What I Read in June 2025
I am so excited to share this month’s book reviews with you because this was one of my favorite months of reading in a while. I read a mix of genres this month — some literary fiction, fantasy, romance, and a non-fiction book about a very niche, work-related topic. I was able to read more with my eyes than my ears in June, thanks to a trip to the beach at the beginning of the month. It’s hard to believe that our summer is already winding down, and this was probably the bulk of my summer romance reading.
Before we dig into this month’s book reviews, tell me— What was your favorite book in June?
June Book Reviews
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Literary Fiction
Pages: 384
Format Read: Kindle (owned)
Remarkably Bright Creatures is a unique literary fiction novel told from three perspectives: Tova, a grieving 70-year-old living on her own; Cameron, a deadbeat 30-something seeking connection with his father; and Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus who lives at the aquarium where Tova works. Van Pelt tenderly explores some pretty heavy themes like grief, abandonment, loss, and aging. While the ending is somewhat predictable, the journey and connection between the main characters are beautifully crafted. Read this if you enjoy stories of unlikely friendships and like just a hint of mystery.
Binding 13 by Chloe Walsh
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: New Adult Romance
Pages: 624
Format Read: Kindle (borrowed from the library)
Was this a great book? No. But I loved it despite its flaws. This new adult sports romance set in Ireland follows two beautifully broken teens. Shannon’s the new girl at Tommen College, seeking refuge from bullies and abuse at home. Johnny is the rugby captain and her knight in shining armor. It took me a long time to get into the book, but by the end, I couldn’t get enough of how possessive Johnny is over Shannon. There are some really great side characters and I’m eager to read more of this series after the cliff hanger. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys the drama of the Magnolia Parks series.
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction
Pages: 382
Format Read: Physical Copy (borrowed from the library)
This is Carley’s best writing yet. I loved Charlie’s redeeming storyline in this more mature romance. Charlie and Alice’s dynamic reminds me so much of my husband and me. He’s charismatic and outgoing, while she tends to be more creative and introspective. They challenge each other while respecting each other’s space and ambition. Not only does this summer romance have some top-tier banter, but there’s a wonderful exploration of Alice’s relationship with her Nan and the Canadian lake district setting that makes me nostalgic for my own bygone summers in Quebec.
The Knight and the Moth by Rachel Gillig
⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Romantasy
Listening Time: 13 hours, 51 minutes
Format Read: Audiobook (free ALC gifted from Libro.fm)
I can't put my finger on exactly what it is about Rachel Gillig's writing that doesn't work for me. All the elements are there, but the story isn't compelling enough. I never felt drawn into the story, the characters, or the setting. The story is quite slow, the magic system is confusing and incomplete, and the gothic atmosphere is vague. I could see this being a more interesting movie or TV show. The veiled seers reminded me of the Bene Gesserit in Dune. If you liked the Shepherd King duology, I know you’ll enjoy this book too.
Total Dreamboat by Katelyn Doyle
⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Romance
Pages: 336
Format Read: Physical Copy (ARC won in publisher Giveaway)
Hope and Felix reluctantly set sail on a luxury Summer cruise, each seeking an escape from their troubles. Hope is running away from a failed relationship and a flailing career, while Felix, a chef and recovering alcoholic, dreads leaving his routine for a family trip. When they lock eyes at check-in, a ten-day fling seems possible, but they have to navigate their obvious differences to avoid a total shipwreck. This was a fun but predictable read featuring two strangers turned lovers turned haters. There’s some cute banter and good emotional depth. My major complaint is that he beginning and end of the story have a distinctly different style and tone. I’m not sure that they mesh well with the bulk of the plot that happens on the cruise.
Sounds Like Love by Ashley Poston
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Romance
Listening Time: 11 hours, 26 minutes
Format Read: Audiobook (borrowed from the Library)
Ashley Poston does it again! I just love the way she writes magical realism. Poston makes Joni and Sasha's love story feel so cozy and realistic, even though she's a songwriter and he's a musician. This is far from the typical celebrity romance. There's so much depth to Joni and Sasha, their parents, their musical connection, their friends, and their family. More than a love story, this book is about grief, healing, and self-discovery. The concept is so unique, I don't want to give away any spoilers. Each chapter starts with lyrics from a famous song, and the writing that follows is beautiful.
