Woohoo!!!
It’s like the best kind of book day ever…it’s BEACHY BOOK DAY!
Who doesn’t love a good beach read?!
You know me, I could read “beach books” all day, every day, all year long.
For most of the year, I try to diversify my monthly readings a bit, but this month, I went all in for the chick lit/read by the pool, on a plane, near the beach kind of rom-com books.
The beachier, the better 🙂 .
I read FIVE “beach books” that will each make you dream of sunny days, sandy toes and warm water.
I read TWO books that were highly recommended by you, a super girly non-fiction book and two books set in Nantucket (one of which by my VERY favorite author!).
It was a great month of book reading. I hope you find the time (and the book!) to read this next month too!
I kicked off June with the most recommended book by you ladies…Float Plan.
Oh my word…I loved it.
This cute little chick lit book is about a woman who sets off from Florida to sail down to the Caribbean on her boyfriend’s boat right after he dies. Sounds deep…is actually super cute and adorable. I could not put this one down and was sad when it was over. She, of course, meets a cute sailor who helps her navigate the seas and get her from one island to the next. There is a bit of drama, some delicious references to food, so many fun nautical tidbits and lots and lots of cuteness. I read a ton of “girl meets boy” kind of chick-lit that are adorable but forgettable but I really think this one stands out as one I’ll remember forever. If you’re looking for a light (a little rated-R) romantic comedy about new beginnings, moving on, finding love and learning how to sail, this is your book. This one totally lived up to all the hype!
The second book I read this month is probably the second most talked about book right now…People We Meet on Vacation.
I feel like every single person who told me to read Float Plan told me to read this one. The only problem? I didn’t love it.
Agh!
I hate when that happens!
Okay, um, here’s the deal. I might have liked this one more if I hadn’t have read it right after the first adorable book. I was on a “cute little books about people traveling are the BEST” high, but then I read this one and was like “eh, that was okay”. This is a fictional tale about two people who met years ago and every year take a trip together. Sounds cute, I found it blah. First of all, I don’t know why it’s called “People We Meet On Vacation” because they really didn’t meet anyone. They spend most of the time alone together wrapped up in their own life’s turmoil. They also didn’t go anywhere amazing on vacation, so I couldn’t lose myself in that either. They were hot and sweaty in a motel without a/c…arguing…that’s not what I’m looking for. I would say this one is also rated R, and no, it’s not terrible, but it just really fell flat for me after the previous book. I didn’t love the main character and found her love interest rather boring. This one just didn’t do it for me. Anyone else? Am I alone here? I highly recommend the first one, I don’t really recommend this one.
I do, however, highly recommend this one…
…I have absolutely loved reading Thirty Chic Days over the last month!
So, we all know how I love reading those cute little books about French life and finding your inner-French girl in every day life. I’m obsessed with those and have read all of them. Well, Amazon knows that about me and suggested I read this one, so I bought it (in paperback which I never do!) and set it next to my quiet time area so that each morning, after reading my Bible, I could read one chapter…for 30 days! I just loved it! In fact, I’m sad now that it’s over. Here’s the deal, I don’t typically read self-help books, but this would be my version of self-help (a light and frivolous version!). The author shares thirty little ways you can be “chic” every day from foods to eat (or not eat!), how to dress, do your hair and makeup, how to present yourself, how to write thank you notes, respond kindly to unpleasant people, give gifts, how to select underwear that makes you feel confident…I’m telling you, she covers everything! I just found each little chapter happy, light and inspiring. If you’re looking for very easy and practical ways to create little moments in your daily life, grab this book. It was just happy and motivating…very girly and filled with little bits of wisdom you might receive from your grandmother. I loved it.
Speaking of love…
…my very favorite author wrote my fourth book this month…Golden Girl.
I am giving Elin Hilderbrand’s newest book a 7 out of 10.
If anyone else would have written it, I would have given it a three.
Eeeeeeeks.
Elinnnnnnn…why did you do it to me?!
Agh!
Before I even read this book, two of my friends told me that they read it and thought I would not like it.
They were right.
The main character is a spirit.
Need I say more?
A spirit.
I don’t do spirits even in scary books, so I really don’t do spirits in light, beachy books based on Nantucket!
No one is asking my opinion, but if they were, I would say that the wheel doesn’t need to be reinvented. If you’re known for light, beachy books based in Nantucket, please rinse and repeat. I don’t want to open chapter one, page one and find out that the main character is dead and a spirit. If it had been any other author, I would have probably quit the book, but this is my very favorite author, so I read it. Now, the chapters about said spirit’s family were adorable and I really loved them, but the chapters about the spirit hovering above annoyed me. I know, I know…you all probably loved it and I’m in the wrong here, but when I pick up a Elin Hilderband book I expect lobster references, beachy vibes, lots of family stuff, a little romance and for the main character to be alive. (Needless to say, I’m a little bitter over this one…I waited all year long for this book to come out!)
I’m giving it a 7 based on loving her so much and the fact that the chapters not involving the spirit checked all of my chick-lit boxes.
(But seriously, I didn’t love it.)
Now, here’s the deal, Elin Hilderbrand and Nancy Thayer both write books set on Nantucket and they’re always both veryyyyyyy similar and come out at the same time each year. I always read both and always love Nancy’s but think Elin’s are a wee bit better…until this year…
…the fifth book I read this month was Family Reunion by Nancy Thayer, and I LOVED IT!!
Yes, yes, yes!
This book checked all of my boxes!
