What I Read in August

As summer winds down (it's not over! it's not over!), so does my reading list. I tried to cram in as much beach reading as I could this year, trying to balance reading with writing. But as edits and revisions took over my life for this new novel, I was only able to read five books. Still, they were good ones: Elin Hilderbrand (Queen of the Summer Beach Read) released this one in June, just in time for a summer beach read. As the author herself turned 50 in July, she tells a story about four siblings (sisters Blair, Kirby, and Jessie, brother Tiger) who each experience that memorable summer in different ways. The moon landing, Woodstock, and the Chappaquiddick incident on 'the other island' are all featured. Definitely a must-read. I bought my copy at Ink Fish Books I stopped by my other favorite local bookstore, Stillwater Books, and found this one. Looked good, so I picked it up. OMG. This book! As soon as I finished it, I told my husband he had to read it. He's really into it. It's a novel based on a real-life scandal, involving the kidnapping of poor children and selling them to wealthy families. Heartwrenching but ultimately hopeful. She's probably my favorite author, and I couldn't believe I hadn't read this book. It was part of my library's big book sale (yes, I filled a giant tote bag!). It took me a little longer to be invested in this one, but Quindlen never disappoints me. This book was first published in 2002, and delves into family secrets and why they're kept. Beautifully crafted, with rich descriptions and characters you can almost feel sitting next to you. This one I downloaded through my library's program (I don't think Hilderbrand needs the money, so why not spend on local and indie books?). Maybe I missed it, but this is part of a series. The ending left me feeling unsatisfied, but that was because there's a sequel coming. Apparently the sequel drops in early October. Still a good book, but if you're a fast reader like me, maybe it's better to wait until all the books are out. I also downloaded this one through my library. It's a collection of essays, with recipes. Unfortunately, I knew most of these stories already, and they seemed somewhat disjointed (introducing us to her grandmother Mama Rose once was sufficient). The recipes were fine, although a chapter devoted to butchering a pig was, to me, revolting. Still, Hood can write, and many will find this book charming. So, no more "What I  Read" posts for a while. I need to get this book done!However, if you love reading as much as I do, and if you're on Facebook, we've got a great event coming up November 18. It's a Rhode Island Authors Showcase featuring a variety of authors. Each one will have something to give away, and the Grand Prize is a $250 Amazon gift card, just in time for some serious shopping. You can find the link HERE and it's all online. I hope you'll join us!