Back in early June I put together a list of books I had on my TBR (to be read) list for the summer. It was lofty for me, but I knew I wanted to get in as many books as I could before school started back. Well, sadly summer is coming to a close, and I wanted to see how my actual book reading held up to my TBR list.
I had six books on my list for this summer. I’ve read four and in the middle of the fifth. Not a total win, but still pretty good seeing as how Outlander was one of them. Here’s how I did.
Outlander– Didn’t even pick it up. I was so busy with other books and shorter stories, that I set it down again.
Lilac Girls– I don’t actually own this book and am still on the waiting list on the Overdrive app for the library. I know they have the book in the library, but I decided to wait until it’s my turn for the ebook again.
Where’d You Go, Bernadette?– Read this one and loved it so much. The story was so unique and interesting, and the way it is written, as letters and emails and such makes it a quick fun read. I highly recommend this book. But hurry and read it before the movie comes out in August!
Daisy Jones and the Six– I was in line for the audiobook on the overdrive app, and I could not recommend that way to read this story more. The cast of actors on this one made each voice very distinct, and I wasn’t confused who was talking at any point. Two of the actors on the list were Benjamin Bratt and Jenifer Grey. I finished it in a few days and haven’t stopped thinking about it since. Taylor Jenkins Reid has an excellent way of leaving the twist until the very end. Not a bad twist, just one that makes you go, “Oh wow!” I think you’ll like this one. It was very much like Almost Famous in that it followed a band on a tour and all the crazy that ensues. I think if you liked Almost Famous then you’ll love this one. Especially if you listen to the audiobook. And if you haven’t seen Almost Famous, then we must have a movie night. It’s one of the greats!
Next Year in Havana– I finished this book in June for book club. I loved, loved, loved it! Could not recommend this author more or this story. The imagery is perfection. It’s as if you’re there. The character development unfolds just at the right time in the story, and you get so attached to them. I loved it.
When We Left Cuba– This is the second book to Next Year in Havana. It follows Beatriz, another Perez sister, and her quest to kill Fidel Castro. Dare I say this one was better than the first? I’m currently reading this one and do not want to put it down. The writing is so descriptive, and I cannot get enough.
Sunset Beach– I read it for book club, and the best I can describe it is to say it was like one of those really bad Hallmark mystery movies. It was too long, and the story was ridiculous. It was very far fetched and not her best work. I love Mary Kay Andrews. My favorite by her is The Fixer Upper. If you’re interested in checking her out, start there.
I’m next in line for another audiobook soon, so I’m looking forward to diving into many more of those during the school year. I think I did pretty well this summer. I’ve already met my book goal for the year, which was 12. I’ve read 15 and not ready to stop.
What did y’all end up reading this summer? Anything I need to put on my list? And if you read any of these, let’s chat! I love to discuss books and their characters. Leave your thoughts in the comments.
