Happy LAST DAY OF SCHOOL FRIENDS!!!
Seriously, I cannot even imagine how you teachers feel right now!!!!
I am SO EXCITED myself!!
No more lunches, no more homework, no more waking up early, no more any of that because at 3:00 today, SCHOOL IS OUT FOR SUMMER!!!
Needless to say, I’m excited 🙂 .
This summer, we have so many fun things planned, but what I’m most excited about is spending all of that extra time with my kiddos. The older I get, the more I realize that the years are short. This season in my life is flying by! One minute, I have a toddler and the next? An almost fifth grader! When did that happen? And why is it happening so quickly? I’m trying so hard to stop and soak it all up.
Let’s take a moment to look at Kensington on the first day of kindergarten…
…and at three o’clock today, she’ll be in the fifth grade.
Someone come here and hold me.
Right now.
Ugh! Time, please slow down!!!
Okay, while I get myself together, let me share this with you from my friend Sheila…
…that is so me. Hahaha!
Today’s book review is kind of short and sweet. This May, thanks to all of that “end of the year craziness!”, I only read three books, but guess what? I LOVED ALL THREE! Sit back, sip your coffee and enjoy. I really think you should read all of them 🙂 .
Friends…is it going to happen again?
In 2017, my FAVORITE book of the year was by Taylor Jenkins Reid. I read One True Loves and loved it enough to give it the “best book” title out of all 62 books I read that year and now, she’s given me another book that could make it to number one this year. I LOVED Daisy Jones & The Six! I have #allthethoughts so please stick with me here.
First, this book is pure fiction but the way it’s written will make you think it’s a memoir or biography. It’s about a band in the 1970s and how it came to be, how they interacted with each other, how their lives were intertwined, how they built each other up and tore each other down…it’s a book about a band, but it feels very real. The book is not written in chapters like you know, every other book we read, but instead, it’s written “interview style”. Now, it took me a minute to get the hang of reading this because it’s not how I typically read a book, but once I did, I loved it. I thought this style of writing really gave the author some freedoms and liberties she wouldn’t have had otherwise by writing normal chapters. I thought it was odd at first, but quickly grew to love it. Second, I want there to be a sequel! I was invested in these people! I was really sad when I flipped to the last page because I liked them. I liked their stories. I liked their songs (full lyrics are in the book). I liked reading it so much and wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Now, I don’t know that I would call this book rated R, but I would say it’s a strong PG-13. There is some adult language and context, so if that’s not your cup of tea, move on…but I really hope it is because this book was more than just a read…it was an experience.
You guys, THANK YOU!!
Last month, so many of you told me to read the Peachtree Bluff series by Kristy Woodson Harvey, so I did and I loved book number one!
Slightly South of Simple was an easy little beach read. If you love Elin Hilderbrand and Nancy Thayer books, then you’ll love this one too! This chick-lit novel is about three sisters returning home to the coast of Georgia where their mom lives for a season. All three adult sisters and their mama have some things going on in their lives that provide all the necessary drama a good beach read must have…a little love story, a little conflict, a little mystery and a lot of great food and and coastal references that will have you wanting to hit the East Coast stat! I loved this one so much that I would have jumped right into the second book of the series (I believe there are three total), but I didn’t want my whole review today to be just about this series. That being said, if you’re buying this one, I would go ahead and buy the others because you’re going to want to keep going. This is the perfect novel to throw in the pool bag!
Whoa!
My month ended with a BANG!
I love, love, loved The Silent Patient!!
In fact, I have probably already told at least 10 people to read it.
This is just a good old-fashioned mystery. As much as I love those psychological thrillers, this one is more “this bad event happened” and now “we need to figure it out”…but there is a twist, and I had no idea how it would end. I breezed through this novel faster than any of the others this month. I was hooked from the very beginning and had to know how it would end. You will be intrigued and sitting on the edge of your chair the whole time. I loved this book!
Now, we’re not done with book suggestions for the month because both of my big kids have some for you!
Kensington loved 11 Birthdays this month! Now, the timing couldn’t be better because she’s about three months away from her 11th birthday, so I really think she related to the main character here. When she explained this book to me, it sounded like the movie Groundhogs Day…but a novel…for kids. She loved it!
Smith picked up one of these Alex Rider books (there is a series) to read after he was done with state testing this month (because they have to sit there until everyone is finished) and loved it! He went to the library and checked out several more after that. Based on what he said, these books are kind of like Star Wars meets Avengers. He loves them and therefore, so do I 🙂 . I love any book that encourages my nine year old boy to visit the library.
