What We're Reading This September

Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry

Emily Henry does it again! I saved the Reese’s Book Club pick for my literal beach read and it did not disappoint. Watching the waves while listening to Henry’s sparkling rom-com (complete with a fabulous twist of drama) was the perfect way to kick off summer. For Henry’s best book yet, I recommend tropical pairings—a painkiller cocktail and fish tacos, both reminiscent of the island where Alice and Hayden’s story unfolds.

Classic Painkiller Cooktail

Walking Fish Tacos with Crunchy Cabbage Slaw and Cilantro Dressing by Molly Yeh

The Listeners by Maggie Stiefvater

As war erupts, Axis diplomats in the U.S. are quietly relocated — under FBI watch — to a luxury Appalachian spa. The hotel manager navigates tensions as she and her staff care for their enigmatic "guests." Secrets unravel, loyalties shift, and the hotel’s healing waters reveal a touch of magical realism.

The Listeners is a beguiling novel perfect for fans of atmospheric historical fiction and strong female leads. Reflecting the novel's genteel Southern hospitality, I've selected Lavender Earl Grey Cookies with Lemon Glaze paired along with a playlist of smoky jazz vocalists.

Lavender Earl Grey Cookies with Lemon Glaze by Rachel Kochlin 

Smoky Jazz Vocals - Spotify Playlist

The Last One at the Wedding  by Jason Rekulak

I wanted a book that took place in New England for vacation inspiration, and this book hit the mark. The unique characters sucked me right in! 

This time of year seems like the IDEAL time to invite some friends over for some yummy crab cakes on a crisp evening. Maybe next to a crackling fire? 

My driving vacation through New England was super enjoyable. We found some great off-the-beaten path spots thanks to Lonely Planet. Their books are always my go-to's for any road trip. 

Crab Cakes by Natasha Kravchuk

Lonely Planet Best Road Trips New England

by Ray Bartlett, Isabel Albiston, Amy C Balfour, and more

Matriarch: A Memoir 
by Tina Knowles

When there is a generational talent like Beyonce, we rarely get to hear the origin story of the woman who raised her. Tina Knowles' story is a beautiful recollection of life growing up in Galveston, TX, leading up to how she is navigating her incredible life and finding herself again as a now 70+ year old matriarch of her family.

In this read, she carries readers through the ups and downs of her life from love, loss, triumph, scrutiny and so much more. She weaves themes of culture, art and inspiration while overcoming womanhood at every phase from daughter, to mother, to sister, friend and wife.

I encourage any woman to read this empowering title, pairing it with the warmth of Creole cajun gumbo and freshly squeezed peach lemonade, a nod to her roots and her eldest daughter's groundbreaking career.

Authentic Cajun Gumbo by Quin Liburd

Peach Lemonade by Emily Teel

Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery  by Brom

I chose Slewfoot because it embodies everything I love about fall reading: folklore dripping with atmosphere, a heroine who claws her way through oppression, and themes of witchcraft and nature’s raw power.

These pairings heighten the experience, wrapping the novel in flavors as rich and haunting as its story. The hard cider and rum cocktail is rooted in the common libations of 17th-century New England. This drink blends forest flavors, earthiness, and a sharp kick of liquor—capturing both the raw survival spirit and vengeful fire of Abitha.

Alongside it, Abitha’s honeycomb brittle, inspired by her relationship with her bees, adds a sweet (yet rustic) note. The honeycomb candy ties directly to her connection with nature, the colonial setting, and the fragile sweetness that contrasts the darkness of this book. All of it comes together to set the perfect atmosphere for a hauntingly cozy fall night in.

Spiced Rum Apple Cider Cocktail by Veronika Sykorova 

Honeycomb Brittle by Martha Stewart