A Summer of Stories: The Books That Took Me Everywhere

This summer, I found myself lost in worlds both real and imagined, traveling from the gritty streets of ancient Pompeii to the dreamlike nights of Tokyo. Each book I picked up offered its own escape—whether it was a heartwarming romance, a high-stakes fantasy, or a slow-burn exploration of human nature. Here’s a breakdown of the novels that shaped my summer reading and left a lasting impression.

The Wolf Den Trilogy by Elodie Harper: A Gripping Journey Through Ancient Pompeii

All 3 Books Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Elodie Harper’s The Wolf Den Trilogy transported me straight into the heart of ancient Pompeii, but through a lens often overlooked: the lives of enslaved women. Following Amara, a fiercely determined woman trapped in a brothel, the series weaves together themes of power, survival, and resilience. Each book dives deeper into Amara’s journey, revealing a vivid portrait of both the brutality and beauty of life in Pompeii. If you’re into historical fiction that makes you root for the underdog, this trilogy is a must-read.

Beach Read by Emily Henry: A Romance With Heart and Humor

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

After the intensity of The Wolf Den, I needed something lighter—enter Beach Read by Emily Henry. This story about two authors with writer’s block who challenge each other to swap genres was equal parts charming and thoughtful. It’s a romance, sure, but it also explores deeper themes like grief, creative struggles, and self-discovery. With witty banter and a lot of heart, this book had me giggling and tearing up in equal measure.

Crowns of Nyxia Duology by Carissa Broadbent: A Fantasy World of Power and Intrigue

The Serpent and the Wings of Night Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Ashes & the Star-Cursed King Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

I had high hopes for Carissa Broadbent’s second book in the Crowns of Nyxia duology after absolutely loving the first book. The world-building was phenomenal, the characters were fierce, and the plot twists kept me on the edge of my seat. I was completely absorbed in this magical, politically charged world. But when I got to the second book, it felt like something shifted. The pacing slowed, and I struggled to stay engaged with the story. While the stakes were high, I found myself longing for the intensity and momentum of the first book.

After Dark by Haruki Murakami: A Dreamlike Stroll Through Tokyo

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

I’ve always been fascinated by Haruki Murakami’s work, and After Dark is no exception. Set over the course of one night, the novel follows various characters as their lives intersect in strange and mysterious ways. It’s a short, atmospheric read that feels like a dream, blending the ordinary with the surreal. If you enjoy books that make you question reality, this one’s for you.

The Shepherd King Duology by Rachel Gillig: A Dark and Lyrical Fantasy

Both Books Rated: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Finally, I ended my summer with The Shepherd King duology (One Dark Window and Two Twisted Crowns) by Rachel Gillig. This series pulled me in with its dark magic and lyrical prose. The world Gillig creates is full of ancient secrets, dangerous power, and a protagonist grappling with her own identity. The writing is almost poetic, with haunting imagery that lingered in my mind long after I finished the books. It’s not a light read, but if you’re in the mood for something dark and immersive, this series is worth diving into.