Get The Most Of Seasonal Produce With These Summer Recipes

Aug 12, 2022

We're big fans of cooking with seasonal veggies and fruit because it's good for you, the environment, and your wallet. Since eating in season means you buy from local farmers, the food requires less transportation to get from the farm to the store (for example, someone might drive it across town instead of fly it across the country). Plus, the food just tastes fresher. These summer recipesfeature a few of our favorite in-season fruits and vegetables to give you some inspiration for your next trip to the grocery store or farmers market.

Late-Summer Seasonal Produce

Tomatoes
Okra
Cherries
Blackberries
Eggplants
Peaches
Watermelon

Late-Summer Seasonal Drinks

Frozen Watermelon Mint Margaritas

Watermelon is already such a juicy and hydrating fruit that it only makes sense to turn it into a drink. Lime adds a nice citrus edge, and the icy consistency makes it the perfect addition to any hot afternoon. (via Brit + Co)

Peach Frosé Recipe

Peaches and rosé go together wonderfully in this summer recipe. The addition of thyme and honey add some subtle flavor that will make this one of our favorite drinks, ever. Just add everything to a blender and pour into your go-to cocktail glass. (via Brit + Co)

Seasonal Summer Appetizers + Sides

Smoked Tomato Confit

Rosemary and garlic complement the tomatoes in this confit recipe well. You can add red pepper flakes for some spice or sugar for sweetness. Don't worry if you don't have a smoker — just pop the tomatoes in your oven instead. (via Forks & Foliage)

Watermelon-Peach Chilled Soup

If you're ready for soup season but don't want to dive into any hot recipes until the weather cools down, look no further than this recipe. It uses watermelon *and* peach for the ultimate end-of-summer treat. Top with chopped cucumbers, berries, and peaches for some extra texture. (via Brit + Co)

Greek Roasted Eggplant Dip (Melitzanosalata)

Dip pita bread, crackers, and veggies in this eggplant recipe. Vinegar, garlic, and oregano add just the right amount of flavor, and don't forget to add some olives on top for some extra saltiness. (via Salt & Lavender)

Southern Fried Okra

Fried okra is a Southern staple in the summer (try saying that five times fast). Even if you don't like plain okra, this salty, crunchy recipe might become the exception. The lemon aioli is a wonderful addition, but spicy aioli would be good, too. (via Barley & Sage)

Seasonal Lunch + Dinner Ideas

Tomato Basil Orzo

We love that this recipe can be served hot or cold, depending on your preference. Tomatoes, basil, and feta are an unbeatable combo, and make each bite complex and textured. (via Brit + Co)

Whole30 Eggplant and Tomato Caponata

This healthy recipe is chock-full of veggies that will leave you feeling good. The mix of eggplants, onions, tomatoes, and olives tastes good hot and cold and will give you a decent dose of salt. (via Brit + Co)

Watercress Salad Recipe With Grilled Peaches

Salad is always a great way to incorporate fruits and veggies into your diet, and grilling the peaches will bring out a lot of their natural sweetness. You can't go wrong pairing it with feta and nuts or adding the basil vinaigrette. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Stuffed Eggplant

This in-season recipe is a new take on beef and rice, and considering we're huge garlic fans, we are definitely not skimping on the garlic-tomato broth. Mix the uncooked rice into the beef before you stuff the eggplant, then add everything in the broth to finish cooking. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Summer Desserts

Blackberry Lavender Honeycomb Cake

A bit of lavender is the perfect way to accentuate the natural flavors of the blackberry and the honey in this summer recipe, contrasting them in a way that rounds out the flavor. The key is to simmer the lavender buds in milk to mix into the cake batter. (via Brit + Co)

Mini Cherry Heart Pies

Pop tarts just got a makeover with these cherry hand pies. These would taste great on their own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. While the recipe calls for cherry pie filling, feel free to make your own instead of buying it from the store. (via Brit + Co)

