Friends, today’s post is EPIC!!
It’s my JUNE BOOK REVIEW and after a few months of just so-so books, this review is PACKED with FANTASTIC summer reads including one book that is now vying for the number one book of the year spot. #whatwhat
Thanks to two flights that lasted over 11 hours, one kid-free vacation and lots of lazy mornings that allowed me to stay up later that night, I read SEVEN books this month and loved them all!!
Best book spot EVER in my life was right here in Mykonos 🙂 .
So, get comfy, open up your Amazon app and start “adding to cart”…you’re going to want to read all of these books!
Friends! This was my first Christina Lauren book, and I loved it! Where has she been all my life? Thank YOU so much for the author recommendation! I kicked off June with MY FAVORITE HALF-NIGHT STAND and thought it was so cute!! This is a quirky little chick-lit book about a young female professor in California who typically hangs with the guys. They make a wager so to speak about finding dates from a dating website for an upcoming event…well, of course, there is a “You’ve Got Mail” kind of twist when the girl and one of the guys get matched without knowing it. I flew through this one! It’s easy to read, funny, cute and the perfect beach/pool read. Now, I would probably call it rated R, so for those of you who like a heads up about that stuff, there you go. When this book was all said and done, I wanted to read more Christina Lauren novels because I enjoyed this one so much. Which one of her books should I read next? I would love to know!
When the brilliant author Sally Hepworth leaves a comment on your blog and recommends you read a book, you read the book…because HER RECOMMENDATIONS ARE ALWAYS FANTASTIC! #nopressuresally 😉 Last month, Sally commented and suggested I read THE THINGS WE CANNOT SAY, and friends, it’s probably the best book I’ve read all year. This novel moves back and forth between present day and World War II. Even though this is a fictional story, I felt like the characters were real. The story starts off in Poland as a family’s life is turned upside when the Nazi’s invade and build Auschwitz right by their property. Even though this particular family is not Jewish, their entire lives change in this poignantly written story about family, faith and sacrifice. The author toggles back and forth from the past to the present as the main character’s children and grandchildren grapple with some new information and revelations about their grandparents who lived through the Holocaust. I loved this book. I loved every page. I thought it was beautifully written and stuck with me long after I read the last page. The bar has been set so high moving forward with my reads in 2019.
Last month, you guys recommended that I read The Bride Test by Helen Hoang, and when I went to buy that one, Amazon recommended that I read this one too. When I read the synopsis of MEET CUTE , I thought it sounded so adorable, so I bought it and read it first. I loved them both so much! (The other review is down below.) Out of the two, I think I loved this one the most, but I’m excited to read more from both authors as both books are cute. Meet Cute is quintessential chick-lit. It’s your typical boy meets girl…there is conflict…there is resolution…there is a happy ending. (Basically, my favorite kind of book!) This tale has a little twist because the characters actually meet years before in law school and the reunite later in life plus, he’s a former teen heartthrob actor, so that’s a quirky little detail too. I thought it was easy to read, happy, funny and the perfect in-flight entertainment. Again, I know some of you really like a rating on your books, so I would probably say this one is rated R as well, so buyer beware. If you have recommendations of other books from this author, please let me know! This is my favorite kind of chick-lit!
This month, I read the final two books in the Peachtree Bluff series (I read the first one last month!). The Secret to Southern Charm was CUTE! This book picks up right where the first one left off with Ansley and her three grown daughters still living together in her house on the beach in Georgia. Friends, this is just easy to read, perfect for summer, you’ll be so happy that there are three of them, chick-lit! I actually loved this second book even more than the first one (and I loved the first one!). Where the first book focuses on the oldest daughter, this second book focuses more on the middle daughter. These are my first Harvey books to read, but I will for sure be getting more of them in the future. If you’re looking for a beachy, summery series, look no further than this one!
I make no bones about the fact that Elin Hilderbrand is my favorite author. I LOVE HER BOOKS. That being said, I’m always honest with you when they don’t hit the mark for me and her last two did not. I was realllllllly nervous when her latest book SUMMER OF ’69 came out because a) I didn’t love her last two books b) I don’t typically like books not set present day c) I was afraid because one of the main characters is 13 and if I’m being honest, I don’t love books when main characters are not adults…but friends, I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! This novel right here is why Elin Hilderbrand is my fave. Her books are charming, the setting is always described in a way that makes you want to be there, the characters have more depth than your typical chick-lit ones do and the plots are always interesting without being super predictable. She just speaks to me and this book right here was a WINNER! This story is about a family living on Nantucket for the summer while the oldest brother is off fighting in Vietnam and then the other family members are left to sort out things back at home. This book had everything I love: great characters, feel good location, lots of yummy food references, a little twist here and there, happy vibes at the end…I loved it. In May, I read Daisy Jones & The Six and while I still love that one, I loved this one even more. All of you Hilderbrand fans out there better grab it! This novel just reminded me why she’s my favorite author.
I wrapped up the Peachtree Bluff series with the third and final book, THE SOUTHERN SIDE OF PARADISE. All three of these books build on each other, so I don’t want to say much about the third one in case you haven’t read the first two (which you should!), but this last novel focuses more on the youngest sister. I thought this last book really did wrap up the series perfectly. When it was all said and done, I wanted to book myself a vacation to the Georgia coast because between the food references, water references, cute little town references, this author has me convinced that’s where I want to be. If you’re looking for a cute series to read this summer, here you go. Make sure you start with the first book and work your way to number three. If you’ve read Harvey books in the past, please tell me which one I should read next!! This series was your idea, and it was a great one! I’m anxious to start another one of her books this summer.
