12 Halloween Decor Hacks to DIY from Crate and Barrel’s Collection

Creating chic Halloween decor that’s both spooky and stylish takes some planning, and fortunately, Crate and Barrel’s Halloween section is full of *must-have* accessories that are the perfect inspo for a creative upgrade or a total DIY hack. Obviously, you have to have a few holiday favorites like no-carve pumpkins, black cats and ghostly spirits, but if you’re a discerning decorator looking for a sleek and modern aesthetic, take a cue from Crate and Barrel’s decor to bring your home to a spooktacular level of chic. Whether it’s adding luminaries to your porch or bringing some creepy crawlies to your table setting, these 12 Halloween decor hacks will easily (and inexpensively) turn your home into a glam spook-fest.

1. DIY Paper Lanterns: Halloween is *all* about the lighting, whether it be spooky or chic AF. Copy Crate and Barrel’s Boo Halloween Luminary ($15) with these sleek paper cutout luminaries. Once you’ve cut out these scary but oh, so pretty silhouettes, you can use these lanterns to decorate your mantel, dinner table or book shelf. Just remember to use battery-powered candles! (via Lia Griffith)

2. DIY Color-Blocked Pumpkin Candy Dish: If you’re looking for an alternative color scheme this Halloween, transform traditional orange pumpkins into glam pastel candy dishes. Use Crate and Barrel’s Pumpkin Serving Bowls ($7+) for this project, or head to the dollar store and find an even less expensive option. (via A Kailo Chic Life)

3. DIY Fast and Festive Pumpkin Votives: Good things come in small packages, or in this case, miniature pumpkins. ‘Tis the season for well-lit dinner parties, and while Crate and Barrel’s Pumpkin Candles ($17, set of three) are the perfect way to keep the theme going, the DIY version is a brilliant way to take your table centerpiece to the next level. Carve tea-light-sized holes in real or fake pumpkins and paint them your favorite fall shades. (via Francois et Moi)

4. DIY Cat String Lights: Take your love of everything feline-themed right to the ceiling. Make a copy of Crate and Barrel’s Halloween Cat String Lights ($35) with black construction paper and LED string lights. These meow-tastic twinklers come together really quickly, so you’ll have plenty of time to DIY a totally gorg mantel to go with your new kitty garland. (via Nostalgiecat)

5. DIY Paper Craft Haunted House: Nothing perks up your mantel or coffee table like an entire haunted village. And while Crate and Barrel’s Halloween Haunted Graveyard ($25) is very stylish, the DIY version gets extra points for being handmade, 3D and ghost-ridden. Instead of shelling out on a whole slew of paper cutouts, easily DIY your own with this adorable printable version. (via Lia Griffith)

6. DIY Spooky Halloween Wreath: The coolest thing about the Crate and Barrel’s Black Branch Wreath ($50) is that you can leave it as-is or add a few bats and spiders for extra spookiness. Fortunately, the wreath is *v* easy to recreate with a quick trip outside or to the dollar store for branches. Grab a can of black spray paint and personalize your own minimalist black branch wreath in no time. (via Earnest Home Co.)

7. DIY Spooky Crystal Ball Halloween Candlesticks: Nobody ever said art has to be in a frame. Dress up black candlesticks like Crate and Barrel’s Emmett Bronze Taper Candle Holders ($19+) with clear Christmas balls and printable vintage creatures. These floating creepy crawlies are the perfect addition to a Halloween mantel or table centerpiece. (via Flamingo Toes)

8. DIY No-Sew Halloween Table Runner: Bring an inexpensive table runner to Crate and Barrel’s level with this easy hack. Get inspired by their Halloween Pumpkins Felt Table Runner ($17) to create the perfect table setting with this simple sewing project. Hang tiny black spiders at different levels along the edge to create maximum spookiness. (via Make It & Love It)

9. DIY Halloween Silhouette Plates: Combine your love of dessert and ghoulish Victorian art into these chic dishes to make an easy hack of Crate and Barrel’s Halloween Black Cat Melamine Dinner Plate ($6). Melding the ever-popular vintage prints with a glam black and white color scheme might just be the *coolest* way to bring Halloween to the table. (via Boxwood Avenue)

10. DIY Halloween Gumball Letters: Get in the season’s spirit with a colorful and modern typography piece that stylishly mimics Crate and Barrel’s Halloween BOO Letters ($35). The addition of gumballs makes this DIY extra playful — arrange the letters on your mantel or set them up on your bookshelf for a seasonal #shelfie. (via Sister’s Suitcase)

