It’s BOOK DAY!
BOOKS + SUNNY WEATHER + RELAXED SUMMER SCHEDULES
What could be better?
Nothing. 🙂
That being said, if you happen to be one of my “non-reader” friends, I have a second post today all about SUMMER, so you might want to hop on over and check that out (Sheaffer!).
Alrighty, this month, I read FIVE BOOKS!
Below, you’ll find a bit of mystery, a little wellness, some advice for living your best life at home, and two summery romcoms. It’s a wonderful May mix.
First up…
Book #1 this month was:
…Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth.
As many of you know, this was our MAY BOOK CLUB pick! If you have read this book, please head to THIS POST to discuss. If you haven’t read this book, let me give you a few deets and also encourage you NOT to read the Book Club post as it does contain spoilers.
Curious about this one? Here is my review (without spoilers):
I’ll cut to the chase, I gave this book FIVE STARS!
If you are looking for a novel that’s a little twisty, a little “who done it”, not graphic or gruesome but just chock-full of great characters and unexpected twists, this book is for you.
The novel opens with an older woman reflecting on the fact that children and old ladies are never accused of murderous crimes…and then the story goes on.
This book moves quickly as it toggles back and forth between present day and decades past. There are so many great characters and plot lines and by the end, it’s all wrapped up and tied with a bow. The plot is so original, so layered, and you won’t quite know what (or who!) to believe.
Five big stars from me!
Book #2:
The Menopause Gut by Cynthia Thurlow
Well this book was so fantastic that I did an ENTIRE BLOG POST on it.
I highly encourage all of you to hop on over HERE and check it out. Whether you’re in menopause or not (or let’s be real, a woman or not), you have a gut, and it’s affecting your health. Maybe it’s affecting it in a positive way…or maybe not, but regardless, it’s affecting it.
I hope you read my full review HERE.
Book #3:
American Fantasy by Emma Straub
Hmmmmm…I don’t know what to think about this one.
I was really really excited when I first started reading this novel. This is about a former boy band who gets back together every year (decades later) to do a “fan sailing” on a cruise ship. So, imagine New Kids on the Block having a big “fan sailing” on a Royal Caribbean ship each year filled with nothing but die hard NKOTB fans.
I mean, I love boy bands and I love cruise ships…so this checked two big boxes for me.
I thought the novel started off strong. The story includes the perspectives from the crew, the band, and some of the guests. Everyone was likable, the different points of view were interesting and all a bit connected, plus, it was fun seeing the “behind the scenes” of bands such as this. I was really enjoying the book until…it kept going, and going, and going, and going. It just got really long to me.
Am I alone here?
The writing was good, the story was entertaining…it just got looooong.
I didn’t dislike the novel at all, I just wish the author had cut out about twenty percent of it.
Book #4:
Living Well At Home by Jennifer L. Scott
Well this book was such a lovely read. Many of you might know this author. I’ve read and reviewed her book(s) about Madam Chic in years past. Although the writing style and overall “inspiration” is similar to her French publications, this particular book is more introspective. As you read, Scott breaks down all aspects of life (living well, eating well, manners, your actual home, your health, beauty, etc) and shares practical ways to make each aspect of your life thrive a bit a more. She includes recipes, strategies, easy tips and applications to not just living but living well. Every day. From your own home.
If you want a little inspiration for living your best life, trust me, you can’t help but be motivated by reading this one. This is one of those books where you’ll read a little and then want to put the book down so you can go out and tend to your garden or wash your linens or spruce up your makeup drawer. It’s just happy living in a book.
And finally…
Book #5:
Our Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
I am typically a BIG fan of Carley Fortune novels. I get excited each year for a new one to come out. This one though fell flat for me. Am I the only one? Please tell me that I’m not the only one.
Like her other novels, this one includes gorgeous Canadien towns with a cozy home, lovable characters, and some sort of heroine that finds her perfect partner. What this one doesn’t include though is a solid plot. For me, Fortune’s other novels have meaty plots with layers and substance and this one was just really predictable and very rated R. I don’t normally mind when you “know the outcome” right off the bat (similar to a Hallmark movie), but I at least want some sort of plot along the way that entertains me. I thought this one lacked that “good story” I’m accustomed to when reading her novels.
Boo.
I really really wanted to love this book, but it just kind of felt like a waste of time.
I am very curious to see if anyone else feels this way too.
