I experienced my first reading slump ever in the month of July.
Up until this point, I had somewhat scoffed at the idea of a reading slump? Not feeling like reading? I could never! Oh, but apparently I could. And I did. It was no fun to pick up a book and have zero desire to read through it, and halfway through the month, I realized that the reason behind my slump was the books themselves.
Instead of getting frustrated and trying to grapple for every book on my shelf, I picked very strategically. I strayed from my scheduled TBR list for the month, and read what felt the most natural and enjoyable for me! This helped a ton, and by the end of the month, I still ended up surpassing my reading goal. I didn’t push myself too hard, and thankfully, once I passed my slump, the rest of the books I read were super enjoyable (all of my five-star reads were the ones that helped me get through this dumb slump)!
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The 11 Books I Read in July
If you’re interested in reading my reviews as they go live, follow my Goodreads account, and take a look at my bookstagram – where I’ll share reviews on stories and on my feed!
Queen of Nothing by Holly Black
Goodreads Synopsis:
He will be destruction of the crown and the ruination of the throne. Power is much easier to acquire than it is to hold onto. Jude learned this lesson when she released her control over the wicked king, Cardan, in exchange for immeasurable power. Now as the exiled mortal Queen of Faerie, Jude is powerless and left reeling from Cardanβs betrayal. She bides her time determined to reclaim everything he took from her. Opportunity arrives in the form of her deceptive twin sister, Taryn, whose mortal life is in peril. Jude must risk venturing back into the treacherous Faerie Court, and confront her lingering feelings for Cardan, if she wishes to save her sister. But Elfhame is not as she left it. War is brewing. As Jude slips deep within enemy lines she becomes ensnared in the conflictβs bloody politics. And, when a dormant yet powerful curse is unleashed, panic spreads throughout the land, forcing her to choose between her ambition and her humanityβ¦
rating: β β β β β
** spoiler alert ** What a finale! I feel as though my reactions to this book were entirely different than the previous two. I like to say I’m incredibly picky with my faerietales because they’re my favorite fantasy sub-genre. The Folk of the Air trilogy as a whole is something that I now wholeheartedly appreciate. While the first book felt boring and repetitive, the second book captured my attention, and this third book wowed me! All the loose ends were wrapped up. I didn’t feel as though there were plot holes or missing details. From Jude and Carden’s relationship, to the Bomb/Roach/Ghost trio, to Nicasia and the Undersea, and even to Vivi and Heather – everything settled into place. I’ll admit the plot felt predictable to me, and I wasn’t necessarily hanging on the edge of my seat, because I assumed everything that would happen next, which is my reasoning for 4 stars. All-in-all, it was an enjoyable end to this series!
Wedding Night By Sophie Kinsella
Goodreads Synopsis:
Lottie just knows that her boyfriend is going to propose, but then his big question involves a trip abroad β not a trip down the aisle. Completely crushed, Lottie reconnects with an old flame, and they decide to take drastic action. No dates, no moving in together, theyβll just get married . . . right now. Her sister, Fliss, thinks Lottie is making a terrible mistake, and will do anything to stop her. But Lottie is determined to say βI do,β for better, or for worse
rating: β β β β β
Kinsella does it again, friends. Her way around whimsical romantic comedies is like no other. This book was exactly what I needed it to be: cheesy, predictable, and fun. It was the most “scandalous” of all the books I’ve read by the author, but I honestly enjoyed how it played out. Keeping the new bride and groom from having sex for days on end became absolutely hilarious, if not a little frustrating even as a reader! Overall, I quite enjoyed the story and how it concluded. It would definitely be an excellent beach read!
Last Tang Standing by Lauren Ho
Goodreads Synopsis:
At thirty-three, Andrea Tang is living the dream: she has a successful career as a lawyer, a posh condo, and a clutch of fun-loving friends who are always in the know about Singapore’s hottest clubs and restaurants. All she has to do is make partner at her law firm and she will have achieved everything she (and her mother) has ever worked for. So what if she’s poised to be the last unmarried member of her generation of the Tang clan? She doesn’t need a man to feel fulfilled, no matter what her meddling relatives have to say about it. But for a dutiful Chinese-Malaysian daughter, the weight of familial expectations is hard to ignore. And so are the men life keeps throwing in Andrea’s path. Men like Suresh Aditparan, her annoyingly attractive rival for partner and the last man she should be spending time with, and Eric Deng, a wealthy entrepreneur whose vision for their future is more lavish than she could have imagined. With her workplace competition growing ever more intense, her friends bringing dramas of their own to her door, and her family scrutinizing her every romantic prospect, Andrea finds herself stretched to the breaking point. And she can’t help but wonder: In the endless tug-of-war between pleasing others and pleasing herself, is there room for everyone to win?