This is a light and happy book about three generations of women spending their summer on Nantucket. It’s mostly about the grandmother and granddaughter but the daughter is in there as well. They’re all going through huge changes in their lives (just graduated from college, empty-nester, newly widowed) and they’re navigating the rough waters in their own ways. This book made me want to go to Nantucket. This book made me want to eat peaches and mussels. This book made me want to get up early and take a walk on the beach. This is a fictional tale that I was sucked into immediately. Now, there’s a bit of Hallmarky-ness to it (I made up that word), but that’s what I’m looking for this time of year. I want light, happy, a little predictable and easy to read. I was excited every time I picked this book up!
Whew!
So, there you have it!
Five books this month!
Now, please tell me WHAT SHOULD I READ IN JULY?! I would still love more beachy books!!! If you have any suggestions, please let me know! If you’re into beach books too, make sure you go back and read my May Book Review too! I have some in there as well!
Also, don’t forget, I keep a running list of every book I’ve read in 2021 right 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 2019 (all 54 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2020 (all 54 of them), click here.
Happy Monday, friends!!! I can’t wait to read your recs!!
Erika Slaughter says
I’m positive there is not a single beach read on my kindle but I need to change that after this post!
Jessica Siegel says
The Stars are Fire by Anita Shreve!
Stephanie Parisotto says
Road trip although not a beachy read is still a cute romcom! Malibu rising is a fantastic read as well!
Elspeth says
I’m reading the Bookstore on the Beach which is very good! And one of my friends just recommended the people you meet on vacation! Too funny!! I love your book review days!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Lauren says
Have you read Malibu Rising? I loved it! Also, if you haven’t read Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay, it’s one of my favorites! Heavier than a “beach read”, but it’s fab!
Kara says
I think you would like “Roommate” by Sariah Wilson. Really fun and sweet!
Rosa says
Golden Girl is on my nightstand to read and currently reading Family Reunion. Did you see where Elian Hilderbrand is retiring in 2024!?
Mix and Match Mama says
I follow her on IG but I must have missed that announcement!
Erin Hill says
Nooooooo!!!!!! That is the worst news! I missed that announcement!
Josie says
Have you read the Kristy Harvey peach tree series? Set in a Georgia Beach. 3 books, each told from The viewpoint of a different sister.
Mix and Match Mama says
YES!! Those are each adorable!!!
Kate Lynn says
Did you enjoy or get the connection to When Harry Met Sally in People We Meet on Vacation? I think her explanation of that at the end makes sense with the character and plot development.
I really enjoyed Poppy and Alex (much more than January and Gus from Beach Read) and totally was rooting for them in the end. However, I found the plot more interesting in Beach Read.
I really enjoyed Call Your Daughter Home, Malibu Rising, Finlay Donovan is Killing it, and The Social Graces this month.
Mix and Match Mama says
I think my biggest complaint was that I found both characters bland. I wasn’t really rooting for either of them, so couple that with the dull vacation settings and it just didn’t do it for me. I do wonder if I would have enjoyed it a bit more had I not just come off of Float Plan?
Meghan Webb says
I waited all year for Golden Girl too and I wanted to like it, but just didn’t love it! And now we wait a whole year for the next….
Andrea says
I really loved Float Plan! I do think it’s important to mention that both main characters are dealing with some pretty heavy things, including suicide.
TB says
Good morning!! Book day is the BEST day!!! Thank you for making a Monday exciting!!
I just started Seabreeze Inn by Jan Moran because I too was looking for another beach-read. There are several books in the series, but so far it’s good!!
Pamela Geltz says
I randomly picked up Pack Up the Moon by Kristan Higgins and I loved it so much. I’m not sure if it was because of losing my mom and seeing parallels with how we deal with grief. Or if it was just a really fantastic, incredibly well-written book. I highly recommend.
Michelle says
Read The Paris Library!
Lisa De says
Malibu Rising is so so good!??♀️
Alysha Rooks says
Oh my goodness, how funny, I just read golden girl ad LOVED it. But, like you, Elin is my favorite and can do no wrong haha
Kelly Nagy says
Hi! I’m sure you’ve read them, but the Beach Plum Cove series? Set in Nanutucjet, about a recently widowed woman who turns her home into a bed and breakfast, and tells the stories of her family and people they meet! Series of six and so light, great food references and make you want to book a table at Mimi’s right now! My sister and I loved them! C
MK says
Three books i read in June that weren’t too beachy but I highly recommend: Good Apple, The Midnight Library, and The Two Lives of Lydia Bird.
Mix and Match Mama says
I loved both Good Apple and Lydia Bird!!!
Kelly Nagy says
Hi! I’m sure you’ve read them, but the Beach Plum Cove series? Set in Nanutucjet, about a recently widowed woman who turns her home into a bed and breakfast, and tells the stories of her family and people they meet! Series of six and so light, great food references and make you want to book a table at Mimi’s right now! My sister and I loved them!
Sheaffer Sims says
You keep me posted and let me know when they turn one of these into a movie.
Mix and Match Mama says
I just lol!
Rayne says
Thanks for the recs! I agree on both Golden Girl and Family Reunion. I did enjoy People We Meet on Vacations, I love her banter and humor in her writing. Also for interest-the UK title of it was You and Me on Vacation. I like that one better!
A few I have enjoyed recently-The Last Thing He Told Me (thriller but not scary at all), Soulmate Equation(chick lit and funny), and Malibu Rising (my favorite of the three family saga,amazing on audible as Julia Whelan is the narrator)
Happy Summer Reading!!
Kristin says
You just ABSOLUTELY have to read Our Italian Summer by Jennifer Probst. If you love a book about an amazing vacation that you can totally get lost in- this is the one! It follows a grandmother, daughter and granddaughter as they head to Italy to reconnect. There are love interests, amazing food references and it just makes you want to get on a plane to Italy ASAP! Definitely check it out!
