At the heart of her message is a truth she’s lived firsthand: “I wish everyone knew that while in recovery, we get to show up honest, we get to show up purposeful, we get to show up in a way that is helpful to our communities and our families. It’s not always easy, but it is 100% always worth it. So I wish everyone understood that if your loved one is struggling, on the other side of that struggle is an amazing life. Hold on and hang on to hope and your loved one will get there.”

Caroline’s path to recovery

Childhood trauma and a search for comfort devastatingly led Caroline to alcohol at just 9-years-old. “My journey started off like so many of us in addiction recovery — with a lot of struggle and hardship as a child,” she shares. She affirms that addiction and substance use disorder are symptoms of something greater going on. 

Growing up in a broken home, she experienced alcoholism in the home, neglect and sexual abuse that propelled her to seek peace from dark places. After sneaking beer from her grandpa’s fridge and taking a drink when she was 9, she then went on a horrible roller coaster ride that lasted nearly two decades. But everything changed in her late 20s when she discovered recovery. 

“What I discovered is that recovery is a much fuller experience, and it’s not just about stopping something, it’s about becoming someone,” she says. Today, now in her mid-40s, she’s grateful that she gets to not just live her own recovery story out, but help other people who are in those dark places too. “I am just super passionate about sharing not just what recovery is all about, but what we can find when we live in this new kind of transformed life,” she says.

And for Caroline, this is how she stayed hopeful throughout her own 15-year recovery journey. Here, she opens up to Woman’s World about her own personal journey and ways to help family members in recovery, while also staying strong and hopeful.

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Show up for them

 Caroline believes many families have been weighed down by misunderstood ideas about addiction. “Concepts like ‘enabling’ and ‘tough love,’ even ‘codependence,’ I feel like are terms that have really been distorted,” she explains, noting they often create guilt and unnecessary burden on families. She encourages asking loved ones a question: “How do we love well and show up for our loved ones in a way that is healthy?” 

For Caroline, the answer is personal. She recalls a moment that stayed with her for decades, when her father came to pick her up during a difficult time. “He gave me a hug, and he pulled me into him, and I could just feel the sense of compassion,” she says. “He wasn’t trying to control me. It was just like a showing up and extending this love and concern.” 

What mattered most wasn’t fixing everything; it was his presence and a conversation that began with compassion and understanding. “Instead of Caroline, What? What’s wrong with you? Why are you doing this to us? They started asking, What happened that you felt the need to start drinking at 9 years old?”

Find a community

For families in the thick of it, isolation can feel overwhelming, but Caroline wants women to know they’re far from alone. “We feel like we have the weight of the world on our shoulders and we have to carry it alone. But the truth is, we don’t,” she says. “Addiction recovery touches almost every single family. There are 24 million Americans in recovery alone.” 

That reality, she explains, should replace shame with connection. “We don’t have to feel like we’re alone in our struggle anymore,” she says, encouraging loved ones to seek out others who understand. “You don’t have to walk through those experiences alone.”

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Set loving boundaries

While compassion and understanding are essential to the healing and recovery process, Caroline is clear that healthy boundaries also matter. “A lot of times we think boundaries are for the other person, but boundaries are actually about us. They’re about protecting our hearts and our minds,” she explains. She points again to her father’s actions: “He said, ‘I’m not giving you cash, but I’m going to show up in a way that is healthy.’” 

In her book, she builds on principles from Boundaries by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend that offer practical ways to apply those ideas in real-life situations and create places of safety for yourself, too.

Preparing for a relapse

Relapse is one of the biggest fears families face, and Caroline doesn’t shy away from that reality. “Relapse is such a legitimate fear,” she says. Instead of living in constant anxiety, she encourages preparation. “The best thing you can do is be prepared,” she explains, pointing to tools like her free downloadable Family Recovery Planning Guide. Visit her website and type in your email address to download her free guide.

“Sometimes we look at recurrence of use as some type of failure or a disappointment. It can really just be a part of the journey,” she says as she encourages readers to reframe setbacks.

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Take time for yourself

Amid the chaos addiction can bring, Caroline emphasizes that when caring for others, we are often overlooked in the process. She encourages the need for self-care and for women to reflect on their own needs. Ask yourself: “Am I caring and showing up for myself as much as everyone else in my life?” she says. “Otherwise, I’m trying to pour from an empty cup.” Even small things can restore balance and strength in the midst of uncertainty.

Remember that rebuilding trust is a process

When trust has been broken, healing doesn’t happen overnight, and Caroline encourages patience on both sides. “It took a long time for me to regain that trust,” she shares. “Healing takes time.” In a world that expects quick fixes, recovery requires consistency and grace. “We love instant everything,” she says, but real change is going to take time and practice. But with compassion and patience, she believes trust can be rebuilt, no matter how deep the pain. 

Caroline brings expertise, wisdom, and lived experience to her work, offering a rare depth of understanding for families navigating addiction. Her new book, When You Love Someone in Recovery, is available now — providing hope, guidance, and practical tools for anyone walking this difficult, but impactful path.

There are countless books set in Appalachia—the region of the United States that stretches from Southern New York to Northern Mississippi—and we combed through dozens to uncover seven of the best historical fiction picks—including one of Dolly Parton’s favorite books of all-time. That’s right! Dolly, who hails from the Great Smoky Mountains herself, simply adores books set near her cherished hometown.

Each of these must-reads capture the grit, heart and spirit of a region unlike any other. To discover all of our favorite historical fiction books set in Appalachia, keep scrolling!

‘Storming Heaven’ by Denise Giardina

Written in 1987, Denise Giardina’s Storming Heaven is a powerful portrait of Appalachia’s coal country and the people who fought to survive it. Set in a West Virginia town upended by the coal industry, the novel follows four unforgettable voices—an idealistic mayor, a hardened union man, a devoted nurse and a grieving immigrant mother—whose lives intertwine. As their stories unfold, Giardina brings to life the struggle for workers’ rights, building to the explosive Battle of Blair Mountain. A gripping, moving tale. 

