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Book Pairings: Drinks, Food, Etc.

Fun pairings with books, enough said.

Fall Drinks

BOOK PAIRINGS: FALL DRINKS

What is it?

Fall Drinks & The Book Pairings To Read Along With Them is a book list by Rachel Brittain from Book Riot. Images & descriptions are directly from the original post - ALL CREDIT TO OP / BOOK RIOT.

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MAPLE COLD BREW + THE NEED

A paleobotanist, a controversial bible with feminine pronouns, and a mysterious intruder in a deer mask. Caffeine is probably the last thing you should mix with this mind-bending thriller about identity and alternate universes. But you’re probably going to need some since you definitely won’t be able to put this book down. You’ll be glad for that extra strong maple cold brew when you’re up reading to the very last page.

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HAZELNUT CAPPUCCINO + MAGIC FOR LIARS

Want something with a little more magic & a little less horror? This book about a jaded private eye investigating a murder at a magic school (where her sister just so happens to be a teacher) is an unputdownable reading experience. Pair it up with a hazelnut cappuccino because you’re going to need something strong to go along this ride with Ivy Gamble as she lies, manipulates, & investigates her way through the twists & turns of The Osthorne Academy of Young Mages. Extra espresso shot optional.

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IRISH COFFEE + GIDEON THE NINTH

For this sci-fi horror novel, you’re gonna need something a little stiff. This book is full of irreverent humor, necromancy, and sword fighting. Sip slowly and enjoy the wild ride as Gideon and Harrowhawk try to uncover the horrifying mysterious of immortality in a decaying mansion on a far-off world. And don’t forget to add a dash of whiskey to that brew. Frankly, Gideon Nav would approve of nothing less.

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PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE + WICKED FOX

A fall classic, and, as much a people like to make fun of all the “basic people” who get it, it’s beloved for a reason. It’s sweet, feel-good, and the perfect pairing for this atmospheric K-drama inspired novel about a half gumiho girl and the human boy she falls for in spite of the fox instincts that push her to consume souls.

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MINT MOCHA + THE LADY FROM THE BLACK LAGOON

Looking for a classic with a twist? Mocha with a minty kick is the perfect companion for this nonfiction bestseller. It’s part biography of a forgotten trailblazing artist and part memoir. Learn the true history behind the creation of the creature from Creature from the Black Lagoon and the remarkable woman behind its design—the classic—while O’Meara shares her own experiences in the horror film industry—the twist.

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HOT BUTTERED CHAI + GINGERBREAD

You’ll want something spicy and sweet like gingerbread to go along with this magical realism novel by Helen Oyeyemi. Full of layered storytelling and rich, magical undertones, Gingerbread and chai go together like milk and cookies. Let yourself be transported away with each page and every sip as you learn about the (possibly nonexistent) land of Druhástrana and the gingerbread that affected every aspect of Harriet Lee’s life there.

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LONDON FOG + THE DEEP

This imaginative take on mermaids inspired by the clipping. song of the same name is haunting & beautiful. With all its fragrant notes of bergamot, this latte made of Earl Grey tea & steamed milk makes for the perfect fall drink to go along with The Deep. Sip away while imagining the icy depths Yetu & her people live in as the ocean-dwelling descendants of pregnant African women thrown overboard off of slave ships. Both are sweet, a bit bitter, & a great way to spend a cool, fall day.

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MATCHA LATTE + WILDER GIRLS

Want a more earthy treat? Matcha goes perfectly with this feminist reimagining of Lord of the Flies full of mutated nature, body horror, & friendship. While the girls quarantined in their school fight for their lives, you can enjoy a latte with all the health benefits of green tea. You’ll want to know you’re doing something good for yourself as you learn all the ways the pox has unraveled these girls’ bodies. Trust me.

Like this list? Check out more Book Riot content.

Book Riot has tons of great content - tbh, it can be a bit overwhelming. On their "read" page, you can apply filters to help you narrow down recommendations, reading tips, book news, & literary chatter.

Winter Drinks

BOOK PAIRINGS: WINTER DRINKS

What is it?

7 Winter Drink & Book Pairings is a fun, unique book list by Susie Dumond from Book Riot. Images & descriptions are directly from the original post - ALL CREDIT TO OP / BOOK RIOT.

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HOT CHOCOLATE + IN THE MIDST OF WINTER

Hot chocolate is such a winter classic. It’s sweet, it’s warming, & once you take your first sip, you can’t put it down. That’s what makes it the perfect fit to drink while reading In the Midst of Winter by Isabel Allende. Set in Brooklyn, this novel follows 60-year-old human rights scholar Richard, 62-year-old Chilean lecturer Lucia, and young undocumented immigrant Evelyn as they are thrown together during a snowstorm. It’s got romance, mystery, & nostalgia, making it a perfect winter read.

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EGGNOG + THE SECRET HISTORY

Ok, so eggnog may not be for everyone. But if you’re a fan, you know that it’s rich, flavorful, and packs a punch when you sneak in some bourbon. Similarly, Donna Tartt’s neo-romantic style can be polarizing, but if you love it, you really love it. The Secret History follows a group of six eccentric students at an elite university in Vermont. Under the tutelage of a charismatic Classics professor, their curiosity leads them to make some dangerous choices. It’s rich with memorable characters and filled with mystery that will keep your mind off of the terrible weather outside.

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CHAI LATTE + A GOOD CRY

Chai lattes are my absolute favorite cold weather drink. The black tea spiced with cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, and nutmeg is warm and comforting, and with the smooth cream, it is somehow both heavy and light, soothing and energizing. This complexity of flavor matches perfectly with the poetry of Nikki Giovanni. Her writing takes you on an emotional journey, full of joy, grief, anger, and love. I recommend her most recent collection, A Good Cry: What We Learn from Tears and Laughter, where she explores her past and pays homage to those that have shaped her life.

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MULLED WINE + SEVEN DAYS OF US

Mulled wine is one of those great drinks that will get you a little toasty in a warmth way & in a drunk way. It’s also reminiscent of Christmas, which is why I’ve paired it with Seven Days of Us. In this British novel, the Birch family finds themselves quarantined together after the eldest daughter, Olivia, returns from treating an epidemic abroad. This quarantine just so happens to fall during Christmas, marking the first time the family has spent the holiday together in years. Each family member has a secret to hide, and being in such close proximity forces them to address long-held tensions. Much like mulled wine, it’s festive, lovable, & a little spicy.

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HOT TEA + THE TEA GIRL OF HUMMINGBIRD LANE

Tea is a book lover’s best friend. For your chilly winter tea sipping, I recommend The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane. It’s a little on the nose, but I couldn’t miss the opportunity to suggest this book. It follows Li-Yan, a girl born to tea farmers in a remote Yunnan village, who breaks her family’s traditions to leave her town & pursue an education. In addition to a fascinating lesson on the growing & production of tea, this novel explores family connections & the difficulty of leaving your home behind to pursue your destiny. It’s beautifully written & will make you look at tea a little differently.

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APPLE CIDER + MODERN ROMANCE

Apple cider is sweet & tangy, and since it’s made from fruit, it’s kind of good for you, too! That’s why it’s perfect to pair with Modern Romance by Aziz Ansari, a fun & informative read. Ansari worked with sociologist Eric Klinenberg to undertake a research project on modern dating, love, & relationships. The book uses Ansari’s characteristic humor to explore their findings, and it will bring you all the laughs you need to combat winter gloom.

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CHAMPAGNE + WHITE TEETH

With New Year’s Eve around the corner, you might also be sipping on some bubbly. There’s no shame in ringing in 2018 at home with a book. If that’s the route you’re taking, try White Teeth by Zadie Smith. The story begins on New Year’s Day in North London and follows two friends, Archie Jones and Samad Iqbal, as they navigate faith, race, gender, history, and culture. It’s funny, touching, and poignant, and a great read to start off a new year.

Like this list? Check out more Book Riot content.

Book Riot has tons of great content - tbh, it can be a bit overwhelming. On their "read" page, you can apply filters to help you narrow down recommendations, reading tips, book news, & literary chatter.

Ice Creams

BOOK PAIRINGS: ICE CREAMS

What is it?

Ice Cream & Book Pairings For Hot Summer Days is a book list by Ashley Bowen from Book Riot. Descriptions are directly from the original post - ALL CREDIT TO OP / BOOK RIOT.

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LEMON SPARKLING WINE ICE CREAM + RICH & PRETTY

Yes, wine ice cream exists (in fact, multiple flavors of wine ice cream exist). Pairing an ice cream that features crisp, lemon sparkling wine with a celebrated book about the ways that two young women enter their thirties feels right. Set in contemporary Manhattan, this book is part chronicle of a friendship, part social commentary, & all fun. Blurbs for this book call it “deceptively easy to read,” not unlike how deceptively easy it is to gulp down a few glasses of a good sparkling wine or a few bowls of ice cream.

*Heads up: this book has gotten a lot of negative reviews on goodreads

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RAINBOW SHERBET + MAGRUDER'S CURIOSITY CABINET

This wild, multicolored confection is the perfect compliment to H.P. Wood’s new novel set on Coney Island at the turn of the 20th century. The novel features lion tamers, strong men, & other sideshow acts as they help Kitty Hayward find her missing mother. Nothing is as it seems inside the museum of oddities at the center of this book, not unlike how nothing is as it seems in a scoop of rainbow sherbet.

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NEAPOLITAN ICE CREAM + NEAPOLITAN NOVELS

I mean, was there really any other option? If you haven’t yet started the Ferrante series, there’s no better time than during the summer. Ferrante captures the southern Italian setting perfectly. Pair these books with Neapolitan ice cream because they are set in the Neapolitan region, birthplace of this classic ice cream blends chocolate, vanilla, & strawberry in one serving. The three bands of flavor make it a perfect ice cream to compliment to a series of books that follow multiple characters over time.

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COOKIES & CREAM + BLACKASS

This novel, by Nigerian author A. Igoni Barrett, is a pointed and hilarious commentary on race & class in contemporary Nigeria. On the day of an important job interview, the book’s main character wakes up with white skin, green eyes, & red hair. He’s apparently completely transformed, except for his name, accent, & the black skin that remains on his butt. Barrett’s book tackles serious topics like code switching, identity, sexuality, & culture with lightness. Enjoy Blackass with a bowl of cookies and cream ice to enjoy the mix of black & white.

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VANILLA ICE CREAM + PURITY

I couldn’t resist. Love him or hate him, Franzen has come to represent a certain kind of white dude writing that is a natural fit for vanilla ice cream. His latest book, Purity, does nothing to dispel the sense that he’s a white guy writing for white guys. If you’ve decided to pick up Franzen’s work this summer, you might as well pair it with a nice, refreshing bowl of vanilla ice cream. Besides, if there’s one ice cream flavor associated with purity, it’s vanilla.

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PEACH SORBET + WELCOME TO BRAGGSVILLE

Read this novel with a big bowl of peach sorbet since peaches are Georgia’s state fruit & sorbet sounds a lot more sophisticated than it really is (not unlike the students at the center of this novel). I loved Johnson’s novel about a group of students at UC Berkeley who go to Braggsville, GA to stage a protest/happening at the local Civil War reenactment. The book touches on all the big topics: race, gender, family, protest, inequality, education, & elitism (to name just a few). It’s also beautifully written by someone who understands the South in all it’s complexity, kindness, & cruelty.

What is it?

Fall Drinks & The Book Pairings To Read Along With Them is a super fun, unique book list by Rachel Brittain from Book Riot. Images & descriptions are directly from the original post - ALL CREDIT TO OP / BOOK RIOT.

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BUTTER PECAN + ALL THE KING'S MEN

Robert Penn Warren is the southern grandfather I wish I’d had. Warren won the Pulitzer Prize in 1947 for this fictionalized account of Huey Long’s rise to power. It’s a fantastic book to read on a sweltering summer day leading up to either the GOP or DNC national conventions. Butter Pecan will remind you of the novel’s southern setting and, since I associate that flavor with fathers & grandfathers everywhere, with Warren as I like to imagine him.

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GREEN TEA MOCHI + VIRTUAL LIGHT

This dystopian, cyber-punk, sci-fi novel originally published in the 1990s calls out for Japanese mochi, a portable ice cream & rice cake treat. The book follows a female bike messenger working in San Francisco, a colony of squatters living in the shadow of a destroyed San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge, & a Japanese sociologist who studies the bridge-dwellers. Virtual Light is the first in Gibson’s Bridge Series, so if you like this one there are two more books waiting for you: Idoru All Tomorrow’s Parties.

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DIPPIN' DOTS + PACKING FOR MARS

Dippin’ Dots claims to be the “ice cream of the future” but I’m not so sure that a bunch of tiny balls of ice cream is a super great idea in zero gravity. Mary Roach’s book on the various challenges of living in space doesn’t mention ice cream explicitly but does cover everything from beer to showering in space. If you’re curious, astronauts had real ice cream in space in the 1970s. The (IMHO terrible) freeze dried stuff never actually went into orbit.

Like this list? Check out more Book Riot content.

Book Riot has tons of great content - tbh, it can be a bit overwhelming. On their "read" page, you can apply filters to help you narrow down recommendations, reading tips, book news, & literary chatter.

Teas

BOOK PAIRINGS: TEAS

What is it?

This list is a compilation of 3 found lists: 1) Tea & Book Pairings for Your Afternoon Cuppa by Courtney Rodgers,

2) Read 'Em & Step: Tea & Book Pairing Recommendations by Nicole Perrin, both from Book Riot, & 3) Steeped to Perfection: 11 Divine Book & Tea Pairings by Sarah Jane Abbott from Off the Shelf.  Descriptions are from the original posts - credit to OP authors.

