Read This Book: Books to Escape from Reality

READ THIS BOOK

Books to Escape from Reality

Recommendations from Madison Blair

@bookswithmeblair Bookstagrammer As an English major at Birmingham-Southern College, I spend a lot of my time reading the classics and writing papers, so when I read for pleasure, I read to escape. I love that this allows you to explore new places while teaching empathy for others. This past year, the desire to escape has been stronger than ever. I started reading faster than I ever had, and I even started an Instagram account dedicated to sharing my love of reading. Here are some of my favorite reads from this past year!

The Wife Upstairs

by Rachel Hawkins

This Birmingham-based thriller explores the unsolved murder of Thornfield Estates’ resident, Bea, and the mysterious past of new-to-Birmingham Jane. With a twist ending you won’t see coming, The Wife Upstairs is a relatively quick read that will leave you questioning who to trust. Fans of Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre will appreciate this Southern Gothic take on a beloved classic.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Lovers of glitz and glam will devour this book about a Hollywood starlet from the ‘60s and her scandalizing life. Reid’s unique, interview-styled writing makes this book easy to read, and the writing is absolutely beautiful.

Evelyn Hugo is the morally gray, anti-protagonist we all hate to love, and her life story will leave you in tears. It’s perfect for fans of historical romance looking for something different!

Happy & You Know It

by Laura Hankin

Hankin’s incredibly witty debut novel follows a group of wealthy Upper East Side mothers and the young musician who is hired to sing to their play group. This page-turner has twists and turns for fans of mysteries, and heartfelt moments for contemporary lovers. Happy & You Know It celebrates the bond formed between an unlikely group of women, while also commenting on the way society passes judgement on motherhood.

Beach Read

by Emily Henry

Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes blockbuster romances.

When both authors find themselves living next door to each other for the summer and in creative ruts, they decide to switch genres and give each other lessons in their respective fields. This is the perfect book for those looking to get away and fans of enemies-to-lovers romances. Book lovers of all ages will adore the banter between January and Gus!

The Invisible Life of Addie Larue

by V.E. Schwab

Victoria Schwab is without a doubt the queen of fantasy, and she has done it again in her most recent release!

This book follows a woman who sold her soul in a moment of weakness, and in return, she is cursed to be forgotten by everyone she crosses paths with. Following Addie’s life over 300 years, the story of a woman no one remembers is a story you will never forget.