The lazy days of June have flown by, and with them came some incredible reads! Whether you’re looking for a cozy mystery or a heartwarming story to savor on a sunny afternoon, it’s time to unpack my June reads and share some recommendations! Let’s dive into the books that stole the show this month.
The Lonely Hearts Book Club Kindle Edition
by Lucy Gilmore
Sloane, a librarian in a quiet town, finds joy in the daily visits of Arthur, a grumpy yet oddly charming old man who browses the shelves and throws playful insults. When Arthur goes missing, Sloane’s worry turns to determination to help him. She discovers a lonely man hiding his happiness at her concern.
Hesitantly, Arthur and Sloane gather a motley crew of misfits, each with a love for books and a secret yearning for connection. As they delve into cherished stories, laughter, and shared experiences begin to chip away at their loneliness. They discover a sense of belonging and forge unlikely friendships, proving that even the most solitary souls can find solace and connection in the company of books and kindred spirits.
This heartwarming novel celebrates the power of books to bridge divides, spark conversation, and foster unexpected bonds. It’s about finding your people, embracing vulnerability, and the transformative power of shared stories.
** Loved this
** Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
** G- Clean
** My Shelf Rating: Top
** Re-readability factor: Most likely
** Recommendation: Yes (you will enjoy it)
** General Emotions: Hopeful, touched, Heartwarming, optimistic, Engaging
** Engagement Level: Highly Engaged: Couldn’t put it down, glued to the story.
Hope In The Heartbreak Of Estrangement: 31 devotions for parents of estranged adult children Kindle Edition
by Robin Dix
Feeling lost and confused after a personal estrangement? This book is your empathetic companion. The author, who has walked a similar path, offers understanding and hope for your journey.
The book delves into the raw emotions of estrangement—the pain, confusion, guilt, and shame—but it doesn’t stop there. It also explores the possibility of forgiveness, serenity, and, ultimately, reconciliation.
This is a comforting guide, promising that even in moments when you feel alone, God is with you. It shares personal experiences and practical resources to help navigate the complexities of estrangement.
This book offers a beacon of light, reminding you that you are not alone and there is hope for healing and a brighter future.
** Good Read
** Stars: ⭐⭐⭐
** G- Clean
** My Shelf Rating: Middle Shelf
** Re-readability factor: Probably not
** Recommendation: Yes
** General Emotions: Hopeful, touched, insightful, attentive
** Engagement Level: Slow start, but it did keep me interested and Thought-provoking
The Bookstore at Holiday Bay: Once Upon a Mystery Kindle Edition
by Kathi Daley
“The Bookstore at Holiday Bay” follows Lou Prescott, who was born in South Carolina, Lived in northern Minnesota, and is now living in Holiday Bay, Maine. After her husband’s death, she takes over her niece’s quaint seaside bookstore. Alongside her rescue cat Toby, Lou makes several improvements to the bookstore, including adding a coffee bar, pastry counter, and cat lounge with a rescue and adoption feature.
The most captivating part of Lou’s new life in Holiday Bay is the Tuesday night reader group, which initially started as a murder mystery book club. However, when a member of the group is found dead, the club members transition from discussing mysteries to solving them. The amateur sleuths, all passionate readers, band together to unravel the mystery surrounding their friend’s untimely demise. The storyline combines elements of bookstore life, friendship, and amateur detective work, creating an engaging and thrilling narrative.
** Loved this
** Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
** G- Clean
** My Shelf Rating: Middle Shelf
** Re-readability factor: Most likely
** Recommendation: Yes (you will enjoy it)
** General Emotions: Blissful, Jovial, Light-hearted
** Engagement Level: Moderately engaged, intriguing premise, kept me interested, enjoyable read, and well-paced.
Becoming Free Indeed: My Story of Disentangling Faith from Fear Kindle Edition
by Jinger Vuolo
“Becoming Free Indeed: My Story of Disentangling Faith from Fear” is a compelling memoir by Jinger Vuolo, a prominent figure in the Duggar family known for their reality TV shows. In this book, Jinger candidly reflects on her upbringing and how she grappled with the stringent belief system imposed on her during her formative years.
From a young age, Jinger wholeheartedly embraced the rigid teachings of her conservative upbringing, adhering to principles that seemingly governed every aspect of her life. However, as she entered her early twenties, the arrival of a new family member and the guidance of a pastor prompted her to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery and spiritual reevaluation.
Jinger delves into her earnest pursuit of a deeper understanding of the Bible, a process that ultimately led her to question the beliefs she had unquestioningly accepted for years. Through this introspective exploration, she unearthed a newfound sense of personal conviction and a realization that many of her long-held perceptions did not align with the Bible’s actual teachings.
“Becoming Free Indeed” offers a poignant account of Jinger’s struggle to reconcile her faith with the restrictive doctrines she once fervently upheld, ultimately emerging with a renewed and authentic connection to her Christian beliefs. This memoir serves as a testament to the power of introspection, personal growth, and the resilience of one’s faith in the face of profound transformation.
** Very Good Read
** Stars: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
** G- Clean
** My Shelf Rating: Middle Shelf
** Re-readability factor: I wouldn’t mind
** Recommendation: Yes (you will enjoy it)
** General Emotions: Memorable, Interested, Empathy, insightful, compelling
** Engagement Level: Moderately engaged. The intriguing premise kept me interested; it was an enjoyable read and was well-paced.
And
I got a new word search book.
That wraps up my June reads! It’s been a fantastic month for getting lost in a good story, and I can’t wait to hear what captivated all of you. Now’s the time to share your June favorites in the comments – did you discover a hidden gem or revisit a beloved classic? For those already itching for your next adventure, feel free to throw out any recommendations you have for July’s reading list. Happy reading, everyone – here’s to many more captivating chapters ahead!
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I really enjoyed Becoming Free Indeed. I appreciated that Jinger examined her beliefs in light of Scripture rather than throwing everything overboard when she realized some of what she had been taught was wrong.