READING WITH ROCHELLE WEINSTEIN: DECEMBER

December 27, 2022 | By Women Writers Women Books | Reply More

Hello Readers & Friends,

I hope you’re enjoying the holidays with loved ones and a good book! As we head into 2023, here are some recent reads to add to your TBR.

The Vibrant Years, Sonali Dev, eBook

This was one of my featured NBC 6 Picks for December. Three fiery women—all at different stages of life—tackling relationships, difficult bosses, and a pesky HOA.

What to expect: Dev, who writes Bollywood-style love stories, captures the depth and wit of Jennifer Weiner’s In Her Shoes. Fabulous tale of women learning to live on their own terms.

The Guncle, Steven Rowley, Audible (narrated by the author)

A gay sitcom star is left in charge of his niece and nephew for the summer when a tragedy bestows the family. Fun fact. I just met Mr. Rowley at Miami Book Fair, and listening to him narrate, I felt like we spent the entire summer together.

What to expect: Hilarious and heartwarming. So many gems. Extra bonus for listening on Audible.

All My Rage, Sabaa Tahir, Audible

Stealing from the New York Times Book Review, because I can’t say it much better. “A love story, a tragedy, and an infectious teenage fever dream about what home means when you feel you don’t fit in.”

What to expect: This book was a WOW for me. YA, but like Wonder by R. J. Palacio, the message is universal. Gorgeous story of broken dreams and star-crossed love.

No More Secrets, Kerry Lonsdale, Net Galley eBook

The third installment in the No More series follows Lucas Carlson as he seeks redemption and forgiveness. Along the way, he finds comfort and connection with homeless fifteen-year-old Shiloh Bloom.

What to expect: Lonsdale wraps up the trilogy in a tight, perfect bow. I was particularly drawn to the dynamic between Lucas and Shiloh. Suspenseful page-turner with sexy, multi-layered characters, and a satisfying conclusion that bonds the siblings.

Available March 14, 2023

Stone Cold Fox, Rachel Koller Croft, Net Galley eBook

After a lifetime of being conned by her mother, Bea sets her eyes on the biggest prize of all: marrying the heir to one of the country’s wealthiest families.

What to expect: This is an addictive debut that will have you flipping pages FAST. Bea is a protag you’ll love to hate, and if you’re reading this Rachel Koller Croft, we need a sequel!

Available February 14, 2023

A Heart That Works, Rob Delaney, Audible

Actor (Catastrophe), comedian, and writer Delaney shares the deeply personal and heartbreaking story of losing his two-year-old son to brain cancer.

What to expect: Delaney’s journey is intimate and harrowing, but he manages to find light in the darkness with grace and a touch of humor.

All The Broken Places, John Boyne, Audible

Ninety-one-year-old Gretel has kept the secrets of her past and her ties to Nazi Germany well-hidden. But when a young family moves in her building and she witnesses violent, abusive behavior, this time she can’t remain complicit.

What to expect: The book is a sequel to the Boy In The Striped Pajamas. Gretel charms with her feisty personality. John Boyne tackling life at a crossroads with emotional depth and courage.

Hum If You Don’t Know The Words, Bianca Marais, Audible

A nine-year-old orphaned white girl and a middle-aged black woman searching for her missing daughter are thrown together after a terrible tragedy in Apartheid-era South Africa. Thank you to The Good Book Fairy for recommending this powerful book.

What to expect: A mother and a child, joined in need, not blood, form an inextricable bond. A compelling tale of racial tensions, and the moving lessons of love and loss.

Wishing you and yours a beautiful, happy, and healthy New Year!

Rochelle

Rochelle B. Weinstein is the USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of six women’s fiction novels. Rochelle spent her early years, always with a book in hand, raised by the likes of Sidney Sheldon and Judy Blume. A former entertainment industry executive, she splits her time between sunny South Florida and the mountains of North Carolina. When she’s not writing, Rochelle can be found on NBC 6 in the Mix sharing book recommendations, teaching workshops at Nova Southeastern University, hiking, reading, and finding the world’s best nachos. Her seventh novel, What You Do Me, releases October 2023. Please visit her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or subscribe to her newsletter at www.rochelleweinstein.com.