WVBC monthly: chapter 05
swooning over our cozy, rain-soaked May gathering!
Hello, dear readers!
May swept in like a scene change—blossoms in full drama, sidewalks sun-dappled, and that delicious moment where iced coffee officially outpaces hot lattes. From stoop-side chats to golden-hour strolls past lilac-lined brownstones, May reminded us why we fell for the West Village in the first place. And our latest WVBC gathering? It was all love, laughter, and the kind of friendship that would’ve made our Sex and the City girls proud.
ps. if you’re new here (welcome!) or missed last month’s recap, be sure to check it out below!
Included in this month’s recap:
Recap of our May WVBC pick and meeting, They Dream In Gold by Mai Sennaar
Member Moment: Meet Laura Giunta
Local business love: New York Pilates
What else we’re reading right now: a peek into our ‘Just Read’ lists
Also, this post is too long for email, so we suggest reading it on Substack!
WVBC May Pick: They Dream In Gold by Mai Sennaar
Our May gathering traded golden hour for rain-soaked charm, and honestly? It was pure New York magic. Hosted by the ever-gracious Laura, we cozied up indoors while the city drizzled outside, turning a rainy evening into something intimate, electric, and full of heart—very Sex and the City, if you ask us.
We dove into They Dream in Gold by Mai Sennaar, a sweeping, lyrical debut that follows Bonnie, a young Black American woman, and Mansour, a Senegalese jazz musician, as they fall in love in 1968 New York and are swept into a journey that spans continents—from Paris to Rio to Spain. When Mansour disappears mid-tour, Bonnie, now pregnant, is left to uncover the mystery of his past and the legacy of their love.
We chose the novel after attending a Q&A with the author, moderated by none other than Sarah Jessica Parker, who published the book under her Zando imprint, SJP Lit. A story about music, identity, and the endurance of love across borders and generations, They Dream in Gold sparked one of our richest discussions yet—and reminded us just how powerful stories (and friendship) can be.
Member Moment: Meet Laura Giunta
WVBC: Rapid fire intro Qs!!
Zodiac sign? Aquarius
Kindle or physical book? Physical book
Preferred audiobook platform? Libro.fm
Most beloved NY bookstore? McNally Jackson in SoHo
All-time favorite author? Rebecca Serle
Favorite book of all time? Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
Laura, you’re the most voracious reader in our group—what sparked your love of books, and how has your relationship with reading evolved over the years?
I haven’t always been a reader—let alone “the most voracious reader in our group” (thank you for saying that; I’m very competitive). In fact, I was regularly pulled out of P.E. class in third grade for reading comprehension tutoring. You’d think the daughter of an English teacher would do better!
I started reading because saying “in this book I read” sounds so much better than “in this show I watched.” I needed something interesting to put on my dating profile. I wanted to seem mysterious at the airport.
I remember the moment I realized I actually loved reading. It was in high school, probably while trying to impress someone. I picked up The Great Gatsby and discovered that reading could be fun—when it wasn’t a school assignment.
When I moved to New York, I went straight to the Barnes & Noble in Union Square and bought a stack of books for my first apartment. Nothing elevates a space quite like books. I didn’t read as much then as I do now, but I always loved what Sarah Jessica Parker said in an interview about her mom: her mom required all of her children to have a book on them at all times. Frankly, I can’t think of a better accessory.
My relationship with reading changed dramatically when my ex got rid of my entire book collection after our breakup. I loved reading before, but after that, reading became my whole personality. Over the last few years, I’ve rebuilt my collection and read more than ever. I read every day—it’s how I unwind before bed and how I keep learning.
While I cherish my solo reading time, I’m extremely extroverted and social. What I love most about books is how they bring people together. I’ve made so many connections with people I’d otherwise have nothing to talk about. Books have helped me meet new people and strengthen existing relationships—and maybe one day, I’ll meet a man worth my time who can read. Because reading is hot, and books are undeniably sexy.
You live in SoHo and work at Cartier—two worlds that feel steeped in style and storytelling. How do your surroundings (and job!) shape the way you approach books and beauty alike?
I live in my dream neighborhood. Is there anything more stylish than SoHo? Working for Cartier is every bit as fabulous as it sounds. I’m incredibly proud of my career and fortunate to have worked with some amazing brands—but representing such an iconic maison, steeped in history and tradition, is exactly what I envisioned when I dreamed of moving to New York City and working in fashion. Sometimes I still have to pinch myself—I can hardly believe this is my life.
Personal style means the world to me. Having spent my entire career in luxury retail, how I present myself is deeply influenced by that experience. I feel the same way about books—they’re just as important to me. I always want to have something meaningful to share about what I’m reading on any given day. I care about my outfit just as much as I do about the book in my hands.
