These Literary Fiction Picks Will Shatter You—in the Best Way

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.Welcome back to the What to Read Next Podcast! In today’s episode, I’m joined once again by our resident literary fiction expert and middle grade author, Laura Bird. Laura is bringing us six stunning literary fiction reads that will break your heart—but leave you with hope. These are perfect picks for readers who want emotional depth, compelling characters, and a reminder of the beauty in human connection.Whether you're in a book club or simply want a novel to get lost in, this episode has a recommendation for you.⏱️ TIMESTAMPS & BOOK RECOMMENDATIONS00:00 – Welcome back Laura Bird! 01:00 – Why we love literary fiction with hopeful endings 02:45 – Books perfect for book clubs 04:05 – 📖 A Winter’s Rhyme by Carol Dunbar 07:20 – 📖 The Snowbirds by Christina Clancy 10:40 – 📖 A 40-Year Kiss by Nicholas Butler 14:00 – 📖 All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker 18:05 – 📖 Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo 21:00 – 📖 Margot’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe 25:30 – Mention of The Knockout Queen by Rufi ThorpeFeatured Book RecommendationsA Winter’s Rime by Carol Dunbar https://amzn.to/3Eb0eBtThe Snowbirds by Christina Clancy https://amzn.to/3RAxBAHA Forty-Year Kiss by Nicholas Butler https://amzn.to/4jjdvqxAll the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker https://amzn.to/4i4yyw3Same As It Ever Was by Claire Lombardo https://amzn.to/3R2U0qjMargot’s Got Money Troubles by Rufi Thorpe https://amzn.to/43JFrzyBonus MentionsCrossing the Pressure Line by Laura Anne Bird (middle grade) https://amzn.to/4iYiQ71Marvelous Jackson by Laura Anne Bird (middle grade) https://amzn.to/3FYQhrq👩‍💻 Connect with Laura Bird📚 Website: laurabirdbooks.com 📸 Instagram: @laura_at_the_libraryJoin the ConversationSubscribe to our Substack for exclusive recommendations. (wtrnblog.substack.com)Follow & Subscribe: What to Read Next Blog | YouTube: What to Read NextSubscribe & leave a review!