I wrapped up June with The Bride Test. I really liked this novel, but if I’m being honest, I needed a little more “umph”. I flew through this book and am anxious now to read more from Hoang, but this one could have had a few more chapters for me. This story is about a mom who goes to Vietnam to find a bride to bring home for her adult son who is on the autism spectrum. I thought the characters were cute, and I flew through the story, but I probably would have liked it a bit more if it had a little more substance. I wanted to know more about each character because, in my opinion, there were bits here and there, but there could have been more. Who else has read this one? It’s cute, it’s charming, it’s a great beach read…but it was lacking a little something for me. Anyone else? I liked it, but it could have had a bit more “meat” with the story. I will go ahead and label this one rated R as well. I would love to know what other books by Hoang I should read! I’m anxious to try another one from her.
Whew! SEVEN BOOKS! I’m already excited about what’s to come in July! What did you read this month??? What else should I be reading this summer? 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.
Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says
I love that you try a lot of different genres – I need to stop sticking to just thriller books! Thanks for the recommendations, Shay! ?✨
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Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com
Taylor says
You’re right, this post was epic! I can’t wait to get my hands on Elin’s new book!
I read The Simple Wild this month. It’s based in wild Alaska and oh my..I was hooked from the beginning. One of my favorite books I’ve read this year.
Also another favorite..Where the Forrest Meets the Stars. This book made me UGLY CRY. I also read that many people compared it to Where the Crawdad Sings but I haven’t read that one yet so I can’t vouch for that.
Emily O. says
Hey, Taylor! I loved The Simple Wild too, I read it earlier this year! I might reread it since I am going to Alaska in August!
Natashajk says
I’m going to pick this up as we are going to Alaska at the end of July! Thanks for the suggestion.
Mix and Match Mama says
Also read my second favorite book last year, The Great Alone…set it Alaska 🙂 .
Jill says
I agree about The Simple Wild! It’s written by K.A. Tucker. A good one!
Emily F. says
You must read “The Good Sister” by Gillian McAllister! I’m half way through it and can’t put it down!! It’s a murder mystery book and I have no clue yet who did it. I always like what you do, so get this one!! It was just released.
GG says
Peachtree Bluff is one of my fav southern series. I still need to read the last one though. I just finished reading Maymee Bell’s A southern cake baker mystery series. It’s easy and cute chick-lit.
Lindsay says
“Love and Other Words” by Christina Lauren is one of my faves!!! It’s steamy (my word for rated R books) and soo good! Read that one next!
Just like always– I have my library screen open and I’m requesting books as I read your reviews. I’m anxiously awaiting my turn to read Summer of ’69! Thanks for another awesome monthly book review.
Taylor says
Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren is soooo much better than My Favorite Half Night Stand! I was sad when it was over! Definitely read.
Andrea says
Thanks for always sharing your reads. I’ve seen a couple comments recommending Charles Martin, and I can’t agree more. My vote would be to try “When Crickets Cry.” I’m a pediatric nurse so maybe that’s why it pulls at my heart strings, but the sweet girl in that story kinda reminds me of your Ashby. Sweet to the core.
Deana Lewis says
I LOVE Charles Martin. Water from my Heart is my fave ! but they are all fantastic!
Jennifer S. says
Ohh I loved this one also. His books are wonderful!
Erika Slaughter says
I know we’re headed to Mykonos STAT but when we get back let’s head straight to the Georgia coast. That series had me wanting to vacation there immediately!
Sally Hepworth says
Yaaaas! Kelly Rimmer is THE BEST. Full disclosure: she’s a friend of mine, but only because I stalked her because I love her books so much.
I’ve just downloaded the new Reese Witherspoon pick Whisper Network, so I’ll keep you posted on that ! P.S. I was in the U.S. last week for Good Morning America and I used the Glam Squad as per your recommendation and they were amazing ?
Leigh says
Sally Hepworth, I am starting a new book club with a new principal and many new teachers (all younger) at the elementary school where I teach. I’ve been trying to encourage the younger ones who say they don’t have time to read by telling them I read you’re nursing! So, The Mother In Law is one of our first books when we return this fall. Fingers crossed they’ll fall in love with books again!
Sarah says
I can’t wait to start the Peachtree Bluff series. Have you ever read Mary Alice Monroe series?? She has a Beach House series and also a Summer series {that ends with a Christmas book}. I believe there’s 5 books in each series based in Charleston/Sullivan’s Island.
Lisa N says
Curious…..did you have a favorite sister in the Peachtree Bluff series? And, by the way, your Mom played Ansley in my mind…especially in the first one?
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhhhhh! Good question!! I think probably Caroline!
Rebecca says
Love and Orher Words (by far my FAVORITE Christina Lauren book), Roomies, and the Unhoneymooners were all really good, fun reads from Christina Lauren!
Amy Heinl says
I love Mary Alice Monroe. Her books are the best. She has a new one coming out next month
Melissa B says
Love Christina Lauren! Beautiful series is awesome… but does have some steam… so rated r for your readers that don’t want that. Her new one the Unhoneymooners was great, but was a closed door romance. More pg rating. I really struggled with the bride test. I have a son on the autism spectrum and the character did not match the reality of things I live. Thanks for the other recs! Always enjoy your reviews!
Whitney says
I too was going to recommend the Beautiful series. The Wild series by Christina Lauren is fantastic as well. But it’s pg-13 or rated R depending on personal standards.
Susy says
Matching travel with books is such a joy!
See You in the Piazza is another nonfiction book by Frances Mayes. She turns a phrase so beautifully that I often write them down. Whatever parts of Italy you have seen, she beckons you to see more villages not on the mainstream travel routes. A little history, emphasizing cultural differences when you travel a few kilometers down the road. . . . and the food! I’d love a rec for a book on or in Sweden too!
Gina says
I just finished The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren, and I loved it! Highly recommend it!
Carrie says
I loved that one too!!!
Tammy says
I just finished Summer of ‘69 and loved it too! So excited to add some of your June picks to my reading list!
Nicole says
Pachinko!!!!!!!!!
Mary says
Where’s your swimsuit from? I love the print. thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
That is from Nordstrom, but it’s not a recent purchase.