Alrighty, that’s my MAY BOOK REVIEW!
Don’t forget…
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.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2021 (all 59 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2022 (all 60 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2023 (all 51 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2024 (all 58 of them), click here.
To see the complete list of books I read in 2025 (all 58 of them), click here.
If you want to stay current on all of the books I’m reading in 2026, THIS PAGE HERE is where I keep the books, authors and reviews each month.
We would love, love to have you join us in June for our BOOK CLUB!
Next month, we are reading…
…Summer State of Mind by Kristy Woodson Harvey and discussing it on June 22nd.
One last bonus book for our day…
…my friend Brenna wrote another book! Today through Saturday, her ebook will also be FREE!! If you or someone you know is walking the adoption/foster road, I cannot recommend this book enough. Brenna is a super mom who has always had a ministry and a heart for walking alongside mamas. She’s a straight shooter who speaks right to the heart of issues…the good, the bad, and the ugly while also being compassionate and encouraging. I hope you check it out!
Okay, it’s time to chat books in the comment section. Please comment and share!
I hope you have the BEST Thursday, friends! I have a second post all about SUMMER today to share with you too. Make sure you also check that one out as well. Cheers to summer book reading! xx
Elspeth Mizner says
I have Carley’s new book on my to be read list too! I’ll have to check it out! I love book review day!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Angela says
I felt the same about American Fantasy. I was so excited to read it, but it fell so flat for me. There were too many characters — some with too similar of names — and not enough depth to be able to remember and keep them all straight. I’ve seen other people say similar things so I’m glad to know I’m not alone in being letdown after it had such a cute and promising pitch.
Taylor says
I think Amazon prime is making a Carley fortune series! It sounds like the perfect summer show.
Mix and Match Mama says
Really?! Out of which book????
Alana says
I believe it’s based on Every Summer After, but they are calling it Every Year After!
Mix and Match Mama says
Well, I will need to watch that!
Dana J says
Excited to read Mad Mabel…I love Sally Hepworth books! I disappointed hearing about the new Carley Fortune book I was looking forward to reading it, I may still give it a try who knows. I didn’t know about the new show based on her other book so I’m excited about that! Love book review day and reading the comments!
Jen says
Every Summer After but they are calling it Every Year After
Kristen says
Curious if you read Into the Blue by Emma Brodie yet? It’s been a hot book right now and I read it and curious to see what everyone thinks about it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t even think I’ve heard of that one. I’m looking it up right now. Thanks for the rec!
Arika says
Kristen, I just finished Into the Blue and actually really enjoyed it. Some of show details became kind of lost on me, but I feel like you didn’t need to understand those specifics to appreciate the meat of the book. I thought the characters were complex and imperfect and I thought it was a great story!
Kristen says
Yes , the sci fi show stuff didn’t grab me but I thought the characters and story were great! Definitely worth a read!
Karen from Australia says
I jumped on here to recommend Into The Blue! Such a good novel.
It reminded me of a cross between Tomorrow and Tomotrow and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin and … another great book by a very well known author, but if I say the title of that novel, it will give away the basic plot of Into The Blue! Just read it, it’s awesome 😉
Mary Kruft says
Just starting the hard copy but got Calamity Club on Libby so need to come back to Into the Blue… the 30 pgs I read do far were good & reviews are awesome.
Kristen says
It’s definitely worth reading.. I will go right now and put Calamity Club on hold!
Mandie Howard says
Currently reading Three Sisters by Heather Morris! It is so good. I started it yesterday and will most likely finish it today!
Allison says
Have you read The Calamity Club? It’s from the same author that wrote The Help. I just finished it and FIVE STARS!! LOOOOOOVED it! Definitely a book that will stick with me forever!
Mix and Match Mama says
It’s on my LIST!!!!!!
Kerry Shelton says
The audiobook of this is FANTASTIC! It’s long but I love the voices in it, especially the orphan, Meg. Our book club is reading it and all are loving it.
Sue M says
The Calamity Club is amazing! It’s long so set aside a chunk of time since you won’t be able to put it down
Alana says
I felt the exact same about Our Perfect Storm! I was so excited for it because I’ve loved her other books. This one never really sucked me in 🙃
Mary Kruft says
OK I agree. I got so frustrated with FMC & how could she not see how awesome he was & dismiss him for so long. The town sounded amazing but I almost wanted to say to George, “you deserve better!”
