Summer Book Reviews (thus far)

As I sat down this morning to write a new post, I realized that I haven’t shared a single book review all summer. I’ve read a lot actually, and being a fan of efficiency, I decided to post quick reviews on each of my summer reads in 1 post. So, without further delay…

The American Heiress by Daisy Goodwin
Synopsis: Explores the plights of English aristocracy in the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries. We meet America’s richest and most eligible bachelorette—Cora Cash. She marries an English Duke, gaining a title, while also using her father’s fortune to save the Duke’s dying estate. Obviously, we witness our fair share of scandal, love affairs and drama.
Read it: if you enjoy mindless, historical fiction and predictable story lines
Skip it: if you prefer reading books that make you think

Little Bee by Chris Cleave
Synopsis: Told from the perspective of 2 women from different parts of the world, we learn how their lives magically intersect (since the back of this book keeps its content vague, I shall do the same).
Read it: if you like intense story lines and books told from the perspective of various characters
Skip it: if you find books with dramatic turns on nearly every page annoying

Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg
Synopsis: Facebook’s COO Sheryl Sandberg offers a lot of helpful advice. She’s a thorough researcher and shares interesting findings on gender issues in the work place. She includes helpful strategies, like how to ask for a raise or deal with work conflict. It reads more of a guide book, explaining how to handle being a career woman, while also balancing a family.
Read it: if you’ve ever caught yourself saying, “I don’t know how to handle this work-related situation,” or if you’re starting a new job
Skip it: if gender issues aren’t really your thing

The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice
Synopsis: Set in post-World War II London — just before Elvis became king — The Lost Art… follows the life of Penelope Wallace, a quirky, insecure teen whose once prestigious family is falling apart. One afternoon, Penelope meets Charlotte, and the two become instant best friends. However, once she enters Penelope’s life, everything changes. Penelope suddenly finds herself popular, in the middle of a fabricated love triangle and immersed in a confusing game of secret keeping.
Read it: if you like being able to relate to characters, you enjoy “girly” but not too “girly” novels and you like character growth
Skip it: while it’s difficult for me to think of a reason not to read it (it’s one of my favorite novels), skip it if you don’t like “girly” books
* to read a full review, click here *

The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown
Synopsis: It’s the perfect self help book for anyone who considers themselves a perfectionist. Brown really identifies the root of perfectionism and helps you find ways to let go of this way of being. You’ll learn about connection, courage and compassion and how practicing these ideals will help you start living your best life.
Read it: if you’re a twenty-something who often feels insecure, anxious and inadequate
Skip it: if you don’t like books that talk about “loving yourself”
* For a little more detail about this book click here *

I’d love to hear what you’ve been reading this summer. Please share some titles below.

 

 

 

 

 

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