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If you're craving drama, sunshine, and page-turning stories set in idyllic coastal locations, Elin Hilderbrand delivers every single time. Known as the Queen of the Beach Read , Hilderbrand crafts unforgettable characters, tangled relationships, and secrets that simmer just beneath the surface. Here are five of her best island novels  — perfect for summer reading, book clubs, or escaping the day-to-day. 🏝 1. The Identicals Sisterhood. Secrets. Two rival islands. Identical twins Harper and Tabitha Frost have lived separate lives on Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. But when fate forces them to switch places, long-held resentments and buried truths come to the surface. This book is a smart, witty exploration of identity, family, and forgiveness. 💡 Perfect for fans of sister dramas, dual settings, and personal reinvention. 🌴 2. Winter in Paradise A husband's secret life on a Caribbean island change everything. When Irene Steele’s husband dies unexpectedly, she discovers he had a second life on the island of St. John. As Irene and her sons uncover the truth, they find more than just answers — they find new beginnings. This is the start of the Paradise Trilogy , full of sun, scandal, and soul-searching. 💡 Great for readers who love tropical escapes and juicy family mysteries. 🌞 3. Golden Girl A mother’s last summer to watch over her children — from beyond. After a fatal accident, novelist Vivian Howe is granted one last summer to observe her children — and three “nudges” to influence their lives. Funny, heartfelt, and magical, Golden Girl  is a story about motherhood, legacy, and the art of letting go. 💡 For readers who love emotional fiction with a touch of the supernatural. 💍 4. The Perfect Couple A dreamy Nantucket wedding. A dead body. And too many secrets. When a body is found on the morning of a glamorous wedding, police quickly realize that everyone has something to hide. With a sharp eye for social dynamics and a killer sense of suspense, Hilderbrand weaves a wedding weekend whodunit you won’t be able to put down. 💡 Now a Netflix series starring Nicole Kidman — and perfect for fans of Big Little Lies or The Guest List. 🏄 5. Summer of ’69 One unforgettable summer. Four very different siblings. Set during the tumultuous summer of 1969, this historical novel follows the Levin family as each sibling navigates personal change amid national upheaval. With Nantucket as the backdrop and the moon landing, Vietnam War, and civil rights movement setting the stage, Summer of ’69  is a nostalgic, powerful novel about growing up and growing apart. 💡 A great pick for fans of historical fiction, coming-of-age stories, and multi-generational family sagas. 📚 Ready to Escape? From the beaches of Nantucket to the secrets of the Virgin Islands, Elin Hilderbrand’s novels are tailor-made for beach bags, weekend getaways, or simply curling up with a glass of wine. 🛒 Shop these titles on our website - Click a title to order today! The Identicals Winter in Paradise Golden Girl The Perfect Couple Summer of ’69 💬 Join the Conversation Which Elin Hilderbrand novel is your favorite? Tell us in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @belleplainebooks using #IslandReadsWithElin !

Mitch Albom books There’s something deeply comforting about Mitch Albom’s writing. His stories don’t just entertain — they reach in . They sit with you in quiet moments, offering reflection, healing, and a gentle reminder that life, in all its messiness, is meaningful. If you're looking for stories that help make sense of grief, love, forgiveness, and second chances, these three books by Albom are a great place to start: 💫 The Five People You Meet in Heaven What if the afterlife wasn’t about golden gates and clouds — but about understanding your life in full? In this modern classic, Albom introduces us to Eddie, a seemingly ordinary man whose life had a greater impact than he ever imagined. After dying in a tragic accident, Eddie meets five people in heaven who each reveal how their lives were touched by his. This book reminds us that no act is too small, no life too insignificant. It’s a powerful message about how we're all connected in ways we rarely see. Why you’ll love it: Makes you rethink your own legacy A comforting take on what lies beyond this life Great for anyone reflecting on purpose or loss ⏳ For One More Day Imagine getting just one more day with someone you’ve lost. What would you say? What would you do differently? For One More Day  follows Chick Benetto, a man consumed by regrets and broken by life. Just when he feels there's no way forward, he’s given a miraculous chance to spend one more day with his late mother. What unfolds is a heartfelt journey of forgiveness, healing, and understanding. This book is especially poignant for anyone who has experienced grief — and wished, even for a moment, that they could turn back time. Why you’ll love it: Explores mother-child relationships with deep tenderness Speaks to the universal experience of loss Offers redemption and hope for wounded hearts 📖 Tuesdays with Morrie The book that started it all — and still one of the most beloved memoirs of our time. Tuesdays with Morrie  is the true story of Mitch Albom’s weekly visits with his old college professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is dying from ALS. Each Tuesday becomes a masterclass on life, love, work, death, and everything in between. With each conversation, Morrie imparts wisdom that is equal parts gentle and profound. This is not just a book about dying — it’s a guide on how to live. Why you’ll love it: Real-life inspiration and wisdom Emotional, honest, and deeply human Ideal for those seeking perspective or facing life transitions 🕊 When God Whispers Your Name ( Bonus Pick by Max Lucado ) While not written by Mitch Albom, this spiritual classic by Max Lucado resonates with similar themes — hope, grace, and the quiet power of God’s love. It’s perfect for readers looking to deepen their spiritual reflection alongside Albom’s emotional storytelling. 📚 Final Thoughts Mitch Albom’s books are more than just stories. They’re invitations — to reflect, to forgive, and to see the sacred in the ordinary. Whether you're going through a difficult season or just craving a soul-stirring read, these books offer something rare: comfort, depth, and perspective. Have you read one of these titles? Which one spoke to you the most? Let’s talk in the comments below.

