The Librarian's Nightstand, Summer 2026
Wondering what our librarians have been reading lately? Our branch librarians each chose one standout read that's worth adding to your To-Be-Read list. And, after seeing what books Burlington readers borrowed the most so far this year, they also shared their favourite read since January.
The Picks
Books our branch librarians have recently read and recommend.
Aldershot Branch Librarian Kumkum
What if your carefully curated online life suddenly became real? Natalie has built a social media empire around her picture-perfect tradwife lifestyle, sharing her farm, cowboy husband, and six children with more than eight million followers. Fans love her, critics can't stand her, and everyone has something to say. But behind carefully crafted videos is a different reality.
Then, suddenly, Natalie wakes up in 1855 on a run-down farm, where pioneer life is nothing like the dream she has built. Is she really in the past, or is someone playing a cruel game? This twisty, gripping novel features complicated characters who invite judgement at every turn. Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke blends historical fiction, psychological thriller, and sharp social satire into a suspenseful, thought-provoking read.
Kumkum's favourite book so far this year: Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Alton Branch Librarian Deepti
I really enjoy Jeffrey Archer's books, and End Game didn't disappoint. Set during the 2012 London Olympics, this final William Warwick adventure is packed with suspense, action, and unexpected twists. Archer's short, fast-paced chapters kept me turning the pages, making it hard to put down. A satisfying finale for fans of the series and a great choice for anyone who enjoys a gripping thriller.
Deepti's favourite book so far this year: The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins
Brant Hills Branch Sarah
The Spirit of Scatarie by Lesley Crewe is a story set on a remote island off the coast of Cape Breton, narrated by a spirit who tells the tale of the people who live there over the course of many years. Our spirit narrator, Cara, died in a shipwreck off Scatarie and has chosen to stay there and follow three particular friends, Hardy, Sam, and Mary Alice, through childhood, the Second World War, heartbreak and loss, struggle, and the true test of time that their friendship survives. All the while, Cara gently tries to guide the friends towards their destinies.
This book has a slower pace but is worth the journey to experience an epic tale that is set on a remote yet beautiful and wild island, filled with suspense and many emotional journeys throughout.
Sarah's favourite book so far this year: Finding Flora by Elinor Florence
Central Branch Librarian Sarah-Ann
I am not usually a fan of historical fiction; however, when I saw this beautiful cover, I knew I needed to read it! Beasts of a Little Land by Juhea Kim takes place over the course of Korea's fight for independence during the Japanese occupation. The story follows a young courtesan named Jade and an orphan boy named JungHo who becomes involved in the resistance movement.
As the years pass, their lives intertwine. They meet soldiers, artists, revolutionaries, and aristocrats, all while navigating love, ambition, sacrifice, and survival in a nation undergoing profound change. The main theme of this book is how personal choices and historical events can shape who we become. This book is for fans of Pachinko and anyone who enjoys immersive historical fiction.
Sarah-Ann's favourite book so far this year: Exquisite Corpses Volume 1 by James IV Tynion
New Appleby Branch Librarian Kathleen
This month I read Seasons of Glass and Iron: Stories by Amal El-Mohtar. I really enjoyed This is How You Lose the Time War, which El-Mohtar co-wrote with Max Gladstone, so I was excited to get my hands on more of her work! I'm not always drawn to short story collections, but El-Mohtar has such a unique, lyrical, and captivating writing style. In this collection, she spans the genres of fairy-tale retelling, speculative fiction, and magical realism, exploring themes of feminism, identity, love, and healing, among others.
My favourite stories in this collection were The Lonely Sea in the Sky, And Their Lips Rang With the Sun, A Tale of Ash in Seven Birds, and The Truth About Owls.
Katheen's favourite book so far this year: Heart the Lover by Lily King
Tansley Woods Branch Librarian Astrid
My summer pick is Chasing Summer by Frankie Scott. This newly released Canadian romance set in Prince Edward County (PEC) is a light and cozy read perfect for the beach. The story follows Elise Hunter, a screenwriter who moves to PEC for a fresh start. As she settles in, she rebuilds her confidence and reconnects with the people around her. Ben, whom she meets during her sister’s wedding festivities, offers steady support and even volunteers to be her date. Then her first love unexpectedly turns out to be her next door neighbour, stirring up unresolved feelings. Elise finds herself torn between her past and the possibility of something new while navigating family dynamics.
Scott captures PEC’s beaches, vineyards, and landscapes beautifully. As a fan of Carley Fortune, I found this an ideal contemporary romance for the warmer months.
Astrid's favourite book so far this year: Against Technoableism by Ashley Shew
