NYC’s Chromat Makes “Future-Forward” Bodywear for Every Type of Body

Apr 17, 2018

Every Body celebrates inclusivity and the representation of human beings in every shape and form.

Over the past few years, a growing number of brands and retailers have (finally!) begun catering to all body types. Unfortunately, shopping for lingerie, swimwear, and activewear that fits, supports, and flatters a curvier figure can still prove to be a daunting task. Enter Chromat.

Founded in 2010 by Becca McCharen-Tran, the New York-based label sees the young designer translating her background in architecture and urban design to fashion, crafting fabulous pieces that are “hugely inspired by the architectural design process of material iteration and building within context lines,” she tells us via email.

“Our sole mission is to create empowering garments for all bodies,” she continues, describing her “future-forward bodywear.”

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#ChromatBABE @huntermcgrady in the #SaldanaSuit- 🗣 AVAILABLE NOW UP TO 3XL 🗣 #SS18Serenity
A post shared by CHROMAT (@chromat) on Mar 30, 2018 at 8:48am PDT

Nearly five years ago, she sent her first curvy models down the runway with an inclusive SS15 collection full of structured statement pieces. However, the response wasn’t quite the one she was hoping for.

“We were so surprised when we took the curve samples to market and they got no response!” she reveals. “None of our retailer partners or wholesale stockists were interested in buying over a size L for their stores.”

Unfortunately, given the company’s small size, “what our retailers order is what goes into production,” so she was forced to look for other ways to pursue inclusivity.

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“Two of my role models growing up were #Beyonce and #Oprah. As a young girl I could see qualities of myself in them and they made me feel as if doing anything I wanted to do was possible. I really admired Oprah's ability to grab an audience's attention whenever she spoke and how much she's fought throughout her childhood. Beyonce was just so mesmerizing me when I was 5 years old. I was infatuated with her and I loved how carefree she was at the time. She owned her look and her spirit felt so free to me. They both inspired me to listen and follow my true self.” - #ChromatBABE @chloevero in #SS18Serenity shot by @anastasiagphoto, hair @bethington_ , makeup @fatimasees, accessories @creepyyeha, styled by @martintordby
A post shared by CHROMAT (@chromat) on Apr 16, 2018 at 4:41am PDT

That’s when McCharen-Tran began “creating custom curve sizing on demand,” expanded her collection up to an XL in her own web shop, and, along the way, managed to gain a whole slew of celebrity support (Laverne Cox is a major fan!). Then, Nordstrom came along.

Back in February, it was revealed that the retail giant had placed a historic, headline-making swimwear order with Chromat, which ran from sizes XS to 3XL. “It’s the first time a retailer has been so supportive of our curve-inclusive mission,” she says before confessing, “This will be the first time we are producing up to 3XL, so I am equally nervous as I am excited about its launch.”

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Crying real tears over @lcchan's unapologetic beauty for @chromat #SS18Serenity
A post shared by BECCA MCCHAREN-TRAN (@beccamccharentran) on Sep 12, 2017 at 7:35pm PDT

Getting it just right involved partnering with “a great factory who is experienced in producing curve sizing for other swim global brands,” the designer explains. “We have worked hard to engineer the grading based on the curve fit tests we’ve been doing over the last five years.” And she’s not planning to stop any time soon! “I am looking forward to receiving important feedback on the fit and feel of our new sizing, so we can continue to improve for our next season!” she gushes.

“The most important message I hope to share with the world is one of acceptance and the celebration of individuality,” she adds. “It sounds so simple, but it’s a daily act of defiance to be yourself when so much of what we see on our screens and in our world is about conforming to unachievable beauty standards.”

Gazing into the future, McCharen-Tran’s dream is simple: “I’m looking forward to the future when diversity and inclusion in fashion isn’t press-worthy; it’s just the norm.” A mission she’s hoping to achieve with a little help from all of her #ChromatBABES who are “bold, unapologetic, and fearless.” Count us in!

What do you think of Chromat’s inclusive designs? Tweet us @BritandCo.