Okay, that’s my MAY BOOK REVIEW!!
This month, if you have read one of my books based on my reviews (this year, last year or any year), post a pic on Instagram or in your Stories, so that I can see!! I’ll try and re-gram as many as I can!
Okay, what did you read this month??? Please comment and share!!! I love, love, love getting book recs from you!!
Don’t forget!! To see a running list of the books I’m reading this year, click HERE.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2015 (all 63 of them), click here.
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.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2018 (all 61 of them), click here.
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.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2018 (all 61 of them), click here.
Erika Slaughter says
I already have Daisy Jones on my Kindle-ready to read!
Narci says
Oh, I loved Slightly South of Simple!! So cute!
Marie D. says
Daisy Jones and the Six was my absolute favorite book I have read so far this year! Absolutely LOVED it so much that I then listened to the audio version and I fell in love with the book and characters all over again in a new way. I highly suggest the audio as well, it’s AMAZING! Happy Summer! p.s. I always love book review day!!!
Sally Hepworth says
I’m so glad you loved Daisy Jones and The Silent Patient. Both favourites of mine! I recently read The Things We Cannot Say by Kelly Rimmer and it was absolutely unputdownable! Next Up I have The Night Before by Wendy Walker. Happy Summer Reading!
Liz says
I just finished The Mother in Law. I couldn’t put it down. I loved it!
Kristne says
So glad you liked Daisy Jones! I’m still waiting for the library to get it, but I may just need to buy it. I’ve read all of Taylor Jenkins Reid’s books thanks to you and love them all! Recently finished Where the Crawdads Sing…so good! Currently reading Educated.. also amazing!
Jennibell says
I’m deep into your”The Mother-in-Law”….and then you and Shay tempt me with another list!!! Are there enough hours in the summer??
Kelly says
Sally,
Loved the mother-in-law! Thank you for the perfect story.
christina says
I listened to Daisy Jones and the Six. I loved everything about it. I also has to Google it to find out if they were a real band. Looking forward to lots of beachy reads this summer!!
Jacki says
If you haven’t already, read The Nightingale by Kritstin Hannah was our latest book club book and loved by all.
Amanda Wilson says
Thanks for the book suggestions Shay! I find it so hard to read all year but in the summer I know out like 10 books!!!
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
Looks like I need to get my hands on some of these books, especially Daisy Jones and The Six! Thanks for the thorough reviews, Shay! 🙂
–
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Cori says
I LOVED Daisy Jones! I’m super excited because they are also turning it into a TV show on amazon, with Reese Witherspoon producing!
Lia says
I’m currently reading:
The Jane Austen Project by Kathleen Flynn
The Strange and Beautiful Sorrows of Ava Lavender by Leslye Walton
Vanity Fair by William Makepeace Thackeray
Moonlight on the Avenue of Faith by Gina B. Nahai
A Gentlemen in Moscow by Amor Towles
Sheaffer Sims says
It’s the last day of school. My brain isn’t working correctly.
I’ve. Got. Nothin.
Eileen McCullough says
I loved Daisy Jones and the Six too! I had to Google to make sure the band wasn’t real and it wasn’t an autobiography. I love how the interview style made it feel like a biography. I listened to The Other Woman by Sandie Jones this month and loved it.
Holley@beesimplyorganized.com says
Great review! I always come to your book reviews when I’m looking for my next read! This month I read The Tattooist of Auschwitz(one of my favorite reads ever!) and Magnetic Christianity. Now I’m reading Do It Scared.
Kathleen says
I listened to Daisy Jones for my book club and loved it! It felt very VH1 behind the music to me! Have you read the Seven Husbands of Eleanor Hugo by the same author, another great book.
Mix and Match Mama says
Okay, I didn’t like that one. I’m such a huge TJR fan, but Eleanor fell flat for me (I didn’t like her…).
Jennibell says
Ha! Before I saw your comment I almost replied with, “Nooooooo not The Seven Husbands”. But I am looking forward to Daisy Jones I think!! One True Loves is an all-time favorite along with “It Ends With Us” by Colleen Hoover. That book BROKE me…..I think I have a better understanding of that type of pain now….
Laura Thomas says
One True Loves and It Ends With Us are my top two favorite books!!
Lauren says
Hi Shay! Do you wear a regular or petite xs in the Athleta tops!? Added a few books to my amazon cart! Can’t wait to read them!
Mix and Match Mama says
regular!
Vanessa says
Do you no longer use Goodreads?
Mix and Match Mama says
I forget about it! Ugh! I need to remind myself!
