Fresh from the Shelf

Welcome to Fresh From the Shelf, my weekly roundup of new releases. Every Tuesday, I'll share a selection of books hitting shelves that day—some I've already read, some I'm currently reading, and some I'm eagerly anticipating. Think of it as a peek into my reading life, complete with early impressions, recommendations, and a few bookish musings along the way. Be sure to share your own thoughts in the comments and let me know if there's a new release I should have on my radar!

🍒 Most Anticipated

I have loved all of Jennifer Ryan’s novels so far. She writes fantastic historical fiction that normally takes place during World War II in England that center on women and their stories. Her newest book actually takes place in 1953, during Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. As someone who loves all things British, especially surrounding royalty, this is a must read. It centers on three women and their lives during this time. Can’t wait to read it!!

🍽️ On My Plate This Week

Part of your World is the second book in Karen Witemeyer’s Once Upon a Time in Texas. This time she’s taken inspiration from The Little Mermaid and it is set in 1880s Galveston. I’ve loved everything Karen’s written and Galveston just so happens to be my favorite place in Texas, so this is perfect. I’m three chapters in and I’m in for a fun ride!

📖 Fresh From the Shelf

My three standout picks this week are Road Trip by Mary Kay Andrews, The Windsor Affair by Melanie Benjamin, and The Rainy Day Bookshop by RaeAnne Thayne. While I’ve somehow never read Mary Kay Andrews, she’s been on my “I really need to fix that” list for quite some time. After seeing my bestie Lynette’s glowing review of Road Trip, I’ve officially bumped it higher on my TBR.

If you’ve spent any time around the BHJM kitchen, you know I’m a devoted Anglophile—especially when royalty is involved. The Windsor Affair dives into the 1936 abdication crisis of King Edward VIII, which is exactly the sort of historical drama that immediately grabs my attention.

And then there’s The Rainy Day Bookshop. Honestly, this one hardly needed to make its case. A bookshop, a romance, and what sounds like a cozy small-town atmosphere? That’s the literary equivalent of comfort food, and I’m more than happy to pull up a chair.

🍮 Saving for Dessert

he Unicorn Hunters by Katherine Arden is heading straight to my Saving for Dessert pile this week. Everything about this one sounds like the kind of story I'd normally dive into immediately, which is exactly why I'm choosing to wait. As I'm slowly working my way out of a reading slump, I want to give this book the attention and enthusiasm it deserves rather than risk picking it up at the wrong time. Some books are worth savoring, and I have a feeling this may be one of them.

📚 Worth a Look

There are a few other books coming out today that I’ve got my eye on, but may wait on:

1. The Chateau on Sunset by Natasha Lester

2. Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See

3. The League of Dangerous Young Ladies by J. A. Morgenstein

4. My Roman Summer by Bruna de Luca

5. Not Good Neighbors by Violet Lumani

6. The Valencia Ex Pat Club by June Patrick

💬 Pull Up a Chair

That's what's fresh from the shelf this week! Before you head back to your reading nook, pull up a chair and tell me what's caught your eye. Which new releases are you most excited about, what are you currently reading, and what book should I be watching for next Tuesday? The best part of any bookish gathering is the conversation, so meet me in the comments.

Happy reading . . . always 📚🍰