Lindsay says
Thoughts on Yesteryear?
Mix and Match Mama says
I haven’t read it because several of my friends did not enjoy it…what are your thoughts??
Lindsay says
Saw some Insta recaps that really summed up what I felt. First half: interesting concept. Second half: what in the what am I reading, train wreck. Not really glad I read it but so wacky it’s one you must talk about!
Jessica says
Exactly what I thought. First part was good, interesting; second part, I was like, what on earth is going on! I didn’t finish it.
Chrys says
I actually loved Our Perfect Storm! It was moody, sexy, and the characters had some turmoil (family drama & with each other) that they needed to unpack. One Golden Summer will always be my fav Carley Fortune book, but this was a close second. I cannot wait for the show on Prime that comes out in a couple of weeks!
Kelsey says
Have you read The Mad Wife? I finished it in 2 days after my mom recommended it, couldn’t put it down! It’s got a great plot twist. Now I’m about to start The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife, another rec from my mom—supposed to be really uplifting which I’m into these days after reading Theo of Golden (also highly recommend!).
Mix and Match Mama says
I have not! Thank YOU for the rec!
Melissa B says
I loved The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife!
Jessica says
The Shaeffer call out has me rolling.
The latest Carley book was a big DNF for three of my friends so I’m going to skip it. Which is a shame, typically her books are very likeable, fun reads.
I started Summer State of Mind this week….. already so good!
Sarah says
I am currently listening to Mad Mabel and the readers are excellent! I usually read books but when it’s summer I listen to one as walk!
Katrina Wells says
I haven’t even finished Carly’s new book and I already agree with you. This one is taking me forever to get through. With the first two, I couldn’t put them down. I’m not excited to grab my Kindle to read this one.
Karen says
Has anyone read the Calamity Club by Katherine Stockett? She wrote The Help. It is a really long book, but I am enjoying it so far.
Mary Kruft says
Thanks for that review- just picked for July book club & starting it this weekend
Jessica Shobe says
Yay for book review day. I listened to Strangers, Mad Mable, Under the Tulip Tree, Vera Wong’s Unsolicited Advice to Murderers, and Spectacular Things, and read The librarian Spy and loved them all. I tried to start Yesteryear, but couldn’t finish. There is so much hype over it, but I just did not like it.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve heard that from a handful of friends (about Yesteryear), so I don’t think I’m going to read it myself.
Kristy says
I’m so glad you read the Fortune and Straub books first. I will skip them! I’m currently reading The Calamity Club by Katherine Stockett and enjoying it. I recommend it! I already read the June book. I’m curious to hear your thoughts!
Rachel S says
I loved Our Perfect Storm! I saw Carley at an author event when the book came out, and it really helped hearing more about what inspired her and more about the area. She is amazing!!!
Becky S says
I’m about 90% of the way through Carley’s new book and I’ve loved it!! It’s always fascinating to me how we can all feel so differently about certain books!!
Nicole Wilder says
I have read all of Carley Fortune’s books and I love them all, including Our Perfect Storm. I just finished it a few days ago and I keep thinking about it. I loved the section when they were at the resort the most. I usually agree with you on books(I get most of my suggestions from you!) but I guess not this one! 😂 I am currently reading Beth O’Leary’s newest one, The Name Game, and it’s taking me a little while to get into. I usually love all of her books, too.
sandi says
I was reading Emma Straub The vacationers and at one point started scanning just to see how it ended. Modern Lovers by the same author was already check out through Libby and I got to chapter 3 and returned it. Since those were a flop, I picked up a few Christian fictions books by Jennifer Beckstrand which were funny and predictable.
Two books that redeemed by May reading were The Story of Arthur Truluv by Elizabeth Berg and Forty Autumns: A family’s story of courage and survival on both sides of the Berlin Wall by Nina Willner. Both were excellent reads.
Julie says
I felt the exact same way about Our Perfect Storm. I love all of her books, and I preordered this one, so I was really excited to read it. It just fell flat for me. Beyond predictable, and I really had to push myself to even finish it.
Heather S says
Did you know New Kids on the Block actually has done cruises with their fans? Always thought it would be so fun to go on one.
Mix and Match Mama says
I did not know that! That’s my kind of cruise!
Kristen says
I have read and really enjoyed the first two Emma M. Lion books. The audible version is great. Currently reading The Island Villa by Sarah Morgan. I have enjoyed all of her books as well. I know there is a new Jenny Colgan book coming out that I want to read this summer.
