For me, summer is usually a season of light reading. Good, high-quality writing but stories I can read on a plane or a lounge chair without bursting into tears and frightening the passenger next to me or furrowing my brow, deep in thought, and getting weird tan lines.
Here are half a dozen books that got me through the summer, but would be equally as enjoyable now. Check out the other six — all thrillers — here. Let me know what you’ve been reading, too.
The President’s Hat by Antoine Laurain
I adored this book, which could be the inspiration for the term, “a little gem.” Francois Mitterrand leaves his signature black fedora in a restaurant, setting off a chain of events that change the lives of four people who become its temporary owners. The story is delightful, charming and an ode to everyone who has ever superstitiously credited inanimate objects with inexplicable powers.
Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Okay, I did tear up a little while reading this one. Nine days after eloping, 26-year old Elsie becomes a widow when her husband is killed on his bike while running a quick errand to pick up the Fruity Pebbles she’s craving. WTF? This is a powerful and ultimately hopeful story about life and death, and what happens when we finally meet our soul mate, only to have them snatched away in an instant.
Lake Como by Anita Hughes
I devour Anita Hughes’ novels because they’re the literary equivalent of indulging in rich, expensive chocolate. Her settings – this time, Italy and San Francisco – always make me want to get on a plane, and her vivid descriptions of fashion, food and furniture are Pinterest-worthy. As always, she deals with themes of love, family, trust, and gives you characters to care about.
The Good House by Ann Leary
This book is so original and Hildy Good such a juicy, unreliable narrator, it’s no wonder Meryl Streep and Robert de Niro have already signed on to do the movie adaptation. The story takes place in a small town on Boston’s North Shore, where residents stay for life and guard each other’s secrets. Hildy, a descendant of one of the historic witches hung in Salem, is a successful real estate agent and a recovering alcoholic. Kind of. Being in her head, listening to her rationalize her more-than-occasional bottles of wine and increasing black-outs, makes for a reading experience that’s wicked fun.
The Lemon Orchard by Luanne Rice
I think I’ve read all 31 of Luanne Rice’s novels. I’m drawn to her themes of love, family and nature. Although this one remains true to those areas, it also covers an important political issue, offering food for thought about our immigration laws. Julia, grieving over the death of her husband and daughter, escapes to her aunt and uncle’s Malibu home, where she develops a strong bond with Roberto, who oversees the lemon orchard and is still reeling from the disappearance of his own young daughter, who was lost as they crossed the desert from Mexico. This is not only a beautiful story but an important one.
I Could Chew on This by Francesco Marciuliano
I had to include this little tribute to man’s – and woman’s – best friend because the poems, written in the voices of dogs, are funny and touching, and the photos are “aw”-inspiring. Focusing on canine concerns like eating, sniffing, playing and eating, these verses feel so authentic, you’ll swear you hear your own pet’s voice in there.
Adding these to my endless list … Always love your reviews!
Thanks, Helene. Love reading yours, too. And, yes, the list goes on and on and on …
Another friend had recommended The Good House by Ann Leary to me as well. Now that you’ve suggested it too, it’s next on my list. Thanks, Lois!
Can’t wait to hear what you think of it! And I haven’t forgotten Moonlight Sonata at the Mayo Clinic. I can’t read all the books I have fast enough!
I have never read Luanne Rice or Anita Hughes so I am looking forward to trying those!! Always love your reading lists! Thanks Lois!!
Laurie, they both write fantastic stories that are fast reads and sooooo good!
I agree with your recommendation of “Believe in Yourself – Inspire Others – Spread Joy” by Amy Wise and have given copies of her book to many of my friends. Many of them have told me that they have done the same for their friends. It is a good book to pick up and read when you need encouragement or something to lift your spirits. I also have to admit that Amy is my daughter and I am extremely proud of her and all that she has accomplished.
I love the book and I love your daughter! Here’s the link so people can read about it: https://midlifeattheoasis.com/books/mothers-day-gift-idea-believe-in-yourself-inspire-others-spread-joy-by-amy-wise/
Thanks for writing — and for having Amy!
I would like to read Forever, Interrupted!
You’ll love it! And my nickname is Lolo! How funny!
I am a big Lisa Scottoline fan, and I have not read that one yet.. but it is next on my list.
She’s so good!
you were busy! I wish I had the time to read more! The How to be a Good Wife looks like a good book!
It’s very good — and creepy!
I actually did quite a bit of reading this summer. One of the best was “& Sons” by David Gilbert.
Will have to put that one on my long list! Thanks, Sharon!
I just picked up the LEMON ORCHARD from the library last week and it is on my list….will look at this list again before we head to Roatan to dive as it is always nice to have books you are going to like ready to read…thanks Lois. If you have not read THE BOY WHO HARNESSED THE WIND I think you would LOVE it! I finished The end of your life Bookclub and loved the last lines of the book “She never wavered in her conviction tht books are the most powerful tool in the human arsenal….is the grandest entertainment, and is also how you take part in the human conversation.” I also liked THE BURGESS BOYS; OLD FILTH; FIERCE MEDICINE. Thanks for helping me wade thru the wants of a good read:) xo
Loved The End of Your Life Book Club! Will have to look for the ones you just mentioned, too. Thanks, and have a good trip! xo
I ALWAYS love your book choices and reviews. It gives me an endless list of choices. Thank you for sharing!
I’m so glad! Thanks for reading!
I have so many books waiting to be read….but I’m going to add The Good House to my list.
Hildy is such a great character!
As if my book pile weren’t big enough! These all look great. Even the sad one – you had me at “Fruity Pebbles.”
I know! The fact that it’s Fruity Pebbles actually makes the whole story even sadder!
Thanks for these great suggestions!!
Hope you like them! Let me know what you’re reading too!