Mary says
What swim top did you wear with the bottoms? Thank you:)
Mix and Match Mama says
A blue wrap one from Athleta!
Sarah P says
I’d say read Dear Carolina and then Lies and Other Acts of Love. Both of Kristy Woodson Harvey’s books are fabulous!! I loved them and she is just about as lovely as she could possibly be. Happy reading!
Laura says
I just finished One Day in December, which might be my favorite, so I needed this today!! Thank you!
Julie krintzman says
Laura-One of my favorite books ever too. Doesn’t this NEED to be a movie???
Lori says
Oh wow Shay, so many good books here! I’ve read the Bride Test and Meet Cute and enjoyed them both. After seeing Sally’s rec for that book, I went and bought a physical copy. I loaned it to a friend because I was in the middle of something else and she LOVED it. Can’t wait to read it. I don’t think Christina Lauren writes any bad books, but I adored Love and Other Words & Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating! I’ve also heard great things about the Unhoneymooners, so it’s on my list. I recently read Where the Forest Meets the Stars and highly recommend it. Thanks for another great book post and happy reading!!
Amy Heinl says
I read the Summer of 69 also this month and loved it. Elin really was back and higher stride with this book. It just had all the feels and was such a great read
Emily says
Be careful with Christina Lauren – their older books are seriously R rated, like triple R. Avoid the beautiful series and wild series unless you like 50 shades of grey type books (I’ve never gotten that impression though). I’ve recently read all of her newer books and they are safe. I loved Love and Other Words and think it’s the best. Their others are the unhoneymooners, josh and hazels guide to not dating, dating you hating you, roomies – all fun reads.
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhhh! I appreciate the heads up, Emily!!
Emily says
I just finished Waiting for Tom Hanks last night and think you would like it. Perfect pool/beach read and if you love Nora ephron movies you will like it because the main character is obsessed with living out her own rom com movie.
Also, I didn’t have enough time before to write more but a Elin Hilderbrand is one of my favs too. This year she personally snagged the top title for me as I reached out to her on Instagram and she connected in a big way. I have a friend that lost her 2 year old and Elin was giving away advance copies of the new book and I asked if there was any way I could get one for my friend to help bring a smile to her face and she delivered and wrote my friend a personal note. Such a small gesture on her part made such a big impact to us. Can’t wait to read her book as I haven’t had the chance yet.
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my goodness! This story just MADE my day!!!!
Ann says
I recently read The Unhoneymooners and LOVED it! It was cute and laugh out loud funny. I think you will love it!
Kelly M Sites says
The Things We Cannot Say is one of my top 5 books ever. My favorite book is The Nightengale, so NOTHING has been able to compare, but THIS BOOK came so close if not tied. I’ve suggested it so many times to so many people.
You MUST read NEED TO KNOW by Karen Cleveland (a new to me author) (she is – in real life- a CIA counter terrorist agent) and this book IS SO SO SO GOOD. Such a massive page turner. I’m obsessed and it will be my top 3 faves of the whole year (and I read about 90 books a year). MUST READ
Jodie says
Need to Know was so good!!!
Lauren says
The Nightingale is AMAZING! I stopped reading for a couple months after because I knew nothing would compare. Kitchen House is also a fantastic read!
Mix and Match Mama says
You need to read The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah as well! It was my second favorite book last year!
Leiah says
I’m almost finished with another Kristi Woodson Harvey book – Lies and Other Acts of Love. It’s also a multi-generational story and soooo good! I don’t think it’s a series but i wouldn’t be mad if she decided to continue the story.
Jayne says
Have you read the Inn Boonsboro trilogy by Nora Roberts? The series has a set-up similar to Peachtree Bluff – it follows a family of three sons, focusing on each in succession in the three books. They are sweet stories and very easy reading.
Katrina Goodman says
Read Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren. I loved it! I just read Unhoneymooners by them as well. It was cute. I am definitely going to read The Things We Cannot Say. I’ve been thinking about reading Meet Cute, but ordered The Girl He Used to Know instead. Ashley Spivey said she loved it, and it is really good! I’m almost done!
Kelly Rimmer says
Oh my goodness – thank you SO MUCH for reading my book and I am so honored that you enjoyed it so much!! Ps I’m a card carrying member of the Sally Hepworth Fanclub too – she’s just amazing!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my word! Are you kidding me?! IT WAS AMAZING!!! Your comment made my day!! I cannot say enough about it!
Kelly Rimmer says
THANK YOU ???
Melissa says
Please interview Kelly and Sally. That would be so fun to read or listen to (your girlfriend phone interviews)… OR start a day in the life featuring ladies like Kelly, Sally, Jamie Ivey, Catherine, and more 🙂
Robin says
I just finished The Islanders by Meg Mitchell Moore and liked it a lot. It takes place on Block Island in RI . And now I’m reading another of hers, The Arrivals and it’s also very good. Also Maid by Stephanie Land is worth a read.
Kelly M Sites says
Um, hi Kelly (from another Kelly) BUT I LOVED LOVED LOVED your book so much. I have suggested it a million times to all of my book loving friends. It was fantastic. Thank you!!!!
Jill says
I hope you don’t mind me adding onto this comment to thank YOU, Kelly, for writing such an amazingly beautiful story. The Things We Cannot Say was one of the best books I’ve ever read. Ever. It pulled at my heart in all the best ways and I was not ready for it to be over. I will recommend it again and again. You are incredibly talented! Thank you for sharing your gifts!
Alison Shanahan says
I thought it was Elin Hilderbrand’s best book yet! I have the Bride Test sitting on my nightstand … maybe I will give it a shot now?. Love your book reviews!!!
Kim says
I added two of these to my Amazon cart. Your recommendations never disappoint. I am a big fan of Memoirs and finished Becoming this weekend and am half way through reading Small Fry. After these two I will grab a chick lit!