11. DIY Spiderweb Doormat: Once you’ve covered the inside of your house with Halloween decor, it’s time to turn your attention to the porch. Hack Crate and Barrel’s Haunted House Halloween Coir Doormat ($30) with just a few craft supplies. The spider-web shape is the perfect-sized decoration for even the smallest of entryways. (via Delia Creates)

12. DIY Mummy Pillow: Even if you’re not a sewing expert, you can hack Crate and Barrel’s Haunted House Halloween Pillow ($40) with this adorable DIY mummy pillow. For this no-sew project, all you need is a set of felt googly eyes and a roll of cheesecloth. It’s such a fun project that you might just find yourself mummifying every pillow on your couch. (via Eighteen 25)

Which is your favorite DIY Crate and Barrel project? Follow us on Pinterest for more rad Halloween decor ideas and DIY inspo.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Even if you love Halloween as much as the next gal, do you really want to keep shelling out $60 for a store-bought costume every year? Heck no! Whether you're a busy girl who doesn't have time to turn out a next-level costume or a lazy girl who just… can't even, we know that come October 30 you prob won't have anything in the pipeline. Don't panic, just get creative with what's already in your closet! Your squad will still be looking strong wherever you decide to spend fright night.

Olivia Rodrigo

Evoking by Olivia Rodrigo on her Sour album, this costume only requires you have a short plaid skirt, crop top, fall boots, and stickers for your face. (via Brit+Co)

Cassie from Euphoria

This costume is really all about the makeup. Cassie wears a lot of light blue, but you could probably make it work with your favorite form-fitting outfit along with glittery eye makeup. (via Brit+Co)

Marty McFly from Back to the Future

Go back to the future (and the '80s) with this Marty McFly costume that requires little more than jeans, a flannel shirt, a denim jacket, a vest, and — skateboard is optional, really. (via Brit+Co)

Harley Quinn from Suicide Squad

Yes, you can look good while being bad!Pull off this mod super villain look with stuff you can find in your closet. Wear a bomber jacket, ripped tee, and fishnet tights (don't act like you don't have them). Then put your hair in pigtails and pick up some pink and blue hair dye. (via Brit + Co)

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Audrey Hepburn

Channel your inner Holly Golightly and have Breakfast at Tiffany's this Halloween. All you'll need is a black dress, pearls, a tiara, and a long cigarette. Extra credit if you bring along your cat.

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Frida Kahlo

Kahlo might be best known for her signature unibrow, but her outfits and next-level color combos were also pretty fabulous. Pull off this look with a flower crown, floral fashion and funky earrings. Don't forget to pencil in the 'brow!

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Morton's Salt Girl

How cute is the famous girl on the salt shaker? You know, the one that's hiding in the back of your spice cabinet? To pull off her look, you'll need a yellow dress, white tights, salt and umbrella.

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Flight Attendant

Head out on the town or navigate the friendly skies? Whatever your plans are, you'll be ready in no time with this super easy costume! All you have to wear is a navy or red skirt, white blouse and printed scarf. Throw in a suitcase and wing pin if you're feeling fancy.

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Troll

How much did you love your Troll doll as a kid? Now you can dress up as a life-size one with stuff you probably already have around the house. How great is that? You'll just need any nude-colored clothing, a felt diamond you can cut, and any colorful wig.

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Lorelai Gilmore

Is it laundry day again? No worries, you'll be looking amazing as Lorelai Gilmore with this last-minute look. Just wear a pink tie dye tee, jean shorts, and a coat — they don't even need to match. Bring a coffee mug with you in case you need to make a late-night stop at Luke's.

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Netflix + Chill

Get your mind out of the gutter! You're just getting ready for an epic horror movie marathon, right? There are many interpretations of this costume, from lounging around with some popcorn to a bag of ice along with your Netflix shirt.

Party Animal

Ready to paint the town red? Get out there and party this Halloween, you crazy animal. Chances are you have a glitzy gown and any animal mask hanging around. So easy! (Photo via Brit + Co)

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White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland

Head through the looking glass with this elevated Alice look. You'll need a red blazer, pocket watch or clock and a white dress. Throw on white shoes, a bowtie and bunny ears, if you have some.

Carmen Sandiego

Where in the world are you going to be this Halloween? Whether it's going on a crime spree in London or Lisbon, you'll be looking stylish. Dress up in a red trench coat, fedora, black boots, leather pants and leather gloves. (via Brit + Co)

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Amelie

Watching Amelie makes us have major French women #goals. For this easy costume, rock a cardigan, tank, and skirt or a red sweater with a black dress. Bring along a garden gnome or spoon for creme brûlée!

