Hi, {{first_name | friend}}!
We're solidly in the dog days of summer, which means my ideal afternoon (and morning... and evening, let's be real) involves air conditioning, an iced coffee, and a really good book. If you're with me, today's Book Pix has plenty of goodies, including a gorgeous new novel set in Paris, the debut Carley Fortune calls "staggering," and, if you missed last week's Worth the Read, my favorite section: a guide to the best books to read instead of (or alongside) The Odyssey.
Yours,
Genevieve
Books Content Manager @ Pix
Current 📖: The Gate of the Feral Gods: Dungeon Crawler Carl Book 4 by Matt Dinniman
Quick links
Don’t read The Odyssey (yet)
If the thought of tackling all 24 books of The Odyssey feels intimidating, I’m sharing plenty of other places to start. And unlike most Odyssey reading lists, I'm recommending both ancient and modern picks because here's the secret: ancient doesn't have to mean inaccessible.
If you want more Greek mythology:
Mythology
by Edith Hamilton
First published in 1942, Edith Hamilton's Mythology remains the go-to introduction to Greek, Roman, and Norse myths. Hamilton’s writing makes these ancient stories engaging, approachable, and easy to follow, making this book a genuinely fun read. I will note that she does take a few liberties, so think of it as the perfect entry point rather than the final word. It's endlessly readable and covers all the classics, from the origins of the gods and Persephone's descent into Hades to Jason and the Argonauts and, of course, Odysseus.
More reading:
Bookmarks | Exciting New Releases
CONTEMPORARY FICTION SPOTLIGHT
Meet Me in Paris
by Kristin Harmel
Love Actually meets The Notebook in the brand-new novel from Kristin Harmel, the New York Times bestselling author of The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau and The Book of Lost Names. Over the course of a few unforgettable spring days in Paris, a cast of interconnected strangers—including a dying mother and daughter, a faded rock star, long-lost lovers, and a woman rethinking her marriage—discover that it's never too late for love, second chances, and new beginnings. Christina Lauren raves that this novel is “a luminous, heart-tugging ode to love in all its forms.”
THE BIG DEBUT
The Good Parts
by Evann Normandin
Could you make someone fall in love with you twice? After a radical treatment erases Rose's memories of their marriage, Landon tracks her down in Edinburgh and, posing as a stranger, tries to make her fall in love with him all over again before the truth—and her buried memories—catch up with them. Jodi Picoult "loved" this poignant debut, while Carley Fortune calls it "a staggering portrait of the pain and glory of enduring love, and a story you won't soon forget."
The Spotlight
Together with ThriftBooks
140 Top Titles of 2026
Wondering which 2026 books genuinely deserve a spot on your TBR? ThriftBooks has done the hard part for you, rounding up 140 of the year's biggest standouts across every major genre. Whether you're looking for your next five-star read or just want to see what everyone's talking about, this list is the perfect place to start. And with more than 19 million new and used books available, shopping at ThriftBooks means you'll often find these popular titles at discounted prices. Treat yourself to the best books at the best prices.
Guess the Book: Emoji Edition
🧙♀️🐷🌊🏝️🌿🌙🦁⚱️✨👑
Answer in footer
Bookworld
🎥 The film adaptation of Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow has found its Sam and Marx.
📖 Read a sneak peek of Veronica Roth’s new novel set in the Divergent universe.
🗣️ The Dungeon Crawler Carl show adaptation has announced the first cast member, and it’s someone fans already adore.
Hotel Spotlight
Together with Inside Hotels
Omni PGA Frisco Resort
The Vibe: A golfer’s wildest dream
The Location: Frisco, TX
Instaworthy Activities:
Steps from PGA of America headquarters, this Frisco resort is set to host the 2027 PGA Championship. All 500+ decadent rooms and villas have their own flair of Texan culture. Warm tartan patterns paired with bright, modern amenities create a warm southern welcome. Whether you’re an avid golfer or are just traveling with one, everyone can appreciate the tranquility of lush fairways that go on for acres. When you’re not indulging in two 18-hole championship courses, a two-acre putting green, and a lighted par-3 course, treat yourself to a self-care session at Omni PGA Frisco’s award-winning spa and salon!
Page to Screen
Spider-Man: Brand New Day
Spider-Man is swinging back into theaters this Friday, July 31! Based on the iconic Marvel comic books, Spider-Man: Brand New Day sees Tom Holland return as Peter Parker, now protecting a city that has completely forgotten who he is after the events of Spider-Man: No Way Home. Also starring Zendaya and Jacob Batalon, the latest promises a new chapter for everyone's favorite web-slinger.
Sponsored
Beauty That Starts From Within
Pique's Carrara Marine Collagen combines Type I + II marine collagen, biotin, and micronized pearl powder for smoother skin, stronger hair, and whole-body vitality. All of it comes in a coconut cream base that transforms your morning routine into a ritual. Get 15% off for life.
Guess the Book: Emoji Edition Answer
Circe by Madeline Miller! This 2018 bestseller about The Odyssey’s infamous sorceress is getting a huge boost thanks to Christopher Nolan’s new movie.