Peaches and Cream Eton Mess

Peaches and cream is a classic combo, and we love this in-season recipe because it tastes amazing without having to look amazing. "Mess" is in the name for a reason! Mint leaves are the perfect topping, and they add a little bit of color too. (via Brit + Co)

Cherry-Chocolate-Covered Donuts

We love chocolate-covered cherries, so this donut recipe is a must. Black cherry preserves (or a homemade reduction) and powdered sugar make a cherry glaze that you'll want to add to all your dessert recipes. (via Brit + Co)

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10 Cute And Comfy Road Trip Outfits We Found On Amazon

Picture this: You're heading out on an exciting road trip to a fun destination, cuddled up like the passenger princess you are with a kindle, some tasty snacks for the road, and a very adorable matching set. Matching sets are perfect travel outfits, because they're comfortable loungewear that still feels stylish and put together. And when I'm on a road trip, whether driving or being said passenger princess, I definitely wanna prioritize comfort over everything else — and it just happens to help when I look cute, too. ;) I rounded up some of my fave matching set finds from Amazon that will help you achieve that comfy, yet cute vibe for your next road trip adventure!

Amazon

Knit 2 Piece Set

This set looks Sofia Richie chic. It actually went viral on TikTok for being such an affordable, great find — and I happen to agree! It's comfy with minimal design, so it will pair with any pair of shoes you choose. This one's going with me on my next roadtrip, 100%!

Amazon

Gingham Set

It's not often I find an outfit that would be perfect for lunch in the South of France or for hours on end in the car, but that's what we call versatility! It really is such a cute set that you can wear almost anywhere. Pair this with strappy sandals and a raffia bag, and you're good to go!

Amazon

Sweatpants 2 Piece Set

Everyone needs a good sweatsuit in their wardrobe, and what better one to get than an affordable matching set from Amazon? This heather grey set will be ideal for your fall road trip to keep you warm and cozy! The best news? It's 25% off (with a coupon) at the moment, so make sure to grab it quickly!

Amazon

Beige Ribbed Sweater Set

I love the simplicity of this oatmeal-nude two-piece set, because you can wear it casually, to a movie night, or just on a road trip with your besties. I like how it's styled above for a more elevated look with gold jewelry, and a fun handbag. But you can't go wrong with some tinted moisturizer, a messy bun, and sneakers.

Amazon

Pink Two Piece Linen Set

This set is ideal for my girls who like to feel more cutesy, but still stay true to that comfortable vibe we're going for. This is usually the style I sport for roadtrips, just in case we take a fun detour to grab lunch at a nice cafe. I can be prepared for any scenario, yet still feel totally cozy in the breathable linen.

Amazon

Waffle Lounge Set

You truly can't get more comfortable loungewear than a good old waffle-knit set! And you can't beat this price either, TBH! For less than $20, you can get your newest two-piece that's sure to become your go-to. The good thing about this fabric is:

It's light
It's breathable
And it still looks good!

Amazon

Green Striped 2 Piece Set

A good striped set will carry you through multiple seasons, and you're guaranteed to get a lot of wear out of it. I like to pair mine with sandalsand a crossbody bag whenever I'm on a roadtrip! Just add a classic white tank, and you're good to go!

Amazon

3 Piece Knit Lounge Set

This Amazon find is one of the best deals! It comes with a long, duster cardigan, a tank, and matching pants — all three for less than $40! Sometimes I'll even wear the duster with other outfits to optimize wear! Snag this deal for your upcoming road trip plans.

Amazon

Knit Pullover Set With Shorts

The balloon sleeves are the first thing that struck me with this chic outfit. It makes you look put together, but also fools everyone so they don't know you're actually wearing clothes that feel like pajamas. The ultimate win!

Amazon

Floral Ruffle Set

Who says you can't wear PJ's in the car? I definitely didn't. I'm an avid pajamas-in-public gal myself, but they have to be chic and cute like this pair here! The floral pattern is positively adorable, and I will be purchasing it immediately.

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All images via Amazon.

