“One benefit of summer was that each day we had more light to read by.” – Jeanette Walls
Reading is a year-round pastime for me, but in the summer I love to take extra indulgences! There’s not much better than being by a body of water with a refreshing drink in one hand and a good book in the other.
My typical summer reading is pretty light, but I’m trying to branch out in my reading life. A girl can only read Confessions of a Shopaholic so many times, right? I discovered two great sources to find my literary inspiration. In case you haven’t met these yet, let me introduce you.
First, meet the Book of the Month Club. Every month BOTM has five book selections chosen by their judges. You choose one book (or more if you are so inclined) and it’s shipped right to you on the seventh of each month. Your monthly plan includes one hardback book and shipping, with the option to purchase additional titles at a discounted price. New members can click here to get a three-month subscription at 50% off! Right now I’m reading Before the Fall by Noah Hawley, a title I wouldn’t have typically chosen, and I am LOVING it! (I just have to finish before I get on a plane next Tuesday!)
My second go-to for book recommendations is Modern Ms. Darcy, Anne Bogel. Anne is, as Jamie Golden calls her, The Book Whisperer. She has a tremendous Summer Reading Guide, of which I found at least one title (if not more) to read out of each category. She also has a fun podcast called “What Should I Read Next?” where she plays literary matchmaker. If you’re looking for great summer reads, her reading guide or podcast are the perfect starting places.
Now that I’ve shared my two favorite places to find good reads, here’s what’s on my list for this summer. And yes, I may be a teensy bit overzealous in trying to get all of these in before summer’s done.
Eligible, Curtis Sittenfeld – Ok, so full disclosure, I actually finished this book last week. It’s 488 pages (GAH!), but with short chapters and great writing, it’s easy to breeze right through.
For the Love, Jen Hatmaker – This book came out last fall, but I just haven’t made it to it this book yet. It’s high up on my list for this summer.
No One Knows, J.T. Ellison – Based in Tennessee, this is my suspenseful page-turner.
The Year We Turned 40, Liz Fenton & Lisa Steinke – I may know something about turning 40. This is the story of three best friends who get a do-over on their 40th year. Looking forward to some laughs and learning what not to do as I approach 40!
Platform, Michael Hyatt – Like I said, mixing it up this summer. As I continue to work on my own book, having a strong platform is key. Michael Hyatt is a pro at building a platform and I’ve heard great reviews on this book.
The Nest, Cynthia D’Aprix Sweeney – I just missed out on getting this book through BOTM Club! This debut novel is already a New York Times Bestseller. Following four siblings through their own family dysfunction and figuring our their shared inheritance sounds like just what an afternoon by the pool calls for.
Here’s to Us, Elin Hilderbrand – Though I am still yet to actually go (surely in the year I turn 40!), Nantucket is my soul place. So until I can get there, I live vicariously through all of Elin’s novels. This one just released and I’m hoping it’s included in the July BOTM Club picks.
First Comes Love, Emily Giffin – This sweet book about two sisters at a crossroads releases next week! This is another one I’m hoping will be in the BOTM Club picks for July. I’ve had a sneak peek and it’s not going to disappoint.
Truly Madly Guilty, Liane Moriarty – This forthcoming title is from the author who brought us Little Big Lies, which the always adorable Reese Witherspoon is bringing to the big screen for us soon. In this novel, Moriarty takes on the biggest topics of life with marriage, parenthood, and friendship. I’ll be rounding out my summer reads with this one that releases at the end of July.
Me Before You, Jojo Moyes – I feel like I’m the last one to the table with this one. And, I refuse to see the movie before I’ve read the book, which is why I’m waiting patiently by the audiobook from my library. In the past, I have scoffed at the notion of an audiobook, but podcasts have changed how I consume content and now I love tossing in a good audiobook when my hands are too full holding other books.
So that’s my short list! I’d love to know if you’ve read any of the above titles and what you thought, as well as what books are on your reading list for the summer.