Good Morning Lovelies,

Earlier this month, I went to my local library on a mission. As someone who adores reading again, I wanted to share my passion of books with others in my local area. Having spotted an influencer shelf inside the door of the book heaven I visit, I decided to ask Hertford Library if I could do someone the same. And kindly they agreed! 

Together, with the manager, I chose ten new and old books that I hope you can all enjoy during the month of July. Ranging from all ages, these are my pick off some of the shelves…

Seven Exes by Lucy Vine: Have you ever wondered if the one you didn’t up with could have actually been the one? In this novel, Vine’s leading lady decides to go back in time to find out if that might just be the case. Funny and light, this is the perfect book to read whilst relaxing in the garden. 

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han: When I was younger, I was obsessed with these books! Adapted for Prime Video UK last year, this July marks the return of the highly successful show. However, if you want to know what happens first, then you should definitely read this three part series, which shares the life of Belly and the boys who make her summer feel right. 

Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus: What would you do if your job landed you a tole on TV? Set in the 60s, this novel is an inspiration to all, using the world of STEM and cooking to bring girl power to the front. One of the best books I have read in years. 

No One Saw A Thing by Andrea Mara: If you are looking for a sense of mystery this summer than you will find it with this book. When two little girls jump on a train, just as the doors are closing, one mother runs to catch them up at the next stop. However, when she only finds one waiting for her, she must start an investigation to find out where the other went. You honestly won’t be able to put this one down!

Parenting Hell by Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe: Whether you have listened to the famous podcast this book is based on or not, Rob and Josh will make you laugh a lot. Full of parenting mishaps, including interviews with their partners and parents, it will make you feel warm and cosy inside. 

Seven Days in June by Tia Williams: Another romance book making the list, but with a very big difference. Faced with many challenges and sexual adventures, this is an adult novel that will have you longing for the two central characters to realise how much they belong together. You will have to read it to find out if they do or not! 

The People on Platform 5 by Claire Pooley: Whether you commute to work or not, there are many people who become recognisable when you go past them. However, would you ever go up to them? When a passenger nearly chokes to death on a train, those that save him, including an eccentric elderly lady, begin to bond. A story of friendship, hope and love all wrapped up in one.

Preloved by Lauren Bravo: Every wondered about the stories or history behind your charity shop buys? This book explores just how one volunteers items are all connecting and the effects those items had on the people who once owned them. As someone who volunteered in a shop, Bravo has got this spot on. 

Chinglish by Sue Cheung: Having grown up in a Chinese restaurant, Cheung has turned her childhood into a novel that will leave you feeling all kinds of emotions. From the local shops around her to the way in which her family runs the shop, you will find that things don’t all seem to add up in the young characters head. It’s her realisation that make this a page turner for teenagers and adults. 

Love & Saffron by Kim Fay: Have you ever written into a magazine? Or given a letter to someone you admire? This book explores the bond built between two women, one a magazine editor and the other someone who is inspired by her recipes, as they come together to form their friendship. The description of each dish will leave you looking for snacks from the first page. 

What have you been reading this July? Head to Hertford Library now to find the selection above on a special shelf. And don’t worry, I’ve chosen a few more to keep you entertained if some of these disappear! 

Happy Reading! 

Joey X