8 "Old-School" Manners That Have Almost Disappeared In 2025

Now that so many people have their heads buried in smartphones and other devices 24/7, countless timeless manners that once defined social decorum have seemingly slipped into oblivion.

The truth is there's a certain charm and respect that comes with old-school etiquette that's well worth reviving. So, here are some gestures and overall manners that should've never gone out of style in the first place.

Scroll to see all the old-school manners that have almost disappeared...

1. Getting Dressed Up

Marcus Queiroga Silva

In an age where super casual attire has become the norm, it's not uncommon to see people in pajamas at the grocery store or even attending doctor's appointments. While comfort is key, and athleisure is "in," there's still something special about dressing up for an occasion.

Whether you're just running errands, attending a casual gathering, or going out for a night on the town, taking the time to put together a thoughtful outfit shows you respect yourself, the people you're with, and whatever you're doing.

2. Addressing People With Titles

cottonbro studio

Addressing someone with a title like "sir," "ma'am," or "miss" wasn't just viewed as polite in the past. It also reflected a basic level of respect and acknowledgment of someone's status or age.

Using titles may seem old-fashioned in today's world, but it can still make a meaningful impact. While it's common for people to skip formalities and dive straight into conversation, taking a moment to use a respectful title is a small gesture that makes a great first impression.

3. Offering Seats To Women, Children, And Elderly

cottonbro studio

Did chivalry on public transport die? It used to be commonplace to offer up seats on buses, trains, and subways to women, children, and the elderly. Now, people are arguably so caught up with texting and social media that they might not notice (or care) to continue this act.

This tiny act of kindness doesn't take a lot of effort, but it speaks volumes about your character. If you see someone who might need your seat more, like a pregnant woman or an older man, offer your seat to show empathy and respect.

4. Being A Friendly Neighbor

Zen Chung

Being a friendly neighbor used to be a cornerstone of suburban life, but today, it's becoming increasingly rare for people to interact with those who live right next door.

Many people now come and go without much more than a polite wave or brief nod, and the days of chatting over the fence or borrowing a cup of sugar seem like a distant memory.

Nonetheless, taking the time to be a friendly, approachable neighbor can strengthen your sense of community. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, greet them when you pass by, and offer help when you can.

5. Saying "Please" And "Thank You"

Mizuno K

Nowadays, convenience seems to trump consideration, and it's easy to forget the power of simple politeness. Saying "please" and "thank you" probably seems like basic manners, and that's because it is. Yet, these magic words are still becoming rare to hear.

The next time someone holds the door for you or rings up your groceries at the supermarket, don't forget to thank them. Or, when you're asking a retail employee for help, say please. These small phrases go a long way in showing appreciation and respect.

6. Apologizing In Real Life

Kaboompics.com

Everybody makes mistakes, but what's your go-to way to rectify them? When you've upset a loved one, you might type out a quick text or leave them a voicemail. While that's common practice today, nothing can replace in-person apologies.

Texts simply lack depth and can feel impersonal. By getting in your car, driving to your friend or partner's house, and knocking on their front door to apologize, you're making it clear that you feel genuine remorse and value their feelings.

7. Sending "Thank You" Notes

Katya Wolf

On a similar note, sending a "thank you" text to a friend or relative after they attend an important life event, like your birthday party, graduation, baby shower, or wedding, just isn't the same as sending a handwritten thank you note. This thoughtful gesture is now a lost art.

Not only is it helpful for our mental health and relationships to actively express gratitude to those around us, but it benefits the receiver, too. Ditch your texts (or worse, the mass "thank you" group chat), and send a thank you note instead.

8. Being A Bit Modest

Polina Zimmerman

Finally, this one may be a bit controversial, but it's time to bring back a bit of modesty.

Since so much of our lives revolve around social media, what we wear and how we portray ourselves online has turned into a competition. And it has pushed many people, especially teens and young women, to opt for more revealing clothing.

