Reading Recently

I have always enjoyed reading in the summer. Well, I like it all year, but the school year is typically way too busy for me to have time to finish a book before I forget the beginning. It is always my trip to Florida that gives me the most time to read. This year I read about 9 books, which is a little crazy, but that gives you an idea of how much time I spent reading at the beach. I have read several other books this summer as well, but I have narrowed it down to have favorite five. 

The Secret to Southern Charm  - Kristy Woodson Harvey

This is the second book in the Peach Tree Bluff Novels, and it focuses on a mother and her three grownup daughters. This book was anticipated to be one of the best summer reads of 2018, and it defiantly lived up to that. This book focuses on Sloane as she finds out her husband is missing in action, and how her family attempts to support her. There is no good way to describe this book that can give is justice, but pick up this book and the first (Slightly South of Simple) and enjoy summer classic summer reading. 

The Summer I Met Jack - Michelle Gable

This was a great beach read. The Summer I Met Jack is a historical fiction novel based around the Kennedy's. It is from the point of view of Alicia, a Polish Refugee and it is about her relationship with Jack Kennedy. This is based off of a true live of Alicia Corning Clark. I loved this book because the alternate view of the Kennedys makes you look at them a little differently. 

A Man Called Ove - Fredrick Backman

I wasn't sure about what I was going to think about this novel, but after reading it, I have to say it is one of my favorites. Fredrick Backman is a fantastic writer. He has created a witty yet sweet novel about an old man who is determined to end his life, but then finds a new life through his neighbors that move in. It sounds weird, but by the end I couldn't put it down. 

The Simplicity of Cider - Amy Reichert 

Picking up this book was a no-brainer for me. It is based in Door County and is all about a relationship that grows between a couple through their goal to save the orchard. For me, this book was special because I could recognize all of the locations discussed which made the book really come to life. If you are looking for a sweet summer, semi-romance novel, then this is for you. 

Mudbound - Hillary Jordan 

Let's just say this book does not make me want to move to a Mississippi Delta farm. The book shows the struggles of Laura McAllan as she marries, only to find out her husband has always wanted to farm. He eventually buys the farm and they must move there. His brother and father come to live with, and each add another level to the hardships of her life. This was an interesting read, and I feel the movie would probably be really good as well. 

What have you been reading? 

xoxo,

Maddie