26. Blind Date With A Book
I've set up a few dates for you ...
I wanted to do something fun this week, something more about enjoying books than connecting philosophically like I do accidentally a lot of the time. So, here is my version of blind date with a book! I’ve chosen four of my favorite books. These range from romance to historical fiction to fantasy. And not always the kind of fantasy you’re thinking about. I really enjoyed putting these together, so I’d be happy to do a part 2 if you are interested!
Book 1
Our souls were tied together a long time ago, I think. We’re just finally admitting it to each other.
I unexpectedly adored this book. There was an actual smile on my face the entire time. I believe that this is one of three books that I’ve read that has done a certain trope well. The characters are pure, kind, and realistic. The journey meaningful and anticipatory. The ending was pure magic.
Read this if you like …
romance
disability representation
unexpected pregnancy
a pirate meet cute
friends to lovers
finding your identity and belonging
Book 2
You must learn in life to take things more lightly, my dear. The world is always changing. Learn how to allow for it.
Let us not become so cautious that we forget to live.
I had put reading this book off for so long, and I regret it immensely. I was immersed in the world while growing up alongside our main character. The life she chooses and finds for herself is a lot different than what my passions are, so I found myself learning a lot about others, putting myself in someone else’s shoes. This book is a beautiful reminder that not everyone’s life, particularly a woman’s, has to follow a specific path.
Read this if you like …
historical fiction
women’s fiction
growing up with a character
realistic (aka imperfect) characters
Book 3
May your Paths be safe, your Floors unbroken and may the House fill your eyes with Beauty.
The Beauty of the House is immeasurable; its Kindness infinite.
Oh my GOSH. This is the best book to go into with no expectations. Actually, don’t even read the summary. I cannot begin to describe to you the journey you take in this book, how absolutely brilliant the author is. I deeply want to reread it again, but I know it will never be the same as my first read. Go in with an open mind and no expectations, and I promise you will like this book.
Read this if you like …
mythology
fantasy
mystery
wonder
Book 4
Girls like her don’t get to dream. Girls like her get to survive. Most days, that’s enough. Today, she doesn’t think it is.
Thinking about these four books again have me buzzing, itching to reread them. This book was an unexpected delight - all the best books are. You are certain to love and feel for our main character. I want to hug her and protect her from the world, yet she is brave and smart and a wonder. The plot and world here are unique, and due to that, it is incredibly interesting.
Read this if you like …
fantasy
magical realism
dual POV
a town by the sea
a magical hunt
Warning! Book reveals below!
Ok … just making sure …
Book 1 is ….
… Out on a Limb by Hannah Bonam-Young!
This is a truly fantastic romance. As I mentioned, it has been one of three books I’ve read that does the unexpected pregnancy trope well. Read this if you’re looking for a heart warming romance that will have you grinning the whole time.
Book 2 is …
… City of Girls by Elizabeth Gilbert!
What a fantastic historical fiction book. I was entranced with New York and the theatre. I loved following Vivian’s life and seeing where she ended up. It makes me feel excited for my future.
Book 3 is …
… Piranesi by Susanna Clarke!
All I have to say is that I read this in the fall, haven’t stopped thinking about it, and bought myself a physical copy for my birthday. Read this book!!
Book 4 is …
… A Far Wilder Magic by Allison Saft!
Margaret and Wes have my entire heart, especially Margaret. I was so interested in our magical hunt and Saft’s version of magic. A sweet and interesting stand alone fantasy!
Um wow! I am blown away every week by the creativity and number of releases. If anyone knows a way to see self-publishing books more specifically, I would love to feature those.
Dreadful by Caitlin Rozakis (Fantasy): May 28th, 2024
Look on the Bright Side by Kristan Higgins (Romance): May 28th, 2024
Evocation by S.T. Gibson (Fantasy): May 28th, 2024
The Winner by Teddy Wayne (Thriller): May 28th, 2024
All’s Fair in Love and War (Miss Prentice’s Protegees #1) by Virginia Heath (Historical Romance): May 28th, 2024
Books I’ve compiled from mainly the NYT Bestsellers List, but also the B&N Top 100 and Amazon Bestsellers in no particular order. I’ve decided to simply add the books I haven’t before, since I’ve caught up to the new additions. If you’re curious, last week’s post can be found here.
Think Twice (Myron Bolitar #12) by Harlan Coben (Mystery/Thriller)
The Dixon Rule (Campus Diaries #2) by Elle Kennedy (Romance)
The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren (Romance)
All Fours by Miranda July (Fiction)
I had to do Christina Lauren for this week.
How cute!! Christina Lauren is the combined pen name of BFF writers Christina and Lauren. They excel at YA and NA fiction and romance, having over twenty New York Times bestsellers. I’ve read a few of their romances: The Unhoneymooners and Love & Other Words. The second one … OH MY GOSH. Talk about a tearjerker. And the first was a fun romance with great banter! I have heard great things about their other books as well!
Honestly, I think it is so fun that they share this passion with each other. I can’t imagine how solid their friendship has to be to write all these books together. I’ve found that book writing is very vulnerable and constantly changing. To share that for years … wow.
Lauren is a smartypants, with her doctorate in neuroscience. Before writing books, she researched neurodegeneration in aging. That is so fascinating! Christina is probably one of the most patient humans, with her previous job being a middle school counselor. I think this goes to show that writers are not just writers - they are mothers, fathers, travelers, scientists, counselors, teachers, artists … everyone starts out somewhere.
You can learn more at their website here and Instagram here.
Just a reminder to submit any books you think others will love on the R&R page or to my email: thesundayreads@gmail.com!
As I’ve already given you four book recs, I’ll skip this one today!
That’s all for today. Much love
Izzy
This was fun. Please do part 2. Thank you!
I'm afraid I had a .000 batting average on this. But I love having my eyes opened. Thanks!