Katie says
I agree about Our Italian Summer. It is a vacation in a book and I have yet to find another book that has a similar feel.
Corinne says
The Invention of Wings! So beautifully written!
Lori says
I just finished The Girls With No Names. It was fantastic! Highly recommend adding that to your list!
Elizabeth Beasley says
I didn’t like People We Meet on Vacation either! It was just blah for me.
Amy Scott says
Totally agreed on Float Plan, People we Meet (did you read her Beach Reed – my favorite summer book of 2020!), and Golden Girl.
Where the grass is green and the girls are pretty by Lauren Weisberger is what I’m reading now and I’m enjoying it!
Diana says
I have read the following this past month:
The Invisible Husband of Frick Island
Normal People
In Five Years
The Last Thing He Told Me
Loved them all except Normal People.
Erin Smith says
Malibu rising. It’s R but I really liked it and it had great characters. This time next year was my favorite read this month- very Hallmarky and adorable.
Tamra says
Your comments about Golden Girl are part of the reason Elin is retiring from writing in 2024. She said in a recent interview she is running out of stories to tell and doesn’t want to rinse and repeat.
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwwww, well look at me hitting the nail on the head.
Holly says
Adding these to my list – thanks!
This month I read –
Her Last Flight by Beatriz Williams. So good. In my top 3 for the year.
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave. Quick read about a woman whose husband disappears and the relationship she forms with his daughter.
Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez. Funny, endearing story. Not my favorite book by this author, but still enjoyable.
The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware. Nanny for family in the middle of nowhere starts experiencing strange things. Couldn’t put this one down. Not super scary.
Men We Reaped by Jessmyn Ward. Life changing and so, so well written. A must read.
Soulmate Equation by Christina Lauren. Love this author and so far so good with this book!
Melissa Terry says
I was confused by the title of People We Meet as well…I decided it was the people they became on each of the trips maybe???
The Music of Bees was hands down my favorite book in June and is in the early running for favorite book of the year. It’s sooooooo good!
Sheila DeSpirito says
Ohhh, good to know, I’m on the holds list at my library for the book. I can’t wait to read it!
Jennifer Goodwin says
I haven’t read the Emily Henry book you read, but after reading her book Beach Read, I’ve discovered she isn’t the author for me. I didn’t like it and all of the characters were boring to me. I know that sounds harsh, but a book has to grab me from the get go and that one did not. Per your request, and some from people commenting, I’m halfway through my first Kristy Woodson Harvey book in the Peachtree Bluff series. I’m loving it so far! I read and loved Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid as well and loved it- have you read it yet? I’ve read others this month, but I’m drawing a blank. Thanks for always sharing! I added several of these to my list of books to read on Amazon!
Dana says
In complete agreement with you on Emily Henry…she is not for me! I did not like Beach Read (unpopular opinion) characters were very boring and I really struggled to even finish the book! I have the Peachtree Bluff series in my TBR group and will now add Malibu Rising after so many have recommended it!
Jennifer says
I loved People we meet on vacation!
I’m about to start Malibu Rising.
Tara Holcomb says
Beach Read! I loved it.
Kalen King says
My library does not stock Nancy Thayer audiobooks for some reason! Looks like I’m going to have to buy Family Reunion 🙂 I’m currently listening to The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth per your recommendation and loving it. Just finished Our Darkest Night by Jennifer Robson set in Italy in WW2…LOVED IT. Gave me “The Things We Cannot Say” by Kelly Rimmer vibes!
Marie D. says
I just finished Golden Girl and did not like it! And I am ok with spirits in books, but this one was just a fail for me. I also did not care for The People We Meet on Vacation. I am going to trust your opinion and download Family Reunion by Nancy Thayer on my new waterproof Kindle that I scored on Prime Day! Now what do I do with my old kindle???
Julie says
Hi Shay! I got the recommendation for ‘The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell” from your reader comments, and I LOVED IT. It might just be one of my favorite books of the year. It is about mother-son relationships, religion and what makes you who you are. But really, the way this mother was a champion to her son GOT me.
I LOVED LOVED LOVED the Guncle too! It falls in the category of summery fun reads. It sounds sad (an uncle takes care of his niece/nephew after their mother’s death) but it is VERY funny, adorable, and filled with references to glamorous California life. It’s a lot about sibling relationships too. The writing is excellent and the way the bachelor uncles bonds with the kids is amazing.
I am with you on Emily Henry! I wanted to like her first novel but just found it too long and slightly boring. And BOOOO about Elin’s new book! I am with you on not really being into a ghost narrator! EEEEK.
Thanks for your recommendations and have a great week!
Richelle Fahler says
Yes! I really enjoyed The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell! Highly recommend!
Amy Heinl says
I read the Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell also this month….probably one of the top 5 books I have ever read. Such a moving story and the love of his mom…..it was such a beautiful story of love between them
Shannon Voss says
Malibu Rising!
Also, I agree with you on People We Meet. I enjoyed her precious book, Beach Read, much more.
And glad to see your review on Golden Girl. I hesitated on the description and wanted to read your thoughts first.
Jennifer says
I read someone else’s review that said they just could NOT get past the extremely superficial characters in Family Reunion, so I sadly couldn’t get that out of my head when I started reading! I had to put it down after the first chapter because I was just so irritated by how excessively they seemed to be written. Does it get better?? Should I try again?
