Reading in July

07 August 2020

What a reading month July was! After the abysmal progress I made toward my reading goal in June, I was able to end July strong! I finished a ton of books I had already started in June, and I listened to more audiobooks than I usually do. I'm currently working from home, and I find myself turning to audiobooks more and more to fill my ears when my apartment is too quiet. 

I finished eight books, which is slightly above my average of five books a month. I feel like I've caught up with where I want to be in my reading, and I'm happy with it. More than that, though, I read some truly amazing stuff this month, and I couldn't be more excited to share all my thoughts in these wrap-up mini reviews!


I heard about this book from my favorite bookish podcast, Currently Reading, and I instantly knew I needed to read it! This book follows the coming of age of a young girl, Emmeline, who lives on an island with her father where they collect and study scents. Throughout the book, Emmeline slowly discovers the secrets surrounding her father, why they are on the island, and what the purpose is for the scents they're collecting. This is a beautifully written, fast-paced book that is completely immersive. It's one of the most unique stories I've ever read, and I would recommend it for people who appreciate a quick story with little bit of magical realism. I personally wanted just a little more development, but overall I loved it!
Rating: ★


I shouldn't have started another long, dense fantasy series, but after watching Daniel Greene continuously rave about the Wheel of Time series on his channel, I couldn't help myself! This book is a great first installment to the series, and I am hooked! Admittedly, this particular book was a bit trope-y. Robert Jordan wears his inspirations on his sleeve, and it's very apparent. I could see why some people would think this book is ripping off a lot of iconic fantasy books, but I still found the world, the characters, and the magic system so incredibly intriguing and I loved it. From what I've heard, the series does grow and evolve into its own, which I can't wait to see as I continue reading. I need the next book ASAP!
Rating: ★


The first audiobook I finished for the month.  There's a lot of hype surrounding this book, especially with the TV show, and I'm glad to say that it lived up to all of it! This is such an interesting story examining the complex relationships of people in a small town. It mainly focuses on a kindergarten classroom and the politics and drama among the parents, which eventually leads to murder. I was initially hesitant about this book because I have never read a thriller that I love, but this turned out to be more of a mystery story and a case study on how adults can sometimes act more like children. This story is full of secrets, lies, and suspense. I found the ending to be surprising, though not as climactic as I expected. I would recommend this one if it's something you think you'd enjoy!
Rating: ★


I don't know what more I can say about this one other than it's another amazing installment in the Armand Gamache Mysteries series! I am hooked on Three Pines and all its quirky characters. This third book pulled away a little from the usual formula, and created higher stakes that will carry on through the rest of the series. I was able to figure out most of the mystery in this one, but I still loved it! I know this series isn't technically a cozy mystery series, but I just feel so cozy reading it. Whenever I'm down, I'm so glad there are Louise Penny mysteries!
Rating: ★


This was another audiobook I listened to. The Tom Hanks narration was absolutely lovely, and made the whole book for me! His voice sucked me into the story, and it was great. This is a strong, family centered book following the relationship between a brother and sister. For some reason, I got strong The Goldfinch vibes while listening to this, even though these stories are very different. I liked the deep dive into the sibling relationship, but all the other characters felt like caricatures without much depth to them. There also wasn't much of a plot, just a narrative of the two main characters lives and experiences that are deeply connect to their childhood home, the Dutch House. Ultimately, this was just an okay book for me, but I loved Ann Patchett's writing, and I'll definitely pick up more from her in the future.
Rating: ★


I read this book during my quiet time in the mornings along with my Bible. This isn't a particularly theologically challenging book, but I know it isn't trying to be. It's a short collection of reminders of God's incomprehensible and undeserving love for us. I think it would be a great read for new believers and for those who need a rest from spiritually heavy books. It's basic and poetic and full of good truths.
Rating: 


Since I recently posted a full, in depth review for this book, I won't give too much detail here. I really enjoyed this introductory look into the intimate lives of some of the Inklings. I learned a lot about some great writers who I admire, and I would love to dive deeper and learn more. Besides some structural and balance issues I had with this particular non-fiction book, I found it to be a great read that was easy to follow. 
Rating: 


Since my husband and I had to postpone our honeymoon (we're really the unhoneymooners in this situation), I've been craving some sunshine. This audiobook is my first foray into adult, contemporary romance, and I was surprised to find it super fun and cute! There were some unrealistic scenarios and coincidences, which I have trouble with whenever I read a contemporary book. However, I thought the relationship and build up was nice, and the plot definitely reminded me of a classic rom-com movie. I also appreciated that the intimacy was fade-to-black and I didn't have to skip through any uncomfortable scenes. This book gave me what I expected, and I can totally understand the hype!
Rating: ★
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What did you read in July?

4 comments

  1. I just got The Eye of the World from the library last week, I don't know if I heard about until this year (and not from a source I usually pick books from), and now your positive mention makes me hope I'll like it. I think Inklings may have been on my list too. I want to try several of the books from your list.

    I think I pretty much just reread books (mostly Anne of Green Gables) in July, I had/have school, work, and my sisters wedding in combination with a reading motivation slump

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    1. I hope you enjoy The Eye of the World! If you love classic high fantasy like LOTR, you'll definitely like it. The Inklings is great too!
      AoGG is such a comfort read and is one I want to reread at some point soon too!

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  2. I have heard of none of these! I wish I was more of a book person but it seems like now a days it's something I can't put my focus on as there are other life things in the way and alwaysss in my mind. <3 I do like reading these posts though!

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    1. I go through those stages in life too when reading is hard. You don't have to put pressure on yourself to read! Just pick it up when you want to. I'm glad you enjoyed the post, though! :)

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