Maura says
Hi Shay,
I also second listening to the Audiobook for Daisy Jones and the Six if you have the chance! It brought the book to life with all of the emotion conveyed in the characters’ voices. And each character is read by a different person! SO good!!! 🙂
Kathleen Drummond says
I just finished The Silent Patient as well! Soo good. I was glad for a break from all the “thriller” books I’ve been reading, but still have the mystery theme I love so much.
Beth says
Maybe I need to give Daisy Jones another shot. I started it and was just not enjoying it but I didn’t get far at all. Maybe I need to try again. I also Loved The Silent Patient!
Andrea says
I felt the exact same way! I started and quit because it just wasn’t holding my attention. I think I’ll try again with the audiobook and see if that’s better. ?
Karen says
So we have year round school which I LOVE!! (9 weeks on, 3 weeks off all year) but I do get a little sad when everyone else is wrapping up for summer and we aren’t! We are out as of this Friday for 4 weeks then head back 7/9 and then we have a bunch of breaks all year so we end up with a track out each season. It’s great for vacations on “off” times and good for learning retention. I’m adding a bunch of these books to my library list!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
Yay putting the beach read on my list! The coast of Georgia sounds enticing! Have you read The Alice Network yet? I’ve been recommending that one none stop now. If you like The Nightingale or Lilac Girls, you’ll love this one!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Rachel says
The Fall and Rise, The Story of 9/11 by Mitchell Zuckoff. Unbelievable book. Not a light read but so good. Feel like everyone should read it. Happy Summer!
Chelsea says
I just finished Sunset Beach by Mary Kay Andrews. If you’re looking for an easy beach read, I’d recommend it. Also, just finished the second book in the Peach Tree Bluff series and immediately ordered the third book. Loving that series!
Rebecca says
Keep going with the peachtree bluff series. They’re all 3 so good! I’m so glad you finally read the first one!
Angie says
I just bought Daisy Jones and the Sox yesterday. We read The Silent Patient for book club this week. I couldn’t put it down either. I figured out the twist but it was so good. I heard it’s already been picked up to be made into a movie.
Kristi B says
I’ve read your book posts for a year or so now and absolutely love it! We must have very similar tastes in books because if I’ve read one you’ve read my thoughts are almost always the same. I LOVED Daisy Jones and the Six. I felt the same way about the interview style at the beginning. Honestly, a few pages in I almost put it away because I was so distracted. So glad I didn’t though! I actually have Slightly South of Simple in my stack to read next.
Peg says
I always look forward to your book recommendations – we have similar tastes in books and I read constantly so always need new suggestions. Have you read “Beautiful Bad” by Annie Ward and “How the Light Gets In” by Jolina Petersheim? I found them at the library and they are both great.
Rebecca says
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren was a quick, fun read!
Abigail Carter says
LOVE your book review days! I just finished Elin Hilderbrand’s new one – Winter In Paradise and LOVED it! It is the first in her new series – kind of like the Winter Street series, but it is not “wintery” at all. I can’t wait for the other 2 in the series to come out. It definitely leaves you hanging. SO good! I also just read & loved Before She Knew Him…a good thriller! And Michelle Obama’s Becoming. Her life is so interesting to me and Ioved reading about what life is like in the White House! I know you liked DC a few years ago, so thought you would enjoy! xoxo
Laura says
Daisy Jones took me a minute to get rolling but then I was hooked. My 27-year old daughter and I both read it and had such a great discussion after it, we wanted to find a book club to discuss it with too. Our life experiences have us very different viewpoints. I’m excited for the series but would have loved to see it as a movie.
Beth Miller says
I LOVED Daisy Jones!!! I also enjoyed The Silent Patient but did not like the ending. It left me scratching my head and wondering why it ended like that. But I still liked it. I read “I’ll Be Your Blue Sky” last week and have named it one of my favorite books so far this year!!! It’s a MUST-READ! I started Marriageable yesterday and love it so far!
Elspeth Mizner says
Great suggestions! I will definitely be adding some of these to my reading list for the summer. Happy Last day of School, you made it! Now summer can begin!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Judy says
If you loved the silent patient as much as I did, you should read “The Last Mrs. Parrish.” So good!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I loved that one too!!!
Sherry Kenney says
Daisy Jones and the Six is on my list! I have a 9 year boy, too, so I’m going to look up Smith’s suggestion. We recommend the Geronimo Stilton series for Smith. I think we’ve been to the library 3 times in a week picking up more books in the series. Sometimes it’s hard finding a good series for boys.
