It’s here!! It’s my JULY BOOK REVIEW!
Woohoo!!!!!!!!!
For all of you non-readers out there, I know you’re all…
…zzzzzzzz right now at the thought of a bunch of books (you should binge watch Grey’s Anatomy then!!). But for all of you readers? You’re like this right now…
…eeeeeeeeeeeeeks!
That is EXACTLY how I feel!
So, in June, I declared it the BEST BOOK REVIEW of the year so far which means, July has a lot to live up to. After my June review (where I read SO MANY great books!), I went through your comments (over 250!) and wrote down suggestions from them on a sticky note to read in July. So many of the books in my lineup today came from your comments. Now, I read some fantastic books this month, but I also read two that fell short for me. So, we’ll see if you agree or not.
But guess what?
I’m going to do something different today…today, I’m going to give you the names of FOUR books that I will be reading in August and then we can all chat about those books during my AUGUST BOOK REVIEW.
I typically don’t tell you what I’m going to read in advance because…I don’t know what I’m going to read (I get my suggestions many times from the comments here!), but I had enough suggestions in June to make my list extra big, so at the end of today’s post, I’ll tell you what I’m going to read and if you want, you can read along with me and then we can discuss next month. Sound like a plan?
First though…my JULY BOOK REVIEW.
Six books.
Some, I loved.
Some, left me wanting more.
Ready, set…
…SUMMER RENTAL by Mary Kay Andrews.
I don’t know why I forget to read books by Andrews because I always like them! You ladies suggested this one to me and it was the PERFECT summer read! It’s light, it’s easy, it’s about summer (duh!), it’s just feel good chick lit that of course, I’m obsessed with. This novel is about four women who share a summer house together. All four are escaping some realities of life (marriage problems, job problems, etc.), and they come together one August to share a house and well, they sort some things out. I found this book charming. It makes me want to read more Andrews books this fall. Looking for something fun to read? This is it!
If you’ve read my book reviews for any length of time then you know Beatriz Williams and I have a complicated relationship. I either LOVE her books or don’t like them at all. It’s so darn weird how it works like that. I think I’ve read 5 or 6 of them and two of them were in my top three for the year. Did you read that…FOR THE YEAR! A Hundred Summers and The Secret Life of Violet Grant were so good that I put them in the top three in 2016 and 2017 (out of over 60 books read each year!). However, I’ve read a few other Williams books that I just flat out didn’t like (yawn, boring, not interested in them at all). So you see? Complicated.
Her newest novel, THE SUMMER WIVES, came out this month, and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Let me tell you, friends, this one scored in the top tier of books I’ve read this year. I really loved it! Now, I don’t know if it’s “top three for the year” good, but it is definitely “I need to recommend it to my friends because I thoroughly enjoyed it” good.
This novel is about several generations of women living on Long Island and how their lives all intersect and connect. In this fictitious tale, each chapter flips back and forth between each woman and her story and then by the end, you see how they’re all woven together. I wouldn’t call Williams’ books “chick lit”. They’re not light, frivolous, beach reads per se…they’re just really good pieces of literature (although, you know how much I love those light reads!). For those of you who like it when I put a rating, I might caution that this book leans a little rated R, so buyer beware. I just really loved this one. This one reminded me of why I love Beatriz Williams so much…most of the time 😉 .
Soooooo…Emily Giffin’s newest book, ALL WE EVER WANTED let me down.
Anyone else???
I love Giffin novels SO DARN MUCH! Something Borrowed and Something Blue are two of my FAVES, but this one just fell short for me. First, I do believe every other Giffin book that I’ve read has been a relationship/love story kind of book, so I was assuming this would be the same…then, about halfway through, when I realized, okay, no romance here, I was disappointed with the overall outcome of the book. I didn’t really think justice was served in the end, and it left me feeling kind of blah. I wanted some vindication for our main character, but instead, I just felt like it was incomplete. Am I crazy here? I did not enjoy this one. I would also say, for those of you who still want to read it after this glowing recommendation (ha!), that this one is probably rated R too.
I did though, enjoy this one! I saved SUMMER HOUSE to read in Nantucket because it’s set there! This is quintessential summer reading right here…chick lit at its very best! A novel about a family getting together one summer on Nantucket to hash out some details about their family’s land and future. There is a little drama, a little romance, yummy food references, and a lot of Nantucket (Thayer’s favorite “character”!). This is just an easy beach read, poolside read, airplane read, just because read. I loved every single page.
THE GREAT ALONE was the number one recommended book last month and friends, you nailed it. I loved this book so much! It was my favorite Hannah book to date!
This novel is about one family’s journey as they move from the lower 48 to Alaska in the 70s. This is not chick lit. This book is a powerful piece of literature that for sure has me thinking top three for the year. Men and women alike will love this story about their struggles, their triumphs, their sacrifices, their love for community and so much more. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time I read it. I had no idea how it would end (the story goes decades forward as you read) or how beautifully it would capture the people of Alaska. This one is a must read for sure! I cannot say enough great things about this novel. As soon as I put it down, I was sad it was over. Read it, friends!
Oh man. I was disappointed by THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO too.
Boo.
Okay, here’s the thing…I think I approached the book with expectations that were just too darn high. Last year, my VERY FAVORITE BOOK OF THE YEAR, was a Taylor Jenkins Reid book. Of the whole year. Out of 62…I picked her One True Loves as my favorite. So, the bar was probably set a little to high this time around. I liked the idea of this book, but honestly, I was turned off by the main character from start to finish. This novel is about an actress, who in her older years, has decided a biography should be written about her life and her seven husbands. Cute premise, but she wasn’t super lovable at all. I did enjoy many of other characters (Celia and Harry for sure!), but she even makes a point several times as she’s having this writer compile her biography that she isn’t a nice person. I really couldn’t find many things about her that I liked, and the characters I did like…well, their tragic demises made me so sad (and were they really necessary???). Also, Monique, the writer who is capturing Evelyn’s story…well, I thought her part in the book could have been elaborated on even more. Sigh. This is not the way I wanted to end my month…but it is what it is. This one is rated R as well, so if you’re thinking you might want to give it a go, just a heads up. In my opinion, read One True Loves instead.
Six books for July! Funny enough, three of the six have the word “summer” in the title. Needless to say, this is a good “summer” list for you.
Now tell me…what are your thoughts? I love, love, love going through the comments and reading your thoughts, opinions and recommendations! I also want to say before we move on to my August books that I have people recommend that I read Francine Rivers’ Redeeming Love every.single.month, and friends, I read it years ago and yes, I loved it! You should all read that one too!
So, what are we going to read in August? How about these…
…now, I typically don’t tell you what I’m reading next for several reasons. First, I don’t know. Ha! I usually get my recommendations from the comments on this post, so I can’t predict what I’m going to read until after you all comment. An second, my mood shifts, I get inspired, I get bored, I just randomly pick up something. But this next month, let’s try and read these four together so we can discuss after the August Book Review. Sound like fun? Let’s see!
To see the complete list of books I read in 2016 (all 62 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2017 (all 62 of them), click here.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Emily Giffin is one of my all-time favourite writers too! Sad to read that her book didn’t really match up to her previous ones. I’ll still be giving it a go, though! 🙂
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Sarah says
Great line-up for August – will you do a link-up so that we can all discuss & review them together? x
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t think I”m going to make it a link up, but if you blog about these books, put your link in the comments!!
Elspeth Mizner says
Great suggestions! I’ve beeb reading a lot this summer and love to add new books to my list
Maregaret says
I look forward to read along with you!
Erika Slaughter says
Wahoo!!! After this post, I’m looking all Madeley pic #2!!!
Lynn says
Eleanor Oliphant ……you are going to LOVE her!!!!! What a brilliant quirky book. I read this on my holidays and passed it on to my 16 year old daughter to read who loved it too. Reese Witherspoon has bought the rights to the book to make it into a movie, I cant wait!!!! Looking forward to hearing what you think of this book x
Becky says
Agreed!
Kassy says
I’m reading Eleanor right now and I think I’m in the minority because I’m just not into it.
