A Paloma Twist You Won't Want to Miss!

half baked harvest frozen blueberry paloma

Half Baked Harvest's Tieghan Gerard recently joined Brit on a Teach Me Something New podcast episode all about her best cooking tips. Now, she's sharing her favorite recipes with us, all originally published on Half Baked Harvest. Take it away Tieghan!

Frozen Blueberry Paloma…tis' the season for fruity, frozen drinks! There's everything to love about a Frozen Blueberry Paloma. Using only a few ingredients, the Frozen Blueberry Paloma is a refreshing and unique twist on a paloma, this drink is the perfect end to a hot summer's day. Mixing fresh grapefruit juice, blueberries, lime juice, and a good splash of tequila; blended up with ice and topped off with sweet blueberries and edible flowers, this frosty drink is so easy to create. Simply mix everything together in a blender for a fun spring cocktail that's perfectly icy, sweet, and so delicious! A salty rim keeps everyone coming back for a second round. A great frosty drink to serve for any spring or summer occasion.

Just before I left for LA, something I was doing really inspired me to create a frozen drink. Ever since I shared my frozen cranberry margaritas over the holidays, I've been obsessed with creating frozen drinks. Something about them is just so fun! I've been wanting to share a new cocktail for weeks, but just have not had the time to put one together. So when I had a bucket full of blueberries in the fridge, something clicked in my head and I immediately knew I wanted to make a blueberry Paloma…but frozen!

Photo by Half Baked Harvest

Easy to Make

This is such a simple drink. First, gather your ingredients. Good tequila, fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, blueberries, and a bit of honey to sweeten things up. You'll also need some salt for the rim because no Paloma is complete without a salted rim.

Find yourself a blender. Grab lots of ice, add everything in, and then blend, blend, blend.

Pour into your pretty salty rimmed glass. And drink up! SIMPLE, right? And I love the pretty blue, purple color. It's perfect for both spring and summer!

Want to be extra? I do!

For a sweet and springy drink, I love finishing with edible flowers. Completely optional, but they add a nice "springy" touch to each drink. I order mine online through Gourmet Sweet Botanicals. But you can also pick them up in most grocery stores these days too!

The best part about this drink? It takes only minutes to make but always turns out looking so impressive and extra pretty with its dark reddish-purple hue. If you're hosting your family and friends for a summer cookout, I'd plan to make a batch or two. Everyone will love this frosty drink!

Photo by Half Baked Harvest


Frozen Blueberry Paloma

Prep Time: 10 MINUTES

Total Time: 10 MINUTES

Servings: 8

Calories Per Serving: 183 kcal

Nutritional information is only an estimate. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed.

Ingredients

  • kosher salt and flaky sea salt
  • 1 1/2 cups silver tequila
  • 1 1/2 cups grapefruit juice
  • 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
  • 3/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 1/4-1/2 cup honey, use more or less to your taste
  • 2-3 cups ice

Instructions

  1. Rim each glass in salt.
  2. In a blender, combine the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, blueberries, and honey. Add the ice and blend until slushy. Pour into your prepared glasses. Garnish with a couple of blueberries or a grapefruit wedge...or even an edible flower...and enjoy!

This recipe was originally published on Half Baked Harvest.

Check out our Teach Me Something Newpodcast episode with Half Baked Harvest's Tieghan Gerard for more food inspo.

Share your sweet creations with us @BritandCo and tag @HalfBakedHarvest!


All made in one bowl, with pantry staple ingredients, super quick to mix up, healthy, and SO DELICIOUS! Yes, that pretty much sums up this mini banana bread mug cake, and it's the perfect individual little cake to bake up this weekend. With over-ripe bananas, good honey, and your favorite chocolate bar, this is sure to become your favorite banana bread in minutes. Perfect for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or a late-night dessert.

When you're looking for something sweet, but you still need something healthy and quick to bake up? Make these cute little mug cakes.

Half Baked Harvest

The quick details.

This banana bread cake comes together in five minutes tops, so the details are pretty darn quick.

Start with your wet ingredients. I like to use coconut oil for these cakes. Melt it in the microwave in a microwave-safe bowl. Once melted, add a very overripe banana and give it a good mashing with a fork. The key to any sweet banana recipe is to use bananas that are way past their prime and pretty black all over. Black bananas create the best sweet recipes due to their natural amount of sweetness.