I actually really liked That Summer by Jennifer Weiner this month! I absolutely love that the plot was a surprise and that the author doesn’t give too much away in the synopsis. It all starts to come together about 100 pages in. I also love that it was cross-genre… starting off as contemporary fiction, veers into a beach read (with comfy, cozy, happy details to absorb), and definitely ends up back in contemporary fiction. The food descriptions were to die for! It had very well-developed characters and amazing dialogue! Beliefs were definitely an integral part of the book, but the best part of fiction is you can simply appreciate how well it’s done. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Read Golden Girl first and then you’ll love Thayer’s new book 😉 .
Carly says
Am I going to ruin your Monday? Probably. Elin has said she is retiring in 2024 and jabs THREE NANTUCKET BOOKS LEFT!! And the next one sounds like there is a ghost in it too….
Christina says
I just got back from Nantucket and it was magical! I could have bought every beach read that Mitchell’s had in store! Have you read Once In A Blue Moon or The Honey Don’t List by Christina Lauren? I read them so quickly! I could not put them down!
Callie says
I also just read People We Meet on Vacation and did not love it. It was a struggle for me to get through. However, I have moved on and am reading The Restoration of Celia Fairchild and am really enjoying it! It’s about a thirty something advice columnist that moves back to Charleston after living in New York. She is fixing up her aunt’s old house in hopes of adopting a baby. I am loving all the characters!
Anna says
I loved that book – it was so sweet!!
Katie Strand says
Man I should have wait one more day before loading up my kindle. I literally just downloaded The People We Meet on Vacation last night. Now I’m not as excited to read it. Buying The Float Plan now :).
Amanda Wilson says
You need to read North or Normal!!! You will love it! Thanks for the book ideas! Today is the kids last day of school finally!! Softball, Soccer, Gymnastics, and danced wrapped up for the year this weekend! Now it’s beach and book time!! Wahoooooo!!!!
Susan says
Completely agree on The People We on Vacation!! I was reading this on the beach and was really bored. I kept hoping they would each meet new people on a vacation and have the book be about the new people. Not a great beach read at all!
Sally Reyna says
I loved Same Beach, Next Year by Dorothea Benton Frank. Love your book reviews!!
BB says
THANK YOU so much for validating my opinion on GG! I was so disappointed! I pushed through and finished, but wish I would have just stopped. I don’t think there was a social justice issue that she didn’t include. Thankfully, I followed up with Family Reunion and all my Nantucket love was restored!
J Burke says
Have you read any Charles Martin? I just discovered him and just finished When Crickets Cry and it is so good!!
Dana P says
That made me giggle about you reading a spirit book. I would feel the same way! I got another Kindle last week (my kids keep taking mine!), and I’m determined to get into reading like that. I’m still in the I-prefer-a-physical-book-stage, but I’m hoping the Kindle will stick this time. I’ll have to see if that Thirty Chic Days is available on ebook, it looks really cute!
Ashley P says
I feel the same about People You Meet. I closed it for the last time and said out loud to myself, “why in the world was that the title?!” Ah well. On to the next!
Erin Hobin says
I just got back into reading and read The Last Thing He Told Me (a suspense/mystery) and The Midnight Library back to back. Okay neither are beachy, but I thoroughly enjoyed both and think you need to read them before the year is up!
Jodie says
Reading The Last Thing He Told Me right now and also just read and enjoyed The Midnight Library. Also just read and loved Pack Up the Moon.
Allie says
Malibu rising!
Jami says
I really enjoyed Golden Girl. I didn’t think I would but I loved the little nudges she was able to give.
People We Meet on Vacation is on TBR list. But I like when things go wrong and vacations get messed up… it can be a good laugh and it’s just real life sometimes. I’ll have to go into it with an open mind.
Courtney says
I didn’t read People You Meet on Vacation because I felt the same way about Beach Read. Very unpopular opinion. It’s an older book, but have you read Night Road by Kristin Hannah? An amazing story of hope, forgiveness, and even signing guardianship over. I think you would love it 🙂
Melanie says
I absolutely LOVED The Last Thing He Told Me. I read it last month and it’s the best I’ve read this year!
Molly says
I love your book reviews, thank you for always giving great suggestions on what to read next! I just finished Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid…there are some characters that are mentioned in the book that appear in her other books!
Abigail says
Anything by Laura Dave! Super cute and light, until you get to The Last Thing He Told Me! Also very good but you’ll read through your fingers!
Ashley says
I felt the same way about People we meet on vacation. You need to read Malibu Rising!!
Diane says
Knowing that you are as big an Elin Hilderbrand fan as I am, I’ve been anxiously awaiting your book review for this month. I had pre-ordered and immediately read it (it’s officially the start of summer when her summer book comes out) – and I absolutely hated it. Glad that I’m not alone!
Courtney W. says
Run to the computer and purchase Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid. I started it on Saturday morning and finished it within 24 hours. It is SO good. Dare I say maybe even better than her previous novel Daisey Jones and the Six!?!?!!
Kristine says
I’m absolutely loving 28 Summers right now, but I know you already read it. Next up is Malibu Rising… I’ve heard such good things!
Anne says
I appreciate it when you tell the “rating”. Thanks!
Sylvia says
Was anyone else disappointed in the way Elin Hikderbrand’s Paradise series ended? I LOVED the first two books so much I preordered the third and paid “hard back book price!” But it was terrible in my opinion. It was almost like she tried to finish it fast and just wrap things up without thinking it through. Just curious if I’m alone in that thought. Not sure I want to try any of her other books now
Mix and Match Mama says
See my review on that series too. I was super disappointed in how quickly it all just miraculously came together.