Lauren Hufford says
I loved Summer Wives too! I have read #1 and #2 on your list for August and am excited to read the other two. If you haven’t read How To Walk Away by Katherine Center, it is one of my favorites I have read this summer!
Rayne Osborn says
I second How to Walk Away, loved it! It kind of reminded me of Jojo Moyes books where you fall in love with the characters.
Katie says
Great list! I loved Emily Giffin’s new book because it really made me think about the so many things in society today and the consequences of social media and the role status and money can play. But I can totally see where if you thought it was a romancen you would be disappointed. However there is a really sweet friendship that forms. Just finished Elin Hilderbrand’s new book and I think you will love this one! Murder/romance mystery!
Mix and Match Mama says
I needed more vindication at the end. I still feel bad for our main girl. I might need to let go of my grudge…after all, it’s fiction. 😉
Amy says
I agree with your review on this book. I read it last week and was so disappointed! Kind of preachy and dealt with so many difficult issues – not the vacation read I was hoping for. On the other hand, Eleanor Oliphant is one of the best books I have read this year – I laughed out loud and also felt truly connected to the relationships in that book! So quirky and fun to read, even though it also deals with some serious issues. On your recommendation I also read My Year in Oxford and adored it! Thanks for all the suggestions!
Melanie says
I really liked this book but I wanted more vindication for our main character too. I think she was trying to show that unfortunately this type of thing does happen in real ?
Lindsay says
I just finished Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine last week! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts on it!
Alexis says
How to Walk Away is the only book I loved as much as My Oxford Year so far this year. It’s easily going to be top three for me. SO good!!! Can’t recommend it enough.
Loved Slightly South of Simple and it’s sequel. Those books are wonderful…chick lit but with depth. Love them!!
I actually loved Emily Giffin’s newest. So relevant and real and made me think a lot. She lives really close to me and I teach at a private school so maybe I could relate/understand more..? I just thought it was very realistic and deep and parents of high schoolers should read it. That’s just my thoughts though! Definitely different from her typical books for sure.
Mix and Match Mama says
I loved the message, but I didn’t think our main character was vindicated in the end. I kind of thought he got away with what he did…which stinks (because that’s probably true most of the time).
Alexis says
So very unfortunately true!! I agree with all of that.
Eileen McCullough says
How to Walk Away and My Oxford Year are in my top 3 of the year. Loved them!!!! I agree about Emily Giffin’s newest – I loved that it was so relevant.
Kellie says
Reading How to Walk Away now and I am loving it!
Lindsay F. says
i agree with you that All We Ever Wanted didn’t really wrap up they way I expected or wanted it to but I actually liked the book. I feel like the story line is very relatable to what happens in today’s day and age. I loved the Mom but wanted to smack the dad. I loved Tom too. Like I said, I wish there would have been more of an ending but maybe she left it that way because she’s going to tie these characters into her next book? Let’s hope!!
Amy Heinl says
I just read That Month in Tuscany by Inglath Cooper last night. I ared it at 6 and couldn’t put it down. First time reading anything by this author and it was a slam dunk. Hooked you right from the beginning and kept ou there through the entire book. I finished it at 10 and almost wanted to ad it again. Highly recommend this. On my shelf for August are Between You and Me by Susan Wiggs, High Tide Club by Mary Kay Andrews and Cottage by the Sea by Debbie Macomber. Love your book reviews
Lindsay says
Oh my gosh, I tried to read That Month in Tuscany, but I could NOT get in to it! I only read about half and I just had to stop! I didn’t care for it at all, and I was so disappointed because it sounded so good!
Stacey says
I second That Month In Tuscany….great book!
I also recommend Slightly South Of Simple by Kristy Woodson Harvey.
Rebecca Rooney says
I also read All We Ever Wanted but I loved it! I definitely agree with what you said about the ending though, I was expecting a little more. I read When Life Gives You Lululemons a few weeks ago, I really liked it. So excited to read the other books you’ll be doing next month!
Karah Stracener says
I always love your book reviews! I was hoping Emiy Giffins new book was going to be a great read but you have me thinking I’ll put it off. I need to pick up some Nancy Thayer books, I had forgotten how much I love her books.
Becky says
I also happened to read ‘The Great Alone’ this Summer while my husband was hospitalized following surgery. Loved it!!! Our nephew is a doctor in the Alaskan outback area so I thought it was fascinating since I imagine he has shared some of those experiences.
Rosa Dunn says
Love Mary Kay Andrews, The Weekenders is probably my favorite of hers! High Tides Club is good too.
Eileen McCullough says
The Great Alone is my favorite book so far this year. Just fantastic!!!! I just finished How To Walk Away by Katherine Center. Great book! Can’t wait to read along in August.
Robin Firestone says
I was also some what disappointed in All We Ever Wanted – just kept thinking – it’s going to get better.
Alexis deZayas says
I’m reading Girl Wash Your Face right now (finally!) and loving it! I’m going to see her documentary in theaters this week!!
Dalaina says
WHAAAAAAAT? There’s an upcoming documentary? Starts googling in 3….2….1 🙂
Taylor says
I can’t wait to read your opinion on Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine. I attempted to read it several months ago and could not finish it!!! I got about half way through and was so bored that I made the decision to stop reading it. Now, I seem to be in the minority but I have found other people who have felt the same way so I will definitely be looking forward to reading your thoughts.
As far as book recommendations, I am reading Mary Kay Andrews new book The High Tide Club right now and I’m giving it three starts. It’s not my favorite book by her but it’s still keeping me interested.
I do have a GREAT thriller recommendation, though. I read The Banker’s Wife this month and wow, I think it will go in my top thrillers that I’ve read thus far. I loved the two main characters and I liked that I never knew who the “bad versus good guys” were until the very end. I DEFINITELY recommend it!
Melanie says
I felt the same way about Eleanor Oliphant! I made myself read it all, but I didn’t enjoy it at all. We do.seem to be the minority! Everyone thinks I’m crazy.
Debbie W says
My first introduction to Mary Kay Andrews was Hissyfit. Took it on my summer vacation to Thailand and could not put it down. It left me looking for more books by Andrews at the airport! I just got Summer Rental, so glad you enjoyed it. Can’t wait to dive in!
Mix and Match Mama says
That title has me laughing! I need to read it!
Mary Anne Duke says
I second Hissyfit….It was my first introduction to Mary Kay Andrews as well. Just a fun read.
Jenna says
I’ve read you for years and I usually enjoy your blog posts so thank you for writing. I’ve also heard you say you don’t post negative comments but this is truly a head scratcher question for me: why the rankings? I love books and I love book clubs. And I super love posts with recommendations on what to read next. Why the heavy emphasis on “top three” or “my top of the year”? It’s a turn off for me. Books are a joy, not a competition or ranking – especially from someone that’s not a publisher, editor, journalist….like, sorry but who cares if it was your top of the year?
Mix and Match Mama says
Because it’s fun? I love thinking all year about which books are my favorite and which one will be my fave for the whole year. You should read one of my end of year recaps. I mention more than just the top three…I mention others that I love for other reasons too. Don’t over think it (it’s not me looking down on the other books I’ve read)…it’s just fun for me. Happy Monday!
Barbara Parnell says
Exactly. It’s fun…one need not be a writer,editor of journalist to dislike,enjoy it share a book. ?
Barbara Parnell says
That should say ” enjoy OR share a book. “
Robin says
I’m so glad you rank them–I think it’s a natural thing to do. I also appreciate when you let us know if it leans towards R rating, since I prefer not to read that type of book. Thanks so much for all your hard work in putting this monthly post together.
AngieN says
I appreciate the rankings because quite frankly, you read a TON of books! I read a good bit, too, plus there are lots of recommendations here, so I want to know which ones are the best and which ones I shouldn’t waste my time on. Thank you!