27 Stunning Plus-Size Wedding Dresses Fit For Any Style

Out of every dress a girl wears in her life, the wedding dress really takes the cake (pun intended). Your wedding dress should leave you with memories of pure bliss and happiness — and make you look and feel like a major babe. When you look good, you feel good! Luckily, more and more brands are creating plus-size wedding dress styles that look gorgeous on every shape and size. These plus-size styles are still 100% on trend and ultra fabulous. With these finds for every type of bride, you can have the dress of your dreams!

Plus Size Long Sleeve Wedding Dresses

Stella York Long Sleeve A-Line Wedding Dress ($1,800-2,300)

This dress just screams elegance. The subtle sweetheart neckline adds a gorgeous feminine touch to the overall look, and we could just get lost in the beautiful floral details on its long sleeves.

Azazie Dulce Amor Wedding Dress ($440)

This plus-size style hugs the body in all the right places, so you can show off and feel confident in your curves. It features an open back to enhance a super romantic feel.

Baltic Born Gloria Lace Maxi Dress ($78)

If a form-fitting look is not your thing, then look towards this plus-size flowy maxi wedding dress. Available in sizes up to 3XL, you'll feel absolutely stunning in this comfortable style.

The Dress Outlet Cinderella Divine Flowy Long Sleeve A-Line Wedding Dress ($239)

We adore the wispy look of this chiffon-draped wedding dress. For the more minimalist bride, this dress is available in sizes up to 5XL so you can rock a simpler style.

Plus Size Princess Wedding Dresses

Hera Couture by Katie Young Assandra Curve Dress

Sprinkled with crystals and pearls, this wedding dress ensures that you feel like a real princess! The dress flaunts a deep v-cut back, as well as convenient hidden pockets.

Martina Liana Fit-and-Flare Wedding Dress with Neck Cutout ($2,725-3,225)

The flared shape on this wedding dress lets your figure shine! Plus, this design is super minimal overall, while still being an elegant pick.

Olivia Bottega Plus Size Organza Wedding Dress Cardi ($1,299)

This style leaves the collarbones bare in the best way, leaving you with a confident, feminine feeling for your wedding day. We love the lace-up back detail on the bodice, and of course, you can't miss the long, luxurious train.

Azazie Vendela Wedding Dress ($449)

An off-the-shoulder look always makes us feel beautiful! This plus-size wedding dress, available for you up to size 30, brings some drama with the large ballerina skirt, but still remains modest up top.

David's Bridal Galina Signature Floral Tulle Wedding Dress with Removable Sleeves ($1,199)

The sweetheart neckline and visible boning in this style's bodice really amp up an elegant princess feel for you to flaunt at your wedding! We can just see it looking amazing alongside your ring.

Hera Couture by Katie Young Von Maria Curve Dress

This dress was simply made to make you look drop-dead stunning. With a form-fitting top and slimming details in the bodice, your curves will be displayed like a true work of art!

Watters Wtoo Miles Dress ($1,422-1,517)

This plus-size wedding dress emits a truly effortless look. Why worry about feeling uncomfortable among all the planning that went into your big day? The style has some stretch to it, which allows you to feel super comfortable, yet stylish!

Olivia Bottega Plus Size Jessica Crepe Wedding Dress ($599)

Sometimes less is more, and this plus-size wedding dress proves it. This dress hugs your body to enhance your natural form while remaining a very minimal look! Available in sizes up to size 18.

Plus Size Casual Wedding Dresses

DB Studio One-Shoulder Ruched Back Sheath Wedding Dress ($117)

If you're leaning towards going more casual for your wedding, this one-shoulder look is comfy, but will still make you feel feminine and oh-so adored. Available in sizes up to size 14, this dress will still give you the opportunity to show off some of that beautiful skin!

Paloma Blanca Off The Shoulder Ball Gown Wedding Dress with Draped Bodice ($2,365)

This casual-leaning dress flaunts a lot of draping throughout the design, but it still silhouettes and compliments your midsection, so you can feel fully fitted, dripping in elegance.

DB Studio Lace Chiffon Flutter Sleeve A-Line Wedding Dress ($153)

Available in sizes up to size 14, this comfortable wedding dress boasts some intricate detailing in the bodice, neckline and flutter sleeves. Plus, talk about a super cute and affordable dress option.