rating: β β β ββ
Initial thoughts when beginning the book: “Wow, this is basically Crazy Rich Asians.” Final thoughts when finishing the book: “Wow, that was basically Crazy Rich Asians.” Okay, hear me out – I ADORE Crazy Rich Asians, and I even wanted more books in the series. I was excited to read another book that had similar tones. Set in Singapore, tons of rich people, catty relationships, dramatic romances, sex, revenge, the works. I enjoyed each and every one of those elements in Last Tang Standing – and if I hadn’t read CRA, this book would’ve gotten five stars from me. It was quirky and upbeat and interesting. It just felt… already done. The actual plot itself wasn’t identical to CRA, but the themes were just SO alike, it almost felt as though it was copied. That is really the only thing keeping me from giving absolute raves all around. I feel torn, ya know?
Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Goodreads Synopsis:
Ketterdam: a bustling hub of international trade where anything can be had for the right priceβand no one knows that better than criminal prodigy Kaz Brekker. Kaz is offered a chance at a deadly heist that could make him rich beyond his wildest dreams. But he canβt pull it off alone. . . . A convict with a thirst for revenge. A sharpshooter who canβt walk away from a wager. A runaway with a privileged past. A spy known as the Wraith. A Heartrender using her magic to survive the slums. A thief with a gift for unlikely escapes. Kazβs crew is the only thing that might stand between the world and destructionβif they donβt kill each other first.
rating: β β β ββ
I love a good heist story. Oceans 11, Now You See Me, Tower Heist, etc. However, one of the things that differentiates a movie from a book is that when you’re watching the backstory, you’re entertained. You get to see the whole plan come to fruition. All those tiny details that would seem inconsequential in a book are way more thrilling to view. I had to keep reminding myself of this while reading Six of Crows. I think, had it been a movie, I would’ve been truly entertained. The concept was brilliant and the characters were really intriguing. I just wished it was a little more fast-paced. I found myself getting sleepy each time I sat down to read, and it wasn’t because of a lack of interest, but because it wasn’t quick enough to keep my attention. Apparently I also did things backwards, because you’re supposed to start with Shadow and Bone and read that trilogy before reading the Six of Crows trilogy. I didn’t know that. I think I was missing a decent amount of information from the original books in the Grishaverse. My plan is to now go back and read those before moving on to Crooked Kingdom. Hopefully that will sort things out. If you like a slower read, this will be ideal for you. It’s great when you want to take your time and just really dive into a longer, darker novel. If you’re like me though, you may want to choose something that’s a bit snappier.
The Switch by Beth O’Leary
Goodreads Synopsis:
Eileen is sick of being 79. Leena’s tired of life in her twenties. Maybe it’s time they swapped places… When overachiever Leena Cotton is ordered to take a two-month sabbatical after blowing a big presentation at work, she escapes to her grandmother Eileen’s house for some overdue rest. Eileen is newly single and about to turn eighty. She’d like a second chance at love, but her tiny Yorkshire village doesn’t offer many eligible gentlemen. Once Leena learns of Eileen’s romantic predicament, she proposes a solution: a two-month swap. Eileen can live in London and look for love. Meanwhile Leena will look after everything in rural Yorkshire. But with gossiping neighbours and difficult family dynamics to navigate up north, and trendy London flatmates and online dating to contend with in the city, stepping into one another’s shoes proves more difficult than either of them expected. Leena learns that a long-distance relationship isn’t as romantic as she hoped it would be, and then there is the annoyingly perfect – and distractingly handsome – school teacher, who keeps showing up to outdo her efforts to impress the local villagers. Back in London, Eileen is a huge hit with her new neighbours, but is her perfect match nearer home than she first thought?