Leslie says
I love that you “rank” the books. I can’t get through quite as many books as you do and it’s super helpful to start with your top picks and then work through your other favs. Also, completely agree with you on Emily Giffin’s latest. It felt like she got tired of writing the story. Love her stuff and actually really liked this book until it seemed to end abruptly. Anyway, thanks so much for your reviews and top picks…don’t stop! : )
Cassie says
I love the rankings at the end of the year. I don’t read as much as you do, so the rankings give me solid recommendations!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
The Great Alone has been on my list for a few months and now I really want to pick it up. I liked A Hundred Summers too so I will add that Beatriz Williams one as well. Always love getting recommendations on here!!
xo
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Jessica says
I loved Emily Giffin’s book. One of her best yet in my opinion albeit different than her previous stories. She’s said in interviews that her books have grown with her – dating, marriage, babies, kids, and now a look at teens, social media and entitlement since her kids are getting to be that age. I loved it and recommend it! I was puzzled about your comment re: missing a love story. I The love between a parent and a child doesn’t qualify as a love story? Maybe you meant romance?
Mix and Match Mama says
I meant romance…it just wasn’t what I expected from Giffin. And I’m still bummed about the way it ended.
Liz Yu says
Given your travels in Ireland, you might love some Marian Keyes. Rachel’s Holiday is set in Dublin and County Wicklow. It’s about a serious topic, addiction recovery, but the main character is funny and loveable. Rachel is one of five sisters and Keyes has a series of books on all of them … Watermelon and Anybody Out There are also great reads. My other favorite from her is This Charming Man. It follows four women who have been abused by the same politician and find healing, and it manages to be funny and heartwarming. This one is set mainly in Dublin and County Clare. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve read her books over and over again.
Allena says
I love Marian Keyes! I haven’t read anything by her in years but loved everything I read. Last Chance Saloon and Sushi For Beginners were my favorites!!
Erin | Chasing Sweet and Simple says
I read All We Ever Wanted this month too and while I was reading it thought it was going to be one of my favorite books this year-I couldn’t put it down. And then I got to the ending and wanted to throw it out the window 🙁 I didn’t like it at all…..major let down!
Sara M Alexander says
I’m currently reading Two Steps Forward by Graene Simsion and Anne Buist. It’s interesting so far, it’s about two strangers who are treking the Chemin and their lives intersect.
I bought Less last week but ended up exchanging it for Two Steps Forward.
Narci Dreffs says
Your book review posts are always my favorite!! I just love your recommendations!
Sally Hepworth says
I just finished an advanced copy of Liane Moriarty’s new book, Nine Perfect Strangers, and it was HER BEST YET. Definitely add it to your list. I think it is out in September. And I love the idea of picking your book in advance. Will we be seeing a #mixandmatchmamabookclub ? I’d join x
Kim says
We need a new Sally Hepworth novel! I have read and loved all of them thus far. Keep them coming please!
Mix and Match Mama says
Amen to that!!
Sally Hepworth says
Oh aren’t you lovely? I’ll definitely keep them coming 🙂
Annaliza says
Eeek! I thought that was you that commented above. Total fan girl!
Lisa says
oh yay! a book club—ish!! i’m going to at least pick one and read along with you!
Emily says
I’m a huge Emily fan. But her last book disappointed me too. I love “Where we belong” by Emily if you haven’t read it. I think I’ll definitely check this book out but maybe wait.
Abby says
I kept reading all we ever wanted hoping it would redeem itself! It was not close to all the other Emily Giffin books that I loved so much. Can’t wait to read along with your August books!
Dustie Day says
I 100% agree on the ending of the Giffin book. It was surely a different book than what she normally writes but I couldn’t put it down and then was disappointed too.
Cassi says
I loved The Great Alone. I just finished The Refugee last night, it was great too!
TG says
I did not like All We Ever Wanted, for various reasons. I think I mentioned that in the comments section of last months review (I read it all in the first one to two days after it came out)? I’m soooo surprised it came so highly recommended to you! Recent reads you should jot down, in order: When Breathe Becomes Air (must read), The Light We Lost, The Blue Bistro, The Marriage Lie.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve read the last three and COULD NOT agree more!! Clearly we like the same things, so I need to read the first one!
Karleigh says
When Breath Becomes Air is an awesome book. It truly makes you think and reflect on life. Another recommendation from me would be “The Road Back To You.” It’s about self discovery and the Enneagram (which I knew nothing about prior to reading). I have really enjoyed it, and given your strong religious beliefs, I think you will too! I’m also curious to see what “number” you resonate with 🙂
Carly says
I take back my previous comment on this. Like a psycho I went back and found your The Light We Lost review and completely agree! 🙂
Lauren says
Yes, When Breath Becomes Air is a wonderful book. I was sobbing at the end, but I still think about it over a year later
Carly says
Wait, wait, I must have missed The Light We Lost in your book reviews somewhere along the way, but you liked it? I did not think that main character was likable AT ALL! I read it fast and was entertained, but she was so selfish! Maybe I’m crazy! Probably, I’m definitely crazy 😉
Megan says
I also love When Breath Becomes Air and recently read a memoir called The Bright Hour, in which the writer is also facing a terminal cancer diagnosis and was beautifully written. Recommend that one as well!
Beth Miller says
Oh my, so many thoughts. I LOVED Emily Giffin’s new book! Maybe it was because it was set in Nashville, and I’ve lived here my entire life. I didn’t love the lack of justice for the main character, but everything else I thought was great. I also loved The Seven Husbands! It was a bit scandalous, and it really kept me reading. Summer Wives was SO GOOD! I finished it last week. I’ve also read Lululemons AND Eleanor Oliphant! I also enjoyed both. Eleanor Oliphant will stay with you long after you finish reading. She’s quirky and so lovable. Hopefully you’ve read The Devil Wears Prada and Revenge Wears Prada before you start When Life Gives you Lululemons. It will help you understand the main character on a much deeper level. Can’t wait to hear how you like them!! I just finished Summer Breeze by Thayer and just love her books! I started Something in the Water last night, and I’m hooked!
Emily says
I’m curious what you will think of Eleanor oliphant. I wasn’t overly impressed with that book. I did just finish All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover and really liked it. I think you will too as it follows a story line you will relate to. I liked Emily Giffin’s book but agree the ending fell short. Do you ever read Jane Green books? I think you would love them.
Christal says
If you liked that book Summer Rental by Mary Kay Andrews then you will like Hissy Fit it is such a cute book–
Jane says
Yes! I agree with you and Debbie. Hissy Fit was the first MK Andrews book I read and I think it’s still my favorite.
Kaitlyn S says
I always love your book reviews! You should read Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult. It is a page turner but also leaves you with a message you will remember and think about after!
Katie A says
I agree! Small Great Things is similar to The Great Alone in the way that it makes you think and the writing styles that play out like a movie! Both are at the top for my favorites this year!
Maria Zandri says
I LOVED The Great Alone too! Such a great book. I have Eleanor Oliphant waiting to be read at home so I’m going to join you in that one for August!
Kelly Davis says
Yay!!! Monthly book review is my very favorite post each month! Here are a few books I have read lately:
I Have The Right To – Chessy Prout
Note To Self – Gayle King
Before I Fall – Lauren Oliver
Sisters First – Jenna Bush Hager
The Good Girl – Mary Kubica
House of Silence – Sarah Barthel
Robin says
Your book reviews are my favorite, thank you for sharing!
Sarah Shaneyfelt says
I love your book reviews! Always so refreshing! When Life Gives You Lululemons is on my list and so is the Hannah book!
MeetTheShaneyfelts
Tina says
Thanks for the B Williams review. Completely agree about her but loved Along the Infinite Sea (as well as your other 2 favorites) and major disappointments with some of her others. Can’t wait to read her new one next.
Loved Sound of Gravel too! How about Educated? In my opinion not as good as Sound of Gravel but overall a very good read.
Sheaffer Sims says
Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz.
Hahaha 🙂
Daniela says
I loved The Great Alone too! I recently read Educated a memoir by Tara Westover and White Crysanthemum. Neither are chick lit but both were excellent!
Michelle V. says
Have you read After I Do by Taylor Jenkins Reid?!? It’s one of my favorites! I now give it to new brides because it’s got such good points on marriage.