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EARL GREY + STATION ELEVEN

sophisticated · fragrant · energetic

"It won’t spoil anything about the novel to tell you that the last cup of tea ever known to be drunk in the world as we know it is Earl Grey (with milk—highly recommended, btw). But that’s not all that makes it a good pairing. A nice black tea will help keep you caffeinated throughout the all-nighter you’re going to pull reading this anyway." – Nicole Perrin

OR

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EARL GREY + FINGERSMITH

sophisticated · fragrant · energetic

"This fragrant and sophisticated tea is just the match for the story of Sue Trinder, an orphan raised by a family of thieves—fingersmiths—in the heart of a mean London slum. When elegant con man Gentleman offers Sue the opportunity to help him con naïve gentlewoman Maud Lilly and split her vast inheritance, the last thing she expects is to find herself caring for her mark." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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ENGLISH BREAKFAST + THE MAD WOMAN UPSTAIRS

full-bodied · British staple · smart

"Drink a British staple while you read this smart and original debut novel. After her eccentric father’s death, Samantha Whipple is the presumed heir to a rumored treasure trove of documents passed down from the Brontë family. Samantha doesn’t really believe it exists, but then long-lost objects from the past begin showing up in her life and, with the help of a handsome but inscrutable Oxford professor, she is thrust into a literary mystery." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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IRISH BREAKFAST + ELLA ENCHANTED

strong · popular · lightly sweet

"Irish Breakfast is my choice tea. I drink at least one cup every day, rain or shine. In my opinion, it goes perfectly with every book. Irish Breakfast is a bit stronger & sweeter than its English cousin, best served sweetened and with milk. Favorites, like Irish Breakfast should be revisited often, with gusto. Hence, Ella Enchanted. If the Cinderella retelling isn’t for you, swap in a book you treasure." – Courtney Rodgers

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DARJEELING + ANYTHING BY P.G. WODEHOUSE

comforting · classic · delicate black

"Darjeeling is the ultimate comfort tea for me (especially with milk!), and Wodehouse writes my ultimate comfort literature. What more could you want after a tough day than a nice, solid cup of black tea & the hijinks of Bertie Wooster & friends to make you feel human again?" – Nicole Perrin

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MASALA CHAI + TELL ME HOW YOU REALLY FEEL

spicy · sweet · layered

"Masala Chai & variations are enjoyed worldwide, but the spicy, sweet beverage originated in the Indian subcontinent. Black tea, cardamom pods, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, & other spices are brewed either in water in directly in milk to make a deliciously flavorful drink perfect for any time of the day. Tell Me How You Really Feel is a sassy & sweet rom-com featuring aspiring filmmaker Rachel & her perfect leading actress Sana. However, the two don’t have the greatest working relationship since Sana once asked Rachel out & Rachel assumed it was a prank. The layered spices of chai flow beautifully with this multifaceted YA novel." – Courtney Rodgers

OR

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MASALA CHAI + THE GOD OF SMALL THINGS

spicy · sweet · layered

"Indulge in a spicy chai while you read this novel that is equal parts family saga, forbidden love story, & political drama. Seven-year-old twins Estha and Rahel’s world is shaken by the arrival of their beautiful cousin, Sophie. It is an event that will lead to an illicit liaison & tragedies both accidental & intentional." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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MATCHA + KITCHEN

earthy · creamy · savory

"Green tea grown for matcha is specially grown in a slower, shaded process, which boosts flavor & aids in the production of amino acids. Only the best leaves are selected to be dried & ground into a fine powder. The tea is traditionally prepared in a small bowl, then hot water is poured over, & a bamboo whisk is used to create a froth. Matcha is often used, in Japan & worldwide, in patisserie & world class cooking. Through her love of cooking, Mikage the protagonist of Kitchen, works through her grief of losing the grandmother who raised her. Like Mikage, matcha needs special care in order to be at its best. Mikage creates a found family for herself, while letting herself grow & change with time." – Courtney Rodgers

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JASMINE GREEN + SOMEWHERE ONLY WE KNOW

floral · earthy · Chinese classic

"Jasmine Green is a floral & earthy tea. Next time you go out for Sunday “Yum Cha” (literally “drink tea” in Cantonese) don’t forget to pour your neighbor’s jasmine before your fill your own cup. Between the torrential downpours & relentless air con of Hong Kong, a steaming cup of jasmine is always welcome. Pair up your lunchtime jasmine with Lucky’s eating tour of HK in Somewhere Only We Know.  Follow young photographer Jack as he takes (not so) secret K-pop star Lucky on a day out she won’t forget." – Courtney Rodgers

OR

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JASMINE GREEN + THE JOY LUCK CLUB

floral · earthy · Chinese classic

"In 1949 four Chinese women, recent immigrants to San Francisco, form a group where they eat dim sum, play mahjong, & share their tragedies and triumphs. Their lives & those of their daughters come together in this rich and textured novel that pairs perfectly with a mug of a delicate, classic green tea." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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CITRON OOLONG + VAMPIRES IN THE LEMON GROVE

light · lemony · unique

"Sip on this light & lemony tea as you delve into the magical & daring stories in this collection, with subjects as varied as a pair of vampires in a lemon grove coming to terms with their immortal relationship, a community of girls held captive in a silk factory who slowly become silkworms as they plot revolution, & a family on a disastrous quest to claim land in the American West." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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TIEGUANYIN + SPRING SNOW

floral · elegant · ceremonial

"You might expect to match a traditional Japanese matcha with a writer like the nationalistic Mishima, & his high aestheticism certainly shares something with traditional tea ceremony. But the astringency of green tea isn’t quite right here. In Spring Snow, the beautiful Satoko takes on the role of Kannon, the Japanese name for the Mercy Goddess whom Tieguanyin is named for, & the beautiful floral notes of a typical tieguanyin complement the elegance embodied in the cherry blossom & maple-oriented festivals that are so important to this novel." – Nicole Perrin

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CHAMOMILE + THE HIGH MOUNTAINS OF PORTUGAL

relaxing · lightly floral · slightly sweet

"Chamomile is the tea you reach for at bedtime, or in the middle of the night when you just can’t go back to sleep. It is made from dried chamomile flowers & can be served hot or cold with honey or unsweetened. The High Mountains of Portugal is a tender & sweet trio of fables, with a dreamy, fairytale like quality, set in rural Portugal. The stories contain questions of life & love, wrapped up in language that will help send you peacefully off to sweet dreams." – Courtney Rodgers

OR

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CHAMOMILE + A MAN CALLED OVE

relaxing · lightly floral · slightly sweet

"This tea will make you feel warm & comforted, just like this novel about Ove, a lonely & cranky old man with staunch principles, strict routines, & a short fuse. When an annoyingly friendly couple & their two children move in next door, Ove finds himself with several unexpected new friends, an unkempt cat, & a new outlook on life." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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HARNEY & SONS PARIS BLEND + THE QUEEN OF THE NIGHT

lush · layered · interesting

"The beloved blend of fruity black tea with vanilla and caramel is the perfect pairing for this lush historical novel about singer Lilliet Berne, the sensation of the Paris Opera. All she needs to become a legend is an original role. But when one is offered to her, she realizes with horror that the opera is based on a dark secret of her past—one only four people know. Which of them has betrayed her, and what do they want?" – Sarah Jane Abbott

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LONDON FOG + THE DEEP

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ROOIBOS + BORN A CRIME

interesting · earthy · flavorful

"Rooibos is an herbal tea from South Africa, with a rich, red color & an earthy taste. The color is achieved by an oxidation process.  Rooibos can be enjoyed in a similar manner to black tea, hot or iced, with milk, sugar or honey, or plain. Born a Crime is comedian Trevor Noah’s memoir of growing up as an illegal mixed raced child in South Africa. Noah’s childhood was spent hiding, for being not one race or the other. Between essays of Noah’s boundless energetic spirit & heartbreaking realities, you will find hope & reflection." – Courtney Rodgers

OR

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ROOIBOS + MR. MERCEDES

interesting · earthy · flavorful

"This deep red tea goes well with the story of Bill Hodges, a retired cop who is still haunted by the unsolved case of a maniac who killed eight people when he plowed through a crowd in his Mercedes. When Hodges gets a crazed letter from someone who claims to be the killer & threatens to kill again, he knows he must finish the case once & for all." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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MOROCCAN MINT + MIRAGE

sweet · transportive · fragrant

"Moroccan Mint is an essential part of Moroccan daily life. Green tea leaves are soaked in boiling water for 15 minutes before adding it is filtered, sugar, and mint leaves are added and boiled again. This tea is served immediately to guests upon entering a Moroccan household. In Mirage, Amani is a dreamer living in the Valthek controlled empire, a Moroccan inspired star system. Amani becomes unwitting body double for the cruel Princess Maram, her life in danger at every turn. Heat up the kettle & get the adventure started with Mirage, its sequel is expected some time next year." – Courtney Rodgers

OR

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MOROCCAN MINT + TANGERINE

sweet · transportive · fragrant

"After moving to Tangier with her new husband, the last person Alice Shipley expects to see is Lucy Mason, her once inseparable but now estranged college roommate. Perhaps they can put the terrible incident in their past behind them—but when Alice’s husband goes missing, she begins to question everything. A glass of sweet, fragrant Moroccan tea will transport you into this sharp, breathless thriller." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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PU'ER + ANOTHER COUNTRY

fermented · bracing · complex

"Baldwin’s writing is so forceful you might think it takes a red eye, or perhaps some Turkish coffee (if not something alcoholic) to hold its own next to a book like Another Country, his incomparable novel of love, hate, anger, & just about every other strong emotion you can name. But I disagree: a bracing & complex pu’er can be the perfect accompaniment to Baldwin & his stories of complicated passion. An unfamiliar drinker may wrinkle the nose at pu’er’s pungent mustiness, but these fermented varieties are also recognized as some of the finest available by more trained palates. Enjoy with one of the finest American novels I’ve ever read." – Nicole Perrin

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BLOOMING TEA + A HERO BORN

beautiful · classic reborn · third

"Blooming Tea, or Flowering Tea is created by bundling precious tea leaves around whole dried flowers. When boiling water is poured over the bundle, it “blooms” to reveal a beautiful flower. This tea is best experienced in a glass tea pot so that you can watch the flower open. Combining classic Chinese teas with modern teas & trends, has brought Blooming Tea to the tea spotlight in the last few years. A Hero Born is a Chinese classic, in print in the US for the first time! The Kung Fu epic spans from the Song Empire to the arrival of Genghis Khan." – Courtney Rodgers

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SWEET TEA + THE LITTLE FRIEND

iconically southern · summery · thirst-quenching

"Sweet Tea is a southern summer classic. It is impossible to survive a humid southern summer without a pitcher of almost cloyingly sweet tea always in the fridge. Look away, British persons, sweet tea is iced. The Little Friend is a beautiful, masterfully woven novel set during a long, hot Mississippi summer. Twelve year-old Harriet seeks the answers to the unsolved murder of her older brother. You’ll want a few pitchers of tea for this one; The Little Friend is deliciously lengthy, with measured prose that might last you all summer." – Courtney Rodgers

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SILVER NEEDLE WHITE TEA + SILVER SPARROW

rare · delicate · cultural

"Savor this premium tea variety while reading this breathtaking story about a man’s deception, a family’s complicity, and two teenage girls caught in the middle. James Witherspoon has two families—a public one and a secret one. When the daughters from each family meet and form a friendship, only one of them knows that they are sisters, and their relationship teeters on the edge of exploding." – Sarah Jane Abbott

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LAPSANG SOUCHONG + PARABLE OF THE SOWER

smoky · unexpected · complex

"In this dystopian classic, environmental & economic crises have led to a breakdown of society, & Lauren Olamina, an empath & minister’s daughter, ventures out into the unprotected American landscape. What begins as a flight for survival leads to the birth of a new faith as Lauren becomes a prophet carrying hope & revolutionary new ideas. A smoky Lapsang Souchong tea is just as complex & unexpected as this story."

– Sarah Jane Abbott

Like this list? Check out more book recommendation lists.

Wines

WHAT TYPE OF WINE FOR DIFFERENT READS + A BOOK PICK

What is it?

11 Wine and Book Pairings to Cozy Up With Tonight is a book list by Molly Thomson from Popsugar's book blog. Descriptions are directly from the original post - ALL CREDIT TO OP / BOOK RIOT.

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THE COMFORTING CLASSIC

MULLED WINE

Something like...

HARRY POTTER SERIES

by J.K. Rowling

"Opening a book to a familiar world is as comforting as snuggling into a childhood blanket. Pair Harry Potter and the Cursed Child with a warm mug of mulled wine and let the cinnamon, cider, and spices spark your senses and ready you for quotes, characters, or settings that you have come to know. Whether it's the next book in a series or simply a book you've read nine times before, mulled wine will set the tone as nostalgic and sweet as the Great Hall at Christmastime or Dumbledore's socks."​

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THE PSYCHOLOGICAL THRILLER

CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Something like...

THE GIRL ON THE TRAIN

by Paula Hawkins

"Psychological thrillers like the soon-to-be-movie The Girl on the Train operate on many layers simultaneously, much like a Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is heavy and dark, much like your own thoughts as you mull over the none-too-reassuring possibilities."​

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THE EMPOWERING MEMOIR

SAUVIGNON BLANC

Something like...

