Can't decide what to read? Reese Witherspoon [1]'s book club, Hello Sunshine [2], might just have you covered. Witherspoon's list of selections includes everything from murder mysteries to heartbreaking memoirs and beautifully cheesy romance novels, so no matter your preferences, you're likely to find something to love among them.
Witherspoon launched her book club in June 2017, kicking things off with "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman. Since then, she's used her production company — also named Hello Sunshine [3] — to turn many of these books into onscreen sensations. From "Daisy Jones & The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid [4] to "The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave [5], more than a few of Witherspoon's book-club picks have resulted in megahit movies and TV shows.
Of course, the books hold up on their own. Whenever you're just looking to shut off your screen and curl up with some tea and a good read, Witherspoon's list of book-club picks is a perfect place to start. And if you've got a case of reader's block and don't know where to begin, take a look at all of the star's past selections ahead — you just might stumble across a new favorite.
— Additional reporting by Eden Arielle Gordon [6]
June 2017 — "Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman
"Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman [8] ($15)
- What it's about: The story follows the strict day-to-day routine of an office worker named Eleanor who grapples with severe depression and her painful childhood memories, but everything changes when she meets Raymond.
- What Witherspoon says: It's "beautifully written and incredibly funny — 'Eleanor Oliphant' is about the importance of friendship and human connection."
July 2017 — "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
"The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn [9] ($10)
- What it's about: The novel, set in 1947, follows a female spy recruited to the real-life Alice Network in France during World War I. When she meets an unconventional American socialite searching for her cousin, the pair find courage and redemption.
- What Witherspoon says: "This exciting and fast-paced story is an amazing tale of courage and redemption."
August 2017 — "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
"The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware [10] ($24)
- What it's about: The novel focuses on the story of four women, now in their thirties, who are bound together by a grave mistake they made during their time together in boarding school. Seventeen years later, one of their darkest secrets washes up on the beach and everything comes to light.
- What Witherspoon says: "Four friends from high school, bound together by a dark secret, get pulled together with one cryptic text."
September 2017 — "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng
"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng [11] ($10)
- What it's about: The novel follows the story of two families, one wealthy and one barely scraping by, who come together in Shaker Heights, Ohio, a town that thrives on structure and rules. When one mistake threatens that structure, a domino effect ensues.
- What Witherspoon says: "Celeste Ng writes with stunning accuracy about the power of motherhood, the intensity of teenage love, and the danger of perfection."
October 2017 — "The Rules of Magic" by Alice Hoffman
"The Rules of Magic" by Alice Hoffman [12] ($14)
- What it's about: A prequel to Hoffman's Practical Magic series, this coming-of-age tale follows the lives of the gray-eyed Owens children, bloodline witches who use their magical powers to face every obstacle life throws their way.
- What Witherspoon says: "This story is full of magic, love, family, heartbreak and redemption."
November 2017 — "This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
"This Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett [13] ($14)
- What it's about: In a collection of essays about family, friends, dogs, books, and her husband, Patchett paints a picture of her life that feels like reading a story told by an old friend.
- What Witherspoon says: "Reading this book is like talking to one of your best friends."
December 2017 — "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
"The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine [14] ($18)
- What it's about: Amber Patterson is tired of blending into the background of her own life. When she meets Daphne Parrish, a philanthropist and socialite, Amber sees the opportunity to obtain the life she's always dreamed of, and she does everything she can to ensure that she gets what she wants.
- What Witherspoon says: "A fun and fast-paced psychological thriller about two determined women who play a high stakes game of deception that only one can win."
January 2018 — "Braving the Wilderness: The Quest For True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone" by Brené Brown
"Braving the Wilderness: The Quest For True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone" by Brené Brown [15] ($15)
- What it's about: Written by social scientist Brené Brown, the novel starts a conversation about the importance of experiences of courage, vulnerability, love, belonging, shame, and empathy in becoming who we truly are.
- What Witherspoon says: "Brené Brown speaks of how divided our world is politically, socially, racially, and how we can bridge that divide. I learned so much about communication from this book."
February 2018 — "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
"The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo [16] ($11)
- What it's about: Lucy and Gabe met at Columbia University, but when Gabe's photojournalism career takes him to the Middle East, what follows is a 13-year journey of jealousy, betrayal, and love that proves even being on different continents can't keep them out of each other's hearts.
- What Witherspoon says: "This book is all about different kinds of love, spanning decades and continents as two star-crossed lovers try to return to each other."
March 2018 — "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
"Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal [17] ($13)
- What it's about: When her father's unexpected death leaves her family in a financial bind, Nikki, a law school dropout, takes on a job as a creative writing instructor in the heart of London's close-knit Punjabi community. When one of the widows finds a book of sexy stories in English, Nikki sees an opportunity to help the outwardly modest women unleash their creativity.
