You guys, I’ve been slacking. We hit the road a couple weeks ago, which has preoccupied my focus as we seek out new and remote places to camp. My bad! I’ve also been reading a TON during the pandemic, which has honestly been a great way to pass the time. And I’ve read some fantastic books lately! Without further ado, here are my top book recommendations for May.
Whisper Network
By Chandler Baker
Four women learn their boss (a man who has always been surrounded by rumors about how he treats women) is next in line to be CEO. What will happen when they decide enough is enough?
How can I even begin to review such a powerful, razor-sharp novel? The Whisper Network is probably one of the best books I’ve EVER read. As a working mom, I could’ve sworn the author peered directly into my thoughts on juggling a career, motherhood and life in between. Each chapter begins from the collective working mothers experience, with so much accuracy that it sometimes felt like a page out of my own diary. It truly is a working woman’s manifesto. This novel should be read by everyone — men and women alike. Absolutely fantastic… I honestly can’t praise this enough. READ IT NOW! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
Before Familiar Woods
By Ian Pisarcik
In a small Vermont town, two teenage boys are found dead in their tent. Three years later, the boys’ fathers disappear together. What follows is a magnetic, compelling story of how one mother is reminded of the past while forging ahead for answers to her future.
It’s hard to believe this is the author’s debut — his characters offer so much depth that it’s impossible to put this book down. Settle in; this one will sit with you for awhile. I highly recommend Before Familiar Woods. A special thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane for this advanced copy. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
Tell the Wolves I’m Coming Home
By Carol Rifka Brunt
Two lonely people become the unlikeliest of friends and discover that sometimes you don’t know you’ve lost someone until you’ve found them.
I’ve had this one the shelf for years, but it got lost in the sea of books along the way. As we were moving this book kept popping into view, so I decided to give it a go. I’m glad I did! This coming-of-age novel is poignant and beautiful. It will tug on your heartstrings, then make you smile wide. If you’re like me and missed this bestseller during its peak — grab a copy and enjoy. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
The Second Home
By Christina Clancy
The Second Home is a mesmerizing, heartfelt and long-standing family drama about three siblings whose lives are changed forever one summer… and again as adults.
As I read this book, and couldn’t help thinking it would make a fantastic movie or TV series. The character development is incredibly detailed, so much so that you find yourself rooting for each sibling — even when they’re in conflict with each other. For a debut novel, Christina Clancy knocked it out of the park! Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martins Press for providing me with an advanced copy. ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel
By Rolf Potts
Vagabonding is about taking time off from your normal life — from six weeks to four months to two years — to discover and experience the world on your own terms.
If you’ve ever considered a life of travel and adventure, I dare you to read this book! Filled with life-changing perspective on the joys of hitting the road, I can honestly say this is one book both Steven and I keep coming back to again. If you’re ready to be inspired beyond your wildest dreams, check it out. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5 stars
What books have you read lately? Anything good? Drop a line in the comments and let a girl know!
One Comment
Karen Hadwen
Thanks for the suggestions. The only one I’ve read is vagabonding. I’m currently reading The Red Tent. I also recently read Mornings in Jenin.