By: Amanda Peters

These recommendations from JLW members are the perfect way to relax and unwind during this winter season! 

Beauregard Bailey, the loyal sidekick of JLW member Desiree Carey, is right at home in the library! Discover our 8 JLW recommended books to cozy up with this season.

When asked for book recommendations, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) delivered! The books proposed ranged from romantic comedies to deep sorrowful memoirs, and everything in between. Discover what books JLW members recommend and maybe add a few to your list! 

 “I couldn’t put it down!” The Women by Kristen Hannah

1. The Women by Kristen Hannah
   This work of historical fiction follows the story of one brave woman who went to war and highlights the importance of women’s bravery in shaping American history.“I haven’t stopped talking about The Women by Kristin Hannah, which follows the story of fictional Frankie, a military trauma nurse in Vietnam and the aftermath of her return. While I knew that Vietnam veterans were met with hostility upon their return, I never knew that women were there too. They witnessed unspeakable things and I love that Kristin Hannah sheds light on this rarely-spoken aspect of American history.” – Brittany Higdon“I couldn’t put it down. It was a historical war story from a woman’s point of view and it hit on all the emotions.” – Tiffany Alati, Sustainer
2. The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
   A blend of time travel romance, spy thriller, and workplace comedy, this story dives into the nature of power and the potential of love.“My book club just read this book  and it made Obama’s summer reading list this year! I loved it! Romance, time travel, plus a dose of government bureaucracy — perfect for DC!” – Heather Callery, Sustainer

   
   Cover of “The Wedding People” “The best book I’ve read in 2024!”

3. The Wedding People by Alison Espach
   A funny and romantic novel about an unexpected wedding guest and how chance encounters can start a whole new journey.“This is the best book I’ve read in 2024! It has so many heavy topics, including infertility, divorce, and more, but it manages to be light, witty, and completely charming. I felt this book so deeply.” – Marta Hernandez, Sustainer
4. The One by John Marrs
   With one DNA test you could be matched with your soulmate – see what happens to those who do.“If you had the opportunity to provide your DNA in order to be genetically matched to your soulmate, would you do it? The book covers multiple people who took the chance. It was very interesting and brought up many questions about love and science.” – Shanika Sanders, New Member
   
   
   A voice for stories that matter! Reading enriches our lives and deepens our understanding.
5. The Postcard by Anne Berest
   This powerful work of historical fiction follows a Jewish family throughout a century in France, unveiling family history and identity along the way.“This is an emotional read that explores the complexity of family relationships, understanding of one’s personal identity, the power of resilience, and the horrors of the Holocaust. Originally written in French, the English translation is beautifully done. It is a powerful read focused around women, which is great for JLW members.” – Ellen McDonald, Folger Shakespeare Library Committee
6. Men Have Called Her Crazy by Anna Marie Tendler
   This memoir explores deeply personal stories through the unreasonable expectations women face today – ultimately delivering a message of hope.“This is a deeply personal book by a brilliant artist about mental health and gender. This book opened me up to thinking about my own life and creating more art from it.” – Lilly Strieder, Strategic Planning Committee
   
   
   “Lost in a world of words, with the iconic Sacré-Cœur as a backdrop.  A perfect moment of quiet reflection in the heart of Paris.”
7. Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
   Follow Evelyn Hugo as she recounts her glamorous and scandalous life as a Hollywood icon through seven marriages and one true love.“I enjoyed this book for its intriguing plot twists and glamorous portrayal of old Hollywood. The characters are compelling and the story keeps you hooked with its blend of drama, secrets, and romance.” – Emma Draper, Jubilee JumpStart Committee
8. Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
   As the current JLW Book Club pick, Lessons in Chemistry is about one woman’s journey overcoming the misogynistic 1950s to become a chemist and beloved cooking show host.“I selected this book because it highlights a woman who empowers herself and those around her despite personal hardships. I’d recommend reading it for the perspective of the main character, she’s both witty and enlightening!” – Victoria Tropiano, Esprit Committee Chair