Introducing Summer Reading Reviews

Since I’m reading a lot of older books as part of my summer reading list, I decided I probably won’t do full-length reviews for each one. Instead, I’ll do a series of “Summer Reading Reviews” that look at 2 or 3 of the books I’ve read at a time. This way, I can share my thoughts on each book, without feeling like I’m struggling to write a full review of the book.

For each book I’ll also include a “Beach Read Rating” which is my totally subjective opinion on whether or not I think this book makes a good beach read. This rating may not necessarily match my regular rating – books I would typically give a lower rating may still make great beach reads. Remember, this is completely subjective as everyone has their own definition as to what constitutes a good “Beach Read.”

Spring Fever by Mary Kay Andrews

Title: Spring Fever
Author: Mary Kay Andrews
Publication Date: June 5, 2012
Format: Paperback
Rating: 3.5 stars

My goal this summer was to read books I wouldn’t normally choose, and to try out some lighter fiction than what I am accustomed to. This is why Mary Kay Andrews’s books appealed to me, as they fit both categories. This certainly wasn’t the kind of book I would normally choose, but I found myself enjoying quite a bit of it.

I would describe this novel as a chick flick with the added drama of a soap opera. In a lot of ways it had the predictability and humor of a chick flick, but with the extra sudsy appeal of a soap opera. Normally I would have rolled my eyes, but I actually found myself enjoying the book to my surprise. It took me a little while to really get into it, as I had trouble identifying with the characters, but once I finally fell into a rhythm with it I found it to be a quick, fun read.

Beach Read Rating:   
This book is my definition of a beach read – light, and fun with just the right amount of sudsy drama.

The Last Letter From Your Lover by JoJo Moyes

Title: The Last Letter From Your Lover
Author: JoJo Moyes
Publication Date: January 10, 2008
Format: Paperback
Rating: 4 stars

I really enjoyed Me Before You, and wanted to try another book by the author. This one was chosen somewhat at random since it was the only one on the shelf at the used bookstore where I was shopping. However, the bright pink cover appealed to me so I picked it up. (Yes, I do judge books by their covers, but I know I’m not the only one!)

While reading this book, I found myself really getting into the part of the story taking place in the 1960s, though the present day storyline didn’t interest me nearly as much except where it overlapped with the characters from the past. I think the characters in the 1960s storyline were just fleshed out better and more interesting. Much like the character of Ellie in the present, I was drawn in by the love story and a desire to know what happened to the couple.

Beach Read Rating:
This book isn’t as light and fun as Spring Fever, but it would certainly look bright and colorful in your beach bag!