August: Reading With Rochelle Weinstein
Hello Readers & Friends,
August is in the books, and before we get to actual books, I’d like to welcome new readers and share the hows and whys of this column.
- I read a ton. My preference is women’s fiction, literary, thrillers, and some historical fiction and memoirs. I’m always reading a physical book and listening to an audiobook.
- Author support. Having made the transition from self-publishing to traditional publishing, I know how hard it is to break through. That’s why I’ll read authors from every level and any publishing model.
- I mix up the old and new. Columns feature ARCs from publishers, publicists, and authors (thank you for sharing) and older works, whether through recommendations or a book that’s been lazing on the shelf.. If at any time I can’t get to your book, I’ll try to feature it in a later column or in my newsletter and social media.
- Discoverability. The goal: if I can help any author with exposure in an over-crowded market, I do.
Now back to books. This month, you’ll see how these stories landed on my TBR–through connection, recommendations, and the love of reading. Isn’t that what it’s all about?
This fantastic novel about an inspirational book club sat on my TBR since May 12, 2024. Andrea Katz from Great Thoughts mentioned it, and I decided to dig in. Who knows why we sit on books? But this proves that books have the power to touch at any stage of their existence.
How To Read A Book, Monica Wood
Author Caplin reached out to me privately for a blurb for her novel about family and history. And hey, there’s my blurb onn the cover!
The Spoon and the Sea, Rachel Caplin
Boyne is an auto-buy for me. Period.
Fans of Boyne’s depth and emotionally charged writing will inhale this one.
The Elements, John Boyne
At the 2014 Miami Book Fair, I introduced panelists Lauren Oliver, Emma Straub, and Lydia Millet. I love following Lauren’s career and supporting her work. This time, a suspenseful tale of two mysteries set years apart.
What Happened to Lucy Vale, Lauren Oliver
I met Alison after October 7, 2023, and we bonded over releasing books (What You Do To Me & Maybe Once, Maybe Twice) during a war. This prompted our essay in On Being Jewish Now. Her debut is more than a rom-com. It’s a tender read on the messiness of life and how one woman prevails.
Bad Luck Bridesmaid, Alison Rose Greenberg
Honestly, I fell in love with this cover. The interior is just as enticing. Serritella captures every sense in this ambitious novel of inhibitions and desires.
Full Bloom, Francesca Serritella
David grew up in my hometown. His work as a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon is admirable and impressive, but it’s his compassionate heart that stands out. The book captures the courage, and defeat, of this remarkable profession and man.
Brain and Heart, David Sandberg
I love listening to thrillers. It’s a thing. I listen at 2.0 and let the magic happen. Lapena had me guessing when a wife and mother disappear and everyone is a suspect.
She Didn’t See It Coming, Shari Lapena
This cover got me, too. Plus, I loved Berman’s last book Before We Were Innocent. Her latest features two friends and writers in 1960s Los Angeles and what happens when one writes a book based on the other’s life.
L.A. Women, Ella Berman
I was lucky enough to get an advance copy of Confino’s latest. While I read this one in March, it’s thrilling to see the book soar all these months’ later. Confino charms with her signature wit as a mother-and daughter-in-law manage grief and moving on.
Good Grief, Sara Goodman Confino
How do you get your book recommendations? Who’s the trusted source?
Happy Reading. Don’t forget to write reviews and share with your friends.
Rochelle
Rochelle B. Weinstein is the USA Today bestselling author of multiple contemporary fiction novels, most recently We Are Made of Stars. Her work has been featured in People, Deadline, Entertainment Weekly, Country Living, Woman’s Day, Woman’s World, First for Women, Kveller, Totally Booked with Zibby, Book Bub, and more. Rochelle is the book columnist for AQUA Magazine and a frequent speaker and workshop instructor. A former entertainment industry executive and NBC-6 Miami book correspondent, Rochelle splits her time between South Florida and the mountains of North Carolina. Visit her at www.rochelleweinstein.com and subscribe to her newsletter.
Category: Contemporary Women Writers, On Writing
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