Summer. The perfect time to stretch out at the pool with the sun and a good book. Okay, this may just be me, but I have made it my mission to read as much as I can this summer. I’ve read by the pool, in the pool (no books were harmed in this process), on my couch, in my car, in my bed, etc.; I’ve even read while in line at the coffee shop! You may not be a teacher with the summer off, or you’re a teacher with only a few weeks left before work begins, but it never hurts to pick up a good novel. Here are 5 books to read right now!
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Rating: 4/5 Books, Recommended Age: 15+ for language and sexual content.
This book (and soon-to-be-released film) stars Kya, aka “Marsh Girl.” Throughout the book, you learn about her life in the marshes of North Carolina and her yearning for love. But when a boy dies, Kya is sought out and accused of murder. Did she do it? This book will keep you up because you have to finish it; I really couldn’t put it down! A great summer read that is part romance and part looking into the mystery that nature brings.
A Court of Thorns & Roses by Sarah J. Maas
Rating: 5/5 Books, Recommended Age: 17+ for sexual content, violence, & strong language.
Okay, listen up: this book may not be for everyone. But it’s good. A fantasy tale that is reminiscent of East (by Edith Pattou) and Beauty and the Beast, as well as Fae fantasy novels. A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR) introduces us to Feyre (Fey-ruh), a human who kills a wolf for its skin. There’s just one problem: he wasn’t a wolf, but a Fae who shape-shifts into a wolf. Oops. Angry about the murder, we meet Tamlin, the High Fae of the Spring Court of the land of Prythian, who demands a life for a life. Feyre goes with him, and that’s where the story truly begins. Filled with strange lands, customs, dark lords, and creatures, A Court of Thorns and Roses is the perfect fantasy novel for those who love both fantasy and romance.
If the Shoe Fits by Julie Murphy (Amazon, $14.95)
Rating: 3/5 Books, Recommended Age: 15+ for sexual references & mild language.
This romantic comedy features a spunky but shy, plus-size MC who has a passion for shoes. After arriving in LA to be with her stepmom and family, Cindy suddenly finds herself on a reality tv show! What will happen? Well, I’m not one to give spoilers, but there are some fabulous shoes, a Prince Charming, and hilarious moments to be found throughout the book.
I also appreciate that the author’s MC is a plus-size woman who doesn’t let anyone hold her back from living her dreams, even when all seems lost. I gave this book a 3 only because the story moves so fast. However, I ate this book up in 3 days, although you could read this sweet tale in 1 if you can stay in bed all day.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Rating: 4/5 Books, Recommended Age: 16+ for sexual content and language.
Book Lovers is the usual enemies-to-lovers trope, aka the perfect poolside read. Straight-laced Nora Stephens is the book editor everyone loves to hate. When her sister wants to go on a trip to her favorite romance novel’s real-life town, Nora surprisingly agrees. While there, Nora runs into her nemesis Charlie, and the spats and unbeknownst to them, angry flirting. Will this couple end up together? I read this book at the pool, in the car, in bed; pretty much everywhere. This book is perfect for the enemies-to-lovers reader who is looking for an enjoyable (even if a bit predictable) story.
Austenland by Shannon Hale
Rating: 4/5 Books, Recommended Age: 15+ for sexual innuendo & some language.
I was one of those people who saw the film adaptation of this book before I listened to the book. And yes, I listened to it, although I enjoyed it! Austenland is all about Jane, a plain thirty-something in love with all things Austen (especially Mr. Darcy). Jane dives right in when she gets the opportunity to live her fantasy in a full-immersion Austen experience. Filled with hilarious moments, tight corsets, and tension & strife, this light-hearted rom-com will delight any Austenite or romance lover!
BONUS!!!
I HAVE FOUND IT. The best book light ever. Seriously, the Glocusent USB Book Light is lightweight, has different brightnesses and styles (warm, cool, etc.), and comes in more than 2 colors. Plus, it recharges via USB, so you don't have to worry about new batteries! You can find it here.