SEX OBJECT

by Jessica Valenti

"For your strong, honest, badass memoir, try a Sauvignon Blanc. Tart and bold, it will perfectly match the rawness of an awareness-raising memoir, like Jessica Valenti's incredible and all-too-relatable Sex Object about the subtle (and not-so-subtle) everyday sexism women face."

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THE SELF-EXAMINING JOURNEY

CHAMPAGNE

Something like...

WILD

by Cheryl Strayed

"When you are following someone on a trying emotional and physical journey, especially in nonfiction, you share every moment of triumph with them. For that reason, I recommend a Brut Champagne. For as many obstacles as life may throw at us, memoirs like Wild remind us that each moment of clarity, optimism, and pride ought to be celebrated."

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THE NOVEL WITH A RITZY SETTING

PINOT NOIR

Something like...

SONS & DAUGHTERS OF EASE & PLENTY

by Ramona Ausubel

"When reading about characters who are accustomed to money, the right wine will help you feel part of their world à la a certain redheaded mermaid. Go for the gold with the most elitist & romantic wine you can buy, at least if Sideways has anything to say about it. Let a good Pinot Noir (perhaps with a side of lobster) take you to Martha's Vineyard, lounging by a crystalline turquoise pool."​ – Molly Thomson; "Brimming with humanity & wisdom, humor & bite, & imbued with both the whimsical & the profound, 

Sons & Daughters of Ease & Plenty is a story of American wealth, class, family, & mobility..." – Goodreads

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THE DYSTOPIAN SCI-FI

PINOT GRIGIO / PINOT GRIS

Something like...

NEVER LET ME GO

by Kazuo Ishiguro

Dystopian fiction is by no means the proper setting for anything sweet. Try a dry Pinot Grigio to match the unnerving, stunningly creative nature of the new world in Never Let Me Go — the crisper, the better.

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THE HEARTBREAKING ROMANCE

MERLOT

Something like...

ME BEFORE YOU

by Jojo Moyes

"Girl meets boy. Girl & boy fall in love. Either boy or girl, or both, meet horrific impending death or separation. In order to read this kind of popular love story trope, you'll need a Merlot to go with your Kleenex boxes. Merlot is both heavy & beautiful with a floral taste, pairing nicely with a modern-day Romeo & Juliet like the ones in Me Before You."​

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THE YOUNG ADULT NOVEL

WHITE ZINFANDEL

Something like...

WE WERE LIARS

by E. Lockhart

"We Were Liars has a terrific element of suspense that almost elevates it from the YA genre. Still, whether you're reading Sarah Dessen, Meg Cabot, or John Green, try a White Zinfandel. Juicy, sweet, alcoholic, & zesty, it will make your read all the more engrossing & entertaining."

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THE CELEBRITY COMEDY

SANGRIA

Something like...

THE GIRL WITH THE LOWER BACK TATTOO

by Amy Schumer

A good celebrity memoir is the ideal read immediately after reading something heavy. Often a bit lighter, quicker to flip through, & wildly funny, it pairs well with a fun glass of fruit-filled sangria. If well-done, it's a treat to read & by no means lacking substance, like Amy Schumer's The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo.

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THE DELICIOUS MYSTERY

MOSCATO

Something like...

TRULY MADLY GUILTY

by Liane Moriarty

"This genre is a sugary-sweet guilty pleasure. As you tear through the pages of Truly Madly Guilty to uncover what exactly happened on that day everyone keeps alluding to, slow down to sip a sweet glass of Moscato & enjoy how maddeningly addictive they both are."

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THE COMING OF AGE STORY

ROSÉ

Something like...

SWEETBITTER

by Stephanie Danler

"Perhaps it's because it's a saturated market, but many coming-of-age stories, especially set in New York City like in Sweetbitter, tend to attract a good amount of criticism, much like the scrumptious gift from the gods that is Rosé. Try a dry Rosé, because these stories often aren't easy & sugary sweet, but instead bruising & honest."

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Cocktails

PAIR THIS COCKTAIL WITH THAT BOOK

What is it?

Classic Cocktails

First, the drinks with multiple book matches...

THE DRINK:  Gin & Tonic (early 19th century, British officers in India)

Main alcohol: Gin, duh

01

BOOK OPTION:  The Far Pavilions by M.M. Kaye

"Kaye’s epic novel of British colonialism in India describes the adventures of Ashton Pelham-Martyn & is a fine example of complex storytelling. Gin & tonic was invented by the British in India as a refreshing method of passing time at the club." – Richard Davies

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02

BOOK OPTION:  Collected Poems by Philip Larkin

"The first stanza of Larkin’s “Sympathy in White Major”—a poem from his 1974 collection, High Windows—features what many consider the most mouth-watering account of assembling a gin & tonic ever rendered in verse: “When I drop four cubes of ice/ Chimingly in a glass, & add / Three goes of gin, a lemon slice,/ & let a ten-ounce tonic void/ In foaming gulps until it smothers/ Everything else up to the edge,/ I lift the lot in private pledge:/ He devoted his life to others.” “Sympathy in White” brims with mixed feelings—it concludes with, “Here’s to the whitest man I know – /Though white is not my favorite color”—but its featured mixed drink is a reliable friend. (Larkin made a not-insignificant number of them over the course of his life.)" – Lauren Oster

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03

BOOK OPTION:  Brideshead Revisited by Evelyn Waugh

"Waugh is a gorgeous writer & recounts the relationship between two young men (one of whom is very rich, & very complicated) in the waning days of England's great houses. The book takes you from Oxford, to the English countryside, through Venice, on cruise ships to New York, to Morocco, and back into the "present day" where Charles, our narrator, is a Captain in the British army. Warm, nostalgic, & full of art, love, complicated friendships, grandeur & loss; it's just gossipy & opulent enough, but grounded with heavier themes. A classic Gin & Tonic is the perfect pairing; stiff & simple, yet luxurious." – The Ardent Biblio

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THE DRINK:  Whiskey Sour (first written down in Jerry Thomas' 1862 bartenders guide in NY, known for over a                                      century prior - sours first created by British Naval Officers at sea with gin & brandy, Americans                                              favored whiskey, creating the Whiskey Sour)

Main alcohol: Whiskey (promise they're not all this obvious)

04

BOOK OPTION:  The Morning Watch by James Agee

"Agee died at 45 & whiskey sour was his preferred poison. The Morning Watch is lesser known, when compared to A Death in the Family, & is semi-autobiographical. It’s a story of adolescent crisis based on the author’s experiences in rural Tennessee." – Richard Davies

05

BOOK OPTION:  Girl With a Gun by Kari Bovee

"No drink feels more Old West than one with whiskey in it. One of the most simple, old fashioned whiskey drinks is a whiskey sour. Just shake together some whiskey, lemon juice, & sugar with ice & strain. If you’re feeling the Old West vibe, you’ll want to read Girl With a Gun by Kari Bovée. This historical murder mystery reimagines Annie Oakley, the famous sharpshooter, as an amateur sleuth. When the people around her start dying, she must find the culprit & clear her name." – Spark Press

BOOK OPTION:  The Crying of Lot 49 by Thomas Pynchon

"The Crying of Lot 49 is a very boozy book: it also features excessive kirsch (in fondue), Beaujolais, Jack Daniel’s, a thermos of tequila sours, dandelion wine, & Champagne cocktails. So why does the whiskey sour stand out? We meet Pynchon’s heroine, bored California housewife Oedipa Maas, as she’s reflecting on her afternoon, from her market run to 'the layering of a lasagna, garlicking of a bread, tearing up of romaine leaves, eventually, oven on, into the mixing of the twilight’s whiskey sours against the arrival of her husband, Wendell (“Mucho”) Maas,' who “glid[es] like a large bird in an updraught towards the sweating shakerful of booze” when he gets home. The cocktail is a symbol of the couple’s stagnation—& a popular order when celebrating Pynchon in Public Day (the author’s birthday, May 8)." – Lauren Oster

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06

THE DRINK:  Mint Julep (18th century, southern United States)

Main alcohol: Bourbon

07

BOOK OPTION:  Man O'War by Walter Farley

"Mint Julep is the drink of choice at the Kentucky Derby & Man O’ War was one of America’s greatest racehorses, winning 20 of 21 races. Farley’s biography verges into fiction but sheds light on the achievements of this famous Kentucky-born horse." – Richard Davies

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08

BOOK OPTION:  As I Lay Dying by William Faulkner

"Down a few too many of these & you, too, might feel as if there are 15 voices inside of you all speaking in Southern-tinged stream-of-consciousness. As I Lay Dying, in which hillbilly sensibilities meet Shakespearean prose, is a magnificent experiment in scale & narrative, but it’s not an easy book. What’s needed for this pairing is an easy cocktail, & the julep delivers. Faulkner’s mint julep recipe is charmingly vague on the amount of hooch: just 'whisky, 1 tsp sugar, ice, & a sprig or two of crushed mint, served in a metal cup.'" – Sherri Boggs

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THE DRINK:  Bloody Mary (1920s, Harry's New York Bar, Paris - disputed/unclear)

Main alcohol: Vodka

09

BOOK OPTION:  The Queen's Fool by Philippa Gregory

"Catholic Queen Mary became known as Bloody Mary because of her relentless persecution of Protestants. She loved a good burning. Gregory’s novel looks at Mary & her more famous half-sister Elizabeth I & is a sympathetic account of a brutal queen." – Richard Davies

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10

BOOK OPTION:  The Dirty Book Club by Lisi Harrison

"Sometimes life, books, or alcohol gets you down. You need a pick-me-up, a cure for life’s hangover—or an actual hangover. You need something earthy, sweet, spicy, & maybe a little funny. The Dirty Book Club is the perfect book to get you back on your feet after a night of heavy uhhh...reading. After moving from New York to California, M.J. finds herself invited to a very secret book club, one that only reads erotic novels. Intrigued, M.J. accepts the invite & finds herself among three interesting women. They quickly form a bond of friendship & realize they have the power to take control of their own stories." – Maddie Ehrenreich

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THE DRINK:  Pisco Sour (1920s, Peru or Chile)

Main alcohol: Pisco

11

BOOK OPTION:  The War of Don Emmanuel's Nether Parts by Louis

                                       de Bernières

"Pisco sours originate from Chile and/or Peru. This novel is the first in de Bernières’ Latin American trilogy of chaos & political corruption. It parodies the worst excesses of South American dictatorships – the storyline veers frequently into violence as ordinary folks struggle on." – Richard Davies

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12

BOOK OPTION:  2666 by Roberto Bolaño

"1/2 cup pisco or brandy the juice from 2 limes 1 tablespoon simple syrup 1 egg white (optional) 2 dashes angostura bitters orange slices. Both Peru & Chile claim the creation of pisco, that delicious grape brandy, & liquor die-hards from both countries have been arguing over its true origins for years. So we think it’s only proper to take a glass to power you through an equally tempestuous novel by our favorite Chilean novelist. But hey Peru, don’t read anything into this – we’re not taking sides."

– Emily Temple

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THE DRINK:  Brandy Alexander (early 20th century variation of gin Alexander, location unknown)

Main alcohol: Brandy (+ crème de cacao)

13

BOOK OPTION:  This Sweet Sickness by Patricia Highsmith

"Highsmith is the mistress of psychological thrillers where people are not what they seem & there is usually a knock-out punch at the end. This Sweet Sickness is a story of obsession & brandy alexander has the type of kick required to match Highsmith’s twists & turns." – Richard Davies

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14

BOOK OPTION:  For Your Eyes Only by Ian Fleming

"In Ian Fleming’s 1960 short story collection, James Bond finds himself in Venice–as Fleming himself did a few years earlier–among Italian gangsters. He posed as an affluent writer by 'scattering thousand-lira notes like leaves in Vallombrosa' in fashionable venues like Harry’s Bar (home of the Bellini), Florian’s, & the Quadri. The Brandy Alexander, a Prohibition-era drink made with cognac, crème de cacao, & heavy cream, is a secret signal for 007 & a CIA informant: 'The creamy, feminine drink was so much cleverer than the folded newspaper, the flower in the buttonhole, the yellow gloves that were the hoary, slipshod call signs between agents.'"