When you have the banana all mashed up, whisk in a squeeze of honey, a single egg, and a splash of vanilla. I personally like to use honey as my sweetener as I've found it creates a perfectly soft, tender, and moist banana bread cake. But maple syrup works well too.

Once the wet ingredients are combined. Stir in the flour, baking soda, a pinch of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. At this point, the cake is almost ready for "baking".

Half Baked Harvest

But I have a couple of secrets.

First, chocolate chunks…and a generous helping too. The chunks are a must and create the most luscious banana mug cake. You will fold them into the batter as the final ingredient. As the cake bakes, the chocolate sinks in, melting as it sinks. It leaves you with a puddle of warm melted chocolate throughout your cake. And with every bite, a little of that melted chocolate is scooped up.

And it is delicious.

Second, instead of mixing the batter in the mug you plan to "bake" in, mix the batter up in a small bowl, then transfer to a microwave-safe mug. Yes, it's one additional dish to dirty. However, I found this ensures that the batter is more easily mixed up and in turn bakes up nicer too.

But the real key to success?

Eat this mug of banana bread warm, just after cooking. This isn't a cake you want to eat leftover, it's meant as a quick chocolate fix. It should be eaten right away and preferably with a small pat of butter, a drizzle of honey, and a sprinkling of sea salt on top. Nothing is better.

I will say that that every microwave is different, so the cooking time is a little tricky. That said, I tested this on two different microwaves and found two minutes to be just the right amount of time. You may need to adjust slightly by fifteen seconds, give or take.

Soo, have I convinced you that you need a banana bread mug cake in your life tonight?

This is the best afternoon pick me up…warm after-dinner dessert…or late-night treat while cozied up by the fire. AND if you happen to have a snowy weekend in the forecast, you really need to bake this up. It's great any day, but it's best enjoyed on the coldest of days.

How To Make Your Own Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe

Half Baked Harvest

INGREDIENTS

  • 1 medium overly ripe banana, mashed (about 1/3 cup mashed)
  • 1 tablespoon melted coconut oil (or butter)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup whole wheat pastry flour, or all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 cup semi-sweet or dark chocolate chunks

Half Baked Harvest

INSTRUCTIONS

  1. In a bowl, stir together the mashed bananas, coconut oil, honey, egg, and vanilla until combined. Add the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, mix until just combined. Fold in the chocolate chunks.
  2. Pour the batter into a (10-12 ounce) microwave-safe mug. Microwave on full power for 1 minute and 35 seconds to 2 minutes (I always do 1 minute 35 seconds, but it's better to under "bake"). Eat warm with a smear of butter and a drizzle of honey (you should do this!). Enjoy!

RECIPE NOTES

To Oven Bake: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 2 cup oven safe ramekin/mug or 2 muffin tins. Add the batter and bake 22-25 minutes.

Microwave: every microwave is very different, so results may vary slightly. I have a 1200 watt microwave and found 2 minutes to be the perfect cooking time. You may need to cook 1 minute 45 seconds or 2 minutes 15 seconds. Start with 2 minutes.

Want more food inspo like this banana bread recipe? Check out Tieghan Gerard of Half Baked Harvest on Teach Me Something New with Brit Morin!

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

You mastered the margarita-themed party back in the day, and you were the first of your friends to try an avocado margarita, so you're no stranger to delicious tequila drinks. In honor of National Tequila Day on July 24, we rounded up our favorite tequila cocktails and drink recipes that use the agave-based liquor.

If you're looking for a new boozy bev recipe, or simply want to brush up on an old classic (gotta love a margarita), keep reading, because these tequila cocktails are here to make your celebration even happier.

These Tequila Cocktails Are Too Delicious To Pass Up

Prickly Pear Margaritas

Yes, prickly pears are actually prickly (be careful). Their melon-y flavor makes them ideal for mixing. In this marg, the juice is reduced into a syrup which sweetens the sip. (via Brit + Co.)

Strawberry Jalapeño Margarita

There’s a lot of color (and flavor!) in this pretty little sipper. The sweetness of the strawberry is the ideal partner for spicy jalapeño. (via Brit + Co.)