- What Witherspoon says: "This book has something for everyone! It's a mystery, a romance, a family drama . . . and yes, it's spicy!"
April 2018 — "Happiness: A Memoir: The Crooked Little Road to Semi-Ever After" by Heather Harpham
"Happiness: A Memoir: The Crooked Little Road to Semi-Ever After" by Heather Harpham [18] ($14)
- What it's about: Humorous and heartbreaking, the novel follows the story of Heather and Brian, two complete opposites whose newborn baby Gracie is perilously ill. Together, Brian and Heather must decide what they're willing to sacrifice to ensure Gracie makes it to adulthood.
- What Witherspoon says: "This beautiful memoir will have you up all night, reading to find out what happens next. There's heartbreak, joy, and lots of love. Trust me: Have your tissues ready."
May 2018 — "You Think It, I'll Say It: Stories" by Curtis Sittenfeld
"You Think It, I'll Say It: Stories" by Curtis Sittenfeld [19] ($7)
- What it's about: The novel follows the story of three women who live very different lives: a suburban mom caught in a lie, a high-powered lawyer, and an Ivy League student. In 10 short stories, the novel upends assumptions about class, relationships, and gender roles in a nation that feels irreversibly divided.
- What Witherspoon says: "The characters in these stories are so complex and interesting."
June 2018 — "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
"Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman [20] ($28)
- What it's about: When newlyweds Erin and Mark take a trip to Bora Bora for their honeymoon, everything is perfect . . . until they go scuba diving and discover a nightmare in the water. Together, they must decide whether to speak out or to protect their dark secret.
- What Witherspoon says: "A psychological thriller that captivated me from page one."
July 2018 — "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
"Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton [21] ($9)
- What it's about: After the death of of her grandmother Elisa, the former daughter of a sugar baron in Havana, Marisol Ferrera travels from Miami to Cuba to scatter her late grandmother's ashes. When she arrives, Marisol comes face-to-face with the contrast of Cuba's beauty and perilous political climate and must use clues from her grandmother's past to uncover her own sense of courage.
- What Witherspoon says: "A beautiful novel full of passion, secrets, courage, and sacrifice."
August 2018 — "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
"Still Lives" by Maria Hummel [22] ($14)
- What it's about: Kim Lord is an eccentric up-and-coming artist with a groundbreaking new exhibition of self-portraits depicting herself as famous, murdered women. When Kim fails to show up to her own gala on opening night, rumors spread and an investigation ensues.
- What Witherspoon says: "The ultimate mystery, full of crazy twists and turns!"
September 2018 — "Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens
"Where the Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens [23] ($15)
- What it's about: For years, rumors of the "Marsh Girl" have haunted Barkley Cove, a quiet town on the North Carolina coast. So in late 1969, when a local named Chase Andrews is found dead, the town immediately suspects Kya Clark, the so-called Marsh Girl.
- What Witherspoon says: "Romance, mystery, murder, and it all takes place in the breathtaking backdrop of the South."
October 2018 — "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
"This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel [24] ($12)
- What it's about: Claude is five years old and the youngest of five brothers; he loves peanut butter sandwiches and wearing dresses. When he grows up, he wants to be a girl. His parents, Rosie and Penn, want Claude to be whoever he wants to be, but they aren't ready to share that with the rest of the world, so they keep Claude's identity a secret . . . until one day keeping that secret is no longer an option.
- What Witherspoon says: "Every once in a while, I read a book that opens my eyes in a way I never expected."
November 2018 — "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
"The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones [25] ($9)
- What it's about: When Pammie's son Adam falls in love with a woman named Emily, they all find out just how far Pammie is willing to go to get what she wants: Emily gone forever.
- What Witherspoon says: "My November book pick has one of the most twisted and entertaining plots!"
December 2018 — "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
"One Day in December" by Josie Silver [26] ($9)
- What it's about: When Laurie spots her dream man on the street just as her bus is driving away, she spends a year trying to find him. Finally, Laurie meets Jack, her missing stranger, at a Christmas party when Laurie's best friend Sarah introduces him as her boyfriend. What follows is 10 years of missed opportunities, roads not taken, friendship, and heartbreak.
- What Witherspoon says: "If you like rom coms, you will love my December book pick. It absolutely charmed me!"
January 2019 — "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
"The Library Book" by Susan Orlean [27] ($10)
- What it's about: The novels follows the mesmerizing investigation into a fire that destroyed thousands of books at the Los Angeles Public Library in 1986. Was the library set ablaze on purpose, and if so, by who?
- What Witherspoon says: "This book is like a love letter to libraries, and made me nostalgic for the long hours I used to spend there when I was a kid. It's a captivating story and I can't wait for y'all to read it with me!"