Erin Lloyd says
Hi Shay! I totally agree with you on People You Meet on Vacation. As I was reading it I thought the SAME thing about the title. It came so highly recommended and fell flat for me too! Have you read Never Have I Ever by Joshilyn Jackson. I am listening to that and its really good!
Stacy says
I was the opposite loved people we meet on vacation and didn’t like float an at all I stopped reading it half way through !
MK says
I am about 80% complete with “People We Meet on Vacation” and I am not thrilled with it either. The flashbacks are too long and I think the main characters are a bit annoying and I don’t get why they never tried making it work in the past decade?! Ultimate Friend Zone situation there. I enjoyed the author’s “Beach Read” from last year but didn’t love it nearly as much as some people, so maybe the author just isn’t for me…
I also saw about Elin Hilderbrand retiring in 2024 and I am not okay with it. I haven’t read “Golden Girl” yet but hopefully her final books are amazing!
Carolyn says
I knew Golden Girl would be on your book review this month. I was interested to see what you thought about it. I felt the very same way you did about it. The story of the family kept me reading but I hated the spirit part.
Alexa says
I’ve read two autobiographies recently that I really enjoyed and can’t stop referencing.
You are Worth It: Building a Life Worth Fighting For by Kyle Carpenter
He is a marine that jumped on a grenade to save his friends life in combat. His outlook on life is very positive and worth listening to. Not what I expected. I couldn’t put it down!
What are the Odds? From Crack Addict to CEO by Mike Lindell
This one came highly recommended to me. It’s about the My Pillow guy. He has led a crazy life and shared in his book how he has owned up to all of it and now recognizes how God has had his hand in his life, saving him, forever.
Shelley Holden says
Elin is my favorite too….and I am so with you. I do not want spirits in a book especially my Nantucket perfect summer beach reads! I did love the parts that were not the spirit but I totally agree on your assessment. I would have never read this book of Elin wasn’t the author.
You have to read Malibu Rising next! My favorite book of the year so far. You will love it.
Riann says
You are DEFINITELY not alone in your opinion of The People We Meet on Vacation! I loved Beach Read so much, and I was so excited for this, but it just didn’t do it for me. It was fine, but nothing super special or one I’d go out of my way to recommend to anyone.
Sara says
I am currently reading Golden Girl and having a hard time, too! It feels way too autobiographical. Like, even down to how she references her Instagram page. Which I don’t love because instead of getting lost in the story I’m like “so did Elin’s ex have an affair? Does she really have a bestie that only wears black, white, beige and denim??” I’ll finish it, because like you she’s one of my faves. But I’m thinking I’ll be putting Nancy’s book on my TBR pile for next to cleanse the pallet!
SC says
Love your new profile pic! So sunny and bright, so you!
Jen says
Have you read the Nantucket Beach Plum Cove Series by Pamela M. Kelley? I just finished the first 5 books in the series and I really enjoyed it. Lots of wonderful references to food and all things Nantucket.
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s on my list but I always forget about it! Thank you for the reminder!!!!
Denise M. says
I felt the same way about Golden Girl. What’s funny is while I was reading it I thought (more than once) “I wonder what Shay will think of this book?!” Thank you for your honest book reviews. I look forward to them every month!
Mix and Match Mama says
You knew I wouldn’t love it too 😉 .
anna says
i felt exactly the same about people we meet on vacation!! their vacation sounded horrible, i would have left 1 day in!!! The title was also weird. The author is great but i felt the same way about her book Beach Read- not really a beach read???
Andrea B says
Love book review days…well I hadn’t heard anyone talk about “People we meet on vacation” but started reading it because I loved her other book “Beach Read”. I think I remember you didn’t like Beach Read. Anyways, I LOVED “People we meet on vacation” made me laugh out loud a couple of times, loved the characters & I think the title was because the ending she changed her career to do articles about the people she meets.
Elin is my favorite author too & when she talked about writing this book I knew it wasn’t one I would like. I’m not even going to try it after reading your review!
Adding your first book to my iPad now for our flight.
Stacy says
I love your monthly book reviews! I just finished The Next Wife by Kaira Rouda and highly recommend it.
Ashley says
Malibu Rising! It was sooo good. TJR doesn’t disappoint with this one!
Shawna says
Love book day! Have you read Martha’s Vineyard Isle of Dreams? Soooo goood. It is the true story of a woman starting over on Martha’s Vineyard. So sweet and uplifting! You would love it!!!!
Dorey says
you have got to read The Vanishing Half! The characters are complex and as soon as you like someone you are frustrated by a decision they make but the development is just amazing and I couldn’t put it down.
Ellen says
I’m reading this right now and really, really love it.
Tanya says
Thanks for the recommendations. I’m so sad to hear about the EH book, but will give the Thayer book a try. I’m putting Float Plan on my list. I just finished the Plot and enjoyed it.
Suman Ali says
The Defining Decade!!! Its a book for everyone in all stages of life.. mostly 20-30s though. So good.
Priscilla says
I’m having a very difficult time with Golden Girl. as well. I’m about half way through the book. Don’t like the spirit aspect AT ALL, and her helper?? Come on…On the other hand, loved Family Reunion. I also appreciate your R rating warnings. I stay away from them ❤
Kim says
Hi Shay! Just curious…when you read a book like Thirty Chic Days do you implement any of the suggestions into your daily life or just enjoy the adrenaline boost and move on? I find I’m a little of both.
Also, funny story, I came across Andre Agassi’s autobiography in a thrift store and screamed across the store to my husband “OMG! Shay said I HAVE to read this!!! He looked around like I was crazy! (Its ok we’ve been married for 32 years) I loved it and I don’t know a thing about tennis. Thank you for the rec I would’ve never read it otherwise. So good!