Liz says
I read/listened to all of the Emma M Lion books. Can’t wait until another one comes out. Definitely recommend.
I’m listening to The One Day You Were My Husband. I’m really enjoying it so far. Also just started Dolly All the Time.
Kit says
Dolly All the Time! Romcom of the summer!!
Mix and Match Mama says
Looking it up now!
Lauren Middleton says
I second this recommendation! Sooo good!!
Karen says
I’m reading The Brunswick by Callie Murray!! It’s WW II historical fiction based in the South …. A sweet love story, tie-ins to characters in war torn Europe, and an added story of the kindertransport of Jewish children. It’s endorsed by Allen Levi and Lisa Wingate and is hard to put down! Callie released her first book into the world as she welcomed 4 adopted children into her family of 5! Read it! You’ll fall in love with The Brunswick … and Callie!
Sarah says
I don’t know if you ever listen to audiobooks but if you ever were to give it a try I cannot possibly recommend Project Hail Mary highly enough. I really don’t read any sci-fi but I think it rises above the genre. And the audiobook narrator could not possibly be more perfect. I had heard so many good things and was worried about the book not living up to the hype – but if anything I want prepared for how good it is.
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t listen to audiobooks, but I’ve heard that one should read the book (or listen) before they go see the movie. I’ve had two different friends tell me that.
Sarah says
I think if you don’t have any intention of reading the book you can still enjoy the movie on its own – you won’t enjoy it less just because you don’t have the context from the book, in my opinion. But the book is obviously a lot more detailed and nuanced, as books usually are.
I will say, if sci-fi is not your usual genre this is so much more accessible via audiobook because the science is pretty heavy and can make you glaze over a bit when reading it on the page. But the audio is such an immersive performance that you don’t feel quite as much pressure to absorb the nitty gritty details of the science.
Just my opinion as someone who really doesn’t read sci-fi and never used to listen to audiobooks!
Mix and Match Mama says
Thank you, thank you for this feedback! The previews of the movie look really sweet.
Robin Forrester says
You have to listen to the audiobook. It is way better than the movie. So good!!
Jen says
Have you read “this Book Made me Think of you? By Libby Page? So much to love and think about. Sad yes but so many joyful moments too. How they fit in a bunch of actual books into it as well appeases all the book lovers.
Mix and Match Mama says
Yes!! I read it last month. I really loved it.
Faith Kapp says
I love book review day. It also gives me anxiety because you and your readers have so many good book recs that I want to read every one of them right now. My list is getting longer and longer 😅
Mix and Match Mama says
I KNOW!!!! I added seven books just based off of this one post alone. There isn’t enough time for all the books I want to read 🙂 .
Nicole N says
The Burning Side by Sarah Damoff was so good!
Jennifer says
I really liked Our Perfect Storm. Maybe I liked it more because I resonate with it. I too took for granted my best friend. We almost lost our chance, but I’m happy to say, that didn’t happen. Yes, you must read The Mad Wife.
Mix and Match Mama says
Awwwww! Well that is a REALLY sweet reason to like it!
Lindsay Gries says
I am a foster mom deep in the trenches right now. Thank you for recommending your friend’s book! I will definitely check it out.
Mix and Match Mama says
Goodness, I wish I could give you a hug. Bless YOU and what you’re doing for these sweet kids.
Debra says
Living well at home sounds amazing – going to read that one this month. Thank you for the recommendation.
Nova says
I LOVED the new Carley Fortune book, it was my favorite one of hers yet. I lived the characters, and they felt real. I wanted to be in their lives. I’m actually considering reading it again. The descriptions of the beautiful towns. I really enjoyed that the leading lady considered on her own what she wanted and went for it.
Roya says
Have you read Lady Tremaine? It’s a fresh take on the story of Cinderella. It was absolutely amazing and I highly recommend it!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have not! Thank YOU for the rec!
madeline says
I was so excited for Our Perfect Summer too, and I just didn’t enjoy it like I have her others. I really didn’t like the book Meet Me At The Lake by her either. The other ones I have loved and recommended to friends! I always look forward to her May release to get me into summer mode.
Heather says
I loved Mad Mabel! I listened to it as an audiobook and it was great! The characters you just love especially Mabel! Also, I just finished It Girl by Allison Pataki and really liked this too.