rating: β β β β β
** audio-ARC provided by Net Galley ** I’m currently wiping tears from my eyes as I finish up this book. What an emotional ending! However, it would be silly of me to begin at the end, so let me head back to the opening of The Switch: We meet a tired, burnt-out Leena Cotton, as she struggles to meet work expectations and experiences panic attacks due to the stress of living in high-stakes London and constantly being on-the-go since her sister’s death. In sweet, rural Yorkshire, Leena’s grandmother, Eileen, is feeling stagnant in her later years, after a nasty divorce. She wants love and passion and something more than what she currently has. They decide to swap lives. Not “Freaky Friday”-style, but truly move into each other’s homes and even switch mobile phones. Leena is tossed into the quirky neighborhood watch, and I found myself bubbling over with laughter as she dealt with her grandmother’s cranky, elderly friends. I also cackled many times as Eileen tried to dive into online dating and figuring out a smartphone. There were comical mishaps aplenty. However, the real reason this book hooked me was because of the emotion. Yes, there’s a beautiful, loving bond between grandmother and granddaughter. However, a lot of that strength is tied to their loss of Carla, Leena’s sister, and the difficulty Leena has relating with her mother, Marian. O’Leary did an incredible job depicting life after loss, the mess of family relationships, truly working through grief, and more. I found myself tearing up more than once, and was really impacted by how well these themes were handled. Nothing felt sugar-coated. There were also the fantastic romantic elements that had me squealing for joy, but I didn’t feel like they completely ruled this book, which I actually ended up appreciating more than expected. There was some appropriate cheesiness, but overall, this book was like a warm mug of coffee: comforting and energizing. It made me want to hug my mom and move to the country. Props to O’Leary for knocking another one out of the park!
In Five Years by Rebecca Serle
Goodreads Synopsis:
Where do you see yourself in five years? When Type-A Manhattan lawyer Dannie Cohan is asked this question at the most important interview of her career, she has a meticulously crafted answer at the ready. Later, after nailing her interview and accepting her boyfriend’s marriage proposal, Dannie goes to sleep knowing she is right on track to achieve her five-year plan. But when she wakes up, sheβs suddenly in a different apartment, with a different ring on her finger, and beside a very different man. The television news is on in the background, and she can just make out the scrolling date. Itβs the same nightβDecember 15βbut 2025, five years in the future. After a very intense, shocking hour, Dannie wakes again, at the brink of midnight, back in 2020. She canβt shake what has happened. It certainly felt much more than merely a dream, but she isnβt the kind of person who believes in visions. That nonsense is only charming coming from free-spirited types, like her lifelong best friend, Bella. Determined to ignore the odd experience, she files it away in the back of her mind. That is, until four-and-a-half years later, when by chance Dannie meets the very same man from her long-ago vision. Brimming with joy and heartbreak, In Five Years is an unforgettable love story that reminds us of the power of loyalty, friendship, and the unpredictable nature of destiny.
rating: β β β β β
I shocked myself, finishing this book so quickly – but once I began, I couldn’t put it down. In Five Years totally surprised me. The story wasn’t anything like I expected it to be. When it started out with a fancy proposal and a somewhat sexy dream of what the future could hold, I wasn’t sure whether to expect magical realism or a totally predictable and cheesy romance plot. In my opinion, it was neither. Rather than focusing primarily on Dannie’s romantic relationships, it morphed into a beautiful platonic love story – with her childhood best friend, Bella. There was so much depth throughout the plot – from Bella’s diagnosis to the DUMBO apartment, to the wedding planning, and more. This book continued to surprise me in the best ways possible. “I saw what was coming, but I did not see what it would mean.” This quote really sums up the content in this book. Grief entwined with love, from the past – and into the future. This story was excellently written and poignant.
The Bromance Book Club by Lyssa Kay Adams
Goodreads Synopsis:
The first rule of book club: You don’t talk about book club. Nashville Legends second baseman Gavin Scott’s marriage is in major league trouble. Heβs recently discovered a humiliating secret: his wife Thea has always faked the Big O. When he loses his cool at the revelation, itβs the final straw on their already strained relationship. Thea asks for a divorce, and Gavin realizes heβs let his pride and fear get the better of him. Welcome to the Bromance Book Club. Distraught and desperate, Gavin finds help from an unlikely source: a secret romance book club made up of Nashville’s top alpha men. With the help of their current read, a steamy Regency titled Courting the Countess, the guys coach Gavin on saving his marriage. But it’ll take a lot more than flowery words and grand gestures for this hapless Romeo to find his inner hero and win back the trust of his wife.