What readers are saying: “Historical fiction is my favorite genre, and this award-winning book did not disappoint. Giardina (a coal miner’s daughter herself) has created a terrifically readable reconstruction of the events in early 20th century West Virginia as over 10,000 out of work miners tired of despicable working conditions—and after years of attempts to form a union— finally lead an uprising and are retaliated against by the U.S. government in the Battle of Blair Mountain. The story is told through four powerful narrators. 5 stars!”

‘Cold Mountain’ by Charles Frazier

In 1997, Charles Frazier published his sweeping Civil War epic, Cold Mountain, and the novel became a literary sensation. After topping bestseller lists and winning the National Book Award, it was adapted into a blockbuster movie starring Jude Law and Nicole Kidman. The novel follows wounded Confederate soldier Inman as he deserts the front lines and embarks on a difficult journey back to the Blue Ridge Mountains—and to Ada, the woman he loves. Along the way, he encounters a fractured world filled with dangers and unexpected humanity. Meanwhile, Ada struggles to rebuild her life at home. It’s a moving and tumultuous story of love, survival and homecoming.

What readers are saying: “Cold Mountain is quite possibly the most beautiful book that I’ve ever read. It’s not for the faint of heart, however, as it’s time-consuming and requires a great deal of patience as Frazier takes his time with his descriptions of the landscape and the people as Inman, a soldier broken in spirit by the futility and waste of the Civil War, decides to walk home to Ada and his beloved Cold Mountain.”

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‘Christy’ by Catherine Marshall 

First published in 1967, this reader-favorite novel by Catherine Marshall has sold more than 10 million copies. The book, based on Marshall’s own mother’s life, remains an American fiction classic and was made into a TV movie starring Kellie Martin in 1994.

The novel follows 19-year-old teacher Christy Huddleston as she leaves Asheville, North Carolina in 1912, for the isolated Smoky Mountain settlement of Cutter Gap, Tennesee—a place shaped by poverty, tradition and deep-rooted beliefs. As she works to educate local children, Christy faces suspicion from those who see change as a threat. Her faith is tested—at the same time her heart is pulled between two very different men—in this moving story of courage, purpose and transformation.

What readers are saying: “This heartfelt novel is Catherine Marshall’s loving tribute to her mother Lenora Woods’ journey to Cutter Gap, in the Smoky Mountains of Tennessee, to teach its children shortly after the turn of the century. The effect it had on her mother’s life and faith is captured with warmth and beauty in this fine audiobook. It is made all the more special because it is read by Kellie Martin, who starred in the two-hour television adaptation, and the series that followed. It is rare when an audiobook is this good! Though nothing is ever a substitute for reading the book, having both read this fine novel in the traditional manner, and listened to this audio reading, I can honestly say that if you loved the television series, you will love this.”

‘Black Mountain Breakdown’ by Lee Smith

Dolly Parton—who may just be Appalachia’s most famous export—feels right at home in author Lee Smith’s books, which are widely celebrated for her deeply felt portrayals of Appalachian life. In fact, Dolly has cited Smith as an author who goes “plum deep” into her soul. Set during the mid-20th century, Black Mountain Breakdown—one of Dolly’s favorites of all time—transports readers to the fading mountain town of Black Rock. Crystal Spangler grows up wanting so much more than her small town can offer: She’s smart, popular and even wears the crown as a teen beauty queen. Everything points to a bright future and eventually she manages to flee her hometown. But years later, Crystal is pulled back, where long-hidden, painful truths begin to surface.

What other readers are saying: “I read and loved Lee Smith’s Fair and Tender Ladies and enjoyed the return to Smith’s Appalachia. Both books are stuffed with story. Even very minor characters usually get fascinating backstories or amusing mini-portraits.  I love Lee Smith’s writing and her sense of place and people and story.”

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‘Fair and Tender Ladies’ by Lee Smith

Another beloved standout among Smith’s books, Fair and Tender Ladies is written almost entirely as letters and it showcases Smith’s gift for character-driven storytelling set against the backdrop of Appalachian life. The story spans most of the 20th century from just before World War I through the 1970s. From the moment Ivy Rowe is born on Blue Star Mountain, her life is defined by yearning, endurance and an unshakable emotional depth, revealed through the letters she writes to those she loves. She dreams of leaving home to study writing in the North and build a different future. But an unexpected pregnancy—and the weight of public judgment— alter her plans, leading her to marry a childhood friend and return to her family’s mountain homestead. Here, she raises children, works the land and holds onto the hope that her dreams are still within reach. 

What readers are saying: “This quote is my favorite from the novel: ‘From where we stood, we could see for miles. I thought I could see Sugar Fork but I couldn’t be sure, there were lots and lots of hollers, and I saw them all, valley after valley, ridge after ridge, Bethel Mountain beyond —but now for the first time I could see over the top of Bethel Mountain to another mountain, blue, purple, then mountain after mountain, rolling like the sea. It was so beautiful. A single twisted pine grew bravely up out of the rocks before us. Mile after mile of empty air stretched out behind it, the sky so blue, the sun so bright. And the wind, which kept on blowing all the time—now I recalled the famous endless wind on top of Blue Star Mountain.’ The writing is so beautiful and artistic. This was my first Lee Smith book and every chapter was charming and gorgeous!”

‘King’s Mountain’ by Sharyn McCrumb

If you’re looking for more authors who capture the authenticity of Appalachian life, look no further than award-winning Southern author Sharyn McCrumb. Her 2013 novel, King’s Mountain, recounts the pivotal 1780 Revolutionary War battle of the same name through the eyes of the “Overmountain Men,” an Appalachian militia led by figures like John Sevier. The story shows how British Major Patrick Ferguson’s threat to burn their farms drove settlers to band together and defeat Loyalist forces—an event that was described as a “turning point” in the war by Thomas Jefferson. This book is part of McCrumb’s beloved Ballad series, which blends historical fact with Appalachian lore.

What readers are saying: “I have always enjoyed Ms. McCrumb’s writing. She knows the people of Appalachia and writes about them with pride and warmth. I was especially interested in this book as one of my North Carolina ancestors was an Overmountain man. I have always been proud of that line of my family but more so today after reading King’s Mountain. As I read the book, I see many similarities between the Mountain Men of the 1700s and their progeny who live on in the mountains today! A fierce loyalty to the land and a pride that says, ‘bring it on’ is evident in many of the mountaineers who have Scotch Irish blood running in their veins. Another job well done Ms McCrumb!”

