The unofficial start of summer has treated me so well! Fangirl-wise, I read 16 books and binge-watched Netflix shows and movies. IRL-wise, with school over for the year, I’ve had more time to relax, catch up with friends, exercise, GO TO THE BEACH, and start my summer job. At the time of this post’s publication, I am currently attending the most exciting event of May, Book Expo! I’m really excited for my June content overall, but especially because I’ll be doing wrap-ups for each day of the convention.
Tell Me No Lies by Adele Griffin | 4/5 Stars
This was my first book by Adele Griffin. I really enjoyed her writing style and this book’s atmospheric setting.
Red, White and Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston |5/5 Stars
Like everyone and their mother, I freaking loved RW&RB. It’s definitely my all-time favorite new adult book and a 2019 favorite read.
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid | 4/5 Stars
Although I still enjoyed this book, unlike everyone and their mother, I didn’t necessarily love Daisy Jones and the Six.
The Princess and the Fangirl by Ashley Poston| 4.25/5 Stars
It was so much fun jumping back into the Once Upon a Con series and I’m really looking forward to the third installment that will be based on Beauty and the Beast.
The Off-Campus Series (The Deal, The Mistake, The Score & The Goal) by Elle Kennedy | 4.5/5 Stars
I have a full series review coming for these books, but for right now, I’ll share that my favorite was The Goal (another 2019 favorite read)
Field Notes on Love by Jennifer E. Smith | 4/5 Stars
This book is tempting me to book a cross-country train trip.
The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker | 4.5/5
I loved jumping into the new adult genre this month, including The Simple Wild. Also catch me planning a trip to the Alaskan wilderness.
The Anatomical Shape of a Heart by Jenn Bennett | 4.5/5 Stars
Once again, Jenn Bennett has been solidified as one of my favorite YA contemporary authors.
If I’m Being Honest by Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegemund-Broka | 5/5 Stars
I loved If I’m Being Honest even more than Always Never Yours, and I’m more than ready for more books by this author duo
Girls on the Verge by Sharon Biggs Waller | 4.5/5 Stars
Girls on the Verge had been on my TBR for a few months, but after the infuriating abortion laws passed in Alabama, I was very inspired to pick it up.
Night Music by Jenn Marie Thorne | 4.5/5 Stars
Night Music had such an incredible writing style- it reminded me so much of a Morgan Matson book- but in Jenn Marie Thorne’s own way!
Her Royal Highness by Rachel Hawkins | 4/5 Stars
Her Royal Highness was my first Book Expo train ride read. This book is perfect for a 3 to 4 hour binge read. I enjoyed it more than Prince Charming. I definitely see potential for a third installment.
Stargazing by Jen Wang (ARC) | 4.5/5 Stars
I ate up this adorable graphic novel from the author of my favorite graphic novel, aka Jen Wang’s The Princess and the Dressmaker.
The Bold Type S3 (Freeform)- Although I’ve been watching The Bold Type every Tuesday, I haven’t been the biggest fan of this season. I love how this show addresses current and important issues, but the show has felt a bit more cheesy this season. I’m definitely the most invested in Sutton and Richard’s storyline.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine S6 (NBC)- After loving the two-episode season finale, I’m so sad that Season 6 is over, but obviously so happy that this show will be returning for a seventh season. Season 6 wasn’t my absolute favorite season, but it included some of my all-time favorite episodes.
Netflix definitely took over my watching this month:
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile– Loved Zac Efron and Lilly Collins, but I was expecting more action or suspense.
QB1 S2- As much as I love college football, I enjoyed this show’s inside glimpse at high school quarterbacks and college recruitment. Also not-so patiently waiting for the next season of Last Chance U and when I give into my need for a Friday Night Lights rewatch.
Knock Down the House– I’m not really a politics person, but this documentary about Alexandria Ocasio-Cortex and three other women’s 2018 primary campaigns was so interesting.
Workin’ Moms S1- I’ve been in the mood for shorter TV shows lately, and Workin’ Moms completely delivered in that department and in the humor! Netflix, I know there are two more seasons of this show, please give them to us US-watchers NOW.
Wine Country– There were a few laugh-out-loud moments for me in this comedy starring Amy Poehler and other comedy leading ladies, but I wasn’t completely in love with this one.
Jailbirds S1- I am a fan of both documentaries and reality TV, and Jailbirds was the perfect combination of the two. While it had a very much reality TV spin between its drama and editing style, this show provides a very interesting and inside look at female detention centers.
Dead to Me S1- This month was all about binge-watching seasons of Netflix shows over one week, which included Dead to Me. Dead to Me comes off as Netflix’s lighter and almost satirical take on Big Little Lies. It was a fun, yet predictable binge-watch and I think the season could have ended differently to build more suspense.
Girls Incarcerated S1- While there are some reality TV elements, Girls Incarcerated takes a more documentary-based and emotional look at juvenile detention centers in the US. I really enjoyed this one and happily found out that S2 will premiere on June 21.
Reviews
NEW ADULT FAVORITE: Red, White and Royal Blue Review
CALLING ALL CONVENTION LOVERS: The Princess and the Fangirl Review
ANOTHER SJM FAVE: Catwoman: Soulstealer Review
REVISITING PARIS: Anna and the French Kiss Series Reread
WITCHLANDS RETURN: Bloodwitch Review
LOVE ON A TRAIN: Field Notes on Love Review
Bookish Fun
I had so much fun writing all of these posts!
BOOKS FOR THE BEACH & BACKYARD: Summer 2019 Anticipated Releases
Book Bait: Things That Make Me Pick Up Books
EATING ALL THE CONTEMPORARY: May 2019 TBR
Top Five Wednesday: Bookish Things I’ve Changed My Mind About
What did you read and watch in May? Did you attend any bookish events? Share in the comments!
AHH so glad you enjoyed Red, White & Royal Blue!! I’m going to read it in June/July and I’m so hyped to (finally) start reading! Every positive review makes me even more sure that I’ll adore it. I absolutely need to read Jenn Bennett soonish — I’ve heard great things about her books (especially when it comes to fluff and banter!) and I’m ready for my heart to feel sugary sweet with lovey dovey emotions. Hope you have a great month of June! c:
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Thank you! I hope you love RWRB. I love all of Jenn Bennett’s books, but I particularly hold Starry Eyes and Serious Moonlight close to my heart!
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