I’m not entirely sure how we’ve reached the end of July already, but somehow here we are – and I managed to read 7 books, and a grand total of 2,326 pages along the way. There was true crime, feminist non-fiction, memoir, forensic science, historical fiction and bit of literary fiction for good measure. A truly eclectic reading month!
Here’s everything I read this month – with a few thoughts on each:
Broken by Jón Atli Jónasson
A short but chilling Icelandic novel that had me hooked from the start. Sparse, sharp and quietly haunting with multiple layers that slowly came together. It might not be for everyone but it hit the spot for me and I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Tart by Slutty Cheff
Deliciously irreverent and deeply confessional, this anonymous memoir pulls back the curtain on life as a chef and a woman navigating the chaos of kitchens, identity, and desire. One of the most voice-driven books I’ve read in a while – messy, hilarious, honest.
The Art of a Lie by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
Another triumph from one of my favourite historical fiction authors. Set in 1749 London, we follow confectioner Hannah Cole as she discovers the dangerous secrets her murdered husband left behind. Immersive, twisty, and full of deception.
The Five by Hallie Rubenhold
An astonishing, moving piece of historical non-fiction. Rubenhold gives voice and dignity to the five women murdered by Jack the Ripper, re-centring their lives and humanity rather than the man who took them. So powerful – and so overdue.
The Names by Florence Knapp
A novel that sneaks up on you emotionally. Beautiful, understated, and brimming with quiet power. It explores decisions and their consequences with such delicacy with three alternative timelines being told in parallel. One of my five-star reads of the year for good reason.
The New Age of Sexism by Laura Bates
This one shook me. A blistering investigation into the intersection of technology and misogyny – from AI girlfriends to deepfake porn and cyberbrothels. It’s urgent, unflinching, and essential reading. You’ll finish it angry, informed, and ready to shout from the rooftops.
Traces by Patricia Wiltshire
A fascinating memoir from one of the UK’s leading forensic ecologists. If you’ve ever wanted to know how pollen can solve a murder – this one’s for you. Full of science, grit, and quiet brilliance. Wiltshire’s career is mind-blowing.
This was such a rewarding reading month – full of variety, challenge and the kind of books that leave you with thoughts. August is shaping up to be just as chaotic (I’m looking at my TBR stack nervously), but I wouldn’t have it any other way.
What was the best book you read in July?
Books With Megz 