This Booker Prize long-listed debut will strike a chord with its evocative style of writing that follows two Chinese American orphans as they navigate life in the wild west. Zhang's lyrical storytelling is simultaneously epic in its ambitions and deeply intimate in its execution as it infuses its tale with Chinese symbolism to present a wider, more inclusive sort of "American" history that is almost mythic in nature. Amidst the family secrets threatening to spill, and the sibling rivalry threatening to boil over, is a deeper question of just who gets to tell these stories and why? The answers are certainly book club-worthy.

There's plenty to love about Ali's debut novel, and it's recently published sequel (Misfit in Love)! There's Ali's ability to capture the teenage experience in a way that's as relatable and grounded as a John Hughes film — while also featuring an Egyptian-Indian muslim girl at its center. There's also the gentle tact her work displays while dealing with tough topics, the ones that even many adults find hard to discuss. But maybe most of all, there's the journey of self-discovery her teenage protagonist goes through as she tries to navigate the various aspects of her own identity. It's perfect for fans and non-fans of young adult fiction alike, which will allow for plenty of rich discussion. 

Step back in time to 1950s India for Joshi's rivetting tale of a young woman who escapes an abusive marriage, only to reinvent herself as Jaipur's most sought after henna artist, trusted with keeping the secrets of all the rich women she serves. Only, soon enough the past comes crashing in as not only does her husband track her down, but he brings with him the sister she never knew she had. Joshi's ability to deliver a timeless story that feels set in the present is a testament to her skill, and one of the big reasons to dive into this trilogy. 

Laughter is the best medicine. So is talking about what's troubling you. In this laugh out loud collection of essays, Lawson walks readers through her thoughts, feelings, questions, and struggles with depression and anxiety, with the skill of a deft-handed magician. Readers will find themselves on a roller coaster of emotions, but one that's worth riding. Lawson's blend of blistering honesty and raw humanity are exactly what many people might be searching for to feel less alone with the issues they may be facing. As always, Lawson provides lots to talk about — even if you struggle with sharing your own struggles.

Billingham's latest is also his funniest, and possibly his most twistiest. In Rabbit Hole he introduces to a new lead character, one who used to be a detective but is now in an acute psychiatric ward for treatment for her PTSD, as well as her reliance on drugs and alcohol. However, when her fellow patients start turning up dead, it's up to her to solve the mystery. There's only one problem: she's not sure if she can trust herself. But if there is something readers should trust, it's Billingham's ability to tell a story. 

Not all friendships are as true as they should be. Some even end violently, as in the case of Phillips' best-friend-ship gone sour as one of the duo is now tragically dead, while the other stands suspected of her murder — no thanks to her trail of toxicity. Phillips' debut is fast paced and tightly written, as it keeps readers guessing till the last page. It's the kind of title that will spark all kinds of discussion and make for a lively meet up. 

Readers might be familiar with Kent's work under her other published name: Annabel Kantaria, but The House of Whispers is her finest thriller yet as she unpacks a tale of toxic friendship that will have readers doubting themselves as they rip through the pages towards the nailbiting conclusion. No doubt, there'll be plenty to discuss. Perhaps even enough to move up a book club meeting.