Mother of 3 says
I LOVED Summer of ’69 and just recommended it to both my sister and mother too– only to find my mom had never read any of Elin’s books! I do love her stories and this was really captivated me by just how different the times were! I too finished up Peachtree Bluff this month and really enjoyed getting to know Ainsley and the girls. Have you read The Huntress or the Alice Network yet? Those are both books about the World Wars that I just could not put down. Also told in alternating voices and timelines it was so neat to see where the stories would intersect.
Molly says
Just thought I’d share that Christina Lauren is actually not one person. It’s two ladies. One named Christina and one named Lauren. This blew my mind when I found that out!
Mix and Match Mama says
No way?!?! My mind is blown!!!
Lori says
Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah. One of my favorite books I’ve read this year. I think you would really enjoy it, too!
Sarah says
I just finished my first two Christina Lauren books. I read Love and Other Words and liked it so much I looked for another and found The Unhoneymooners. It was such a fun laugh out loud read! I think you would love both! I’ll defintely be reading your recommendation from this author too!
Kim says
City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert is really good!! Also loved Daisy Jones and the Six and Where the Crawdads Sing which I know you’ve read. Can’t wait to read Summer of ’69!! Thank you!!
Suzannah says
I came to recommend City of Girls also! My favorite book of the summer so far. A good amount of sexy time, but not graphic!
Robin Waibel says
I look forward to your book review posts every single month! I cannot tell you how many times I have recommended your blog just for the book reviews alone (although the provolone lasagna recipe has also spurred several recommendations!).
Amy says
I agree with your comment. Love the book reviews!
Beth says
I’ve recently discovered Charles Martin – LOVE all of the books I’ve read of his (5 so far!)!!
Deana Lewis says
Beth, Charles Martin is one of my top three authors!!! So good 🙂
Anna says
Please read The Dream Daughter by Diane chamberlain!
Sara says
I just finished The Dream Daughter!
Tracey R. says
I just read The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren and it was adorable! Loved it! I was trying to decide which of her books to grab next and I guess it’ll be Half Night Stand now!
Jessica says
I’ve read or have all but one of these books (except for Kelly Rimmer’s Book!), and they’re so good. A good 3-book series that I read a while ago and LOVED was the Dixie series by Lisa Patton. A cute, southern-set series. So good, I haven’t forgotten the story in the years since I’ve read them 🙂
Natalie Alvarado says
Love and Other Words and Unhoneymooners
Alexis Jalovick says
I’ve read five out of seven books in your review this month so clearly we share the same taste! Ha! I have read the past five or six Christina Lauren books and I loved them all. The Unhoneymooners was one of my faves…it’s just a fun summer read with such likable characters!! I also recently read a thriller called The Last Time I Lied and it was one of the few books in a long time that kept me guessing! I loved it!!
Rebecca N says
The beautiful series by Christina Lauren is great & probably what they are most known for. All their books are rated R FYI, but they are all cute/funny/romantic/entertaining etc. Love & other words was also really good and so was the unhoneymooners. Have pretty much loved all their books!!
Also – I feel like I have commented this several times, but you have got to read the bronze horseman series!!!! it is sooo good. seriously. so. good. I am going to keep suggesting until it happens 🙂
Letters to Molly & The Birthday List (from the maysen jar series by Devney Perry) are two other really good summer reads I just finished that would be great for july!
Elz says
I just finished “The Other Woman” and, if you haven’t read it, I think you will like it.
Angie G says
I love that Kristi Woodson Harvey series, it reminds me of the summer equivalent to Winter Street series of Christmas/winter time! I’ve got to get book three to finish it up.
Sarah says
Love and Other Words was sooooo good!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams says
Good to know about Summer of 69!! I was apprehensive to jump on it. I’m reading All The Light We Cannot See (WWII set) and it’s so interesting so I’ll have to put The Things We Cannot Say down!
Amanda @ Cupcake N Dreams
Megan says
I love Christina Lauren so much. The Unhoneymooners is their most recent release and is so cute, but my favorite Christina Lauren book is Love and Other Words. I recommend it to everyone!
Nichole Walden says
You always have the BEST book recommendations! Currently halfway through Daisy Jones & The Six and loving it! I just added The Things We Cannot Say and Summer of ‘69 to my Amazon cart. I can’t wait to read Elin’s new book in Nantucket as we head there for the All-Star break!
Amanda says
The Unhoneymooners and Love and other Words were by absolute favorites by Christina Lauren!!!
Marcela says
Which books did you NOT like by Erin Hilderbrand? Making sure to avoid those, ha
Mix and Match Mama says
Her newest series that takes place in St. John and then the one that came out last summer…what was that called??? I can’t remember???
Emily says
Have you read “The Tattoist of Auschwitz”? Incredible true story. I read it in less than 24 hours.
Mix and Match Mama says
One of my very favorite books so far this year!!!
Tracy Doubts says
I am in agreement with Sarah P. Kristy Woodson Harvey’s book “Dear Carolina” and “Lies and Other Acts of Love” are both good reads. I expect you will enjoy both of them. Sarah P. is also correct about Kristy, if you ever get a chance to meet her she is lovely!!
Beth says
That is one of my least favorite books by Christina Lauren but I didn’t hate it. I LOVED Love and Other Words, Unhoneymooners, and Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating. So good!!!!
Nora says
Just finished City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert.
Melody Collins says
I have been reading a ton too! Reading (it’s old) What Alice Forgot! but read, the Mother in Law, The last time I saw you…Looking for summer of 69…and I loved one Day in December – after seeing everyone’s reviews…thank you everyone!
Leigh says
Melody – What Alice Forgot is one of my all time favorites!!! I always try to get people who say they don’t have time to read to start with it. It is also a GREAT audio book!
Meredith says
Lilac Girls and Lost Roses both by Martha Hall Kelly. The original novel followed by a prequel..both based on true stories and real life events of WWII and WWI. Highly recommend!