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Darla from Finding Nemo

Just imagining Darla around a fish tank gives us the heebie-jeebies. Her look is easy to pull off, though. Wear your hair in pigtails, wear a sweater or sweatshirt, use tube or wire for “headgear." Bring along a plastic bag with a plastic fish and water inside.

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Rosie the Riveter

Who run the world? Girls! Show everyone you mean business by dressing as Rosie the Riveter this year. Get to work in denim jeans, a denim shirt, boots and a bandana.

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Minnie Mouse

So what if you're a grown-up? You'll never stop loving Disney, like, ever. Show your love for Minnie Mouse with this adorable costume. You'll just need to scrounge up a red skirt, black top, white gloves, red bow and black shoes.

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Dorothy from The Wizard of Oz

We get it — a tornado came and blew away your Halloween costume and crushed a witch, too, right? Get back on the yellow brick road to Halloween fun as Dorothy. Wear any blue dress, white shirt, red shoes, braids and a picnic basket.

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Bank Robber

Freeze! And hand over all the candy. Steal hearts on Halloween with this bank robber costume. You'll just need black pants, a black and white striped shirt, water gun, mask and a black hat.

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Tweedle Dee/Tweedle Dum

Grab your best pal and go out together as Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dum. Bonus points if you speak in rhyme the whole night. Wear red pants, suspenders, yellow shirts, blue bow ties and red hats.

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Wilson from Castaway

Tom Hanks was amazing in Castaway. But let's be real, Wilson was the real star of the show. Show up in a white T-shirt with a red handprint.

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Mario

It's you, Mario! And in five minutes, you're ready to power up! All you'll need is a rat hat, red shirt, overalls, and red Converse. Bonus points if you make a cardboard go-kart for some irl Mario Kart.

Where's Waldo

Everyone will be able to find you in a crowd. This Waldo outfit really stands out! You'll need jeans, a red and white striped shirt, glasses and red or striped beanie. (via Brit + Co)

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Aunt Flo

Wait, who invited Aunt Flo to the party? This might be the easiest costume of all time. And possibly the grossest or funniest, depending on your POV. Wear a red hat, red glasses, red dress, red gloves and bring your suitcase.

Mary Poppins

Everyone's favorite nanny made even medicine taste better with a spoonful of sugar. This look is great for a last-minute get together. A white dress with a red belt and some red bows is one option, or you can wear a dark skirt, white top, red bowtie and hat. Either way, don't forget your umbrella! (via Brit + Co)

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Taylor Swift

Keep on celebrating the Fearless (Taylor's Version) era with one of her most iconic and easiest music video looks. All you need is a white tee and some sharpies!

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Sadness

Feeling a little blue about not having a Halloween costume? Just go as Sadness from Inside Out. You'll only need blue pants, a gray turtleneck, glasses, blue hair spray and blue makeup.

Eleven from Stranger Things

Everyone and their mother is anticipating the new season of Stranger Things. Dress up as Eleven and show off your psychic skills while you wait. You'll need a pink dress, knee-high socks, blue coat, Eggo waffles and a fake bloody nose. (via Brit + Co)

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Flo from Progressive Insurance

You probably know Flo from all the Progressive commercials. Offer everyone the best rates on candy or booze. You'll need an all-white outfit, Progressive logo, apron and “Flo" name tag.

Dancing Emoji Dolls

Grab a pal for this last-minute look that couldn't be any easier. You'll both need black leotards, black dance shoes, nude tights and black headbands with ears. Get ready to pose for lots of snaps. (via Brit + Co)

Sushi

Your Halloween night will be on a roll if you show up as sushi. If you're not feeling a DIY, just add a colored pillow, belt, and chopsticks to an all-white outfit. Pro tip: Try not to spill any soy sauce on yourself. (via Brit + Co)

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Grapes

Don't wine about not having a costume. You'll be the opposite of sour grapes with this fun, fruity look. To pull it off, you'll need purple balloons safety pinned onto an all purple outfit.

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Birthday Cake

Your friends will love this look as much as any kid loves cake. It does require a bit of DIY: You'll need birthday candles glued onto a headband. Then go for an all white or pink outfit.

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Little Red Riding Hood

Forget the fairy tale. Red Riding Hood can be a downright sexy costume choice. To pull it off, you'll need a black dress, red cape and a picnic basket.

Looking for more easy Halloween costume ideas? Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter!

This post has been updated.