I think I’ll pass on Elin Hildebrands new one. Spirits? No thank you.
Mix and Match Mama says
Good question! It kind of depends on the chapter. Some chapters have easy little suggestions and tweaks I can begin doing that day, other chapters offer up advice or wisdom that I’ll just file away as a little bit of happiness. And pass on the spirits 😉 .
Kim says
Aw I think we all could use a happiness file…I love that!!!
Megan says
“After I Do” by Taylor Jenkins Reid or “What Alice Forgot” by Liane Moriarty are good summer reads. Also loved “Untamed” by Glennon Doyle.
Krista says
Live your life by Amanda and Anna Kloots
Amy Heinl says
I just finished this book. Her unending faith just amazed me. I don’t know if I could have gone through all that she went through and still come out with my faith intact. What a wonderful read.
Lauren Butts says
Under the Southern Sky by Kristin Woodson Harvey
Michele I Key says
Just finished this book….so good!!!
Julee says
I finished it in a day bc I couldn’t put it down – loved it!
DeAnn says
I love Emily Henry books, but this one wasn’t as good as Beach Read or The Love That Split the World. I recommend those to others all the time.
Wendy says
Elin Hildebrand is in my top 5 favorite authors. I completely agree with your entire review!
Tiffany says
I just finished The Warsaw Orphan (by the author of The Things We Cannot Say- which I learned about from you). It was great!
Heather says
Agreed! The Warsaw Orphan was a wonderful story.
Dana says
Love love love book review day!! After reading Beach Read which I did not like at all…I really struggled to finish, I think Emily Henry is just not an author for me. I was waiting to hear what others thought of People We Meet to see if I should give it a try but I have way too many other books in my TBR pile to give her books another try. I’m really sad about Elin’s GG. She is my very favorite author and tbh I didn’t like 28 Summers ( I know that’s an unpopular opinion) and I wasn’t sure about GG from the summary so I’m thankful for your review! I’m not into spirits either! Sad to hear she’s retiring soon…hope her final books go back to her earlier style of books! Adding Family Reunion to my list!!
Courtney C says
Have you read Malibu Rising? I’d love to know your opinion on it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I just finished it…I have all the opinions to share in next month’s review!
Taylor says
I had to force myself to finish People We Meet on Vacation! I was shocked because so many people were raving about it but it was sooo boring. Glad I’m not alone.
Jenn says
I totally agree with People You Meet on Vacation. I didn’t understand the title and was completely underwhelmed by the book. I felt like I might be the only one since it was on everyone’s “you should read list!” I just finished The Wife Upstairs. It’s definitely not light or a beach book but I enjoyed it.
Irene Campbell says
Sex and vanity by Kevin Kwan
Stacey W. says
Have you read The Restaurant by Pamela Kelley? I just finished it and thought it was so good, although predictable it was the perfect beachy read and I devoured it in two sittings.
Terri D. says
Just wondering if you could list your top 3 Elin Hildebrand books. I just read my first one by her based on your previous recommendation: Summer of 69′ and really enjoyed it. I don’t usually do a lot of “beach reads” and i know some of her books are better than others. Would love your input! Thanks!!
Mix and Match Mama says
My top three are: Blue Bistro, The Identicals and 28 Summers! (She has many other good ones too!)
Deb says
Somehow I missed Summerland and I liked that a lot
Kim Salmans says
I just finish summer at Firefly beach. I am like you and love beach reads. Thank you for always given your honest opinion! You have helped me find the reader in me!
Melissa Wiles says
I just read “Redeeming Love” by Francine Rivers and LOVEDDDDD IT! If you haven’t already read it, I highly recommend!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!!!! That one is really, really good!
Joanne says
I am kind of bummed now.. I’ve been waiting for Elin’s book to come in and I’m not really a fan of anything with spirits either. At least now I know I don’t want to pay money to read it so thank you for your honest review!
Jean says
Shay!!
You have to read Sea Wife and Shipped. They are perfect beach reads!!
Laurie Slaughter says
Malibu Rising!
Randi Uhles says
The sequel to 28 Summers is coming out tomorrow and I CANNOT wait. It’s on the top of my list 🙂
Jenn says
I totally agree with People You Meet on Vacation. I didn’t understand the title and was completely underwhelmed by the book. I felt like I might be the only one since it was on everyone’s “you should read list!” I just finished The Wife Upstairs. It’s definitely not light or a beach book but I enjoyed it.
Alexis says
I love your book reviews!
Totally disagree on People We Meet on Vacation. I adored the story. I loved the depth in it and the friendship between the characters. I also loved Beach Read. I tend to like chick lit that also has some depth to it.
I liked Golden Girl but didn’t love it. Blur Bistro and 28 Summers are my fav by Elin! She’s my #1 author. Love her!!
Hostage is the best thriller I’ve read in years (just came out last week) and I think you’d love it!
Read Malibu Rising and I’m dying to hear your opinion bc I think I’m in the minority. Really enjoyed the first half but not a huge fan of the second half or the party itself. E drug references just got to be a lot. I did love the end though and how it all wrapped up. Didn’t compare to Daisy Jones for me though.
Christina Lauren’s newest one, The Soulmate Equation, is adorable! Probably my favorite of theirs.
The Last Thing He Told Me is a really good one, too!
Emily R says
I totally agree with you about PWMOV – loved, loved, loved it!
Kathy says
I just finished Nobody Will Tell You This but Me and really loved it. A true story told by a granddaughter of the stories her grandmother told her and their relationship. A short book but gave me all the feels. Highly recommend.