– Lauren Oster

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THE DRINK:  Mojito (date unknown - theories vary 1500s-1800s, Havana, Cuba)

Main alcohol: White rum

15

BOOK OPTION:  The Old Man & The Sea by Ernest Hemingway

"The perpetually summery Mojito might seem an odd choice for the salt-weathered tale of an old man’s epic fight with a gigantic marlin, but when you consider where it was written (Cuba) & who it was written by (Ernest Hemingway), it all makes a lot more sense. Hemingway was reportedly quite fond of the white rum, mint, simple syrup & lime concoction, so much so that there are numerous Mojito recipes attributed to him." – Sherri Boggs

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16

BOOK OPTION:  The Opposite of Never by Mary Kathleen Mehuron

"One of the most famous Cuban cocktails is the mojito. This rum-based drink is traditionally made with sugar, lime, soda, & mint for a refreshing beverage during the hot Cuban summers. There are variations with lemon, rose, coconut, or gin, but nothing beats the classic mojito. To pair with this drink, we recommend The Opposite of Never by Mary Kathleen Mehuron. In this story about finding love later in life & the effects of addiction, Georgia & Kenny find hope in one another. Towards the end of the book, they run off to Cuba together, where they drink mojitos & make new friends." – Spark Press

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THE DRINK:  Cosmopolitan (origin disputed - theories vary 1930s-1980s, United States)

Main alcohol: Vodka

17

BOOK OPTION:  The Last Original Wife by Dorothea Benton Frank

"If you liked The Starter Wife, then you’ll love The Last Original Wife & pair it with a simple, original, straight-up Cosmo. Readers who enjoy reading about strong women and the ins & outs of first & second marriages will love Dorothea Benton Frank’s latest. Leslie Anne Greene Carter is the last of the original wives in her social set in Atlanta, Georgia – but, as Leslie realizes after a series of mishaps & accidents, is being divorced really the worst thing that can happen? Pair this beach read with the ultimate in cocktails. To make The Best Cosmo you’ve ever had, combine lemon vodka, Grand Marnier, fresh cherries & cranberry juice, because classics (whether wives or drinks) will never go out of style." – Swapna Krisna

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18

BOOK OPTION:  Mystery Man by Kristen Ashely

"Mystery Man by Kristen Ashley is––admittedly—insane. There are kidnappings & firebombs & standoffs between motorcycle clubs, policemen, & commandos. It’s over-the-top madness that I cannot get enough of. At the root of the story, Gwen, a cookie-dough-eating girl’s girl, is just out to be happy, but after coming out of a horrible relationship, she’s afraid to trust again. Hawk, my book boyfriend for life, is moody, a smidge too bossy, but has a heart larger than life, even after it’s been struck by tragedy. Drink Recommendation: Cosmopolitan, and, if you have it, throw on a little black dress and imagine being part of Gwen’s girl squad." – Alexa Martin

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THE DRINK:  Manhattan (1860s-70s, NYC)

Main alcohol: Whiskey

19

BOOK OPTION:  Bedside Manners by Heather Frimmer

"A Manhattan is likely a drink that your grandmother enjoyed. This simple drink made out of whiskey or rye, sweet vermouth, & bitters has a multi-generational appeal—the maraschino cherry garnish makes it almost a grown-up Shirley Temple. For a multi-generational drink, we recommend a multi-generational book that may appeal to both you & your grandmother. Bedside Manners by Heather Frimmer is a mother-daughter story. It follows Joyce, a mother recently diagnosed with breast cancer, & her daughter Marnie, who is planning a wedding. These events force them into new roles, so they learn more about themselves—and each other." – Spark Press

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20

BOOK OPTION:  Go Set a Watchman by Harper Lee

"Go Set a Watchman is set in my heart of hearts, Alabama. Every Southern girl knows how to hold her whiskey, so I imagine Scout & Hank bringing flasks of it to drink by the water. When they’re not drinking it neat, I think Scout would appreciate a good Manhattan, especially since we find her a New York City girl in Harper Lee’s second book. I think she would refuse to eat maraschino cherries though, don’t you? I can see her sneaking them into Atticus’ glass when he pretends to not be looking."

– Jessica Wang

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THE DRINK:  Classic Daiquiri (early 1900s, Cuba)

Main alcohol: Rum

21

BOOK OPTION:  But Not Forever by Jan Von Schleh

"This sweet drink has plenty of variations. These days, the daiquiris that come to mind are frozen & fruity, but the original daiquiris were simple—just sugar, lime, & rum. Whether you like it the original way or the more modern version, it’s delicious. For a drink this sweet, a young adult read may be a perfect fit. But Not Forever by Jan von Schleh features two identical girls switched in time—what could be sweeter? It has two parallel timelines, one back in 1895 & one in 2015." – Spark Press

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22

BOOK OPTION:  Social Creature by Tara Isabella Burton

"Social Creature is one of summer's hottest thrillers & calls for a cocktail that is as sophisticated & trendy as Louise wants to be. We think a classic daiquiri fits perfectly with this novel & could easily be Louise's go-to bar order when she isn't quaffing free champagne. When served in elegant stemware this is timeless sophistication with a touch of glamour; it's not the strawberry pink slushy monstrosity you're imagining, but a drink that is simple, elegant, & not particularly sweet." – The Arden Biblio

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Now the 1:1 pairings...

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BOOK:  Flight or Fright by Stephen King

Main alcohol: Gosling's Black Seal rum

DRINK:  Dark & Stormy (1850s, British Royal Naval Officers)

"When I think of a dark & stormy, I think of rough weather & the warm, sharp taste of ginger. A Dark & Stormy pairs perfectly with Flight or Fright, edited by Stephen King & Bev Vincent. [It] is a collection of 17 harrowing tales of flying that King himself described as the perfect read for the stormy descent on your next flight." – Maddie Ehrenreich

24

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BOOK:  Mother, Mother by Koren Zailckas

Main alcohol: Yep, you guessed it - vodka

DRINK:  Vodka Soda (origin unknown...uh a long time ago)

"Zailckas’s first foray into fiction follows the Hurst family, whose matriarch, Josephine, just wants everything to stay as perfect as it looks from the outside. But when her oldest daughter disappears, everyone falls out of sync. Middle child Violet is rebelling, sweet Will’s teachers just don’t understand the kind of special treatment he really needs, & Mr. Hurst is no help at all. If everyone would just do what Josephine wants them to do, everything would be perfect. So what if she needs to violate some privacy, and deceive & manipulate her loved ones? They’ll learn to appreciate it in the end. This book is full of drama, & the levels of dysfunction that Josephine manages to generate are staggering. Long after you’ve turned the final page, the Hursts & their tragic tale will linger. A story that is such a roller coaster needs a no-nonsense drink. The simplicity of a vodka soda makes it a perfect sipping companion while your book club debates how insane Josephine actually is." – Nicole Lewis

25

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BOOK:  Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov

Main alcohol: Vodka (sometimes citron vodka)

DRINK:  Lemon Drop (1970s, Henry's Africa Bar, San Francisco)

"Any candy-themed drink would probably be a good partner for Vladimir Nabokov’s controversial 1958 novel, in which a middle-aged academic falls hard for a precocious 12-year old, but I especially like the Lemon Drop. Not just because of its confectionary connotations, but because the vodka is a nice homage to the author’s Russian heritage, the lemon juice contributes a necessary twinge of sour, & the drink’s pale yellow color is as lovely as Nabokov’s prose." – Sherri Boggs

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BOOK:  Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson

Main alcohol: Gin

DRINK:  Singapore Sling (sometime before 1915, Raffles Hotel, Singapore)

"The bartender Ngiam Tong Boon invented the Singapore Sling in 1915; Raoul Duke & Dr. Gonzo made it notorious in America, where it was the star of an ensemble cast of booze. In the course of their adventures, the duo fill their trunk (& themselves) with a quart of tequila, a quart of rum, a case of Budweiser, a pint of raw ether, & 'a whole galaxy of uppers, downers, laughers, screamers.' It’s difficult to recommend any of that, even for literary purposes, but re-creating the Sling itself is good fun. San Francisco bar Elixir To Go put a northern California spin on the drink with their Yerba Buena Sling, made with rye whiskey, Heering Cherry, Ferrand Dry Curaçao, lemon & pineapple juice, & Dale DeGroff’s Pimento Aromatic Bitters."

– Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  Infinite Jest by David Foster Wallace

Main alcohol(s): Vodka, rum, tequila, gin, triple sec - WOO

DRINK:  Long Island Iced Tea (LIT) (1972, NY)

"1 oz vodka, 1 oz gin, 1 oz rum, 1 oz tequila, 1/2 oz triple sec, 1/2 oz sour mix, splash of cola – Relax; you’ll be here for a while. No, we didn’t just pair these two because of that “long” in the title (though the thought has obviously crossed our minds). We think the cocktail is perfect for Wallace’s mix of high brow & low brow, his critique of American entertainment, & the number of elements you’re likely to encounter in any given chapter. & yes, Long Island Iced Teas are usually enormous, & you’re going to need quite a few before you finish." – Emily Temple

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BOOK:  Trouble The Water by Jacqueline Friedland

Main alcohol: Whiskey (bourbon or rye)

DRINK:  Old Fashioned (mid-late 1800s, United States)

"The term cocktail was coined in 1806 in a New York newspaper, defined as a mixture of sugar, spirits, water, & bitters. This definition expanded over time, but some came to prefer something a little more old-fashioned—something that fit the original definition. Thus, the Old Fashioned was born. To pair with this drink, we recommend Trouble the Water by Jacqueline Friedland. It follows a young woman in the 1840s (right around the time the drink would be coming into popularity) who discovers that her benefactor is an abolitionist helping local slaves escape."

– Spark Press

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BOOK:  The Awakening by Kate Chopin

Main alcohol: Cognac (+ absinthe)

DRINK:  Sazerac (mid-1800s, Sazerac Coffee House, New Orleans)

"The Sazerac is the oldest known American cocktail, originating in pre-Civil War New Orleans. A heady combination of cognac, bourbon or rye, & Peychaud’s bitters served with lemon peel in an absinthe-swirled glass, the Sazerac is the perfect accompaniment to Kate Chopin’s turn of the century novel about adultery, feminine emancipation, & New Orleans society. Strong, bitter-ish, & slightly scandalous (absinthe was illegal in the U.S. from 1912 to 2007), the Sazerac comes on strong and leaves you a bit swoony." – Sherri Boggs

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BOOK:  Trouble Brewing by Suzanne Baltsar

Main alcohol: Vodka

DRINK:  Moscow Mule (1941, Cock 'n' Bull Bar, Los Angeles)

"Trouble Brewing might be about a sassy, independent female beer brewer, but it is as light & refreshing as a Moscow Mule. [It] follows Piper Williams, a determined craft beer brewer, who makes a pact with a charming new gastropub owner. Piper agrees to go on a date with Blake, but only if two more pubs agree to start selling her beer. However, when Piper gets the opportunity of a lifetime, the deal might be off the table despite the electric chemistry between the two. It’s fun, flirty, & charming, just like this delicious summer drink served in a quirky copper mug." – Maddie Ehrenreich

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BOOK:  The Red Room by August Strindberg

Main alcohol: ...

DRINK:  Absinthe (late 18th century, Switzerland - rose to popularity 19th-

                    early 20th century France)

"OK, so absinthe makes you go blind & crazy*, but if it’s good enough for Napoleon & Bohemian novelists like Sweden’s August Strindberg then it might be worth a go. A satire on life in Stockholm, The Red Room shows hypocrisy is always just around the corner." – Richard Davies

​

*This is actually not true.

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BOOK:  Pride & Prejudice by Jane Austen

Main alcohol: Port wine

DRINK:  Negus (1732, Col. Francis Negus, England)

"Created by colonel Francis Negus in 1737, the Negus—a wintery concoction of port wine, sugar, lemon, & boiling water—was still an appropriate social lubricant in Jane Austen’s day, but according to the Jane Austen Centre in the UK, the Negus was considered a children’s beverage by Victorian times(!) We think it’s the perfect choice for the ball at Netherfield scene—imagine Lizzy fortifying herself with one of these whilst eavesdropping on the dreadful Mr. Darcy." – Sherri Boggs

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BOOK:  The Long Goodbye by Raymond Chandler

Main alcohol: Gin

DRINK:  Gimlet (19th century, British Naval Officers to administer medicine / anti-                                scurvy measures)

"The Long Goodbye popularized the drink, so nothing else can really accompany this classic example of hard-boiled detective fiction. Chandler’s drunk, Terry Lennox, insisted a true Gimlet is half gin & half lime juice. Sadly, Chandler struggled with alcohol addiction." – Richard Davies

"Raymond Chandler’s sixth Philip Marlowe novel introduces the private eye to Terry Lennox, a cheerless bar-fly with an urgent need to leave the country. Marlowe helps him flee to Mexico, then learns the man is suspected of murdering his wife—and that he’s reportedly killed himself. Before that tragic turn of events, Marlowe & Lennox strike up a friendship over drinks: "We sat in a corner of the bar at Victor’s & drank gimlets. 'They don’t know how to make them here,’ [Lennox] said. What they call a gimlet is just some lime or lemon juice, & gin with a dash of sugar & bitters. A real gimlet is half gin & half Rose’s Lime Juice & nothing else.” That famous recipe cameo owes its significance to an ocean voyage Chandler took in 1952, the year before The Long Goodbye was published. The drink he had on that trip made such a strong impression that he eventually had Rose’s Lime Juice delivered by the caseload to his home in San Diego." – Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  Vegas Girls by Heather Skyler

Main alcohol: Tequila

DRINK:  Classic Margarita (1930s, Southern California or Mexico)

"There is something about margaritas & hot summer nights that remind me of sitting around a kitchen table, or on the back patio, crying & laughing with my best friends as we spill our darkest secrets & our wildest hopes. Maybe it’s the salty, sour, sweet sensation that brings us closer together, or maybe something else. Sure, a margarita is a fun summer drink, but it’s so much more than that, just like Vegas Girls by Heather Skyler. [It] tells the story of three high school best friends who reunite in their hometown, Las Vegas, for a week of celebration. But the reunion isn’t just about spending time in the sun; each of these friends is on a private quest of self-discovery & longing. This novel is about best friends, love, & the importance of embracing your past in order to move on." – Maddie Ehrenreich

35

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BOOK:  The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger

Main alcohol: Scotch whisky

DRINK:  Scotch & Soda aka Highball (exact origin unclear – popular in 1800s

                      UK, written in a cocktail guide in 1895, United States - gained popularity in

                      Japan early 1900s)