‘Milk Glass Moon’ by Adriana Trigiani

Bestselling author Adriana Trigiani is well-known for her sweeping sagas set in Italy, like The Shoemaker’s Wife and The View From Lake Como, but she also has a slew of excellent novels set in Appalachia. (Trigiani was born in Big Stone Gap, Virginia!) 

The novel Milk Glass Moon—the third installment in her 1970s-set Big Stone Gap series—centers on Ave Maria Mulligan MacChesney, who recently visited a fortune teller and was told to “redream” her future. Meanwhile, Ave Maria is struggling to raise her headstrong daughter, Etta. Set against the close-knit backdrop of southwest Virginia, this deeply heartfelt novel explores motherhood, marriage and the ever-changing bonds of family.

What readers are saying: “I found this wonderful novel to be a bit reminiscent of Jan Karon’s Mitford series—at least with regard to the setting (in the Blue Ridge Mountains) and the large cast of characters that make up the close-knit community. I also enjoyed reading the passages focusing on the relationship between Ave Maria and her only child, Etta, and found that the dialogue between the two rang true, especially to this mother of an only daughter.”

‘Beach Read’ cast announcement sparks instant backlash

You likely recall the plot of the best-selling book: After rivals become unexpected neighbors, a cynical literary-fiction author and an idealistic romance writer challenge each other to see the world from another perspective. Phoebe Dynevor, best known from Bridgerton and Younger, will play female lead January Andrews in the movie. But Patrick’s casting as Gus sent shockwaves through social media.

Countless fans simply don’t see his posh, polished look meshing with Gus’s vibe. In the book, Gus is described as having a crooked smile and facial scar, along with dark emotional baggage and a gritty nature. Some fans have pointed out that Patrick seems better suited to play January’s ex-boyfriend Jacques—not the rough-around-the-edges Gus. The film’s director justified the casting, saying a lot of thought went into the decision and the making sure there was chemistry between the leads was. And author Emily Henry has been noticeably silent about the cast news.

Why fans say the current ‘Beach Read’ leading man misses the mark

Upon hearing the casting reveal, the internet—including a robust community of bookstagrammers and BookTokers—exploded with shocked comments. Tara Siegel, blogging on the college lifestyle site, Her Campus, called it the “casting announcement heard around the world.” She wrote, “Check on the Beach Read fans in your lives right now (me!), because we are in mourning.”

Reddit users didn’t hold back either, sharing their honest disappointment. Some called the casting of Gus “atrocious” and “incredibly underwhelming.” Another said, “It’s my favorite [Emily Henry book] and I’m so upset by this casting, like irrationally upset.”

Another shared, “Patrick is definitely not who I pictured while reading the book. His casting does make me less interested in this adaptation.” Still another claimed, “I don’t think he’s a bad actor. I do think he is limited to playing extreme privilege though. I don’t see him being great in this, but I am willing to be surprised.”

Dream ‘Beach Read’ cast: actors fans want as Gus

So that leads to the question: Who do fans wish had been cast as broody Gus? Lots of names have been floating around…

Some fans saw this as a missed opportunity for more diverse representation in romance. Actors like Dev Patel (Slumdog Millionaire) or Fabian Frankel (House of the Dragon) topped many fan wish lists.

Other fans wanted someone with a more scrappy and disheveled aura, like Joe Keery of Stranger Things. Or more charm (less smarm) with someone like Lewis Pullman from Thunderbolts. Or a touch of danger like Penn Badgley from You and Gossip Girl.

Another popular pick has an actor who rose to fame as the title character of the Percy Jackson film series: Logan Lerman. When asked who she’d cast instead, Courtney Shapiro, who runs the bookstagram account @courts.book.nook, told Woman’s World, “I wish it was Logan Lerman because his overall ‘look’ feels more like the English major, romantic vibe of Gus.

Book reviewer Jessica Mack, who runs the popular @LatestBookCrush Instagram page, told Woman’s World with a laugh, “I think my pick would have been David Corenswet [from Superman] or my brother-in-law Rick Donald.”

Why fans are still hopeful about the ‘Beach Read’ movie

Author Jillian Laine, whose upcoming novel Henry Tudor Must Die, has readers buzzing, shared her take with Woman’s World. “Beach Read was the book that got me into romance.” She adds, “When I read it in the early months of the pandemic, it was a lifeline to a happier, more optimistic world, even if dear Gus can sometimes be a bit of a nihilist.”

Her dream fan cast? “Back in 2020, I was picturing him as a jaded Ryan Gosling, because Ryan can walk that line of being emotionally unavailable and yet still completely charming as the love interest. See: Crazy Stupid Love. Plus, talk about a crooked smile!” Laine explains, “I’m excited for the adaptation, though I’ll admit, I am the person who wears her ‘The Book Was Better’ sweatshirt to most book-to-screen shows.”

And fans still have reason to be optimistic: The first Emily Henry book adaptation, People We Meet on Vacation, was well-received when it premiered, proving that her beloved books can successfully make the leap to the screen.

Time will tell if Gus can steal our hearts

Many fans continue to look forward to seeing the book come to life. And maybe fans will be pleasantly surprised. That’s what acting is all about, right? Transformation and embodying a new character. Remember when fans were skeptical about Robert Pattinson as Batman after Twilight? And look how Bryan Cranston surprised critics by nailing polar-opposite roles in Malcolm in the Middle and Breaking Bad. Sometimes unexpected choices deliver the most beloved performances.

‘The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi’ by Shannon Chakraborty 

In Shannon Chakraborty’s The Adventures of Amina Al-Sirafi, legendary pirate Amina Al-Sirafi has left her sea days behind—or so she thinks. When a desperate mother tracks her down with a dangerous mission to rescue her kidnapped daughter, Amina must decide if the money is worth the danger. What follows is a battle of strength, bravery and courage. 

“The writing, the voice, the characters…it’s all sublime,” Yarros told Waterstones in 2023. “This book grabbed hold of me from the first page and didn’t let go. And are you telling me that as a woman in her forties, I can start my pirating era? Because Shannon made me feel like I could sail on the next tide.” 