I love sappy, sweet-as-candy rom-coms. You know, the ones where two leads spend the entire movie pursuing other people only to realize they were in love with each other the whole time. The movie usually takes place in a big city or a small town (and sometimes both), there's a quirky best friend, and there's always a big declaration of love before the credits roll. And while these straightforward movies are always on my watchlist, I also love the wacky movies that involve hilarious misunderstandings, ridiculous fight scenes, and gravity-defying Dirty Dancing movies (yes, I'm talking about Emma Stone & Ryan Gosling'sCrazy Stupid Love here). Humor always makes a movie even more enjoyable to watch, and A Family Affair is as wacky as they come. The movie reunites Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron, who played opposite each other ten years ago, and this time, Joey King's added into the mix. Here's everything you need to know about the new summer movie.

What is the movie A Family Affair about?

Image via Netflix

Like any good rom com, A Family Affair is all about a surprising romance — just not the kind Zara might be hoping for. When her mother (Nicole Kidman) and her famous actor boss (Zac Efron) fall for each other, their newfound relationship complicates everyone's ideas of sex and identity, and Zara's entire life. And, just like you might expect when your boss and mother hook up, chaotic hilarity ensues.

When does A Family Affair come out?

You can watch A Family Affair on Netflix starting June 28.

Who's in the A Family Affair movie cast?

Image via Netflix

Joey King, Zac Efron, and Nicole Kidman lead this new rom-com, and they're joined by a few of our other favorite actors! A Family Affair also stars Liza Koshy and Kathy Bates.

What does A Family Affair mean?

Image via Netflix

A family affair refers to a situation that's connected to someone's family in one way or another. For me, being an adult has been all about establishing work-life balance, and I'm sure the same is true for Zara. I can't wait to see how this movie's unexpected romance turns everything upside down.

What else did Nicole Kidman and Zac Efron star in?

Image via Netflix

Before they were cast in A Family Affair, Zac Efron and Nicole Kidman played lovers in The Paperboy in 2012. Familiarity and comfort are two super important things in any romantic role, and I can already tell from these first look images that Zac and Nicole not only have awesome chemistry, but they're comfortable enough around each other to just have fun. And that's all we can ask for from a good movie!

What would YOU do if your boss and one of your parents hooked up? Let us know in the comments and on Facebook!

Lead image via Netflix

When it comes to the fall and winter holidays, Halloween is the official kickoff, and for good reason. Between the spooky cocktails and the awesome group costumes, there are countless ways to enjoy partying with your friends and family. But any truly amazing shindig needs food first: appetizers, meals, treats, and desserts. Whether you're making sweets or are into the savory kind of scary snack, here are 25 Halloween treats that will delight the real kids and the inner children in all of us.

Cyclops Cupcakes

Make these in mini muffin pans to enjoy a sweet dessert. (via Brit + Co)

Healthy Pumpkin Smoothies

Start your day with a pumpkin smoothie that has just the right amount of sweetness to give you a boost in the morning. (via Brit + Co)

Deviled Egg Brains

No matter what other fancy treats you serve at your party, people go wild for the deviled eggs every time. They're somehow even *more* irresistible when dressed up as brains. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Spice Churro Milkshakes

You won't even think about Halloween candy when you have a decadent pumpkin spice milkshake to sip on instead. (via Brit + Co)

Million-Layer Pumpkin Crepe Cake

Is it breakfast or dessert? We say both! (via Brit + Co)

Mini Vegan Pumpkin Pie

There's nothing spookier than not having something yummy to serve your vegan guests. Avoid that horror show by making a batch of mini pumpkin pies. (via Brit + Co)

No-Bake Pumpkin Ice Cream Tart With Speculoos Crust

You'll only need one grocery store trip for this no-bake pumpkin treat. Shhhh… We promise not to tell if you simply can't share. (via Brit + Co)

Monster Sushi

If your kids are freaked out at the thought of eating raw fish... all the better. It's Halloween, after all! (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Samoas

The only thing scary about these pumpkin, caramel, and coconut cookies is how fast you'll be able to inhale the whole batch. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream

Pumpkin pie ice cream makes one heck of an a la mode. (via Brit + Co)

Monster Avocado Toasts

Savory avocado toast, jazzed up with nori and other garnishes, is a tasty counterpoint to all that sugar. (via Brit + Co)

One Pot Cheesy Pumpkin Pecan Pasta

Keep away that October chill by serving up a hearty dish of creamy pumpkin pasta before heading out to beg for candy. (via Brit + Co)

Pumpkin Seed Puppy Chow

A party isn't a party without puppy chow. Make yours seasonal with pumpkin pie spice. (via Brit + Co)

Mummy Pizzas

Fresh ciabatta bread is the base for these easily customizable pizzas. The zucchini bandages are healthy *and* terrifying. (via Brit + Co)

