If you're looking for your next book club pick, why not explore the incredible literary talent right here in the Pacific Northwest? Seattle has long been a haven for writers, and our local authors are creating some of the most compelling, thought-provoking, and entertaining books on shelves today. From heartwarming contemporary fiction to wild literary adventures, these five Seattle-based authors offer something for every reader.

Laurie Frankel: Contemporary Fiction That Sparks Conversation

Seattle author Laurie Frankel writes the kind of novels that book clubs dream about—stories packed with heart, humor, and important themes that generate meaningful discussion. Her breakout novel This Is How It Always Is tackles family, identity, and unconditional love with warmth and wisdom. More recently, One Two Three showcases her talent for creating unforgettable characters while addressing environmental justice. Frankel's Seattle roots shine through in her compassionate storytelling, making her books perfect for groups who love diving deep into character-driven narratives.

Book Club Pick: This Is How It Always Is - Be prepared for tears, laughter, and one of the best discussions your group will have all year.

Kira Jane Buxton: Unexpected Humor Meets Heart

Want something completely different for your Seattle book club? Kira Jane Buxton's Hollow Kingdom is narrated by a foul-mouthed crow named S.T. during the apocalypse—and it's absolutely brilliant. This Seattle writer brings dark humor, surprising emotional depth, and a unique perspective to post-apocalyptic fiction. Her follow-up, Feral Creatures, continues the adventure while exploring themes of survival, found family, and what it means to be human (even when you're not). Buxton's work is perfect for book clubs who appreciate wit, originality, and stories that defy genre conventions.

Book Club Pick: Hollow Kingdom - This quirky, touching novel will have your group laughing one moment and getting misty-eyed the next.

Debbie Macomber: Seattle's Queen of Heartwarming Fiction

No list of Seattle authors would be complete without Debbie Macomber, the beloved writer who has penned over 200 novels from her home in the Pacific Northwest. Known for her Cedar Cove series (set in a fictional Washington town) and countless standalone romance and women's fiction titles, Macomber specializes in feel-good stories about community, second chances, and the power of connection. Her books are consistently bestsellers and offer the perfect cozy escape for book clubs looking for uplifting reads, especially during the rainy Seattle months.

Book Club Pick: The Shop on Blossom Street - The first in a series about a knitting shop that brings together an unlikely group of friends. Warm, relatable, and discussion-friendly.

Tom Robbins: Literary Rebellion with a Seattle Twist

For book clubs ready to venture into wilder literary territory, Seattle icon Tom Robbins delivers philosophical adventures wrapped in eccentric humor and psychedelic prose. With classics like Another Roadside Attraction and Still Life with Woodpecker, Robbins has been pushing boundaries and bending minds for decades. His unconventional narratives, quirky characters, and free-spirited approach to storytelling reflect the independent spirit that makes Seattle's literary scene so vibrant. Warning: Robbins isn't for every book club, but for adventurous readers, he's an unforgettable experience.

Book Club Pick: Jitterbug Perfume - A wild ride through immortality, beets, and perfume that will give your group plenty to unpack.

Richard Chiem: Atmospheric and Haunting Modern Literature

Seattle author Richard Chiem represents the city's contemporary literary edge with his atmospheric, dreamlike prose. His novel You Private Person and short story collection King of Joy showcase a minimalist style that creates maximum emotional impact. Chiem's work explores isolation, connection, and the spaces between reality and memory with a cinematic quality that feels distinctly Pacific Northwest—moody, introspective, and beautiful. He's ideal for book clubs interested in literary fiction that lingers in your mind long after the final page.

Book Club Pick: You Private Person - A slim, powerful novel perfect for a single meeting with rich discussions about identity and human connection.

Supporting Local Seattle Writers

Reading local Seattle authors does more than just provide great book club material—it supports our regional literary community and gives you insight into the culture, landscape, and spirit of the Pacific Northwest. Many of these writers do readings and events around Seattle, offering book clubs the chance to meet authors in person or even arrange virtual Q&A sessions. Seattle Book Club is proud to shine the spotlight on local authors, and we will be hosting Haley Shapley on December 7th at U Wine Bar in Wallingford.

What Seattle authors has your book club enjoyed? Who are you most excited to read?