‘Yellowface’ by R.F. Kuang

This New York Times bestseller follows friends June Hayward and Athena Liu. The two writers were supposed to rise together—but only Athena became a literary legend. So, when June witnesses Athena’s shocking death, she decides to steal her friend’s manuscript and publish it under a pen name. As fame pours in, June can’t escape Athena’s ghost—or the truth.

“It has quick, biting prose that drew me straight in and quickly did its job of making me feel superbly uncomfortable as June became one of the most unlikeable heroines I’ve ever met,” Yarros said. “It’s wonderfully written and an important, cringeworthy glimpse at the publishing industry and cultural appropriation.” 

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‘The History of a Difficult Child’ by Mihret Sibhat 

This bestselling debut novel set in Southwestern Ethiopia in the 1980s is all about complex family dynamics. Selam Asmelash is the youngest member of her family. She spends her days listening to the radio in secret trying to learn what happened during their regime change. And if that weren’t enough, Selam’s ailing mother embraces Pentecostal God and insists her family convert as well. Now Selam must not only deal with the oppression happening in her country, but her ever-changing mother as well. 

“It’s a thought-provoking, beautiful, moving and sometimes harrowing look at family, religion and revolution all told from the perspective of a child who—to me—feels simultaneously wise and too young to be experiencing it all,” Yarros said. “Plus, I’m a HUGE sucker for witty one-liners, especially coming from a kid, so Selam has completely stolen my heart. “ 

‘Love on the Byline’ by Xio Axelrod 

Spice and steam combine in this Xio Axelrod novel. Blake Dillon has always dreamed of making a difference with her work, but her current job covering celebrity gossip isn’t exactly doing that. But when she gets tasked with shadowing Oliver Benjamin—her college crush turned celebrity—that all changes. Can they put the past behind and finally give happily ever after a chance? 

“I’m a huge fan of Xio’s writing. She always delivers smart, poignant, relatable romance and this one is a prime example,” Yarros raved. “Diving into the glamorous world of Hollywood and its not-so-pretty-side too, it’s witty, steamy and absolutely delivers on both a friends-to-lovers and right-people-wrong-time trope that’s my catnip.” 

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‘Fall of Ruin and Wrath’ by Jennifer L. Armentrout 

Fantasy lovers will love this novel by Jennifer L. Armentrout. The plot follows Calista, a courtesan of the Baron of Archwood, who gives her perfection in exchange for information. But when Baron takes an interest in the traveling prince and the prince takes an interest in Calista, things turn spicy…and deadly.  

“Imaginative and seductive, this fantasy romance was an all-nighter book for me,” Yarros said. “The world-building is gorgeous, the characters are both swoony and determined, and you can’t help but keep turning pages to see just how far Calista’s intuition will take her. Jennifer is truly an expert at her craft.”

Ready for more? Subscribe to our YouTube channel for video podcasts, health tips and uplifting stories designed for women 40, 50, 60 and beyond.

Schwarzenegger, 32, announced earlier this month that he would be starring in the film adaptation of Henry’s beloved novel alongside Phoebe Dynevor. He’ll play Gus, the brooding literary fiction writer next door, while Dynevor, 31, takes on the role of January, the rom-com’s lead.

“I’m so excited for this!!!” Schwarzenegger captioned an April 14 Instagram post. “First — let me say thank you to @emilyhenrywrites for the opportunity! I will do everything possible to make the fans happy & proud and bring your brilliant writing to life. PS- my wife is obsessed with you!”

Sweet sentiment? Sure. But since the White Lotus star’s casting broke, some fans have been openly critical about Schwarzenegger joining the project. And Henry’s response — or lack of one — has only fueled the conversation.

The newsletter that said everything by saying nothing

Here’s where it gets interesting for anyone who subscribes to Henry’s “Grocery List” newsletter. In a recent edition sent to fans, Henry included zero mention of Schwarzenegger joining the project. Not a word. Not even a hint.

Instead, she shared that the paperback version of her latest novel, Great Big Beautiful Life, was now available and expressed gratitude for her readers.

“I just want to send another heartfelt thank you for all your love and support,” she wrote in a Wednesday, April 22, newsletter. “It has always and continues to mean so, so much to me. More than you know.”

Henry added she was keeping this message “short n’ sweet” but shared some of her favorite things, including books from Tia Williams and Aisling Rawle as well as the Peacock series Ponies. If you’re looking for your next read based on Emily’s picks, there you go — straight from her own list.

But back to the elephant in the room. Following the newsletter’s release, fans took to social media to theorize why Henry hasn’t publicly addressed Schwarzenegger signing on to star in Beach Read — after previously promising to do so.

“The briefest letter of all time and not a single mention of the beach read casting…… It’s literally never been so over my girl is pissed ,” one user wrote via X, while another shared, “Emily Henry not acknowledging #that man in her grocery list.. she hates this casting as much as we do omg.”

Us Weekly has reached out to Henry’s spokesperson for comment.

Compare that to how she reacted to Dynevor

Henry’s move not to publicly acknowledge Schwarzenegger doesn’t match her previous outspoken commentary about her film adaptations. When Dynevor’s casting was announced in February, Henry celebrated the news on her social media page.

“More soon ,” Henry wrote via Instagram at the time alongside news confirming Dynevor will be playing January.

Henry also follows Dynevor on Instagram, while the author does not follow Schwarzenegger. The White Lotus alum, for his part, follows both Henry and Dynevor.

For anyone who spent hours imagining Gus while reading Beach Read, the Instagram follow gap alone tells a story.

The ‘People We Meet on Vacation’ casting was a different story entirely

Beach Read is Henry’s second novel to be made into a motion picture. Her novel People We Meet on Vacation starred Emily Bader and Tom Blyth and premiered on Netflix earlier this year. Henry previously spoke positively about Bader and Blyth bringing her characters to life.

“I was so terrified for like 30 seconds and then they got going and it was the first time they were meeting and they were on Zoom and they were already just magical together,” Henry said in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter about the casting process. “When I think about either of them as actors separately, but especially together, I just think they’re both so irresistible. And yeah, so it was like I didn’t need a say [in the casting]. [Director] Brett [Haley] saw, he had the vision and he was right.”

That kind of glowing endorsement is hard to miss — especially when it’s entirely absent this time around.

