From Beach to Bookshelf: My Top Four Summer Reads

Hello Beholders!

Despite a packed schedule of working at Boeing, starting graduate classes, hitting the gym, and savoring my summer days, I still managed to dive into some fantastic novels. Here are my four favorite books from this summer – I hope you discover something new to read!

“The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig

I kicked off my summer reading with this thought-provoking novel. It follows Nora Seed, a deeply unhappy middle-aged woman who attempts suicide but instead finds herself in some sort of in-between life. This setting is called the Midnight Library. Here, each book represents a different version of her life based on alternate choices. As Nora explores these paths, she learns valuable lessons about regret, self-discovery, and life’s true value.

While I found the story to be somewhat predictable, the book’s engaging story and uplifting message resonated with me. As someone that has gone through phases of thinking that my life would be better if I were somewhere else or had something else, I appreciated how the novel explores the idea that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side and life is what you make it. 

“The Paris Architect” by Charles Belfoure

This historical fiction novel is set in Nazi-occupied Paris during World War II. Lucien Bernard, a struggling architect, reluctantly agrees to design hiding places for Jews in exchange for money. As he creates more hideouts, he becomes entangled in dangerous relationships within the Gestapo.

I loved this book for its compelling setting. I find novels that take place during the Holocaust to be extra intriguing because I’m able to put myself in the shoes of someone that lived during one of the world’s most important conflicts. Additionally, I appreciated the ethical dilemmas that were faced in this novel. It beautifully illustrates how ordinary people can become extraordinary in challenging circumstances. 

“All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr

Another World War II novel, this story alternates between Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a German orphan with a talent for radio engineering. Their paths eventually intersect in a beautifully crafted narrative. There is also a diamond that plays a huge role in the novel and if there’s anything that could keep me interested in a book, it’s a famous diamond with a myth tied to it. 

This unique novel stands out for its complex plot, poetic writing style, and powerful themes. It highlights human connection during wartime and the impact of conflict on ordinary people, especially children.

This novel is extremely unique in both its writing style and the actual plot. For that I think this is a novel that’s extremely important for everyone to read. I will admit this is a popular book and I definitely see the reason for that!

“The Housemaid” by Freida McFadden

I ended my summer with this thrilling psychological novel. Millie Calloway, a young woman with a troubled past, becomes a live-in housemaid for the wealthy Winchester family. As she uncovers dark family secrets, the story takes unexpected turns, building to a shocking climax.

This was one of the most suspenseful novels I’ve ever read. While it explores themes of power dynamics and deception, its main strength lies in its sheer entertainment value. I have the second book in this series waiting for me on my nightstand and I can’t wait to dig in!

I hope you’ve enjoyed this peek into my summer reads and maybe found your next book. As always, the Amazon links are attached to the titles of the novels and the photos. Happy reading!

Sending virtual hugs and high-fives,

Chlo

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