Looking for the best September book club picks? We’ve curated a list of top choices that promise engaging discussions and unforgettable reads. These books are perfect for your club this month, from thrilling mysteries to deeply emotional narratives and engaging historical fiction. Some of the picks are also Reese's Book Club picks, known for their strong female characters and engaging themes.
This month’s top picks feature a mix of gripping mysteries and poignant narratives focusing on family dynamics and personal struggles.
Angie Kim’s novels, including Amazing Grace Adams and Happiness Falls, provide humorous yet deep explorations of identity and family secrets.
The cozy mystery genre shines this fall with engaging titles perfect for seasonal reading and book club discussions.
| Book Title | Author | Genre | Themes | Why It's a Great Pick |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mother Daughter Murder Night | Nina Simon | Cozy Mystery | Family Dynamics, Mystery | Engaging plot, strong female characters, multi-generational relationships. |
| Amazing Grace Adams | Angie Kim | Humorous Fiction | Midlife Crisis, Identity, Family | Relatable midlife challenges, humor, emotional depth. |
| Happiness Falls | Angie Kim | Literary Fiction | Family Secrets, Communication | Philosophical insights, exploration of family dynamics. |
| Northern Spy | Flynn Berry | Political Thriller | Espionage, Family Loyalty | High suspense, political intrigue, emotional complexity. |
| Where the Crawdads Sing | Delia Owens | Historical Fiction | Survival, Nature, Social Issues | Captivating mystery, lyrical writing, deep emotional impact. |
Nina Simon’s debut novel, “Mother Daughter Murder Night,” is a fun and gripping whodunit that you won’t want to put down. The story centers around a grandmother, a mother, and a young woman who unite to solve a murder in their small coastal town. It all begins when Jack, the teenage granddaughter, discovers a dead body during a kayaking trip, making her a suspect in a murder case.
What makes this book truly special is the dynamic between the grandmother, mother, and daughter as they navigate their own complex relationships while trying to uncover the truth. The tension of the murder investigation is perfectly balanced with the emotional depth of their familial bonds. Each character must confront their personal issues, adding layers of intrigue and heart to this thrilling page-turner.
Set against a cozy mystery, “Mother Daughter Murder Night” is not just a story about solving a crime; it’s about the strength and resilience of women across generations. It’s a perfect pick for anyone who loves a thrilling page-turner with a strong emotional core.
“Amazing Grace Adams” by Angie Kim is a beautiful book that offers a humorous yet poignant look at the life of its protagonist, Grace Adams. Grace is an everywoman facing the challenges of midlife, specifically during her perimenopausal phase at age forty-five. The narrative kicks off with Grace making an impulsive decision to abandon her car in traffic, a metaphor for her breaking point in dealing with personal and familial struggles.
As Grace reflects on her past, she recalls a time when she was seen as ‘amazing’ by her family, adding a layer of nostalgia and longing to the story. This captivating story explores themes of rediscovering one’s identity and worth in Grace’s life, making it an unforgettable story and inspiring read for anyone navigating midlife, especially as many wives face mid age.
Jenna Bush Hager described “Amazing Grace Adams” as a humorous take on marriage and motherhood, making it a great pick for book clubs looking for a blend of laughter and deep emotional resonance. Angie Kim, known for her previous work “Miracle Creek,” once again delivers an engaging and thought-provoking narrative.
In “Happiness Falls,” Angie Kim weaves a beautiful book exploring Adam Parson's disappearance during a hike, leading his family to confront hidden truths about him. The story is narrated by Mia, Adam’s 20-year-old daughter, who offers a reflective and deeply philosophical perspective on her father’s absence.
Mia’s character is intelligent and insightful, providing readers with a rich tapestry of thoughts on philosophy, music, and culture. This narrative delves into complex themes of communication, family secrets, and the quest for understanding, making “Happiness Falls” a compelling read for those who appreciate a thought-provoking and emotionally charged story.
