ShortBookandScribes August 2024 Reads

In my last monthly round-up post I lamented the fact that not only had I read fewer books than normal, but also that I had DNFd a few books. Having thought more about it, I think a major reason for my slump was that I had so many July publication review books that I felt completely overwhelmed. It actually sent me in the other direction: I didn’t really feel like picking any of them up, even though some of them were books that I’d been highly anticipating.

The comparative lull in August, combined with a week at the seaside and another week off work (and no school runs), meant that I had a much better month and read eleven books, the most I’ve read in quite a while. I’d love to carry on in the same vein, but once the September routine kicks in I fear that I may slip back to not fitting in as much reading. Time will tell.

The books I read were all 4 or 5 star reads so it’s been a real cracker of a month, and I managed a few non-review books from my TBR pile. Here they all are on the lovely little book rack I picked up in a treasure trove of a vintage shop on holiday (click on the titles to read my reviews):

 

 

 

 

 

Home Truths by Charity Norman

An immensely gripping drama about the effects of a man’s descent into the world of conspiracy theories on his family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time’s Prisoner by Linda Gillard

An unusual bequest and a centuries-old mystery change Jane’s life forever. A great read and an enthralling setting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

After the Fire by Charlotte Rixon

A moving story of a couple whose relationship can never quite get off the ground. Lots of One Day vibes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Day Shelley Woodhouse Woke Up by Laura Pearson

A woman comes round from a coma convinced her husband put her there. The story unfolds beautifully and was a true joy to read.

 

 

 

 

 

 

One Day to Fall in Love by Molly James

Desperate to find love, Rena signs up for a dating app that promises she will find love in 24 hours. What she doesn’t realise is that it’s the same 24 hours over and over. I smiled or laughed all the way through this joyous book.

 

 

 

 

Fledging by Rose Diell (review to come)

An intriguing and thought-provoking story about a woman who lays an egg. This book considers choice, the weight of expectation and motherhood in a thoroughly convincing way.

 

 

 

The Secrets of Flowers by Sally Page

A beautifully layered story about Emma, trying to navigate her grief. She becomes intrigued by who arranged the flowers on the Titanic. A gentle and moving story.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Five by Five by Claire Wilson

This is a gritty story set in a Scottish prison. Kennedy’s job is to monitor the prisoners and the prison officers, but somebody is out to get her. This felt really authentic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

We Are Family by Louise Walters

A character-driven story of Jennifer and Alison, their lifelong friendship and a shock event that threatens it. Warm and uplifting, astute and realistic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Book Swap by Tessa Bickers

A gorgeous story of Erin and James who have a shared past but end up making an unexpected connection through books. A brilliant debut and a total triumph.

 

 

 

Lights Out by Louise Swanson (review to come)

The government shuts down the electricity every night due to a shortage and Grace is scared of the dark. A chilling premise, but a compelling and adept emotional story about feelings, fears and loss of control.

 

Wish me luck with my September reading! 🤞 What was your favourite August read?