Barbara Parnell says
I am reading Summer House right now and I absolutely love it..can’t stop reading,but at the same time, don’t want it to end! Also simultaneously reading The Glass Castle,by Jeanette Walls, with my son for school…interesting book about how flighty parents are raising a family in a nomadic lifestyle, and it’s almost hard to believe it’s true. Next up for me is Elin ‘s The Rumor and then the latest from Debbie Macomber,which is always a quick,pleasant read! Have a great week!
Casey says
Loved Glass Castle!!
Pat Barrow says
You have to read Cocoa Beach by Beatriz Williams! It is so so so so good.
Diane Ingenito says
I completely agree with All We Ever Wanted, so disappointing. I kept waiting to get drawn in, but it never happened. I look forward to reading along with you in August! I read When Life Gives you Lululemons earlier this summer and really enjoyed it.
Laura says
I had the pleasure of meeting Beatriz Williams a few weeks ago on our her book tour for The Summer Wives. She was so delightful and down to earth; so friendly and nice. She also signed my book with a gold Sharpie! Absolutely love her!
Taylor says
Emily Giffin’s novel has such an important and empowering message – definitely her best book yet that touched on so many of today’s issues, especially for parents in the social media age of over-sharing.
Emily says
I just finished Emily Giffin’s new book this weekend and I was disappointed in the ending too. It felt abrupt, and certainly lacked justice (which maybe was the point?)… either way, it wasn’t what I expected and I needed more closure. It was the first book I read on my new kindle (prime day!) and I had not been paying attention to how far along in the book i was when it suddenly my said “epilogue”— I thought I had certainly missed some chapters somewhere! Ha!
Kristan King says
I am currently reading Bachelor Girl by Kim VanAlkemade and it is so good I barely want to put it down! Only about half way through so far but can’t wait to finish it. It is definitely rated R.
Brianna says
Completely agree about Seven Husbands. I loved the idea, but wasn’t crazy about the execution. I would recommend “Maybe in Another Life” by Taylor Jenkins Reid instead. In my opinion, it was on par with One True Loves, they’re two of my favorites!
Amanda Eaton says
Love your book reviews so much. I just finished The Husband Hour by Jamie Brenner and I think you would LOVE. Reads like Thayer but with a little more depth! xx
Jennifer Elsen says
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivera
Erin Port says
I want to read Crazy Rich Asians before the movie comes out 🙂
Christal says
You need to try the book Hissy Fit by Mary kay Andrews Its an awesome book!!!
MS says
Educated by Tara Westover is incredibly compelling and beautifully written.
Little Fires Everywhere Celeste Ng —great writing
Robin says
I agree! Both were excellent.
Savannah Tucker says
I love all of Mary Kay Andrews! Try and read one more in summer instead of fall, they’re all summery except her older stuff. She does have a Christmas novella!
Emily Giffins fell flat for me too. It was just no spice and so different.
I have loved the Hannah books I’ve read so I can’t wait to read The Great Alone.
Disney Chamberlain has a few that are a little easier than hannahs but still have that feel. The Stolen Marriage, The Secret Life of Ceecee Wilkes.
MEg says
Just finished “lululemons” and added the other suggestions. Others I’ve read and loved were The Storyteller and Small Great Things by Jodi Piccoult … made me enjoy reading her books again! I also loved Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale (my favorite of hers with The Great Alone coming in 2nd). If you liked The Great Alone, you might also enjoy The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey. Thanks for your reviews!!
Emily says
Yes! Storyteller and Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult – both are SO good! Highly recommend!
Amanda says
I’m a huge fan of Emily Giffin but I also felt let down by this book. I was expecting more and the end just kind of fell flat. It seemed like it was going one way (justice, at least in some sense) and then just kind of ended with “and he got off”. The epilogue was also pretty disappointing.
If you like easy reads, Beth Harbison books are a super light but enjoyable read. My all time favourite is “when in doubt, add butter”. I promise you’ll love it!
Carly says
Totally agree about Seven Husbands! Not my favorite!
I have the Giffin book on hold at the Library and I am #22 on the waiting list. It’s the longest hold list I’ve ever been on, I think. Her name definitely precedes her. I haven’t really read much from her so maybe it’ll help that I don’t know her usual style??
Last, if you’re looking for Sept choices, I recommend How To Walk Away! {It’ll go good with your Grey’s binge too ;). }
Casey says
Love MK Andrews!! Such good summer reads!!
Amanda says
Try Kristin Hannah’s Nightingale. After The Great Alone and this one, I can’t get enough of this author!
Mix and Match Mama says
I loved that one too!!
Kelly says
Add “Next Year in Havana” to your list for September! It was the July pick for Reese Witherspoon’s book club and it.was.fantastic!
Kristy Thurmer says
I love your book reviews. I read two from your June list this month 🙂 And amazingly I read the Great Alone. Its really stuck with me. One of those books I keep thinking about. Great choices!
Lauren says
I look forward to these book reviews every month! A couple of your August ones have been on my list so I’ll try to jump into those next! 🙂
tina says
if you enjoy light, comical murder mystery reads, try Ann George. They are older – the first one was Murder on a Girls’ Night Out. They are funny, quick, mystery reads.
Deanna Zehr says
I too thought that Emily Giffin’s latest was thrown together at the end and there was not a realistic conclusion. I also felt the same way about Seven Husbands. Both books just left me feeling yucky! You will enjoy the Lululemon book…and what a fantastic title! 🙂
Brooke says
I have read two “must read” books this summer! You should check out Lady Be Good by Amber Brock.. it carries a very Beatriz Williams vibe (which I love!). Based in the 50s bounces between NYC and Miami! The other book is “The Summer I Met Jack” by Michelle Gable. It’s an alternate (potentially true) look into Jack Kennedy’s life before getting married to Jackie O. The main character is a polish refugee. Super fun, interesting read!
Bethany says
Thank you SO MUCH for your book reviews! It’s probably my favorite post you do! That being said, I want to THANK YOU for the way you do your recommendations and I value your opinion and rankings. Please don’t let one Negative Nellie make you change this approach. Your opinions are usually spot on with mine, and I appreciate your honesty because it helps guide me to which ones I want to make a financial investment in, as well as an investment with my time. I too was disappointed with Giffin’s new novel. In addition to it being a slouchy ending, I’m a native of Nashville and feel like she really put a negative spin on our WONDERFUL city.
Rachel says
I’m definitely in the “Eeek” excited category – love your book reviews! I’m adding your August picks to my list, so we can all discuss next month :)! This past month I read Secrets in Summer by Nancy Thayer – it was a perfect beach read on our vacation. I also read A Certain Age by Beatriz Williams, I’ve loved everything I’ve read by her so far, she’s one of my favorite authors. And I finished the month with Girl Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis – loved it so much!
Alicia says
I love most all of Mary Kay Andrews’ books and her newest, The High Tide Club is no exception.i gave 5 stars on Goodreads to boththe Emily Giffin book and Taylor Jenkins Reid book so that’s funny.
Linzee says
I agree about All We Ever Wanted. Emily is my favorite author but I was disappointed here. It was like you were stringed along through the whole book then, bam, lose ends were tied up abruptly and I was unsatisfied. That said, I couldn’t put it down. I agree on the rated R part, too.
Andrea McAnally says
I read the Great Alone as well and LOVED it! If it isn’t already – make sure you add Winter Garden to your list!
Susanne says
That’s my absolute favorite Kristin Hannah book!
kristen cheney says
i did not enjoy the seven husbands of evelyn hugo either. it was a disappointment for sure. the great alone should arrive any day and i can’t wait to read it. i read eleanor olpiphant and really liked it. it was not what i expected and it was a delightful surprise. i am excited for the august books!
Jaime says
Appreciate your book reviews because I’m always looking for a good read! I really enjoyed The Great Alone and Eleanor Oliphant. If you haven’t read Educated yet, it’s a really good memoir.
Danielle says
I loved the great alone and couldn’t stop thinking about it after. I can’t remmeber if you’ve read “before we were yours” but that was the best book I read this year other than the great alone!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yesssss! Such a good one!!
opal says
John Meacham–The Soul of America and Madeleine Albright-Facism-A Warning are both phenomenal books by phenomenal historians and public figures. Very interesting points of view relating to current events!
