5 Short Books You Can Read in a Day

Set in the eerie town of Castle Rock, Maine, in the summer of 1974, 12-year-old Gwendy Peterson has a daily routine of climbing the infamous Suicide Stairs. One day, when she reaches the top, she meets a mysterious man in a black hat who introduces her to an unusual button box with strange powers. As Gwendy’s life intertwines with the box, a thrilling and chilling tale of the darker side of desire and choice unfolds. 

My Thoughts: Written by two master storytellers, this collaboration between Stephen King and Richard Chizmar blends suspense and nostalgia. You won’t want to put it down until you reach the final page!

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This fantastical journey takes you through the memories of a man who revisits his childhood home and the eerie, magical events that shaped his life. When he was just seven, the unnamed narrator befriended a mysterious girl who uncovered dark secrets lurking in his quiet neighborhood. Together, they go on spine-tingling adventures that blend innocence with the supernatural.

My Thoughts: Since its publication in 2013, this book has received critical success and massive enthusiastic recommendations from thousands of readers. Its vivid storytelling makes it incredibly hard to put down. With just the right amount of magic and nostalgia, it’s a delightful choice for anyone looking to escape reality for a few hours!

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While fishing on a rainy morning on an Irish stream, Father Declan de Loughry can’t shake off the recent deathbed confession from one of his parishioners, Kevin Dennehy. It turns out that Kevin and his wife, Enda, had been keeping a big secret for fifty years! But it’s only when Enda shares her heart-wrenching story of suffering with Father Declan that the true weight of their deception begins to sink in.

My Thoughts: Ann Patchett, acclaimed author of Tom Lake and multiple novels, discovered this hidden gem in a used bookstore. She was so enchanted that she made it her mission to reintroduce it to the world. This book may be short, but it’s long in emotional depth!

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Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children welcomes children who have fallen down the rabbit hole (literally!) and have now returned, forever changed. The story follows Nancy, who has returned from her own magical world, only to learn that those enchanted places don’t always welcome you back. As Nancy navigates her new life at this home, she discovers that it hides dark secrets. She and her fellow residents must band together to confront the dangers lurking in the shadows.

My Thoughts: This book is an enchanting blend of whimsy and danger that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Its captivating characters, imaginative settings, and fast-paced plot make it perfect for a cozy afternoon read!

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Three estranged sisters come together for a family camping trip, only to find themselves entangled in a murder mystery when a dead body turns up at their campsite. Hilarity and chaos ensue with the unexpected challenge of covering up the crime. This highly unusual situation pushes them into actually bonding with each other. Remi Finch, who has always struggled with family ties and anxiety, is about to discover what sisterhood truly means.

My Thoughts: A perfect choice for anyone who loves a blend of comedy and mystery! With its relatable characters and amusing moments, you’ll likely breeze through it with a smile. I grabbed up this new release on Amazon First Reads for free because of its connection to the hilarious Mindy Kaling. (She published it through her imprint with Amazon, “Mindy’s Book Studio.”)

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