When Bader and Blyth were announced as the stars of People We Meet on Vacation, fans were ecstatic with the decision.

“Rereading People We Meet on Vacation and all I see when I read these chapters are Tom and Emily omfg how did we get so lucky with this casting I NEED TO SEE THE MOVIE SO F***ING BAD,” one user wrote via X while another gushed, “The People We Meet on Vacation cast is so hot”

The contrast between that reaction and the Beach Read response couldn’t be sharper. Whether Henry eventually breaks her silence or lets the quiet speak for itself, one thing is clear — her readers are paying very close attention.

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What we know so far about the ‘Off Campus’ series 

The Off Campus TV series will be based on Elle Kennedy’s bestselling book series. Season 1, which is inspired by book one, The Deal, will follow Hannah Wells after she agrees to fake date Briar University’s star hockey player Garrett Graham in the hopes of making her crush jealous. 

“Adapting a book for television always involves some creative changes, and that process was led by the team at Amazon,” Kennedy told Parade earlier this year. “I can’t say much just yet, but from what I’ve seen, the core relationship dynamics of The Deal that fans love so much are still there—you’ll just have to wait until May to see how it all comes together.” 

Currently, The Deal has more than 1 million ratings on Goodreads. The novel has also inspired several spinoff series, including Briar U and Kennedy’s newest release, Love Song, which follows Garrett and Hannah’s son. 

“The Off Campus Easter eggs were some of my favorite moments,” Kennedy told Parade of Love Song. “They’re also a reminder of how the friend group has grown over the years, but that closeness they shared at Briar U still remains. The foundation is still there, and you’ll see in Love Song how that has been passed down to the next-gen kids. For them [the main characters in Love Song], though, it’s different because instead of forming a bond in college, they’ve grown up together and that’s another layer of connection. Balancing the moments was a challenge, but honestly I just wrote what felt natural and hopefully new readers won’t be too overwhelmed by the callbacks!” 

Watch the ‘Off Campus’ trailer 

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Get to know the ‘Off Campus’ cast 

In the Off Campus series, Belmont Cameli will play Garrett and Ella Bright will play Hannah. Other key cast members include Stephen Kalyn as Dean Di Laurentis, Jalen Thomas Brooks as John Tucker, Antonio Cipriano as John Logan, Mika Abdalla as Allie Hayes, and of course, Heuston as Justin.

“Oh my gosh, their chemistry is incredible. The couples, of course, have amazing chemistry, but I was so happy to see the way Hannah and Allie’s close friendship from the book resonates on the screen. Ella and Mika really captured how much these two girls love each other. Same for the boys! The actors brought the tight-knit hockey bromance to life,” says Kennedy. 

‘Off Campus’ series release date and Season 2 details 

Off Campus premieres on Amazon Prime on May 13. The show has been renewed for a Season 2, but there is no information available on whether or not it will follow The Score, which is the second book in the series. 

“Unfortunately, I can’t say anything about Season 2 yet. But hopefully the showrunners will release some details soon,” said Kennedy. 

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Jordan has even weighed in on the debate amid the show’s early development, saying they wouldn’t go with any ‘obvious choices’ when casting the fan-favorite character. So while we wait for official casting announcements, we decided to ask you! Our recent poll asked readers who they think should play the brooding and powerful Xaden—and more than 2,000 votes poured in.

Keep scrolling to meet all of your handsome potential Xadens, ranked by reader votes! From Heartbreak High‘s Josh Heuston to Beef‘s Charles Melton, every star below has serious potential to play Basgiath’s resident ‘shadow daddy.’ Did your favorite make the cut?

Fifth place: Charles Melton as Xaden—a ‘book-accurate’ choice

One repeat name circulating fancasting forums: Charles Melton, 35. The  award-winning American actor had a breakthrough role in CW’s Riverdale and has since starred in multiple critically acclaimed movies like, The Sun is Also a Star and May December. Raised as an Army brat, Melton played college football before pursuing modeling and acting.

What fans are saying: “If we’re talking most book-accurate Xaden Riorson—not just “hot,” not just BookTok vibes—but how he’s actually written on the page, Charles Melton is my pick. For me, he’s the best balance of physicality, temperament and presence.”

Entertainment

'Fourth Wing’ 4: 'Someone You Love Won't Make It,’ Says Rebecca Yarros

It’s been more than a year since Rebecca Yarros released Onyx Storm, the third book in her bestselling Empyrean series, and to many readers’ dismay, it ended with a cliffhanger, which left them begging for the fourth book. And now after many, many months, Yarros has finally given the romantasy world an update on when […]

Fourth place: Michael Yerger as Xaden—the stunning surprise 

Michael Yerger, 27, has recently become a popular fancasting pick for Xaden and is consistently mentioned in Reddit threads and other polls. Fans specifically point to his look and age as a strong fit for the brooding, dark romantic lead. Yerger is known as a model, investor and former contestant on Survivor.

What fans are saying: “This man was so breathtakingly gorgeous on Survivor 35. I would just love to see him become a huge star and get a role as a leading man in a romantasy adaptation like Fourth Wing (hello, Xaden) or even A Court of Thorns and Roses.”

Entertainment

‘Survivor’ 50 Brings Celeb Cameos to CBS—See Who's Joining the Adventure

Calling all castaways! The hit CBS show Survivor is officially coming back for a historic 50th season, and trust us when we say you haven’t seen anything yet. To learn more about the season, including if they are doing anything special for this special anniversary, keep scrolling!  What makes ‘Survivor’ 50 different from every other […]

Third place: Avan Jogia as Xaden—from ‘Victorious’ to Basgiath? 

Avan Jogia has quickly risen to the top of fans’ dream casting lists for Xaden Riorson—and it’s easy to see why. Best known for his roles on Victorious and Twisted, Jogia captures Xaden’s brooding intensity and sharp features. 

Jogia also has a magnetic screen presence that aligns perfectly with Xaden’s dark, enigmatic appeal. Born in Vancouver and of British-Indian and European heritage, he left school at 16 to pursue acting and has since built a multifaceted career as a writer, director and musician.

What fans are saying: “Avan Jogia (you might recognize him as Beck from Victorious) is exactly who I picture as Xaden Riorson!”