Tiffany says
How many hours per night do you sleep? I feel like I don’t have enough time to keep my house clean, cook meals, do my Bible study, read, get 7 hours of sleep, AND binge watch Netflix. HOW do you do it?
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahahaha! Well, not all at once! My New Year’s Resolution was to sleep until 5, so for instance, last night, Smith had baseball practice until 8:15, so after the girls bathed, I read for about an hour and then again from 9 to 10:45. Then, I woke up at 5 this morning. I only watch Netflix when I’m doing something (laundry, unloading the dishwasher, putting makeup on, in the tub, etc). I always just watch it on my phone while I’m doing those chores (and oftentimes, I listen to it in the background while I work).
Lauren says
I read The Great Alone this month too and it was my favorite book of the year! Incredible story. So glad you enjoyed it too. Now I need to pick up Summer Wives!
Meg says
I couldn’t agree more with your review of The Great Alone- SO GOOD! After that one I picked up Hannah’s The Magic Hour. I could not put it down! Crazy good! Hannah is a master!
Annie says
I have to respectfully disagree about All We Ever Wanted. While not a romance, Giffin’s portrayal of families was excellent, and I appreciated the reality of social media in our culture. No, it’s not a fluffy summer romance, but it was well written and engrossing.
Susan says
Thank you for the R rating heads up. I’m a 60 year old Noni who loves to read but doesn’t love all that.
sydnee says
I’m looking forward to reading When Life Gives You Lululemons! I’ve linked my latest book review below. ?
Design by Sydnee | 4 Books I’ve Read Lately
emily @ a little bit of emily says
Just requested your next books from the library – super fun idea to share what you are reading!
Taylor says
I just read “I Will Carry You” by Angie Smith. Have Kleenex ready!!! This is a beautiful true story that I already know I am going to want to read again some day. Angie glorifies God, brings the gospel, and honors her daughter through each chapter!
Taylor says
Also, thank you for your monthly reviews! I always look forward to them. Secrets of a Charmed Life and The Identicals were books I read this past month per your recommendations. Loved them both!
Amber says
The Selections Series
The Gender Games Series
Delirium Trilogy
The Outliers Trilogy
The Two Family House- Lynda Cohen Loigman
Susan says
I didn’t love Emily Giffin’s book either. It somehow didn’t ring true. It raised pertinent issues, but the execution fell short for me. I enjoyed your recommendation of Castle of Water by Dane Huckelbridge from last month.
Elizabeth says
Have you read The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons? It’s the first book in am amazing trilogy. It is historical romance fiction starting with a young couple during the second world war. It is epic. I couldn’t put down.
Elizabeth says
You are going to love When Life Gives you Lululemons!! I didn’t want it to end. I just started reading Eleanor Oliphant! Can’t wait for next month :).
Ali says
Thanks to your earlier reviews, Beatriz Williams has become a favorite author of mine. A Hundred Summers and Along the Infinite Sea are two of my favorite books, but The Summer Wives didn’t do it for me. I was excited to see you had read it this month so I could see your thoughts! Maybe I need to give it another go. I felt the same way about Emily Giffin’s new book. On your recommendation from last month, i just finished My Oxford Year. OH MY! Now I know exactly “what other book” it was like. Grab the tissues, ladies! I’m currently reading My Dear Hamilton and I hope it’s as good as all the reviews suggest. 🙂
Lori says
I absolutely love your book reviews! I just finished My Oxford Year last night – so good & unexpectedly deep! I read Castle of Water before that (& then made my husband read it – he loved it just as much!) I just added a handful of these to my library hold list & the August ones, too!! Thank you for sharing all of your reads with us (& for being honest in your reviews!) <3
Stephanie says
I just read Eleanor Oliphant and When Life Gives You Lululemons and enjoyed both! Very different from each other. Eleanor took some time for me to get into, but it ended up being great! The Great Alone and All We Ever Wanted are on my holds list at my library! Thanks for doing these reviews.
CBubley says
I think the reason Emily Giffin’s All I Ever Wanted is so relative is because THAT aid what “justice” looks like for main characters in the world. Most people don’t see the type of justice you really hope they get or deserve. I thought the sensitivity to the topic and he real life outcome are what made it good. There wasn’t a happy ending because sadly that’s prevalent these days. While it wasn’t classic Griffin I love the risk and the voice she used to reach her large audience. <3
Amy says
Okay we’re definitely going to need an entire post dedicated to your thoughts on Grey’s Anatomy once you get all caught up! 😉 I started binging my freshman year of college and got caught up by the end of that school year! Now, I’m going into my senior year, and I just can’t quit it. I want to hear alllllll of your thoughts. 🙂
Joyce says
I highly reccomended The High Season by Judy Blundell. Great book and great summer read.
Keisha Dawson says
Excited to read some books with you this month. Three of those were already on my “to read” list. I’m almost done with Behind Her Eyes, and it’s so good. It’s been one that’s hard to put down!
Ciara Chase says
I 100% agree with you about All I Ever wanted! I have always loved her books so when you told me you pre ordered it… I did too! Such a let down! I wasn’t a fan of it at all! I was also reminded that I really want them to come out with the movie sequel to something borrowed!
Tiffaney says
Have you read “The Idea of You” By Robinne Lee? It’s a romance chick lit (rated R) I think you would enjoy it!
Julie says
I think I am the only person who did not enjoy the Great Alone. I have read and loved her other books. This one just felt too long and was so depressing to me. I will say it was well written and the ending was a pleasant surprise. Thanks for your reviews each month. I always look forward to them.
Kathy says
I stopped in the middle of Emily Giffin’s book The One and Only, and haven’t read her books since. I did not like how the main character fell in love with her best friend’s father, who was a father figure to her for her whole life, and vice versa. It just didn’t feel right with me.
Lorie says
Think you would enjoy Blue Christmas and Christmas Bliss, in that order…fun holiday books by Mary Kay Andrews. Love and look forward to your reviews each month! Thank you for sharing. I’ve gradually been reading more and more since reading your reviews. Also, I’ve recently discovered checking out eBooks from the Public Library and can’t even tell you how much money I’ve saved! Sometimes there is a wait, but many books (including Hildebrand and Thayer), are immediately available.
Courtney says
I actually really liked All We Ever Wanted. I was hoping for a romance, but it was good nonetheless. I read Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo a while back. I was like you. I didn’t find Evelyn likeable. The writing was amazing, but all in all I felt duped. I felt duped reading about a romance that I wasn’t prepared to read about. I loved a Harry though! I’d actually love to read a book based from his point of view. I read Small Great Things, Scrappy little nobody, The Kiss Quoient. I actually created an Instagram about the books I read! @whatcourtneyreads
Mix and Match Mama says
I loved Harry 🙂 .
Tracey says
Hope Heals by Katharine & Jay Wolf. I have had the privilege of hearing them speak and share their story twice. They have a beautiful (and incredibly difficult) testimony. You will be engaged and inspired by their writing. (And bonus, their story is going to be turned into a movie, too!)
Brooke says
LOVED the Great Alone and Summer Wives!! Right there with ya on All we ever we need…so disappointed. Can’t wait to pick up a couple of your August reads less Eleanor Oliphant is completely Fine. I tried reading that and wasn’t into it, I’ll pick it up again this month and see how it goes 🙂 I’ve heard so many good reviews about that book, so it could just be me! Cheers to more reading!!
Heather Cooper says
Three of your August reads are on my bedside table!! Woohoo I love that!! I finally read 100 summers….it was AMAZING! Can’t wait to read summer wives. I just read All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover….it was INCREDIBLE! Right up there with It Ends With Us!!! YOU MUST READ IT!!
Morie Smith says
I rushed over to see your thoughts on Emily Giffin’s and I hate that you didn’t like it! I agree– our main girl didn’t really get justice, but I think that might have been her point– that’s what is happening these days and we need to recognize that it’s not right and do something about it. I appreciate that it was very poignant and relevant to current events without being preachy. Love your reviews and I can’t wait to check out a few of these others!