Creamy Pumpkin Apple Quesadillas

Both sweet and savory, crispy quesadillas stuffed with cheese, apples, and pumpkin work well as a snack, appetizer, light lunch, or post-trick-or-treating revival meal. (via Love and Zest)

Fish Stick Mummies

Fish sticks and cheddar cheese are a convincingly spooky, mummified snack. (via Cutefetti)

Monster Candy Bark

If you find yourself with extra candy, melt it all down for this no-rules candy bark. Chill in the refrigerator until hard and break into bite-sized pieces. (via Fork and Beans)

Freaky Healthy Halloween Salad

No one will mind if you're that person who brings a salad to the party. The little heads of cauliflower kind of look like brains, and the syringe dressing is a clever themed accessory. (via Boulder Locavore)

Halloween Eyeball Sub

Radishes and olive slices make eerily convincing edible eyeballs. Serve on jumbo hoagie rolls for dinner, or swap those for slider buns and serve them up at your next party. (via Kitchen Sanctuary)

Halloween Snack Platter

Make the items on this platter ahead of time, then set it out for everyone to nosh on. You'll be able to spend time with the fam instead of in the kitchen getting food ready. (via Foxes Love Lemons)

Little Potato Monster Eyeballs

Who knew something that looks like bulging monster eyeballs could also taste so good? (via Noshing With the Nolands)

Pumpkin Pie Dip

Cheesecake filling and canned pumpkin are the main ingredients for this seasonal snack. Serve it up with graham crackers or some cinnamon sugar pita chips. (via Cooking Classy)

Monster Bell Pepper Salad Cups

Turning your salad into a bona fide spook-fest is the only way you'll get your kids (or yourself) to eat veggies at Halloween when there's a bunch of candy lying around. (via Fork and Beans)

Mummy Calzones

If you're a Leslie Knope, you might be satisfied with a mummy pizza on Halloween. But if you're more of a Ben Wyatt type, you know that nothing but a calzone will do. (via Frugal MomEh!)

Pumpkin Spice Chocolate Chip Blondies

The best thing about blondies, aside from them being blondies? You can cut them into any size. Make adorable bite-sized versions to feed a crowd at your Halloween party. (via The Healthy Maven)

Wow your guests with more of our Halloween hacks on our Pinterest page.

Additional reporting by Irina Gonzalez

From running on 3 hours of sleep to constant diaper changes, mamas do so much. We've teamed up with @diapergenieofficial for a special Mother’s Day gift to make things easier for new moms: receive a FREE Diaper Genie Select Pail with square refill technology, plus enough refills to get you off to a great start! The giveaway will consist of one Select Pail + four Jumbo Refills for an associated value of up to $118. Say goodbye to diaper odors in style with this sleek, easy-to-use pail. The winner will also receive a $500 Amazon gift card to shop for all their baby and household needs. Check the deets below!

Enter to win a new Diaper Genie Select Pail and four Jumbo Refills here. Giveaway ends on May 31. One lucky winner will be announced on Wednesday, June 5.

Good luck mamas! #DiaperGenie #MothersDayMagic

After compiling my vacation reads, I'm *finally* ready to start combing through Reese Witherspoon's Book Club list. Her revelation about reading books in her cover feature interview with Harper's Bazaar made me realize I need to step my game up ASAP.

Her admirable hobby - that's since led her to create a bourgeoning book club— continues to highlight books with women at the center, girl does she have a great eye for stories that fit every mood. To date, her book club list has amassed over 90 titles of romantic beach reads, thrillers, and more.

Since it's a new year and we're sure you not ready to tackle that many titles, I went through the list to pick the top 26 books worth diving into. Buckle up because they're sure to take our emotions on a ride! After you finish your TBR (To Be Read list), check out 24 Standout Reads From Jenna Bush Hager's Book Club, 20 Captivating Shondaland Book Club Picks, and 16 Must-Reads From The Oprah Winfrey Book Club!

May 2024: How to End a Love Story

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Trigger warning: This book mentions suicide and grief.
Helen Zhang and Grant Shepard are bound by an event that changed their lives forever. Before you ask, it's not a steamy one night stand where one of them ghosted the other.
Their paths actually crossed because of a pivotal accident that neither of them saw coming and it caused Helen to view Grant as her worst enemy for years. However, time passed and they moved on to separately create lucrative careers. What they couldn't have expected was for their paths to cross, especially not at work.
Given the amazing opportunity to be a writer for the TV adaption of her own successful YA books, Helen anxiously travels to LA to accept the position and hit the reset button on her life. She has a brief moment of euphoria until she realizes that Grant will also be in the writer's room.
Now they'll have to confront their complicated feelings for each other in order not to derail their jobs and lives. They know it's impossible for them to have a true love story, but sometimes the messiness of life is all it takes for two people to find common ground and decide how they want their stories to end.