rating: β β β β β
This book has done what few rom-com books have done before: it told the story primarily from the male lead’s perspective. I was pleasantly surprised by the how much I enjoyed this. I think I expected more raunch (there was plenty of it, but it didn’t show up until much later than “usual” for a book like this) and for it to be way too cheesy. Instead, it was hilarious, witty, and even insightful. I leaned over at one point while reading to tell my husband, “maybe you should read this too.” The concept of a grown man joining a book club full of his baseball teammates to read romance novels in hopes to save his marriage was truly brilliant. It had me cracking up on plenty of occasions, and the totally feminist quotes from his peers were excellent too. Very well-done!
Ashen Shadows by Ewe Linka
Goodreads Synopsis:
The land of Valeis was once home for all Drishti β folk with the ability to control people. Since Isla became Queen, she used her power to create an army so loyal, it would burn down villages to seek out the last Drishti alive. For years, the kingdom has been riddled with a faint memory of what life used to be, replaced by cruelty and deception. Ashen Shadows is a story of three young women and their journey to end the Queenβs treacherous reign: a Drishti who has been hiding all her life, a common thief who has always served her own purpose, a princess who has never disobeyed her mother. And it all begins with a letter from someone who knows the whole storyβ¦
rating: β β β β β
I am all about a powerful female lead, and this book had THREE of them! The moment I finished this fantasy novel, I wanted to read it over again, just to find all the hidden messages I may have missed the first time around. It was beautiful and haunting, with a great plot twist towards the end. Thereβs action, romance, magic, and MORE! Something for everyone to enjoy. Do yourself a favor and pick up this novel to support a self-published author + dive into a fantastic new world!
Scythe by Neal Shusterman
Goodreads Synopsis:
Thou shalt kill. A world with no hunger, no disease, no war, no misery. Humanity has conquered all those things, and has even conquered death. Now scythes are the only ones who can end lifeβand they are commanded to do so, in order to keep the size of the population under control. Citra and Rowan are chosen to apprentice to a scytheβa role that neither wants. These teens must master the βartβ of taking life, knowing that the consequence of failure could mean losing their own.
rating: β β β β β
In the past, I’ve found it challenging to connect with dystopian stories, or find them exhilarating rather than depressing. However, that was certainly not the case with Scythe. I experienced my first reading slump of my entire life during the month of July. None of the fantasy/sci-fi books I read were resonating with me, and that was really disheartening, considering those are my go-to genres. When I picked up Scythe, I worried that I would deal with the same thing all over again. However, after a few chapters, I realized I was SO intrigued by the chemistry between Citra and Rowan, the teachings of Scythe Faraday, and even the tales told about the mass gleanings and beyond. The story picked up really quickly, and I found myself 100% HOOKED. There wasn’t just one major plot twist – there were several – and I loved it. A few of them I sort of saw coming, but there were moments that had my jaw dropping straight to the floor. Every second of this book kept me on my toes, and I can’t WAIT to read Thunderhead next!
Undercover Bromance by Lyssa Kay Adams
Goodreads Synopsis:
Braden Mack thinks reading romance novels makes him an expert in love, but heβll soon discover that real life is better than fiction. Liv Papandreas has a dream job as a sous chef at Nashvilleβs hottest restaurant. Too bad the celebrity chef owner is less than charming behind kitchen doors. After she catches him harassing a young hostess, she confronts him and gets fired. Liv vows revenge, but sheβll need assistance to take on the powerful chef. Unfortunately, that means turning to Braden Mack. When Livβs blackballed from the restaurant scene, the charismatic nightclub entrepreneur offers to help expose her ex-boss, but she is suspicious of his motives. Heβll need to call in reinforcements: the Bromance Book Club. Inspired by the romantic suspense novel theyβre reading, the book club assists Liv in setting up a sting operation to take down the chef. But theyβre just as eager to help Mack figure out the way to Livβs heart… even though sheβs determined to squelch the sparks between them before she gets burned.
rating: β ββββ
Oh, how I wanted to love this as much as The Bromance Book Club, but alas, I did not. Not only was it my least favorite trope in the world: enemies to lovers – but it also felt forced throughout the entire story. I was immediately on board with the takedown of Royce (TW // sexual harassment), but then quickly became frustrated with the way Liv was responding to the other women who were victims. Naturally, it all “worked out” in the end, because… happy endings… but it didn’t feel real to me. I was also totally turned off by the way Liv completely railed on stuck up, arrogant men the entire time, yet whenever Mack showed any signs of being soft or gentle, she would complain or roast him for being less of a man. Like… pick a stance and stick with it, sista. It was filled with steamy sex scenes – including one that was… PATRIOTIC? Excuse me? No one wants to hear how the rockets glared and bombs burst in air and all that crap, while people are having sex. So weird. Needless to say, this fell beyond flat for me. It was practically inverted. The only saving grace was The Russian. I felt like I was five years old, laughing at fart jokes.