This isn't meant to shame anyone or stifle self-expression. On the contrary, having some modesty is about showing respect for yourself and not allowing just anyone access to your body. Plus, longing and desire are some of the most powerful emotions, and leaving certain things up to others' imagination can add to the allure of who you are.

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10 Comfy Ballet Flats To Take From Summer And Step Into Fall

Soon enough it will be that time of year where you can't wear your summer wardrobe because it's too "summery," and you can't wear your fall wardrobe because it's not cold enough yet. It's that looming period between late August and September that's always the hardest for dressing. Plus, I detox my wardrobe so often that I feel like I have nothing left to wear towards the end of a season!

But one item carries me through the whole year when it comes to dressing for any season: the classic ballet flat. Coming out of summer when all I wore were sandals, it's definitely hard to go straight to boots for the fall and winter. So I always bring out my ballet flats to kickstart me into the fall season when it's too early to go full-fledged "pumpkin-spice-latte-scarves-and-boots" mode! Here's some of my favorite, comfy ballet flats — with a fun twist to them too!

Nordstrom

Sam Edelman Ari Ballet Flat

The metallic, silver shoe trend is not going anywhere this fall! To me, this has always been a very "fall" trend, so I was surprised when it blew up during summertime. That's perfect for us, because it will transition perfectly into your fall wardrobe! What's even crazier is that it's on sale for only $50! Run to grab this one immediately!

J.Crew

J.Crew Mesh Flats

I am obsessed with J.Crew for mid-season dressing, because I feel like they do a good job of styling for trends without them being too seasonal. Their pieces are a more classic, all-around approach which is really refreshing to see. So this pair of mesh flats is a great example of this, because it showcases the mesh flat in a timeless way that could be worn all-year round! Love this pair, and will definitely be purchasing them, myself!

Nordstrom

Sarto Tracy Slingback

Chunky flats are another statement item that aren't going anywhere! This trend will carry until the fall, for sure! I love the cut of these; they're kind of a slingback style! These flats will look so good styled with a mini skirt and chunky sweater this fall!

Nordstrom

Jeffrey Campbell Mesh Flat

I am loving the mesh flats, and I think they're the quintessential summer/fall shoe! It has the "naked shoe" aspect of summer, but is still perfectly covered for early fall. I couldn't think of a more perfect shoe for transitional dressing. Plus, this red color is such a good combination of both of the seasons! Grab these cute flats for only $57 on sale!

Sezane

Sezane Anya Flats

I love Sezane for their seasonal style, and think that their shoes, especially, are so versatile no matter what time of year it is! These flats will be your go-to all year round. You can pair them with a mini dress in the summer or with a long dress and coat for the fall! The options are really endless.

Rothy's

Rothy's Ballet Flat

Not only are these flats super stylish, but they're also crazy comfortable as well! Rothy's is known for being the one shoe you can wear for miles walking around in, and not feel a thing! These comfy shoes will be the easiest thrown-on shoe for this summer into fall season!

Nordstrom

Vince Cameo Vinley

Ummm, Bottega, who? These Bottega Veneta lookalikes are one of my favorites I've seen lately, in terms of funky flats! They're made of a woven, leather fabric that I'm obsessed with, because they will look good with so many different outfit options! I picture these being styled with an adorable mini collared-dress and a black top-handle bag! Très chic!

Nordstrom

Steve Madden Graya Flat

Chunky flats are going to be the biggest shoe trend this fall — I'm calling it now, folks! This style of shoe is by no means new, but I predict that it will definitely take off this summer-to-fall season! I love these styled with a simple, straight-leg jean, and white button down for a grunge-y, yet french-inspired look!

Nordstrom

Jeffrey Campbell Arabesque Flat

Did Chanel call? I think they're missing their shoes! These cap-toe flats are my favorite pair of shoes to wear no matter the season! Anytime I'm in a pinch and don't know what to wear, I throw on a dress and these cute flats, et voila! A super chic outfit that will look good in any time of year.

