From classics like Pride and Prejudice to modern novels that include a little murder and mayhem, this is your go-to list to find a few new reads. I will be posting a new round of suggestions every week, so if you have any recommendations, I’d love for you to comment down below!

First up is Dread Nation by Justina Ireland: You know things are bad when the country is split in two over the issue of slavery, but when dead soldiers begin rising from their graves in the middle of battle, that’s a whole other story. Jane McKeene was born into this zombie infested world and must fight not only to stay alive, but also to preserve her dignity against the racism that somehow still permeates society. Pick up this book to follow Jane’s journey as she clashes with the dead while staying true to herself and her family — and then find the sequel, which is just as thrilling!

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: While considered a shorter read, this novel still packs a punch for the reader. It details Nick Carraway’s account of his strange adventure in Long Island, on the West Egg, where he re-unites with a relative, Daisy Buchanan, her husband, and an odd neighbor by the name of Jay Gatsby. It’s not long before secret histories are unearthed, declarations of love shatter the peaceful atmosphere, and misfortunes arise. But, as you savor the last heart wrenching pages, I would recommend not watching the movie (I have heard that other critics disliked it greatly!)

Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson: When Stevie Bell is given the opportunity to attend Ellingham Academy in Vermont, she jumps at the chance — not only is the school one of the most prestigious in the country, but it also hides a dark past which Stevie is determined to piece together. A cold case like no other, Stevie resolves to find out what happened to Albert Ellingham’s wife and daughter, who were kidnapped in 1936 and later found dead; the only clue to the killer was a note, signed by ‘Truly Devious’. In the present day, however, Stevie must do little to arouse suspicion, especially when ‘Truly Devious’ returns. As you finish, keep your eyes peeled for The Vanishing Stair and The Hand on the Wall, which conclude the trilogy in an epic finale. If you enjoy a good mystery, this trilogy is for you!

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen: When I first picked this book up, I was intimidated by the flowery, old english that spanned almost 400 pages, yet just by the first line, I was enthralled: “It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.” I came to fall in love with Elizabeth Bennett, the main character, and her four, unique sisters, whose mother attempts to interfere in their romantic lives. Elizabeth herself encounters the eccentric, rich, and prideful Mr. Darcy, whom she despises at first sight. Over the course of the book, however, feelings change, tragedies unfold, and fate intervenes. Elizabeth must not only learn to forgive the flaws of others, but also accept her own, blemished nature. 

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