In the world of middle-grade graphic novels, Nat Enough  by Maria Scrivan stands out as a relatable and heartwarming series that perfectly captures the struggles of growing up. From friendship drama to self-confidence issues, this series resonates deeply with kids navigating the challenges of middle school. What is Nat Enough About? The Nat Enough  series follows Natalie (Nat) , a middle schooler dealing with feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt. When her best friend drifts away to join the popular crowd, Nat embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning that she is more than enough just the way she is. As the series progresses through Forget Me Nat , Absolutely Nat , and Nat for Nothing , readers see Nat tackle new obstacles, from crushes to summer camp and even finding her hidden talents. Each book offers a heartfelt lesson wrapped in humor, engaging storytelling, and colorful illustrations. Why Kids Love This Series ✅ Relatable Characters:  Nat’s experiences mirror real-life middle school struggles, making her an easy character to connect with. ✅ Funny and Engaging Storytelling:  Maria Scrivan blends humor with important messages, keeping readers entertained while teaching valuable lessons. ✅ Vibrant Illustrations:  The colorful, expressive art style enhances the emotional depth of the story. ✅ Empowering Themes:  The series promotes self-acceptance, resilience, and the importance of true friendships. Perfect for Fans of… If your child loves Raina Telgemeier’s Smile  or Sisters , or Terri Libenson’s Emmie & Friends  series , they will love Nat Enough ! The blend of humor, heart, and relatable middle school experiences makes it a fantastic addition to any young reader’s bookshelf. A Must-Have for Parents, Teachers, and Librarians Not only is Nat Enough  entertaining, but it also serves as a great conversation starter  about self-esteem, kindness, and handling social challenges. Parents can use it to discuss friendship dynamics with their kids, while teachers and librarians will find it an engaging book to recommend in classrooms. Final Thoughts Maria Scrivan’s Nat Enough  series is more than just a graphic novel—it’s a confidence-boosting  and feel-good  read that every middle schooler can relate to. Whether your child has ever felt “not enough” or just loves a fun and engaging story, this series is a must-read ! 📖 Have you or your child read Nat Enough ? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Break Free from Debt with The Total Money Makeover Are you tired of living paycheck to paycheck? Do you feel overwhelmed by debt and uncertain about your financial future? Dave Ramsey’s The Total Money Makeover  offers a simple, actionable plan to help you take control of your money, eliminate debt, and build lasting wealth. Why This Book Is a Game-Changer for Your Finances 💰 Practical, No-Nonsense Advice  – Ramsey’s approach is direct and easy to follow, making financial success accessible for anyone. 📉 Proven Debt Reduction Strategies  – The book introduces the Baby Steps  and the Debt Snowball Method , helping you systematically pay off your debts. 🚀 Wealth-Building Techniques  – Learn how to save, invest, and secure a financially stress-free future. Key Takeaways from The Total Money Makeover 1️⃣ Create an Emergency Fund  – Avoid financial disasters by saving for unexpected expenses. 2️⃣ Pay Off Debt Using the Snowball Method  – Focus on small wins first to build momentum. 3️⃣ Stick to a Zero-Based Budget  – Give every dollar a job to maximize savings. 4️⃣ Invest for the Future  – Secure your retirement with smart investment choices. Who Should Read The Total Money Makeover? ✔️ Anyone struggling with debt ✔️ People looking to improve their money management skills ✔️ Young professionals wanting a solid financial foundation ✔️ Families looking to create financial security Final Thoughts: Is The Total Money Makeover Right for You? If you’re serious about taking control of your finances and achieving true financial freedom, this book is a must-read . With practical steps and real-life success stories, The Total Money Makeover  has helped millions turn their financial lives around—and it can help you too! 👉 Get your copy today and start your journey to financial freedom!   https://www.belleplainebooks.com/product-page/the-total-money-makeover-yourfinancial-freedom-guide 💰 START YOUR JOURNEY TO FINANCIAL FREEDOM AND SAVE 20% - USE COUPON CODE TotalMoney AT CHECKOUT https://www.belleplainebooks.com/product-page/the-total-money-makeover-yourfinancial-freedom-guide