Kim says
Hi Shay!! I have often thought you should begin your book reviews with I have read Redeeming Love now let’s talk about other books so I lol’d when I read that in the intro. I absolutely loved The Great Alone by Hannah and recommend Night Road by her if you haven’t read that one. I agree with you on All We Ever Wanted, I just wanted more from Nina and Tom’s connection and was left feeling let down. I do agree its a very relevant topic tho, unfortunately. I’m currently reading back to back Thayer books, so good! I will definitely be reading along with you in August! Happy reading!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Bahahahaha! Right? People love that book 🙂 .
Angelique at Four Points Mom says
The Great Alone is one of my favorite books this year – I’m so glad you read included it here. Also, I just finished The Sound of Gravel after last month’s recommendation and wow. That was some tough stuff! Can’t wait to add your August books to my list … love your book review posts! Thanks Shay!
http://www.FOURPOINTSMOM.com
Christal West Atkinson says
Recommendation: No Motive in Murdoch – it is based on true-crime events that took place in my hometown of Clifton, Texas in the mid-1980s. While the book was going to print (and unbeknownst to the authors), ProPublica Senior Reporter and New York Times Magazine contributor Pamela Colloff was developing a riveting series, “Blood Will Tell,” that explores what happened in Clifton decades ago. Those articles, plus the book are great reads.
https://www.jlbassbooks.com/readercorner/
Breanne Crawford says
All we ever wanted let me down too! I was really disappointed in the ending.
Scarlett Spangler says
My husband and I went on an Alaska cruise this summer… and I am now obsessed (seriously, obsessed) with Alaska, so I can’t wait to read The Great Alone! Loved the Summer Wives, and loved When Life Gives You Lululemons! Can’t wait to hear your thoughts on that one….
MEGAN says
I read All we ever wanted last week and could not get into it. Definitely not my favorite! I am now reading The woman in the window and it is soooooo good!
Emma says
I look forward to your book reviews every month! Thanks for posting!
Jackie says
Crazy Rich Asians – did you find it easy to read or did you struggle to get into it ? I am having a hard time…. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
I fell in love with it! I will say, I referred back to the family tree many times while reading all three books!
Missy says
I have read many books based on your reviews. Thank you for always sharing with us! Question for you, prior to switching to your Kindle, what did you do with all the books after reading? Share them with friends, donate, sell back or do you just have an awesome library of your own? 🙂 I’ve passed on a few to friends but still have a ton.
Mix and Match Mama says
I used to swap with friends and family all the time! In fact, my friends and I screenshot our Amazon carts and send them out so that people don’t buy the same books.
Gale Johnston says
Check out paperbackswap.com.
Meg says
My recent favorite that I think EVERYONE should read is This is How it Always Is by Laurie Frankel. I did NOT care for Eleanor Olyphant, so very curious to hear what you think! Lululemons has been on my list so I’ll join in and read that one with you next month 🙂
Julie says
I loved the great alone as well. Can’t wait to check out a few others you listed.
Dawn says
Thanks for sharing looks like I have some reading to do. I read Defending Jacob by William Landay several years ago and I still think about it sometimes. Definitely Not chiclit but worth the read.
Kim says
I just finished LuLuLemons last night – was reading it all last week on Cape Cod! A very adorable summer read. Thanks for always sharing . I read your reviews and plug most into my Good Reads account. 🙂
Rachelle says
If you loved The Great Alone, you must read Winter Garden, also by Kristin Hannah. So, so, good and powerful! It was so good that when I read The Great Alone after finishing it, The Great Alone was a total letdown (even though I still really enjoyed the book!) Winter Garden is one of my all time faves and I can’t stop recommending it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve read that one! I loved it too!!
Annie says
I LOVED All We Ever Wanted. And I liked the ending, because of how imperfectly it ended. I guess I felt that was the point? I think in this day and age, these situations with young people and social media are so new and complicated and messy that they can’t be resolved perfectly. I think I appreciated how realistic it felt, and I thought Emily Giffin raised some excellent questions. Looking forward to discussing this one with friends.
Maggie says
I am so surprised by your impression of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo! I LOVED this book and devoured it on our recent vacation. It was one of those stories that stayed with me, I find myself still thinking about it weeks later!
Dede says
Interested to see what you think about When Life Gives You Lululemons. I’m reading it now and not loving it. But sticking with it in hopes that it’ll improve.
Anne says
I loved All We Ever Wanted, and I did like the ending. I think I appreciated how everything was not tied up so perfectly. It was way more realistic. I think these situations with young people and social media are so new, messy, and complicated to our society that they can’t be resolved perfectly. I think Emily Giffin raised some excellent questions that I am looking forward to discussing with friends. I also think it was good that it was not resolved perfectly, because this is something that parents and kids need to confront. I found it a powerful read.
Kerri Soto says
Just finished a week on Cape Cod and Read When Life Gives you Lululemons and Luckiest Girl Alive. Lulu was a great fun read, Luckiest Girl alive was dark and tough on my mama heart. Thought it was cute that my 10 year old Daughter and her friend were like mom isn’t that the store you like! LOL
Chelsey says
I read The Great Alone this month too and it was definitely my favorite book of 2018 so far! I’m reading a Thayer book right now, Secrets in Summer and so far it’s super cute (I also have Heat Wave in my queue)! Put the one you read on my list as well as the MK Andrews one! The Lululemons book is on my ‘to read’ list so I will def be reading that in August! About Emily Giffin, I haven’t been a big fan of her books since the ‘Something Borrowed’ series so I haven’t been quick to get her new one but I plan on reading it eventually – I appreciate the honest review! I always look forward to this blog post every month thank you for sharing!
Lisa Klein says
I totally agree with you about All We Ever Wanted. I was so excited to read another Emily Giffin book, but it was really disappointing. I just finished When Live Gives You Lululemons and loved it!! Always love your recommendations!! Currently reading My Oxford Year and hosting my book club to chat about The Last Mrs. Parrish on Thursday!
Becky Carl says
Hi, I’m not sure if anyone else knows about this or if I’m behind with the times, lol! I was looking around on Kindle and found Prime Reading under the shopping category. You can check out free books and magazines to read under here! I read a really good free book called The Honeysuckle Girls last month and reading The Cavanaugh House now. So far they hold my attention to read all the way through which is saying a lot for me!! Check it out if you haven’t already! Thanks Shay
Sherrye says
Paradise and Perfect by Judith McNaught are my favorites! I will re-read them on occasion because I loved them so much!!
Kay says
Happy Monday! Here’s some recommendations: The Kiss Quotient, The Book of Essie, How to Walk Away, Then She Was Gone.
Debbie Hibbert says
I recently read That Month In Tuscany and couldn’t put it down!
Laurel says
I’m so excited for book club next month and will definitely commit to one or two books! Might be worth noting- when Life Gives You Lululemons is boom three in a trilogy, but don’t HAVE to ready Devil Wears Prada and Revenge Wears Prada first but it’s a little helpful 🙂
Grace says
I am with you on Emily Griffin’s latest book; you nailed it! I loved all her previous books, so she did have a lot to live up to, but All I Ever Wanted was rather “meh” and didn’t really pull me in at all. I kept waiting for the main plot to thicken on something to happen that never quite did. I just found it underwhelming.
Lindsey Sadler says
Can’t wait to read some of these. I just finished Ghosted by Rosie Walsh and it is so so good. I couldn’t put it down because I had to find out what happened. Also loved All Your Perfects by Colleen Hoover and it was another really powerful book on something a lot of people struggle with. Then I found Ginger Scott and I think she would be considered YA but Cry Baby was amazing. Also Driven by Eternity by John Bevere. It is life changing. Can’t wait to discuss this months books.
Jessie says
Ghosted by Rosie Walsh was one of the best books I’ve read so far this year! I just finished The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See and I really enjoyed it.
Angela Ellingson says
I so appreciate your honest reviews!! I need to get my read on. Love the idea of getting to read along with you!
