July's Literary Escapades: Unveiling the Books That Ignited My Summer Passion!
Greetings, fellow book enthusiasts, and welcome to a scorching summer edition of my book blog where I have some great Book Recommendations for you! As the sun reaches its zenith and the days stretch lazily before us all, I have found solace in the captivating world of literature, where every page turn carries me to new horizons. July has graced me with a plethora of literary treasures, from thrilling adventures that quicken the pulse to introspective tales that stir the soul. Join me as I take you on a literary journey, delving into the 9 books that have accompanied me through these long, hazy days. Grab your favourite iced beverage, find a cosy nook beneath the shade of a tree, and let me unveil thebook recommendations through the captivating stories that have illuminated my July reading list.
Let me know what captivating stories you have read during July.
Love Alis x
Title: Bad Men
Author: Julie Mae Cohen
Genre: Romance, Comedy, Suspense, Mystery, Psychological
Publisher: Zaffre
Date Published: 2023
Book Length: 368
Format: E book supplied to me by Net Galley in return for an honest review
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: Saffy has a secret. A secret that she is deeply ashamed of. It's not the fact that she's a serial killer in her free time. In fact, she's quite proud of that. After all she's only killing the bad men. She is making the world a better place. No, her secret is far worse than that. Saffy has a messy, inexplicable, uncontrollable crush. So, while she's busy plotting her next murder, she also has the much harder task of figuring out how to get a boyfriend. But if there's one thing Saffy knows, it's how to get her man . . .
My Thoughts: As I am reading, although this is a psychological mystery, I do find myself smiling at the wit that Julie Mae Cohen portrays in her writing. There is humour and sadness at the turn of a page, and it keeps you wanting more. The book is steadily paced, the characters are well crafted and evolve as the book progresses. I particularly liked the protagonist Saffe who has been damaged, but is a fighter, she has wit, courage but also has a dark side that she appears to take so matter of factly.
Julie Mae Cohens writing is interesting in the way it draws you in to the characters and their lives. With the mixture of romance, and psych rubbing along nicely together. There are a few story lines that interconnect that all kept me wanting more, bringing to mind the six degrees of separation theory.
In conclusion this is a well written book with great character development and a story you will want to know how it ends from the very start. A must for readers who love a mixture of mystery, psychological thriller with a bit of romance thrown in for good measure.
Title: Sunny Days and Sea Breezes
Author: Carole Matthews
Genre: Romance, Domestic, Book of the Month July
Publisher: Sphere
Date Published: 2021
Format: Paperback I purchased myself
Star Rating: 3*** I liked it, It’s OK
About Book: Jodie Jackson is all at sea, in every sense. On a ferry bound for the Isle of Wight, she's leaving her London life, her career, and her husband behind. She'd like a chance to turn back the clocks, but she'll settle for some peace and quiet on her brother Bill's beautifully renovated houseboat, Sunny Days. But from the moment Jodie steps aboard her new home, it's clear she'll struggle to keep herself to herself. If it isn't Marilyn, who cleans for Bill and is under strict instructions to look after Jodie, then it's Ned, the noisy sculptor on the next-door houseboat. Ned's wood carving is hard on the ears, but it's made up for by the fact that he's rather easy on the eyes. Bustled out of the boat by Marilyn and encouraged to explore with Ned, Jodie soon delights in her newfound freedom. But out of mind isn't out of sight, and when her old life comes knocking Jodie is forced to face reality. Will she answer the call or choose a life filled with Sunny Days and Sea Breezes?
My Thoughts: Summer Days and Sea Breezes" by Carole Matthews offers an escape to the seaside with its picturesque settings and charming romance. The scenic descriptions of the beach and the soothing sea breeze create a captivating backdrop, making it the perfect summer read. The book was an easy read and delivered a light-hearted and feel-good experience. Overall, it's an enjoyable beach read for those looking to unwind and embrace the sun-kissed atmosphere, but don't expect to be swept away by profound storytelling and while the plot is engaging, I found some aspects of the story to be a bit predictable, making it a fun but not surprising read. If you want an easy-to-read escape with a sprinkle of romance, this book is a perfect addition to your beach bag.
