I was very strategic with my vacation TBR list this year and it totally paid off. I managed to finish 5 books on our week away and they were the perfect backdrop for a warm, sunny vacation. Honestly, they were so good that 3 of the 5 ended up on my 5 star July reads list.
Below are the books, in order finished, for my summer vacation recap.
The Unmaking of June Farrow
5 Stars
I started this before vacation, but it counts! It’s been over a month and I’m still all swoony over this one. I marked this down as my favorite book of July. And I stand by it. Vacation is for escaping, so why not throw a little magical realism on your TBR list. Adrienne can make you feel the wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and a love to last a lifetime… or several. Watch for stray doors while you’re at it.
The Paradise Problem
5 Stars
The setting in this fabulously fun book by Christina Lauren rivals The Unhoneymooners. If you’ve ever dreamed of renting out your own tropical island with a walkway to your open-air cabana, this is for you. Just maybe don’t bring your bonkers extended family along. The descriptions of the sand, water, and buildings was a breath of fresh air for vacation. Also the kitchen scene. Cuz when you rent out the island you can make FULL use of the commercial kitchen. 😉
This Summer Will Be Different
5 Stars (yes, another one)
Depending on the day, I’ll tell you THIS was my favorite book of July. Because… Lucy and Felix. And that bathroom scene. Literally and figuratively steamy. This was a cross between Happy Place and Every Summer After. With a lot less mental turmoil and questionable behaviors. (I’m looking at you Charlie.)
You, With a View
4 Stars
Road trips, hiking, and amazing views? It’s like this was written for me. Minus the social media tell-all portion. But aside from that, I enjoyed the idea of a road trip to honor a love story that almost was. And finding love along the way.
Same Time Next Summer
4 Stars
I could probably spend an entire vacation at the treehouse in this book. It’s practically a dream come true. While the ending felt a little rushed, I loved this second-chance romance. Childhood friends to someday lovers has to be my favorite trope. And I’m feeling rather partial to the only-during-the-summer genre. (Annabel and Carley may have the market cornered.) Sam and Wyatt are adorable, sweet, and perfect for some summer reading.
What was on your summer vacation reading list?