I made a pact with myself that at some point over the summer, I would slip in lighter reads. You’ll see that I was able to utilize my vacation days for just that.
On Our Best Behaviour | Elise Loenen
This book entered my life after I made a list of books for research. After finding this title, it was inevitable that I read it. Elise does a fantastic job of showing how the seven (or eight, depending on your system) have interwoven themselves into our lives and society for no benefit other than to maintain control over women. This read was another permission slip my spirit had been aching for.
How We Learn to Be Brave | Mariann Edgar Budde
Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde was unknown to me until the moment she addressed the latest American President in a plea for mercy and compassion for minority groups and peoples as he took office. A plea that those in positions of faith and service to their communities can so easily understand. It did not surprise me that the majority of ‘conservative’ voices diminished her words and her bravery through ‘word salad’ commentaries. Some even decided to cloak their dismissiveness of her message with a patriarchal message that overrode her intelligence, compassion and life's work.
We will not remember them.
However, the history books will remember Mariann and her straightforward message, which so many before her have carried. Her book is just as humble, peace-driven, and compassionate as her speech on January 24, 2025. Worth the read - wherever you land on the political and faith spectrum.
The Housemaid | Freida McFadden
I inhaled this over vacation only to be left with an errie feeling I had read this book before. One of my favourite breakout novels, ‘The Last Mrs.Parish’ from years ago, left a mark on my memory I will never forget. It was hard to shake after closing Freida’s book, whether or not this was intentional - there were too many similarities. Will I read more of her work? More than likely. Will I be attentive to her storytelling techniques? Even more so.
I Am, I Am, I Am | Maggie O’Farrell
I was told many times that I should read this memoir. It delivered. I Am, I Am, I Am shows what it looks like to take a theme that a writer cannot shake and provide the reader with an engaging yet nuanced look at all the varied sides of said theme. This memoir will have a permanent spot on my bookshelf.
The Last Garden in England | Julia Kelly
I fell in love with this book. Julia crafts sections and character arcs that span time, allowing one to feel truly immersed. Worth the read if you enjoy stories told in different eras, all having a common thread.
The Bookclub for Troublesome Women | Marie Bostwick
My aunt and I often enjoy reading at least one book a year together. This one was a pick she found, and I happily joined. This novel portrays a diverse range of 1960s women at various stages of life as they navigate the rise of feminism, as well as books such as ‘The Feminine Mystique’. Naturally, reading this book also led me to order Betty Friedan’s The Feminine Mystique for historical context and personal research.
Body Work | Melissa Febos
A recommended read from my master’s program. I left this book feeling clearer on my own memoir trajectory and directive while also being moved and inspired at the same time.
Clemintine | Sarah Pennypacker
Having previously enjoyed Sarah’s longer works, I wondered how Clementine stood up. As the cover suggests, she stands wonderfully upside down. My resident ten-year-old enjoyed her too.
Every Summer After | Carley Fortune
There is a reason Carley became known for her great Canadian beach reads. If you need one, pick one of hers. They are precisely what one needs to enjoy a light but engaging read for a summer weekend.
*may have a renewed love for the Greek name: Persephone.
Little White Lies | Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Reads like Tiny Pretty Things, this book is an excellent choice if you are looking for a fast-paced, engaging read.
This Won’t End Well | Camille Pagan
I found Camille’s protagonist entertaining and enjoyed the ‘mystery’ within the plot. That said, something about the duplicity of both ‘antagonists’ didn’t make a complete landing for me. All in all, still enjoyed the read.
Recovering From Puriety Culture | Camden Morgante
As soon as this hit the market, it was an obvious must-read. I sincerely appreciate how Dr. Morgan uses a matter-of-fact approach to dismantling the impact of purity culture on women. She leaves a lot of room for those who still have faith, but also speaks clinically to those who are wondering why they are still wounded and suffering emotionally from these teachings. Her work online continues to serve those of us who are on a healing mission for ourselves and those women around us.