What I Read in June 2022

After reading 23 books in May, my June started out a little slumpy. On top of that, I went into performances for my next contract. And top of that, everything is extra heavy and terrible. So, it was a month of mostly audiobooks. And that’s okay! I watched some new shows and spent time with friends. I did a lot of writing. It doesn’t make me any less of a reader. In fact, it probably made me a better reader because I was able to spend some time outside of books. When I get into a good groove again, I’ll appreciate the stories more.

I’m bummed because June didn’t have as many stand out reads as May did, which definitely contributed to my slumpy feeling. Hopefully July will bring brighter books and days because wow is it tough to focus right now.

On the plus side, my Summer long book buying ban and spending freeze has been going GREAT. I’m even more motivated for the month of July to completely cut out unnecessary spending so I can reevaluate which corporations my dollars are going to. The only way this country listens is when money is involved, so I’ll be making my representatives listen with my wallet.

To Sir with Love by Lauren Layne

It was cute, but I’d rather watch You’ve Got Mail.

The Office BFF’s by Jenna Fischer and Angela Kinsey

I don’t listen to their podcast so there weren’t any repeated stories for me. I thought it was great on audio and made me watch to rewatch The Office.

Set on You by Amy Lea

I went in with high hopes but it wasn’t calling to me. I was so sad because I loved the curvy rep!

Meant to be Mine by Hannah Orenstein

A surprising standout! I loved how this book was paced and the story was unique and familiar without feeling cliche. Thank you Atria Books for my copy.

Mean Baby by Selma Blair

An important memoir about living with disabilities and addiction. I listened to the audiobook and it’s full of raw emotions, so listen with care.

12 to 22 by Jen Calonita

This middle grade was inspired by 13 Going on 30 but in the Influencer Era. It was a charming, moving, quick read and would be great to read alongside your middle schooler. Thank you Random House Children’s for my copy.

Chef’s Kiss by TJ Alexander

Ah this book! I thought it was so adorable and also very informative for me as a cis person. It was charming and romantic, plus fun and delicious with all the food references.

Nothing But the Truth by Holly James

I thought this book was going to feel a little like a modern day/grown up Ella Enchanted. But it fell flat for me too! I was so sad because I loved the dedication but it just didn’t work for me. Thank you Dutton Books for my copy.

The Lesbiana’s Guide to Catholic School by Sonora Reyes

Probably one of my favorite standouts from the month. As someone who went to Catholic School their entire life, phew was this relevant. Another really great book to read alongside teens and have real discussions.

The Coppersmith Farmhouse by Devney Perry

This is series Ashley wanted me to read and she warned me the MMC in this first book would anger me. He certainly did! Like, wow, toxic masculinity. She assures me the rest of the series gets better so we’ll see! I like the small town universe.

The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand

I thought this book would provide the perfect escape, since I used to love her books*….but wow was I bored and turned off by the writing. I used to love “rich people problems” books but I don’t think that’s my taste anymore. We all outgrow things and EH is definitely not for me anymore. Thank you Little Brown for my copy.

The Clover Chapel by Devney Perry

I liked the second book in the Jamison Valley series much more. These are easy, cozy audiobooks and I look forward to getting further into the series because apparently one feels similar to The Simple Wild!