Novel Pairings

Lit. Books & Brews is a one-of-a-kind hybrid bookstore and bar located at 1118 Castle St. Our vision was to create a welcoming and inclusive space where literature lovers and craft beer enthusiasts can come together to relax, connect and enjoy an unforgettable experience. We offer rotating local brews, a selection of wines, and both new and used books in popular genres.

The idea was inspired by the book club we began in 2023. We met monthly at different breweries and bars across town to support local venues and discuss our favorite reads. Creating this space for others to enjoy quickly became the goal, and we’ve had so much fun bringing it to life. 

Our book recommendations this season include:

Personal Favorite

I Who Have Never Known Men by Jacqueline Harpman, translated by Ros Schwartz, with a contribution by Sophie Mackintosh

Genre: Dystopian fiction, post-apocalyptic fiction and feminist speculative literature

A short novel with a unique take on a post-apocalyptic event, the story follows 40 women who have been isolated for unknown reasons and have no true memory of how they entered their imprisonment. An unexpected event leads to their “freedom,” when they discover just how isolated they truly are.

This book piques curiosity over and over again, examining human nature through relationships and personal growth and how both are ever-changing in the most unpredictable environments.

This book is meant for those who enjoy experiencing a story from a new point of view. You will find yourself immersed in the lives of these women as you examine how you might respond if you were in their shoes. It’s a thoughtful yet grim story of what our existence could be.

Book Club Favorite

Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll

Genre: Thriller, historical fiction and true crime

A compelling thriller based on a well-known true crime that took place at a sorority house in 1978. Written primarily from the perspective of Pamela Schumacher, the sorority president, it describes the aftermath of the horrific crime and follows her life as she takes on the killer and unveils injustices in our legal system. Pamela forms an unlikely friendship with Tina, who thinks the killer is also responsible for a missing woman in her life. Together, they bond over their shared determination to reveal the truth.

This is a well-known story reimagined to focus on the female victims rather than the typical idolization of the serial killer. Dual storylines provide strong feminist themes and in-depth character development that fans of true crime or women-led fiction will appreciate.

Anticipated Read in 2027

The Stars Look Like Home by TJ Klune  (Release date: Jan. 12, 2027)

Genre: General fiction, animals and contemporary fiction

This heartwarming story is told from the perspective of a dog named Burke and follows his journey to discover the truth about life. As a puppy, his mother tells him life is like “stars in the sky, an everlasting light in the darkness.” Because of this, he believes he will live forever. But after a series of early trials and being separated from the man he finally bonds with, he discovers the finality of life. He embarks on an adventure of self-discovery through the wilderness and teaches us how to treasure the time we have in this world.

This book is bound to take readers on an emotional and beautiful journey. Any animal lover will appreciate the creative and inspiring dive into the mind of man’s best friend. Break out the tissues for this one!