So I LOVE the show Cold Case (ilysm Lilly Rush/Scotty Valens). Cold case mystery/thrillers live in that unsettling space where justice failed the first time, where evidence was missed, buried, or deliberately ignored, and the world moved on as if the truth didn’t matter. These stories, like the show, return to those forgotten crimes years, even decades later, when a detective, journalist, podcaster, or relentless outsider decides to dig deeper. #tacklingunfinishedbusiness #coldcases

For the men in the slutty little glasses- you know the ones. And are so pathetically down bad it’s sweet.

Sad queer books. Beware of tears. Inspired by the Tragic Love Queer Edition Quest

Books about feminism, the manosphere, incels and anything else that will make you angry

Multigenerational sagas that will make you want to deep dive into your family history, or at least call your Grandma.

books where tarot cards are featured/used as a plot device created bc i’m (unintentionally) amassing a collection lol

The most hated and/or beloved books were the main character really goes through it.

Queer poetry to make you feel

Strangers form unlikely friendships that turn into family

This is my opinion based solely on vibes. Personally verified by me, please send recs 🫶🏼

I love books that have some unique feature that is best enjoyed as a physical book, rather than e-book or audio. An example could be that it has footnotes, appendices, non-linear storytelling, or requires frequent flipping of pages.

In this digital age, it’s fun to find books where the physical book has an advantage. It’s also a factor I use when purchasing books at the bookstore.

Totally open to recommendations, as part of my reason for making this list is wanting to find more!

Novels immersed in food and its imagery told through the perspective of messy women

Books to educate and inspire us in creating a better, more humane world today. Particular focus on US history/interests/etc.

Books based on real world mythology, folklore, or religion

For other future librarians, people interested in the function of libraries, or people who are interested in intellectual freedom.

Books adapted into movies Finn Wolfhard has been in or books with that sort of feel. Expect mostly queer 80’s mixed with horror.

everyone knows a teen (or multiple teens) should be completely responsible for the whole planet, it builds character. (books a mix of middle grade and ya)

From the The StoryGraph's Genre Challenge 2026!

Trying to prioritize BIPOC authors.

Suggestions are always welcome!

Plants and women that are pretty but deadly