“Northern Spy” by Flynn Berry is a gripping historical fiction novel set in post-conflict Northern Ireland, where Tessa Daly, a BBC news editor, discovers her sister Marian’s involvement with the IRA. Initially believed to be kidnapped, Marian is revealed to be both an IRA member and an informant for MI5, adding layers of complexity to the narrative.
Tessa finds herself in a moral quandary as she navigates her sister’s dangerous world while trying to protect her son. The book’s thrilling and suspenseful storytelling has earned it a spot on notable bestseller lists, making it a must-read for fans of political intrigue and family drama.
“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens is a Reese’s Book Club pick that has captivated readers worldwide. The story follows Kya Clark, a young girl who learns to survive on her own in the marshes of North Carolina after being abandoned by her family. Known as the ‘Marsh Girl,’ Kya faces prejudice and isolation from the townspeople, adding a layer of social commentary to her story.
The narrative alternates between Kya’s coming-of-age journey and the investigation into Chase Andrews's murder, creating a captivating story that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Themes of survival, love, and the human connection to nature are beautifully woven throughout the book, making it a thought-provoking and emotional read.
As a debut novel, “Where the Crawdads Sing” has earned its place as a modern classic. Its lyrical prose and compelling characters resonate with readers. It’s a perfect pick for book clubs looking for a story that sparks deep discussions and emotional engagement.
Reese’s Book Club has a knack for selecting titles that resonate deeply with readers, and September’s picks are no exception. Leading the pack is “Mother Daughter Murder Night” by Nina Simon, a fun and gripping whodunit that explores the dynamics of a grandmother-mother-daughter trio as they solve a murder mystery in their coastal town.
These selections promise engaging narratives and stimulating discussions, perfect for book club meetings. With high ratings and rave reviews, Reese’s Book Club pick for September will keep readers hooked from start to finish.
The GMA Book Club is known for its diverse and compelling selections, and September’s lineup is no different. “Where There Was Fire” by John Manuel Arias takes readers to Costa Rica, exploring a tragic family event intertwined with themes of love and loss over generations.
Another standout is “Bright Young Women” by Jessica Knoll, a thrilling tale that intertwines the lives of sorority sisters with a serial killer’s rampage. These captivating stories, rich with emotional depth and suspense, make perfect book club picks this month.
Jenna Bush Hager’s September selections delve into the heart of strong relationships and personal crises. One notable pick is “Mother Daughter Murder Night” by Nina Simon, reflecting on societal pressures and the strength of the mother-daughter bond.
Etaf Rum’s “Evil Eye” offers insight into cultural expectations and personal experiences, making it a thought-provoking read. These selections highlight how connections and crises shape our lives, offering rich material for book club discussions.
Looking for a book that perfectly matches your book club’s vibe this September? Whether your group loves suspenseful mysteries, heartfelt tales of self-discovery, or deep philosophical discussions, we’ve got you covered.
Our "Reading Experience and Club Recommendations" table below pairs each book with the ideal reading experience and fun activities to elevate your next gathering. Dive in and find your perfect book club pick!
| Book Title | Reading Experience | Ideal For | Club Meeting Activities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mother Daughter Murder Night | Suspenseful, Character-Driven, Light Mystery | Fans of mysteries with strong female leads | Solve a mystery game, discuss family dynamics across generations. |
| Amazing Grace Adams | Humorous, Emotional, Relatable | Readers interested in life challenges and humor | Share personal stories related to midlife changes, light-hearted activities. |
| Happiness Falls | Reflective, Thought-Provoking, Deep | Groups who enjoy philosophical discussions | Discuss family secrets and their impacts, explore philosophical questions raised. |
| Northern Spy | Intense, Fast-Paced, Suspenseful | Thrill seekers, political drama enthusiasts | Debate ethical dilemmas presented in the book, explore political history of Northern Ireland. |
| Where the Crawdads Sing | Emotional, Engrossing, Nature-Centric | Fans of deep, character-driven stories with mystery | Nature-themed meeting, discuss themes of survival and isolation, nature walk if possible. |
Choosing the right book can turn your book club into a lively, memorable experience. Use our curated table to find the perfect match for your club’s mood, whether it's a thrilling mystery or a reflective family drama. Gather your readers, pick a book, and enjoy an unforgettable meeting filled with great discussions and connections.
