Books I Read: July

July was an insanely busy month for me, but I still managed to finish seven books! Five of these books were audio books, each was in the 5-7 hour range, so significantly shorter than my usual 11-25 hours audio books. While I didn’t have as much time to sit and read physical books, I started walking in the mornings, which gave me extra hours to listen to books.

If you have never tried audio books, I encourage you to get an audible subscription. You’ll get two free audiobooks when you sign up, I think you will really love it.

Also, I didn’t read one physical book that I owned this month. The library was the boss of me. With a vacation coming up in two weeks, I will definitely be picking a few books from my own shelves to read this month. Honestly, I think I need to take a break from the library and get back to reading what I already own.

Here’s what I read in July, what I’m reading now and a book you NEED to buy today before the price goes up!

Not My Father’s Son (audio book): This is actor Alan Cumming’s memoir about his father, his abusive childhood and discovering his family history. I didn’t know much about Alan, but after several years of seeing this audio book recommended, I bought it. It was fantastic. Alan’s Scottish accent and poignant writing made for an incredible listen.
5 stars

Between Breaths (audio book): Elizabeth Vargas, of 20/20 and Good Morning America fame recounts her spiral into alcohol addiction and her fight to get sober. As a mother, I found myself reeling every time Elizabeth would drink again, the impact on her kids and husband significant. An eye-opening book about addiction.
5 stars

Magnolia Story (audio book): Chip and Joanna Gaines share their personal and business history in this sweet book. Chip and Joanna read the book in the audio version, making it a delight to listen to. I loved learning more about them and how they achieved the success they have had to date.
4 stars

Good Behavior (audio book): Last year, you might remember that Dark Matter was one of my favorite books of the year. This book is three novellas written by the same author, Blake Crouch. I LOVED, LOVED, LOVED this! A mix of thriller and mystery with a strong female lead, you will fall in love with Letty Dobesh immediately. I can’t stop talking about this audio book.
5 stars

Get Your Sh!t Together (audio book): I listened to this book for research for the book I am working on right now (more soon!). I found a lot of her principles to good, but the language in the book is crass, and at times, dilutes her message.
3 stars

The Ocean at the End of the Lane (library book): This book hit #1 on the New York Times and I will never understand why. I reserved it after so many people raved about it in The Book Club, but I hated it. It is a short book, so I forced myself to finish it – something I rarely do, but I felt like maybe, just maybe it would redeem itself. If you like fantasy, this book may be for you. If not, definitely skip it.
2 stars

I See You (library book): Written by author of I See You (one of my favorite thrillers of 2016), I was thrilled to get my hands on this book at the library. While I wasn’t as quickly drawn into this book as I was her last, Clare Mackintosh still managed to pull off an awesome twist at the end. A solid thriller and perfect weekend read.
3.5 stars

What I’m Reading Now

Grace (audio book): I’m just a few hours in, but loving this story told in alternating viewpoints of a runaway slave and her daughter.

Almost Sisters (library book): I literally just opened this book last night, but am excited to dive in because SO many people are talking about this book right now.

I also received my Book of the Month books last week, and they are calling to me. Lots of good choices this month. Maybe this is the month for you to take the leap and try them out? It’s just $9.99 for your first month and they now bill month to month, making it really affordable!

Book to buy TODAY

I get a lot of books sent to me, but I don’t think I have ever been as excited for a book as I am about GraceLaced. It is one of the most beautiful books I have ever seen. Moreover, the message of flourishing during different seasons is one that we all need. Written by a working mom of 6, this book is a breath of fresh air and one that will truly resonate with you.

Today only, you can pre-order it for 50% off from Amazon (it releases September 1). Trust me when I say, this price will never be this low again – at least not for the next year. Do NOT wait to buy this book. You want it for you. You want it for your friends. I ordered two to give as gifts this Christmas. I might order more today. I’m seriously obsessed with this book.

After you pre-order, click here to get some pre-order freebies.

Previous What I Read Posts for 2017

June 2017 Reads (5 books)

May 2017 Reads (6 books)

March & April 2017 Reads (7 books)

February 2017 Reads (4 books)

January 2017 Reads (7 books)

TOTAL BOOKS I’VE READ IN 2017: 36