My Favorite Reads in July

I’ve gained a reputation as “the bookish friend” on my Facebook the last few months since I started sharing (probably somewhat obnoxiously) the book titles I’m devouring. Subsequently, I’ve been asked a lot for book recommendations, so here are my favorite reads from the month of July (in particular order).

Serpent and Dove ...by Shelby Mahurin

I have to say, fantasy is really growing on me this summer, and this is one of the best I’ve picked up. Marriage of convenience, enemies to lovers, one bed trope, and magic––need I say more? Quick synopsis: a witch and a witch hunter are forced to marry, but the witch hunter doesn’t know she’s a witch. The main character, Lou, is wickedly delightful, and I love her constant irreverence. This is the first of a trilogy, all of which are well-done and come together well. I even convinced my husband to read this series and he loved it (and we rarely agree on books haha).

The Beautiful ...by Renee Ahdieh

Okay, seriously, what is BookTok doing to me with all these fantasy books?! This is the first vampire book I’ve actually enjoyed. Quick rundown: mysterious creatures and murder in 19th century New Orleans. I loved the historical setting, the strong characters, and that the vampire lore didn’t feel too “dumbed down,” like some other vampire stories I’ve tried. I wouldn’t put this in my list of top favorite books, but I was entertained and enjoyed it. This one is a trilogy and I also read the next book, The Damned, and it wasn’t quite as great but still good. Waiting for #3 to come out this fall.

Fangirl ...by Rainbow Rowell

Oh my gosh. This book made me feel SO seen. I absolutely was that anxious girl in college (okay, still am that girl), and just reading Cath’s thoughts was like looking into my own brain and being validated at times. (I also didn’t go to the dining commons freshman year without my roommate at first because I was terrified of all of it haha). This book gave me all kinds of Harry Potter and fanfic nostalgia too. Quick blurb: coming-of-age story of a freshman in college who’s anxious and obsessively writes fanfic. I absolutely loved this book and the relatability of the characters and their experiences.

I’ve gained a reputation as “the bookish friend.”

Beach Read ...by Emily Henry

I saw this one recommended everywhere way too many times to ignore it, so I finally picked it up, and it was really fun! Pretty standard rom-com––two rival authors challenge each other to write in the other’s genre and try not to fall in love in the process. There was laugh out loud banter and some good heart to the story. Be prepared though for some steamy scenes (I don’t usually do books with too much spice, but it’s easy to skip through if it’s not your cup of tea.) Overall, it was a perfect vacation read, as promised.

Honorable mention to A Court of Thorns and Roses (ACOTAR), which I finally gave in and read. It was much better than I thought it would be, but still not my personal favorite. I may pick up the next one in the future and see if I get more into it.

What books did you read in July? Any recommendations for what I should pick up in August?

#readlindahamilton #tipslindahamilton