February 2019 — "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
"The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory [28] ($22)
- What it's about: Freelance writer Nikole Paterson isn't expecting it when her boyfriend of five months proposes to her at a Dodgers game in front of 45,000 people — he didn't even spell her name right. Luckily, a fellow crowd goer named Carlos Ibarra comes to her rescue. What follows is a series of hookups that quickly develop into something more.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's not exactly love and baseball for Nikole, and as she's chased out of the stadium by live camera crews, she's saved by a couple . . . of siblings . . . find out what happens next!"
March 2019 — "Daisy Jones & The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid
"Daisy Jones & The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid [29] ($21)
- What it's about: The novel follows the meteoric rise of a rock band in the '70s, as well as the ups and downs of the lead singers, Daisy Jones and Billy Dunne.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's sex, drugs and rock 'n roll, people!! . . . And the very best part?! Hello Sunshine is turning this into a TV show with Amazon Studios . . . so stay tuned for more updates!"
April 2019 — "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
"The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo [30] ($13)
- What it's about: Ji Lin works as an apprentice dressmaker and moonlights as a dance hall girl to help pay off her mother's Mahjong debts. When one of her dance partners accidentally leaves behind a grim souvenir, Ji Lin falls head-first into a mirror world of secrets and superstitions.
- What Witherspoon says: "You won't be able to put this down! . . . Set in a tiny Malaysian town in the 1930s, the story is about a mystifying tiger who haunts the villages, followed by a series of mysterious deaths. The two main characters will captivate you as their paths are destined to cross."
May 2019 — "From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home" by Tembi Locke
"From Scratch: A Memoir of Love, Sicily, and Finding Home" by Tembi Locke [31] ($10)
- What it's about: Saro is in love with an American woman, a black American woman, and his Sicilian parents don't approve. Despite his family's prejudices, Saro and Tembi build a happy life in Los Angeles and even adopt a baby girl. But it's not until Saro is fighting a battle with cancer that his family accepts Tembi and welcomes her into their home.
- What Witherspoon says: "This beautiful memoir takes us on Tembi's personal journey of love, parenthood, and ultimately the loss of her husband, Saro. She learns to heal in the most beautiful way — through the support of three generations of women — and yes, there's Italian food. Lots and lots of Italian food!"
June 2019 — "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
"The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood [32] ($11)
- What it's about: Susan Green has no room for disorder in her life, but when her mother dies and she finds out she's going to be a mother herself, she's forced to accept an unfortunate truth: she's losing control.
- What Witherspoon says: "]I found myself laughing out loud at Susan's prickly character as she finds herself in a love triangle, navigating family ties and dealing with 9 months of pregnancy at the age of 45. Hope y'all love Susan as much as I do!"
July 2019 — "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
"Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker [33] ($5)
- What it's about: The novel looks in on the lives of four women who take a stand when they find out their boss, Ames, is making inappropriate advances towards a female colleague. Their decision to speak up about Ames's behavior sets in motion a catastrophic series of events in the office where secrets are uncovered and not everyone can survive.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's honest, timely, and completely thrilling — I was so surprised to find out who the murderer was!"
August 2019 — "The House Guest" by Megan Miranda
"The House Guest" by Megan Miranda [34] ($10)
- What it's about: When young Sadie Loman visits the wealthy seaside town of Littleport, ME, she develops a fierce friendship with a local girl named Avery Greer. For 10 years, they're inseparable — until one Summer when Sadie is found dead. The police rule Sadie's death a suicide, but there are whispers that Avery knows more than she lets on. In an effort to clear her name, Avery sets out to find answers.
- What Witherspoon says: "Secrets that have been hidden for years will be uncovered in this thrilling story."
September 2019 — "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
"The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott [35] ($9)
- What it's about: "The Secrets We Kept" takes place at the height of the Cold War and follows the mission of Sally Forrester, a seasoned spy, and Irina, a complete novice. Assigned to the task by the CIA, two women must smuggle the controversial film "Doctor Zhivago" out of the USSR. A literary love story, the book also tells the story of a decades-long affair between Pasternak and his mistress Olga Ivinskaya. Together, their stories create a narrative filled with extraordinary intrigue and risk
- What Witherspoon says: "You'll get to know Sally and Irina, two spies who risk it all for love and adventure."
October 2019 — "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
"Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky [36] ($15)
- What it's about: This book is Rodsky's anxiety-saving system to help spouses split up domestic responsibilities, which shines some light on all the invisible work that goes into being the matriarch of the family. Complete with 100 household tasks, a figurative card game, and easy-to-follow rules, this book is meant to help you rebalance your home life and realign your relationship with your significant other.
- What Witherspoon says: "Fair Play explores your relationship, your time and your purpose to help you find balance. Because it's all about balance, right? It's definitely a conversation starter! I hope y'all love reading this book.. and enjoy finding your UNICORN SPACE!"