Julie says
I absolutely loved Daisy Jones! I cried at the end! I know exactly what you mean, I felt like I knew these people and it was almost disorienting when you remember they’re fictional characters-ha! I’m so glad you picked up Slightly South of Simple. The whole series is adorable and fun to read. I felt like the third wasn’t the best, but I truly enjoyed them all and #2 was REALLY good too. I’m reading ‘The Lovely Wife’ and WOW! It is MESSED UP! A crazy Dexter meets Mr. & Mrs. Smith novel. You might enjoy and you will fly through it. And I read ‘Violet Grant’ and ‘What Remains’ (two of your top pics) last month and loved them both!! Happy reading.
Tiffanie says
I read Slightly South of Simple and couldn’t leave the story so I finished the other two books by audio all in less than 3 weeks 🙂 It’s such a great beach read and they are fun to listen to…
stephanie says
Too bad there isn’t a way for me to automatically load all your books to my good reads tagged as “want to read”. or is there?!
Jennifer Goodwin says
This week I started and finished The Secret of Clouds by Alyson Richman. It was fantastic! I also read and LOVED Accidental Heroes by Danielle Steele. If you’ve not read her books, give all her later ones a try. They’re always so good, she is one of my go-to authors if I ever need a book I know I’ll love.
Keisha Dawson says
When you posted the little teaser on Instagram of Daisy Jones and the Six, I had just finished it, and I might have let out a little squeal. I never actually read a book in the same month that you do a review. It was such a great read! I already have The Silent Patient on hold at the library, and I’m adding the other one to my holds list now. I started Becoming by Michelle Obama this month, but I just couldn’t get into it. I’ve heard the audio version is fantastic, and I think I will enjoy that more, so I’m going to pick up the audio version vs the paper version for that one.
Amanda says
Loved Daisy Jones. I was hooked and couldn’t believe it wasn’t a biography. Just finished One True Loves as I really enjoyed TJR writing. Will have to pick up the peach tree bluff series now that summer has started!
Marie Claas says
I just finished a novel called “Julia’s Child” by Sarah Pinneo! I loved it! It’s about a wife and mother in NYC, who tries to make a go of an organic natural food company, aimed at toddlers. It goes through her struggles with money, ambition, motherhood and corporate giants. It was so engaging, I couldn’t wait to read on. I think, being a working mom with a constantly growing set of business concerns, you might relate and enjoy this one!
Christina McCoy says
Yay!!!! Love love love book review day!!! Thank you so much for sharing all your books. I always turn to your reviews do pick my next book ❤️❤️
Jenn says
The audio version of Daisy Jones and the Six is REALLY good!! They have some great narrators for all the different characters. I think it really helped with the interview format.
Anna Kate says
I read The Silent Patient last month and loved it! This month I read Where the Crawdads Sing, The Great Alone, The Power, A Woman is No Man, and am currently ready House of leaves. I liked them all and would especially recommend A Woman is No Man!
Mix and Match Mama says
You read some great ones this month!!!
Kelly says
I agree with Anna!
A woman is no Man is so good!!
Bev says
Hi Shay, I took The Accidental Beauty Queen with me on vacation based on your recommendation. I felt the same as you, cheesy, yes, but enjoyable nonetheless! I’m a twin but we’re more alike than Charlotte & Ginny (more like Charlotte) ?. We have another sister who lives out east so now I want to read Slightly South of Simple! Thanks for your reviews. They make me want to be more of a reader. Happy Summer!
Kasie Miller says
I always love your book reviews! And the Peachtree Bluff Series is one of my absolute favorite–the third one arrives tomorrow and I can’t wait to start it!
Juliana says
Hi Shay! I typically love your book reviews and am an avid reader myself, however am disappointed in how inappropriate some of your book recommendations have been. I have spent money to purchase some of the books you’ve recommended only to find out it has graphic sex scenes, terrible language, and violent content. Maybe I’m just not that into those types of books. I was hoping that as a Christian you wouldn’t strongly support a book like Daisy Jones & the Six which positively portrays cheating, abortion, and drugs. I am glad I got it from the library and didn’t spend money on that one. Sorry! I have been following your blog for years and will continue to do so regardless of what books you read. (:
Mix and Match Mama says
I really try and always put ratings next to any book I feel is graphic or rated R. I do not enjoy purchasing books that aren’t for me, so I try my hardest to make sure I include enough in my reviews (without giving anything away) that would inform the buyer about what type of book it is. Out of the three books I reviewed today, two of them I wouldn’t consider R and the other, I stated that in the review. I’m not even going to entertain your notion that a Christian can’t read a book with strong language, abortion and foul language. That has nothing to do with my faith. I appreciate good writing, creative plots, unusual narrative, surprise endings and books that keep me entertained. Do I love everything every character did in Daisy Jones & The Six? No. Do I think it was probably an accurate representation of many bands in the 70s? I do. Do I find that interesting? Yes. Learning about/reading about lifestyles that are different than ones own isn’t a sin. I don’t want to live in a bubble where every single person thinks exactly like I do. How do I know what I believe if I don’t know what my other options in life are?
