Discover the essential literary treasures in our “Wednesday Wisdom” Uncover a world of captivating stories, profound insights, and timeless wisdom as we unveil a curated collection of must-read books that will inspire, enlighten, and leave an indelible mark on your mind.

Pedro & Daniel byFederico Erebia

Pedro and Daniel, Mexican American brothers growing up in 1970s Ohio, face unique challenges. Their mother resents Pedro’s resemblance to their darker-skinned father and Daniel’s interest in dolls, while neither boy conforms to traditional expectations by playing sports. Both are gay and neurodivergent, sharing similarities yet differing in their struggles, dreams, and approach to life.

“Pedro & Daniel” is an intimate and sweeping novel that traces their journey from childhood through adolescence and into adulthood. Their unbreakable bond withstands the trials of an abusive home, coming out, navigating first loves and jobs, and the devastating impact of the AIDS pandemic. This coming-of-age tale stands apart from the rest, offering a vibrant mix of joy and resilience in the face of adversity. Together, they confront one evil after another, with Pedro enduring more at home while Daniel becomes a target for external malevolence.

These two brothers share a common identity as gay, neurodivergent Latinos who cherish their Mexican heritage and culture.

Shanghai Immortal by A.Y. Chao

In this vibrant adult fantasy debut, Chinese deities and demons romp through jazz age Shanghai. Lady Jing, a spirited and unique individual, was pawned by her mother to the King of Hell as a child. A blend of vampire and hulijing fox-spirit, she exudes attitude. For the past ninety years, she has been at the King’s beck and call, evading the spiteful courtiers and struggling to control her fiery temper. When she overhears their scheme to steal a precious dragon pearl, Jing seizes the opportunity to expose them once and for all. Assisted by a kind mortal entrusted with establishing the Central Bank of Hell, Jing embarks on a thrilling quest for information, venturing through Hell and mortal Shanghai. However, her mischievous actions endanger the mortal, forcing her to choose between seeking retribution for her pride or embracing a chance at tenderness, and maybe even love.

The First Bright Thing by J.R. Dawson

If you were aware of the darkness that awaits tomorrow, how would you seize today? Rin, also known as the Ringmaster among her closest companions, possesses the ability to effortlessly leap between different moments in time, much like her wife Odette soars through the air on the trapeze. The circus they lead, named the Circus of the Fantasticals, serves as a rare refuge and sanctuary for magical misfits and outcasts known as Sparks. Amidst the aftermath of World War I, Rin and her troupe embark on a journey through the Midwest, bestowing a single night of enchantment and solace upon all who enter their grand Big Top. However, Rin faces threats from all directions.

The impending war, perceptible to the Sparks, looms over their show and everyone involved. Additionally, Rin’s ominous past inches closer each day, manifesting as a menacing shadow she cannot fully elude. It takes the form of another circus, draped in midnight-black tents, led by a ringmaster wielding a perilous power. What Rin’s circus possesses is coveted by this relentless pursuer, who will stop at nothing until it becomes his own.

She Started It by Sian Gilbert

Annabel, Esther, Tanya, and Chloe, childhood best friends, find themselves unexpectedly invited to an extravagant bachelorette party by their long-lost friend, Poppy Greer. Despite their adult lives taking different paths, the bonds of shared secrets still hold them together. Poppy’s Instagram pictures reveal her newfound success and wealth, piquing their curiosity. Who could resist a luxurious, all-expenses-paid trip to a private island in the Bahamas?

The opulent first-class flight and lavish island accommodations live up to their expectations, even though the island turns out to be more secluded than they imagined, devoid of cell service and other guests. As they delve deeper into their reunion, they realize they have underestimated both Poppy and each other. In the midst of the tropical paradise, their deepest secrets unravel, transforming the idyllic adventure into a terrifying nightmare.With its relentless twists, astute observations, and deliciously cutting remarks, She Started It promises to keep readers on the edge of their seats until the shocking finale.