J.Crew

J.Crew Zoe Cap Toe Shoe

I had to throw in another cap toe option, because this J.Crew pair is perfect for the fall and winter. I love the coloring of these, because it goes with a colder-weather color palette. Navy always is a popular color for the winter, and I predict it will be just as popular this fall!

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Header image via Nordstrom

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Surprise, Mold May Be Growing In Your Face Wash — Here's How To Tell

So, you've stopped asking "does makeup expire" and have become a pro at spotting unhealthy particles churning in your foundation. We're proud of you, but this TikTok video suggests there's two more things you're likely overlooking: your face wash and the mold that could be growing in it *insert music from Psycho.* If anything should be considered icky, it's this.

Usually we like to make a funny joke, but we've been telling our trusted cleanser we're not pleased with its sneaky potential to betray us. It's a good thing cosmetic dermatologist Courtney Allen, FNP-C is here to ease our fears! She's the founder of Canvas Skin (recently named Nashville’s top skincare center) who has over 10 years of skincare experience so her advice is one we can rely on!

Learn about why mold develops and what you can do before it makes your skin go haywire

I'm clueless. What causes mold to grow in face wash?

Tiger Lily/Pexels

We can agree face wash is meant to tackle skincare concerns like acne, dark spots, and extreme oiliness, right? Great, because it means we're confused about how mold can destroy the thing designed to help our skin. Thankfully, Allen has the answer to our burning question!

She says, "Mold can develop in face wash due to exposure to moisture, improper storage, expired preservatives, or contamination from dirty hands or water." If this made you question how you're currently storing your face wash, you're not alone!

Concerning preservatives, she said "most skincare products have preservatives to prevent microbial growth," but they're going to eventually "degrade." The only way Allen feels this is preventably is for us to "check expiration dates and replace face wash every 6-12 months (or sooner if it lacks preservatives or is organic)."

Noted, but how can I tell what the mold will look like?

Cora Pursley/Dupe Photos

We've probably seen mold growing on old fruit or food we've left uncovered in the refrigerator, but does it look the same in face wash? Allen says, "Mold in face wash may appear as discoloration (black, green, or white spots), texture changes (clumping or separation), or an unusual smell (musty or sour)."

Now that we think about it, we've used face washes in the past that looked like it was separating or had an awful smell whenever we used it. It just never occurred to us that they could've had mold in them!

The bottom line, Allen says, is "any change in consistency or scent should be a red flag!"

How would moldy face wash affect my skin?

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Imagine you think you've hit the jackpot because you found face wash that was hidden behind other beauty products under your skin. Without checking the expiration date, you eagerly start using it only to experience confusion when you have an allergic reaction.

The reason your skin's unhappy is because "using a mold-contaminated face wash can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, rashes, fungal infections, or worsening of conditions like eczema, according to Allen. Why? It's all "due to exposure to harmful bacteria and fungi," she adds. Oh and if you have sensitive skin? She feels you're "especially at risk."

What should I do if I notice a problem with my face wash?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels

Stop, drop and roll! Just kidding — that's not the answer in this situation. Allen's advice is a little more than a suggestion, however. "Immediately stop using it, discard the product, and sanitize the area where it was stored," she advises. But this isn't the time to get to the internal root of the problem. "Avoid trying to 'scoop out' the mold, as contamination spreads deeper than what’s visible," she mentions.

If there's a chance you're experience irritation in the wake of finding mold in your face wash, Allen doesn't think your life will never be the same. Instead, she wants you to "wash the face with a gentle cleanser and apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer."

In other words, keep it simple post-exposure to mold!

Kaboompics.com/Pexels

To be on the safe side, you should always stop using beauty products if you notice they're irritating your skin. It could be that the ingredients are too harsh OR mold has secretly found its way inside your daily cleanser. But as long as you follow Allen's advice, you'll be okay!

