Our Top Staff Picks for 2021

Working in publishing, we get to read a lot of books. Seriously, the TBR list never truly gets smaller.

This year, our team has read so many outstanding books it was hard to pick favorites. However, we’ve rounded up some of our top books of 2021 for you. See what made our list and why below!

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin

When I say “Madeline”, you say “Martin”! When I say “New York Times“, you say “bestseller”!

All kidding aside, The Last Bookshop in London by Madeline Martin is not only a NYT bestseller, but it’s a stunning historical fiction book that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire time you’re reading this beautiful novel. Grace Bennett moves to London (solo) in the year 1939, and gets a job in a bookstore that changes her life, all while London prepares for war as Hitler’s forces sweep across Europe. Grace quickly discovers the power of storytelling and how it helps unite community and hope. Highly, highly recommended.—Lindsey R., Senior Digital Marketing Manager, Harlequin Trade Publishing

Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers

Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers

Is there anything scarier than being 20-something?

From the first page, I was immediately drawn to Honey Girl by Morgan Rogers. The novel is a non-YA coming of age story that will leave you feeling ALL the feels. I could not put this book down from start to finish you’ll find yourself laughing one moment and crying the next. It’s emotional, heartfelt, and perfectly encapsulates one’s path to self-love.—Hodan I., Social Media Manager, Harlequin Trade Publishing

The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer

The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer

The Matzah Ball by Jean Meltzer was the first romcom book I’ve read in a very long time, and it was the most refreshing and necessary change that I didn’t know I needed! I smiled through the entire book and audibly laughed (a true LOL, you may say). Jean’s writing is so genuine and heartwarming that I truly felt like I knew the characters.

And not only that, the inclusion of Jewish words and traditions was fascinating and added the perfect layer to an already perfectly set up story (I also highly recommend listening to the audiobook while you read, it was the perfect companion as I also learned the proper pronunciation of words I wasn’t familiar with). If you’re looking for the perfect book to feel like a warm hug as you read, The Matzah Ball is the book for you.—Brianna W., Digital Marketing Coordinator, Harlequin Trade Publishing

Talk Bookish to Me by Kate Bromley

Talk Bookish to Me by Kate Bromley is a gem of a read for any and all rom-com lovers (like myself!)! From the enemies-to-lovers storyline to the books about books, it really has it all! It’s heartwarming and wholesome. Can’t wait to read Kate’s upcoming books!—Abi S., Social Media Coordinator, Harlequin Trade Publishing

The Warsaw Orphan by Kelly Rimmer

The Warsaw Orphan by Kelly Rimmer was hands-down one of my favorite books of the year! I decided to take this book with me on a 5 hour train ride and, boy, did I make a mistake as I was sobbing in public! However, as Kelly Rimmer would attest, there’s no better endorsement than seeing someone that into a book.

The story was so heartbreaking at times and it felt just so real. The characters were all loveable, flaws and all. I loved how to story unfolded and I could not put it down. I wholeheartedly recommend this book for any historical fiction lovers and anyone who needs a character or two to root for. —Katie D., Assistant Digital Marketing Manager, Harlequin Trade Publishing

What was the best book you read this year? Let us know in the comments below!

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