic energy.

See it on Amazon

Mushroom Stud Earrings for a Woodland Aesthetic

Amazon

These mushroom studs are perfect for boho or cottagecore aesthetics, and the hypoallergenic design won't irritate your skin. You can feel like one with the earth when you put these on and curate a foresty, woodland aura.

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Block the Sun the Boho Way With Oversized Round Sunglasses

Amazon

Nothing is quite as boho as an oversized pair of sunglasses. These round-frame glasses have an ombre lens that will block out the bright festival sun while enhancing your flower child look. And they're cut enough to wear after festival season, too.

See it on Amazon

Get Wild in Cow Print Bell Bottoms

Amazon

Yeehaw! These cow print bell bottoms are boho meets cowgirl, giving you that country, hipster vibe that is perfect for a festival with all music genres. The tight fit gives you a saucy, tailored look that works with tiny crop tops or billowy peasant shirts.

See it on Amazon

Jump Into This Floral Jumpsuit

Amazon

This floral jumpsuit is as relaxed and comfy as pajamas but as trendy as your favorite summer dress. With pockets to hold your essentials and a smocked top, it offers an easygoing fit that's functional enough for a long day of dancing.

See it on Amazon

Soft Headbands for a Laidback Look

Amazon

Wear these folky headbands to bring that New Age feel to any outfit and create a refined hairstyle. The pack of six includes various floral and geometric designs to accommodate your daily mood, and the stretchy, supple material stays in place all day.

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Feel Free in This Lightweight Cardigan

Amazon

Be free and eclectic in this airy cardigan that helps you cover up without overheating. It's made from 100% viscose for a silky, feather-light feel. The mandala-inspired patterns are tasteful, and the tiny tassels at the bottom are an essential boho detail.

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Be a True Flower Child in This Daisy Hair Wreath

Amazon

Embrace the Vanessa Hudgens festival aesthetic with this adorable daisy hair wreath that immediately makes you look like a Woodstock icon. The bright daisies are an enchanting addition to your outfit, and the easy-tie design makes it easy to adjust.

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Feel Like a Rebel in This Fringe Jacket

Amazon

Fringes are a classic boho element, and this fringed jacket is a must-have for chilly festival nights. The faux suede creates a vintage vibe and smooth texture, perfect for swaying to the music or sitting in the grass.

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A Down-to-Earth Floppy Straw Hat

Amazon

Keep the sun out of your eyes and accessorize with this straw hat that can be folded up and tucked into your bag. The handcrafted hat feels earthy and authentic, taking you from beach days to festival weekends.

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Giddy Up in These Cowgirl Boots

Amazon

What looks cuter with a flowy floral dress than some dusty cowgirl boots? These cream-colored suede boots are embroidered with a nature-inspired design for an elevated country look. The block heel is easy to walk in all day, and the rubber sole offers festival-level support.

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Palazzo Pants to Dance In

Amazon

These palazzo pants are made of 100% cotton, making them supremely comfy β€” you'll never want to take them off. The flowy silhouette is perfect for a summer festival, keeping you cool and covered in the heat. And they come in fabulous floral and patchwork patterns.

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Top Off Your Outfit With a Crochet Bucket Hat

Amazon

This crocheted bucket hat brings a woven flair to the skater silhouette, combining aesthetics for a unique and fashionable style. The handmade hat uses milk cotton yarn for a plush but durable feel, and the wide knit allows your head to breathe on hot days.

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Stay Lowkey in This Sunflower Shirt

Amazon

Exude organic vibes without a flashy look in this cute daisy T-shirt, made with 100% Rayon for a breathable, lightweight feel. Order it oversized and wear it as a T-shirt dress, or go down a size for a fitted, baby-tee style. Either way, the large daisy graphic will bring those bohemian vibes.

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Bring the Sparkle to Boho With Glittery Tights

Amazon

Add some glitter to your look with these rhinestone tights. The nude color keeps your outfit warm-toned, but the tiny rhinestones make your legs shimmer in the summer sun. Channel your inner boho fairy and bring a little sparkle to your vibe.

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Serve Rustic Realness in Slouchy Booties

Amazon

Lean into the rustic style with these slouchy booties that embody that '70s Woodstock aesthetic. The synthetic rubber and light design keep your feet cool in the heat, and the low heel ensures you can comfortably walk for hours.

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Strap on Your Stuff With a Boho Backpack

Amazon

Whether you're camping out or just being prepared, you can pack everything you need for your festival in this backpack. The understated geometric design is eclectic and artisanal. It's made with high-quality canvas and copper, ensuring a durable design and smooth enclosure.

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Be Sassy in This Distressed Patchwork Skirt

Amazon

Bring a modern flair to the aesthetic with this patchwork skirt, constructed with denim, spandex, and other materials that create a sturdy but stretchy texture. The skirt is comfortable enough for dancing but fashionable enough for Insta posts.

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Find Hair Harmony With Braided Hair Ties

Amazon

With these nylon hair ties, you can epitomize boho in every detail and create endearing hairstyles. The pack comes with 20 braided, knotted, or twisted hair ties you can use to throw your hair up when dancing gets sweaty or tie stylish braids, ponytails, and buns.

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Adorn Your Fingers With Gemstone Rings

Amazon

Harness the power of crystals and stones with these gemstone rings on your fingers. The pack comes with 10 distinct gem styles, from amethyst to opal, and the chunky designs ensure they make a soulful statement that elevates your look.

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Be Desert Chic in a Southwestern Jean Shacket

Amazon

Stay warm and Western in this jean shacket that offers a distressed style and folky geometric weave. The spacious front pockets are ideal for holding your phone and wallet, and the oversized, relaxed look gives you that carefree vibe.

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Center Yourself With a Chakra Necklace

Amazon

Align your chakras with this gold pendant necklace that features seven chakras in a stainless steel design. It can fall as low as your sternum for an exaggerated look, and the chakras will keep you feeling balanced during the festival chaos.

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Wander Around in These Braided Sandals

Amazon

These braided sandals offer an earthy appearance that will make you feel like Mother Nature. The vegan rubber is flexible and sturdy, supporting your feet with effortless comfort and traction. You can adjust the braids for a looser fit or a more secure feel.

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The Indie Chic Strapless Sundress

Amazon

Cultivate an indie aesthetic in this artsy strapless sundress with a smocked top that stays in place. The variety of floral and psychedelic patterns are ideal for a free-spirited aesthetic with a flirty aura.

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Stay Golden With This Sunrise Tote

Amazon

This tote bag is roomy enough to hold all your festival gear, from water bottles to fringe jackets. The 100% cotton, hand-embroidered construction is strong enough for heavier items, and the orange and yellow patchwork brings a sun-drenched vibe to your look.

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Tie-Dye Tank Top to Die For

Amazon

This simple tie-dye tank top features a sun and moon chakra design that captures the dreamy, cosmic spirit. With a cotton and elastane fabric blend, it offers a flexible, tailored fit that moves with you. Embrace the sun's energy with these warm tie-dye colors.

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Bohemian Earrings Set to Accessorize Every Outfit

Amazon

No boho outfit is complete without some untamed earrings, and this set of 45 earrings offers stunning options. From orange tassels to crescent moon styles, there's a pair for every bohemian look, plus a few refined options for everyday wear.

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Chill Out in These Hippy Pants

Amazon

These loose-fitting pants are made with 100% Rayon for a lightweight feel. They come in feather-themed designs that give them an exceptionally breezy appearance, and the smocked waist and tapered ankle make them work with a range of top and shoe styles.

See it on Amazon