Books for Valentines / Galentines / Palentines day
Plus happy literary couples and picture books about friendship
Hi, readers!
I’m not sure if it’s approaching the one-year anniversary of the pandemic, an increasing work load, or something else entirely, but I feel like I’ve hit a wall this week. Part of it is that the weather has taken a turn. It’s been grey and in the single digits all weekend, which means no long walks, no visits with friends outdoors, not even a bit of blue sky to enjoy from the window. My mood has always been somewhat affected by the weather, but this year I’m noticing it more now than ever.
In addition to feeling tired, I’ve also really struggled to finish a book. I’m enjoying the books I’m reading, but I keep losing interest and choosing to pick up new ones. I always feel slightly off balance when I’m not truly immersed in a book. Hopefully this week I’ll be able to settle into a good book and a better outlook.
This week in books.
This week I read…
The Princess Trap by Talia Hibbert. I loved Hibbert’s Get a Life, Chloe Brown, so I snapped this one up when it was on sale in the Kindle store. It follows the sassy and determined Cherry Neita who ends up in a fake engagement with the Prince Ruben of Helgmore after an unfortunate encounter with some paparazzi. This book was fun, flirty, and super steamy. It wasn’t my favorite romance, but I love how Hibbert manages to bring in issues like public education and mental health in a really unforced and natural way. Amazon | Bookshop
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. We’ll be discussing this romantic classic on Novel Pairings over the course of two episodes in March. It was a delight to revisit and discuss it with Chelsey. I can’t wait for you to hear the episodes! Amazon | Bookshop
Now I’m reading…
Here for It by R. Eric Thomas. I’ve discovered that I really enjoy memoirs written in essays, and this hilarious and heartfelt collection is a really good one. Amazon | Bookshop
I’m still reading this new one from a favorite author and this epic work of nonfiction. I’m also halfway through this highly anticipated summer release, and I think it’s going to be a blockbuster.
Books to read for Valentines, Galentines, and Palentines weekend.
Whatever kind of love you’re celebrating this weekend, there’s a book out there for you. Here are a few of my favorite fictional depictions of love and friendship.
The Comeback by E.L. Shen. For a lovely depiction of middle school friendships that shows how people can fall apart and come together. Amazon | Bookshop
The Jane Austen Society by Natalie Jenner. To be amongst characters who love Jane Austen as much as you do. Amazon | Bookshop
Outlawed by Anna North. For a Western like no other with a band of gender-fluid outlaws. Amazon | Bookshop
Possession by A.S. Byatt. For an epic love story that’s also a love letter to literature. Amazon | Bookshop
Red, White, and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston. For a truly escapist romance with an entire cast of characters to root for. Amazon | Bookshop
There is Confusion by Jessie Redmon Fauset. For an under-the-radar classic that celebrates friendship, family, and Black love. Listen to our spoiler-free Novel Pairings episode about it here. Amazon | Bookshop
To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before by Jenny Han. For the sweetest YA romance that will make you feel young. Amazon | Bookshop
Links I love.
I am very excited to read Matthew Salesses’ book Craft, and this essay gives a tiny taste of its brilliance.
25 literary couples who are actually pretty happy.
New York Times book critics on what makes a great literary romance.
Here are 4 picture books about friendship for your littles.
Biossance, my favorite clean skincare brand, is having a great sale right now.
I’ve always been envious of D.C. residents who can take classes at Politics & Prose, and I can’t believe it’s taken me until now to sign up for one now that they’re virtual.
This article about pandemic burnout and collective grief captures what many of us are feeling in this moment.
End notes.
Watching: The To All the Boys movies on Netflix. I haven’t watched the third and final installment yet, but I’ve loved revisiting the first two!
Listening: You’re Wrong About is consistently one of my favorite podcasts and I’m excited about their new series of episodes about the moral panic that led to the creation parental advisory labels on music.
Making: We made one of our favorites, Anthony Bourdain’s New Mexico green chili stew, this week and it was just as delicious as ever.
Loving: My Lou & Grey joggers are truly the softest item of clothing I’ve every worn. I got them in a Stitch Fix and fell instantly in love.
Readers, I hope you’re enjoying some time (virtual or otherwise) with your loved ones this weekend. For questions, comments, or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out by emailing fictionmattersbooks@gmail.com or responding directly to this newsletter. I love hearing from you!
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Happy reading!
Sara
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