Hi friends!
A new month always brings new energy — new intentions, new routines, and (if you’re anything like me) a new stack of books you’re hoping to dive into. Today I’m sharing five new book recommendations I think you’re going to love. Whether you’re a thriller girlie, a fan of emotional character-driven stories, or you’re just here for some good book-to-TV adaptation inspo, this post is for you.
I also filmed a video walking through each of these books, so if you’re more of a visual person or just want to hear me talk through my thoughts in real-time, scroll down to watch it here:
(If you’re new here — hi! I’m Flor. I talk about books, productivity, motivation, and building a creative life that actually feels good. I post every Wednesday over on YouTube and share book recs, behind-the-scenes, and more on Instagram.)
Okay, now let’s get into this month’s five book recs…
1. Anatomy of a Scandal by Sarah Vaughan
This one has it all — courtroom drama, elite political circles, moral tension, and deep character exploration. The story revolves around Sophie and James, a high-profile married couple whose world starts to crumble when James is accused of sexual misconduct. We also follow Kate, a barrister (UK version of a prosecutor), who is assigned to the case.
What I liked: It’s layered. We explore how the characters’ pasts — especially during their time at Oxford — influence their present. It feels timely and thought-provoking.
What I didn’t love: I found it a bit predictable by the midpoint, so I wouldn’t call it a five-star read. BUT it’s still worth reading, especially because it’s being adapted for TV soon (and we love a good book-to-screen moment).
2. Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
After falling in love with The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, I had high hopes for this one — and it didn’t disappoint. This novel tells the story of a 1970s rock band, from their rise to their dramatic breakup. But here’s the twist: it’s told entirely through interviews with the band members.
It feels like reading a really juicy documentary transcript — everyone remembers things differently, and the story builds through those contradictions. It’s also very atmospheric. If you love classic rock, tour chaos, or the 70s vibe, you’ll probably devour this one.
Bonus: It’s also becoming a TV show and the casting looks so good.
3. The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides
This book was everywhere on Instagram, and for good reason. It’s a psychological thriller that completely lives up to the hype.
The story follows Alicia, a famous painter who kills her husband one night and then never speaks again. She ends up in a mental institution, where a therapist becomes obsessed with understanding her silence.
I couldn’t put this down. The plot twist at the end? Absolutely wild. I didn’t see it coming at all, and honestly, it made the entire read worth it. It’s one of my favorite reads of the year so far. If you’re into suspense and clever twists, read this ASAP.
4. Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
Okay… this one was a bit of a letdown for me. The premise is great: a couple finds something mysterious while scuba diving on their honeymoon in Bora Bora. We also know from the first chapter that the husband ends up dead. Sounds amazing, right?
But here’s the thing: the pacing felt off. The “something” in the water doesn’t show up until halfway through the book, and some parts felt overly detailed in a way that pulled me out of the story (hello random Wikipedia-style gun descriptions?).
That said, I’ve heard great things about the audiobook version — the author is an actress and she narrates it herself, which gives it a more immersive feel. So maybe give the audio a try if you’re curious.
5. The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
I love a good “reunion with secrets” storyline, and this book delivered. Four women who went to boarding school together reconnect years later when one of them sends a cryptic message: “I need you.”
The story unfolds slowly, revealing bits of their past and the events that pulled them apart. It’s told from one of the women’s perspectives, which adds an extra layer of mystery since you can’t be totally sure you can trust her version of things.
I thought it was suspenseful, emotional, and really well-paced. If you’re into stories that bounce between past and present, especially with a “what really happened back then?” vibe, you’ll probably love this one.
Let’s Chat!
Have you read any of these books? Do you agree with my thoughts? Or did you love one I didn’t click with? I’d love to know what you’re reading right now — I’m always looking to add more books to my (never-ending) TBR.
You can also follow me on Instagram where I share mini book reviews, reading goals, and general behind-the-scenes of my creative life. And if you’re on Goodreads, I’m Flor Pereira over there too — let’s be book friends!
Thanks so much for reading (and watching!), and I’ll see you next week with a brand new video.
Big hugs,
Flor.
Find me on: Instagram