Taylor R says
Right on, Shay! Well said.
talia says
I agree, Shay! Well written!
deannab1 says
I LOVE this response. Seeing the world from various perspectives strengthens your ability to empathize and opens your heart for more understanding and less judgment. Books are an amazing tool for this.
Jennifer Conroy says
Hi Shay!
What a great, thoughtful response! I think you do a great job of explaining your thoughts and rating when doing these book reviews. I hope comments like this do not deter you from sharing your monthly reads with us because it’s my favorite posts of yours to read. ?
Jeanelle says
Agreed! I’m very religious and just finished reading Daisy Jones & the Six this week and LOVED IT! Yes it had adult themes and a few more F bombs than I enjoy reading/hearing but I appreciated so much that the adult themes weren’t told in a graphic/detailed way. Everyone has their own personal thresholds as to what they feel comfortable reading and if you know what yours are (i.e. graphic sex, violence and/or swearing), then it’s totally fine to not read books that bother you but please withhold judgment for those who don’t have an issue reading what you won’t. Sidenote, Shay, I finished 7 books this month (the most ever!) and I honestly credit you for renewing my love of reading. I just started book 8 (Mother in Law by Sally Hepworth – so good!) Thank you for sharing your love of books and for always, ALWAYS giving us an honest review. Happy Summer!!
Sheri says
Very well said, Shay! I happen to think the fact that you are inclusive and accepting of other people and points of view paints a really good picture of Christians!
Kathy says
Perfectly stated, Shay. Thank you for sharing your honest book reviews with the world. I have read so many based on your recommendations.
Carly says
Hi, Juliana,
I recommend Kara Isaac if you’re looking for clean romance!! I read, and loved, Can’t Help
Falling and Then There Was You this month!!
I tend to just skim over the completely inappropriate parts that some books add in (I’m looking at you Christina Lauren and Jasmine Guillory), but it’s nice to go into a book knowing you won’t gave to do that!
Michelle Nies says
Anthony Horowitz also writes books for adults. They are his takes on Agatha Christie, Sherlock Holmes, and James Bond. They are so good!
Sarah Lewis says
I love your book review days! It keeps me motivated to try and find a new good book. Thank you for always sharing your favorites!
Vivi Mackenzie says
Womp-Womp…. I think I may be the only one who didn’t like Daisy Jones and the Six. ;( I really can’t even put into words why. It just never piqued my interest, and I honestly kept praying for it to end so I could move on to my next book. I always feel the book is better than the film version, but I hope I’m wrong in this case. I love Reese Witherspoon, so maybe she can liven it up for me and change my mind. 🙂
talia says
I just read “Daisy and The Six” on vacation and agree that it was wonderful! Also read, “The Mothers” by Brit Bennett and “Beartown” by Frederick Backman. All wonderful books!
Kayla Bruce says
Since I’m a college professor, my school year ended a few weeks ago now, and I’ve spent most of the time off reading! I love book review day! My friend recommended Jenny Colgan’s The Little Shop of Happily Ever After, and I loved it! Rented another of her books– The Summer Seaside Kitchen– from the library, and I think I’ve gotten through that one even quicker. Also read Word by Word by Kory Stamper. It wasn’t the most exciting read, but it was really different and interesting!
Cathy says
I am ashamed to say I was so relieved that your book review was only three books and that I already read all three. My TBR stack is super tall right now and I always end up getting at least one book you recommend. I need to catch up- like that ever will happen! I love summer reading season. So many good books are coming out this summer.
Kelly Rush says
I have a two book suggestions for you I have read one and I am reading one now…
The French War Bride by Robin Wells, I loved it so much I have read it twice. I am also reading right now Caroline Little House, Revisited. It’s the Little House in the Prairie story from Caroline the Mom’s perspective. So good!!!
Deannab1 says
MIchelle Obama’s Becoming and Trevor Noah’s Born a Crime were both FANTASTIC. No matter what your political views, you will get something out of both of these books. Born a Crime is easily the best book I’ve read in the last 5 years. These are probably a bit of a departure for you, but I would highly encourage you to go for it. I “read” Born a Crime during my morning commute via audible. Listening to it in his voice was amazing.
