FIRST Book Club: ‘The Paradise Problem,’ ‘Good Material’ and More Recommended Reads for May 10 to May 16

“I picked this up expecting the story to be about a missing woman, but I was surprised to find that the ‘local’ in the title was a man. That intrigued me, and I dove in,” says Patty Bontekoe, FIRST Executive Editor. Detective Inspector Elise King is on medical leave after undergoing breast cancer treatment, and she’s desperate to get back to work. So when a man named Charlie Perry goes missing in her small town, she can’t help but start investigating on her own, with the help of her nosy neighbor Ronnie. “The story moves back and forth in time, told from the point of view of several characters, and it kept me engaged,” says Patty. “I kept trying to solve the mystery as I flipped each page.” (Berkley, 2022)

“It’s a good day when there’s a new release by the author duo Christina Lauren — and I couldn’t wait to escape into their newest novel,” says Melissa D’Agnese, FIRST Senior Editor. “This rom-com had me smiling from the start!” The story follows artist Anna Green, who married Liam “West” Weston four years ago for access to housing while at UCLA — and she thought she signed divorce papers when they graduated. Three years later, West, now a professor at Stanford, is set to receive a large inheritance…but only if he’s been married for five years. So West invites Anna on a family trip to act the part. Says Melissa, “This is slow-burn romance at its finest!” (Gallery, 2024)

“I was bummed when a weekend getaway was canceled, so I grabbed this summer romance as a virtual vacation that I could sink into from my living room couch,” says Rachel Cosma, FIRST Health Director. While vacationing on Prince Edward Island, Lucy falls for a local named Felix, who turns out to be her best friend Bridget’s brother. They know starting a romantic relationship is pretty much off-limits and vow to never repeat their steamy night again. Every summer, Lucy visits PEI to soak up the crisp ocean air, fresh oysters and catch up with her friend Bridget. But every time she’s there, Lucy and Felix just can’t seem to stay apart. Then when Bridget flees her hometown of Toronto and heads to the island to navigate a crisis, Lucy follows her to help…and has another run-in with Felix. How much longer will she be able to stave off her feelings? Says Rachel, “This was a dreamy story of romantic love, but it was also an ode to friends who feel like family.” (Berkley, 2024) 

“A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson is one of my favorite books, so I couldn’t wait to read this one!” says Carissa Mosness, FIRST Assistant Digital Editor. Ever since Bel’s mom, Rachel, disappeared 16 years ago, Bel has been trying to remember what happened. But when she agrees to make a true-crime documentary, Rachel turns back up with a wild story about what happened to her. If only Bel believed it. Says Carissa, “I couldn’t put this down and I was floored by the twist!” (Delacorte, 2024) 

“Last week, I received a jury duty notice in my mailbox, so I decided to get into the spirit by reading a courtroom drama,” says Kathy Fitzpatrick, FIRST Features Director. “And it was riveting!” Public defender Andy Hughes is assigned to a gruesome murder case. He feels duty-bound to give the strongest defense, even to those he knows are guilty, which is the case with accused killer Damian Bullins. Still, Andy is conflicted. Kathy says, “My verdict on this book: enthralling right down to the ending!” (Rare Bird, 2023)

“In the midst of a recent worry spiral, I picked up this book for reassurance,” says Emily Boyette, FIRST Associate Food Editor. Clinical psychologist Dr. Julie Smith offers tactics, skills and hacks to help you take control of your emotional and mental health. Whether you’re coping with depression, anxiety or lacking self-esteem, Smith breaks down easy strategies to help you better understand yourself. “This book comforted me,” says Emily. “And it helped me better navigate daily life!” (HarperOne, 2022)

“I always enjoy books with relatable main characters,” says Sienna Sullivan, FIRST Editorial Assistant. “And this one was a perfect fit.” This tale is an exposé on life after heartbreak and follows Andy, a 35-year-old man struggling with a dwindling comedy career and, most recently, an abrupt dumping by the long-term love of his life, Jen. As the story unfolds, it becomes an intriguing and witty commentary on post-breakup woes. Says Sienna, “Andy’s a perfectly imperfect protagonist who evokes a hearty laugh and a good look in the mirror!” (Fig Tree, 2024)