November 2019 — "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moyes
"The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moyes [37] ($8)
- What it's about: Alice Wright is sick of her husband dedicating more time to his work than his wife. Restless and stifled, Alice makes a spur-of-the-moment decision to marry a wealthy American named Bennett Van Cleve, leaving her home and family behind. The change of pace is not the adventure she'd hoped for — until she meets Margery O'Hare, the daughter of a notorious felon.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's such a great narrative about personal strength and really captures how books bring communities together, especially for these women who are completely bonded by their love of literature."
December 2019 — "Conviction" by Denise Mina
"Conviction" by Denise Mina [38] ($9)
- What it's about: Anna McDonald's life gets flipped upside down after her husband springs a huge announcement on her. In order to escape her own reality, Anna becomes deeply invested in true crime podcasts, but one story hits too close to home and she's suddenly reminded of a previous life she's tried desperately to leave behind.
- What Witherspoon says: "In this thrilling story, you'll meet Anna McDonald, whose life takes a dramatic turn after she starts listening to a true-crime podcast that hits too close to home . . ."
January 2020 — "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
"Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid [39] ($10)
- What it's about: Alix Chamberlain is a successful and confident businesswoman who is shocked after learning that her 25-year-old babysitter Emira Tucker was confronted in the grocery store while watching Alix's two year old, Briar. Upon seeing Emira, a young Black woman, out with a white child, a security guard accuses her of kidnapping, and Alix sets out to make things right.
- What Witherspoon says: "This story is a beautiful conversation starter about race, privilege, work dynamics . . . I can't wait to hear your thoughts!"
February 2020 — "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
"The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister [40] ($16)
- What it's about: Emmeline is a young woman who grew up on a remote island with her father, who keeps drawers full of vials containing mysterious scents. As she grows older, her curiosity gets the best of her and soon enough she finds herself venturing out into the real world, forcing her to embark on a quest to uncover her true identity.
- What Witherspoon says: "This magical story is about a young woman, Emmaline, confronting the modern world for the very first time. As she embarks on a journey of digging up her past, she is confronted with truth about love, family and who she really is."
March 2020 — "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
"The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward [41] ($7)
- What it's about: Four disconnected family members find themselves on the same cruise ship and are forced to acknowledge their lifelong differences, digging up childhood memories and old wounds that are harder to overcome than they realized in the process.
- What Witherspoon says: "I love the sense of adventure in this story . . . If you're packing for Spring Break, be sure to include a copy of this fun read."
April 2020 — "Untamed" by Glennon Doyle
"Untamed" by Glennon Doyle [42] ($12)
- What it's about: The emotional memoir tells the story of a woman who experiences longing, discontent, and motherhood and learns to be free with herself emotionally, spiritually, and physically.
- What Witherspoon says: "This memoir is so packed with incredible insight about what it means to be a woman today, what did we learn as young girls about how to behave or believe, and why we need to free ourselves from a lot of these ideas that don't work anymore. (Hot tip: Being 'selfless' is not the highest goal a woman can achieve!!)"
May 2020 — "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
"The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi [43] ($11)
- What it's about: The captivating novel tells the story of a 17-year-old girl named Lakshmi who runs away from her abusive husband to 1950s Jaipur, India. Lakshmi makes a living for herself as a henna artist among the wealthy upper-class women of the city. As she becomes entangled in their webs of gossip and jealousy, she struggles to keep her own secrets hidden.
- What Witherspoon says: "This vivid story is so rich and complex . . . reading about Lakshmi's journey from escaping an abusive marriage to becoming one of the most sought-after henna artists in Jaipur captivated me from the first chapter to the final page."
June/July 2020 — "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
"I'm Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made For Whiteness" [44] by Austin Channing Brown ($9)
- What it's about: This memoir tells the story of a Black woman navigating a world shaped by white supremacy and relays her reflections on finding self-worth while external forces constantly try to destroy it.
- What Witherspoon says: "This memoir is a personal narrative from a Black, Christian woman who takes us through what she experiences every day as a Black person in America. This book is teaching me so much about how we perpetuate racism in our society."
June/July 2020 — "The Guest List" by Lucy Foley
"The Guest List" [45] by Lucy Foley ($15)
- What it's about: Taking place on a rainy, remote island outside Ireland, this book begins with a picture-perfect wedding. But as the alcohol begins to flow, old conflicts start to emerge, and suddenly someone winds up dead, leaving the rest of the party to search for the killer in their midst.
- What Witherspoon says: "This book is a true thriller . . . It has all kinds of twists and turns and it reminded me of some of my favorite stories from Agatha Christie."
August 2020 — "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
"Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat [46] ($10)
- What it's about: This collection of stories focuses on a variety of Haitian women's lives, from a romance that emerges between friends to a baby's christening that twines three generations together.
- What Witherspoon says: "This collection of eight beautiful stories is shaped by different Haitian women's experience with love and loss. I was so moved by the resilience and strength that these women exemplified. It's such an empowering read that taught me a lot about intricacies of Haitian culture."