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12 "Empowering" Books With Strong Female Leads To Read In 2025

This Women’s History Month, celebrate strong, complex, and unforgettable female characters who challenge the status quo. These books with strong female leads span centuries and continents, offering a powerful look at resilience, rebellion, and reinvention. Whether you’re in the mood for historical heroines seeking justice, fierce detectives uncovering dangerous secrets, or contemporary women navigating love, loss, and identity, these must-reads showcase the many ways women carve their own paths — no matter the obstacles in their way. So here are all the books with strong female leads we're excited about this year!

Scroll to see all the empowering new books you should read with strong female leads in 2025!

Amazon

The Queen’s Spade by Sarah Raughley

Nineteen-year-old Sarah Bonetta Forbes, once a princess of the Egbado Clan, wants revenge against the British Crown. Stolen from her homeland and turned into royal property, she vows to destroy those responsible, starting with her own godmother, Queen Victoria. To bring down the monarchy, Sally must navigate court politics, manipulate the Queen’s inner circle, and align with a dangerous London crime lord. She even exploits the affections of Prince Albert, using him as a pawn in her deadly game. But when Queen Victoria forces her into marriage, Sally faces an impossible choice. With her freedom slipping away and her heart on the line, she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for vengeance.

Amazon

An Intrigue of Witches by Esme Addison

History professor Sidney Taylor is stuck shuffling papers in DC after an inconvenient discovery stalls her career. When an anonymous invitation offers a million-dollar reward to find a missing artifact in Robbinsville, North Carolina, she can’t resist — especially with a chance to visit her grandmother. Following centuries-old clues, Sidney embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt, but soon realizes she’s entangled in a dangerous conspiracy. As secret societies, ancient bloodlines, and witches come into play, she uncovers a truth that shakes her to the core. What she finds isn’t just an artifact — it’s a revelation that threatens the very foundation of America itself.

Amazon

Kinda Koreanby Joan Sung

In this powerful coming-of-age memoir, Joan Sung reflects on her Korean American identity while learning to forgive her Tiger Mom. Raised in a home shaped by intergenerational trauma, Sung bravely breaks the silence that haunts her family. With honesty and courage, she shares her journey of growing up with a mother who struggled to understand American society. As she navigates the challenges of being both Korean and American, Sung exposes the microaggressions, fetishization, and racism she faced. She connects her personal experiences with the broader issues affecting Asian American communities, exploring how the COVID pandemic brought long-standing violence and discrimination to the forefront.

Amazon

Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine

Junie, a sixteen-year-old enslaved on Bellereine Plantation, has lived her life tending to the white master’s daughter, Violet, and grieving the death of her sister, Minnie. When guests arrive from New Orleans, bringing changes to Violet’s life, Junie’s world is turned upside down. In an act of desperation, Junie awakens Minnie’s ghost, and her sister remains tethered to the living world unless Junie can release her. With the help of Caleb, the coachman, Junie discovers hidden secrets about Bellereine. As the Civil War looms, she faces a life-altering choice about love, freedom, and the sacrifices she must make in the fight for her future.

Amazon

Fog and Fury by Rachel Howzell Hall (July 1, 2025)

After a decade with the LAPD, Sonny Rush moves to quiet Haven, California, to care for her mother and join her godfather’s PI business. Her first case finding a missing goldendoodle with a Versace collar seems harmless enough. But Figgy’s disappearance quickly leads to an unexpected reunion with her wealthy ex and a much darker mystery. When a teenage boy’s body is found on a popular trail, Sonny realizes Haven is not as idyllic as it seems. As she digs deeper, she uncovers secrets more twisted than anything she encountered in LA. A cryptic warning from a local makes one thing clear. In Haven, nothing is what it seems and finding the truth might cost Sonny everything.