Dan Brown is a name synonymous with thrilling, edge-of-your-seat novels that keep readers hooked from start to finish. Best known for his Robert Langdon series, his writing style is distinctive and engaging, often characterized by the following elements: Fast-Paced Narrative : Brown's novels are known for their quick tempo and short chapters, which keep readers on the edge of their seats. Cliffhangers : He frequently ends chapters with cliffhangers, prompting readers to continue to the next chapter to find out what happens next. Detailed Research : Brown incorporates a wealth of historical, scientific, and artistic details into his stories. His thorough research adds depth and authenticity to his fictional worlds. Complex Plots : His novels often involve intricate plots with multiple twists and turns. Brown expertly weaves together various narrative threads, which come together in unexpected ways. Symbology and Puzzles : A hallmark of his writing is the use of symbols, codes, and puzzles that characters must decipher to advance the story. This element engages readers' intellect and curiosity. Themes of Conspiracy and Secrets : Brown often explores themes related to hidden truths, conspiracies, and secret societies, adding an element of mystery and intrigue. Third-Person Point of View : He typically writes in the third person, providing multiple perspectives and insights into the minds of different characters. Visual Descriptions : His descriptive language paints vivid images of the settings, from historic landmarks to hidden chambers, which helps readers visualize the scenes. Educational Elements : Despite being fiction, Brown's novels often educate readers on a variety of topics, from art history to cryptography. His most notable works include "Angels & Demons," "The Da Vinci Code," "The Lost Symbol," "Inferno," and "Origin." These novels weave together elements of cryptography, art, and conspiracy theories, creating a rich tapestry of mystery and intrigue. Brown's achievements in the literary world are remarkable. His books have sold over 200 million copies globally and have been translated into 57 languages. In 2005, TIME Magazine recognized his influence by naming him one of the 100 Most Influential People in the World. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to his work, Dan Brown's novels offer an exhilarating journey through the world of secrets and codes. Prepare to be enthralled! Belle Plaine Books has the following Dan Brown books available: Angels & Demons Book 1 of the Robert Langdon series published in 2000 The story follows Harvard symbologist Robert Langdon as he is called to investigate the murder of a physicist at CERN. He discovers that the murder is part of a conspiracy involving the secret society of the Illuminati. Alongside scientist Vittoria Vetra, Langdon races against time to prevent a catastrophic event in Vatican City. The story takes readers to various iconic locations, including CERN in Switzerland and numerous landmarks in Rome, such as the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica, and the Pantheon. The novel delves into themes of science versus religion, the conflict between faith and reason, and the hidden influence of secret societies. It also explores the concept of antimatter and its potential uses. Inferno Book 4 of the Robert Langdon series published in 2013 In "Inferno," Harvard professor Robert Langdon wakes up in a hospital in Florence, Italy, with no memory of the past few days. He quickly discovers that he's at the center of a dangerous plot involving a biomedical crisis. Langdon, along with Dr. Sienna Brooks must decode clues related to Dante Alighieri's "The Divine Comedy" to prevent a global catastrophe. The story takes readers to several iconic locations, including Florence, Venice, and Istanbul, with detailed descriptions of famous landmarks like the Palazzo Vecchio, the Boboli Gardens, and the Hagia Sophia. The novel explores themes such as overpopulation, bioethics, and the influence of literature and art on contemporary issues. It also delves into Dante's work and its historical and cultural significance. Origin Book 5 of the Robert Langdon series published in 2017 The story follows Robert Langdon as he attends a presentation by futurist billionaire Edmond Kirsch at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao in Spain. Kirsch claims to have discovered the answers to humanity's two biggest questions: "Where do we come from?" and "Where are we going?". However, before he can reveal his findings, Kirsch is assassinated. Langdon, along with museum director Ambra Vidal, must uncover Kirsch's secret and reveal it to the world while evading deadly threats. Journey along to iconic locations in Spain, including the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Sagrada Família, and the Royal Palace of Madrid. Brown's detailed descriptions bring these landmarks to life. "Origin" explores themes such as the intersection of science and religion, the impact of technology on society, and the quest for knowledge and truth. It delves into questions about the origins of life and the future of human evolution. Have you read any of his books? If so, which one was your favorite? Happy Reading!

