New Books for July 2022

Along with a few Bits that I just couldn't resist

Hi readers,

I hope everyone had some time off last weekend for the 4th of July holiday (US) and spent some time reading a good book. I’ve finished a couple of books in the last few days that I really enjoyed, and July’s new releases promise to have many more great books to choose from.

In the book world, Tuesday is the best day of the week. Most new books make their debut on a Tuesday, and many new books show up on Net Galley on Tuesday. There are so many good books coming in July that I can’t wait to read; maybe some of these will also find their way onto your TBR.

• Reputation by Sarah Vaughn (7-5-22) - From the publisher “The bestselling author of Anatomy of a Scandal—now a hit Netflix series—returns with a new psychological thriller about a politician whose less-than-perfect personal life is thrust into the spotlight when a body is discovered in her home.” I read this as an ARC from Net Galley, and even though the reviews are mixed, I really enjoyed it. It was twisty, thought-provoking, and could have occasionally moved a little quicker, but overall, a good read that satisfied my newfound love of psychological thrillers.

• Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin (7-5-22) - Two of Zevin’s previous books, The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry and Young Jane Young, are high on my list of all-time favorite books I’ve read. Even though I was excited to read her newest one, I was a little cautious as I couldn’t imagine a book about two young adults creating video games being something that would interest me. Boy, I was wrong. It is a book about flawed characters, friendship, intolerance, and understanding. The characters are so well developed; this book was a surprise for a non-gamer like me. Loved it!

• Upgrade by Blake Crouch (7-12-22) - I’m not a science fiction/technothriller reader. I haven’t read this and probably won’t; however, I know Crouch is a favorite author of many readers, and his newest book is drawing rave reviews. Early reviews say this book is fast-paced, action-packed, full of twists, and just another great book by Crouch. Diana Gabaldon says, “Amazingly gripping and totally immersive, with brilliant (near-future) world building and impeccable plot. You don’t so much sympathize with the main character as live inside his skin.”

• The Italian Ballerina by Kristy Cambron (7-12-22) - I’m a sucker for a gorgeous cover, and this one is absolutely stunning. And best of all, I am enjoying this dual timeline WWII historical fiction read. I received this as an ARC, and I’m about halfway through. It’s based on a facet of the war that I hadn’t heard about before, and so far, the writing is excellent, the characters are interesting, and the story keeps me turning the pages. I’ve read one other book from this author, The Paris Dressmaker, and I really enjoyed it too.

• The Bodyguard by Katherine Center (7-19-22) - Center’s books are often described as “just delightful and fun to read,” and this one is no exception. I’ve read a couple of hers in the past and this one continues in the tradition of funny, heartwarming, romantic, silly at times, and leaves the reader with a fun, great read. There is nothing earth-shattering in her books, but that isn’t why I read them. They are a palette cleanser, they brighten my day and leave me feeling happy.

• In the Middle of Hickory Lane by Heather Webber (7-26-22) - I’ve read one of Webber’s previous books, Midnight at the Blackbird Cafe, and was surprised how much I enjoyed it. I hesitate to step outside of my usually genres or to read something that I don’t know if I’ll enjoy. I’m a very fact based, literal person and “magical realism” was kind of scary for me. Could I suspend belief long enough and just go with the flow to enjoy it? After reading Midnight, I went on to read a few other books with magical realism and I’ve really come to enjoy it. I was just able to put this on hold through Libby; I’m looking forward to reading this and continue my journey with magical realism.

I can remember as a kid wanting my parents to buy me one of these every time we stopped somewhere to eat or get gas on our road trips. Most of the time that didn’t happen. Oh, how I wish it had. This article is a look at the interesting history of the postcard.

This gives me a new appreciation for the thousands of Little Free Libraries worldwide and the few local ones where I drop off books.

I enjoyed reading this ode to the dying Chinese buffet. I also enjoy the author’s Substack newsletter about the new and old and how things are changing, not always for the best. You might enjoy this newsletter if you are a nostalgia buff about places and memories from your childhood.

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What’s on your TBR for this summer? Do any of these new books sound interesting to you? Are there any other new releases you are looking forward to? I’d love to hear more about any of these in the comments below.

Have a great week and an even better reading week. Happy reading!!

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