What I Read Last Month (Find Out Which Are Worth Adding to Your TBR)
Welcome to the first edition of Reading & Roadtrips!
This newsletter is for women who love to travel—and never hit the road without a book in hand.
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To kick things off, I’m sharing a recap of my May reads. I managed to get through 8 books this month (okay, a few were audiobooks—but those count, right?). Let’s just say my book budget took a hit in May!
Starting next week, you can expect our regular lineup: book recommendations, destination inspiration, RV hacks, and a peek at what’s in my Amazon cart. Let’s get started:
King of Envy by Ana Huang
My first book of the month was the fourth book in Ana Huang’s steamy Kings of Sin series, King of Envy brings another slow-burn romance with high heat and emotional tension.
I had been really looking forward to this one, but it ended up being my least favorite of the series. The chemistry between the couple just didn’t hit as strongly for me as the previous books in the series. Also, I listened to the audiobook—and the male main character communicates through sign language, which was portrayed with an echoey voice effect. It was a creative choice but honestly felt a bit off. Still, if you're reading the full series, it's worth picking up to stay in the loop! I would recommend grabbing the free Kindle version here.
Predictable Profits by Stu Mclaren
This month’s nonfiction pick came from a marketing conference I attended back in February. Predictable Profits is a practical guide to building and scaling a membership-based business, written by one of the top experts in the space.
I make it a goal to read at least one business or personal development book each month, and this one was packed with value. Nonfiction can sometimes feel heavy, but this book had short, engaging chapters and tons of actionable takeaways—I did a lot of highlighting! If you’ve ever thought about launching a membership, this is a must-read.
The Tenant by Frieda Mcfaden
In this chilling psychological thriller, a young couple decides to rent out a room in their apartment to help make ends meet—but their new tenant brings more than just luggage. Secrets unravel, tensions rise, and soon they find themselves caught in a deadly game where nothing is as it seems… and no one is safe.
This was another new release from one of my favorite thriller authors, and it didn’t disappoint. Freida’s twisty plots always keep me on my toes, and I love when I can’t predict the ending. The Tenant had me second-guessing everyone, and the final reveal completely surprised me—just how I like my thrillers! Best of all it’s free for those that a kindle unlimited subscription.
Parents Weekend by Alex Finlay
During what’s supposed to be a celebratory weekend at a prestigious college, a group of parents finds themselves caught in a terrifying turn of events when a violent crime rocks the campus. As secrets unravel and tensions rise, the line between truth and lies blurs, forcing each character to question how well they really know their children, or themselves.
This one kept me on edge! A fast-paced thriller that’s hard to describe without giving away too much (seriously—no spoilers here!). It had all the intensity I’ve come to expect from Alex Finlay and even included a small connection to one of his earlier books, which was a fun surprise. If you enjoy twisty stories where no one is quite who they seem, this one’s worth the read.
The Influencer by Adriane Leigh
A social media star’s picture-perfect life begins to unravel as secrets from her past resurface in this suspenseful thriller. This is the first in a three-book series.
I found this one on Instagram and gave it a shot since it’s free on Kindle Unlimited. It started out a bit slow, but it definitely picked up by the end and left me curious enough to check out book two. A solid start to the series!
The Last Road Trip by Jennifer Klepper
When four former sorority sisters reunite decades later to finally complete the cross-country road trip they never finished in college, they’re each carrying the weight of life’s challenges, which include grief, divorce, illness, and motherhood. What begins as a nostalgic getaway turns into a powerful journey of healing, rediscovery, and the enduring strength of female friendship.
This was such a heartfelt read. I loved the way it explored real-life struggles that many of us face and how the women leaned on each other to get through it all. It reminded me how important connection is, no matter how much time has passed. Bonus: it’s free with Kindle Unlimited, so definitely worth grabbing!
Serial Killer Support Group by Saratoga Schafer
A darkly humorous and twisted thriller that follows a secret support group for serial killers. When one of them breaks the rules and threatens to expose them all, chaos ensues. With complicated characters and unexpected turns this book explores the bizarre bonds between the unlikeliest of characters.
This was a total impulse pick during a trip to Barnes & Noble with my daughter—and honestly, how could I resist a title like that? You can’t go wrong with serial killers, right? It was dark, clever, and didn’t disappoint. With complicated characters and unexpected turns this book was a great, quick read.
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Another charming story from Emily Henry, this novel follows two authors with competing career goals who unexpectedly find connection—and maybe love—amidst their rivalry. With her signature mix of heart, humor, and emotional depth, Emily delivers another feel-good romance.
It seems like this was the month of new releases! Great Big Beautiful Life was a sweet, easy read—exactly what I’ve come to expect from Emily Henry. While I enjoyed it, the main characters and their love story felt a bit familiar to her previous books. That said, it had an interesting subplot woven into the romance, low spice, and plenty of heart. I’d definitely recommend it if you’re looking for something warm and uplifting.
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