It’s crazy to think that summer is officially over and fall is in full swing. While I’m not sad to see the heat go (if it ever gets below 80 in LA…), the end of summer is always a little bittersweet for me because it marks the end of summer reading season. I typically read more “fun” books in the summer but, this year, I need that mental escape more than ever so I’m continuing my fun reading into the fall and winter. I doubt I’m the only one needing that extra mental escape and self-care time, which is why I’m excited to share my summer reading wrap up with you.
Just because these were some of my favorite books of the summer, that doesn’t mean they aren’t great for year-round reading! Here’s an overview of what I read this summer, enjoyed most and why.
2020 Summer Reading Wrap Up
Beach Read by Emily Henry
How could a book with the title Beach Read not make for great summer reading? Technically, this book falls into the romance category. So I have to admit, I did not have high expectations for it at the beginning. I don’t read much romance; however, this novel was such a lovely surprise! It’s about two authors, both fighting their own sets of inner demons and struggling to write their next novel.
What I loved about this book was that the plot is not far-fetched; and with the two main characters being writers, so much of the book is wrapped up in their creative processes and how they find inspiration for their work. Totally nerded out on this part and I loved every word of it. I laughed. I cried. And I still think about this story every single day.
The Lies That Bind by Emily Giffin
I have followed Emily’s career since I was in college – and maybe even high school. She writes in the odd years and publishes in the even years. Every other summer the pub day for her newest novel is essentially a combination of Christmas + my birthday + the 4th of July on my excitement/happiness meter. I cannot say enough good things about her books, and The Lies That Bind is no exception. I have a full post dedicated to this title alone in the works!
One to Watch by Kate Stayman-London
There was a void in my Monday evenings with the Bachelorette and Bachelor in Paradise not airing as planned. One to Watch helped satisfy my reality TV craving and gave me a new perspective on how women are often portrayed in the media. I have a lot to say about this book. In honor of the Bachelorette premiering next week, I have a full post dedicated to this title in the works as well.
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
For the record, I selected this novel from my Book of the Month membership before this title was announced as a Reese’s Book Club pick. I’m a dedicated follower of Reese and her book club so I’m not throwing shade. In fact, picking out this book and reading it prior to the announcement of her June book club pick is probably my proudest moment of 2020. Which is why I have to mention it here. Getting back to the actual book…
The Guest List is a perfect book to read with Halloween approaching. The setting is spooky, and all of the characters seem slightly unhinged and are for sure unreliable narrators. Every little development has this sinister feel to it, where I found myself on edge just waiting the next twist.
Happy and You Know It by Laura Hankin
If you’re a fan of Big Little Lies or When Life Gives You Lululemons (I mean, how could you not be?!), then make Happy and You Know It your next book. It’s about a group of Upper East side new moms who hire a struggling musician to play music for their babies during their weekly playdates. Cringe-worthy and hilarious drama ensues.
I don’t have children, so I can’t personally relate to the new-mom lifestyle but, that didn’t stop me from tearing through this book. And if you are a mother, I think this book will be extra-relatable and even more funny!
Happy and You Know It is Hankin’s first novel and I can’t wait to get my hands on what she writes next!
I’ll Be Gone in the Dark by Michelle McNamara
Don’t read this book in the dark. It is terrifying and all true. If you like mysteries or thrillers, you’ll enjoy this book. And if you’re looking to read something to get you in the Halloween spirit, I’ll Be Gone in the Dark will do the trick. One of my oldest friends shared this book with me. While I was afraid of my shadow the entire time I was reading it, I loved it. Michelle McNamara’s writing is beautiful, and her dedication to finding the East Area Rapist/Golden State Killer is pretty incredible. If you don’t know what or who I’m talking about, DO NOT GOOGLE IT. The book will be spoiled if you do. Also, don’t watch the HBO documentary until after you finish reading. The book is always better anyway, right?
That’s a wrap on my summer reading wrap up! Even though summer is over, these books are great regardless of the time of the year. I hope these recommendations inspire you to pick out your next novel.
What books did you enjoy reading this summer? Or, what are you reading right now? I want to know!
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