My personal style is timeless. I’ve always had an eye for well-crafted pieces, and I cherish what I’ve collected over the years. But the most treasured items in my closet were passed down from my mom and grandmothers. I love the idea that books can be passed down through generations, too. You can learn so much about a person by what they love to read, and I consider what I’m reading a true reflection of my personal style.
You’ve taken an interest in reading some of the classic New York novels. What is it about a book written in another era altogether that speaks to you? And any backlist recs?
I love New York so much. Yesterday marked my 10-year anniversary living here—I’m officially a New Yorker, and I couldn’t be prouder. One of my favorite spots is McNally Jackson’s “New York Novels” section, which features books set in the city across different eras. I’m fascinated by what life was like here at various points in history. There’s something truly special about discovering a book written in another time that still resonates today. And honestly, who doesn’t love romanticizing the past? I’ll never stop glamorizing New York in the 1920s Jazz Age or the wild days of Studio 54 in the 1970s.
Speaking of books from another era, I mentioned this in last month’s newsletter and still can’t stop recommending it—McNally Editions. This is the publishing arm of McNally Jackson, dedicated to rediscovering and reintroducing overlooked literary gems. They publish beautiful, high-quality editions of works that may have been unjustly neglected. The store even has a whole section devoted to these stunning books, which I can’t praise enough.
One standout recommendation is Ex-Wife by Ursula Parrott. Originally published anonymously in 1929, it was an instant bestseller. The novel explores divorce and its aftermath in the Jazz Age—a topic that scandalized readers then but still feels incredibly relevant today. It reads like contemporary fiction, with themes that remain surprisingly familiar. I loved Parrott’s unique take on what she called “the era of the one-night stand.” The afterword, written by her son, adds fascinating context about her tumultuous life, including three more marriages and rumored liaisons with F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sinclair Lewis, and jazz guitarist Michael Neely Bryan.
Other favorites from past eras that I wholeheartedly recommend include Marjorie Morningstar by Herman Wouk, The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, and The Glimpses of the Moon by Edith Wharton.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, from literary fiction to buzzy new releases, you always have your finger on the pulse of what’s worth reading next. What does your process for picking your next read look like?
I’m always on the lookout for something exciting to read. And while I’m generally a very organized person, I have absolutely no system for choosing books—I like to think they find me when the timing’s right.
I once tried adding every physical book I own to my “Want to Read” list on Goodreads and immediately got overwhelmed. Some books I buy and read the same day; others are more like very chic decor.
For new releases, I love Book of the Month—I can always count on their picks to give me something compelling to dive into. I’ve already mentioned how much I love pulling from the New York Novels and McNally Editions sections at McNally Jackson, and when I’m there, I always chat with the staff about what I’ve loved and take their recs for what to read next.
I’ll read anything by Elin Hilderbrand, Emma Straub, Ann Patchett, Jessica Knoll, Carola Lovering, or Dolly Alderton. I also follow all my favorite authors on social media and religiously read whatever they recommend.
And finally, how would you spend a dream Sunday in SoHo and/or West Village?
My dream Sunday starts with a long, leisurely walk through SoHo with my dog, Cher. I love wandering the cobblestone streets before the crowds roll in, peeking into boutique windows and soaking up the quiet charm of the neighborhood.
Next up: an ABS ARMS ASS Reformer class at New York Pilates’ West Village studio—ideally with Luisa. After that, I swing home to grab Cher and we stroll through Washington Square Park en route to L'Appartement 4F for a perfect pain au chocolat.
From there, we wander back toward SoHo, popping into McNally Jackson and anywhere else that catches our eye, until we make our way to Frenchette in Tribeca for brunch. Brunch at Frenchette is everything—there’s always at least one order of the pancakes on our table.
Post-brunch, we head to the Lower East Side to browse some of my favorite vintage spots: Heart & Lou’s, Pilgrim New York, Desert Vintage, and Ending Soon.
Dinner is at Cecchi’s, where the stuffed mushrooms and the San Gennaro in a Blanket are non-negotiable. And to end the night on a sweet note, we’re off to Old Fashion Café for a nightcap and the best tiramisu in the city.
Local Business Love: New York Pilates
We couldn’t wrap this up without sending a little love to our latest obsession—New York Pilates, specifically the West Village location (because, obviously). Whether it’s a misty Monday or a sunny Saturday, you’ll find one of us lengthening and strengthening in their signature ABS ARMS ASS Reformer class. With instructors like Luisa, Lucy, Summer, and Sharona keeping us aligned and inspired, it’s become our favorite kind of self-care. Trust us—your core (and your mood) will thank you.
What We’re Reading and Loving This Month
Last but not least, we’ll close each monthly letter to you with a recap of the books our members are reading that go beyond our WVBC picks. What are you currently reading? We’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Laura’s Corner
Connect with Laura on Goodreads and Instagram
Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver is a modern retelling of Charles Dickens's David Copperfield set in Appalachia during the 1990s opioid crisis. This is one that has stuck with me for weeks after finishing. I’ve had this on my list for over a year, recommended by our own Caylee Ashwell as her favorite book of all time. I loved it.