April 2024: The Most Fun We Ever Had

The Most Fun We Ever Had by Claire Lombardo

When Marilyn Connolly and David Sorenson fell in love, all they knew is that nothing could shake their foundation. Despite their unwavering hope in the past, their current reality looks differently than they imagined. Their four daughters — Wendy, Violet, Liza, and Grace — each have a unique set of problems that creates of chaos for the family. From the loss of one's husband to the secrets the youngest daughter keeps, the Sorensons are never quite sure what to expect.

In a shocking turn of events, a young man — Jonah Bendt — shows up and reveals that one of the daughters is his mom. He was placed up for adoption some time ago, but he's ready to come home to learn more about his biological family. There may be drama in The Most Fun We Ever Had, but there's still a family who finds a way back to the love that Marilyn and David have always believed in.

March 2024: Anita De Monte Laughs Last 

Art student Raquel only comes Anita de Monte's story after she starts feeling like she's starting to make a name for herself among College Hill's socialites. The more she learns about how Anita's life was horrifically cut short, she starts drawing parallels between their lives. It's almost like history is repeating itself and it's hitting too close to home.

As Gonzalez alternates between both of their perspectives, Raquel and Anita's lives begin to intersect in a way that makes Anita de Monte Laughs Last the kind of novel that'll have you thinking about it longer after you finish the last page.

February 2024: "Redwood Court" by DéLana R.A. Dameron

Redwood Court reads like a historical love letter to Black families and contains relationships that remind me of my own family. When Mika Tabor starts asking questions about her family's history, she receives much more than her class assignment asked for. The more she listens to her grandparents and observes her parents, she realizes they've been telling her meaningful stories all along. From tales of racism to the sweet grasp of a world that began moving past obvious racial tension, this novel offers a glimpse into the homes of many Black families.

While I often say I'd like to pass down books to my kids, Redwood Court has become something that I feel is mandatory to read.

January 2024: "First Lie Wins" by Ashley Elston

Reese's Book Club is coming in hot with their first pick of the year! This thriller of a reader is all about "Evie Porter" and her separate identities. One paints the picture of who she truly is, but her job places her in the position of assuming a new name in order to complete the mission given to her by Mr. Smith. She's never met Mr. Smith, her boss, but she has the inkling that her latest mission hits a little too close to home.

Does he know more about her than she realizes and can she successfully fulfill the goal he has for? Buy your copy of First Lie Wins today to find out!

December 2023: "Before We Were Innocent" by Ella Berman

What would you do if you knew a terrible secret that involved the death of one of your best friends? In Before We Were Innocent, Bess and Joni find themselves trying to escape answering this. However, some things are hard to bury — especially when the past comes knocking in the form of Joni. Will the two former best friends be able to maintain their innocence or will they have to accept the truth about themselves?

November Pick: "Maybe Next Time" by Cesca Major

If the past few years have felt like you've been stuck in a weird time loop, you'll love this page turner by Cesca Major. Maybe Next Time follows Emma as she navigates being a busy literary agent, wife and mother - except she only seems to have time for her career. When her husband is involved in a tragic car accident, Emma finds herself distraught only to wake up and see him alive again.

As the scenario continues to repeat, Emma will have to dig deep inside herself to correct patterns she's been a part of her to save not only her husband but life as she knows it.

October Pick: "Starling House" by Alix E. Harrow

Starling House is a daring tale of what happens when dreams meet determination, grit and evil. All Opal wants to do is create a haven for herself and her brother Jasper but she'll have to fight for it once she finds herself in the mysterious mansion of author E. Starling. In the depths of the shadows, she'll come face to face with things that'll test her resilience.

September Pick: "Mother-Daughter Murder Night" by Nina Simon 

Image via Target

The women of the Rubicon family have a lot to tangle with in Mother-Daughter Murder Night. When powerful matriarch Lana's granddaughter Jack becomes the prime suspect in an unsolved murder, Lana becomes determined to find a killer instead of waiting for her disease to have it's last say. Find out what Nina Simon has in store for the town the Rubicons find themselves living in.

August Pick: "Tom Lake" by Ann Patchett

Image via Target

Tom Lake weaves a beautiful tale of remembered love and viewing the humanity of one's parent. When Lara begins to regale her three daughters of a former romance she shared with actor Peter Duke at Tome Lake, they begin to take stock of what they know about their mom as well as their own love lives.