Allena says
I can’t wait to try The Great Alone. The Nightingale is still my favorite Kristin Hannah book (I think I’ve read 5 so not all by far), so if this is better, I can’t wait! I’ll check out the August books and read along, sounds fun to ‘discuss’ together. I’ve been in a book club with some of my best friends for 7 years and it’s a highlight for me! I haven’t read the last few Emily Giffin books because I’ve seen so many mixed reviews, it’s hard to get excited about them, bummer too because I loved her first handful of books too. I liked 7 Husbands but didn’t love it like I LOVED everything else of TJR’s. It wasn’t disappointing like Truly, Madly, Guilty by Liane Moriarty (excited that Sally Hepworth said her next one is her best, yay), so I can still say I’m a huge TJR fan overall, ha.
Chelsea says
The last 3 books I read were all SO good so I’ll recommend them here: An American Marriage, Hillbilly Elegy and Educated.
Angela Wilbur says
I just finished reading Emily Giffin’s book too and I agree with you. I was bummed. I’ve read all her books and this one was just meh..glad I wasn’t alone.
Angela Wilbur says
Oh, and p.s The Summer I turned Pretty series is a must (you can find one book that has all 3 books combined) It’s a more on the teenage side (as the characters turn into adults) , but it is a must! Can’t wait until you read it.
Kelly Bonner says
I’ve recently discovered books by authors Mary Benton Frank & Susan Mallery. I read Same Beach Next Year by Frank & loved it. I’m currently reading The Friends We Keep by Mallery & really like it so far.
Carly says
Ahhh, I just started The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo yesterday and now I’m all distraught!!!! I actually like it so far?!?! I’ll just have to speed through it so I can get to the August list!
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
Evelyn Hugo–not my favorite. LOVED Summer Rental! Love all of her books. Really liked All We Ever Wanted as a drama but I was disappointed that it wasn’t another typical Emily Giffin novel! 🙁 And I think I texted you several months ago that I HATED Eleanor Oliphant although almost everyone else loved it. hahaha. So I can’t wait to see what you think. You’ll love Lululemons.
That Inspired Chick
Julianne says
I love Kristin Hannah! I feel like she’s most well known for “The Nightingale”, but if you haven’t already, check out some of her older books like “The Things We Do For Love,” “Winter Garden,” and “Firefly Lane.” Diane Chamberlain is another author I’ve come to love who has a similar style.
Devan says
I’ve read your blog for a few years now and this is the first time I have ever commented (on anyone’s blog for that matter!). I felt compelled to because I LOVE, LOVE, LOVED The Great Alone! It is definitely my favorite book that I have read this year. I missed the characters after I was finished and couldn’t even get myself to start a new book for a few weeks. Anyways, I am reading another book right now that is fascinating that I think you would like. It is called One Thousand White Women. Look it up! Thanks for all your book recommendations!
Krystin says
I was also really disappointed by the new Emily Giffin..seemed like Tom and Nina should have fallen in love and was just so sad they didn’t!!!!!! ?
Aimee says
I have 3 of these books. I’m going to try to read along. I’m so glad you are doing this. If I’m reading with a group, I tend to be more intentional with my reading, so I’m excited about this! (2 of these books have been sitting on my night stand, unread, for a while now 😉
Jami says
I just read a series you might like, Everything We Keep, Everything we Leave Behind, and Everything We Give. Without giving too much away it starts out with our main character at the funeral of her fiancé. He had been missing in Mexico and was just found dead, at the funeral she gets a tip that he’s alive. All three books are from a different character, I’m on the third book now and I can’t stop reading. Books are set in California, Mexico, and Hawaii.
Debbie says
I loved The Great Alone. It was such a different read – deep and thought-provoking. I just finished a series by Khristen Heitzmann starting with A Rush of Wings. It was great! I love your book reviews. Keep them coming!
Jocie says
Hello! I am finally catching up on all recommendations made by Shay and readers alike! I read: An American Marriage (Pass, not the best) Educated (YES) A Nantucket Wedding (Am I crazy? Pass) Ready Player One (YES) Tangerine (Pass) Shoe Dog (YES) Confessions of a Domestic Failure (Hilarious and light, YES) and Everything I never told you (Pass)…. I am currently reading The Last Mrs. Parrish and its okay so far but its not the page turner I expected! Anyone read it and can tell me if it turns gripping?
Mix and Match Mama says
At the halfway mark!!!
Debbie says
I LOVE reading your book reviews! I read a book this month that I absolutely adored and still cannot get out of my head. It’s called Pretending to Dance by Diane Chamberlain. I’ve read a few of her other books and I’ve loved them all but this one blew me away! I think you would love it!!
Lauren Reitmeier says
Cutting for Stone by Abraham Verghese is wonderful. It’s LONG and deep, for sure not a quick chic-lit but man, it is good. I highly recommend it (I immediately read his other two non-fiction books after because I needed more when I finished!).
I’m also reading the Paper Magician series right now. They are good, quick reads. A little like Harry Potter lite, definitely YA, but in a good way. Oh and speaking of YA, Eleanor & Park was a great quick read also!
Thank you for your monthly reviews – they are wonderful!
Ps – just got a kindle paper white thanks to your recommendation, love it!
Rachel Tran says
I am a huge fan of all Andrews books! Great for summer! One of my other favorite books is, Mrs. Kennedy and Me by Clint Hill. I’m not into politics and this book isn’t about politics, but rather an inside look at the life of Jackie Kennedy during and after her husbands Presidency. It is written by her Secret Service agent Clint Hill and it is so captivating to read about our American history told from the perspective of people who actually lived through it! Also, I don’t know if you’ve ever read either of Bob Goff’s books, but both of them are perfect for starting your morning. They’re little short chapters of encouraging stories and easy to read each morning!
Carmen says
Have you ever read anything by Kate Morton? I think you would like her.
Jamie says
You HAVE to check out the author Charles Martin – so so good. My favorites by him are When Crickets Cry, Water From My Heart, Send Down the Rain, and Wrapped in Rain. He also wrote The Mountain Between Us (there was a movie based on this book that recently came out). It’s hard to describe his writing style, but there’s always some romance and a lot of symbolism to Christianity without being overly religious (if that makes sense?).
Margaret says
These are fabulous books!
Cindy says
Everybody, Always and Love does by Bob Goff. They are Christian “self help” kind of books but so uplifting and amazing stories of things that have happened in his life. Easy reading and will have you laughing out loud and crying the ugly cry through out. Highly recommend.
Nicole says
Have you read The Girl You Left Behind? It’s my favorite book so far this year and I totally agree The Great Alone is my favorite of Hannah’s books so far!!
Katie says
THANK YOU, Shay, for taking the time to write these posts each month. They are my absolute favorite!!!
Caroline says
So excited to see you enjoyed Summer Wives– that’s my Book of the Month book this month (whew, tongue twister!) Do you do BOTM? It’s a subscription service where they offer four books a month and you choose which one they send to you for $14! I read so much more now.
Maria says
I agree with your reviews on The Great Alone and The Seven Husbands (…). Eleanor Oliphant’s book was pretty great. It was quirky and unexpected. I just read The Almost Sisters by Joshilyn Jackson and I really enjoyed it. Last year I read One True Loves based on your reviews and I LOVED IT. I look forward to your recommendations.
amy says
Shay, you are so precious to do these book reviews! I just love them! Glad you enjoyed The Great Alone…that is my favorite of the year so far (I love playing the favorite game BTW). A few months ago you recommended The Last Mrs. Parrish…my good friend and I read it and it sparked a lot of conversation about whether or not there are actually people like that in this world! I loved My Oxford Year, but not as much as The Royal We!! Beartown is what I am currently reading and enjoying…a little denser and not as quick of a read for me, but I like it. Question: You are a fast reader, and I am a slow reader. I am so curious about fast readers. My sweet 86 year old friend is a super fast reader, and she says she reads every word. Is that true for you, too? I have also heard people say they read the first and last paragraph of every chapter and the first and last sentence of every paragraph. I want to read faster, but I certainly don’t want to miss anything! I am slightly ADD, so I notice that I have to reread sentences because my mind drifts…especially in the first 50-100 pages of a book before I am hooked. Any thoughts on all of this?
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m pretty sure I read every word. I’m not sure if I’m a fast reader or a devoted one 🙂 .
Lisa says
Love your book reviews! You need to read How To Walk Away by Katherine Center – think you’ll love it! Also, anything by Charles Martin is good.
