Hi & welcome to The Shelf Edit! I’m Alena. An avid reader with an extensive to-read list.
The Shelf Edit is my attempt to make sense of the literary chaos and spotlight the books that deserve your time, energy, and shelf space. (It was either this or continue to bombard my friends and family with unsolicited recommendations.)
In each issue you’ll find various recommendations, including:
A Shelf Pick: A book I read and loved and why it earned a spot.
A Skip: A book I didn’t finish or wouldn’t recommend and why.
A Toss-Up: A book I’m conflicted about (but might be perfect for someone else).
The Pile: A preview of what I’m currently reading & what’s next on my list.
I also occasionally publish Shelf Service: tell me what kind of book you’re in the mood for and I will match you to your next read.
On alternating weeks, you’ll receive Off the Shelf, a collection of links that caught my eye.
Why should I trust your recs?
Fair enough, especially as my day job is in reality TV casting. However, reading is my most obsessive hobby and, at heart, I’m still just an English major who loves talking about books. I read about one book a week, am a member of four book clubs, and am known for always having a book rec at the ready. This is basically me doing that, except in newsletter form. I am a true believer that, as Stephen King said, books are a “uniquely portable magic.”
What kind of books can I expect?
I read across a broad spectrum that includes beachy romances, dark thrillers, nonfiction and memoir, the classics, and romantasy. However, my wheelhouse is decidedly literary fiction (favorite authors include Lily King, Maggie O’Farrell, Donna Tartt, Jane Austen, and Ann Patchett).
Whether you’re looking for your next great read or trying to shrink your to-read list, I’m glad you’re here.
— Alena
📝 Want to chat, recommend a book, or submit a Shelf Service request? heylaney@gmail.com
You can also find The Shelf Edit on Instagram!
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