"Holden Caulfield believes he has a knack for appearing older than 'a goddam minor,' thanks to his hair, height, & posturing, but they’re of no use to him at the Lavender Room in Manhattan’s Edmont Hotel: 'I ordered a Scotch & soda, and told him not to mix it—I said it fast as hell, because if you hem & haw, they think you’re under twenty-one & won’t sell you any intoxicating liquor. I had trouble with him anyway, though. ‘I’m sorry, sir,’ he said, ‘but do you have some verification of your age? Your driver’s license, perhaps?' I gave him this very cold stare, like he’d insulted the hell out of me, & asked him, ‘Do I look like I’m under twenty-one?’' On this occasion, alas, he does. Holden’s luck changes at Ernie’s in Greenwich Village, where he finds scotch-and-soda related success." – Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote

Main alcohol: Vodka

DRINK:  Screwdriver (early-mid 20th century, location disputed/unclear likely United

                     States or oil rig workers in the Persian Gulf)

"You know what’s a great breakfast drink? Orange juice. You know what’s a great Breakfast at Tiffany’s drink? Orange juice & vodka. This pairing works not only because of the obvious breakfast theme, but also because the Screwdriver was author Truman Capote’s drink-of-choice. Aware that even in his own time this simple concoction wasn’t the showiest pony in the booze stable, Capote simply called it his 'orange drink.Whether you’re reading the book or watching the movie, the Screwdriver (or its classier cousin, the Mimosa) will see you through." – Sherri Boggs

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BOOK:  Love in the Ruins by Walker Percy

Main alcohol: Giiiiin

DRINK:  Gin Fizz (late 19th-early 20th century, New Orleans)

"Dr. Thomas More, named after & descended from Sir Thomas More (the author of Utopia), is a small-town psychiatrist in Paradise, Louisiana. He’s invented the Ontological Lapsometer, a gadget that can diagnose & treat problematic mental states. He addresses his own difficulties less successfully: in spite of his egg-white allergy, he goes on a gin-fizz bender with his lover. 'These drinks feel silky & benign,' he notes—& after seven of them, he develops hives & begins to suffocate. Like his character, Walker Percy once went into anaphylactic shock after drinking gin fizzes, & as he wrote four years after Love in the Ruins:  “Anybody who monkeys around with gin & egg white deserves what he gets. I should have stuck with Bourbon & have from that day to this.” (A classic gin fizz, should you choose to monkey around with it, consists of 2 oz of gin, a dash of citrus, 1/2 teaspoon of superfine sugar, 1 egg white, & 3 ounces of soda water.)" – Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Main alcohol: Absinthe / champagne

DRINK:  Death in the Afternoon aka "The Hemingway" (1930s, Ernest

                      Hemingway, Paris)

"2 oz absinthe 4 oz Brut champagne – We know this cocktail is a Hemingway classic, but come on – what better to fuel your trip down the rabbit hole than a hallucinogenic, celebratory mix of absinthe & champagne?" – Emily Temple

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BOOK:  David Copperfield by Charles Dickens

Main alcohol: Rum

DRINK:  Punch (word comes from Sanskrit, brought to England from India by British

                      East India Company in early 17th century, current version influenced by 

                       Jamaican rum in 1655)

"Wilkins Micawber—a character based on Charles Dickens’ father, who also landed in debtors’ prison—has a rough lot in life. A proven pick-me-up when he learns his water will be shut off after failing to pay his bills? Per Copperfield, it’s mixology: 'To divert his thoughts from this melancholy subject, I informed Mr. Micawber that I relied upon him for a bowl of punch, & led him to the lemons. His recent despondency, not to say despair, was gone in a moment. I never saw a man so thoroughly enjoy himself amid the fragrance of lemon-peel & sugar, the odour of burning rum, & the steam of boiling water, as Mr. Micawber did that afternoon. It was wonderful to see his face shining at us out of a thin cloud of these delicate fumes, as he stirred & mixed, & tasted, & looked as if he were making, instead of punch, a fortune for his family down to the latest posterity.'" – Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  Dangerous Liaisons by Pierre Choderlos de Laclos

Main alcohol: Champagne (+ crème de cassis)

DRINK:  Kir Royale (early 1940s, Canon Felix Kir, France)

"1 oz creme de cassis, 5 oz champagne – Just like this scandalous epistolary novel, the Kir Royal is French, foppish, & very likely to put a few sexy ideas in your head."

– Emily Temple

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Main alcohol: Gin (many substitute vodka)

DRINK:  Classic Martini (mid-1800s, location disputed - most likely Gold Rush

                      California in Martinez and/or San Francisco)

"Shaken or stirred, dry or wet, gin or vodka, with a twist or olives, straight up or on the rocks… martinis can be made a variety of ways. In fact, one of the most famous references to a martini in pop culture is James Bond’s order, 'shaken, not stirred.' No matter what way you take your martini, you can never go wrong feeling like Mr. Bond. Thus, we recommend reading Mission Afghanistan by Elie Paul Cohen. This memoir of a Franco-British civilian emergency doctor turned liaison emergency doctor in Afghanistan reads like a spy thriller." – Spark Press

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BOOK:  Lick by Kylie Scott

Main alcohol: Gin (many substitute vodka)

DRINK:  Dirty Martini (mid-1800s, location disputed - most likely Gold Rush

                      California in Martinez and/or San Francisco)

"Lick by Kylie Scott is, without a doubt, one of my favorite rockstar romances of all time. Evelyn wakes up in Vegas, only to discover a diamond on her finger & a rock god by her side. Something that sounds like a dream come true...just not Evelyn’s dream. Fighting her undeniable connection with David & common sense that says you don’t marry a stranger you just met, she weaves her way through a tangled mess of ups & downs. Drink Recommendation: Even though shots play a huge part in this book, I’d advise you to go a different direction. I think a dirty martini is the perfect pairing for this story." – Alexa Martin

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BOOK:  Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie

Main alcohol: Whiskey

DRINK:  Hot Toddy (1700s, Scotland)

"A hot toddy seemed like the perfect warm, cozy drink for this cozy mystery. The old world charm of this drink fits the ethos of the novel perfectly, & is the best mug of deliciousness to sip while you get lost in the drama going on inside the train stuck in the snow." – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  At the Water's Edge by Sara Gruen

Main alcohol: Scotch whisky

DRINK:  Rob Roy (1894, Waldorf Astoria Bar, NYC)

"At the Water’s Edge is a fresh take on World War II fiction. The Hydes are American socialites who get cut off by Ellis’s father after Ellis is ineligible to serve in the war because of his color blindness. Ellis decides his only option is to hunt down Scotland’s infamous Loch Ness monster, a feat his father dreamed of but never accomplished. His wife, Maddie, may not be totally on board with her husband’s plan, but she can’t deny that this move to Europe has opened her eyes to the harsh realities of life. Is this fool’s mission actually a blessing in disguise? The Rob Roy is a Scotch cocktail named after a Scottish folk hero. The Hydes have moved to Scotland, after all, & it’s only right that you & your book posse down something that pays homage to their new home. A fun, themed drink will help bring this historical fiction to life!" – Nicole Lewis

Contemporary Cocktails

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BOOK:  The Magicians by Lev Grossman

Main alcohol: Lillet blanc & bourbon

"The Magicians is a pretty dark & twisted fantasy novel; it follows Quentin Coldwater as he attends Brakebills, a college of magic in New York. I wanted to focus on the first half of the book, when Quentin & his friends spend their time drinking in the Cottage & hosting elaborate dinner parties (complete with magical moving ice sculptures showing Zeus & Leda). I think this “Sunday in the Park” Lillet cocktail would be perfect for drunk games of welters. It’s an herbal concoction of Lillet, Bourbon, herbs, & simple syrup. It can be as light or as strong as you want, so Eliot can add as much extra bourbon as his heart desires." – Jessica Wang

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BOOK:  An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

Main alcohol: Rum & coffee brandy

DRINK:  Black Maria

"Often touted as The Hunger Games meets Game of Thrones, this young adult bestseller is intense. Laia is a Scholar who lives with her older brother & grandparents, and one night, their home is raided & her brother is taken for treason. She learns that he was part of the Resistance, a secretive movement bent on wrestling control from the Martials. She also learns her deceased parents were leaders of the movement, and in their memory, she asks for the Resistance’s help in rescuing her brother. They will do it...for a price: Laia has to infiltrate the Martial military school & get close to the Commandant, the terrifying, sadistic woman who runs it. What Laia doesn’t anticipate about her mission is getting close to a boy named Elias, a top soldier at the Academy. You should pair this read with the Black Maria, a rum & coffee drink. Rum is actually quite a thematically appropriate beverage — it was used to finance the American Revolution. If you’re hosting this book club during brunch, the coffee-flavored liqueur will go great with breakfast food. Plus, you could rename it the Blackcliff Laia to fit the novel." – Nicole Lewis

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BOOK:  The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Main alcohol: Hard cider & whiskey

"You're obviously going to want something that looks elegant & a little magical for this one; something that wouldn't be out of place at Le Cirque des Rêves. Glassware & dry ice will be key for the full effect, but we chose a drink that reminded us of a grown up version of caramel apples at the circus. This one is a little sweet, a little fizzy, but has a sterner backbone thanks to the whiskey. With the apple & ginger flavors, it just hits all the right notes for fall." – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  The Never List by Koethi Zan

Main alcohol: Scotch whisky

DRINK:  Dark Rum & Citrus Slipper

"If you liked Still Missing then you’ll love The Never List & pair it with a boozy Dark Rum & Citrus Sipper. Kidnapping stories are the stuff of nightmares, & Koethi Zan excels at this dark storyline in her novel, The Never List. Best friends Sarah & Jennifer are obsessed with their own personal safety, so they create a Never List, a list of things they will never do to avoid putting themselves in precarious situations. But the list fails them just one time, & they are both kidnapped. Years later, Sarah must face the trauma of her experiences again when she is given the chance to find out what happened to Jennifer once & for all. This engaging but heavy read deserves a boozy companion. To make the Dark Rum & Citrus Sipper, combine dark rum, simple syrup, lime juice & orange liqueur as a companion for this dark novel." – Swapna Krishna

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BOOK:  Circe by Madeline Miller

Main alcohol: Scotch whisky

"Circe is a reimagining of the classic Greek myth, so we chose a cocktail that incorporates classic Greek flavors & is as yellow as Circe's famous eyes. Honestly, it tastes like a tasty, alcoholic falafel. Something about the herbs & all the botanicals in the gin just mix up nicely together, & give a really mediterranean feel. I guarantee this drink will be on repeat this summer around here!" – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  Almost Famous Women by Megan Mayhew Bergman

Main alcohol: White rum & amaretto (+ sweet vermouth)

"If you want to shake up your club in more ways than one, assign the short story collection, Almost Famous Women. Bergman uses her imagination to craft some compelling tales about real-life women who were in the shadows of their famous family members or lovers. There’s 'Joe' Carstairs, an oil heiress with a passion for men’s clothing & speedboat racing; Dolly Wilde, niece of Oscar Wilde; conjoined twins Daisy & Violet Hilton; & more. The combination of reality & fiction is intoxicating, & it’ll make you curious to learn more about the women Bergman highlights. In honor of the veritable smorgasbord of unconventional women, it only makes sense to prepare a drink that involves multiple spirits. The Golden Friendship is a great option, & the name symbolizes the way you may feel after discussing this book with your favorite ladies!" – Nicole Lewis

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BOOK:  The Girls by Emma Cline

Main alcohol: Everclear & strawberry wine

"In The Girls, author Emma Cline takes the power of friendship & turns it on its head. In 1960s California, a lonely teen named Evie meets a group of girls who intoxicate her. She quickly attaches herself to one of these magic girls, Suzanne, following her into the depths of a cult. It is clear that Suzanne only has eyes for Russell, the cult leader, so Evie takes it upon herself to do whatever he wants in order to gain favor with Suzanne. Soon, Evie is serving two leaders, performing increasingly demeaning tasks so that she can hold on to the feeling of love & acceptance. Based on the story of Charles Manson, The Girls follows Evie’s life as it takes a violent turn that she never could have anticipated when she first stepped foot on Russell’s ranch. In a nod to the phrase 'drinking the Kool-Aid,' a spiked punch is a great choice for your book club discussion of The Girls. Evie made a mistake that you have likely never experienced, but you will empathize with her story because all she really wanted was to feel that she belonged." – Nicole Lewis

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BOOK:  Love Water Memory by Jennie Shortridge

Main alcohol: Tequila (+ vanilla liquor)

DRINK:  Jalapeño-Vanilla Margarita

"If you liked Remember Me? by Sophie Kinsella, then you’ll love Love Water Memory by Jennie Shortridge & pair it with a Jalapeño & Vanilla Margarita. Love Water Memory features Lucie Walker, who wakes up in the hospital with no memory of who she is. But this Lucie is very different from her old self, as the fiancé she doesn’t even know tells her. As Lucie explores her old life & tries to understand the psychological traumas that caused her to lose her memory in the first place, she must figure out who she is & what she really wants out of life. This easy read needs a tasty drink that has enough of a kick to make you remember all those important things you’ve forgotten. To make a Jalapeño & Vanilla Margarita, combine a jalapeño pepper with vanilla liqueur, agave nectar & light tequila to make a drink worth remembering." – Swapna Krishna

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BOOK:  The Secret History by Donna Tartt

Main alcohol: Rye whiskey (+ fernet branca)

"[The Secret History] calls for a sophisticated sipper that reeks of autumn. The main characters are all too cool for school, generally elegant, & a little mysterious. This drink evokes all those things & tastes exactly like fall in your mouth. Plus, poured into a martini glass, it looks especially chic." – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  The Sound & The Fury by William Faulkner

