Spring Reading Picks for Book Lovers Everywhere
There are lots of great books out this spring, including several standout releases from local Lowcountry authors. Let’s jump right to my recommendations that I think deserve a spot on your spring reading list!
BOOKS
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Where the Rivers Merge by Mary Alice Monroe
May 19 the book is out in paperback! If you haven’t read, here’s a fun tidbit: this edition includes a sneak peek of Book 2 of the duology: The Rivers End.
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Summer State of Mind by Kristy Woodson Harvey
The search for a simpler life turns Daisy’s life upside down when she encounters an abandoned infant. This one’s an “emotional rollercoaster”!
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Trouble’s Turn to Lose: A Carolina Tale by Susan Boyer
I love Susan’s wit in her new series. Private Investigator Hadley Cooper has a knack for finding trouble-and this time, it’s wearing pearls.
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The Patriot’s Daughter by Brittany Butler
This is an exciting new geopolitical spy thriller from former CIA officer and local writer Brittany Butler. It has espionage, cyber warfare, political instability, and emotional family drama.
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Shadow Strike by Brad Taylor
Another local author we’re proud of with a longtime career in the Special Forces. He’s known for military and political thrillers, and this is the latest in a series featuring his hero Pike Logan as he goes head-to-head with an old enemy—and renowned assassin.
AUDIO
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The Calamity Club by Kathyrn Stockett
I’m interviewing Kathryn Stockett about her fabulous new novel—her first release since The Help years ago. I must say it was worth the wait! I truly loved this book and I know you will too. I listened to the audiobook, and the voices bring this story to life. Even at 600-plus pages, the immersive audiobook makes the hours disappear.
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Astral Library by Kate Quinn
I recommended Kate Quinn’s book last season, and now I’m recommending the audiobook. It’s a fantastical story that asks the question: Have you ever wished you could live inside a book? You’lll love listening to this fast-paced story as you walk, drive, or even stir the spaghetti sauce!
FILM
I am adding this category to my seasonal reading recommendations. There are so many wonderful film/series adaptations now from books, I thought I’d share my favorites.
This season there is only one— Remarkably Bright Creatures.
If you’ve already read the book by Shelby Van Pelt, this Netflix movie is a bonus experience, and actress Sally Fields makes the film sparkle. Marcellus the octopus remains the heart of the book, but in film, one only has 90 minutes. This adaptation does a great job telling the complex story and still making you love Marcellus. And, if you haven’t read the novel, then you MUST read the book! Marcellus’ story is so much more and you don’t want to miss it! Wonderful movie. Fantastic book.
A Final Note: If you’re on Goodreads, add these titles to your “Want to Read” shelf. And if you enjoy a book, please consider leaving a review — your feedback truly helps support authors and their books.
Happy reading, listening, and watching!
Mary Alice