Rent Boy by Gary Indiana is another McNally Edition, I bought this to gift to my friend for his birthday because I loved the cover and the premise, “Blinded by love for his fellow rent boy, Chip—as gorgeous as he is reckless—Danny is about to learn that there’s more than one way to turn your body into cash, and that cynicism is no defense when the real scalpels come out. A gimlet-eyed crime novel with an inventively filthy mind, Rent Boy is Gary Indiana at his most outrageous—and his best.” This book is a deranged stream of consciousness and I’m not sure I’d recommend it, only because I’m still having nightmares about the ending.
Commonwealth by Ann Patchett traces the ripple effects of a single act—an impulsive kiss at a christening—that ultimately redefines the lives of two families. Patchett explores themes of family, memory, and the complex truths that bind and break us. The story unfolds over five decades, offering a rich, nonlinear narrative that mirrors the fragmented nature of blended families. Patchett’s characters are vividly drawn, flawed, and achingly real, especially Franny, whose life becomes the anchor of the novel. I love the way Patchett writes about complicated family dynamics. The character development kept me engaged until the very end.
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune is a heartfelt romance that delves into themes of self-discovery, second chances, and the magic of summer. If you’ve read Every Summer After, this is Charlie’s long-awaited love story, offering a perfect escape into a summer of rediscovery.
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald celebrated its 100th anniversary this year. I love that the novel was initially unsuccessful and has since become a timeless classic. I remember feeling so literary when I picked this up in college for the first time, only after seeing the Baz Luhrmann adaptation. I highly recommend reading or rereading, it’s just as fabulous as I remembered.
Emily Dickinson Face to Face by Martha Dickinson Bianchi is the cutest collection of stories written by Emily Dickinson’s niece, Martha. Martha offers a rare and intimate glimpse into the private life of one of America’s most famous literary figures. She shares personal memories, family letters, and unpublished poems, painting a portrait of Aunt Emily not as a reclusive myth, but as a witty, passionate, and deeply human woman. I thought it was fitting to read this while I stayed at my aunt’s house over Memorial Day weekend.
Laura and Kayla’s Crossover Corner
The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand is deliciously engaging— blending romance, food, and personal growth against the picturesque backdrop of Nantucket. Elin Hilderbrand tells the story of Adrienne Dealey, a woman in search of stability who lands a job at an upscale restaurant run by the enigmatic Thatcher Smith. This novel is loosely based on one of the restaurants we’ll be dining at on Jenna’s bachelorette trip next weekend!
I Regret Almost Everything by Keith McNally is an unfiltered memoir that’s as biting as it is introspective. Known for iconic restaurants like Balthazar, McNally chronicles his life with wit, cynicism, and unexpected vulnerability. The memoir isn’t a glossy retelling of success; instead, it reads like a confessional, filled with regrets, personal failures, and reflections on love, ambition, and identity.
Kayla’s Corner
Connect with Kayla on Goodreads, Instagram, and subscribe to her Substack!
Set Piece by Lana Schwartz was the latest 831 Stories novella to be released and I’ve loved incorporating these zippier, shorter romance reads into my rotation. This one was about a film production designer who finds herself on set with an actor she happened to hook up with at a bar (no like, literally on the bar in the first few pages of the book…HOT) five years prior. What ensues is about CJ and Jack figuring out if what’s still coursing between them all this time later runs deeper than surface-level chemistry.
The Blue Book: A Must-See, Can’t-Miss, Won’t-Forget Guide to Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand felt like an all-too-necessary purchase from Mitchell’s Book Corner (an independent bookstore on Nantucket) ahead of our trip for Jenna Rice’s bachelorette next weekend! We adore our girl Elin and nothing could make more sense than her compiling her recommendations into a printed guide. What makes it even more fun is that when she talks about a restaurant or point of interest on the island that was referenced in one of her novels, there’s a blurb from that particular book. Such a full circle read!
Jenna’s Corner
Connect with Jenna on Goodreads and Instagram
This Is A Lover Story by Jessica Soffer isn’t exactly what the title might entail. Yes, it’s a love story— but an untraditional one that underscores the complexities of marriage and motherhood. The story is told through vignettes of Jane (who is dying) and her husband Abe’s life together, as well as through the lens of their son Max. Quite frankly, this book isn’t for everyone. The writing style took some getting used to, and I didn’t love the beginning, but once I got into a rhythm, every chapter became more thought-provoking than the next. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that it’s set in New York City with highly immersive descriptions of Central Park.
loved every word!!!!
Miss you deeply, Laura!!!