WEEKLY BOOK RECS: 6 book reviews and suggestions every week
Summer is the season of warm days, starry nights, and fleeting romances that leave lasting memories. The idea of a summer fling gives us images of sandy beaches, sun-drenched afternoons, and the excitement of meeting someone new in a picturesque setting. This weekly reads edition captures the vibe of summer love, mixing romance with the unique magic of the season. Featuring both mainstream hits and hidden indie gems, these summer fling reads offer a perfect escape into summer's passionate embrace.
"People We Meet on Vacation" by Emily Henry
Our Score: 4.5/5
This delightful novel follows Poppy and Alex, best friends who take a vacation together every summer. Over the years, their platonic relationship begins to blur into something more during their trips. Set against various picturesque backdrops, each destination adds a layer to their evolving romance. Henry’s witty dialogue and relatable characters make the story engaging and heartwarming. The alternating timelines between past vacations and the present keep the narrative dynamic, though some might find the constant back-and-forth a bit dizzying. Overall, it's a refreshing take on the friends-to-lovers trope with a perfect summer vibe.
"The Summer of Broken Rules" by K.L. Walther (Indie)
Our Score: 4.2/5
In this charming indie novel, Meredith heads to Martha's Vineyard for a family wedding, still mourning her sister's death. She reconnects with her extended family and meets the groomsman, Wit. What starts as a distraction soon turns into a heartfelt summer fling. Walther’s writing captures the essence of summer with detailed settings and emotional depth. The family dynamics and personal growth themes are beautifully woven into the romance. Some readers may find the pacing a bit slow initially, but the satisfying ending makes the journey worthwhile.
"The Summer I Turned Pretty" by Jenny Han
Our Score: 4.0/5
Belly has spent every summer at the beach with her family and their friends, the Fisher boys. This summer, everything changes as Belly finds herself at the center of a love triangle. Han’s writing is light and engaging, capturing the turbulence of teenage emotions and the bittersweetness of growing up. The coastal setting adds a nostalgic touch to the story, making it a quintessential summer read. While the plot is somewhat predictable, the relatable characters and heartfelt moments make it an enjoyable escape.
"Love and Olives" by Jenna Evans Welch
Our Score: 4.3/5
Set on the idyllic Greek island of Santorini, this novel follows Liv, who reconnects with her estranged father while searching for the lost city of Atlantis. Amidst the stunning scenery, she meets Theo, and their budding romance adds a sweet layer to her emotional journey. Welch’s descriptions of the Greek landscape are vivid and enchanting, transporting readers straight to the Mediterranean. The book balances themes of family reconciliation and romance, though some may find the storyline a bit slow-paced. Nonetheless, it's a delightful read for those craving a summer escape.
"Beach Read" by Emily Henry
Our Score: 4.6/5
In this engaging romance, January Andrews, a romance writer, and Augustus Everett, a literary fiction author, find themselves as neighbors in beach houses. Both suffering from writer’s block, they challenge each other to swap genres for the summer. As they delve into each other's writing worlds, sparks fly. Henry’s witty banter and deep character development make this book a standout. The beach setting and the interplay between the characters’ past and present struggles add depth to the lighthearted romance. Some might find the premise slightly contrived, but the execution is flawless, making it a perfect summer read.
"Summer of '69" by Elin Hilderbrand (Indie)
Our Score: 4.0/5
This indie novel takes readers back to the summer of 1969, following the Levin family as they navigate a tumultuous season on Nantucket. With each family member dealing with personal issues, the story weaves in historical events, adding a rich backdrop to their summer experiences. Hilderbrand’s evocative writing captures the essence of the era and the island setting beautifully. The multiple perspectives provide a comprehensive view of the family's dynamics, though some readers might find the numerous subplots a bit overwhelming. Overall, it's a nostalgic and engrossing summer read.
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