September 2020 — "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
"The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim [47] ($15)
- What it's about: This book follows a young woman named Margot whose mother, Mina, dies under mysterious circumstances at her apartment in Koreatown, Los Angeles. As Margot investigates the situation, she begins to learn more about her mother's life, including Mina's experiences in the Korean War and as an undocumented immigrant. When a new romance comes along to complicate Mina's life even further, she finds herself understanding her mother in a whole new way.
- What Witherspoon says: "Identity, family secrets, and the search for belonging are just a few of the themes. This mystery-thriller interweaves between the past and present through the lens of a mother and daughter duo surrounding a suspicious death and undiscovered truths."
October 2020 — "His Only Wife" by Peace Adzo Medie
"His Only Wife" by Peace Adzo Medie [48] ($15)
- What it's about: This book takes place in Ghana and follows a seamstress named Afi who finds herself engaged to a rich businessman she's never met. As she leaves her hometown and begins a strange new life as a housewife, she begins to question whether her marriage and her new life are right for her.
- What Witherspoon says: "Reading takes us all over the world, and this month we are traveling to modern-day Ghana. Culture, heroism and the search for independence are just a few of the wonderful themes in this vibrant book."
November 2020 — "Group" by Christie Tate
"Group" by Christie Tate [49] ($14)
- What it's about: This memoir follows an ambitious young lawyer who privately struggles with depression and loneliness. When she begins group therapy, she finds herself forced to show other people who she really is, and eventually she finds redemption through the process.
- What Witherspoon says: "Christie's story of being a young professional woman who is struggling with deep insecurity and loneliness made me remember so many times in my life where I wished I had a group of friends to carry me through the hard days. And that's what Christie finds in her therapy group. This book is a testament to the power of human connection."
December 2020 — "The Chicken Sisters” by KJ Dell’Antonia
"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia [50] ($8)
- What it's about: Set in Kansas, this book tells the story of two rival fried-chicken operations and the feud between the families that run them. Protagonist Amanda, a member of the Moore family who scandalously married a Pogociello, wants nothing more than to unite the two families — and she's willing to enlist the help of a Brooklyn-based reality-TV show to do just that.
- What Witherspoon says: "Three generations, two chicken shacks, and some big family secrets revealed . . . 'The Chicken Sisters' is a charming, hilarious, feel-good story about the kind of bonds & rivalries only sisters can share."
January 2021 — "Outlawed" by Anna North
"Outlawed" by Anna North [51] ($14)
- What it's about: Taking place in 1894, "Outlawed" follows 17-year-old Anna, who finds herself unable to get pregnant after a year of marriage. She is forced to run from her hometown, where barren women are frequently accused of witchcraft, and eventually she finds a gang of outlaws led by a former preacher and joins their efforts to create a safe place for women.
- What Witherspoon says: "Centered around a fugitive on the run, 'Outlawed' is a riveting story unlike anything I've read before! This feminist Western will keep you on the edge of your seat on a high stakes ride through the old West. The search for identity and the desperation to survive drive the intensity of this women-on-the-run adventure."
February 2021 — "The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse
"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse [52] ($14)
- What it's about: "The Sanatorium" takes place at a former mental asylum that has been converted to a hotel. But when a guest named Elin's sister goes missing during a stay there and a snowstorm shuts off all possibility of escape, Elin is forced to confront the building's disturbing past.
- What Witherspoon says: "'The Sanatorium' is an eerie, atmospheric novel that had me completely on the edge of my seat. Let's set the mood . . . You're in a remote location — at a hotel — and there's a snowstorm. The winds are howling, the snow is pelting in every direction, there's a missing person, and a dead body shows up . . .!"
March 2021 — "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
"Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel [53] ($13)
- What it's about: "Infinite Country" starts out by focusing on Talia, who is being held at a correctional facility in Colombia after committing an act of impulsive violence. From there, the story zooms out to explore how Talia's family wound up scattered between two different countries, and it also examines the wounds Talia's father's deportation left behind.
- What Witherspoon says: "'Infinite Country' is an exceptionally powerful and illuminating story about a Colombian family torn apart by war and migration. I was so drawn to these characters and their unique journeys as they navigate their dreams."
April 2021 — "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
"Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry [54] ($18)
- What it's about: Taking place in Belfast, this mystery focuses on a new mom named Tessa whose sister is accused of being a part of a revolutionary political movement. As Tessa begins to learn more about her sister's identity, she finds herself caught up in a far more complicated mystery than she could've guessed.
- What Witherspoon says: "Set in Ireland, this story explores a world of secrets and lies that tear two sisters apart. Following a pitfall with the IRA, one sister is framed for espionage while the other is forced to choose between protecting her loved ones or facing unimaginable consequences."
