Brain Candy Book Club

In this episode, Kat reviews the 2021 novel by Sonya Lalli in which twenty-nine-year-old Niki Randhawa falls in love with Sam from the Band at her best friend's wedding in Mumbai after being laid off from her job as a data analyst.

In this episode, we’re uncovering the magic of "The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" by Sangu Mandanna. This enchanting story follows Mika Moon, a solitary witch who’s always kept her powers—and herself—hidden. That is, until she’s invited to a quirky house full of magical misfits who need her help. As Mika starts teaching a group of young witches how to control their powers, she discovers found family, unexpected romance, and a sense of belonging she never knew she needed. We’ll talk about the book’s cozy magic, heartwarming relationships, and why it’s the perfect comfort read for anyone who loves a bit of whimsy and wonder.

In this episode, we're diving into "What a Match" by Mimi Grace, where sparks fly between a meticulous planner and her brother’s grumpy best friend. Gwen Gilmore knows exactly what she wants in a man, but after struggling with the dating scene, she turns to a matchmaker for help. Enter Anthony Woods, her brother’s best friend, who’s had a secret crush on Gwen for years—and now he’s crashing on her couch. We’ll chat about their slow-burn chemistry, the tension of opposites attracting, and why sometimes the best match isn’t the one you planned for.

In this episode, we explore "Do Your Worst" by Rosie Danan, a delightful rom-com that blends magical curses with sizzling chemistry. Follow the story of Riley, a modern-day curse breaker, and Clark, a cynical archaeologist, as they team up to unravel an ancient Scottish curse. Sparks fly as they clash and collaborate in this enchanting, opposites-attract romance. We'll discuss the book's humor, the enchanting setting, and the characters’ unexpected connection. If you're into magic, witty banter, and heartwarming love stories, this episode is for you!

In this episode, we dive into "Love in the Time of Serial Killers", a unique blend of romance and true crime obsession by Alicia Thompson. We'll explore how the book's quirky protagonist, Phoebe, navigates love, loss, and her fascination with serial killers while dealing with real-life relationships. Join us as we break down the novel's witty humor, heartfelt moments, and the ways it challenges our ideas of romance and fear.

In this episode, Kat discusses On Rotation, a rom-com about Angie, a woman in her third year of medical school who falls in love with Ricky, a painter and graphic designer. We get to see Angie figure out what matters to her, her priorities, and how to set healthy boundaries with her parents, her friend group, work and school, and this new man.

This week's book focuses on Jada finding herself after becoming possibly the most hated woman in America (of those who watch reality tv!) after turning down a proposal on national television. She starts working in Donovan's cupcake shop, and the two of them turn the shop into a success, finding love and support in each other along the way. We talk about family, figuring out the next move after a setback, and giving time to heal.

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This week's book is a wild ride filled with fantasies, red-carpet events, group chat conversations, and fan fiction. Alex is a hyper sweetheart of a man who is assigned a minder, a burned-out ER therapist named Lauren forced to accompany him at all times. Jane and Kat talk about all the tropes (forced proximity, much?), and whether their happily ever after will last off page.

TW: domestic abuse of a secondary character off page and in the past

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This week's book follows Anna's journey of self-discovery as she explores what she wants her life to look like. From setting boundaries with family to finally figuring out how to care for her pet rock named Rock, we get to watch Anna grow into a new version of herself. Oh, and she falls in love with Quan.

TW: Autistic burnout, codependency, suffering

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This episode’s book is a personal favorite of Jane’s, and we both want to be best friends with one of the main characters in this episode’s book.  Frankie is iconic.  She and Ren take their relationship from colleagues to friends to more.  This book skillfully deals with neurodivergence, chronic illness, and embracing who you are.  We’re happy you’ve joined the conversation.

TW: discussion of chronic illness, discussion of neurodivergence 

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