Title: End of October
Author: Lawrence Wright
Genre: Thriller Suspense, Adventure
Publisher: Black Swan
Date Published: 2020
Book Length: 480
Format: Paperback I purchased myself
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it, and highly recommend
About Book: At an internment camp in Indonesia, forty-seven people are pronounced dead with a mysterious fever. When Dr Henry Parsons - microbiologist and epidemiologist - travels there on behalf of the World Health Organization to investigate, what he finds will soon have staggering repercussions across the globe. As international tensions rise and governments enforce unprecedented measures, Henry finds himself in a race against time to track the source and find a cure - before it's too late . . .
My Thoughts: : End of October" by Lawrence Wright is a gripping and eerily prescient thriller that takes readers on a harrowing journey through a global pandemic. The story unfolds with chilling precision, following Dr. Henry Parsons, an epidemiologist, as he races against time to unravel the mystery of a deadly virus that's spreading rapidly around the world. Wright's meticulous research and attention to detail create a sense of realism that is both captivating and unnerving.
Set in a not-so-distant future, "End of October" explores the devastating consequences of a viral outbreak on a global scale. The narrative delves into the complexities of human nature, exposing the best and worst of humanity when faced with an existential threat. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles and emotions add great depth to the story.
While the book is undeniably thought-provoking and expertly written, it may hit too close to home for some readers, especially considering the real-world events of recent times. But that makes it more readable. I am not sure I would have believed it if we hadn't had the events of recent years happen. The bleak and intense atmosphere may not be everyone's cup of tea, and some might find it a bit too heavy for escapism. However, for those who enjoy thought-provoking and immersive pandemic thrillers, "End of October" offers a compelling and unforgettable reading experience that resonates long after the last page. At the end I was speechless and the word 'wow' came to my mind a brillianltly written book with just the right amount of science for me mixed with real life. I must say I loved it and recommend you reading it,.
Title: It Ends With Us
Author: Coleen Hoover
Genre: Romance
Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK
Date Published: 2016
Book Length: 384
Format: Paperback I purchased myself
Star Rating: 5***** I loved it and highly recommend
About Book: Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town where she grew up—she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. And when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life seems too good to be true. Ryle is assertive, stubborn, maybe even a little arrogant. He’s also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily. And the way he looks in scrubs certainly doesn’t hurt. Lily can’t get him out of her head. But Ryle’s complete aversion to relationships is disturbing. Even as Lily finds herself becoming the exception to his “no dating” rule, she can’t help but wonder what made him that way in the first place. As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan—her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.
My Thoughts: It Ends with Us" by Colleen Hoover is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that tackles the complexities of love, loss, and the strength to break free from cycles of pain. The story follows Lily Bloom, a young woman with dreams of a better life, who finds herself entangled in a tumultuous relationship with the charismatic neurosurgeon, Ryle Kincaid. As their love story unfolds, Hoover fearlessly delves into sensitive topics, making this a poignant and thought-provoking read.
The book's greatest strength lies in its characters' authenticity and depth. Lily's journey from vulnerability to empowerment is portrayed with such rawness and honesty that you can't help but be moved. Hoover doesn't shy away from exploring the darker aspects of relationships, and her portrayal of domestic violence and its aftermath is both heart-wrenching and eye-opening.
"It Ends with Us" is not just a story about love but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Hoover beautifully weaves together moments of tenderness, heartache, and hope, leaving a lasting impact on readers. This thoughtfully crafted novel challenges societal norms and encourages important conversations about love, forgiveness, and the courage to break free from toxic patterns. If you're looking for a book that will stay with you long after you've finished it, "It Ends with Us" is an absolute must-read.
