10 Books for Moms When You Need a Break
Introduction
Summer reading isn't just for the kids - it's a great way for Moms to unwind and spend some much-needed "me time." Whether lounging by the pool, enjoying a quiet moment in the backyard, or sneaking in some late-night pages, a good book can be the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of busy summer days. Name Bubbles has curated a list of this summer's hottest reads. From steamy romances to thrilling mysteries, these summer books will keep you entertained all season long.
Summer Reads
1. Barely Even Friends by Mae Bennett
Plot Summary: Bellamy Price, a determined contractor aiming to prove herself in a male-dominated field, takes on a job at the mysterious Killington Estate. She unexpectedly meets Oliver Killington, a reclusive heir with a thing for suspenders. Initially obstinate, Oliver soon reveals hidden depths as a common enemy brings them closer, leading to an intense romance.
Themes:
- Steamy romance
- Female empowerment
- Contemporary retelling of Beauty and the Beast
2. The Art of Catching Feelings by Alicia Thompson
Plot Summary: Professional baseball player Chris Kepler and his heckler, Daphne Brink, develop an enemies-to-lovers relationship. After Daphne drives Chris to tears during a game and apologizes via social media, Chris, unaware of her identity, begins an online relationship with her. As their feelings deepen, Daphne struggles to reveal her true identity.
Themes:
- Enemies-to-lovers romance
- Social media and relationships
- Modern romance
3. Not in Love by Ali Hazelwood
Plot Summary: Rue Siebert, a biotech engineer, faces a hostile takeover of her company, Kline, led by Eli Killgore. Despite their professional conflict, they engage in a secret affair. Their relationship is complicated by loyalty and attraction, with the affair having a built-in deadline determined by the outcome of the takeover battle.
Themes:
- Forbidden romance
- Corporate intrigue
- Crime fiction
4. Funny Story by Emily Henry
Plot Summary: Daphne, left by her fiancé Peter for his childhood best friend Petra, starts anew in Waning Bay, Michigan. She becomes roommates with Petra's ex, Miles Nowak. Initially avoiding each other, they form a friendship and a plan involving misleading social media posts. Daphne grapples with falling for Miles despite their past connections.
Themes:
- Unlikely friendships and relationships
- Opposites attract
- Moving on from the past
5. The Seven-Year Slip by Ashley Poston
Plot Summary: Clementine, an overworked book publicist, falls for a man she discovers lives seven years in the past. Living in her late aunt's magical apartment that blends moments in time, Clementine navigates the complexities of a relationship that transcends time.
Themes:
- Time-travel romance
- Healing from loss
- Chasing love
6. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Mass
Plot Summary: Nineteen-year-old huntress Feyre kills a wolf, leading to her capture by Tamlin, a faerie. As Feyre adapts to life in the faerie realm, her feelings for Tamlin grow. She discovers an ancient evil threatening the faerie lands and must find a way to stop it to save Tamlin and his world.
Themes:
- Fantasy romance
- Adventure and faerie lore
- Love and sacrifice
7. Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan
Plot Summary: Engaged Sam encounters her first love, Wyatt, at her family's Long Island beach house. Memories of their past romance resurface, causing Sam to question her current life and relationship. She must decide between her stable life with her fiancé and her undeniable connection with Wyatt.
Themes:
- Summer Romance
- Nostalgia and First Love
- Life choices and personal growth
8. Dune by Frank Herbert
Plot Summary: Paul Atreides, heir to a noble family, is thrust into a journey of destiny on the desert planet Arrakis, where the valuable spice melange is found. A betrayal leads to the destruction of his family, and Paul evolves into the enigmatic Muad'Dib, destined to fulfill ancient prophecies. This story delves deep into the nuanced development of its protagonist.
Themes:
- Science fiction and fantasy
- Political intrigue and power struggles
- Destiny and transformation
9. The Husbands by Holly Gramazio
Plot Summary: Lauren returns home to find herself married to a stranger, Michael. Her attic creates infinite husbands, each leading to a slightly altered life. Lauren must navigate these changes and decide when to stop seeking better options and start living. Set in the coastal Northeast and focusing on forbidden love and the complexities of friendship, this story also explores magical realism in a coastal setting.
Themes:
- Magical realism
- Life choices and identity
- The search for personal fulfillment
10. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
Plot Summary: Pip investigates the closed case of Andie Bell's murder, suspecting Sal Singh, Andie's boyfriend, was wrongfully accused. As Pip uncovers dark secrets, she realizes someone wants the truth hidden, putting her life in danger. Similar to the gripping mystery and social commentary found in Kiley Reid's 'Such a Fun Age,' this story delves deep into themes of justice and perseverance.
Themes:
- Mystery and thriller
- Seeking justice and uncovering truths
- Danger and perseverance
Conclusion:
We hope these books give you the perfect escape and some much-needed relaxation amidst the chaos of summer fun. At Name Bubbles, we understand the importance of finding moments of peace, even during the busiest times. Remember, we're here to help take the stress out of summer camp and back-to-school organization so you can focus on enjoying your summer to the fullest. Happy reading, Moms!
