Just a little update on what books I have been reading this Summer. I have read some great and unexpected books. Some that I’m not sure I would have initially chosen at first which actually supports the theory that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.
American Dirt – Jeanine Cummins
I received American Dirt for my birthday from a good friend. Prior to this I had read the blurb on the back of the book and didn’t really fancy it. Well what a mistake that was. American Dirt is one of my favourite books of 2021. A darker more serious book than I usually read, it was beautifully written, heart breaking in parts and whilst it was a fiction book there is no doubt in my mind that this is happening to many poor families.
American Dirt tells the story of Lydia and her son Luca as they experience the murder of their family and then have to flee their home in Mexico to get to the American border where they will be safe.
It is a real page turner and a story that I couldn’t stop thinking about after I had finished reading. American Dirt is without a doubt a must read.
The Lido – Libby Page
After reading quite a few dark and intense thrillers I was craving something a little more lighthearted, an easy read. Similar to American Dirt I heard about The Lido a while back but didn’t really like the look of it. However when stumbled across it this weekend in a charity shop I thought I would give it a read. The Lido was just what I needed. Easy to read, uplifting with characters you can fall in love with.
Rosemary is 86 and visits her local lido every morning for a swim. Despite the constant changing of Brixton the place she calls home, the lido reminds her of her childhood and her beloved husband George.
Kate is 26 and a journalist working for a local Brixton newspaper. She has recently moved to Brixton alone and is feeling a little lost.
When the lido is at risk of closure. Kate is assigned to report on it. This could be the start of her journalism career whilst for Rosemary this could be the end of everything.
A beautiful tale of kindness and friendship and a look at what we cab achieve if we come together.
The Night She Disappeared – Lisa Jewell
If you read my book reviews regularly you will know I am a huge Lisa Jewell fan. Her books are always guaranteed to be a good read. The Night She Disappeared follows the story of teenage Mum Tallulah who after visiting a friends house in 2017 never returns home. In 2018 author Sophie moves into a new house with her boyfriend, the new local High School Head Teacher. Whilst exploring the area she stumble across a sign that says ‘Dig Here’.
The chapters of the book take place between a variety of times dating from 2016 -2018. It kept me guessing throughout the book and right up until the last few chapters I wasn’t sure what the outcome would be. I must admit I did feel that it was a little slapdash at points and the last few chapters felt really rushed to me. However whilst it’s not my favourite Lisa Jewell book I still enjoyed it and would recommend you read it.
How to Save a Life – Eva Carter
I have never read a book by Eva Carter before so I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I was drawn into How to Save a Life as soon as I started reading it. The story begins when 18 year old footballer Joel’s heart stops. A school friend, Kerry, performs CPR saving Joel’s life, while her best friend Tim freezes, unable to help.
The story then follows Joel, Kerry and Tim over 2 decades watching how their lives entwine over time. The story told by each characters perspective is beautifully written. I found it a little frustrating at times but then I guess love is at times isn’t it. A story of love, loss and growing up. An absolute must read.
Love Your Life – Sophie Kinsella.
I think you can spot a Sophie Kinsella book as soon as you start reading one. Love your Life is no different. Ava meets the man of her dreams during a writing retreat in Italy. Both smitten with each other they are certain it will be more than just a holiday romance. That is until they return home and realise they hate everything about the other person’s life. Can they make it work?
Loved this book. Light hearted, fluffy with characters you can’t help but fall in love with. When life feels a bit tough this is the book to escape the real world for a bit.
What are you reading?
I’m currently reading a book called The Luminous Dead and just finished Starless. I want to read The Night She Disappeared, that sounds good!
Oh I havent seen that Sophie Kinsella book. I love her – will definitely look out for it.
I loved The Lido when I read it, such a lovely story. I am ready a non fiction book called my boyfriend wrote a book about me which is quite funny x
This seems very interesting! I can’t wait to grab this one right after i finish my current read (Black Swan by Nassim Taleb)
I am a fan of Lisa Jewell. I love all her books. I will also try those on your list, since they are all very interesting. They all looks good. Thank you for sharing.
These look like a great choice of books to read. I’d love to check out The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell. It sounds like such an interesting book.
Some lovely reads her! My friend was talking to me about American Dirt and how good the book was albeit being dark. I am tempted to get a copy for myself now.
I am always looking for a new book to read and a new author too and I may have to check this one out 😉
I am not familiar with this book even though it is a bestseller. I’ll have to add this one to my reading list!
I didn’t get to read any whole books this summer. We had a LOT going on. I missed it, summers are usually my down time.
Wow, what a variety of books! I don’t read often but I have been diving in and out of The Moon Almanac lately.
Those seem like great books. I actually read The Night She Disappeared a few years ago, it was great. Thanks for sharing!