For avid readers like the BookTrib team, everywhere is the best place and anytime is the best time to get lost in a book. Don’t believe us? Here are some of our picks for your most (and maybe one of your least) favorite places to read.
The Clan of the Cave Bear by Jean M. Auel
When you’re in bed, supposed to be sleeping:
It may be an oldie, but oh what a goodie! The Clan of the Cave Bear is the first book in a historical fiction series set during the Ice Age. It’s the epitome of feral, but you’ll fall in love with Ayla, the protagonist, and her turbulent life story. Just get ready to have a few sleepless nights as you convince yourself to finish “just one more chapter” … and maybe have the next book in the series nearby, just in case.
—Monique
The Woman in Cabin 10 by Ruth Ware
When you’re at the beach or poolside:
Perfect beach/pool read! It’s gripping, escapist, and not overly demanding — perfect for lounging with a drink in hand while the waves crash. Can’t wait to see the movie!
—Kendall
I Am You by Victoria Redel
When you’re in a cafe:
Trying to cultivate the vibe of a chic hipster who drinks cappuccinos and journals in a Moleskine notebook? This sumptuous book cover gives off the airs of an effortlessly trendy reader.
I Am You bleeds outside of genres like an inkspill spreading across paper; part codependent/obsessive lesbian romance, part historical fiction, part exploration of Amsterdam’s art scene in the 1600s. This fascinating read will transport you from your uncomfortable wooden chair and even block out the shriek of a high-pressure espresso machine. Just make sure to look up from the page every so often to sip your drink before it goes cold.
—Cammy
If You’re Seeing This It’s Meant For You by Leigh Stein
When you’re on a turbulent airplane:
This book was hilarious and mysterious enough to keep my attention during a harrowing “I’m-on-a-tiny-plane-experiencing-turbulence-and-the-flight-attendant-appears-to-be-a-minor” scenario a few weeks back.
If I’m going down, I want to die the way I lived: laughing and reflecting on toxic internet culture.
—Camryn
My Heart is a Chainsaw by Stephen Graham Jones
When you’re by the campfire, wrapped in a blanket with a steaming cup of cider:
If you spook easily, you might want to read this inside.
This was the first SGJ book I ever picked up and what a first impression it was!
Set in a small woodland town in Idaho, the first of the Indian Lake trilogy follows protagonist, Jade, as she uses her slasher film expertise to navigate a stream of horrific (and possibly supernatural) murders.
Cozy and creepy at the same time!
—Natalie
The Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells
On your daily walk:
Forget the TV show. The original novellas and one novel that makes up the Murderbot Diaries gives our beloved android more nuance and dimension, and the audiobook is an immersive treat. You’ll get additional steps in with little effort as you try to get to the end of just one more chapter.
—JeriAnn
Herculine by Grace Byron
When you’re in the bath, an autumnal candle lit, and a 888 hz divine frequency manifestation YouTube track in the background:
You’re missing out on girls’ night this weekend to devour a slow-burn turned horror spiral narrative to distract you from the ever present looming demons of your own day-to-day. Or, it’s October and you want a horror novel that reflects the modern experience of trauma bonding within trans communities, plus a slice of cultish demonism strewn in. Either way, you’ll want a relaxing space (so you don’t start overthinking the dark matter looming in the corner)…
—Olivia