Ashley says
Pleeeeeease read Lilac Girls by Martha Hall Kelly. Just finished it at the beach and could not peel myself away from it. You will love it if you like the WWII historical fiction books as well as deep stuff, chic lit, suspense…it truly covers everything. It’s become my new fav book. Hope you read it so we can see your thoughts!
KM says
I am in agreement with you regarding the newest Giffin novel. I normally LOVE her books but was very underwhelmed for all the reasons you mentioned. Additionally, I felt it was more preachy than it was bringing awareness to certain issues in today’s world. It felt stereotypical to me as well. If you are born into wealth you therefore cannot have a good moral compass, according to this book. Plus, I missed me a good love story! Lastly, while I appreciated the Mom acknowledging the fault in her son, I didn’t buy that she IMMEDIATELY didn’t give him the benefit of the doubt. Not that it would have been right by any stretch, but in cases like this I feel it is more human nature to want to protect our own young. I am not condoning that behavior by any means, I guess it just seemed a little quick for her to go against her son and husband and not have much internal struggle with it, if that makes sense?
Kim says
Think I have asked before – and I could have missed it – have you read The Glass Castle??????? wow!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Named it one of my favorite books of the year just last month!! Check out my June Book Review!
Kim D says
You should check out the “What Should I Read Next” podcast by Anne Bogel or better yet go on it! She’s got great taste in books!
nancy sharko says
I had similar feelings about All We Ever Wanted but think it was a The Secrets Between Us by Thrity Umrigar. It’s very difficult (and different) subject matter but so beautifully written.
Cathy says
Thank you for recommending My Oxford Year; it was excellent! I have read 71 books so far this year and it is absolutely number 1 on my list, so, so good!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yay!!!!!!!!!!
Lori says
Always love your book reviews! Add Tara Westover’s memoir – Educated – to your list of books to read. Really fascinating.
SS says
I totally agree with you about The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo – what a great title and the actual book did not live up to it. I was pretty disappointed. Like you said, the main character was so unlikable and completely self centered – as were most of the characters in the book. I didn’t even like the narrator. There was a fun, gossipy feel to the book, but that’s all that I enjoyed about it.
Excited you said you liked Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone the best of any of her books. Better than The Nightingale? I loved The Nightingale. That was definitely the best book I read the year that came out. But I have read a couple of her other ones and where they have been good, they weren’t amazing like The Nightingale.
People say they love Small Great Things and it was good, but very preachy and not realistic at all in my opinion. But I am not a Jodi Picoult fan in general.
So many books… So little time. 🙂
Megan says
I agree with you about All We Ever Wanted. It was good but I didn’t like the ending, I wanted more justice. I highly recommend Something in the Water! I couldn’t put it down and was surprised by the ending (which is rare for me!)
Julie says
Me again, I love reading the comments. Have you ever read Kate Morton? Her books are long but really well done. They are flashback and present day storylines and the stories come together at the end. Check her out!
Kristin says
Your book review posts are some of my favorite! One of my current favorites is Confessions of a Domestic Failure by Bunmi Laditan. I have 1 year old twins and I was either crying from laughing or completely agreeing with what she was going through! I highly recommend it!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!!!!! I loved that one too, Kristin!!
Aparna says
Hi Shay! Always look forward to your book reviews…have read some great books since last year thanks to you! I’m on the same page as you about The seven husbands of Evelyn Hugo. Read it last week and wasn’t impressed. The main character is just not likeable….am going to go by your recommendation and read The Great alone…another good book I read last month was The woman left behind by Linda Howard, it’s an engrossing romance. Loved Eleanor Oliphant! Read t last year, you won’t be disappointed!
Renee says
Have you read “I will be your blue sky” by Marisa de los Santos? It reminded me of “Cancel the Wedding”. I loved it. I am currently reading “Love Walked In”. It comes before “blue sky” but both books stand alone.
Francie says
I just finished Eleanor Oliphant. I loved it and rank it in my top three so far this year. It’s an easy read, but the book definitely isn’t chick lit and it tackles some deep issues. I’ll be waiting so hear what you think.
Ashley says
I’m reading Emily Giffin’s newest book too right now and it’s not sitting right with me either. Also seems to have a lot of anti-conservative and anti-Christian undertones and those characters who ARE Christian and conservative are portrayed as the hypocritical racists in the book. Don’t think I can stomach another one of her books after this one. Too political and self-serving for me!
Donna Garcia says
Love all of these suggestions! Can’t wait to get on Kindle! Another title to try is Sunday Dinners by Kellie Kelley. Great story line about a southern family. I believe she may have a second one coming out soon!
J says
They are 100% R rated but the Travis series by Lisa Kleypas are a light fluffy series. The second one has some trigger warning (rape and assault) scenes but for the most part a light fun, sexy times read. Highly recommend to break apart some more serious books.
monica says
if you are in to dark, suspense thrillers, I recommend, “Then she was Gone,” by Lisa Jewell. Wow this one was really good. It is really dark, and kind of hard to take (without giving away the ending), but for a thriller, its really good.
Michelle says
Love your book reviews! I was really interested in what you thought of Emily Griffin because I completely agree with you. I was looking forward to that book for the longest time and I was a bit disappointed. I was conflicted between the villain and his mother. I felt that she was as well. I also felt there should have been more justice. The book also left me wanting some type of romance in the end instead of them just hinting at it. I read it earlier last month and I’m still not sure how I feel about it if you can’t tell.
Olivia says
You need to read Susan Meissner’s books! Haven’t been able to put them down!
Rosey says
I haven’t been consistent with reading but I renewed my love of books recently. I just finished The Wife Between Us and am now reading The Year of Yes by Shonda Rimes. So many of your recommendations sound amazing! Thank you for encouraging others to read and help My me get back on my dusty horse. Reading is so relaxing and I find it so rewarding compared to browsing through social media. Thanks, Shay!
Linda E says
I read Eleanor Oliphant last year when it was first published and it was my favorite book of the year! You will love Eleanor! She is a younger Ove! I also recommend The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg and Only Child by Rhiannon Navin!
Laura says
Favorite post of the morning the month for me!! I read Educated by Tara Westover this month – so good! I also read The Queen of Hearts – not super easy to read but second half of the book clicks right along. I also read the Rosie Project – an older book but super cute easy read. Can’t wait to talk books again next month. Happy reading 🙂
Marti says
I love Kristin Hannah’s writing and The Great Alone did not disappoint. I agree with you also about The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo. I didn’t even finish that book, and that is rare for me.
JL says
I just finished Castle of Water on your recommendation from last month, it was AMAZING!!! Maybe my all time favorite book! Thanks so much for recommending! If you haven’t read The Alice Network, it is another favorite as well as A Man Called Ove, and Beartown, both by Frederick Backman. 🙂
Amy D. says
The Great Alone was an amazing book and I loved it!
I recommend:
Night Road by Kristin Hannah
Hocus Pocus & The All New Sequel by A.W. Jantha (it’s kid friendly and if your kids love the Hocus Pocus movie, then I think they would love this book)
Natalie Alvarado says
You must read All your Perfects by Colleen Hoover. It will resonate with you. I couldn’t stop reading it.
Keri says
Late comment, but I just finished reading the newest Colleen Hoover book “All Your Perfects” and I think you would really enjoy it. I felt similarly to you about her books after reading “It Ends With Us” but this one was SO good and follows a storyline you may be able to relate to. Thanks for these posts, I look forward to them every month and always scour the comments for more recommendations!
Victoria says
I feel like I have read a lot of your book reviews, but I’m just not sure- have you read little fires everywhere? I wasn’t completely sold by the description but a family member and a friend recommended it. I loved it. If you haven’t read it yet I would definitely give it a try. Thank you so much for sharing!
Alison Mayes says
Have you read anything by Becky Wade. She writes chick lit novels but she has some of the funniest characters. Her first book My Stubborn Heart might be my favorite!
Amanda says
Every review I’ve read/person I’ve talked to have said the same thing as you about the new Emily Giffin book! Too bad, normally I love her writing!
You may like The Shortest Way Home by Miriam Parker.