Second place: Josh Heuston as Xaden—the viral TikTok favorite

Over the past few months, a majority of the viral fancasting buzz has centered on Josh Heuston as Xaden. The 28-year-old Heartbreak High star is well aware of the speculation and has been asked about it on multiple red carpets. “I think it’s a great world, the books are great, I’ve read them all now,” Heuston told Marie Claire in an interview. 

Fans have been doing some detective work, and the clues are adding up: He’s been spotted reading The Empyrean series in public. His Instagram bio includes a dragon emoji. And he posted a boxing clip with the caption ‘violence’—which devoted readers immediately recognized as Xaden’s nickname for Violet in the novels. Coincidence? Fans think not!

What fans are saying: “Ever since seeing Josh Heuston’s handsome face and on-screen charisma in Dune Prophecy—especially that one clip going viral on TikTok of him walking in wearing all that armor and leather—I can totally imagine him as Xaden. He has my vote!”

First place: Emilio Sakraya as Xaden—’Woman’s World’ readers’ top pick!

Drumroll, please! Meet Emilio Sakraya—the actor Woman’s World readers crowned as their #1 pick for Xaden Riorson! The 29-year-old German actor is best known for his roles in Netflix’s Warrior Nun and Tribes of Europa as well as the critically acclaimed film Rhinegold. 

Fourth Wing fans constantly throw Sakraya’s name into heated fancasting discussions, often favoring him for his unique ability to capture any character’s dark, “menacing” energy. Other fun facts about him: Sakraya is a former karate champion and he’s a singer.

What fans are saying: “Emilio Sakraya is the perfect Xaden. I said what I said.”

When will the ‘Fourth Wing’ TV series air?

Official casting announcements and premiere dates have not yet been released. However, there’s a shimmering silver lining—fans may have the fourth installment of The Empyrean series to tide themselves over soon. Yarros recently confirmed on her Instagram that she was actively working on the next installment in The Empyrean series. In the caption, she wrote: “Feels like a great day to start a stack of index cards.” Yarros famously uses index cards to plot her layered romantasy plotlines—and hundreds of thousands of fans liked the post.

To learn more about this mystery book, including details on what it could be and when you can expect to get your hands on it, keep reading! 

Entertainment

Is This Our Xaden Riorson? We Fancasted the Coveted 'Fourth Wing' Role! Thoughts?

It’s an excellent month to be a Fourth Wing fan! In case you missed it, Michael B. Jordan’s Outlier Society is officially bringing Rebecca Yarros’ dragon-rider series to Prime Video. Plus, Yarros herself is serving as executive producer on the Fourth Wing TV series and has already read—and loved—two versions of the script. Thank gods. […]

What we know so far about Rebecca Yarros’ next book 

In March, Yarros teased book 4 on Instagram, telling readers, “I’m back writing in the Empyrean world for the foreseeable future. Let’s ride.”

Then, on Saturday, April 18, Yarros was back on Instagram, sharing that her untitled Empyrean novel had hit number one on the Amazon bestseller list, despite the fact that it hasn’t officially been announced yet. She also shared a little bit more about what the novel was going to be about, writing “this hasn’t altered book 4’s timeline in the least…This is NOT the upcoming graphic novel.” 

“Okay, so I had this little idea about a year ago to drop a surprise for you guys. But then you not only found it as soon as my publisher put it on preorder, but shot it straight to number one on Amazon without a cover, title, or even a vague idea of what might be coming your way!?!? You’ve rendered me speechless,” the author continued. “Surprise has been the goal, but I can’t sit here silently and not tell you how thankful I am for you. How utterly overwhelmed I am by the continuous love this community gives. Please know that I never take your enthusiasm and dedication for granted. I know how rare this air is. You are a constant source of joy not just in my life but each other’s, and gratitude doesn’t begin to describe how I feel about this community.”

What will the new Empyrean book be about? 

Thrilled fans have been speculating online, tossing around ideas about the plot. Some think it will be a full copy of Major Afendra’s Guide to the Riders Quadrant (Unauthorized Edition), which is heavily quoted at the beginning of several chapters throughout the series. Others think it could be a prequel about Violet’s father or even the history of the dragons. 

“I really hope it’s Tairn’s [one of Violet’s dragons] autobiography,” one person commented on Yarros’ post. 

“I have a feeling it’s Andarna’s [Violet’s other dragon] diary rants about Tairn tbh,” another one commented. 

And then of course, despite Yarros confirming that it is not book four, some readers are speculating it could be more of a 3.5 situation, offering up some details that were left out of book 3, Onyx Storm. That theory was further confirmed after readers learned the new book is only 176 pages, which is about 400 pages shorter than the other books in the series. 

“176 pages,” commented one reader. “That could be just long enough of a novella to explain those 12 hours that Violet was missing.”  

Entertainment

Michael B. Jordan Reveals Rare Update on 'Fourth Wing' TV Series!

Dragon riders, rejoice! In recent years, Rebecca Yarros’ romantasy bestseller Fourth Wing has taken the world by storm. Skyrocketing beyond BookTok, The Empyrean series has sold more than 12 million copies and the third installment, Onyx Storm, was the fastest-selling adult novel of the last two decades. Now, fans finally have an update on the […]

When will the new Rebecca Yarros book be released? 

The untitled Empyrean novel will be released on Tuesday, September 29, 2026. You can pre-order it now wherever books are sold. 

“This one is for you guys,” Yarros wrote. “I hope you love it as much as I’ve loved writing it.” 

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In the book, Orr pairs lush photography with a variety of easy-to-do projects, from crafting color schemes to building wildlife habitats. He recalls his early gardening days on a New York City rooftop, rearranging pots of roses, herbs and perennials. Later, in Des Moines, his shady new yard leads him to embrace plants like lungworts and epimediums, while his Cape Cod garden serves as an experimental space shaped by sandy soil and coastal storms.

Throughout each essay, Orr’s signature wit, warmth and knowledge capture the life-changing joy and calm of gardening. Here, an exclusive preview of his essay ‘Rose-Colored Glasses’ just for WW readers!