Elizabeth says
Yayyy you finally read Christina Lauren! I loved Love and Other Words, but it is not as quirky as some of her others…it is really good though just a different feel! I have loved all of her books so it is hard to choose! I loved Josh and Hazels guide to not dating, and just finished The Unhoneymooners and it was cute too!
Lynelle says
Read Mrs. Everything by Jennifer Weiner! Have you read any of her books? She always writes smart and strong female characters.
KT says
Just read Beyond the Point by Claire Gibson. It’s about three female friends at West Point and goes through their friendship over the post 9/11 years. So, so good! Probably my favorite I’ve read in 2019!!
Nikki says
Great review! Please read Charles Martin! They are beautifully written and all SOOO good!
Liz says
Just finished The Cactus by Sarah Haywood. I liked it. It reminded me of Eleanor Oliphant. I love book review day! I have my library app open. Summer reading is the best.
Barbara Anne says
I’ll echo other comments by recommending Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren…definitely R-rated but sooo good!!! In my opinion, It has a slight Swear on this Life feel so since you loved that one, I think you’ll love this one too! Thanks for all the recommendations!
Dena says
I’ve been looking forward to this post for at least a week! Well, actually since the last book review because it’s summer and I have lots of time to read! Love all these recommendations and love seeing that Sally Hepworth popped on here (LOVED The Mother in Law!). Thanks so much Shay!!
Lindsay says
I have not read “The Bride Test” but I have read “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang and it was about a woman on the autism spectrum and a guy she met online. I thought it was cute and I read it quickly, but I would describe it the same way you described “The Bride Test” – there was maybe something missing and it could have had more of a plot. Hope that helps 🙂
Mikaela says
I recommend “The Kissing Quotient” over the “The Bride Test” any day, just because it has more substance! However, just an FYI, the “The Bride Test” is partially based off of Hoang’s life, while “The Kissing Quotient” is based on what kind of autism she has. I hope you read “The Kissing Quotient,” not just because it’s a great chick-lit but I love the representation even more.
Jaren says
I’m so excited you read the Peachtree Bluff series!! Those are being passed around my circle of friends and everyone loved them on our girls beach trip this year!! We call them the Southern Sisters books!
Okay, so I am definitely going to get Things We Cannot Say, because I love books in that time period that go back and forth. If you liked that one, please read The Alice Network!!! Oh.my.gosh…I’ll never forget that book!
Also, have your read any Kate Morton books? They take me forever to read, but they are so rich with characters lives that span different time periods and a little mystery to solve. I read The Lake House last summer and now I’m reading The Forgotten Garden.
Kelly M Sites says
Hi Jaren-
If you like WW2 books then I highly suggest: The Shoemaker’s Wife, Boy on a Wooden Box, and The Secrets of a Charmed Life.
Leigh says
Jaren, you have to read The House at Riverton by KM. It’s my favorite of hers!
Kristin Cagle says
Christina Lauren books are the best! Great reads period, but especially after finishing a really heavy read. Love and Other Words was my first one, but Josh and Hazel, The Unhoneymooners, Roomies, Dating You Hating You…You can’t go wrong!
Brooke says
Yay!!!! Just ordered all of these!!!! I just finished Pachinko. AMAZING. Probably my favorite to date. Have you read it? If not, it’s a MUST. Have a great day!
Carrie says
The Peachtree Bluff series is really one of my favorite series ever (I LOVE a series!)! I loved it so much! So glad you recommended it! I really think I read all 3 of them in 5 day ?
Kristy Harvey says
Oh my word! Thank you so much!! That absolutely makes my day! xoxo
Jantzen says
I just got back from the beach, and Meet Cute was my favorite read of the week! Also took Swear on This Life based on your rec and loved it, too! Recently read Waiting for Tom Hanks, which referenced lots of chick flick movies — it doesn’t make my top five, but it was definitely worth the read! And recently started The Royal Treatment series by Melanie Summers — just finished the first book and the best way I can describe it is a somewhat R-rated version of a Hallmark movie.
Tara says
I agree with you about needing a little more from The Bride Test, but it was a cute read overall. I agree with the other commenters that Love and Other Words by Christina Lauren is a good read. Also, someone suggested Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah, and I totally second that. It was a great story!
Amy K says
Have you read any of Jenna Bush Hager’s “Read with a Jenna” Book Club books yet? Read them all but my favorites were A Woman is No Man by newcomer Etaf Rum – could not put it down! It’s about 3 generations of Palestinian women in America – so, so good! And I also loved Searching for Sylvia Lee, a mystery by Jean Kwok – another one I couldn’t put down! Was actually on the Plaza of the Today Show yesterday and got a copy of her July pick – Eevie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes. Supposed to be a rom-com. Beyond excited to see the Today Show hosts live on the Plaza AND get a copy of the new book!
Abby says
I love Christina Lauren books. Roomies is probably my favorite.
Karen says
I picked up Summer Hours at Costco thinking it would be a good beach read – it was and so much more . I loved it!
Summer Hours by Amy Mason Doan
Kristi says
You MUST read “The Lucky Few” or “Scoot Over and Make Some Room” by Heather Avis. They are both written by a mama who has adopted three kids, two of whom have Down syndrome. She tells her story in her first book, and the second is more about how to make space for people in our lives who are different from us. They both have made me laugh, made me cry, and I’ve flown through BOTH of them. You will love both of them!!!
Sheaffer Sims says
I’ve got nothin. The covers are cute.
Mix and Match Mama says
Hahahahaha!
Vickie says
I always scan comments looking for your replies!! ?
Julie says
I love your book review days! And because of your recommendation, I’m now reading on my new Kindle! I think you’d really like ‘The First Mistake’/Sandie Jones. It is suspense/thriller and you will fly through the pages! Gripping story reminiscent of Big Little Lies. I’m excited to read “You’ve Been Volunteered” this summer, a sequel to Class Mom-yay! Also on my list is “The Bookish Life of Nina Hill” because I love Abbi Waxman who wrote ‘Other People’s Houses.’ I was curious but nervous about ‘Summer of 69’ so I thought, I’ll wait for Shay’s review! :). So thank you for giving it the green light, I’m excited to read it now. Two of my three kids are at overnight camp this summer (WAAAAHHH!) so on the upside, I am looking forward to READING! Enjoy summer!
