Bethany Joy Lenz Reveals Six Favorite Books, From Moscow Gentleman to Quantum Physics

Actress Bethany Joy Lenz, known for her role in "One Tree Hill," has shared her list of six favorite books, showcasing a diverse range of genres and themes. Lenz, who also recently released her novel "The Betrayal of Cora Wexford," described her ideal reading environment as a cozy spot on the couch with her dogs, preferably on a rainy day.

"Neurodivergents of the world may know this superpower of reading anywhere," Lenz told Page Six. "Many times it can feel easy to drown out any large noises and hyper focus on reading or writing, but my favorite spot to read is on the couch."

Her literary tastes span fiction, particularly murder mysteries, theology, memoirs, and cookbooks. Lenz noted that selecting just six titles was a challenge, but the following made her immediate list:

"A Gentleman in Moscow" by Amor Towles

![The book cover of "A Gentleman in Moscow" by Amor Towles.]( "The book cover of "A Gentleman in Moscow" by Amor Towles, featuring a man in a hat looking out a balcony window.")

Lenz was drawn to this novel after watching its television adaptation, seeking to further immerse herself in its world. The book follows a Russian aristocrat confined to a hotel for decades, witnessing societal changes from the early 20th century through the communist era. Lenz praised its exceptional prose and immersive details.

"The Little Book" by Selden Edwards

![Book cover of "The Little Book" by Selden Edwards.]( "Book cover of "The Little Book" by Selden Edwards featuring an illustration of a man walking down a crowded street with a suitcase.")

Describing herself as a fan of time-travel stories, Lenz highlighted this debut novel about a man who inexplicably travels back in time to 1988 Vienna. She recommended it as a "fabulous Autumn and Winter read."

"The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides

![Book cover for "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides.]( "Book cover for "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides, featuring a distressed image of a woman's face with a tear across her mouth.")

Lenz called this thriller a "masterclass in suspense and craft." She recalled listening to the audiobook during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding it so captivating that she would pause mid-action to absorb the narrative.

"Three Weeks with My Brother" by Nicholas Sparks

This non-fiction work by Nicholas Sparks, co-authored with his brother Micah, recounts a trip the two took to various global destinations. Lenz praised its blend of travelogue with deeply personal and often humorous reflections on life experiences.

"We Are All the Same in the Dark" by Julia Heaberlin

![Book cover of "We Are All the Same in the Dark" by Julia Heaberlin.]( "Book cover of "We Are All the Same in the Dark" by Julia Heaberlin, featuring white text against a dark botanical background with purple thistles and yellow flowers.")

Lenz described this suspense novel as more than just a mystery, noting its examination of judgment and human behavior. She was particularly struck by its ability to provoke thought on profound life questions.

"Quantum Physics and Theology: An Unexpected Kinship" by John Polkinghorne

Lenz is currently reading this book, which explores the intersection of quantum physics and theology. She indicated that her interest in quantum physics has grown, and she finds this book a valuable starting point for understanding concepts of entanglement and universal design.