Main alcohol: Bourbon or rye whiskey, cognac, rum, & champagne

"Though we’re not sure that the man who famously opined that 'civilization begins with distillation' would go to all this trouble to get some drink in him (we’ve heard he favored the Mint Julep, or a whiskey), the rest of us get a little slack. After all, a complex, maddening, amazing Southern classic deserves to be drunk while reading one of the same." – Emily Temple

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BOOK:  The Hopefuls by Jennifer Close

Main alcohol: Coconut vodka

"The Hopefuls is a perfect summertime read for your book club. The novel follows Beth as she embarks on a new life in the political circles of Washington, DC. It contains all the elements that will keep you flipping pages while you lounge under your beach umbrella – new starts, gossip, a marriage in trouble, & a lot of would-be politicians. Naturally, the best pairing for a summer read is a cool summer drink, & given the nature of this book, we had to choose one that was politically themed. Fixing a batch of Yankee Doodles for your guests is a surefire way to get them in the mood to dish about young couple Beth & Matt & their time in DC." – Nicole Lewis

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BOOK:  A Duke By Default by Alyssa Cole

Main alcohol: Scotch whisky (+ elderflower liquor)

DRINK:  Glasgow Mule

"Tavish McKenzie doesn’t need a rich, spoiled American telling him how to run his armory...even if she is infuriatingly good at it. Tav tries to rebuff his apprentice – & his attraction to her – but when Portia accidentally discovers that he’s the secret son of a duke, rough-around-the-edges Tav becomes her newest makeover project. Forging metal into weapons & armor is one thing, but when desire burns out of control & the media spotlight gets too hot to bear, can a commoner turned duke & his posh apprentice find lasting love? Not only is Alyssa Cole one of my favorite authors out there, but A Duke By Default was one of my top reads of the year. The setting: Scotland. The hero: A moody sword maker who just happens to be a Duke. The story: Freaking delightful. Portia Hobbs is one of my favorite heroines of all time. She is smart, she speaks her mind, she takes no crap, & yet, she still struggles with thoughts of self-doubt that we can all relate to. Tavish, with his Scottish brogue & dedication to underprivileged children in his community, takes responsibility for his actions & moods & makes sure Portia knows how appreciated she is. This is the love story of my dreams. Drink Recommendation: Glasgow Mule. This delicious spin on the Moscow Mule swaps vodka for whiskey & is delightful counterpart to a delightful book!" – Alexa Martin

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BOOK:  Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel

Main alcohol: Mead (+ gin & campari)

DRINK:  Blood & Honey

"Wolf Hall takes place in 1500 England & follows the rise of Thomas Cromwell, chief minister to King Henry VIII. I can’t really picture Thomas Cromwell drinking anything but pints of mead & ale, but just humor me here, okay? I imagine that if a local pub created a cocktail in his honor, they would come up with something similar to Cornish Mead Co.’s Blood & Honey. The only catch is they would maybe use the actual blood of the people that Cromwell has defeated… Yikes!" – Jessica Wang

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BOOK:  Cannery Row by John Steinbeck

Main alcohol: Beer

DRINK:  Beer Milkshake

"Doc is the smartest man on Cannery Row, & he’s obsessed with a particular drink: 'He wondered what a beer milk shake would taste like. The idea gagged him a bit but he couldn’t let it alone. It cropped up every time he had a glass of beer. Would it curdle like milk? Would you add sugar?' His is a love that dare not speak its name: 'If a man ordered a beer milk shake, he thought, he’d better do it in a town where he wasn’t known. But then, a man with a beard, ordering a beer milk shake in a town where he wasn’t known–they might call the police.' Since 2012, the curious can indulge urges like Doc’s burgers-and-beers joint Red Robin, which serves shakes made with vanilla soft serve and either Blue Moon & Cointreau or Guinness & Jameson." – Lauren Oster

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BOOK:  The Execution of Noa P. Singleton by Elizabeth L. Silver

Main alcohol: Champagne

"If you liked Gone Girl, then you’ll love The Execution of Noa P. Singleton & pair it with a Wild Hibiscus Champagne Jelly Cocktail. Readers who love twists & turns that mess with their minds will love [this book] by Elizabeth L. Silver, about a young woman on death row. Noa had so much promise, so much going on in her life, so why did she murder another young woman? The woman who pushed hardest for Noa to receive the death penalty, the victim’s mother, comes to Noa offering a reprieve in exchange for the real reason behind her daughter’s death. Pair this twisty novel with a twisty, cross-genre cocktail. To make the Wild Hibiscus Champagne Jelly cocktail, combine champagne with hibiscus syrup & gelatin powder to make a solid cocktail you won’t soon forget." – Swapna Krishna

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BOOK:  You Think It, I'll Say It by Curtis Sittenfield

Main alcohol: Rosé (+ brandy & grand marnier)

DRINK:  Rosé Sangria

"Timely & pitch perfect, this short story collection explores the intimate corners of people's lives in a way that is nuanced & relatable. A trendy wine mixed with a jumble of flavors that meld together perfectly? Sounds like the perfect alcoholic embodiment of this book!" – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Main alcohol: Tequila or vodka & limoncello

"Fight the evils of book burning with a little liquid fire of your own. Ray Bradbury’s 1953 novel about a dystopian America in which books are outlawed & firemen are charged with destroying contraband would seem to suggest something in the cinnamon schnapps oeuvre. However it seems wrong to subject something as sublime as this book to such icky-sweet brand name liqueurs as Hot Damn!, Aftershock, or Fireball. Opt instead for a Jalapeño Tequila Gimlet or even the LA-based Literati Bar & Grill’s own Fahrenheit 451, a piquant mix of grapefruit, red chilies, vodka & Limoncello." – Sherri Boggs

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BOOK:  The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls

Main alcohol: Bourbon

DRINK:  The Millionaire

"With a movie adaptation on the way, now is the perfect time to pick up Walls’s memoir about her childhood. Rex & Rose Mary Walls are loving parents, but they aren’t perfect. Rex has a drinking problem, & Rose Mary can never bring herself to adhere to the more conventional methods of motherhood, often to the detriment of her children’s safety. As such, Jeannette & her three siblings lived a migratory life in & out of poverty. The only constant was Rex’s dream: Building a glass castle they could all live in. The Millionaire is a bourbon-based drink that perfectly encapsulates Rex Walls & his delusional view of the world. Bourbon comes from humble beginnings — it’s distilled from corn yet creates this creamy, sophisticated drink. Can’t you just see Rex drinking one of these while dreaming about his beautiful glass castle?" – Nicole Lewis

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BOOK:  The Legend of Sleepy Hollow by Washington Irving

Main alcohol: Bourbon

"Keeping it classic for this classic short story with a highly appropriate pumpkin twist. Of course, in the story the Headless Horseman famously chucks his head at Ichabod, & the next morning only hoof prints & a smashed pumpkin remain. If you like old fashioned's, you'll love this autumnal take on it!" – The Arden Biblio

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BOOK:  East of Eden by John Steinbeck

Main alcohol: Vodka

"This novel, set in rural Salinas, CA is rife with farms & fresh produce, which are central to the characters & plot. To capture that old-timey rural farm effect, we chose to spike some fresh blueberry-mint lemonade with a bit of vodka. This was especially wonderful as my mint plant is exploding right now, and what better way to use it?" – The Arden Biblio

Like this list? Check out 5 Creative Cocktails Based on Books from Electric Lit / D.C. bar Petworth Citizen's mixologist.

Sweets

BOOK PAIRINGS: SWEETS

What is it?

This list is a compilation of 3 found lists: 1) 7 Dessert-and-Book Pairings That’ll Hit Your Sweet Spot by Kelsey Radomski from Get Literary, 2) 20 Desserts Inspired by Your Favorite Books by Shari's Berries, & 3) Perfect Pairings: Desserts and Romance Tropes! by Melissa Haskins from Frolic.  Descriptions are from the original posts - credit to OP authors.

​

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WHEN WE WERE VIKINGS + PB BANANA SHAKE

"Twenty-one-year-old Vikings enthusiast Zelda lives with her older brother Gert, enjoying the simple things in life such as communicating in code and eating sandwiches with the tomato in the middle to ensure the bread doesn’t get wet. When she discovers her brother has resorted to some shady means of supporting the two of them, she undertakes a quest to save Gert from a bleak fate. When We Were Vikings details an adventure in which our plucky heroine is put in the crosshairs of some nefarious enemies while navigating life’s common joys & tragedies. Much like the unexpectedly delicious combination of peanut butter & banana, Zelda is an unlikely star who proves we are all legends of our own making." – Kelsey Rodomski

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BEHIND EVERY LIE + DEATH BY CHOCOLATE CUPCAKE

"When you’re in the mood for something dark & decadent, you can’t go wrong with a Death by Chocolate Cupcake & a suspense novel propelled by intense family secrets. Eva Hansen doesn’t remember the murder of her mother, Kat. She barely remembers gaining consciousness in the street after being struck by lightning. However, this is no cause for the police to rule her out as a suspect. To prove her innocence, she returns to her mother’s home in London & uncovers a string of secrets Kat tried so hard to keep buried long after her death. This emotionally resonant thriller, rich with mystery, will keep you on edge until the last book & cupcake bite." – Kelsey Rodomski

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ON THE ROAD + APPLE PIE A LA MODE

"Jack Kerouac is a major figure of the post-WWII era. His descriptions of Sal eating apple pie & ice cream – 'it was getting better as I got deeper into Iowa, the pie bigger, the ice cream richer" – make [that dessert] the perfect compliment to this novel." – Sherri's Berries

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RAGE BAKING + ZESTY LEMON BARS

"Anyone else bake when they’re stressed? The 2016 election brought a lot of rage, fury, & frustration to kitchens all over the nation. Both dough & emotions rise in this compilation of recipes, inspirational essays, reflections, & interviews with well-known & impassioned women bakers & activists, including Dorie Greenspan, Ruth Reichl, Carla Hall, Preeti Mistry, Julia Turshen, & many more.

This timely collection packs a powerful punch with a side of sugary zing."

– Kelsey Rodomski

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THE CHILL + PEPPERMINT ICE CREAM

"In Scott Carson’s horror/disaster novel The Chill, cold-hearted Manhattan politicians felt not so much as a pang of remorse at signing away the land of the Chilewaukee people in upstate New York to ensure clean drinking water for the city in the early twentieth century. To accommodate a new reservoir, the town was basically drowned & countless local families were pushed out of their homes—except some didn’t actually leave, creating a dark prophecy that surfaces nearly a century later. When a modern-day inspector assigned to oversee the dam witnesses something inexplicable, those who remember the Chill are not shocked by his discovery. They are merely waiting to see who the reservoir will claim as its next victim...Like peppermint ice cream, The Chill is crisp, original, & worth the price (hello, brain freeze) of downing in an icy rush." – Kelsey Rodomski

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THINGS IN A JAR + DARK CHOCOLATE MOUSSE

"Fierce detective Bridie Devine is used to solving mysteries, but the kidnapping of Christabel Berwick has her flummoxed. The secret daughter of Sir Edmund Athelstan Berwick, Christabel is rumored to possess supernatural qualities at a time when unique individuals are subject to exploitation as 'curiosities'. In her search for the child across Victorian London, Bridie engages the help of an unforgettable crew, which includes a seven-foot-tall housemaid & a melancholic, tattoo-covered ghost. Jess Kidd adds layer upon rich layer to this dark, Gothic mystery with fairy-tale elements as Bridie trades digging into unsavory truths from her own past in return for finding the troubled girl before time runs out."

– Kelsey Rodomski

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THE HOUSE ON MANGO STREET + MANGO POPSICLES

"The story of Esperanza & her family moving from neighborhood to neighborhood in Chicago is an emotionally intense one. However, it can be lightened with a mango Popsicle, as Esperanza recalls, "fat Popsicle lips" is the distinction between her sisters & herself."

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NAME DROP + CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES

"The lid comes off the box of chocolates as RuPaul’s Drag Race judge Ross Mathews delivers one delicious morsel after another in an anthology of the most treasured & surprising moments of his celebrity-filled career. Pop-culture addicts won’t be able to help themselves as they devour his recollection of Christmas with the Kardashians or the days he spent behind the scenes interning at The Tonight Show with Jay Leno. He may be a recognizable face himself these days, but this hilarious, accessible batch of essays (accompanied by tasty cocktail 'Rossipes') proves he can still be just as much of a star-struck fan as the rest of us."

– Kelsey Rodomski

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JANE EYRE + CARAWAY SEED CAKE

"Jane Eyre is a novel that was arguably ahead of its time. Nevertheless, the consumption of the popular & traditional seed cakes–one of the most common desserts in the 19th-century Britain–was very much in line with the times. Seed cakes are also a nod to the sociopolitical issues explored in the novel."