Jen says
When you’re in the mood for a thriller again, you have to read The Hunting Party by Lucy Foley and The Favorite Daughter by Kaira Rouda! I follow your book reviews closely, and often happen to have read/enjoyed many of the same books simultaneously, so I’m thinking you will love those!
Ashlee Brown says
Christina Lauren is great! I just recently discovered them. I loved Josh and Hazel’s Guide to Not Dating and the Unhoneymooners. love and Other Words is also great, although it’s a little more serious.
Carly says
Definitely recommend The Unhoneymooners next! I was SO pleasantly surprised at how not graphic it was compared to some of Christina Lauren’s other books! I also like Josh and Hazel’s Guide To Not Dating by them!!
I read The Kiss Quotient by Hoang and felt the same way you did so I haven’t tried The Bride Test yet. Not sure that I will now…
Some recent faves include The Flatshare, Field Notes on Love, The Silent Patient and The Overdue Life of Amy Byler. I also recommend Kara Isaac of you’re looking for cute, CLEAN romance as she writes Christian rom-com.
I am excited to add some of these to my Library holds!
Jessica C. says
Thanks for the new suggestions! I was starting to get low on books to read! You make it so easy to pick!!
My book club just read The Unhoneymooners and liked it. It was a quick read and it made us laugh. The Kiss Quotient is the other book by Helen Hoang. It was rated R as well. The main character is on the autism spectrum so it’s hard for her to be intimate and she hires a man to help. It was predictable but such a good read I finished the book in a day because I couldn’t put it down.
Meaghan P says
Love and Other Words is my favorite Christina Lauren book. Definitely read that one next. So so good. Roomies is also cute and fun. I’m currently reading The Queen of Hearts by Kimmery Martin. You should check it out. I can’t get a full review yet, but I think you would like it!
Lindsey says
You should check out The One That Got Away by Bethany Chase. It was SO GOOD! It read like a romantic comedy (would make a great movie actually!), but it had more depth than a typical chick-lit beach read. I bet you’d love it!
Rosie says
Such a great list!! Thank you. I’ve added a few to my wish list 🙂
Morgan says
Would you consider doing a chick lit book list for ones not rated R? Love the booklists each month!
Mix and Match Mama says
I just never know until I dive in! Those Peachtree books are not R!
Marika S says
You must read The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren!! I was laughing out loud. Also a great summer read. I can’t wait to read Summer of ‘69!
Belinda says
Can’t wait to try some of these books! I love to read but usually only read on vacation. I am trying to change that. I just read The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory in less than a week and have already ordered her next one, The Proposal. Easy, fun read. Definitely recommend!
Kelly says
The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren!! Loved it!!
Sami Moss says
My best book this month was Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey. Easy, adorable and an ode to all the loveable rom-coms. I read it in a day!
Rachel says
I just recently finished Josh and Hazels Guide to Not Dating by Christina Lauren and it was SO cute! Definitely going to pick up My Favorite Half Night Stand next. I’d also recommend I’ve Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella if you haven’t read it yet!
Narci says
Eek!!!! My favorite post you do, and this one was so good! I have the last Peachtree book and another Christina Lauren book on my kindle for the beach! 🙂
Kathy says
Shay, based on your recent travels, have you watched The Durrels of Corfu on PBS? The series is based on a non-fiction book written by a family member. They are quirky, funny and endearing. Plus, the scenery in Corfu is breathtaking. I highly recommend it.
Jill says
I read The Things we Cannot Say as well after seeing Sally recommend it to you and WOW. I loved this book sooooo much too. I agree that it will likely be one of my top books of the year. It pulled on my heart in the best possible way! I will recommend it again and again!
Kim says
Have you read anything by Karen White? I think you would really like her books. Dreams of Falling is her most recent but I haven’t found one that I didn’t like. She also collaborated with Beatriz Williams on The Glass Ocean and The Forgotten Room which are excellent. I highly recommend The Memory House by Rachel Hauck which is a faith based romantic fiction novel and Park Avenue Summer.
Laura Paredes says
You should read California Girls by Susan Mallery. I’m loving it. and I loved the Peachtree Bluff series as well — it was probably my favorite so far.
CF says
I have read “The Kiss Quotient” by Helen Hoang and it was okay. It was cute and a quick read, but not my favorite. Also rate R for sure, but if you want to read something else by her it was a decent book!
Casey F. says
I feel like you would enjoy “Summer at Tiffany” which is a memoir by Marjory Hart!! It is a memoir that reads like chick-lit. It is wonderfully written book that I read a few years ago. It will be a quick one to read!
Christy says
Hi Shay,
Thanks for your reviews! I noticed you haven’t posted on good reads in a while. Do you plan to post your books there anymore?
Mix and Match Mama says
Dang it! Why do I always forget this?!?! Sorry, Christy!
Maria says
Ask Again, Yes by Mary Beth Keane was my favorite read this past month!
Ashley says
I just started the “Everything” series written by Kerry Lonsdale. I just finished Everything We Keep and now I need to read Everything We Left Behind ASAP.
Also, read The Girl in Ice this month and it was pretty good too! It was part of a series but an interesting serial killer crime thriller.
The next book I am reading is Pieces of Her. They are turning this into a Netflix movie and so I want to watch it before that comes out.
Nicole says
I always search for Sheaffers comment on this post lol.
I loved the Tattoist of Auschwitz and never would have picked it up if you hadn’t suggested it. I’ve passed it on and had some great conversations about it.
Heather says
Love love loved Summer of 69!!!! Just finished it last night and thought it was great!! About to start The Silent Patient next!