For the kids (I teach English, so I have lots of recs):
Smith – The Lightning Theif series, Peak, and Touching Spirit Bear
Kensington – The Uglies series, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, and Esperanza Rising
Melodie says
Currently reading After I Do by TJR. I’m loving it. Have you read that one?
Sharon A says
Book review day is my FAVE! I just finished The Mother-in-Law and The Silent Patient, and I loved both!!! Adding the summer series you suggested to my “want to read” on Goodreads now! I love your suggestions. Thx so much! 🙂
Kelly Plante says
I absolutely love the book review post! I go into my Libby account and prioritize my books/audiobooks based on your recommendations and you haven’t steered me wrong yet!
Sheila Charbonneau says
Yay! This is my favorite post of the month! I just finished The Silent Patient. Omgoodness, so good! Happy last day, your babies are getting so big!
Karen says
I finished Daisy Jone and the Six yesterday. It took me a few tries to get used to the writing style then I couldn’t put it down and it left me wanting more of the story after I finished it. As usual, I pass on my favorite books to my neighbor to read who then passes them on to her mother. I warned her that though I know she will love it, it may not be right for her mom but to decide after she finishes it. I really appreciate the variety of books you recommend, as well as the ones your readers suggest. I don’t want to always read the same kinds of books, and I pick and choose from what’s suggested. I almost always look up additional reviews before requesting the books from my library, it helps me to narrow down what to read next from so many options. Thanks so much Shay, and to your readers too!
Megan S says
“After I Do” and “Maybe in Another Life” are other great Taylor Jenkins Reid books that I really enjoyed. Highly recommend!
Emily says
I just finished a ARC of Things You Save in a Fire. It’s kind of everywhere right now, but completely worth the hype! You’d love it!
Lisa says
Finally got around to reading All the Light We Cannot See and absolutely loved it! Going at the Peachtree Bluff series a little backwards because I started with # 2…. loved it and already purchased the newest in the series. Will have to go back and read #1! Also read The Mother-in-law and really enjoyed it. Currently reading It’s Always The Husband. Thanks for all the great recommendations! Can’t wait to read The Silent Patient!
Kelsee says
Ahh Daisy Jones and The Silent Patient are both on my TBR list. I’m so glad you liked them both. Can’t wait to pick them up!
I had a big month of reading in May:
The Last Time I Saw You by Liv Constantine- 4 out of 5 stars. I really loved this one, but definitely loved The Last Mrs. Parrish a bit more.
The Honeymoon by Rona Halsall- 2 out of 5 stars
The Third Mrs Durst by Ann Aguire: 5 out of 5 stars…soooo good!
The Mother- In-Law by Sally Hepworth: 5 out of 5 stars
Sunset Beach by Mary Kay Andrews: 4 out of 5 stars. Great beach read.
Our Life in A Day by Jamie Fewery: 4 out of 5 stars.
Rebecca says
The bronze horseman series is a must!! Also the unhoneymooners was a cute fun summer beach read!
Hena Tayeb says
Both Silent Patient and Daisy Jones are on my TBR!
We still have a few weeks of school left.. I can not wait.
Amber says
Shay, as usual I look forward to your book review posts all month long-they are my fave! and I may have stole that little funny and posted it to my own FB page and tagged my reading besties, LOL! That being said, I think I’m the only one on the planet who didn’t love Daisy Jones and the Six-just wasn’t my cup of tea. I could barely finish it-and I fell in love with my first book by the same author One True Loves after you recommended it. As a matter of fact I have recommended it countless of times since! My #1 book last year. Also, I have read the Slightly South of Simple series-love it! A great beach read for sure and I’m adding The Silent Patient to my list to read now! Happy Summer !
Kelly Lane Nation says
Did you read Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine? It was such an enjoyable read and a nice break from my usual thriller obsession. Also, have you ever bought a skort from Athleta?
Celina says
I loved Daisy Jones also!!! I just enjoyed My Favorite Half Night Stand by Christina Lauren. About to start The Huntress, which I have heard is great!
Kate says
Hi Shay! Not book related, but seeing as it is your kiddos last day of school, do you have a go-to teacher gift(s)? The struggle is real for me this year.
Mix and Match Mama says
We typically do gift cards and something fun to go with it (like a monogrammed cup!).
Kellie says
There is a series that I enjoy by Kimberla Lawson Roby. They are all centered around a pastor by the name of Curtis Black. The first book is called Casting the First Stone. You should check it out!
Michaelann Seiders says
I have always loved book review day, but wanted to add that I really love the kids book that are now included!!
