Summer MUST reads (beach books for every occasion)!!

Hiii friends! Hope everyone is having a lovely week. Monday morning I arrived in Frisco, Texas, visiting my parents and brothers before I head back into the city. I woke up to BEAUTIFUL summer rain, and I was ecstatic. It is literally my fav thing ever, because you get the soft smell of rain, the feeling of being renewed, AND the weather is still warm! I was outside on the balcony journaling when I thought I should write this blog post, because being all cozy by the summer rain made me just want to read and read and read!

This summer I have been reading SO much, which always feel right at home to me. During the semester, it is so busy and chaotic, I feel I barely have much time to read FOR myself. So this is what I centered my choices around--- fun, light-weight, yet GOOD novels that really make summer come alive. Throughout the semester, us, students, all have to read stuff we don't necessarily want to, so when summer comes around I am sure to read all the fun, romantic books I couldn't quite get to during the semester. So if that sounds like something you might need too, a little fiction getaway, definitely keep reading!! (I also added a couple books that are a little more serious, and even a major tear-jerker, but sometimes it feels so good to cry over a book--- so I just couldn't leave it out!)

1. The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

This is one of my favorite reads because it literally made me smile and laugh the whole time. It is definitely a romance novel (and may not be suited for younger teens) but it literally SO light and funny. The novel focuses on a girl working for a publishing company, alongside a man who is her literal enemy. These two bicker and argue, and eventually have to compete with each other for the upcoming promotion. The classic enemies to lovers trope fits this novel perfectly, as it encapsulates sexual tension, hilarious awkwardness (which I can relate to) and work struggles. Go grab this one, you will not regret it.

2. It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover

THIS BOOK. I really cannot say enough about it --- and a ton of people have been raving over it the last 6 months for good reason. This book focuses on the life of a woman, and her romantic and work-related journey. It deals with heartbreak, breakthrough, abuse, and so much more. It is a literal rollercoaster ride. One thing I loved so much about this book was being able to see the character development (good and bad) in a such a subtle, yet strong way. It is really the showcasing of an amazing writer. WARNING: there are definitely trigger warnings in this books (for abuse) so that is something to be aware of... and this is a TEAR-JERKER (you will be sobbing by the end).

3. The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walter

This is one of the BEST summer reads because it is a full package summer novel: fun, romance-y read, just enough depth within writing, CUTE hot pink cover, and such a fun plot! This is a super light, feel-good read that just keeps you grinning. It definitely has its moments of depth -- such as the majority of the plot is around honoring and remembering the passing of the oldest sister. This books takes place in Martha's Vineyard, where a wedding party arrives for the marriage of the eldest cousin. The main character, Meredith, finally finds herself amongst family through a huge game of assassin, rekindling with long lost friends, and a new romance (a groomsman!). Go and get this book because it is so cute and makes you feel good inside (most of the time)!

4. 5 Ways to Fall Out of Love by Emily Martin

This is another pretty easy read, but really focuses on the struggles of high school -- and finding your identity during an insane time. Because the main character is going through family issues, boy issues, and future college issues, most people can relate and find comfort in her character! Beyond the great character development, there is a whirlwind of confusion concering her relationship with two boys in the book that definitely keeps you rooting for your internal fav. Overall, this book is such a fun, easy read that can be super nostalgic (if you are out of high school) or super comforting (if you are still in high school!). Check it out!

5. Defining Decade: Why Your Twenties Matter -- and How to Make the Most of Them by Meg Jay

Okay, this is my last recommendation and I saved it to the end because 1) it is a pretty specific audience (though I think you really could read this at any age) and 2) I have SO MANY amazing things to say about it. This is a self-help book that helps you navigate your 20s through research, data, and studies. It is so eye-opening, and if you know me personally at all, I could not stop talking about it for weeks after reading it. The author, Meg Jay, takes her research and knowledge as a clinical psychologist (studying twentysomethingyearolds) and breaks down how to really reach the full potential of your 20s through specific goals/steps circulating around work, relationships, and your own brain/thoughts! She also dives into just how important your 20s are and WHY! Go read this right now, especially if you are in your 20s... it might just save you a lot of time in your future.

(picture found via Pinterest)