Debut novels often bring fresh voices and unique narratives to the literary world. Gina Chung’s “Sea Change” immerses readers in an original and emotional narrative. At the same time, New York Times bestselling author Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah’s “Chain Gang All Stars” is celebrated for its literary significance.
Rita Chang-Eppig’s “Deep as the Sky, Red as the Sea” features a captivating Chinese pirate queen and offers a thrilling and fast-paced adventure. These debut novels entertain and provide new perspectives and deep emotional connections, making them must-reads for any book lover.
Family secrets and mysteries offer a profound exploration of emotional complexities within relationships. “Happiness Falls” by Angie Kim reveals a gripping family drama centered on a father’s disappearance and the hidden truths that come to light.
“The Family Upstairs” by Lisa Jewell features a young woman uncovering her family’s dark past linked to a mysterious crime, adding layers of suspense and intrigue. These unforgettable stories delve into the hidden depths of family dynamics, making them perfect for book clubs.
As the weather cools, cozy mysteries provide the perfect reading escape. “No Parm No Foul” by Linda Reilly features a grilled cheese competition in Vermont, where a heated argument leads to a murder, blending seasonal themes with engaging intrigue.
The inviting atmosphere of autumn festivals and the unique plots of cozy mysteries make them ideal for book club discussions during the fall season.
Revisiting vintage classics is a wonderful way to embrace the fall season. Timeless works like “Frankenstein” and “Rebecca” offer rich thematic explorations and atmospheric settings perfect for autumn reading.
These books provide literary enjoyment and evoke fall's cozy and introspective spirit, making them perfect additions to any reader’s list. For those looking to dive even deeper into timeless narratives, consider browsing the Classic Book Collection at Reading Vintage. Their curated selection of vintage classics offers rich thematic explorations and atmospheric settings perfect for autumn reading.
September’s book club picks offer diverse narratives, from gripping mysteries to heartfelt dramas. Each book provides unique insights into the complexities of human relationships and personal growth, making them perfect for engaging discussions.
I recommend a reading log to track the books you love and didn't love. The Track the Books You Love Did Not Finishdigital download also has a printable Notes Page. Rate and Review the books you are reading. You can add this to Your Reading Planner. This download is sent to you as a PDF file in two sizes: Letters A-5. It is an Instant Download that is easily printed or downloaded to your digital reading planner.
So, whether you’re gathered with friends or enjoying solo reading time, these selections will surely enrich your literary journey. Happy reading!
"Mother Daughter Murder Night" is a captivating whodunit where a grandmother, mother, and daughter team up to solve a murder mystery in a coastal town. You'll definitely be hooked by their dynamic and the twists in the story!
"Amazing Grace Adams" is a great book club pick because it humorously and poignantly tackles midlife challenges, making it relatable and sparking meaningful discussions. You'll find plenty to connect with and reflect on together!
"Happiness Falls" by Angie Kim stands out for its deep exploration of family secrets and communication, seen through the poignant reflections of a daughter. This unique perspective adds a compelling layer to the storytelling.
Absolutely! Check out "Sea Change" by Gina Chung and "Chain Gang All Stars" by Nana Kwame Adjei-Brenyah—they're getting a lot of buzz this September.
If you're looking for a cozy mystery this fall, "No Parm No Foul" by Linda Reilly is a fun pick, as it revolves around a murder during a grilled cheese competition. Perfect for those chilly evenings!
Author Bio: Pam of Reading Vintage
Pam, the heart behind Reading Vintage, brings classic literature's charm and nostalgia to readers everywhere. Based in Michigan's Great Lakes Bay Region, she curates a unique collection of vintage books, each a gateway to the past.
Through her blog, Pam shares her love for vintage reads, offering tips on collecting, caring for, and enjoying these timeless treasures. When not hunting for rare books or writing, Pam fosters a community of readers who cherish the magic of old books. Her mission: to keep vintage literature alive, one book at a time.
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