Plus Size Boho Wedding Dresses

JJ's House A-Line V-Neck Floor-Length Lace Tulle Wedding Dress with Beading Ruffle Sequins ($216)

This plus-size wedding dress style truly emits a real boho vibe. Detailed florals layered over light tulle leaves you feeling super dreamy for your wedding.

Lulus Duchess Ivory Lace Bell Sleeve Maxi Dress ($149)

The bell sleeves on this dress are giving us a ton of callbacks 70's fashion, and we're here for it. This plus-size design nails the bohemian style, if that's what you're looking for! Available up to size 3XL.

BHLDN Odalis Dress ($1,495)

Fully covered in lace, this dress will make you feel angelic! The sleeves and draping details will especially enhance your wedding day confidence and leave all eyes on you. This style is available in sizes up to size 16.

Bliss Gown A-Line Lace Up Back Sleeveless Boho Wedding Dress ($281)

This wedding dress style hugs your middle, then explodes into three beautiful, lacy skirt tiers to reach for a boho look. Babes up to size 26 can rock this gorgeous pick!

Watters Willowby Clementine Dress ($1,917-2,045)

This plus-size boho wedding dress calls upon aesthetics of the wild West, and feels super wispy and daring. The long tulle train adds a touch of femininity, and is sure to make you feel unstoppable.

Plus Size Lace Wedding Dresses

Azazie Rhodes Wedding Dress ($503)

Fitted with a perfectly cut V-neck detail, lace appliqué, and a wide skirt, this wedding dress is simple yet embodies a visually interesting and intricate style.

DB Studio Scoop Back Boned Bodice Lace Wedding Dress ($594)

We love some exposed boning, and this dress really gives it to us, among tiny floral details. The back plunges down to reveal your back, and hug your sides perfectly. Available in sizes up to size 14.

JJ's House A-Line V-Neck Sweep Train Chiffon Lace Wedding Dress ($230)

The leg slit on this plus-size wedding dress pick will leave you room to reveal a little leg and still stay comfortable throughout your big day. We especially can't get enough of the extensive pearl and lace detail on this dress' bodice and back. Available in sizes up to size 26.

La Femme Lace & Tulle Off-Shoulder Gown ($508)

This champagne-colored wedding dress flaunts a ton of lacing on the top half, then falls in to a classic tulle maxi skirt for ultimate glamour.

Watters Willowby Saros Dress ($1,953-2,083)

We adore how delicate the floral lace details are on this style's sleeves. This pick will hug you comfortably and make the lace stand out.

Morilee Madeline Gardner Heidi Wedding Dress

Find tons of beautiful lace details all throughout this plus-size dress. The hourglass shape that this style embraces is simply made for your curves.

JJ's House A-Line V-Neck Floor-Length Chiffon Lace Wedding Dress ($166)

This pick feels super classic, as it boasts gentle cap sleeves and a detailed waistband. It's simple yet leaves a statement! Available in sizes up to size 26.

Are you getting married soon? Which style caught your attention? For more wedding style inspiration and trends, scroll our Wedding section. Don't forget to sign up for our newsletter for extra content!

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

This post has been updated.

Plus Size

"A Family Affair" Is The Hilarious Summer Rom-Com You Can't Miss

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

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22 Swimsuits That Have Us Excited For Summer 2022

The birds are out and the sun is shining — summer, is that you?! We're *so* close and *so* ready to spend all day everyday outside after a long winter. Whether we're dressing for picnics by the pool or weekends at the beach, this year's swimsuits are all about cool color-blocking, fun textures, and flirty details. Get ready to sip your favorite easy cocktailsby the sea (or sprinkler) in colorful, comfortable swimsuits that'll take you through the long days of summer in style.

V-Neck

J. Crew Long Torso Ruched V-Neck One-Piece ($118)

A little bit of ruching and a whole lot of drama, this suit brings out the inner diva in all of us.

H&M Striped Shaping Swimsuit ($40)

For the minimalist, this nautical suit will look uh-maze-ing with some flowy cloth shorts.