May 2021 — "The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave
"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave [55] ($15)
- What it's about: Hannah is blindsided when her husband suddenly disappears, leaving her with his 16-year-old daughter from a previous relationship and a note that reads, "Protect her." As the FBI gets involved, Hannah begins to realize she may not have known her husband very well at all. In 2023, the book was turned into an Apple TV+ show starring Jennifer Garner [56].
- What Witherspoon says: "This story centers around Hannah, who is settling into her new role as a wife and stepmother when her husband suddenly disappears leaving her with an ominous note and a request to protect his daughter. There's so much to love about this thrilling, roller coaster of a novel."
June 2021 — "Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams
"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams [57] ($17)
- What it's about: This book follows an erotica writer and a famous novelist who meet at an event and have instant chemistry that piques the interest of the literary world. It turns out that the pair both spent a romantic week together when they were teenagers, an experience that left them both with different wounds they now have to reconcile as adults.
- What Witherspoon says: "'Seven Days in June' follows famous author, Eva Mercy, as she reconnects with her long-lost love, Shane (who is also a bestselling writer), at a book conference. Eva and Shane discover hidden truths about their tumultuous romantic past and have to decide whether they want to find their way back together after a lot of confusion and pain."
July 2021 — "The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller
"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller [58] ($13)
- What it's about: 50-year-old Elle's life suddenly veers off course when she sleeps with her lifelong best friend — who, like her, is married to someone else. From there, she's forced to question if she wants to keep the life she knows or risk a different path.
- What Witherspoon says: "'The Paper Palace' is a deeply emotional love story that follows one day in the life of Elle Bishop as she navigates the unraveling of secrets, lies and a very complex love triangle between her childhood best friend and her husband."
August 2021 — "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
"We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz [59] ($17)
- What it's about: A young backpacker named Emily is enjoying her annual trip with her best friend, Kristen — until she arrives back at their hotel to find a dead body of a fellow traveler who Kristen claims she killed in self-defense. Strangely, though, an unsettlingly similar incident happened on their last trip. Back home, Emily is forced to question whether she knows her friend, or herself, at all.
- What Witherspoon says: "The story centers around two friends, Emily and Kristin, who love to go on adventures around the world. This year they are in Chile and through a series of circumstances, end up in a room with a dead body. But here's the twist, it's not the first time it has happened to them! Coincidence?"
September 2021 — "L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón
"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón [60] ($14)
- What it's about: Set in the midst of a Los Angeles drought, "L.A. Weather" follows the Alvarado family as they're forced to confront their issues, which include difficult relationships, guilt, and the walls they keep up to keep themselves safe.
- What Witherspoon says: "'L.A. Weather' by Maria Amparo Escandón is a unique story that beautifully weaves together the themes of family and weather as we peel back the curtain on the Alvarados and their hidden lives. It's unconventional and so real, I felt deeply connected to these characters and clung to their beautiful moments of hope and togetherness."
October 2021 — "Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo
"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo [61] ($14)
- What it's about: After Anna's mother dies, she discovers that her father (who she's never met) is actually the president of a small country in Africa. As she attempts to track him down, she's forced to question his controversial politics as well as her own identity.
- What Witherspoon says: "'Sankofa' is a beautiful exploration of the often complex parameters of freedom, prejudice and individual sense of self. Chibundu Onuzo has written a captivating story about a mixed-race British woman who goes in search of the West African father she never knew."
November 2021 — "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
"The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak [62] ($14)
- What it's about: In this book, two teenagers fall in love in secret on the island of Cypress, and their forbidden romance blossoms beneath a hidden fig tree. The two are separated when war breaks out, though, and as adults, they both find themselves thinking back to that long-ago romance and wondering if they'll ever meet again.
- What Witherspoon says: "Set in different time periods, the story revolves around a couple who met in Cyprus shortly before the 1974 conflict. There's magic, mystery and a tree that plays a pivotal role which transcends world wars, cultures and great love."
December 2021 — "Lucky" by Marissa Stapley
"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley [63] ($12)
- What it's about: Lucky grew up pulling off scams and heists with her father and later, her boyfriend. But when she finds herself alone for the first time, she winds up winning the lottery. There's only one issue, though: if she turns in her ticket, she'll be caught and arrested. The dilemma forces her to wonder if redemption is possible for her after all.
- What Witherspoon says: "This is such an electric story about an unconventional heroine who is on the run from her past with a winning lottery ticket that could change her future forever. But here's the catch . . . she can't cash it in!"
January 2022 — "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
"Honor" by Thrity Umrigar [64] ($21)
- What it's about: "Honor" follows a journalist named Smita working on a story about a Hindu woman who was attacked by members of her own village after marrying a Muslim man. As Smita researches the story, she finds herself embarking on a casual romance with an Indian man, which forces her to reflect on her own past and the role of tradition in her own life.
