And just like that it was May! A new month, which calls for new books to be read, worlds to be explored and sunnier titles to take over from the rainy classics we love in winter. The leaves may be turning to the trees, however, it is the pages within the falling books that I hope spring you into reading action this month!

Good Morning Lovelies,

We are speeding into the summer months now, which means it is time to get those summer holiday books ready. May will hopefully bring with it lots of sunshine, which has truly influenced my display at Hertford Library this month. 

It’s time to get ready for the upcoming heatwave with one of these happy, sunny and gripping reads…

Six Truths and A Lie by Ream Shukairy: This book deep dives into the American justice system, as six friends become suspects, when a serious crime takes place. Shocking, emotional and gripping, you won’t believe what you are reading. Each page hooks you in until the very end.

Women of Good Fortune by Sophie Wan: Fans of Crazy Rich Asians will love this book. Following a reluctant bride and her best friends, this book will have you laughing all the way into wedding season. Each woman in the novel has their own problem to face, which makes for a very entertaining read.

Song of Freedom, Song of Dreams by Shari Green: Set in the 80s, this poetic book follows two young g characters facing the fall of the Berlin Wall. You can feel the emotion in every single line. A quick but powerful page turner. 

Token by Beverley Kendall: This refreshing take on the romance genre mixes in hard topics, such as tokenism and racism, with heartfelt loving moments. Telling the story of a young black PR firm creator, the second chance romance in the book will hit you in all the feels.

The Lifeline by Tom Ellen: Now more than ever, people are facing high levels of loneliness. Touching on this in his new book, Ellen shares the power of connection through the conversations his characters have. Interesting, daring and powerful for audiences of all ages. 

Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell: Years ago, this was the book that everyone was reading. Not what you are expecting at all, you will cry, laugh and hold your heart, as you discover the truth behind the characters within the book. 

Reasons To Be Cheerful by Nina Stibbe: With the sun now back in the sky, longer days arriving and the smell of summer in the air, there are many reasons to be cheerful. In Stibbe’s book, she uses her story to list more reasons, even if they are being ironic at times. You will come away feeling a whole lot lighter after reading. 

Interesting Facts about Space by Emily Austin: Things seem to be going really well for 

Enid, the lead in this book. Starting a new relationship, rebuilding the one with her family and coming to terms with life all seem to be working for her. However, when she begins to believe she is being followed, her anxiety causes her to begin to judge herself. An interesting take on how we can’t always outrun ourselves.

Clover Hendry's Day Off by Beth Morrey: At 46, Clover Hendry has decided to declare a state of fuck it life. Never one to say no, she begins to rebel against the norm and take the day off. Teaching herself and those around her that she isn’t all that she seems, Clover may just come away better than before. 

The 24 Hour Cafe by Libby Page: Every day, no matter what time, the staff at Stella’s Cafe welcome everyone in. However, it soon becomes apparent that it may be them who need to take a break and relax. Thought provoking, enriching and life altering, this is a fantastic book to pick up this summer.

Book of the Month: Anna O by Matthew Blake: Do we really know what happens when we go to sleep? Do our nightmares actually tell the truth? When one woman murders two people in her sleep, she fails to wake up again. With psychologists brought up to find out what has happened to her, you will not be able to put this book down until you discover the truth. One of the best books of the year so far lovelies! 

What have you all been reading? Let me know! 

Best,

Joey X