What Happens In Amsterdam by Rachel Lynn Solomon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Romance
Pages: 362
Format Read: Physical Copy (borrowed from the Library)
I loved this book, and I'm kicking myself for not picking up Rachel Lynn Solomon's books sooner. I'm immediately going to check out her backlist. This second-chance romance features one of the best meet-cute moments, involving a bicycle. It's an over-the-top rom-com moment that Solomon somehow makes feel believable. Dani and Wouter first met in high school, so it's easy for them to pick things up right where they left off. The main characters are in their 30s and feel like late bloomers. It's refreshing to read about older characters still trying to figure life out. While there's a lot of miscommunication in this book, the third-act breakup seems natural for the marriage of convenience storyline, and I enjoyed the predictable resolution. While the couple struggles to communicate about their past, they're very clear about their wants and needs in the bedroom! There are a few scenes that left me blushing. There's so much culture in this book, and I enjoyed the inclusion of a bit of art history, especially about Van Gogh, one of my favorite artists. I felt immersed in Danish culture, and now I'm craving an old patat spot from my college years.
When Among Crows by Veronica Roth
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Listening Time: 4 hours, 30 minutes
Format Read: Audiobook (borrowed from the Library)
I re-read the 1st book of the Curse Bearers series on audiobook before the 2nd book, To Clutch a Razor, is published in September. I much preferred reading the physical copy. The audiobook performance was fine, but it didn’t bring the story to life the same way I was able to visualize it in my mind.
Here is my original review from 2024: This is probably one of the most well-paced novellas I've read. Roth expertly weaves Polish folklore into a modern-day Chicago setting in this urban fantasy. It might be best to go into this story without having much background information. I'm most surprised at how Roth explores themes of generational curses, Christian imperialism, immigration, displacement, and found family in such a short text. Parts are a bit dark and gory, but even though this is a very niche story, I think the elements will appeal to a wide range of readers.
We’ll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: YA Romance
Listening Time: 6 hours, 3 minutes
Format Read: Audiobook (borrowed from the Library)
This is such a fun and easy series to get sucked into if you love the drama and angst of coming-of-age stories. I always feel so immersed in the coastal summer setting. It’s the perfect match for the innocence of first love. I had to know how the Belly/Fisher boys love triangle played out, even though I still think it’s the most unbelievable dynamic that either brother would stand for it. There’s a lot of depth to their shared grief and trauma that makes this story in particular impossible to stop reading. Love it or hate it, I’m ready for Season 3 on Prime Video and I’m so glad I read this book first. It’s narrated by two of the actors and their performance is incredible!
Shade: The Promise of a Forgotten Natural Resource by Samuel Bloch
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Genre: Non-Fiction
Pages: 336
Format Read: Kindle (free digital review copy from NetGalley)
Reading this book as a freckled, fair-skinned, heat-intolerant City Planner in South Carolina during the week of a heat dome almost felt sardonic. As the Earth gets warmer, it's no secret that heat will continue to be a problem. We know that most urban areas are ill-equipped to deal with the heat, and Bloch calls out urban designers, the government, and global organizations to consider why shade might be the answer. Bloch not only looks at what shade does from a physiological standpoint, but from a social justice perspective. The book delves into how shade can mitigate the effects of oppressive heat and foster healthier communities. I appreciated the history of urban planning and the transformation of life as we know it by the invention of air conditioning. The writing is straightforward and journalistic, and Bloch’s research makes a somewhat niche climate topic easy to read and absorb. Told through personal anecdotes and case studies, Bloch illustrates how innovative urban designs can transform cities into more sustainable and livable environments. From the first chapter, I found myself sharing random facts with family, friends, and colleagues. Bloch’s message is powerful, and I’m looking forward to reading some of his other writing. This book is a call to action, urging policymakers, planners, and citizens alike to reconsider the power of shade in our urban landscapes. As someone deeply invested in city planning, I found Bloch’s vision for a cooler future inspiring.
What’s up next in July
Who’s ready for summer reading?! Here are just a few books publishing in July that I’m looking forward to:
The Art of Vanishing by Morgan Pager 7/1
Overruled by Lana Ferguson 7/1
Let’s Make a Scene by Laura Wood 7/1
The Irresistible Urge to Fall For Your Enemy by Brigette Knightley 7/8
Arcana Academy by Elise Kova 7/22
My NetGalley TBR list is keeping me busy, especially books releasing in late October. I hope you’re ready for some reviews of upcoming books! I’m hoping to read Well Actually by Mazey Eddings first. I’d also like to jump back into my Rereading Project that I abandoned last Fall. I have a few titles I think would be perfect for the coming months, and I need a push to finally finish my personal challenge.
If you made it this far, thanks for reading! You can keep up with my reading journey in real time on Goodreads or The Storygraph!
All the best,
I’ve linked to Bookshop.org where titles are available. If you purchase using the links above, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you. Bookshop.org supports Independent Bookstores! It’s a win-win.
Atmosphere for sure!
I loved art of vanishing! It’s an easy breezy feel good novel. I read it in a day.