Kari Cox says
Shay, I always love your recommendations, and have read and loved quite a few of yours, but have never recommended one to you until today: Waiting for Tom Hanks by Kerry Winfrey.
It is really cute; easy-to-read and laugh-out-loud funny, 2 of my fave attributes of a book! Try it, I think you’ll enjoy it! Have a Blessed day! 🙂
Katie Ault says
Just finished The Things we Cannot say….it was so good! Another one you might like is The Life She was Given By Ellen Marie Wiseman.
Kerri says
Current Read: The Islanders, by Meg Mitchell Moore, takes place on another New England Island, Block Island off of Newport. IT’s fun so far….it caught my eye as on the front it’s a rec from Elin Hildebrand herself saying this is a good read and a favorite author of her!
Amanda @ That Inspired Chick says
I just finished up The Summer of ’69 and it was so good!! The Elin we love is back with this one!! Now I’m adding all these others to my list. I plan to do some major reading next week on vacation!
That Inspired Chick
Mary Mathis says
I second Karen White. I am reading her Tradd Street series right now. They are great! I bet you would really like this series based in Charleston, SC.
Julie Bradford says
I am headed on vacay this week and I have the Peachtree Bluff series to read. I am so excited!!!!
Kristy Woodson Harvey says
I so hope you enjoy, Julie! Have a great vacation! xo Kristy
Leigh says
I’m with you about all opinions of EH books and have been so nervous to read Summer of 69 b/c of the last couple! (The Christmas series is great for audio!) Glad to hear I can go forth with this one. Christina Lauren – Half Night Stand is my favorite of hers, but her other stand alones are really cute. The other “series” books she has are not great and FAR past R. Beware! I stopped after the 1st one. My fave books this summer are both new releases – Dear Wife by Kimberle Belle (so suspenseful and twisty, but also hopeful) and Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes (love the Maine setting and the main characters!) Read them!
Tanya says
I just put The Things We Cannot Say on my library hold, and I can’t wait to read Southern Side of Paradise. Thanks for all the recommendations. My top pick for your next read is THE GOWN. So good! You can see all my recent reads here: Tanya – The Other Side of the Road
Kristy Woodson Harvey says
Thank you so much, Tanya! I hope you enjoy The Southern Side of Paradise ?
Kristy Woodson Harvey says
Shay, you are amazing!! Thank you SO MUCH for all the book love. I can’t tell you how much it means to me! I’m so excited you enjoyed the Peachtree Bluff Series! xoxo Kristy
Mix and Match Mama says
Kristy, they are so CUTE!!! The PERFECT summer reads! I cannot wait to jump into the next one!!! xo
Kim says
I just finished Natalie Tan’s Book of Luck and Fortune. It was a little deeper than what I was expecting and pretty good. I also really enjoyed the book The Witch’s Kind. That book is so hard to describe, it really had a little bit of everything in it and built up the tension so well.
Becca Buncie says
I’m a big fan of Christina Lauren. Josh & Hazel and the Unhoneymooners are just fun light reads. Love & Other Words is my favorite! Flew through it in one night!
Melissa Meckley says
I just finished Sunset Beach by Mary Kay Andrews and loved it.
Francie says
I just finished Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng. It may be my favorite book of the year. After I finished it, I needed about a week before I could start another book. I just wanted the characters to remain in my head for a while longer.
Jodie says
Love your book recommendations! I just finished How Not to Die Alone by Richard Roper. Since you liked Eleanor Oliphant, it is similar but with a male main character. I really liked it!
Stephanie says
Is there any way to link each book to Good Reads? Would so help when trying to flag books as want to read and don’t have to toggle back and forth. #firstworldproblems ??♀️
Mix and Match Mama says
I used to be so much better at that…I will realllllly try in August!
Kaitlyn says
I used to always skip your monthly book review blog posts… never thought I needed them. Luckily once I read one by accident and now it’s my favorite part of the month!! Totally got me back into reading and for that I’m grateful! I have never read Elin Hilderbrand so she’s on my list for this summer but a suggestion for you is little fires everywhere—soon to be a tv show with Reece Witherspoon. I would love to hear what you think!
Mix and Match Mama says
You will LOVE Hilderbrand books!!
Ellie says
Eek I love all the chick-lit this month! Every single one of these is on my TBR. I love Christina Lauren… I haven’t read My Favorite Half Night stand yet, but Roomies is one of my very favorite books of all time and The Unhoneymooners is great as well! I’m glad to hear you liked Summer of 69! I have it coming in my BOTM box this month. xoxo
Cathy says
The Idea of You by Robinne Lee is so fantastic and it is getting quite a following on social media. It’s about a 40 yo divorced mother who takes her 12yo to a boy band concert meet up and she and the 20yo guy singer fall for each other. It’s an amazing love story and a interesting and realistic look into superstardom. It is R rated so be aware but you can skim the Rrated parts and still enjoy the story. Also, I just finished Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes and it was really good. Love your book reviews; thanks for writing them each month.
Julie says
Shay, have you read any of K.A. Tucker’s books? She usually has a new book come out every August and I devour it on our annual beach trip! The Simple Wild, Until it Fades, Burying Water Series, Ten Tiny Breath Series are all her titles. She is a wonderful story teller and I am always immediately drawn into her books and can’t put them down!
PS. I just finished Summer of ‘69 and loved it!!
Courtney Tritten says
You need to read The Loss Between Us by Brooke McBride. The book is absolutely incredible! Brooke is an amazing writer from right here in Missouri (I thought you would enjoy that connection). Read it and I promise you won’t be disappointed!!
Brittany S says
Have you read any of Jane Green’s books? I just read her newest one, The Friends We Keep, and really enjoyed it! I also love some of her older stuff!
Ana Luxton says
I loved loved loved The Things We Cannot Say as well! If you’re a fan of WW2 fiction, try anything by Pam Jenoff. Also, if you want more Kelly Rimmer, she has another fantastic book called Before I Let You Go. It deals with custody laws around opioid addicted mothers. It’s emotional and heartbreaking but so so good!