Michaelann Seiders says
Love the Peach Tree Bluff series, #2 is waiting on my desk to read! Thanks to your review last month my daughter and I have been reading Because of Winn-Dixie, it has been fun to share!
Carolyn says
I just finished reading My Dear Hamilton. It’s the story of Hamilton’s wife, Eliza. Such a good read.
Amy says
I read 11 birthdays when I was around that age, and there are more! I think it’s 12 wishes, 13 presents, and there’s a 14 one also! They all connect the characters, and I really enjoyed them. Anything by Wendy Mass I loved when I was growing up. A Mango-Shaped Space by her is one of my all-time favorite books! 🙂
Chelsey Fernandez says
I read Daisy Jones & the Six this month too and LOVED it! They need to make a movie based on it so we can enjoy that soundtrack!
Siena Pugnale says
Have you read Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine? It’s funny, it’s quiry, it’s cute, it’s has a few plot twists – it’s everything you look for in a book!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have!!
Lauren Chudzik says
My favorite post of the month! Thanks so much for taking the time to share your reviews. I’ve enjoyed lots of great books based on your recommendations.
Alice says
I like to go through the books from Reese Witherspoon’s book club list. I just finished Something in the Water and really liked it. I also read a book called Boy Erased which was also good and very eye-opening. I have Daisy Jones & The Six on my list!
Mary Jane says
I LOVED Daisy Jones and the Six!! I was an 80’s big hair rock and roll DJ, and this really took me back to those years with the bands. It was so real to me that I kept waiting to turn the pages in the book and find the middle photo section like they have in biographies…you know…in the recording sessions, on the tour bus, at home with family. I wanted to download the CD!! But there is a Spotify playlist to listen to.
Currently reading Nancy Thayer’s Secrets in Summer, set in NANTUCKET!! I got the book at Mitchell’s Book Corner at couple of years ago when we met Nancy there that day, but never got around to reading it. I love that the main character is a librarian in the Atheneum. We walked right on inside that beautiful building when we discovered it was the LIBRARY! And listening to Educated for my book club this month.
Bethany says
Right now I’m reading When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin. He has several others, too!
Leslie Ann says
Kensington needs to read The Wild Robot by Peter Brown. I’m a fifth grade teacher and my kids fall in love with it year after year (just like Eleven Birthdays!) It’s about a robot who is dropped onto an island and has to learn to survive by communicating with the animals. She ends up becoming a mom to an abandoned baby bird. It’s such an amazing story! 🙂
https://www.instagram.com/lalalifebookclub/
Janet says
I have liked everything I have read by Kristy Woodson Harvey. Thanks for all of your reviews. My “too be read” list keeps growing.
Lisa D says
The books I’ve read this month are all sort of “heavy”:
1. Educated by Tara Westover…. Wow! It’s an autobiography and it is amazing how Tara was able to change her life with education.
2. They Call Me “Mr. De” by the former principal of Columbine High School in Colorado, Frank DeAngelis. Since I live in Colorado and work in the education field, I vividly recall the Columbine shootings 20 years ago. I was anxious to read the book and so glad that I did. It is a remarkable telling of a horrific event as told by Mr. De. He so obviously LOVES his students. However, it’s hard to read the parts about the actual shooting. Still, a great book by an amazing educator and human being. Read it!
3. Shift by Tory Johnson from Good Morning America. It tells the story of her huge weight loss. Inspiring, I liked it very much.
4. Then I read Tory’s follow-up book Shift For Good. It was pretty good but lighter than the first one. Still, there is a lot to glean from both books.
5. To finish up my month of “serious” reading I’m now halfway through The Obesity Code. It’s very informative, written by Dr. Jason Fung, and goes into the science of insulin, weight loss, diabetes, obesity. Not easy reading but I’m fascinated by what he’s written. Anyone with questions about weight loss/gain, etc. would gain a lot of useful knowledge with this book. I’m not done with it yet but it’s eye-opening!
I think I’m now ready to read some lighter books! (For what it’s worth, I am not a fan of the F-bombs in TJR’s books but I think reading a book is a personal choice. I respect your decisions to read whatever you want!)
Maureen Werner says
As always, I just love your book review posts!! Question; do you read most of your books on your Kindle or do you buy the hard copy? I love the feel of holding an actual book in my hands, but I have so many books!!! I may have to buy a second home just to house them!!?
Mix and Match Mama says
I was anti-Kindle for YEARS. I was obnoxious about it. And then I bought one…and have eaten my words. I’m obsessed with it and wouldn’t read with anything else!