"Romantic Comedy" by Curtis Sittenfeld 

Heartbreak has the potential to make you swear off love, which is something that late night writer Sally Milz knows all too well. She's also a firm believer in the "Danny Horst Rule," the phenomenon where average looking men exclusively date women more attractive than them — until pop star Noah Brewster shows up to host the late night show. Join her for an intoxicating love ride that makes her change her perspective.

"Where The Crawdads Sing" by Delia Owens 

If you love a good romance-murder mystery, you'll fall in love with Kya's story. After the town's golden boy winds up dead, everyone in town begins blaming Kya for his murder. With heartbreak and triumph woven throughout, Where The Crawdads Sing will become the summer read you can't put down.

"The House of Eve" by Sadeqa Johnson

Even when forbidden, love seems to find a way in The House of Eve. 15-year-old Ruby is set to be her family's first college attendee, until it appears a scandalous affair will bring her back into poverty. Meanwhile, Eleanor's in love with William, a member of an elite Black family in D.C. that doesn't let just anyone in. The lives of both women will collide in an unexpected way as they forge their own paths.

"The House in the Pines" by Ana Reyes 

Maya witnessed her friend's sudden death in the woods seven years ago. Now, with nothing except a few hazy memories, she's determined to figure out what she saw, and who's behind it. The House In The Pines is proof that sometimes our past — and their secrets — don't stay dead.

"Tiny Beautiful Things" by Cheryl Strayed 

Life can feel like a dumpster fire sometimes which is why Tiny Beautiful Things feels like a soothing hug. If you love advice columns, you'll love the beautiful compilation of questions "Dear Sugar" answers within the pages as Clare sets out to offer advice while her own life falls apart. After you read the book, check out our interview with Sarah Pidgeon, who stars in the Hulu series!

"Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng 

New friends Mia and Elena are pitted against each other when everyone in town splits over a custody battle. Adapted into a mini-series on Hulu at the beginning of the pandemic, Little Fires Everywhere is a tale that shows everything isn't always what it seems, and there are always secrets to be discovered.

"Wrong Place, Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister 

Wrong Place, Wrong Time is a novel that explores the lengths a mother is willing to take to prevent her son from doing something unspeakable. Will she be able to piece together clues in time or will all hope remain lost?

"Daisy Jones and The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

This titular novel turned Emmy award-nominated Amazon Prime series Daisy Jones & The Six explores the rise — and fall — of a legendary (and fictional) band.

"True Biz" by Sara Nović 

This heartwarming book about life at the River Valley School for the Deaf, and all of its students with completely different backgrounds, will make you laugh and cry with its beautiful depiction of human connection.

"The Club" by Ellery Lloyd 

If you've never liked hearing "How can you hate from outside the club? You can't even get in," you'll be glad you're not a part of this members-only society. The club has been pushed to its limit and everyone has something to hide.

"The Christie Affair" by Nina de Gramont 

Nan infiltrates Agatha Christie's home in 1925, intent on luring her husband away. There's something about love, affairs, and dark secrets that make for a good read, and you won't be able to get enough of this tale where things aren't always what they seem.

"Lucky" by Marissa Stapley 

"She's so lucky" ...or is she? Lucky redefines what it means to be honest when the titular character completes a million-dollar heist, and is left stranded by the very people who taught her how to scam.

"Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo 

When Anna learns the father she never knew is still alive, she travels to West Africa in search of answers. The tale of self-discovery through one's history, as well as the themes of home and belonging, is something we all long to understand at some point.

"L.A. Weather" by María Amparo Escandón 

Families can be complicated, and the Alvarados are no different. If you're looking for a little break from your own family dynamics, you'll get a kick out of reading along as they navigate evacuations, relationship problems, and their father's obsession with the Weather Channel.

"The Paper Palace" by Miranda Cowley Heller 

What happens when desire spills over and threatens to unravel everything two friends have built? The Paper Palace answers that as Elle must choose between continuing the life she has dedicated herself to and the life she never got to live.

"Seven Days in June" by Tia Williams 

When former lovers Eva and Shane reunite in the midst of their successful literary careers, they find that their chemistry is still as strong as it used to be. But, will the flame fizzle before their lingering questions are answered or will Eva choose vulnerability before Shane disappears again?

"The Last Thing He Told Me" by Laura Dave 

What would you do if your significant other disappeared without a trace, only leaving a cryptic note behind? In Hannah's case, she sets out on an unpredictable mission for answers — regardless of what lies ahead. After you read the book, check out our interview with Angourie Rice, who stars in the Apple TV+ series!

