I know, I know. I’m terrible at updating this blog.
But I’ve been waiting for some good news to post, since I try to keep this a positive place. And so far 2025 hasn’t been a real bundle of laughs. I know most of you agree because I’ve been inundated with people (and memes) asking, “How can I get citizenship in Genovia?”
Ha! If I had inside information on emigrating to Genovia, I would be there myself! But I’m the royal biographer, and I don’t even qualify for a work visa, let alone citizenship.
I have no movie news, either (that I’m allowed to discuss in public). So since we can’t escape to Genovia, what can we do?
Escape into a book!
I know, I know. Of COURSE an author is going to say that! So predictable. I get it. Who even has time to read?
Except…reading is the only thing that’s gotten me through these past few months. I was just starting to feel better after my heart surgery when my mom was diagnosed with dementia, and I had to help move her to a safer environment (which she now loves, but she was not at all happy about at the time).
And then, of course, Pearl broke the bone that attaches her tail to her spine, and now she is incontinent and has to have her bladder expressed four-five times a day.
This waterproof bedspread is a life saver
I feel like a lot of us are going through something similar right now. Okay, maybe you don’t have a wonky heart, parent with dementia, or an incontinent cat.
But multiple studies/polls show that stress levels in America (as well as elsewhere in the world) are at an all-time high!
Fortunately multiple studies ALSO show that one of the best ways to relax, unwind, and reset is to read a book (preferably fiction). Reading helps with depression, stress, dementia…even popcorn brain!
I know it can be hard to find time to read in today’s hectic world, and even harder to find books that keep us engaged. But I’ve had a lot of success lowering my stress levels by re-reading beloved favorites. It still counts as reading if you read something for the 439th time (me with Cold Comfort Farm)! You’re not the same person that you were the first time you read it, so the book might hit in different ways. And even if it doesn’t…hey, it’s great to escape into a fictional world!
That’s why right now, during these “unprecedented times,” I’m doing my part to help combat stress by giving away copies of your favorite Meg Cabot comfort reads—for FREE!
Meg Cabot Comfort Read Giveaway
All you have to do is fill out this form. Then, if your name is chosen, I will mail you a signed Meg Cabot book (again, for FREE)! If you need help choosing a favorite, try our Favorite Finder.
I’m doing this because ever since I started re-reading some of my favorite books (North and South by Elizabeth Gaskell! Miss Mole by EH Young!) I’ve felt much better. I can even concentrate on NEW books!
What are some new books I’ve enjoyed lately?
In no particular order (and by no means a complete list):
The Education of Kia Greer by Alanna Bennett – A sweet and spicy older YA romance that offers readers an “inside peek” at life inside a wealthy but dysfunctional reality TV family! Perfect when you want something dishy, but also engrossing. Kia is everything, but Cass! OMG.
Contemplation of a Crime by Susan Juby – Yes, I’m biased, because Susan is one of my favorite writers (and people). But I think anyone would find comfort in this smart new adult mystery series featuring a crime-solving Buddhist butler!
Grand Finales by Susan Gubar – Think your life will be over if you don’t get that book published/play produced/record deal by the time you’re 30? Read this book immediately. You will be so, so comforted and inspired by the women in this book, all of whom managed to find ways to keep creating art later in life, despite tremendous health/family/career challenges. This book is the perfect gift for any creator you know. Full disclosure: I am biased about this Susan, too. I used to babysit her kids back in the 1980s while she was writing her previous brilliant books! She is a total inspiration.
Meet Me At Wonderland by Julia DeVillers – A new Julia DeVillers is always a treat, and this one is no exception. Funny and sweet, this younger YA has everything you want in a summer read, including humor, heat (especially under that moose head), very little angst, and a sweet little romance.
Under the Same Stars by Libba Bray – Shout out to Libba, who is yet another woman I admire. I’m so glad she has a new book out! I haven’t had a chance to read this one yet, but it’s at the top of TBR pile. I’m told it’s amazing.
Disappearing into a good book has always been my go-to move when the bad news becomes too much—only I tend to WRITE books when things are bad, as opposed to reading them.
That’s why in the past few months, I’ve handed in FOUR new books that will be making their way to shelves in 2026 and beyond (more news on them, as well as movie news, closer to release dates).
Until then, I hope you’ll find comfort/nostalgia in my previous releases, and a fresh new story to comfort you in my recs above!
What is this? A new author photo by Michael Blades?! Yes, it is!
It gives me so much comfort to remember that we readers are a community—and as a community, we help each other out! We’re all in this together…and together, I know we’re going make it.
More later.
Much love,
Meg