A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab
Goodreads Synopsis:
Kell is one of the last Antariβmagicians with a rare, coveted ability to travel between parallel Londons; Red, Grey, White, and, once upon a time, Black. Kell was raised in ArnesβRed Londonβand officially serves the Maresh Empire as an ambassador, traveling between the frequent bloody regime changes in White London and the court of George III in the dullest of Londons, the one without any magic left to see. Unofficially, Kell is a smuggler, servicing people willing to pay for even the smallest glimpses of a world they’ll never see. It’s a defiant hobby with dangerous consequences, which Kell is now seeing firsthand. After an exchange goes awry, Kell escapes to Grey London and runs into Delilah Bard, a cut-purse with lofty aspirations. She first robs him, then saves him from a deadly enemy, and finally forces Kell to spirit her to another world for a proper adventure. Now perilous magic is afoot, and treachery lurks at every turn. To save all of the worlds, they’ll first need to stay alive.
rating: β β β β β
Where do I even begin with this incredible book? Alright, I gave away my thoughts already by stating that it’s incredible, but I seriously can’t help it. I fell in love with the story and the multiple Londons so quickly. Not only did this book immediately give us a sneak peek of the fact that there would be trouble from Black London (foreshadowing, anyone?), but it also had Kell stealing my heart in a matter of moments. I’ve had a hard time picking a “book boyfriend” over the years, but I could definitely give Kell that title now. I loved his ruggedness, his quick-wittedness, and his ability to get out of trouble almost as quickly as he got into it (with a little help from Lila, obviously). And speaking of Lila – she’s crazy badass and I love her wild and reckless ways. At first, I found her a bit infuriating, but then I realized that it was her intensity that made me actually enjoy her character. Overall, this book was phenomenal, and I am frantically scrabbling to get my hands on the sequel.
Related Posts
What I Read in June // What I Read in May // What I Read in April
Have you read any of the books I enjoyed in July?
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Jenny in Neverland says
I really want to read The Bromance Book Club. I’ve heard some great things about that one. And The Switch. Book slumps are AWFUL. When I’m in one, I always tend to re-read an old favourite because it’s a book I already know I love.
Stephanie Whitman says
It was an excellent book. Very funny and the perfect summer read! I only wish I’d enjoyed the sequel as much. However, that tends to happen for me when it comes to contemporary fiction/rom coms. I often love the first and then not the second! Ah, but The Switch was a good exception. While not a sequel, I hoped to enjoy it as much as The Flatshare – and I did! Old favorites are a good idea too, though I don’t get in the mood to do re-reads super often.
Shirsha says
So many great recommendations in this list! I am loving the sound of A Darker Shade of Magic.
I enjoyed The Flatshare a lot more than The Switch, but having said that, The Switch is a sweet, escapist book in its own right. π
Also, your photography is amazing!
Stephanie Whitman says
A Darker Shade of Magic was SO unique and fascinating. It definitely gripped my attention from beginning to end. I kept wanting to read it throughout the day, and looking forward to picking it up, which is how I know it’s a good book. I’ll admit The Flatshare was my favorite of the two as well, but I thought The Switch was really precious – and I loved how different it was, focusing on the two women, rather than the focus being primarily on any romantic relationship. Thank you for the encouragement on my photos. You’re too kind!
Kimberley says
Definitely adding a few of these to my reading list, specifically ‘The Switch’ and ‘Undercover Romance’. Thanks for sharing!
Stephanie Whitman says
The Switch was phenomenal. I sure hope you enjoy Undercover Bromance more than I did. I only gave it one star because I disliked it so much – buuut I HIGHLY suggest at least reading the first book first, if you haven’t already. The Bromance Book Club was fantastic!