- What Witherspoon says: "'Honor' by Thrity Umrigar is about an Indian-American journalist named Smita who returns to India on assignment. Her experiences lift the veil on the complexities of journalism and leave Smita questioning her boundaries as a reporter. Complex and unfiltered, these are the type of characters that stick with you long after you turn the pages."
February 2022 — "The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont
"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont [65] ($13)
- What it's about: Set in 1925, this book draws from real events to tell the fictional story of a woman named Miss Nan O'Dea, who befriends famous mystery writer Agatha Christie and her husband, Archie. But when Nan winds up having an affair with Archie, Agatha's marriage is thrown into chaos and ghosts from Nan's past begin to emerge.
- What Witherspoon says: "This novel covers the 11 days in 1926 when famed novelist Agatha Christie went missing. That's right, an unexpected mix of historical fiction and romance, heartbreak and revenge based on true happenings . . . but here's the twist, it's told through the perspective of her husband's mistress!"
March 2022 — "The Club" by Ellery Lloyd
"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd [66] ($14)
- What it's about: This book centers on The Home Group, an elite celebrity club with locations across the globe. At the organization's most luxurious location, though, drama is roiling behind the scenes, and the organization's CEO soon finds himself facing a bloody catastrophe.
- What Witherspoon says: "Our March @ReesesBookClub by Ellery Lloyd is a beautifully written, densely plotted murder mystery that takes place off at a private club off the coast of England. Read about a luxurious, celeb-only island during a weekend of partying and ultimately murder."
April 2022 — "True Biz" by Sara Novic
"True Biz" by Sara Novic [67] ($15)
- What it's about: "True Biz" follows a group of students and an administrator at the River Valley School For the Deaf. Focusing on a rebellious transfer student, a popular jock, and the school's embattled headmistress, it explores disability, coming of age, and much more.
- What Witherspoon says: "'True Biz' by Sara Novic, is an eye-opening and heartfelt story about human connection and the beauty and adversity woven into the deaf community and culture. It is both an educational and electrifying peek into a family's life as they fight to forge connections even as the outside world threatens to close the door on them."
May 2022 — "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
"The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams [68] ($11)
- What it's about: This book follows a girl named Esme, who grows up among scholars working to put together the first Oxford English Dictionary. When she starts discovering words that are being left out of the dictionary, though, Esme decides to do her best to chronicle stories that often remain untold.
- What Witherspoon says: "'The Dictionary of Lost Words' by Pip Williams, is a beautiful exploration of history and the power of language. For anybody who loves words and celebrates them, this subversive story weaves together love, loss and literature in a perfectly lyrical way."
June 2022 — "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
"Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen [69] ($15)
- What it's about: Ava seems to have the perfect life, but everything is falling apart under the surface. When an old friend re-enters her life and introduces her to a profitable scam — only to suddenly disappear — Ava soon finds herself forced to deal with the fact that everything she knows might just be falling apart.
- What Witherspoon says: "This month's book pick, 'Counterfeit' by Kirstin Chen, is like having a friend tell you the juiciest story. It follows Ava, a lawyer on maternity leave, who gets pulled into a fake handbag scheme by one of her best friends. It's non-stop, and every minute I was like 'Oh my gosh, are they going to get caught?!'"
July 2022 — "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
"Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola [70] ($18)
- What it's about: This book tells the story of a college student named Kiki who hosts a radio show about relationships — and is specifically known for her advice on how to avoid bad ones. But when she impulsively kisses a boy she publicly criticized on the show, she finds herself forced to salvage her reputation as her college's resident love guru while dealing with unexpected romantic feelings.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's all about a young British black woman named Kiki with a ton of ambition. She wants to land an internship in NYC, but she needs to grow the audience for her radio show and work with another student on a film. This other student is Malakai . . . and we all know where this is going."
August 2022 — "Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister
"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister [71] ($18)
- What it's about: "Wrong Place, Wrong Time" follows a woman who sees her son murder a stranger and then wakes up the day before the murder, only to watch the whole thing happen again and again. Forced to watch her son kill someone over and over, she has to confront her own role in what happened as she pieces together the factors that led him to commit such a violent act.
- What Witherspoon says: "This book is SO good. It's about a mother who is worried about her son, because he's out late one night. She looks out the window right at his curfew and she sees him stab a man in her front yard (!!), but she wakes up the next day and it's the day before her son committed the crime. She keeps going back in time, piecing together why this happened to her son."
September 2022 — "On the Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
"On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton [72] ($15)
- What it's about: "On the Rooftop" follows a talented trio of musical sisters based in San Francisco. When they receive an offer from a talent manager, stardom seems near, but at the same time, the sisters are coming of age and wondering if their band is what they want to pursue after all.
- What Witherspoon says: "Set in the 1950's in San Francisco, this book centers around an incredibly talented group of singing sisters and their fierce mom, Vivian, who has big dreams of them becoming famous. An utterly original and brilliant story about learning how to mother children who have very different dreams and how to encourage them to reach for the stars."
