This summer, I’ve really put an effort into reading more and finding enjoyment in stories and works of literary fiction, which is something I used to do a lot more frequently than I do now. Due to my required reading for classes and the ever-present feeling that I lack time, reading is definitely the hobby that has fallen to the back of my mind the most. Despite this struggle, I’ve been trying my best to read every day and make more time for this activity in my life. Although I’ve been working hard, there are, of course, some books on my To Be Read list that I have yet to get through.

1. “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” by Gabrielle Zevin

As an avid book shopper, I seem to always come across this book due to its fancy cover and consistently top-ranked status. “Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow” is a book about college friends who become business partners in making video games. They gain success and fame while cultivating a friendship that, to outsiders, looks to be more than what they believe. I’m really excited to read this book, due to its fun concept and deep character development. 

2. “The Priory of the Orange Tree” by Samantha Shannon

At the beginning of my love affair with reading, I used to spend hours upon hours reading and rereading fantasy novels. Since then, I’ve phased into more fiction and memoir-like literature. I’ve recently been attempting to reignite my passions for fantasy and worldbuilding, and I believe this LGBTQ+ fantasy novel might just be the perfect way to go about doing this. I’ve heard really great things about this book, and although its sheer page count is daunting, I’m excited to immerse myself into the world of high fantasy once again through this novel. 

3. “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder” by Holly Jackson

I’ve always loved a good mystery novel, and so I’m sure I’ll enjoy “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder.” This book has been recommended to me countless times, and I even have a copy sitting in my bedroom that I have yet to pick up — so there’s no more excuses for me at this point! This book is also a series which makes me excited to fully immerse myself into a world again for a period of time. I’ve heard amazing things from friends about this novel, so I can’t wait to give it a go. 

4. “Stars and Smoke” by Marie Lu

Marie Lu is one of my favorite authors of all time, so it should come as no surprise that reading her newest novel is high on my to-do list. I love books that have fame and enemies to lovers as focal points, which are both elements that Marie Lu has provided in her newest installment. I was even lucky enough to attend her book signing and receive a signed copy of her book, making it even more surprising that I have yet to read it. I can’t wait to sit down and really focus on this book as soon as I get the chance. 

5. “Book Lovers” by Emily Henry

As a member of the reading community, I have heard a lot of praise surrounding Emily Henry and her romance novels. Allegedly, she has strong characters, interesting plots and love stories you can’t help but root for. I’m really excited to read a love story about book lovers, especially since I consider myself a book lover and, with Emily Henry’s fame, I know this book will be a great read. 

I have been reading a bunch this summer and can’t wait to continue this trend through all of the amazing books I have on my upcoming reads list. I hope you can find some inspiration from this list too! 

Happy reading!