#Summerreads You Can Dive Into

I often see people looking for new authors and for fun summer reads. I’d like to share a few that I have read and that I tend to recommend frequently. All of these Kindle books are under $5, my friends! And one is free!

I’m going to post my review below each book so you know why I enjoyed it. Click the bolded book title to find it on Amazon.

Juliette and the Monday ManDates by Becky Doughty (FREE on Amazon):

My Review:

Lighthearted read about the sisterly bonds that run deep. Getting into one tricky situation after another, Juliette Gustafson is endearing as she tries to get past her ex, Mike. I love how her sisters and friend rally around her, prodding her to move forward again. The backstory on this adds extra depth to our understanding of Juliette’s emotional state, and her spiritual journey is one many can relate to. I loved following along with Juliette on her dates and felt I could “see” this book playing out, almost like a movie.

And Victor…enigmatic cop with that Darcy-esque push/pull effect…only I liked him better than Darcy. Cannot wait to read the next sister’s story–all the sisters are so interesting.

(I recommend this as a humorous read that is the start to an amazing series about sisters.)

The Secret Life of Book Club by Heather Woodhaven:

My Review:

Oh my goodness! I soaked this book up. I felt like the four main characters in the book club were friends. I loved the realism with the marriage/children dynamics. And the adventures had me LOL-ing so often! Three words: fake cop car. That scenario was so vivid! I hope against hope Heather has another book coming out soon along these lines, because this one was excellent. A new fave.

(This book will make you laugh. VERY often.)

The Short and Sincere Life of Ellory James by Wendy Paine Miller:

My Review:

Once again Miller takes us into the head of an unforgettable character–this time, it’s Ellory James. While this novella is a tearjerker, it’s not handled so heavily I felt depressed at the end. In fact, many times throughout I was laughing-out-loud at Ellory’s antics with her neighbor, Pete. The incident with parasailing springs to mind.

Inventive, lyrical, and rich, this is the kind of short fiction I love to sink my teeth into.

(Shorter read that manages to bring a serious theme (teen cancer) to life with humor.)

Crowned by Christina Coryell:

My Review:

Coryell is one of my new go-to contemporary authors. Although she writes light, amusing dialogue and situations, deeper threads run through the Girls of Wonder Lane series that leave me reflecting on my own life.

I was intrigued by Harley Laine, reporter, in the last novel (Simply Mad), and Crowned shares her story in such a poignant way. She’s a little like a modern-day Scarlett O’hara, chasing after the wrong things, focusing on outward appearance…until God shows her what’s really important. I love how even though Harley seems superficial, she’s really masking a deeply loving and giving heart that others see in her more than she can see in herself.

Another winner and I am anxiously awaiting the next book in this series!

(This novel had a depth I don’t find often in contemporary romance. Book One, Simply Mad, is another fun read.)

This Quiet Sky by Joanne Bischof:

My Review:

With deft skill, Joanne Bischof’s smooth writing voice once again sweeps readers into a simpler time—one mirroring the sadness and joys we feel today. In a world that grapples with why God allows bad things to happen to good people, Bischof’s novella offers true hope that carries us to the other side of grief. This Quiet Sky ministers to teens and adults who face unexpected loss, reminding us this world is not our home. A keeper.

(Also a similar theme to A Fault in Our Stars, but presenting the hope of Christ, which gives it a much better tone. This is one of the best novellas I’ve read).

Finally, for engrossing, high-paced romantic reads, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention our Smoke and Mirrors romantic suspense collection! It’s back to a 99c/Kindle price and it’s free for Kindle Unlimited. For this one, I’ll post some reader reviews:

Smoke and Mirrors Collection by Connie Almony, Sally Bradley, Hallee Bridgeman, Heather Day Gilbert, Kelli Hughett, Alana Terry, Rachel Trautmiller, and Alexa Verde

Reader Reviews on Amazon:

“A fast paced variety of suspense stories bringing faith and relationships together in each story. A great read.”

“Every novella was amazing in its own right! Full of suspense, thrills, action and of course some romance!! I wish I could pick a favorite in the set but I can’t they were all good. And at the end of each one, I wanted more!”

“Great mystery and suspense, along with romance and Christian values. Best deal in ages.”

(Remember this collection will be available for a limited time only! Hours of reading enjoyment and I know you’ll find a new author to love!)

So there are a few suggestions if you’re in the summer doldrums, looking for a good read. I hope you can check out these amazing authors!

-Heather