Rach says
I was in a reading slump too and went with whatever felt right and that helped me get through it! For sure want to read Last Tang Standing next. And omg I love in 5 years! So so good!
http://www.rdsobsessions.com
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s exactly what you have to do for a reading slump! Weird that we both hit one in July. Seems like it’s the middle-of-the-year slump π I hope you enjoy Last Tang Standing. If you liked Crazy Rich Asians, you’ll probably greatly enjoy it!
Lizzie says
I’ve definitely been in a reading slump lol! These all look like great contenders! Sophie Kinsella is always so fun to read. Love her light, comical books π
Lizzie
http://www.lizzieinlace.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Sophie Kinsella is definitely working her way up to one of my favorite contemporary fiction authors. I love that her books don’t make me feel gross when I read them – if that makes any sense. I’m not much for smutty romcoms haha!
Giulia says
I actually won a copy of The Wedding Night years ago, and I was so excited because I love Kinsella’s books, but that one fell short of me I remember. I can’t remember exactly what didn’t sit well with me, but something didn’t. Glad you enjoyed it though.
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s too bad! It wasn’t my favorite out of all the books I’ve read by her, but I still enjoyed it a lot. I think she does a good job being original with her content – and I’m glad it’s not always enemies to lovers (because that’s my least favorite trope).
Beth says
I have both The Switch and The Flatshare on my shelf to be read and its great to see such a great review for it!!! Fantastic post idea Xxx
Stephanie Whitman says
You definitely need to read them as soon as you can, because they’re truly fantastic! The Flatshare was really special for me last year, and I’m glad I got to read The Switch this year because it made me feel nostalgic about her lovely writing!
Tyler Hyde says
You read so many great books in July! Six of Crows and A Darker Shade of Magic are among my favorites, and I’ve put a few books on my TBR closer to the top based on your recommendations (particularly In Five Years and Scythe!). Thanks for sharing such thorough book recs!
Stephanie Whitman says
ADSOM was absolutely phenomenal, and I’m really glad I ended my month with that particular read! I can’t wait to continue the series soon. If you enjoyed that, you’ll definitely like Scythe. I’m itching to keep reading that series too! π
Kileen says
These books sound so amazing! I always hate being in a reading slump! It’s the worst I swear! I’m going to have to add these books to the reading list and keep them in queue!
Kileen
cute & little
Stephanie Whitman says
I hope you get a chance to enjoy some of these great reads. I was shocked by my reading slump, but grateful to get past it with some of these five-star stories!
Tanvi Rastogi says
The Bromance is on my waitlist at the library. I have been a fan of Sophie Kinsella for over 15 years. She is the perfect author to pick up when going through a slump.
β₯ tanvii.com
Megan Louise says
I really want to get back into reading, some of these books look interesting; I really want to read the switch
Stephanie Whitman says
I hope you get a chance to, though I highly recommend reading The Flatshare prior to reading The Switch. They’re both EXCELLENT, don’t get me wrong, but The Flatshare is just extra precious!
Theeuphoriczat says
Read a number of books on this list and absolutely love them. I hope I can check out Last Tang Standing, I have heard about the similarities with Crazy Rich Asians which I actually enjoyed.
Stephanie Whitman says
I loved Crazy Rich Asians, which is why I even enjoyed Last Tang Standing at all – I just wish it hadn’t been *quite* so similar haha!
Lily says
Wedding Night and The Bromance Book Club sound like something right up my alley! Definitely have to add those to my list. I’m currently reading The Ghost Writer…so far, so good.
Stephanie Whitman says
They’re both great!! Anything by Sophie Kinsella is truly adorable. I read one of her books in June as well, and it was equally fun! She’s a great writer and produces excellent, lighthearted stories. And The Bromance Book Club was just downright AMAZING. It was such a unique plot!
Hillary Conheady says
The Switch sounds like such a fun and easy summer read! Definitely going to check it out and add it to my list!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’d almost categorize it a better autumn read, because it feels quite cozy. But then again, I listened to the audiobook and it was narrated by English ladies and the whole thing just felt like “rainy days and cups of tea,” if you get my gist π
Ming Qian says
Hey Stephanie, that does not sound like a reading slump to me. You read so many novels in July! I’m amazed! Meanwhile< I've been in a real reading slump for the whole of summer. I've only read a handful of books so far. Currently, I'm reading Ta-Nehisi Coates's We Were Eight Years in Power.