I really liked Our Woman in Moscow by Beatrix Williams. Her writing style is very film noire and I feel like I’m watching a movie. I love it.
I liked Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner.
Maggie says
I’m reading the sequel to American Royals- Majesty. It’s good so far. Maybe not as good as American Royals, but still worth a read.
Sheila DeSpirito says
The Newcomer- Mary Kay Andrews
And one recommendation for Smith
The Islanders- Mary Alice Monroe
Chrissy ciaverilla says
I just finished American dirt and you were right, I CAN’T stop thinking about it. Along the same lines of books that you might love for July, “Once We Were Here” is WWII historical fiction but from the Greek perspective and it’s SO good. Thanks for the great post as always!
Amy Heinl says
I love book review day!!! This month I read Live your Life..My story of loving & losing Nick Cordero (her husband) by Amanda Kloots….wow…I thought I knew her story during those 95 days but so much is shared that hasn’t been shared before. Her immense faith in God and how it sustained her…her strength and resilence were just amazing. To be walking through the darekest days of her life and to come out the other side with her faith stronger than before….I hope you read it….it will move you beyond measure.
I read my most favorite author, Mary Alice Monroe…her newest called the Island of Lost & Found….I just love her books, her rich story lines and characters. She is one of the best beachy book authors
Finally, I read by an author new to me. It was The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert Dugani. I heard so many good things about this author and this story and everything I heard was so richly deserved.
From the minute you are completely taken in by this child, who grew up to be a man, who seemed to take care of everyone, except himself. His life wasn’t just “extraordinary” it was emotional, tender, heartbreaking, and full of love for this boy, because he was different, because he was bullied, because he was taken advantage of and because he couldn’t understand why God allowed all these things to happen?! Until the end….and the end was a magical understanding he received in his life, from God, from his mother and her faith. But to be Sam, is to be that child or that adult who has had so many things happen in your life and you just look to God and say, “Please tell me why?” This story will make you sad, make you mad, have you laughing at loud and in the end will sweep you off your feet and make you feel like you can soar.
Sara says
A friend wrote a great book that would be considered a beach read. It’s called Boop and Eve’s Road Trip. It’s light and funny but also with some serious undertones. https://www.amazon.com/Boop-Eves-Road-Trip-Novel/dp/1631527630/ref=nodl_ I think you would love it.
Adriana says
I really enjoyed Pack Up The Moon as well.
Allison says
If you liked 28 Summers, Elins coming out with a short little sequel tomorrow called the Sixth Wedding.
Alison Mayes says
I love the author Becky Wade. Her books are really funny Christian chic lit.
Allison says
The Last Train to Key West is so good!
Jennifer says
I agree! Loved this one!
Kimberly E Waller says
Just finished the lies that bind by Emily Griffin and really enjoyed it
Megan says
If you haven’t read Girl in a Blue coat by Monica Hesse you should! I recently read it and loved it!!
Erin says
I have a middle grade summer read suggestion for Kensington. It’s called The Islanders and the authors are Mary Alice Monroe and Angela May.
Mix and Match Mama says
Ohhhhhh! Thank you so much!!!!
Jen Scott says
The Seven Sisters series is pretty good and will take you awhile. They’re light enough to qualify as a beach read but also have more depth than a super light & fluffy story. I was skeptical at first but ended up really enjoying the series.
CheyAnne says
I just finished The Family Next Door by Sally Hepworth and enjoyed it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love her book so much!!!!!
Ruby Huling says
I’ve read a series of beachy themed books by Jennifer Probst and loved each one.
Alison says
I just finished People We Meet On Vacation and had the exact same thoughts! I don’t understand why it got such rave reviews because it definitely fell flat to me. I’ll have to read Float Plan soon!
Connors Rita says
I think you would like The Authenticity Project
Erin says
The Unhoneymooners, Evie Drake Starts Over, and The Bookish Life of Nina Hill are all sweet easy reads. I am halfway through the Unhoneymooners and it is definitely a beach read-takes place in Maui!
Rebecca says
I felt the exact same about people we meet on vacation! I read it a few books after float plan, which I really liked, but it definitely was just “EH” for me! The best new release i read is from Beatriz Williams, our woman in Moscow! She’s my favorite historical fiction author, & this was has her typical spunky, fun female lead, I really liked Golden Girl?
Julie Sizemore says
I am currently reading Malibu Rising. I can’t wait to see your review on it next month. Golden Girl will be next. I finished People We Meet on Vacation and The Last Thing He Told Me this month. I was disappointed in them both. The hype was big for them and I rank them like a 4. Just not for me.
Keisha says
Ok my #1 summer beach read is Dice on the Deadly Sea. Don’t let the title throw you. It’s about friendship and a little scandal. But to understand it, you should read the first book in the cardboard Cottage series, Dying for Dominos. First one is based in AR. Second is on a 50th birthday cruise. Fun, suspenseful reads that I just devoured so quick
Mix and Match Mama says
The title did throw me! Hahaha!
Renee says
I felt the same about People we meet…
I was especially disappointed because I loved Beach Read SO much. I’m going to have to give Float Plan a try. Currently I’m reading The Wolf and the Woodsman which is brand new out and not a “ beachy” but I’m kinda loving it.
Liz says
My favorite book this month was Hana Khan Carries On. Feel the same way you did about People we meet on vacation. I liked Life’s Too Short by Abby Jimenez. Under the Southern Sky was good but not as good as her other books.
Kelly says
Something in the water! Great book but a bit suspenseful!
Merrill says
Loved the friend zone!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that one too!!
