One of my favorite hobbies and ways to relax is reading. I love sitting down and getting lost in a good book. From mysteries and romance to chick-lit and biographies, there isn’t much I don’t enjoy. In the summer, I tend to gravitate to more lighthearted beach reads, and like many of you, I’ve had extra time at home the past few months to devote to reading. Today, I’m sharing the top five books I’ve read recently.
The Overdue Life of Amy Byler
This is the first book I’ve read by Kelly Harms, and it did not disappoint. The Overdue Life of Amy Byler was funny, lighthearted and the perfect read to kick off summer. It’s about a single mom and librarian Amy Byler whose husband abandoned her and their two kids years ago. When he suddenly shows up out of the blue wanting to spend time with the kids, Amy takes a much-needed vacay to New York City where she finds herself in more ways than one. As summer draws to an end, she has to choose between the new life she’s created or the life she left behind. If you are looking for a fun and easy read, I highly recommend this book!
The Lies That Bind
Emily Griffin is one of my all-time favorite authors, so I was really excited when I saw she had a new book coming out this summer. Set in New York City around the time September 11th, The Lies That Bind is about a girl named Cecily whose newfound “soulmate” goes missing the day the Twin Towers fall. In the aftermath of the tragedy, she uncovers details about his past that leaves her with more questions than answers. Cecily is left searching for the truth, even when she isn’t sure she can handle it. This book was met with many mixed reviews, but I loved it.
Big Summer
Big summer is about Daphne Berge, a plus-size influencer who gets roped into being the maid of honor in her former best friend’s wedding. This book was filled with twists and turns and a surprise ending that I did not see coming. I give five stars for Jennifer Weiner’s latest book. It was the perfect easy read for summer!
The Last Mrs. Parish
The Last Mrs. Parish came highly recommended by so many for a good reason…it was a page-turner! I literally could not put it down. Amber Patterson, a plain Jane nobody, sets her sights on wrangling her way into the life of socialite Daphne Parish. Her perfectly laid plan helps her to become Daphne’s closest friend and even form a bond with Daphne’s husband. As secrets from Amber’s past come to the surface, she must do everything possible to keep her plan from unraveling. This book reminded a lot of Gone Girl (another favorite). If you haven’t read it, add it to your list immediately! ⠀ ⠀
The Perfect Couple
Elim Hilderbrand is another favorite author of mine, and this book had been on my Goodread’s list for a while. The Perfect Couple follows the lavish Otis-Winbury wedding in Nantucket. When tragedy strikes before the ceremony, an investigation ensues, and everyone suddenly is a suspect. As the chief of police conducts his interview and secrets are unveiled, it becomes apparent to all that there is no such thing as the perfect couple. Hilderbrand is known for her great beach reads, and this one is no exception.
For more summer reading suggestions for moms, check out this post! Also, let me know in the comments what some of your favorite reads from this summer were.