Fatima Tate Takes the Cake by Khadijah VanBrakle

Seventeen-year-old Fatima Tate defies her conservative parents’ wishes as she pursues her dream of becoming a baker. Her life revolves around drives with her best friend Zaynab, mosque services, family gatherings, and volunteering at a soup kitchen while perfecting her dough recipe. College worries also fill her mind. Everything changes when she meets Raheem, a charming university student. Despite the disapproval she knows her parents would have, Fatima keeps their relationship hidden. Suddenly, both sets of parents arrange their marriage, shattering Fatima’s fairytale expectations. As soon as the ring is on her finger, Raheem’s charm transforms into control and manipulation.

Determined to break free, Fatima must confront Raheem’s threats of exposing their premarital intimacy, which could destroy her family’s reputation within their close-knit Muslim community. To shape her own destiny, Fatima embraces her body, makes independent choices, and takes control of her future. Drawing inspiration from Elizabeth Acevedo’s authentic storytelling and Ibi Zoboi’s skillful portrayal of social dynamics, FATIMA TATE TAKES THE CAKE empowers young Black Muslim women, giving them a much-needed voice in a compelling coming-of-age tale.

Savage Hearts by Eva Ashwood

The heart-pounding finale of the Filthy Wicked Psychos series…

Warning: Contains spoilers for previous books. Read only if you’re caught up, starting with Twisted Game.

Our love story began in violence… and it will end the same way. I had a moment of respite. A glimpse of a simple, peaceful life with my men.Then everything shattered.

Torn away from the Voronin brothers, handed over to my enemies, I must confront the monsters I’ve been fleeing.But even in the darkest depths, one truth remains: my men will always come for me. They will protect me at any cost.Savage Hearts is a full-length new adult romance with dark themes, featuring resilient anti-heroes and intense passion. It’s the series’ darkest installment, so read responsibly.

The Wife App by Carolyn Mackler

The Wife App is a humorous novel about three best friends who are fed up with their ex-husbands taking their work as wives and moms for granted. They decide to create an app that will help other women monetize the mental load, and in the process, they get revenge on their exes and have a wild ride.

The book is full of witty dialogue and relatable characters, and it explores themes of feminism, friendship, and redemption. It is a fun and heartwarming read that will leave you feeling inspired.

A Kingdom of Fire and Fate by Holly Renee

In A Kingdom of Fire and Fate, Thalia must confront her deepest fears, summon the strength to follow her desires, and embrace the power that lies within her. The kingdom’s future hangs in the balance, and the choices she makes will shape the very fabric of all she holds dear.

This book is a fast-paced, action-packed fantasy romance with a strong female lead. Thalia is a complex and relatable character, and her journey is both exciting and inspiring. The supporting cast is also well-developed, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end.

If you’re a fan of fantasy romance, then you’ll definitely want to check out A Kingdom of Fire and Fate. It’s a well-written, exciting, and emotionally resonant book that you won’t be able to put down.

A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

Feisty Beatrice Steele defies the strict norms of her English township, Swampshire. Despite lacking ladylike skills, she lives contentedly with her matchmaking mother, mischievous father, and sisters. However, Beatrice hides a dark secret: an obsession with true crime. To secure her family’s future, she suppresses her fascination. But when eligible bachelor Edmund Croaksworth arrives, she must maintain composure. The unexpected arrival of a disgraced detective disrupts the autumnal ball. Chaos ensues as Croaksworth dies, leaving them trapped with a killer. Beatrice must abandon decorum to pursue justice and protect her loved ones.

102 Days of Lying About Lauren by Maura Jortner

Abandoned by her mother, a defiant heroine clings to her plan of hiding in an unusual place to save her life. Mouse, a twelve-year-old, calls an amusement park her home. Unnoticed, she sweeps streets, dons a “borrowed” uniform, and sleeps atop the Haunted House of Horrors. Mouse knows the guards to evade, tricks the taco guy, and perfects her hiding methods. However, when Cat starts searching for Lauren Suszek, Mouse panics. Exposure could mean Mama’s return or worse, her permanent absence. To preserve her secret, Mouse must outwit Cat and maintain her carefully constructed life in the park. Maura Jortner’s exceptional debut novel brims with memorable characters, an extraordinary setting, and a delightful mix of grit, humor, and heart.