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What I Read in July 2026
21
items Wow, I think this is my most incredible reading month ever. 21 books. Thrillers, short stories, historical and contemporary reads. Full disclosure, I’ve been off work for all of July so reading was a core component to keeping a routine this month. He...
I really wanted to love this one more after all the hype (and the Netflix adaptation), but it ended up being more of a “good, not amazing” read for me. I enjoyed the story, but I think my expectations were just a little too high going into it.
The Perfect Couple
A quick, summery read that completely caught me off guard! The plot twist genuinely surprised me, and it was exactly the kind of easy summer thriller I needed.
The Summer Guests
This is a book everyone should experience, especially on audio. A powerful, emotional, and incredibly important recollection of history told through the voices of those who lived it. Truly a masterpiece.
The Only Plane in the Sky
A memoir everyone should read. I went between the physical book and audio, but Chanel’s narration made the audiobook experience unforgettable. Her storytelling, strength, and vulnerability stayed with me long after finishing.
Know My Name
Was it the greatest mystery I’ve ever read? No. Was it a fun little palette cleanser? Absolutely. It felt like reading a Golden Girls movie that never existed — you could practically hear the characters’ voices in your head.
Murder by Cheesecake
Completely listened to this one on audio and loved every second. The final sentence had me staring into space because the twist was THAT good. I actually said out loud, “Wow… that was a great book.”
Mad Mabel
I still think The Bright Years holds my heart, but this was another beautifully written story from Sarah Damoff. Emotional, thoughtful, and one I genuinely enjoyed.
The Burning Side
I would give this more than five stars if I could. I absolutely inhaled this book in less than 24 hours and ended up sobbing alone at the beach. I loved every single second and cannot wait to continue with Fly Away.
Firefly Lane
This was such a fun and unique read. It honestly reminded me of Junie B. Jones for adults, and I’m excited to continue with the rest of Emma’s journals.
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion
The perfect beach summer romance. I loved the representation of mental health and genuinely enjoyed spending time with these characters. My only complaint is that the Calamity Club audiobook was so incredible it almost stole the spotlight!
Dolly All the Time: A GMA Book Club Pick
Not exactly what I expected going in, but I ended up really enjoying it. I’m excited to finish the rest of the series this fall and see where the story goes.
Pines
A truly beautiful story. The audiobook was absolutely impeccable, and even though this book was nearly 700 pages, I never wanted it to end. One of those rare books where saying goodbye to the characters feels genuinely difficult.
The Calamity Club
I didn’t expect to love this one as much as I did because the premise included a trope that usually isn’t for me, but Elin handled it so beautifully. The characters completely stole my heart, and I loved every moment of this story.
28 Summers
After the emotional ending of 28 Summers, this was the perfect little continuation. I loved getting more time with these characters, although I definitely wished it was longer so some storylines could have been wrapped up a little more.
The Sixth Wedding
A slower-paced story, but the nostalgia and reflection throughout were beautifully written. The audiobook definitely elevated the experience because Meryl Streep’s narration was incredible.
Tom Lake
I’m picky when it comes to thrillers, but I loved this one. The main character gave me a mix of Reid and Hotchner from Criminal Minds, and the final stretch had me completely hooked.
Head Cases
A fast, addictive summer read with incredible atmosphere that pulled me in right away. I was hooked from the start, though the second half felt a little longer than it needed to be.
Malibu Rising
A sharp, funny Cape Cod read that perfectly captures the beautiful chaos of family life. Honest, relatable, and effortlessly easy to devour in one sitting.
Sandwich
I found this one a bit underwhelming overall, even though I can see why it’s so loved. It felt a bit slower than I expected, and I never fully connected with the story. I think I was really hoping for that same emotional pull as I did from other Elin...
The Five-Star Weekend
A memoir that completely broke my heart in the best way. I started it the same day Isabel said goodbye to Simon, which made it even more emotional. Beautifully written and even more powerful in Isabel’s own voice on audio. I loved every second and wi...
Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About
I DNF’d this one. It was beautifully written and I loved the concept, but I think I was heading into a reading slump and needed something faster-paced. I can see myself circling back in the fall when I’m in the mood for something slower and more atmo...
The Someday Garden