Summersalt Triangle Bikini Top ($50) and Lace-Up High Rise Bottom ($45)

An itty bitty, teeny weeny polka dot bikini is just the way to go, and the combination of the ruffle and the one-shoulder brings this vintage baby into the new age.

Kitty and Vibe Plunge One Piece ($98)

We're obsessed with Kitty and Vibe because not only do they have inclusive sizing, but they also have a sizing metric that takes your hips and your butt into account so that you can get a suit that fits, no matter your booty.

Summersalt Marina Swimsuit ($95)

With ultra-flattering diagonal seaming, built-in cups, and adjustable straps all in one, this suit will become your summer uniform. The small V-neck is great for anyone who wants extra coverage.

Pennington's Longline Triangle Bikini Top with Crochet Tape ($70) and Rib High-Waisted Swim Brief ($50)

The bright yellow of this suit, along with the V-neck and crochet detail, serve as a reminder that when life gives you lemons, make a swimsuit.

Swimsuit Textures

Aerie Jacquard Scoop Bikini Top ($35) and Cheekiest Bottom ($30)

You almost feel like you can work out in this white bikini; it's that comfortable. Plus, the white will make your summer tan pop.

Solid & Striped Spencer One-Piece Swimsuit ($188)

We're all about structured silhouettes and the Barbie-approved color on this swimsuit seals the deal.

VICI Taylor Scoop Swim Top in Lilac ($48) and Cheeky Bottom ($40)

This dreamy purple set is a little bit of sugar, spice, and everything nice.

Beach Riot Mackenzie Top in Watermelon Lemonade ($98) and Heidi Bottom ($98)

Kelly Kapowski called...and she loves this suit. (We do too, btw). It incorporates those old school vibes in a way that's just *chef's kiss*.

Old Navy Smocked Bandeau Longline Bikini Swim Top ($32, was $35) and High-Waisted French-Cut Bottoms ($20)

You'll only see clear skies with this powder blue, smocked suit.

H&M Bandeau Swimsuit ($35)

This fuchsia suit adds just enough detail with an open back and piped texture.

Fun Sleeves

Beach Riot Glitter Poppy Bikini Top ($89, was $118) and Bottom ($89, was $118)

We're swapping our tried-and-true neutral suits for this emerald two-piece because in this case, it is easy being green.

Candi Cap Sleeve One Piece ($72)

The cap sleeves on this swimsuit are fun, while the floral print and scoop neck add some romance.

Jade Swim Evolve One-Shoulder One-Piece Swimsuit ($198)

Minimalist, sleek, and oh-so-chic, this is like the LBD of swimsuits. Audrey Hepburn would be proud.

Old Navy Square-Neck Ruffled Strap French-Cut One-Piece ($45)

Take a walk on the wild side with a square neckline and some fun ruffles.

Luca + Grae Vision Swim Top ($50) and Seashore Swim Bottoms ($44)

We're all about any bikini that can turn into a cute crop top the next time you go for a latte.

Eye-Catching Swimsuit Details

Kitty and Vibe Underwire Top ($58) and High Hip Bottoms ($52)

The tie front on these 'kini bottoms is the perfect detail to go with any of Kitty and Vibe's prints. However we do love how this print reminds us to stop and smell the wildflowers.

& Other Stories Criss-Cross Triangle Bikini Top ($29) and Printed Bikini Briefs ($29)

The criss cross detail gives this super sweet suit some edgy detail.

Zara Asymmetric Swimsuit ($48)

Make a splash with this statement piece that looks like it's straight from the runway.

Out From Under Skinny Dip O-Ring Printed One-Piece Swimsuit ($59, was $82)

With unexpected cutouts and a colorful print, this suit is sure to turn heads.

Penningtons Bikini Top With Knot ($66) and High-Waist Swim Brief ($50)

We're big fans of this keyhole detail and the print, especially the way it's paired in this flattering high waist.

Check out our podcast episode with the iconic Diane von Furstenberg and follow us on Pinterest for more swimsuit inspo!

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

This post has been updated.

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Hey Mamas! Enter To Win A Diaper Genie + A Refill Bundle

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

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Reese Witherspoon's Book Club Just Announced Its Rom-Com Pick For May!

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.