Excerpt of ‘The Gardener’s Mindset’ by Stephen Orr

I carry with me a mental scrapbook of special plants from my childhood. These sensory recollections can pop up suddenly when I catch the scent of lilac on the breeze or see a flash of peony pink while passing in the car. When such memories surface, I try to pause and reflect on the moment that accompanies them: playing hide-and-seek in the neighbor’s shrubs on a spring day or riding with my parents to church.

I grew up in the small city of Abilene, Texas. Our street wasn’t busy with cars, and we knew the names of every homeowner on the block. The summers were filled with kids roaming here and there without a care, through front yards, over fences, and even occasionally into backyards. We knew from experience which neighbors might give us trouble and tell our parents what we were up to.

When my friends were occupied elsewhere, I’d explore the neighborhood alone. I can still map out the plants I doted on along my West Texas street like it was yesterday. A wisteria trained into a single stem stood at the end of the block, almost like a short stylized tree you’d find in an Alice in Wonderland book. When it was in full bloom, I’d spend hours sitting underneath its low branches like I was in my own clubhouse, inhaling the sweet-corn fragrance from the long purple racemes.

I also visited the roses on the block, many quite tall and spindly from lack of pruning. I’d ramble around in the summer sun, going on tiptoe, sniffing to check which were scented and which weren’t. I can easily imagine a neighbor spotting me from the window and telling their spouse, “George, that Orr boy is in the backyard again.” I still find scentless roses a bit disappointing.

In our backyard was a single-petaled pink ‘Betty Prior’ rose by the back gate, flanked by two old-fashioned bridal wreath bushes (Spiraea x vanhouttei) that bloomed in a fountain of white froth in May. My dad and I also tended a low row of tiny Polyantha roses in the front beds and a classic ‘Chicago Peace’ hybrid tea in the back. I remember him telling me all the names of the roses and showing me their tags. Though these plants might be considered ordinary or outdated compared to newer hybrids, for me they hold a sentimental value.

Next to our front steps was a dense patch of red-flowered plants with a spicy, powdery fragrance I found intriguing. I enjoyed cutting the scarlet flowers with their brushy white stripes for the house, though my mom did not exactly enjoy the way the hollow stems dripped water on the carpet when I carried them in. For years, I tried to locate this mystery plant. Although they looked like some sort of frost-tender amaryllis, they were hardy, able to withstand the winter temperatures that could dip into the teens or twenties in our part of Texas. My parents referred to them as daylilies (Hemerocallis), but clearly they weren’t because they each had a distinct bulb. Years later, thanks to the internet, I found out that it was a St. Joseph’s lily (Hippeastrum x johnsonii), an heirloom variety of amaryllis that had become a pass-along plant in Texas, typically only found in older gardens. Once, when I was in my twenties and I’d returned to Texas for a visit to see my parents, I dug up a patch of the bulbs and transported them in a carry-on bag to NYC. I grew them in my apartment as a potted houseplant for a few years before they petered out.

Several houses on my West Texas block were distinctive because they avoided ordinary suburban foundation shrub plantings and tidy green lawns. One front yard featured what we’d now call a xeriscape or dry garden composed of crushed white rock, red yuccas, and silver santolina. I remember the tactile sensation of the little yellow pincushion santolina flowers when I’d crush them in my hand on the way to school. Most significantly, I recall their scent, which was acrid and bitter but pleasantly reminiscent of the desert not so many miles to the west of us. Currently, I grow half a dozen santolina in my Cape garden, and their scent evokes memories of those original plants every time I sniff them. Botanical fragrances have always been big triggers for me as mnemonic devices, not so surprising since the sense of smell is one of the most primitive of our senses, hardwired in our forebrain.

Though my dad didn’t consider himself much of a gardener, he greatly influenced my interests as a young child. He often took me for after-dinner walks on spring evenings to pick wildflowers, usually just the two of us. Texas wildflowers are in a class by themselves. The pungent smell of the blanket flowers, bluebonnets, coreopsis, evening primroses, paintbrushes, and sand verbenas we gathered to bring home takes me back to those days. And yes, we picked wildflowers back then—we didn’t know any better. They were ostensibly for my mom, but I suspect I might’ve treasured them even more. I made flower arrangements for her all spring and summer, sometimes from fields by the highway or from our garden, or sometimes from a neighbor’s yard.

Across the street from us lived an elderly couple with the wonderfully anachronistic names of Overton and Sybil Faubus, who enjoyed the act of gardening more than most of our other neighbors. I can picture them—Mrs. Faubus in her capri pants and bejeweled glasses, and Mr. Faubus always gentlemanly in his wide-brimmed ranch hat and khaki coveralls. During growing season, I’d often be at their side “helping out” while they worked. Their pristine lawn was the finest in the neighborhood, and they did not like us kids playing on it, particularly with games like swinging statue or red rover that involved a lot of running and skidding on the turf. The Faubuses had the first hydrangeas and lilacs I’d ever seen. Whether they realized it or not, they were my mentors as knowledgeable gardeners familiar with the names of the plants they were growing. The reverence and care they gave their gardens let me know that what they were growing was special, even if fairly common.

Recently, I started growing the old-fashioned annual balsam impatiens (also known as touch-me-nots) in memory of the Faubuses, who first demonstrated to me how the spring-loaded seeds exploded when pinched. Being rampant self-seeders, these plants have now popped up all over my vegetable garden, but I don’t mind. They’re easy to remove.

At this point you might be wondering, did this kid have friends? Yes, I did, thank you for asking. I was part of a gang of children on the block. During summer breaks, we’d meet up at a particular group of tall sycamores that served as our skyscraper meeting place. We usually climbed them as a group, each of us sitting on our preferred branch in the largest tree, which I had named Zeus after developing an obsession with my older sister’s Greek mythology schoolbook by Edith Hamilton.

Over the course of several summers, I ended up naming most of the larger trees on the block. Hera was naturally the large sycamore next to her husband Zeus. Poseidon was another tall tree located in my friend’s backyard with his wife Amphitrite next to him. Apollo and Artemis were two silvery pecan trees that were beautiful to look at but uncomfortable to climb with their rough bark. If any adults were paying attention in those days, they must’ve thought it odd to see a group of 8-year-olds running down the street proclaiming, “I’m climbing Zeus! I’ve got dibs on Poseidon!”