In your list, I think that the Last Tang Standing looks interesting to me because it is set in my country, Singapore. Before that, I probably should get to Crazy Rich Asians first though. I have all the books, but I haven't found the time to read them.
Disclaimer: the people in CRA are probably the 0.1% in Singapore haha! If you ever visit, don't be shocked that the majority of us don't live on sprawling estates with jazz music and people dancing in the gardens. The heat and humidity will turn anyone away from partying outdoors in evening gowns and tuxedoes!
Thanks for sharing this list!
Stephanie Whitman says
I’m sure different people categorize reading slumps differently. For me, this was a reading slump because despite the fact that I continued to go through books, none of them were interesting to me, and I didn’t have any desire to actually read. I went through all the lower-rated books VERY slowly, one of which taking me almost 2 weeks to read (when usually I read a book in 4-5 days). Just because I finished 11 books, doesn’t mean my reading slump wasn’t real π I also read very quickly, so the ones that I DID enjoy, I flew through – and I read 2 books at a time, so my natural number each month is between 9-12 books, no matter how disinterested I am! π
I did enjoy Last Tang Standing, but I preferred Crazy Rich Asians because it felt original to me, whereas Last Tang Standing seemed like a repeat story. That’s just my opinion, of course π I don’t expect all of Singapore to be like that at all haha! I know it’s fictional and that just like in America, there are the rich and the… not as rich π
Sarah Lennon says
I need to check these out…I haven’t been excited about any books lately. Thank you for the recs!
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s so sad! I hope you find a way to get into enjoying some great novels very soon! Maybe check out my summer reading suggestions for more ideas!
Sarah Lindner says
Definititely have been in a reading slump! Appreciate the fresh lineup! xoxo, Sarah
Stephanie Whitman says
Absolutely! You know I’m always good for some book recs π
Jennifer Prince says
I definitely need to read The Switch. I do have to say that I had to take an 8-hour ride to PA b/c my mom was having surgery, so I brought an audiobook for the car. I give you all of the credit! I also had the book in paperback, so what I didn’t complete on the trip, I was able to read. I’m not as avid of a reader as you are, but I always love your recs!
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s so encouraging to hear! I hope you enjoyed both versions of the book. Sometimes I like doing both an audiobook and physical copy just to see how hearing vs. reading makes a difference in the story. I also hope your mom’s surgery went well!!
Amanda says
I am in a HUGE reading slump so thank you for sharing this!
Stephanie Whitman says
Absolutely! Hopefully one of the five-star recommendations here can help you through your slump! But I highly suggest either a comfort read, or stepping entirely outside your comfort zone. Drastic differences, but they can help get you through a slump.
Adaleta Avdic says
You are the queen of reading, and I am always so impressed by how many books you read. I don’t know how you do it, because I feel like I’m always moving 100 miles a minute, and it’s hard for me to really slow down and read for joy. I did finish one book (in time to have the author on my podcast) and I’ve been slowly reading a skincare specific book so there’s a little reading happening here π
Stephanie Whitman says
I think my last monthly round-up included how I manage to read so much each month if you need any tips π But mostly, I just prioritize reading. I don’t watch a lot of TV, I don’t have a crazy social life, and I’m a total homebody and introvert, so if I’m not actively working or participating in something with my husband, I’m reading. It’s always been important to me, and it brings me joy, so I make it happen π
Amanda says
Book slumps are the worst, especially for a reader. I have a few of these on my list so loved getting your thoughts on if they are worth it. PS- Following your bookstagram now!
Stephanie Whitman says
No kidding! It can be tough when you’re really excited to dive into new books, and suddenly everything is boring or just doesn’t bring joy. I had to switch directions pretty drastically, but I’m glad I was able to find some good ones in the end! Also, thanks for following my booksta! That’s where all the fun is happening right now π
Jaimie Tucker says
My biggest problems related to reading are about finding the time! I have stacks and stacks of books just waiting to be picked up. Such little time, I find myself skimming and not getting a full read. Maybe once the kids go back to school….thanks for sharing! xo Jaimie http://www.jaimietucker.com
Stephanie Whitman says
Ahhh I think that seems to be the issue for a lot of people. Last month I shared how I manage to read so much, and I think some people found it helpful. Maybe you would too π It’s all about prioritizing and finding unique methods to make it happen!