Title: Kinship of Secrets
Author: Eugenia Kim
Genre: Historical, Family
Publisher: Bloomsbury Date Published: 2019
Book Length: 320
Format: Paperback I was recommended to read by a family member
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: In 1948 Najin and Calvin Cho, with their young daughter Miran, travel from South Korea to the United States in search of new opportunities. Wary of the challenges ahead, Najin and Calvin make the difficult decision to leave their other daughter, Inja, behind with their extended family; soon, they hope, they will return to her. But then war breaks out in Korea, and there is no end in sight to the separation. Miran grows up in prosperous American suburbia, under the shadow of the daughter left behind, as Inja grapples in her war-torn land with ties to a family she doesn't remember. Najin and Calvin desperately seek a reunion with Inja, but are the bonds of love strong enough to reconnect their family over distance, time and war? And as deep family secrets are revealed, will everything they long for be upended? Told through the alternating perspectives of the distanced sisters, and inspired by a true story, The Kinship of Secrets explores the cruelty of war, the power of hope, and what it means to be a sister.
My Thoughts: Eugenia Kim's "Kinship of Secrets" is a beautifully woven tapestry of emotions that traverses the poignant journey of two Korean sisters separated by war. Set against the backdrop of the Korean War and its aftermath, the novel follows the lives of Inja and Miran, whose paths diverge when their family is torn apart during the escape to the South.
The author's exquisite storytelling skillfully captures the intricacies of family dynamics, cultural identity, and the enduring ties that bind siblings together. As Inja adapts to life in America and Miran remains in Korea, Kim deftly explores the complexities of their individual experiences and how they grapple with their shared history.
"Kinship of Secrets" is not just a tale of separation; it's a celebration of resilience and the unyielding power of love. Kim's prose is evocative and emotionally charged, painting a vivid picture of the characters' struggles and triumphs. The dual narrative adds depth to the storyline, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the sisters' divergent yet interconnected lives.
Title: Bone Baby
Author: Diane Dickson
Genre: Thriller, Mystery, Suspense
Date Published: 2017
Book Length: 247
Format: Kindle I purchased myself
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a lot and recommend
About Book: or many years, Lily and her partner had kept a terrible secret. When her partner dies, this secret becomes her burden alone. Soon it becomes an obsession. Having worked alongside her more flamboyant partner in the publishing industry in London, the more sensitive Lily was used to playing second fiddle in their enigmatic social set. But their nice life hid a dark secret, one that she does not want to carry to her grave. Many years ago, Lily and her partner covered up a crime. They took something precious that didn’t belong to them and lost it. Lily has had to live with the consequences of her actions until she is given the chance to repair the damage she has done. This leads Lily down a dangerous path into the past. Disorientated, paranoid and scared, she uncovers a far graver crime. What she contemplates next is unthinkable.
My Thoughts: Bone Baby by Diane Dickson is a gripping and haunting novel that seamlessly blends elements of mystery, and family drama. With skilful storytelling and vivid imagery, Dickson takes readers on a dark and emotional journey, exploring the depths of human nature and the complexities of family relationships. One of the standout aspects of Bone Baby is the atmospheric setting. Dickson expertly sets the stage, creating a palpable sense of foreboding and unease. The author's attention to detail is commendable, immersing readers in a world that is both eerie and captivating. The characters in Bone Baby are complex and multi-dimensional. The pacing of the novel is steady, with Dickson slowly building tension and suspense as the story unfolds. However, there are a few instances where the plot could have been tightened, as certain subplots and secondary characters feel underdeveloped. Additionally, the ending, while satisfying, could have been further expanded to provide a more conclusive resolution to some of the lingering questions raised throughout the story. Despite these minor shortcomings, Bone Baby is a captivating and engrossing read that will appeal to fans of psychological thrillers Diane Dickson's writing style is atmospheric and evocative, drawing readers into a world where secrets lurk beneath the surface and the past refuses to stay buried. In conclusion, Bone Baby is a tale that skilfully blends mystery, and family drama. Diane Dickson's ability to create a vivid atmosphere and compelling characters makes this novel a memorable and thought-provoking read.
