Another Memorial Day weekend is
approaching, and another barrage of summer reading lists have arrived. As per
usual, I'm adding my list to the pile: five books I'm hoping to read this
summer and five I've read (since last May) that I would recommend. Looking at last year's list, I realized that each book on my 'looking
forward to' list had a publication date past Memorial Day. This year, in
addition to the list of books I'd recommend, all the books are available RIGHT
MEOW for loading up the Kindle or library tote - with the exception of the new Elin Hilderbrand. However, if you haven't
read her novels, there is plenty of backlist to choose from while we wait just a couple of weeks for the June release. (There are lots of reviews for her books in my 'reviews by author' list.)
Books I'm looking forward to:
Books I'm looking forward to:
The Queen of Hearts by Kimmery Martin got a lot
of social media buzz this winter, especially with such a gorgeous, Instagram-worthy cover. Apparently the inside is worthy of the outside, as some of my
most trusted sources gave this novel the thumbs up (Megan's review, Tara's review and Anne Bogel's Summer Reading Guide). A Grey's
Anatomy-esque drama sounds perfect for summer.
It
wouldn't be summer without a trip to Nantucket! I didn't go for Hilderbrand's
new book last summer, as I was catching up on some backlist that helped prep me
for the final Winter Street book. This summer's The
Perfect Couple is her first Kirkus starred review (after 21 books!)
so I am definitely adding it to the beach bag.
The Ones We Choose by Julie Clark is my pick for
a debut author read. This story about the emotional bonds versus the DNA that
bonds family sounds intriguing and hopefully a family drama with a little heft.
I
have yet to read a Jenny Colgan novel, but from what I gather, they are
perfectly cozy and sweet reads. I'm hoping Little Beach Street Bakery will be the perfect summer
treat that the title evokes.
Crazy Rich Asians by Kevin Kwan is hitting the
big screen this summer and looks like so much fun! I don't know how I missed
the boat on this one years ago, but I hope to make up for it in time to watch
the movie.
Books I would recommend:
Castle of Water by Dane Hucklebridge is a fast paced, tearjerker love story of two complete opposites stranded on an island. It's melodramatic and a little hard to suspend disbelief in parts, but it's a quick and romantic read. (my review)
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen is an
adorable, magical romance set in the south. Definitely recommend for those who
loved Practical Magic. (my review)
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a
must read, full of fabulous old Hollywood glam and drama. I think every summer
should include a novel by Reid. (my review)
I
just read The Perfect Mother by Aimee
Molloy and if you are a fan of domestic thrillers poolside, this is definitely
the summer book for you. (my review)
Rabbit Cake by Annie
Hartnett is my off the beaten path book for summer. A story about a girl navigating life after her mother's death does not scream SUMMER. But, there is so much warmth and hilarity in this quirky story about a girl named Elvis trying to bake a world record number of rabbit shaped cakes. (my review)
I think Rabbit Cake is a great summer read! Easy to get engrossed in and doesn't take too much concentration!
ReplyDeleteYou are going to love Crazy Rich Asians! The entire trilogy is fantastic. I saw him at a book event in Seattle and he said everything in the books is true- which once you start reading you will not believe. They are so much fun!
ReplyDeleteI've either read or want to read more than half of these! Great list! I love summer reading!
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