Boozy Pineapple and Lime Slushy

The slushy mix is pre-made and frozen into ice cube trays for convenience, so all you have to do is throw everything in the blender at the last minute. (via Brit + Co.)

Galactic Margarita

If you find yourself enjoying a classic margarita a little too often, switch it up with this colorful version! It makes a top contender for sci-fi movie nights... or just because. (via Brit + Co.)

Key Lime Beergaritas

A hoppy topper gets the real party started with these tequila cocktails. (via Brit + Co.)

Frozen Watermelon Mint Margaritas

These tequila cocktails will hydrate you while also getting you *a little* tipsy – as a treat. (via Brit + Co.)

Tequila Jell-O Shots

A shot of tequila has never gone down so smoothly. Don’t forget to sprinkle on the coarse salt! (via Brit + Co.)

Jalapeño-Infused Tequila Cocktail

If you’ve never tried your hand at infusing your own liquor, know that it’s much easier than it looks. Plus, the combinations are *endless* once you’ve got this in your arsenal. (via Brit + Co.)

Watermelon Margarita Poptails

A popsicle cocktail is double trouble as it’s a dessert and drink in one. (via Brit + Co.)

Watermelon Jelly Margaritas

With a pink Himalayan salt rim and a garnish of fresh fruit, this marg undoubtedly earns a spot at your next girl's get-together. (via Brit + Co.)

Spiced Paloma

These gorgeous tequila cocktails bring the heat, chili garnish included. (via Don Julio / Brit + Co.)

Rosé Paloma Tequila Drink

Alright – this recipe calls for mezcal, another agave-based liquor, but it could easily be substituted for a golden Reposado tequila. (via Brit + Co.)

Pineapple Margaritas

Make this twist on a classic margarita for your festivities. It has an acidic, tropical finish, plus it comes in a literal pineapple. (via Brit + Co.)

Frozen Watermelon Margarita Push-Pop

This ’90s staple is having *a moment* once again. Freeze these babies at home to relive all the nostalgia, and enjoy them poolside for the perfect summer treat. (via Brit + Co.)

Golden Ratio Margarita

The key to the best version of the classic marg is this 2-1-1 ratio right here. (via Brit + Co.)

Ginger Mint Julep Tequila Cocktail Drink

If you’re thinking this is a snazzier version of a classic mule and mojito combo, then you’re right. The ginger and mint give it the right amount of kick. (via Brit + Co.)

Passion Fruit Champagne Margarita

Fruity cocktail recipes are begging to be sipped on at all of your late-summer barbecue parties. And you could say we're passionate about this passion fruit cocktail ;). (via Brit + Co.)

Golden Ratio Punch

Bartending at parties can be a thing of the past if you know how to whip up a pitcher full of punch, made with the right ratios. (via Brit + Co.)

Avo-Keto Margarita

Why reserve avocado for guac when you can whirl it up with tequila for a satisfying, refreshing drink? (via Don Julio)

Spicy Grapefruit Margarita

A little spice never hurt anyone. This marg gets delicately garnished in a Tajin and lime rim for added flavor. (via The Edgy Veg)

Key Lime Margarita

Photo via Gentyl & Hyers

Citrus-based drinks are basically mandatory when the weather is sweltering. This frozen key lime marg is like an adult slushie. (via Lemonade With Zest)

Fresh Frozen Pineapple Margaritas

There's no better vibe than when you mix a warm summer night and a frozen marg. Prep these tequila cocktails that get whipped up using frozen fruit! (via Amanda Wilens)

Tequila Mule

This classic tequila infusion combines tangy ginger beer and lime for an ultra-refreshing sip. Plus – the mug is the best part. (via Cozy Cravings)

Summertime Rose Tequila Sangria

Floral flavors rock, especially during the warmer months. These tequila cocktails (sangria-inspired) is sure to be your go-to companion for patio nights with the fam. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Black Cherry Margarita

Of all the different twists on the margarita, this black cherry has to be our fave. It's perfectly tart and packs a punch every time. (via Salt & Lavender)

More Tequila Drinks (Including Recipes!)