Amanda Lewis says
I love your kiddo recommendations. Keep them coming! I have already purchased a couple for my 11 yo girl! Thank you!
Have you read “The Art of Racing in the Rain”? It’s a really great book. I highly Recommend. Hope you can read and enjoy!
Kristy Harvey says
I absolutely love your book review posts and THANK YOU for including Slightly South of Simple in your reviews! I am thrilled that you enjoyed it! I also loved Daisy Jones. TJR can give you all the feels in a super understated way. I love that!! I’m reading V right now about Alva Vanderbilt and really enjoying it! Thanks again! xo Kristy
Mix and Match Mama says
I cannot wait to read the other two!! Thank YOU for providing the perfect summer read!! xo
Dana C says
I have Daisy Jones & the Six in my Amazon cart ready to go! Looking forward to reading/listening to that one. You should read The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren next! Its a perfect light, funny, beach read. If you’re looking for another mystery/thriller I’d highlight recommend I Let You Go by Clare Mackintosh!! The first half of the book may seem a little slow but then the second half I read in a day. I couldn’t put it down and had to know what happened. 🙂 Or if you’re looking for a more romance book try Melt for You by JT Geissinger (it’s in a series but a complete stand alone read). It has hate to love trope, forbidden romance, a super relatable main character and a Scottish rugby player.
Julie says
Hi Shay! Re: Kindle, are you able to switch back and forth between Kindle and book? Are the page numbers the same? I can never seem to find out (researching online) if that’s the case. I would love to have the kindle for beach and travel and then use “real” books when I’m home. Love your book reviews!
Mix and Match Mama says
They’re not the same because on a Kindle, you can adjust the font size (to make the words bigger or smaller). I am only reading with my Kindle!!
Jenny Behn says
Have you read Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows? Add it to your list if you haven’t. I just finished it and it was sooooo good =) Don’t be alarmed by the title lol
Alissa says
Just bought Slightly South of Simple (and the following 2 books) and am so excited to read them in Florida next week on vacation! Thanks for the recommendation!
Jody says
Just finished Daisy Jones. The fact that I read it in a day says it was captivating to me… but I’m not sure I loved how it ended. ? I need my friends to read this so I can discuss it.
Keryn says
The Gown was lovely. I loved, loved, loved Dear Mrs. Bird. First book out of many this year that I have really loved.
Carly says
I read and enjoyed all 3 of these! DJ left me wanting moreeee! I need a 2019 Where Are They Now ?. I heard Amazon is doing a series, which is exciting!!
If you’re looking for easy summer reads- Big Sexy Love is so fun! And My Favorite 1/2 Night Stand (r-rated ?) is too!! I also liked The Unwanted Guest a lot! After reading a jillion of the same type of thrillers, books like The Silent Patient and Unwanted Guest have brought a fresh wind for me!
dawn says
I totally love your book reviews. I loved Daisy Jones–I think because it was so different. The other two are now on my to-read list.
Liz Davies says
The Cactus by Sarah Haywood!
Anne-Marie says
I just finished Evidence of the Affair also by Taylor Jenkins Reid. It’s a free prime kindle read. So good! A very quick read
Amanda says
I listened to Daisy Jones and loved it!! I actually cried at the end. I loved all the different characters/actors and their voices. And there were several points where I had to stop and ask myself if this was a true story/real band!
Cathy says
I just finished a terrific book, On the Island by Tracey Garvis Graves. It’s a love story about two people who are in a plane crash and are shipwrecked on a deserted island in the Maldives. I loved and read it one sitting, it was that good!
Kim says
I had heard a lot of buzz about Daisy Jones and the Six. I did like it, but didn’t love it. I found myself kind of feeling like I didn’t really know any of the characters as well as I do with a typical writing style (like when you get to hear a character’s inner thoughts vs what they share in an interview). And I don’t think I actually liked any of the characters.
I just finished The Invited, which kept me guessing and I’m reading The Night Tiger now.
Lisa says
I’m an elementary school librarian, and Wendy Mass is one of my go-to authors when I’m recommending books to my 4th and 5th grade girls! Others include Sarah Weeks and Sharon Creech. Your kiddos should try “Fuzzy Mud” by Louis Sachar (an environmental thriller) and “Fort” by Cynthia de Felice – a great summer story about two boys living their best life building a fort in the woods and defending it, and a special needs boy they befriend, against a couple older neighborhood bullies.
Kristy Woodson Harvey says
Thank you so much for reading Slightly South of Simple!!!!!
Maureen says
I just finished. Pachinko. By Min Jin Lee. Loved it!
MMM says
Have you read The Swan House, by Elizabeth Musser??