There’s just something about a juicy book that makes it the best kind of pick for the book club.
Maybe it’s the messy family drama that gets everyone talking, the twisty, suspenseful thriller with secrets nobody saw coming, or the romance that leaves half the group swooning and the other half rolling their eyes.
The point is, these are the kinds of stories that keep the conversation going long after the last page. Here are ten books that bring drama, emotion, and plenty to chat about at your next meeting.
'The Housemaid' by Freida McFadden
This 2022 psychological thriller follows a woman who takes a job with a wealthy family and quickly finds herself caught in lies and manipulation. It’s sharp, suspenseful, and full of twists — perfect for a group that loves shock value.
'It Ends With Us' by Colleen Hoover
One of Hoover’s most emotional novels, this 2016 hit follows Lily, who falls for a charming doctor only to discover he’s not what he seems. When a childhood friend reappears, she has to choose between safe love and repeating old heartbreak.
'Bad Summer People' by Emma Rosenblum
Set in an upscale beach town, this one is all scandal, gossip, and even murder. If your group thrives on messy characters and juicy secrets, this 2023 novel is basically the book version of a binge-worthy summer show.
'A Court of Thorns and Roses' by Sarah J. Maas
Fantasy lovers will eat this up. The first book in the series, published in 2015, has danger, romance, and plenty of heat.
'The Midnight Library' by Matt Haig
A quieter and more reflective option, this book published in 2020 explores second chances, regrets, and all the different paths life could take. Great for sparking deeper conversations about choices and meaning.
'People Watching' by Hannah Bonam-Young
A small-town romance that blends warmth, humor, and just enough spice to keep you coming back for more. This recently published novel is cozy but layered, the kind of story that feels like a hug but still gives you something to unpack.
'The Rules of Fortune' by Danielle Prescod
Money, legacy, and family tension all collide here. This book, published earlier this year, is reminiscent of a soap opera with an intriguing edge, which gives room for lots of material for lively club debates.
'Broken Country' by Clare Leslie Hall
This one leans a bit slower and heavier, digging into rural family conflicts and long-kept secrets. Emotional and raw, it’s a great choice for readers who like to analyze character dynamics and delve deep into introspection around plots.
'The Summer I Turned Pretty' by Jenny Han
Lighthearted and nostalgic, with plenty of love triangle drama. Sometimes the best club pick is an easy, breezy read that reminds everyone of summers past. This 2009 book does just that.
'Project Hail Mary' by Andy Weir
A sci-fi adventure, published in 2021, that balances high-stakes survival with surprising emotional beats. Even if your group usually avoids the genre, it’s full of “wow” moments that make for great discussion.
No matter what your club gravitates toward, whether that’s thrillers, romance, or thought-provoking fiction, each of these books has that irresistible, juicy factor that will have you on the edge of your seat.
They’re fun, addictive, and guaranteed to keep the conversation flowing.
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