"The Sanatorium" by Sarah Pearse 

Le Sommet is a sanatorium-turned-luxury hotel in the Swiss Alps. Detective Elin arrives to celebrate her estranged brother Isaac's engagement to Laure, and her discomfort turns to all-out horror when Laure goes missing.

"You Have a Match" by Emma Lord 

DNA tests can reveal new information about our ancestry, but when Abby learns that she has an older sister — and that her older sister is an Instagram star — the women decide to meet up and get to the bottom of why their parents split them up in the first place.

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell'Antonia 

Nothing brings families together like food and age-old rivalries, something that sisters Amanda and Mae learn firsthand when they end up on opposite sides of a cooking competition. If you love hit TV series The Bear, you'll love The Chicken Sisters.

Other Stories On Reese Witherspoon's Book Club List

  • "Yellowface" by R.F. Kuang
  • "Cassandra in Reverse" by Holly Smale
  • "Did You Hear About Kitty Karr?" by Crystal Smith Paul
  • "The Nightingale" by Kristin Hannah
  • "The Marriage Portrait" by Maggie O'Farrell
  • "Our Missing Hearts" by Celeste Ng
  • "On The Rooftop" by Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
  • "Honey & Spice" by Bolu Babalola
  • "Counterfeit" by Kirstin Chen
  • "The Dictionary of Lost Words" by Pip Williams
  • "Anatomy" by Dana Schwartz
  • "Honor" by Thrity Umrigar
  • "The Island of Missing Trees" by Elif Shafak
  • "Within These Wicked Walls" by Lauren Blackwood
  • "We Were Never Here" by Andrea Bartz
  • "The Downstairs Girl" by Stacey Lee
  • "Tokyo Ever After" by Emiko Jean
  • "Northern Spy" by Flynn Berry
  • "Firekeeper's Daughter" by Angeline Boulley
  • "Infinite Country" by Patricia Engel
  • "Outlawed" by Anna North
  • "The Light in Hidden Places" by Sharon Cameron
  • "A Cuban Girl's Guide to Tea and Tomorrow" by Laura Taylor Namey
  • "Group" by Christie Tate
  • "Fable" by Adrienne Young
  • "His Only Wife" by Peace Medie Adzo
  • "Furia" by Yamile Saied Mendez
  • "The Last Story of Mina Lee" by Nancy Jooyoun Kim
  • "You Should See Me in a Crown" by Leah Johnson
  • "Everything Inside" by Edwidge Danticat
  • "I'm Still Here" by Austin Channing Brown
  • "The Guest List" by Lisa Foley
  • "The Henna Artist" by Alka Joshi
  • "UNTAMED" by Glennon Doyle
  • "The Jetsetters" by Amanda Eyre Ward
  • "The Scent Keeper" by Erica Bauermeister
  • "Such a Fun Age" by Kiley Reid
  • "Conviction" by Denise Mina
  • "The Giver of Stars" by Jojo Moye
  • "Fair Play" by Eve Rodsky
  • "The Secrets We Kept" by Lara Prescott
  • "The Last House Guest" by Megan Miranda
  • "Whisper Network" by Chandler Baker
  • "The Cactus" by Sarah Haywood
  • "From Scratch" by Tembi Locke
  • "The Night Tiger" by Yangsze Choo
  • "The Proposal" by Jasmine Guillory
  • "The Library Book" by Susan Orlean
  • "One Day in December" by Josie Silver
  • "The Other Woman" by Sandie Jones
  • "This Is How It Always Is" by Laurie Frankel
  • "Still Lives" by Maria Hummel
  • "Next Year in Havana" by Chanel Cleeton
  • "Something in the Water" by Catherine Steadman
  • "You Think It, I'll Say It" by Curtis Sittenfeld
  • "Happiness" by Heather Harpham
  • "Erotic Stories For Punjabi Widows" by Balli Kaur Jaswal
  • "The Light We Lost" by Jill Santopolo
  • "Braving the Wilderness" by Brené Brown
  • "The Last Mrs. Parrish" by Liv Constantine
  • "The Is the Story of a Happy Marriage" by Ann Patchett
  • “The Rules of Magic” by Alice Hoffman
  • "The Lying Game" by Ruth Ware
  • "The Alice Network" by Kate Quinn
  • "Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine" by Gail Honeyman

Whether you want to challenge yourself to read a book every couple of days like Reese or choose a few books to get you through the summer, I'm sure you'll find titles to add to your growing library. I already have my eyes on Where The Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens and The Club by Ellery Lloyd!

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This post has been updated.

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