– Sherri's Berries

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MARRIAGE ON MADISON AVENUE + ALMOND CAKE WITH BLUEBERRY FILLING

"Audrey Tate has never been tempted to cross the platonic boundary with her old childhood friend Clarke West, who’s now a charming playboy. The two have been in cahoots for years in order to help Clarke dodge the schemes of his matchmaking mother, but with this final installment of the Central Park Pact series comes the ultimate curveball: the announcement that Clarke is engaged once again—only this time to Audrey. What happens when you combine a mild-mannered sweetness with explosive flavor? Just-for-show kisses begin to stir up forbidden desires between the couple, & the two come to realize they can never go back to the way things were. Will the heat in the kitchen bring disastrous

results or can this new combination of feelings serve up something sweet (much like what happens when you add blueberries to almond cake)?" – Kelsey Rodomski

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CHOCOLAT + CHOCOLATE-COVERED STRAWBERRIES

"If there is one book that inspires eating sweets, it is Chocolat. Amongst the unique blends such as rose petals covered in sugar, nougatines, & zesty orange twists, there is no doubt that chocolate-covered strawberries will complement all the flavors in this delicious read." – Sherri's Berries

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THE GREAT GATSBY + LEMON CAKE

"Nick was known for his ostentatious nature, which was on full display when he invited Gatsby & Daisy over for a tea party–which included the 12 lemon cakes he served. Of course, there's something to be said for his choice of cakes, as lemon cake goes perfectly with the 1920s era novel." – Sherri's Berries

Bonus! Romance tropes (+ an example book) paired with desserts (+ recipes)

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"ENEMIES TO LOVERS" + CHOCOLATE RASPBERRY MOUSSE CAKE

"Sweet, soft, tarty, chocolate & something a little...different. Wait, am I describing the cake or the 'enemies to lovers' trope? Both, always both! With this cake, you get many layers. Instead of the safe strawberries & chocolate, try something that has a little tartness to it, just like enemies-to-lovers can be tart to one another!"

THE BOOK: "This book has a little bit of everything, just like the many layers of that raspberry cake!" – Melissa Haskins

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"WORKPLACE ROMANCE" + RED VELVET CHEESECAKE CUPCAKES

"These cupcakes are perfect for any 'workplace romance' trope because you can casually make them, bring them into work (a win for everyone) & you can bribe your co-worker into doing whatever it is you have planned! Just be careful when it comes to pacts because like these cupcakes you might just fall head over heels in love!"

THE BOOK: "What could be a better workplace romance than asking your fellow co-worker to well knock you up? If this is your plan (in real life), then obviously sway them with red velvet cheesecake cupcakes and you just might get your cake & eat it, too!" – Melissa Haskins

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"BAD BOY & GIRL NEXT DOOR" + CHERRY PIE ENVELOPES

"Cherry Pie...well I feel like I don’t really need to explain why this is the perfect desert pairing for 'Girl Next Door falls for Bad Boy'. I will tell you that I picked

this desert because it’s not just a normal pie, it’s a cute little pie in a pastry envelope, which takes a little more time to make and, like our male MC, will take patience to get a handle on, but once you get to the good stuff, it’s going to be oh so worth it!"

THE BOOK: "Pen pals for seven years & forming an friendship you can only have when you don’t know what the other one looks like? They were perfect for each other until they met… if that doesn’t sound like the best story to read over cherry pie, then I don’t know what is!" – Melissa Haskins

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"I JUST HAD MY HEART BROKEN & I'LL NEVER LOVE AGAIN" + OREO FUDGE BROWNIES

"Nothing says 'break up cures' like chocolate, brownies to be specific. Okay maybe anything & everything that is chocolate is fair game when you are mending a broken heart. The Oreo Fudge Brownies combine both brownies & our favorite midnight snack...Oreos...So, while you're curled up with your pan of brownies focus on someone else’s heartache. I’m not saying that it’ll cure your own, but maybe you can find something within the pages that makes your own heart mend & feel better. If not, at least you have the brownies!"

THE BOOK:"Perfect coming of age story, two people who are judged for their past mistakes, oh & a romantic history lesson on town made famous by a novel. HECK. YES! Trust, unlikely friendship, & a book – all things that make us go all ooey gooey, just like the brownies!" – Melissa Haskins

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"SIBLING'S BEST FRIEND" + WHITE CHOCOLATE MACADAMIA RASPBERRY CRAZY SHAKE

"Crazy milkshakes have taken over Instagram the past few years, and why not? They’re sweet, delicious & should really be off limits! Share [this shake] with a friend, or enjoy by yourself while you contemplate why having a crush on your older sibling’s best friend would be sweet, & off limits!"

THE BOOK: "They thought they were strangers, but nope! Turns out she’s his best friend’s very hot, very off-limits little sister! Will this be the best kept secret, or will this match go up in flames? Pair this book with a sinfully delicious milkshake & you can’t go wrong!" – Melissa Haskins

​

Like this list? Check out more book recommendation lists.

Cheeses

BOOK PAIRINGS: CHEESES

What is it?

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EVERY LIE I'VE EVER TOLD + CAMEMBERT

"Like a really excellent girl’s night in, full of gossip and laughter, Rosie Waterland’s latest book pairs perfectly with some beautiful French Camembert & champagne! Every Lie I’ve Ever Told is a raw, beautiful, sad, shocking – and very, very funny – memoir of all the lies we tell others & the lies we tell ourselves." – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

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ERNEST HEMINGWAY + CABOT CLOTHBOUND CHEDDAR

Try Hills Like White Elephants

"This traditional, natural-rind cheddar is a very straight forward cheese – it wins you over right away. No bull. Its taste is clear & concise, salty & sweet, yet there is a great deal below the surface.  Perfect for [Ernest Hemingway,] the writer known for his subtly. It takes a true cheese expert to identify the caramelized, sweet fruit & toasted nut flavors inside this cheese’s milky goodness. Once you taste it, it’s a little like the first time you realized what Hemingway was really talking about in Hills like White Elephants. The Cabot Clothbound is also the perfect party cheese to compete with La Tur – hear that Fitzgerald?" – Freddie Moore

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GRACELING + ENGLISH STILTON

"A strong cheese needs an equally strong female lead. Blue and Gorgonzola cheese have a very distinct flavour; they are bold, pungent & sharp. Katsa in Kristin Cashore’s Gracling, has very similar attributes. The beautiful teenager is a fierce & tough Lady, & has been graced with the power to kill. As the king’s niece, Katsa is forced to use her special talents as a thug.  Katsa struggles with how she can instead use that power as a positive tool to do good in her world. Enjoying this fantasy adventure novel is best with an English Stilton, & can easily be paired with a Port, whose sweet flavours will offset that of the salty and savoury Blue." – Angela, Windsor Public Library

LOOKER + GRUYERE

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"Looker by Laura Sims is a debut novel about a woman who becomes maniacally obsessed with the famous actress & her perfectly adorable family who live on the same street as she does in brownstone Brooklyn. What was once a harmless preoccupation with the actress turns into toxic, all-consuming envy after an encounter goes awry at the annual block party. Now you may be wondering why I picked Gruyère as the pairing because it’s not a Brooklyn artisanal cheese. Well, Gruyère is sweet but slightly salty, & it’s described (according to Wikipedia anyway) as creamy & nutty when young, becoming more assertive, earthy, & complex as it matures. The protagonist in this book is definitely nutty, assertive, & complex, but that’s not why I picked Gruyère. It’s because I live in Brooklyn, & when you raise kids in Brooklyn they come out precocious by osmosis, & this has been my son’s favorite cheese since he was five years old. True story: Sebastien came home from a playdate & his friend’s mom apologized because my son refused to eat the grilled cheese she offered with the only cheese she had on hand (he only eats Gruyère). I was very embarrassed, but I also imagine that this is something one of the actress’s kids in Looker would say too when offered American cheese." – Sienna Farris

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TOM ROBBINS + TALEGGIO

Try Still Life With Woodpecker

"An approachable washed rind, taleggio is funky yet somewhat familiar. Its raunchy taste can put off some people, but it’s unmistakably delicious (think Still Life with Woodpecker). The cheese is a little meaty, nutty, fruity, & earthy – with thick, playful, & almost pudding-like texture. Once you love it, there is no going back to simple cheeses – only the crazy mixed-up world of taleggio will do." – Freddie Moore

EIGHT HUNDRED GRAPES + BARELY BUZZED CHEESE

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"Sometimes I fantasize what it would be like if I left NYC & the world of publishing behind to spend my time at a vineyard in Sonoma or Italy. I would drink wine all day & maybe crush the grapes with my feet like they did on that episode of I Love Lucy. Have you ever been jealous of a fictional character? Well, I am jealous of Georgia, the main character in Eight Hundred Grapes, who grew up in Sonoma & whose family owns a vineyard! Georgia has a dreamy British fiancé who she is about to marry when she discovers a potentially deal-breaking secret one week before her wedding. Georgia leaves her home in Los Angeles & drives through the night to Sonoma to be with her family, who have all gathered at their acclaimed vineyard. When she arrives, she discovers that her fiancé is not the only one who has secrets. If you’re reading a book about vino, you better have some cheese on hand to complement all the wine you’ll be guzzling. And what better cheese to eat than Barely Buzzed, a cheddar-style cheese with a rind that is developed by hand-rubbing a combination of espresso coffee beans, lavender, & vegetable oil. You’re going to need that espresso to help keep you awake when you’re reading Eight Hundred Grapes all night." – Sienna Farris

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BEAUTIFUL RUINS + ITALIAN RICOTTA / MOZZARELLA

"Soft & fresh cheeses could use a light hearted book to go with it. They are also often matched with fruits & citrus flavours. What comes to mind in terms of a lovely beach read is Jess Walter’s Beautiful Ruins. Set along the idyllic Italian coastline along the Ligurian Sea, the novel travels back & forth between the small European town & modern day Hollywood. You’ll get a fictional glimpse into the set of Cleopatra, the life of Richard Burton, & the love of an Italian innkeeper. Pair Italian Ricotta & Mozzarella cheeses with some equally delicious Italian wines, such as a Pinot Grigio or Lambrusco." – Angela, Windsor Public Library

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JOYCE CAROL OATES + HUMBOLT FOG

Try Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been or Heat

"This is a classic from Murray’s Cheese – its ashy middle & layered texture make it the perfect cheese counterpart to Joyce Carol Oates. Its mysterious, yet tantalizing flavor has wooed the hearts of many, making it a staple at cheese tastings.  In the gourmet cheese canon, It's like the inevitable English class discussion of “Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been." It's hard not to love stories like “Heat,” that are layered, revealing only bits of the narrative at a time, making it a close cousin to the taste of Humbolt Fog." – Freddie Moore

YOU KNOW YOU WANT THIS + CHEESE POPCORN

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"You know how at the holidays someone always ends up sending you one of those big tubs of popcorn in three flavors: caramel, butter, & the cheese coated one that turns your fingers orange? I am obsessed with that cheese popcorn, & once I start I can’t stop. That’s why it’s perfect to pair with Kristen Roupenian’s You Know You Want This. This collection of short stories about sex, rage, & obsession will keep you turning the pages until the very end. The first story will have you hooked once you start reading about this couple who become turned on with their friend/roommate hearing them have sex, then watching them have sex...until they can’t be turned on without having sex with him too. You will be digging into that bucket of cheese popcorn while reading away, but you will need some serious napkins on hand so you don’t stain the book, because this is one you will be loaning to your friends. You don’t want them to think you are a slob, do you? Better yet, buy them a copy of their own because you will definitely want to keep yours, & that way too, no one will see your orange smudges." – Sienna Farris

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THE BOOK THIEF + PECORINO ROMANO & PARMIGIANO REGGIANO

"Hard cheeses like Pecorino & Parmigiano Reggiano are best paired with full-bodied whites, such as vintage Champagne or a red Valpolicella. These are best coupled up with an equally deep book. If you haven’t yet read The Book Thief, now would be the perfect time. This wildly popular novel from Markus Zusak follows young Liesel Meminger, a foster child living in World War II Germany. She quickly develops a deep bond with her new father, as well as the Jewish man who is hiding in their basement. It is a moving & inspiring novel that has touched the hearts of millions of readers." – Angela, Windsor Public Library

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JARULAN BY THE RIVER + COMTE

"This sprawling novel of grief, ghosts & love will make best friends with some aged Comte & some similarly aged Chardonnay. Best to take your time & savor every last morsel. Lily Woodhouse’s Jarulan by the River is a novel with the magic of Colleen McCullough, Bryce Courtenay & Cloudstreet." – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

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F. SCOTT FITZGERALD + LA TUR

Try The Beautiful and Damned

"This triple-crème cheese is decadent & worthy of any decadent West Egg socialite bash. La Tur is made of goat, cow, and sheep milk, & a go-to for those with well-rounded, luxurious tastes. Not to mention its cake-like rind & gooey, soft interior. It’s the perfect cheese to impress a woman like Zelda Fitzgerald & whisk her off to a night of drinking and dancing on table-tops." – Freddie Moore

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JUNOT DIAZ + EL TRIGAL MANCHEGO

Try The Brief Wonderous Life of Oscar Wao

"This is not your average Manchego. Like Diaz’s stories, this cheese is strict on structure & famous for its excellence & wide appeal. The cheese is made from fresh, 100% sheep’s milk from the rocky, central plateau of La Mancha, and aged to a rich, nutty, & gamey flavor. This cheese has great pride in its cultural roots (more Spain than the Dominican Republic), & shows this through its patterned, wax rind – a nod to the grass baskets previously used to form the classic Manchego." – Freddie Moore

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SCRUBLANDS + STEAK & CHEESE PIES

"A rural Australian town ravaged by drought is left reeling after a charismatic priest guns down five parishioners right in front of the church and is himself killed during the mass murder. When a journalist, Martin, goes to cover the one-year anniversary of the shootings, he begins to realize that the rumors that the priest had been a pedophile who was on the verge of having his secret exposed may be untrue. While Martin continues his investigation, the bodies of two German backpackers who went missing around the time of the shootings are found. This book will keep you guessing as to the motive behind the priest’s shooting spree and to whether there is a connection between the murders and the missing backpackers. While you’re trying to solve the mystery you should be eating an Australian Steak and Cheese Pie or two. You’re going to need all the sustenance you get can get to help you unravel the secrets in this town." – Sienna Farris