Our parents would have been horrified to know how far we’d clambered up those trees. I recall several instances when my friends and I climbed high into a fifty-foot sycamore, feeling it sway wildly in the winds of an approaching West Texas thunderstorm. Reflecting on it now, I feel a sense of fear in the pit of my stomach, but I didn’t feel afraid then. Like most young people, then and now, we were shielded by our naivety and sense of invincibility. What a thrill those climbs were as we screamed and laughed, the wind buffeting us as we perched precariously in Zeus’s upper branches and clutched the trunk. Only the onset of the first heavy raindrops and flashes of lightning would compel us to finally come to our senses and scramble down like silly monkeys.

Entertainment

Author Rhys Bowen Reflects on the Books That Shaped Her (EXCL)

Greetings, fellow bookworms! Here at Woman’s World, it’s no secret our staff is filled with book lovers. When we’re not reading books, we’re writing about books, talking about books or recommending books. But one of the best parts of our jobs is connecting with authors. Whether we’re interviewing a writer about a recent release, asking […]

The lesson? Our parents never knew a thing. We’re all still here, and I continue to have an enduring fondness for sycamores and their smooth, velvety branches.

Want to read the whole book? Pre-order The Gardener’s Mindset now. On sale May 5!

Excerpted from The Gardener’s Mindset by Stephen Orr. Text and photographs copyright ©2026 by Stephen Orr. Illustrations copyright © 2026 by Chad Jacobs. Photograph on page 75 by Johanna Burke. Photograph on page 198 by Nancy Iacoi. Published in the United States by Clarkson Potter, an imprint of the Crown Publishing Group, a division of Penguin Random House LLC. 

A version of this article appeared in the April 27, 2026 print issue of Woman’s World. 

‘Bridgerton’ 

While the hit Netflix show Bridgerton has had a lot of differences from the book series, the biggest change will happen in Season 5. Based on the sixth book in the series, When He Was Wicked, the plot will follow Francesca Bridgerton after the death of her husband, John Stirling. In the book, Francesca falls in love with John’s best friend, Michael Stirling, but in the show she will fall in love with Michaela Stirling, John’s female cousin.

“The book will always exist as well [but] I’m really, really excited to tell this story and also give it the platform it deserves, like a leading storyline, not additional characters,” Hannah Dodd, who plays Francesca on the show, told Refinery29 earlier this year. 

Masali Baduza, who plays Michaela Stirling, told the outlet, “I understand that the Bridgerton book fans are very passionate about these characters, and I am too. I love Michaela so much, and I am just very proud to tell the story alongside Hannah.” 

“I think everyone’s story deserves to be told, and in Bridgerton, a lot of the characters are growing into themselves and learning new things about themselves,” Baduza added. “I think that the show accepts that, I think it’s important for everyone else to accept that too, and hopefully that can be reflected back into society.”

Entertainment

Michael B. Jordan Reveals Rare Update on 'Fourth Wing' TV Series!

Dragon riders, rejoice! In recent years, Rebecca Yarros’ romantasy bestseller Fourth Wing has taken the world by storm. Skyrocketing beyond BookTok, The Empyrean series has sold more than 12 million copies and the third installment, Onyx Storm, was the fastest-selling adult novel of the last two decades. Now, fans finally have an update on the […]

‘Wicked’ 

The Wicked movie and the Broadway show were vastly different from Gregory Maguire’s 1995 fantasy novel. In the book, there was a lot more time between Glinda and Elphaba’s time at Shiz University and the end. The book also devotes more time to Elphaba’s childhood, has a whole new cast of characters and shows readers just how dark Oz can get—specifically regarding animal rights. Despite all that, Maguire still loves the movie. 

“It’s far better than it has any right to be,” he said of the movie, in November 2024, per Yahoo!

Entertainment

‘Love Me Love Me’: What To Know About Prime Video’s Wattpad Adaptation

In the world of viral book-to-screen adaptations like After, Maxton Hall or My Life With The Walter Boys, it’s clear that audiences love academia settings, slow-burn romance and tropes like opposites attract. And Love Me Love Me—the latest YA (young adult but loved by all adults!) romance offering from Prime Video—double checks all these boxes.  […]

‘Percy Jackson and The Olympians: The Sea of Monsters’ 

In Season 2 of Disney+’s hit series Percy Jackson and The Olympians, several additions were made to make it more modern. Not only did the show expand upon Clarisse La Rue’s journey to the Sea of Monsters (Dior Goodjohn), but viewers also got to see more of Luke Castellan (Charlie Bushnell) and learn why he left Camp Half Blood and teamed up with Kronos. There were also many little changes, such as Percy Jackson (Walker Scobell) and Tyson’s (Daniel Diemer) first meeting and how Percy and Annabeth Chase (Leah Sava Jeffries) feel about one another, but none were as substantial as expanding on side characters’ stories. 

“As the kids say, it hits differently when it’s on the screen. Seeing it visually just has a bigger impact, so I have learned to be cognizant that a moment I describe in writing may come across as much more powerful—and maybe too powerful—if it were shown the same way on screen,” author Rick Riordan told Variety in 2025. “It’s important that we honor the source material story, in that Percy and Annabeth’s relationship is a very slow burn, and we’re not going to get there right away. It’s delayed gratification. Are they going to be more than friends? We don’t know, and that’s not going to be answered for quite a while. However, their friendship is deepening and being tested in new ways, and it’s even more powerful to see that in the second season.” 

‘The Idea of You’ 

Initially a Harry Styles fanfiction, The Idea of You follows single mother Soléne after she falls in love with Hayes Campbell, a handsome young singer. It’s based on Robinne Lee’s bestselling novel, and while the film is pretty accurate, the ending was changed from a heartbreaking breakup to a hopeful “five-year-later” reunion.

“I was not involved at all in the adaptation,” Lee told Entertainment Weekly. “The movie ending could have happened in the book too, I suppose, years down the line, but that’s not the story I wanted to tell. I wanted to make a point about how, as women, we put others’ happiness before our own.” 

“It’s America—Hollywood’s going to do what they’re going to do, and they’re going to throw a happy ending on everything,” she continued. “I don’t know why. You hope they’ll keep to what you’ve written because it meant something to you, but you also have to think about the box office and viewers and what their audience is going to want to see.”

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