The Banned Books Club: A Novel By Brenda Novak

Gia Rossi left her hometown of Wakefield, Iowa, under a cloud of scandal, her departure marked by a painful rift with her family and a community that turned against her. Years later, when her sister Margot calls for help with their ailing mother, Gia feels compelled to return despite the unresolved wounds of her past.

Home again, Gia finds her return far from welcoming. The Banned Books Club she started remains a contentious topic, and her former favorite teacher, Mr. Hart, is still a painful reminder of why she fled. Mr. Hart, fired after Gia’s public accusation of sexual misconduct, is the very reason she left Wakefield and hoped never to face again.

As Margot abruptly leaves town without explanation, Gia is confronted with the reality of her sister’s supposedly perfect life, now crumbling. The town becomes divided, with old wounds reopening as members of the book club and the community take sides between Gia and Mr. Hart.

Determined to support her family and seek justice, Gia navigates the treacherous waters of small-town politics and personal betrayal. Through the struggle, she discovers unexpected allies and starts to rebuild her shattered life. As she stands up for the truth, Gia not only confronts her past but also finds a new sense of belonging and love in the town she once thought had rejected her forever.

“A sharply plotted, emotionally intense novel of family secrets, fresh starts, and community.” 📚❤️