Amazon

(S)Kin by Ibi Zoboi

Two teenagers connected through family secrets and ancient magic unite in Ibi Zoboi’s new novel. Fifteen-year-old Marisol is the daughter of a soucouyant, a fireball witch who must feed off the lives of others every new moon. She hoped their old traditions would be left behind when they emigrated from the islands, but her mother keeps her bound to her magical past. Brooklyn isn’t a place for witches, with its bright lights and locked doors. Seventeen-year-old Genevieve, struggling with a worsening skin condition, longs for answers about her estranged mother. When a new nanny arrives to care for her family’s twins, a hidden connection to Marisol is revealed. As the girls uncover secrets, they realize that their magic, hidden beneath their skin, may prove more destructive than they imagined.

Amazon

Cover Story by Celia Laskey (March 25, 2025)

Ali is a Hollywood publicist responsible for keeping gay celebrities in the closet, which is ironic since she is a lesbian herself. When she is assigned rising star Cara Bisset, whose breakout role is in a straight romantic blockbuster, managing Cara’s image becomes her toughest job yet. Cara is bold and unwilling to hide who she is, leading to a series of close calls. Ali is sent on a global press tour to keep her in line but instead finds herself drawn to Cara’s confidence. Still grieving the loss of her partner, Ali begins questioning the closeting system she has upheld. As Cara’s fame grows, they must decide whether to play it safe or risk everything for love.

Amazon

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

Margaret Ryan has the perfect life by 1960s standards—three children, a husband, and a home in a suburban neighborhood. But when she meets Charlotte Gustafson, the newest neighbor, Margaret is pulled into a life-changing journey. She starts a book club, inviting Charlotte and two other women, Bitsy and Viv, to read The Feminine Mystique. As the women bond over the book, they begin to realize that the American dream they were sold doesn’t fulfill their deeper desires. Together, they form a strong sisterhood and unknowingly set off a feminist revolution.

Amazon

Portrait of a Feminist by Marianna Marlowe

In Portrait of a Feminist, Peruvian American feminist Marianna Marlowe shares her journey from childhood in California, Peru, and Ecuador to adulthood as an academic, wife, and mother. Through braided memories, she explores the development of her feminist identity and the influence of patriarchy in her life. Marlowe examines the challenges of growing up in a family shaped by cultural and religious differences, confronting issues like misogyny, unequal marriages, and class structures. With insightful writing, she reflects on how feminism has shaped her and raises critical questions about its future evolution and relevance in today’s world.

Amazon

Isola by Allegra Goodman

Marguerite’s life of privilege is shattered when she is orphaned, and her guardian squanders her inheritance. Forced to accompany him on an expedition to New France, their journey takes a tragic turn. Marguerite is accused of betrayal, brutally punished, and abandoned on a remote island. Stripped of her former life and surrounded by harsh elements, she must rely on her inner strength and a newfound faith to survive. As the island is blanketed in ice, Marguerite’s fight for survival becomes a testament to resilience and defiance. Isola is a captivating historical epic inspired by the real-life struggles of a sixteenth-century heroine, Marguerite de La Rocque.

Amazon

The Widow’s Webby Susan Moore

When tech mogul Brad Jones is found drowned off the Marin coast, his death is ruled a suicide. But his wife, Dr. Anna Jones, a renowned cyber-psychologist, suspects foul play. Driven by grief and doubt, she begins to investigate Brad’s past, uncovering secrets that lead her into the world of Silicon Valley’s elite. As Anna digs deeper, she crosses paths with Scott and Kristy Lyle, powerful figures with high-level connections. The more Anna uncovers, the more she realizes Brad’s death is linked to a dark secret that powerful people will kill to protect. Caught between truth and danger, Anna must decide if she will risk everything to expose the deadly forces at play.

Amazon

Shooting Stars Above by Patricia Leavy

Tess Lee is a world-famous novelist whose books inspire people to believe in hope, yet she struggles to find own happiness. Jack Miller is a federal agent working in counterterrorism, scarred by years of violence and dedication to his job. When Tess and Jack meet, their connection is instant, but old wounds soon resurface. Jack struggles with the loss of a loved one, and Tess faces her painful childhood. As they struggle with their pasts, they must decide if unconditional love can heal their invisible scars and help them find light after years of darkness.

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