October 2022 — "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
"Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng [73] ($15)
- What it's about: This book follows a 12-year-old boy whose mother mysteriously vanished when he was 9. When he receives a cryptic letter, he begins to learn more about his mom and her poetry, and he meets an underground network of librarians that introduces him to a world of secrets, art, and long-awaited answers.
- What Witherspoon says: "It's set in a not-too-distant future where entire sections of the population are deemed un-American and forced away from their families. It follows the story of a young boy named Bird on the search for his mother Margaret, a poet whose work was deemed unpatriotic. I was so invested in the future of this mother and son."
November 2022 — "Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed
"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed [74] ($12)
- What it's about: "Tiny Beautiful Things" tells the story of Strayed's experiences as the writer of the popular advice column "Dear Sugar." Now a TV show starring Kathryn Hahn [75], the book chronicles the rise of Strayed's career, which occurs just as her own marriage is falling apart.
- What Witherspoon says: "At the beginning of her career, Cheryl took on the persona of Sugar and wrote an advice column, Dear Sugar, that became a sensation. Sugar's advice is no-nonsense, poignant, soul-searching, grounded, and fierce in so many loving ways."
December 2022 — "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
"The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell [76] ($17)
- What it's about: "The Marriage Portrait" follows Lucrezia, the third daughter of a Florentine grand duke. She's content with her quiet life — until her older sister dies, forcing her to marry into royalty and thrusting her into a spotlight she never wanted.
- What Witherspoon says: "I could not stop Googling all the details of this true story. It's a fascinating, historical thriller about an Italian Duchess, who we learn at the very beginning of the book will die either by sickness . . . or by her husband's hand. I can't wait to hear what you think!"
January 2023 — "The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes
"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes [77] ($15)
- What it's about: Seven years ago, Maya's best friend dropped dead in front of a strange man they'd been spending time with that summer. In the present day, Maya struggles with addiction and the fallout of the trauma of what happened. But when she stumbles on a video of another girl dying in front of the same man, she finds herself forced to confront what really happened that awful summer.
- What Witherspoon says: "This is an absolute, can't-put-it-down thriller . . . It's truly a wild ride that had me flying through chapter after chapter — which I think is the perfect way to kick off your year of reading."
February 2023 — "The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson
"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson [78] ($17)
- What it's about: This book follows two women who both seem to want exactly what the other has. 15-year-old Ruby dreams of going to college, while Eleanor is desperate for a baby . . . and when their lives overlap, they wind up changing each other forever.
- What Witherspoon says: "Set in the 1950s, this unforgettable story follows Ruby who dreams of being the first in her family to attend college, but her first love may derail her plans. And Eleanor who marries into one of DC's elite wealthy Black families but struggles to have a baby — the thing she wants most."
March 2023 — "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah [79] ($9)
- What it's about: Taking place in France in 1939, this book follows a woman whose husband is fighting in World War II. While he's away, German troops invade her small town and force her to make impossible sacrifices. Meanwhile, her younger sister finds herself falling for a German soldier who says he's fighting the Nazis from the inside. But when he betrays her, she decides to fully commit to the Resistance.
- What Witherspoon says: "This important story illuminates a part of history that's often overlooked: the women's war. It's a harrowing tale of two sisters, survival, love, and female resilience throughout Nazi-occupied France."
April 2023 — "Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld
"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld [80] ($16)
- What it's about: "Romantic Comedy" follows a comedy sketch writer named Sally who has given up on love. When a dorky male coworker of hers begins dating a gorgeous female movie star, Sally begins writing a sketch about men who date women far out of their leagues — but when she starts falling for a guy she considers out of her own league, she finds herself questioning everything she thinks she knows about romance.
- What Witherspoon says: "It is such a hilarious, sweet, smart read that I think you're going to love!!"
May 2023 — "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
"Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul [81] ($16)
- What it's about: When a white movie star named Kitty Karr dies, she leaves her home to three young Black women. When the sisters move into her mansion, they begin to discover mysterious secrets about their own family, Karr's past, and a web of crimes and lies that could have major implications for their own careers.
- What Witherspoon says: "Our May Reese's Book Club Pick is 'Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?' by Crystal Smith Paul! It's about what happens when a woman inherits the estate of a Hollywood icon and discovers secrets hiding in her family . . ."
June 2023 — "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
"Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale [82] ($21)
- What it's about: Over the course of one day, Cassandra is dumped, fired, and left disappointed by her favorite cafe. When she discovers she can change the past, at first she attempts to salvage her old life, but she soon finds out that things may not be quite that simple.
- What Witherspoon says: "This super charming and witty novel is about main character Cassie who is stuck in a time loop while trying to fix the third worst day of her life. You may THINK you know what's going on... but keep reading!!"