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AFTERNOONS IN ITHAKA + FETA

"Has there ever been a more perfect book & cheese match? From the first heady taste of tomatoes on home-baked bread in her mother’s village in Petalidi, to sitting at a taverna some 30 years later in Ithaka with her young family, Spiri Tsintziras goes on a culinary, creative & spiritual journey that propels her back & forth between Europe & Australia. Enjoy this charming memoir alongside a delicious mixed plate with lots of crusty bread, olives & Feta!" – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

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BOSSYPANTS + HAVARTI

"Havarti & Monterey Jack cheese, which are semi-soft & light, both deserve books that are pleasant & light. We can always use a little humour in our lives, & nothing is better than an entertaining read from our favourite comedians. These are all best with a Beaujolais or Chardonnay, to offer a balance of texture & flavour. Two ladies of laughter, Tina Fey & Chelsea Handler, both have novels that are amusing & witty, & will have you laughing out loud. Fey’s Bossypants is the story of a young girl growing up and living out her dreams; from starring on Saturday Night Live to leading in the critically acclaimed sitcom 30 Rock." – Angela, Windsor Public Library

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ARE YOU THERE, VODKA? IT'S ME, CHELSEA + MONTEREY JACK

"Havarti & Monterey Jack cheese, which are semi-soft & light, both deserve books that are pleasant & light. We can always use a little humour in our lives, & nothing is better than an entertaining read from our favourite comedians. These are all best with a Beaujolais or Chardonnay, to offer a balance of texture & flavour. Two ladies of laughter, Tina Fey & Chelsea Handler, both have novels that are amusing & witty, & will have you laughing out loud. Chelsea Handler has become the it-girl of celebrity roasts on her hit show Chelsea Lately, but before that she wrote Are You There, Vodka? It’s Me, Chelsea, which takes readers on a hilarious ride of stories dealing with her relationships & family." – Angela, Windsor Public Library

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VIRGINIA WOOLF + BAYLEY HAZEN BLUE

Try Mrs. Dalloway

"It would be too simple to say this is any ordinary cheese with the blues – it’s dense with flavor, care and feeling. The Bayley Hazen has a balanced mix of flavors that range from buttered toast, to chocolate & hazelnuts, & even the dark bitterness of liquorice. This Stilton-like blue is a mix of narratives – the Mrs. Dalloway of cheeses, if you will. It’s a delicious modern classic. Its taste, & the moment you first fell in love with it, will permeate in your memory for years. Don’t let this one get away." – Freddie Moore

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TONI MORRISON + L'AMUSE 2 YEAR AGED GOUDA

Try Song of Solomon

"This gorgeous, aged Gouda is true cheese candy. It has rich notes of hazelnut & caramel, & a deep, complex finish. A great cheese for a writer known for her intricate themes, vivid dialogue & skill for detail. Considering Morrison’s long & fruitful writing career, this refined, gracefully aged cheese is the perfect counterpart – full of well distributed protein crystals, for a captivating texture, & a rich, detailed flavor." – Freddie Moore

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DUNKIRK + AGED ENGLISH CHEDDAR

"Imagine yourself seated in the sunshine at a traditional pub with a Ploughman’s lunch (including a hefty chunk of sharp, aged cheddar) and a pint of beer, reading this dramatic WWII story. Now the subject of an epic motion picture from director Christopher Nolan, Dunkirk – the story Winston Churchill described as a ‘miracle’ is described by bestselling author Joshua Levine in its full, sweeping context." – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

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AMELIA GRAY + HUDSON FLOWER

Try Threats

"A young sheep’s milk cheese for a great, new writer. The decadent, young [Hudson Flower] cheese is rolled in flowers, lemon thyme, rosemary & elderberries – a dreamlike combination. This is a great pairing with the mysterious & surreal qualities of Gray’s first novel, Threats. There are so many gorgeous flavors in this cheese–it will have you questioning everything–its gorgeous rind & dangerous name. Hudson flower? There are no flowers on the Hudson River - what flowers? Where did these come from? But there is no need to worry, the berries used to flavor this cheese are no threat to your well-being. Go ahead, try it." – Freddie Moore

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BEAUTIFUL MESSY LOVE + PARMESAN

"What you’ll need: 1 x copy of Beautiful Messy Love by Tess Woods, 3 x very large glasses of Pinot Noir, a decent sized chunk of good quality Parmesan, quince paste & crackers, and a quiet night to yourself. A gorgeous, hard-hitting novel that touches on celebrity, asylum, cultural integration & family tragedy, this is a book with heart & soul." – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

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KEVIN WILSON + UP IN SMOKE CHEVRE

Try Tunneling to the Center of the Earth

"After reading “Blowing Up On the Spot” from Wilson’s first story collection, it’s hard not to associate him with a deliciously smoky cheese like this chevre wrapped in maple leaves. Not only has this cheese been smoked over alder & maple wood – its leaves are lightly misted with bourbon, giving it a taste reminiscent of barbecue. This cheese has a woodsy, small town feel to it & will make you want to gather around the campfire & leave your job at the Scrabble factory." – Freddie Moore

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HOUSE OF SPIES + DANISH BLUE

"The new perfectly crafted Gabriel Allon thriller would go best alongside a combination of creamy blue cheese, prosciutto & dried fig, with a generous glass of sparkling Shiraz to wash it down.  Silva has inherited the mantle of king of the spy thriller from John le Carré, & is taking the genre into the fascinating, terrifying world of 21st century espionage." – Harper Collins Publishing Australia

666 PARK AVENUE + SPRAY CAN CHEESE

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"Five years ago this really cheesy (you get where I am going here) show was on the air called 666 Park Avenue. It was about this fancy, yet haunted apartment building in Manhattan—it was a cross between Rosemary’s Baby & Gossip Girl, & I LOVED it. But, it got cancelled after one season (WHY?), & the last episode was a cliff-hanger! I was so happy when I found out that 666 Park Avenue was actually inspired by a book of the same name, so of course I bought it & devoured it! It’s about an American woman, Jane, raised by her overprotective grandmother in France, who meets an uber-wealthy & charming American guy named Malcolm Doran. After a whirlwind courtship & engagement, Jane leaves France & returns to New York with Malcolm. But before she leaves, she discovers that she has magical powers. Jane is going to need those powers when she meets Malcom’s family, one of the most powerful in New York, with some old magic of their own. You might be thinking, If this book is about rich people, why should I be getting out my favorite brand of spray can cheese and buttery crackers? Because this book is sooo bad, it’s good, just like that snack!" – Sienna Farris
*side note from the list compiler - I honestly don't think I realized this still existed

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EMMA STRAUB + CHEESE CURDS

"Playful, down to earth & incredibly addictive – these are characters that come to mind when I think of both Straub’s gorgeous prose, but are also arguable characteristics of another addictive classic – cheese curds. Straub may be a Brooklyn native, but she has a ton of ties to Wisconsin – the state known for its curds. Wisconsin is where she went to graduate school. It’s also the state both of her parents grew up -- where they met & eventually married each other. Plus, these curds pair excellently with a cold Brooklyn Lager. The best of both worlds. " – Freddie Moore

Try All Adults Here

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SHERIDANS' GUIDE TO CHEESE + ALL THE CHEESES IN THE BOOK

"After all of that cheese talk, you might find yourself looking for a book to help you seek out some other cheeses that you might want to eat when reading your favorite books. Sheridans’ Guide to Cheese is like a master class in cheesy goodness & it’s a complete guide for the novice or the expert. The book is written by two brothers, Kevin & Seamus Sheridan, who have been cheesemongers since 1995." – Sienna Farris

Bonus! Book + grilled cheese pairings

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THE LORD OF THE RINGS SERIES BY J.R.R. TOLKIEN

Bread: Chewy wheat. Homemade if you’ve got it, no shame if you don’t.

Cheese: Keep it simple with an aged cheddar.

Fillings: A couple strips of crispy bacon, thin-sliced tomato. A sprinkling of salt & pepper, because Samwise Gamgee says seasoning is important.

Optional pairing: Loaded baked potato soup.

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THE HATE U GIVE BY ANGIE THOMAS

Bread: Go with a milder tasting bread for this one, since you want the flavor of the cheese to really shine through.

Cheese: Thin-sliced Gouda.

Fillings: A scoop of cold leftover mac n cheese, spread in an even layer. Yes, this requires you to make macaroni n cheese from scratch first, have leftovers, & chill them (the chilling is to hold it all together; otherwise, your macaroni will tumble out of the sandwich before your bread crisps). No, this should not be a problem, because then you’ll have a grilled cheese sandwich & mac n cheese. As far as what type of mac n cheese to use? Keep it simple, no add-ins needed, & definitely no breadcrumbs on top. Avoid the boxed stuff. (This recipe works, but feel free to poke around the internet until you find one that sounds good to you).

Optional pairing: More mac n cheese. Also this shouldn’t actually be optional.

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FRIED GREEN TOMATOES AT THE WHISTLE STOP CAFE BY FANNIE FLAGG

Bread: Sourdough.

Cheese: Pimento (you can use store-bought, or make your own).

Fillings: A single layer of crispy fried green tomatoes.

Optional pairing: This sherried tomato soup would be heavenly.

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A SONG OF ICE & FIRE SERIES BY GEORGE R.R. MARTIN

Bread: Honey wheat.

Cheese: Brie.

Fillings: Pulled roast chicken (or, if you want to get adventurous, pigeon). Coat the inner side of one piece of bread with a thin layer of fig spread.

Optional pairing: Like a true Lannister, opt to swap out your soup for a glass of red wine.

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LITTLE FIRES EVERYWHERE BY CELESTE  NG

Bread: Thin-sliced English muffins.

Cheese: Havarti.

Fillings: A thin drizzle of hollandaise, a slice of ham, and an egg over easy.

Optional pairing: Mimosa. Not for dipping.

Like this list? Check out more book recommendation lists.

True Crime Podcasts

BOOK PAIRINGS: TRUE CRIME PODCASTS

What is it?

6 Books to Investigate Based on Your Favorite True-Crime Podcast is a book list by Sarah Walsh from Get Literary. Descriptions are directly from the original post - all credit to OP / Get Literary.

​

01

LISTEN

READ

MY FAVORITE MURDER

SAVAGE APPETITES

By Rachel Monroe

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"One of the things we love about Karen & Georgia on My Favorite Murder is how self-aware they are about their obsession with true crime & murder. If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t get enough of these violent, real-life stories, Savage Appetites by Rachel Monroe takes a look at our cultural fascination with violence, and relates it to four archetypes depicted by true stories Monroe has identified as a starter pack for true-crime addiction."

02

LISTEN

READ

THE MURDER SQUAD

I'LL BE GONE IN THE DARK

By Michelle McNamara

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"Regular listeners of The Murder Squad will no doubt remember show hosts Paul Holes & Billy Jensen’s involvement in the hunt for the Golden State Killer. In I’ll Be Gone in the Dark, you’ll learn how author Michelle McNamara—who coined the term Golden State Killer & brought the case back into the spotlight—first became obsessed with the hunt for the killer & worked tirelessly to uncover his identity until her untimely death. After McNamara died, Jensen stepped in to help finish writing her account of a horrific case that was finally solved, with the help of Holes, in 2018."

03

LISTEN

READ

DIRTY JOHN

DIRTY JOHN & OTHER TRUE STORIES OF OUTLAWS & OUTSIDERS 

By Christopher Goffard

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"Read the book that started it all! Dirty John & Other True Stories of Outlaws & Outsiders by Christopher Goffard contains the original newspaper story that inspired the Dirty John podcast. In the book, you’ll not only get another look at the conman known as Dirty John, but you’ll also dive into stories ranging from wrongful imprisonment to parents on death row and everything in between. This collection examines human nature at its best & worst in a unique format."

04

LISTEN

READ

IN THE DARK

HIGWAY OF TEARS

By Jessica McDiarmid

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"Avid listeners of In the Dark know about the problems in the criminal justice system, including the story of Curtis Flowers, who has been tried six times for the same crime over 21 years, as featured in Season 2 of the podcast. In Highway of Tears, Jessica McDiarmid examines the murders of Indigenous women & girls—caused in part by racism & lack of protection—as she pursues justice for their families. Be inspired to advocate for change in the justice system"

05

LISTEN

READ

UP AND VANISHED

COLD CASES: A TRUE CRIME COLLECTION By Cheyna Roth

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"Can’t get enough of cold cases such as those of Tara Grinstead & Kristal Reisinger on Seasons 1 & 2 of Up and Vanished? Get your fill of them in Cheyna Roth’s Cold Cases: A True Crime Collection, where you’ll learn more about the disappearance of Natalee Holloway, D. B. Cooper’s airplane heist, & more. The suspense will definitely get your adrenaline pumping!"

06

WATCH

READ

UNCOVER: NXIVM

CAPTIVE

By Catherine Oxenberg

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"Have you gone down a Wikipedia rabbit hole trying to learn more about the cult NXIVM after tuning into Season 1 of UncoverCaptive by Catherine Oxenberg is the perfect book for you. Oxenberg is not just a former Dynasty star & true-crime enthusiast—she’s actually a parent of a former member of NXIVM. In her book, Oxenberg shares what it was like to watch her daughter fall victim to this cult & how she eventually ended up saving her child."

Like this list? Check out more Get Literary lists.

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