My mother had a passion for cooking, as a family, we often became reluctant participants in her daily culinary experiments. There was a time when I asked her not to tell me what she was cooking because, as a child, just hearing the name of a dish (like oxtail soup) could make me lose my appetite before dinner. Interestingly, the unnamed dinners often turned out to be the tastiest. The successful dishes earned a bookmark or folded page in the cookbook, while the unsuccessful ones were discarded along with the recipe. Her passion for cooking was matched only by her pursuit of tasty family recipes. Over the years, this pursuit led to an impressive collection of cookbooks, including those small specialty recipe booklets found at the grocery checkout. She even compiled her own cookbooks by clipping recipes from newspapers or magazines and arranging them in a binder for future reference, one of which she made for my 33rd birthday that I still often refer to. After Mom passed away, I inherited the majority of her cookbooks to include in my collection. One of my favorites is an old one that belonged to my grandmother, titled: Culinary Arts Institute Encyclopedic Cookbook . It was a Christmas gift from my grandfather in 1948. I am sure my grandmother did not find it amusing since, like me, she didn’t enjoy cooking.  Considering my collection, which is quite ironic! Honestly, we loved to eat but preferred that someone else managed the cooking and cleanup! Now, years later while I'm out selecting books for the business, I find myself drawn to purchasing cookbooks .  Like Mother, like Daughter, I'm sure both of our collections will continue to grow.

Is an American writer of romance, crime fiction, and suspense fiction who has written 105 books and has achieved an impressive milestone with more than 30 consecutive New York Times best sellers ! She began her writing career in the early 1980's after raising her children by writing romance novels. She changed direction slightly and began writing historical romantic suspense novels in 1991 starting with the publication of The Wind Dancer . On her website Johansen says she began writing romance novels because she loves happy ever after endings, but she wanted to challenge herself more. That led to her genre shift, following which she began the Eve Duncan series, featuring forensic sculptor Eve Duncan has been particularly successful, selling over 20 million copies worldwide. The second book in the series "The Killing Game" was adapted into a Lifetime television film in 2011 staring Laura Prepon as Eve Duncan with Noami Judd playing the role of Eve's mother Sandra Duncan. Johansen lives near Atlanta, GA and works very closely with her children. Her son, Roy Johansen, is an award-winning author and screenwriter and has co-authored series with his mother. Her daughter, Tamara, is her research assistant. Listed below is more information about the series of books we have available by this prolific author. The Eve Duncan series is about a fictional forensic sculptor known for her expertise in reconstructing the faces of victims from their skulls, helping to identify them. She has a tragic past that drives her dedication to her work—her daughter, Bonnie, was kidnapped and presumably murdered, and Eve has never given up on finding her daughter's remains and bringing her killer to justice. Throughout the series, Eve's work often draws her into dangerous situations as she assists law enforcement in solving cases. She is known for her resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to uncovering the truth. Her personal life and relationships, especially with her partner Joe Quinn and her adopted daughter Jane MacGuire, are also central to the series. The Eve Duncan series is beloved for its intricate plots, emotional depth, and strong, compelling characters. The first Eve Duncan trilogy  series in 2011 by Iris Johansen refers to a specific set of three novels within the larger Eve Duncan series that focus on Eve's search for her kidnapped daughter, Bonnie. This trilogy delves deeper into Eve's personal journey and her relentless pursuit of justice. The trilogy includes: Eve  - The first book provides a background on Eve Duncan's life, her early struggles, and the events that led to her becoming a forensic sculptor. It also explores her deep love for her daughter, Bonnie, and the devastating impact of Bonnie's abduction. Quinn  - The second book centers around Joe Quinn, Eve's partner and a former Navy SEAL turned Atlanta detective. It delves into his perspective, their relationship, and the lengths he goes to support Eve in her quest. Bonnie  - The final book in the trilogy brings Eve's journey to a climactic conclusion as she uncovers the truth about Bonnie's