Welcome back to Bookstr’s Three to Read! Right now, adaptations are in, with plenty of solid ones that dropped in 2022 and many more on the way in 2023. And, while I would much rather spend my time lost within the pages of a book, I do love a good movie or television show here and there. This January, lots of great new novels are coming out, some of which I think could totally make it to the big screen. So, without further ado, here are three new releases that should totally get adapted (Hollywood take notes!).
Hot Pick
All the Dangerous Things
by Stacy Willingham
SYNOPSIS:
One year ago, Isabelle’s life flipped upside down. One night, her toddler, Mason, was stolen out of his crib while she and her husband were asleep in the next room. Unfortunately, due to a lack of evidence and limited leads, the case went cold. Ever since that night, Isabelle hasn’t slept, aside from the occasional nap or brief blackout. Her entire existence now revolves around finding her little boy.
In an effort to gain new leads, Isabelle agrees to partake in an interview with a true crime podcaster. However, his interest in her past begins to make her grow wary. His in-depth questioning, coupled with her severe insomnia, begins to uproot uncomfortable childhood memories. Further, Isabelle begins to doubt her original recollection of the night Mason disappeared. Now, Isabelle has begun to second guess who she can trust… including herself.
WHY:
Who doesn’t love a good psychological thriller? New York Times bestseller Stacy Willingham is known for delivering gripping stories, as evidenced by her previous novel A Flicker in the Dark. Given the success of similar movies and TV shows, like Gone Girl and The Sinner, we think this book would translate well onto the big screen.
Coffee Shop Read
The Davenports
by Krystal Marquis
SYNOPSIS:
In an evolving United States, the Davenports are one of few Black families with immense wealth and status. Years ago, their fortune was cemented when William Davenport, a formerly enslaved man, founded the Davenport Carriage Company. Now, it’s 1910, and the Davenports’ lives consist of grand parties, crystal chandeliers, and endless luxuries. And, they’re finding their way and finding love—even where they’re not supposed to.
The eldest, Olivia, is ready to follow her duty and get married… until she meets civil rights leader Washington DeWight, that is. Helen, the younger daughter, is more interested in fixing cars than falling in love—unless it’s with her sister’s suitor. Amy-Rose, the Davenport sisters’ maid, dreams of starting her own business and ending up with a man she never could be with—Olivia and Helen’s brother, John. And Olivia’s best friend, Ruby, gets caught up in a family scheme to win one man’s heart, just as another man captures hers.
WHY:
In her debut novel, Krystal Marquis offers a glimpse into a period of African American history that is often overlooked. The Davenports are inspired by the real-life story of the Patterson family, and the book is already receiving rave reviews. Period dramas are super popular, and we think this text could do just as well on-screen as Bridgerton has.
Dark Horse
The Bandit Queens
by Parini Shroff
SYNOPSIS:
Five years ago, Geeta lost her miserable husband. As in, she actually lost him—one day he just up and left, and she has no idea where he is. But, there’s a rumor circulating within her remote village in India, a rumor that just won’t die. People believe that Geeta killed him. It turns out that being known as a “self-made” widow has its perks. No longer do men harass her or try to marry her. It’s even been good for her business, with nobody daring to not buy her jewelry.
However, now other women want her “expertise,” and Geeta suddenly finds herself the unwilling advisor for husband disposals. With Geeta’s reputation turning into a double-edged sword, she must now find a way to protect herself and the life she’s built. But, even the most thought-out plans begin to fail, and what happens next sets in motion a chain of events that will change everything—for Geeta and for all of the women in the village.
WHY:
Parini Shroff delivers in this novel that has been described as emotional, unpredictable, and hilarious. With an original plot and tons of comedic moments, we can totally picture this book on the big screen.
We hope you enjoy these reading recommendations! For more Three to Read line-ups, click here.
FEATURED IMAGE VIA GRIFFYN TIJAMO / BOOKSTR