Spicy Maria

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila or mezcal
  • 3 dashes Tabasco
  • 1 dash liquid smoke
  • 8 oz Q Bloody Mary Mix
  • Tajin
  • 1 slice raw Jalapeño

Instructions:

  1. Salt the rim of a pint glass and build the drink. Stir gently before garnishing and serving.
Recipe and image courtesy of Q Mixers.

​Spiked Snow Cones

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients and pour into a container that has a small pointed spout (like a ketchup dispenser). Fill snow cone up with ice using an ice cream scoop. Pack the ice to form rounded heap at top (use your palm if need be). Drizzle the cocktail around the sides of the shaved ice until cone is full, then drizzle a small amount on top for color.
  2. Tip: Do not pour the drink directly on top of the ice, mound will collapse. Key is to drizzle around the sides then drizzle small amount on top for color.
Recipe and image courtesy of 21 Seeds.

Frozen Mango-Ritas

Ingredients (serves 4):

  • 6 oz 21 Seeds Valencia Orange Tequila
  • 2 cups frozen mango
  • 2 cups ice
  • ½ oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz simple syrup mixed with 2 oz of water

Instructions:

  1. Place all ingredients except mango, starting with liquids, in a blender. Blend until smooth. Then add the mango. Blend until smooth.
  2. Rub rim of glasses with fresh lime and dip into Tajin Clasico seasoning salt. Garnish with fresh mint and slice of lime. Serve!

Recipe and image courtesy of 21 Seeds.

Watermelon Spritz Tequila Drink

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz 21 Seeds Grapefruit Hibiscus Tequila
  • 2 oz fresh watermelon juice
  • 2 oz club soda

Instructions:

  1. Place all ingredients except club soda into a shaker with ice. Shake for 30 seconds (totally underrated step, and just *makes* the cocktail), pour into a glass filled with ice, and top with 2 oz club soda.

Recipe and image courtesy of 21 Seeds.

Hibiscus Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Casa Viejo Blanco tequila
  • 1 oz hibiscus tea
  • 0.75 oz lime
  • 0.5 oz agave

Instructions:

  1. Shake all ingredients and double strain.
  2. Serve in a double rocks glass and garnish with a lime wheel.

Recipe and image courtesy of Sereneco.

The Two Fridas

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz La Gritona Reposado
  • 0.75 oz Ilegal Mezcal
  • 0.5 oz Pineau de Charentes Rouge
  • 0.25 oz Cap Corse Blanc
  • 0.25 oz Creme de Cassis
  • Tsp Bigallet Thym
  • Dash Saline Solution

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass, add ice and stir until chilled and diluted.
  2. Serve up in a coupe and garnish with a sprig of candied thyme, if desired.
  3. To make candied thyme toast 2 cups of thyme sprigs in a saucepan until aromatic, cover with 2 cups water and 1 cup sugar, add the zest of 1 orange and 2 tbsps black sugar.
  4. Reduce while stirring until candy sets.
  5. Spread on wax paper on a cooking sheet and set in a refrigerator overnight to cure.
Recipe and image courtesy of Canary Club.

​Round Barn’s Peach and Raspberry Margarita Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz Round Barn's Blue Flame Agave (or another blanco tequila)
  • 1.5 oz triple sec
  • 1 oz sour mix
  • Top with Round Barn's Peach Sangria and Raspberry Lemonade Sangria
  • Fresh peaches and raspberries
  • Ice

Instructions:

  1. Pour agave, triple sec, sour mix, with peach slices and raspberries into a shaker filled with ice, and shake vigorously.
  2. Pour contents into a glass.
  3. Top with Sangrias.

Recipe and image courtesy of Round Barn.

​Hot Lava

Ingredients:

  • 1oz blanco tequila
  • 1/2 oz Mata Bianco Vermouth (Spanish Vermouth)
  • 1/2 oz Empirical Spirits Ayuuk (Pasilla Chili Distillate)
  • 3 dashes toasted sesame tincture
  • 3/4 oz pineapple juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz salted hot honey syrup

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a shaker, shake, and pour in your favorite glass.

Recipe and image courtesy of Wiggle Room.

Find more food recipes and ideas for more tequila drinks on our Pinterest page! Join our newsletter for weekly inspiration or sign up for a cooking or baking class on B+C Classes.

This post has been updated.

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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