Title: A Single Step
Author: Georgia Rose
Genre: Romance
Series: The Grayson Trilogy
Date Published: 2015
Book length: 289
Format: Kindle I purchased myself
Star Rating: 4**** I liked it a Lot and recommend.
About Book: A woman wracked with grief. A man with a troubled past. Will trust build a bridge between them or will it be destroyed by dark secrets? Shattered by her daughter's death and tormented by her husband's infidelity, Emma Grayson seeks refuge in solitude. As she slowly re-enters the real world, she takes on work at the sprawling Melton Estate’s stables. Initially distracted by her painful healing process, she comes to realise that the property’s handsome manager carries his own sadness… When Emma is thrown from her horse and badly injured, Trent provides tender, selfless care. She doesn’t want to appear ungrateful for the lonely ex-RAF man’s support, but her anxiety keeps her silent. However, after his secretive past surfaces, and events take a dramatic turn, she can't help but feel betrayed once again. Will Emma ever find inner peace and love, or is she destined to live with only heartache and pain?
My Thoughts: I am not normally drawn to romance books, but I want to change things up a bit this year and I am glad I did. Georgia Rose's "A Single Step" is a heartwarming and captivating romance novel that takes readers on a journey of love, healing, and self-discovery. The story revolves around Emma, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with Ethan, a handsome and enigmatic man with his own share of past struggles.
The author skilfully weaves together themes of second chances and personal growth, making "A Single Step" a story that tugs at the heartstrings. Emma's emotional journey from a place of pain to finding hope and love again is beautifully depicted, allowing readers to connect with her on a profound level.
The chemistry between Emma and Ethan is palpable, and their relationship develops at a natural pace, making it all the more believable and satisfying. The book strikes a perfect balance between romance and personal development, making it more than just a love story.
Georgia Rose's writing is engaging and evocative, making it easy to get lost in the world she has created. The supporting characters add depth to the narrative, enhancing the overall reading experience.
In conclusion, "A Single Step" is a heartfelt and emotionally charged romance novel that will leave you rooting for love's redemptive power. If you're looking for a touching and engaging read that will leave you with a warm heart and a smile, this book is a perfect choice.
Title: Death By A Honey Bee
Author: Abigail Keam
Genre: Mystery
Series: A Josiah Reynolds Mystery
Date Published: 2020
Book Length: 298
Format: Kindle I purchased myself
Star Rating: 3*** I liked it, It’s OK
About Book: Josiah Reynolds is a beekeeper trying to stay financially afloat by selling honey at the farmers' market. She finds her world turned upside down when a man is found dead in her bee yard, only to discover the victim is her nemesis. The police are calling the brutal death murder and Josiah is the number one suspect! Fighting an unknown enemy in the glamorous world of Thoroughbreds, oak-cured bourbon, and antebellum mansions, Josiah struggles to uncover the truth in a land that keeps its secrets well. Josiah faces the world with sarcastic humour and a number of quirky, oddball friends that can only be found in the Bluegrass town of Lexington, the heart of Kentucky horse country. Some mysteries end with a bang, some are not solved at all and the first one ends with a cliff hanger, but they always entertain in the sassy, humorous, and suspenseful world as Josiah goes about sleuthing. Like Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, Josiah observes the world about her and solves even the most troubling cases.
My Thoughts: Death by a Honey Bee" introduces readers to a charming world of honey, hives, and murder mysteries. Set in a picturesque Kentucky countryside, the story follows Josiah Reynolds, an amateur beekeeper and sleuth, as she stumbles upon a series of suspicious deaths in her small town.