Deborah says
Ahh so many great recommendations!! I really want to check out The Switch – I really loved Beth O’Leary’s other book, The Flatshare, so this is right up my alley!
Stephanie Whitman says
The Flatshare is one of my favorite contemporary fiction reads of all time π I was SO happy that I enjoyed The Switch just as much!
Candace Hampton says
These are wonderful suggestions! I confess I’m not a big reader outside of articles – but I have always wanted to be! A couple of books on this list certainly intrigued my interest. Looking at those candles also makes me want to snuggle up with a book! Your posts are always so informative and a pleasure to read.
Stephanie Whitman says
I’ll never try and pressure someone into being a reader if it’s not for them, but there are definitely ways to enjoy books outside of physical copies – like audiobooks.. or ebooks if you prefer a device! I’ve always found joy and solace in reading, so I hope others can experience that as well!
Adam says
I really like the sound of six of crows, definitely going to check that one out.
Stephanie Whitman says
I hope you enjoy it more than I did! It’s definitely a cult fave, but it wasn’t as exciting as I hoped it would be. I like fast-paced, action-based fantasy – and this one just didn’t quite live up to the hype.
Anika May says
The Switch and the Bromance Club Series are great picks! Anything by Sophie Kinsella usually pulls me out a slump too, she has such a friendly voice! Great post π
Anika | chaptersofmay.com
Stephanie Whitman says
That’s a great way to describe Sophie Kinsella’s books – a friendly voice. I love that! It’s so true!
Rachel says
In Five Years was one of my favorite books that I read this year! It was such a quick read that pulls you in, and like you, I wasn’t able to put it down! I have the Bromance Book Club in my TBR pile and can’t wait to start it.
Rachel
http://www.hello-her.com
Stephanie Whitman says
I flew through it! I wasn’t expecting to, but it was just so good I couldn’t help myself haha! I hope you really enjoy The Bromance Book Club. It was super fun!
Greta says
What a great review! I love getting book recommendations from other bloggers.
Stephanie Whitman says
Oh thank you! I hope you enjoyed all eleven reviews haha!
Kelly says
I seem to have hit a reading slump too! I love the sound of The Switch, it seems like such a fun and uplifting book to read! Iβll be popping this on my βTo Readβ list.
Stephanie Whitman says
It’s definitely a mood-booster. And I highly recommend the audiobook version because the narrators are lovely!
Charity says
I havenβt read any of these books before. Thanks for the recommendations. I will have to try them out!
Stephanie Whitman says
Lots of great ones here, so I hope you get a chance to check some of them out!
Kim says
I’m in need of a new book to read so I’m adding a few of these to my reading list! So many good recommendations.
xoxo,
Kim
Cait says
The Bromance Book Club looks hilarious!
ChloΓ© Arnold says
Seriously impressed with how many books you’ve read recently! I used to be an avid reader, but now I mostly listen to audiobooks in my free time. Might have to add some of these to my list!
Lee says
I haven’t read a Sophie Kinsella book in forever! I should totally check that one out!
Anna English says
I just started to read “You Are Not Alone” by the pool, its such a good read!
Laura Leigh says
I LOVED In Five Years – such a good book and very different from anything I had read. So glad you shared a review for Last Tang Standing because I was totally going to get that and now I will pass knowing it is so similar to CRA. Thank you for that!! Saved me!
xo Laura Leigh
https://louellareese.com
Helena Marz says
I am currently reading Girl Wash Your Face and I am trying to finish it but things keep getting in the way. Iβve always been a huge fan of Sophia Kinsella and enjoyed her books. The Switch sounds interesting to read and I think I would enjoy that one! π
Maame Yaa says
I seriously loved wedding night. In fact I love sophie Kinsella. Great job on the review though. Just a new book blogger stopping by.
Have a great day!
Lauryn Hock says
Reading slumps are too real! Thank you for these good recommendations. BTW I am in love with your cozy photos on this post, they made me want to cuddle up with a book!
Alice says
I absolutely LOVED both the Folk of the Air series and Six of Crows. Some of my favorites in years. I’ll have to check out your other recs for sure!
xo, Alice
Nailil says
I really need to pick up a new book. I thing The Switch would be right up my alley, seems like a fun romance story.
Xx, Nailil
https://thirtyminusone.com