I’ve always enjoyed reading but recently had fallen out of practice. I was terrible about starting and not finishing books – only to pick up another book and quit reading. A month or so ago I decided to finish reading the books I had started and continue with the books on my wish list. One of my favorite things to do now that the weather is nice is to sit on the patio and read. I’ve also made it a habit to go to bed earlier and read before turning out the light. Here are a few books I have read lately.
Every Summer After, romantic fiction written by Carley Fortune
This is a fun summer read with a little bit of everything – friendship, romantic tension, and secrets from the past. Old friends are reunited after Sam’s mother dies and Percy returns to the lake to attend the funeral. It doesn’t take long to realize they still have feelings for one another. It’s one of those situations where you want the characters to say everything to “get it all out in the open”. Slowly, more details come out, but not without back-and-forth drama. I enjoyed this one!
Daisy Jones & the Six, historical fiction written by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I might be the only person on the planet who didn’t love this book. I didn’t hate it, but it wasn’t a favorite. It wasn’t until after I bought the book that I realized it is written in interview format. I love the 70s – the style, fashion & music, so that kept me interested. Basically, Daisy Jones dives into the party & music scene in LA at a very young age. She gets invited to join The Six for a single song and the rest is history. We are currently watching the series on Prime.
The Hotel Nantucket, romantic fiction written by Elin Hilderbrand
This is one of my favorite recent reads. The whole time I was reading this book I could not help but think of White Lotus. Lots of characters in this one and Elin Hilderbrand does an excellent job of developing each character. A London billionaire purchases an abandoned building, The Hotel Nantucket, and restored it. The decor alone had me hooked! Lots of drama and emotional tension in this one.
The Wife Between Us, a thriller fiction written by Greer Hendricks
This thriller is told from the perspectives of both the ex-wife and the new fiance. The ex-wife finds herself broke with a drinking problem after the divorce. She becomes obsessed with the fiancee who is consumed with wedding plans and can’t shake the feeling that someone is following her. Every time I felt like I had it all figured out, there was a new twist. It kept me guessing which I loved!
People We Meet on Vacation, a romantic fiction written by Emily Henry
This story is about two friends who each year would take a summer vacation together until the ill-fated trip ruined everything. Poppy finally convinced Alex to go on one more trip together where they get the chance to make everything right.
Educated, a memoir written by Tara Westover
This memoir details the life of Tara, the daughter of survivalists in the Idaho mountains. The violence and abuse made this book difficult to read, but I also could not put it down. It’s about family loyalty, neglect, and one woman’s inner strength to overcome her traumatic upbringing. A must-read.
It Starts With Us, romantic fiction written by Colleen Hoover
This book is the sequel to It Ends With Us. Lily tries to reconnect with Atlas while dealing with her jealous ex-husband. The whole time I was reading this one I felt like something was about to happen and never did. The ending left me feeling like I wanted something more dramatic. Maybe it’s just me?
Book Lovers, romantic fiction by Emily Henry
Another cute one by Emily Henry. Two sisters spend the summer in Sunshine Falls, NC. Libby, the literary agent meets several men, one of which is Charlie, an editor from NYC. The banter and chemistry are hard to rival and the characters are all so real. Even though, predictable at times, this book still managed to surprise me at the end.
Currently Reading
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave. It’s currently streaming on Atv so I’m trying to finish the book so that I can watch the series. Only a few chapters left and it’s good!
I have read most of your list. Ordered Bunny Melon , she fascinates me.Educated was an amazing book. Loved The last thing he told me , apple. Better than the book. That rarely happens. Colleen Hoover is overrated in my humble opinion.
Glad you’re back on the book wagon. Its my everything! Therapist etc.😊
Hi Karen. I totally get it about therapy! I sometimes wish there was more time in the day for reading. Thanks so much for commenting!
Ps I love two long time writers , beachy family stories. Barbara delinsky and , Nancy Thayer
Compelling, well written books both of them.
Thank you for this!