disappearance. It's an emotional and suspenseful story that ties together the threads of Eve's past and present. This trilogy is a must-read for fans of the Eve Duncan series, offering a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations. Catherine Ling Books  is another spin-off series from Iris Johansen’s Eve Duncan  series. Catherine Ling has been a CIA operative since she was fourteen and grew up on the streets of Hong Kong. Beginning with Chasing the Night  is the crossover novel where Catherine enlists the help of Eve Duncan to identity her son Luke's kidnapper. This series is filled with suspense, action, intricate plots making them a must for fans of crime fiction and espionage. The first series co-authored with her son Roy Johansen is the Hannah Bryson Books which consists of two books: Silent Thunder and Shadow Zone. They introduce the character Hannah who is a marine architect who gets involved in a dangerous adventure when she's tasked with inspecting a newly acquired Russian submarine. Both books are filled with suspense, action, and intrique. Another series co-authored with her son is the Kendra Michaels series  which follows Kendra Michaels, a former music therapist who was blind for the first twenty years of her life. After undergoing a stem cell procedure that restores her sight, Kendra discovers she has an extraordinary ability to observe and analyze her surroundings, making her a valuable asset to law enforcement agencies The Standalones Iris Johansen has published eighteen fiction standalones throughout her career as an author, these are great options without committing to a lengthy series.

The Maisie Dobbs series  by Jacqueline Winspear  is a fantastic blend of historical fiction and mystery. It follows Maisie Dobbs, a former World War I nurse turned private investigator, as she solves various cases in post-war England. The series explores the social and psychological impacts of the war and features compelling characters and intricate plots. Maise Dobbs Novel #8 The series is set between 1929 and 1945, and it beautifully combines elements of war stories, historical fiction, and mystery. It's well-loved for its depth of character and historical accuracy.  About Jacqueline Winspear * Jacqueline Winspear was born and raised in the county of Kent, England. Following higher education at the University of London’s Institute of Education, Jacqueline worked in academic publishing, in higher education and in marketing communications in the UK. She emigrated to the United States in 1990, and while working in business and as a personal/professional coach, Jacqueline embarked upon a life-long dream to be a writer—she subsequently became a regular contributor to journals covering international education and travel, and has published articles in the  Washington Post ,  Huffington Post ,  The Daily Beast  and other publications. Her short stories have appeared in magazines internationally, and Jacqueline has recorded her essays for KQED radio in San Francisco. She has contributed to several anthologies of essays and short stories. Jacqueline’s grandfather was severely wounded and shell-shocked at The Battle of the Somme in 1916, and it was as she understood the extent of his suffering that, even in childhood, Jacqueline became deeply interested in the “war to end all wars” and its aftereffects. As an adult her interest deepened to the extent that, though she did not set out to write a “war” novel, it came as no surprise that this part of history formed the backdrop of Maisie Dobbs and other books in the series. The unique and engaging character of Maisie Dobbs is very much a woman of her generation. She has come of age at a time when women took on the toil of men and claimed independence that was difficult to relinquish. It was a time when many women remained unmarried, simply because a generation of men had gone to war and not come home. “The war and its aftermath provide fertile ground for a mystery. Such great social upheaval allows for the strange and unusual to emerge and a time of intense emotions can, to the writer of fiction, provide ample fodder for a compelling story, especially one concerning criminal acts and issues of guilt and innocence. After all, a generation is said to have lost its innocence in The Great War. The mystery genre provides a wonderful vehicle for exploring such a time,” explains Ms. Winspear. Together with The Comfort of Ghosts (June 2024), Jacqueline has written 18 novels in the award-winning Maisie Dobbs historical mystery series Have you read any of these books, or is there a specific one you're interested in? Check out the selection available on our website: Fiction | Belle Plaine Books *Information obtained from jacquelinewinspear.com