Elspeth says
These are all great suggestions. I would definitely recommend, Before We Were Strangers by Renee Carlino, SO good!!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Lena W says
LOVE AND OTHER WORDS by Christina Lauren was one of my favorite books, I may have sobbed a bit during it! It is a must read and I think you’ll like it even more than My Favorite Half Night Stand. Thanks for all the recommendations as always! Now is when I fill up my library list! 🙂
Lena W says
LOVE AND OTHER WORDS by Christina Lauren was one of my favorite books, I may have sobbed a bit during it! It is a must read and I think you’ll like it even more than My Favorite Half Night Stand. Also, another recent one I’ve read and loved (and ugly cried) was The Light We Lost by Jill Santopolo. Thanks for all the recommendations as always! Now is when I fill up my library list! 🙂
Kim says
What is your favorite Hilderbrand novel? I recently can’t put anything down by Ruth Ware….so good!
Mix and Match Mama says
That’s so hard. I always go back to The Identicals, so probably that one (Blue Bistro is good too!).
Carol C says
I love your book posts!
I love Christina Lauren. Her (well, THEIR) books are great! I just read the Un-Honeymooners, and it was cute. Roomies was also a good one. My favorite is Love and Other Words. Oh, my! I listened to that on my commute, and I actually listed to it TWICE. I also read The Bride Test and enjoyed it. I think you would have liked it more if you had read Hong’s first book: The Kiss Quotient. The characters from The Bride Test are introduced int he first book.
Along these same lines, if you haven’t already read it, I HIGHLY recommend The Hating Game by Sally Thorne. AH-MA-ZING. This was her debut novel. I enjoyed her second book, but the first one was a true keeper for me! I listened to it a second time when I was in a dry spell with my reading.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!!! I loved The Hating Game! It is so cute!!!
M Knapp says
Have you read any of the Outlander books by Diana Gabaldon? Or watch the show on STARZ? I’m currently obsessed with it.
Sharon says
I’m currently reading “She Was the Quiet One,” by Michelle Campbell— and it’s sooo good! Suspense Thor drama/thriller about sisters at a boarding school. I can’t remember if you originally recommended it, or if it was someone else.
Elin Hilderbrand is also my favorite author— can’t wait to read Summer of 69– at hold for me at our library. And I requested they preorder her next book when it comes out (October 2019). I’m about to read that trilogy you recommended too. Thanks! 🙂
Mrs B says
Shay, thank you for always warning us of the R rated ones.
Kristal Strong says
Over the past 2-3 weeks, I have thoroughly enjoyed three books from the author Sarah Joi. I read Always, The Violets of March and Blackberry Winter. If you haven’t checked her out yet, I highly recommend you do!
Mel Peters says
Just finished The Overdue Life of Amy Byler and thought it was cute.
Also Lilac Girls is also really good.
Dana says
Can’t wait to read Summer of ‘69! Love me some Elin H. Books! I recommend you read The Gown…so so good! I think you would love it! Love all your recs…fave post of the month always!!
Jennifer S. says
I look forward to your book review each month SO much!!! I would highly recommend Charles Martin’s books. I’ve only read two, but they were both wonderful! I have Summer of ‘69 downloaded and waiting on me. I just started my first Mary Alice Monroe book, The Beach House.
Lisa Sipe says
I love your book reviews and am grateful for the ratings! Thank you! As a mother of 12 and Grandmother of 21, (yes, so blessed), I love to read but try very hard to stick to a “ Christian rating” and appreciate everyone’s honesty and comments!
Laura says
Christina Lauren’s Love and Other Words was good!
Brandi says
I just read The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary in one day! It was so cute and fun, and made me literally laugh out loud multiple times. Loved it!
DONELLA G DULWORTH says
I read all of the Peach tree series this week, by Kristy Woodson Harvey, I now have another favorite author!
Nanxi says
I really liked Christina Lauren’s Josh and Hazels Guide to Not Dating. The main male character is Asian, which isn’t super common in chick lit, and was nice to have positive Asian representation in mainstream novels. I also really like Penny Reid’s books! You can start with Neanderthal Seeks Human (first book in the Knitting in the City series, about a group of close female friends) – she wrote this book for a friend in exchange for a steak dinner 🙂
Lisa Sipe says
Just curious, but can you or anyone else give a rating on the Peachtree Bluff series?
Mix and Match Mama says
I would say PG 13! Maybe even not quite that 😉 .
Katherine says
Definitely read Christina Lauren’s “josh and hazel’s guide to not dating.” It’s so fun – the lead female is quirky and fun, while the male lead is adorable and endearing. It’s got some R-rated content but not overwhelmingly. Highly recommend.
DG says
Have you read, “Where is Luis Velez? ” It is a good pool, beach day read. It is written by the author who wrote Pay It Forward. I enjoyed the human connection and liked it so much, sent it to my sister to read! And I want to say, I think I picked it up from one of your comments—you receive great recommendations!
Brea says
I have never been a reader and just have read when I’ve had to, but recently I have had some downtime and wanting to take up reading. Any book that you would recommend starting with? So many good ones you have recommended but wasn’t sure where to start.
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhh! Okay, I think you should start with Summer of 69. She’s my favorite author, it’s a great summer read and I loved it!
Brea says
Ordering it now! Thanks so much!
Tiffany says
As per your suggestion, I just finished The Things We Cannot Say. It the best book I’ve read in a long time. I LOVED it! I always enjoy your monthly book posts & have read lots of great books of your list. Think this might be my favorite one you’ve matched me with. Will be telling everyone about it! Thank you!
Mix and Match Mama says
Oh my gosh! I would read it again!!! I loved it!
Lois Jenison says
Have you read Becoming Mrs Lewis?! So good!! Historical fiction about the wife of CS Lewis