Gwen says
Noo not Elin! She’s my favorite too but I’m not so sure about this one… I’ll probably still read it though because #Elin
I just read a brand new author and LOVED her debut novel! Highly recommend When You’re Home by Abby Millsaps- it’s a love story with some steamy scenes (kind of Jasmine Guillory like) but the twist and turns were amazing! The best part is she’s already planning to release a sequel! I cant wait!
Ana Luxton says
Really great selection this month! I’ve only read the Nancy Thayer from this mix and had the Elin Hilderbrand on my to buy list, but I’ve been hesitating because the premise doesn’t appeal to me as much as 28 Summers for example.
Have you read The Secret Keeper of Jaipur by Alka Joshi? It’s the follow-up to The Henna Artist. So so good!
Another one I would recommend is The Summer Seekers by Sarah Morgan. It’s the perfect poolside read!
Deb says
So far this summer I’ve read Golden Girl which I enjoyed bc Elin, food and Nantucket! Northern Spy and Malibu Rising. Both good!!!!
Kim says
Hi Shay – I always love your book recs. I am in the mood for summery beach reads right now too! I know you usually love Elin Hilderbrand’s books and have read most or all of them. I have read a few and enjoy them, too, especially in the summer! Blog post idea – I was wondering if you would ever want to rank all of her books in order of your favorite to least favorite – as a guide for those of us who haven’t read them all and want to read more of them. My summery beach read recs for you are The Overdue Life of Amy Byler, The Switch, and Love at First. Happy July!
Mix and Match Mama says
Okay, this is a really great idea! Let me see if I can work on that!!
Elizabeth Noland says
Late to the book party this week, but totally agree on PWMOV. The millennial ennui does not do it for me, but I loved Beach Read. Olympus, Texas by Stacey Swann is a really good recent release about a Texas family with some clever tie-ins to Greek mythology. I really liked it, and it gave me another very specific hazard to warn my kids about. I love your book days – thank you!
Heather says
You described People we Meet On Vacation perfectly! I was so mad the title didn’t follow the sorry. If it had a different title maybe I would have liked it more, but overall agree that it just fell flat. It left me wanting to write a book by the same name and actually have it be about people we meet on vacation!
Lex says
This Tender Land- you won’t regret it. Check it out on GoodReads ?
Alison says
Hi Shay! I look forward to this post every month! Did you happen to see that there are two more CHIC books? Just ordered the first one for my kindle and can’t wait to start!
Mix and Match Mama says
I did!! I ordered one too!!!
Kimi Delano says
Well, we are officially at the point in our relationship where we read the exact same books. I used to come for book recs, but now I read straight through to comments to find my next months reads. This sweet group rarely steers me wrong?. I’m reading Beatriz William’s, ‘Our Woman in Moscow’ and am really enjoying it (surprising because I usually save BW for winter months).
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m so glad we’ve reached that point 🙂 . That made me smile!
Kate says
HI! Ok so when this post came out I hadn’t read Golden Girl yet. Before I read your post I was already uncertain that I’d like it. And then I LOVED it! I was sure I’d hate the death and that person being a character but I totally ate it up wondering how she would use her nudges. Of course I was sad when it was over and so I bought her $2.99 e-read of the sequel to 28 Summers> I thought I’d brush up on 28 Summers so I didn’t get it mixed up with GG and ended up readying it ALL over again and then went right into the sequel.
She has said she thought everyone that was so mad at the end of 28 Summers would be much happier with this short sequel but I don’t follow that. I wasn’t sure what everyone was mad about but I was slightly frustrated at the end of the sequel!
But now I want another Elin book and I think I’ve read them all – agh!!
Katrina says
I had Float Plan in my pile, so after I saw your post I read it in one day! It was super cute. I liked People We Meet on Vacation ( I think it means.. the characters met each other on vacation… they seemed to act different when they were together than when they were apart). I want to read Thirty Chic Days next!
Patti Stanford says
Hi! The Guncle by Steven Rowley. So good, sweet, touching and a little mind changing. Is it beachy? Eh, maybe not, but it is pool-ey? Yes, yes, yes!!! The characters are very likable, warts and all. The kids are adorable in a good way. I was really surprised that I liked it so well. It opens my mind and my heart in a way that’s very touching. And yes it makes me want to put on my bathing suit and go to the water. Just a pool not the beach. Lol. Thank you!
Betsy says
Wow-I’m kind of surprised by how many “Golden Girl” haters there are on this post! I just finished it and loved it. Tears streaming down my face-all the feels…I thought it was great. I was so scared of being disappointed after I read your review and the comments, but I’m glad I trusted my instincts to form my own opinion and go ahead and read it. I love EH’s Nantucket books, and this one was as good as many of her others. Sweet, relatable characters and a heart-warming ending. I guess that’s the beauty of literature-we are all free to read and form our own opinions! i will try Float Plan and Thayer’s books next, though…and I’m excited to read them both.
Abby Larson says
Have you read “Truth Be Told” or “Follow Me” by Kathleen Barber? Highly recommend! Her first novel, “Truth Be Told” was made into an Apple TV series starring Octavia spencer and Aaron Paul. It’s THAT good!
Maria says
LILAC GIRLS by Martha Hall Kelly is a MUST read! Some chapters end in significant cliff hangers that make want to skip ahead to see what happens next. A must read for fans of historical fiction.
Jamie Trotter says
First, I want to say thank you!! A couple years ago I started reading and your reviews were my guide! You still are my go to for book ideas but I’m now in it enough to have favorite authors and styles of books to occasionally find a few on my own. With that said, I just read Back in the burbs and it was really cute! Thank you for taking the time to write your reviews with such honesty!!!