Abigail Keam's writing style captures the essence of a cozy mystery, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws you into the quaint world of beekeeping and amateur detective work. The honeybee theme adds a unique and refreshing touch to the plot, showcasing the author's knowledge and passion for the subject.
While the book promises an intriguing premise, I found the pacing to be a bit uneven, with certain parts dragging on while others raced ahead. Additionally, the characters, while likeable, lacked some depth, leaving me wanting more emotional connection with their struggles and motivations.
Overall, "Death by a Honey Bee" has the potential to be a delightful and engaging cozy mystery, especially for readers with an interest in beekeeping and rural settings. However, it falls short of reaching its full buzz-worthy potential due to pacing issues and character development. If you're looking for a light and easy read with a unique twist, this book might still be worth a taste, but it might not satisfy readers seeking a more immersive and intricate mystery experience.
Title: We Need To Talk About Kevin
Author: Lionel Shriver
Genre: Thriller, Psychological, Mystery
Publisher: Serpents Tail
Published Date: 2010
Book Length: 496
Format: Paperback was given to me as a present through aboxofstories.com
Star Rating: 2** It’s not really for me
About Book: Eva never really wanted to be a mother; certainly not the mother of a boy named Kevin who murdered seven of his fellow high school students, a cafeteria worker and a teacher who had tried to befriend him. Now, two years after her son's horrific rampage, Eva comes to terms with her role as Kevin's mother in a series of startlingly direct correspondences with her absent husband Franklyn about their son's upbringing. Fearing that her own shortcomings may have shaped what her son has become, she confesses to a deep, long-standing ambivalence about motherhood. How much is her fault? In Lionel Shriver's hands this sensational, chilling and memorable story of a woman who raised a monster becomes a metaphor for the larger tragedy - the tragedy of a country where everything works, nobody starves, and anything can be bought but a sense of purpose.
My Thoughts: We Need to Talk about Kevin" by Lionel Shriver is undoubtedly a book that could leave its mark on whoever picks this book up. But it was not for me. While the novel delved into a harrowing and deeply disturbing exploration of parental struggle and the consequences of unchecked emotions, it unfortunately fell short in certain crucial aspects. The narrative revolved around the complicated relationship between Eva Khatchadourian, a mother, and her sociopathic son, Kevin. Shriver's bold decision to present the story through Eva's letters to her husband adds an intimate touch, providing a glimpse into her troubled mind and the emotional turmoil she faced. The book unapologetically tackled complex themes, such as maternal ambivalence, guilt, and the nature-nurture debate, offering readers a chance to ponder the darker side of human nature. However, despite its compelling premise, the pacing of the novel was a significant downfall. The narrative lingered too long on mundane details, causing the story to lose its momentum. As a result, the plot became tediously slow, testing my patience as I read it and overshadowing the emotional impact it could have had. Furthermore, the character development felt disappointingly one-sided. While Eva's perspective is presented in great depth, other characters remained woefully underdeveloped, leaving me with an incomplete understanding of their motives and actions. This lack of depth made it challenging to empathise with any of the characters, resulting in, what I thought, was a detached reading experience. Additionally, the novel's writing style felt excessively verbose and pretentious, which detracted from the raw emotions that should have been its driving force. Instead of evoking genuine empathy, the elaborate prose often came across as self-indulgent and distancing. Moreover, the conclusion felt rushed and unsatisfying, leaving too many loose ends untied. After investing time in a story of such dark intensity, I felt it deserved a more comprehensive and fulfilling resolution. In conclusion, the book is undoubtedly thought-provoking with an arresting premise. However, its sluggish pacing, underdeveloped characters, self-indulgent prose, and an unsatisfactory conclusion hindered its potential for greatness for me. While it did provoke introspection on the complexities of parenthood and the human psyche, it ultimately fell short of being the transformative masterpiece it could have been. Note: Despite my reservations, I acknowledge that others might resonate with the book's unique approach and find it more enjoyable than I did.
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