Historical Fiction seems to be my new favorite genre. When people ask me what books I would recommend lately I have suggested an historical fiction book and the quote above is so true. Imagine how cool your history class would be if it was taught like a Ken Follett book.  Historical Romance books have been intriguing me as well. The women tend to be strong willed, independent women who have no rights and are trying to escape the norm. I’ve learned a lot from both genres and I highly recommend checking out the books mentioned this month. I will also create a page of my favorites soon.

History not your thing? Not to worry there were tons of Chic Lit and Mysteries this month as well. Don’t forget to look for this little guy if you are looking for beach reads. 

1. The Crown by Kiera Cass
2. I Never Had It Made by Jackie Robinson
3. Clara’s War by Clara Kramer
4. The Mime Order by Samantha Shannon
5. Guardian of Paradise by W.E. Lawrence

The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood – Well unfortunately not all classics can be winners. I really did not enjoy this book. A little too much religion/big brother extremism for my taste.  I didn’t even finish it.

 

Clara’s War by Clara Kramer – (NonFiction) I am going to Poland this summer and this is the second book I have read about WWII in Poland. Very similar to Anne Frank’s diary as the story was told because of a diary but in this case the author survived and expanded upon her notes in the diary. Her story was darker and scarier but they survived to tell about it. In her city only 50 out of 5000 Jews survived. It was a hard book to read but I learned more about the war, Jewish holidays and prayers and life after WWII. NOTE – I wouldn’t recommend reading this book before bed. It gave me nightmares.

Sweet Masterpiece by Connie Shelton – (Light Mystery)  Cute mystery with a touch of magic that will have you craving chocolate and cupcakes! 

I Never Had It Made by Jackie Robinson – (NonFiction) This book was so much more than just Jackie Robinson and baseball. It was about life before and after baseball, family, politics and so much more! If you think you knew Jackie Robinson…think again! One key point he made in the book was about power – and you have it with the vote and the bank. If you don’t have the bank then you need to get out there and vote. I am sure that if he was alive today he would be extremely disappointed.

It Takes a Spy by Sheridan Jeane – (Historical Romance/Mystery) This book was different in many ways. First the main characters actually talked to each other about their doubts, second there was a mystery and third, it wasn’t all about sex. Fun read!

Ravished by a Highlander by Paula Quinn – (Historical Romance) I listened to this book audibly and the narrator was just ok. I have heard better Scottish accents but I got used to it after a while and really started enjoying the book. Interesting story especially if you like Scottish romance and jealous men.

Driven to Date by Susan Hatler – (Chic Lit) Better Date than Never Series Fun fast read even if the main character was a little crazy with the whole PML (pre-mid-life) crisis going. Great for the beach. 

The Mime Order by Samantha Shannon – (YA Fantasy) WOW! This is book two of the Bone Season and I think I like this one more. Fast paced and filled with twists, turns, and a surprise ending.

Déjà Date by Susan Hatler – (Chic Lit) Another cute book in the Better Date than Never Series.  Fun fast read that will again make you crave cupcakes.

The Crown by Kiera Cass – (YA) I loved this series and this was a perfect ending. I love HEAs 🙂

Bachelors of Buttermilk Falls Series by Robyn Neeley – (Chic Lit) Super fun series with a little bit of magic. Perfect for the beach! 

Push Not the River by James Conroyd Martin – (Historical Fiction) Part 1 of the Poland Trilogy available on Kindle Unlimited. Interesting look at Poland in the 1700s in the age of Catherine the Great of Russia. Great characters and interesting history.

Guardian of Paradise by W.E. Lawrence – (Romance) If I lived in paradise I would protect it too! The main character is strong, resilient and kicks ass when needed. Adventure with a touch of romance.

School of Gallantry Series by  Delilah Marvelle – (Historical Romance) I’ve finished 4 of the 7 so far. Fun, fast reads that will surprise you and make you wish this school existed now. The books weave around an old French courtesan who believes in romance and uses the school to bring couples together.

Heir of Fire by Sarah J. Maas – (YA Fantasy) I can’t enough of this series! This is the 3rd in the series and it just keeps getting better. I’ve been listening to them audibly and the narrator does a great job. Strong characters, twists turns and plenty of action with a touch of romance.

Another Saturday Night and I Ain’t Got No Body by Jennie Marts – (Chic Lit) Hilarious! Perfect for vacation and free on Kindle Unlimited! 

Spirelli Paranormal Investigations: Episodes: 1-3 by Kate Baray – (Paranormal Mysteries)  I wanted to read something different and boy this was different. Short mysteries with a dragon and paranormal fun!