August Wrap Up | Books and Baking

August was a mixed reading month for me. I’ve spent over half of August in a gigantic reading slump but I did surprisingly manage to read 6 books! I found the transition from physical books to my kindle to be a nice change and I switched up the genres I have been reading. I’ve read a fantasy, some thrillers and a couple of poetry collections which have all been 4 or 5 star reads. The only exception was The Perfect Widow by A. M. Castle which I just could not get into and I DNF.

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Below are a list of the books I read in August with a little summary of my thoughts on them!

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Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling

Rating – ★★★★★

I’m slowly but surely making my way through the Harry Potter series and this has to be my favourite one yet! It is my favourite film out of the series so I am glad that the book also lived up to my expectations. I think that the character development for the infamous trio has stood out more so in this book and I can’t wait to read the next one. I didn’t quite realise just how big the next few books in the series are though, so hopefully I’ll finish Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire in September!

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Sadie by Courtney Summers

Rating – ★★★★

I absolutely loved this book for a number of reasons. The top two being the stutter representation and the use of mixed media in terms of the podcast. I have never read a book with that kind of representation and it definitely added to Sadie’s character. She is strong mentally, emotionally and physically, and her drive is conveyed really well. It is a raw and honest book that covers some dark topics. Please read trigger warnings before picking this one up. It was a slow burner but the ending was crazy!

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The Child Who Never Was by Jane Renshaw

Rating – ★★★★

This twisty psychological thriller is set around identical mirror twins Sarah and Evie who are both architects in their small town. Sarah is definitely one of the most unreliable narrators I have read but I think that it adds to the authenticity of the narrative! It kept me on the edge of my seat and I thoroughly enjoyed how the narrative played out. I’ve got a full review here!

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Can You See Me? by Lynne Lee

Rating – ★★★★

This psychological thriller was very interesting. It is told from the point of view of Julia, a woman dealing with the loss of her husband David, and the antagonist who compares themselves to moths. I did find that part quite strange in the beginning but I love how all of the pieces fall into place. Lynne Lee really puts her own spin on the traditional ‘domestic thriller’, and it had me hooked, especially during the last third!

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Crown Noble by Bianca Phipps

Rating – ★★★★

I loved Crown Noble which was the first poetry collection that I picked up this month! It explores family dynamics, relationships, and the impacts of these things on our lives. It was really powerful and I would definitely recommend. There are some trigger warnings so please check them out before reading. Thank you to Net Galley who provided me with this ARC for my honest opinion. I have a full review up on my blog, you can find it here!

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Dear Girl by Aija Mayrock

Rating – ★★★★

This poetry collection was powerful, moving and I listened to it via audiobook which was narrated by the poet herself. It really added to the intimate nature of the poetry. I found the collection to be empowering and many were relatable and inspiring for women. I identified with many of the poems and appreciated how honest the poet is. The writing is strong, and the cover is also pretty too! I love this quote from Dear Girl:

“When you are knocked down, remember, it’s not what made you fall, it’s what makes you get back up”

I’ve got some good books lined up for September and I’m hoping to read more physical books this month! How has your reading month gone? I would love to hear your favourite read of the month.