In my book reflections July 2024, I review four amazing books that have deeply touched my heart and inspired a lot of thinking and soul searching. July was my birthday month and spent more time outside, where I enjoyed outdoor activities, watched football, studied languages, socialized with friends, and focused on recovering from my injured ankle.
But winter days will be here soon, there may be more opportunities to indulge in reading.
I hope to inspire you with my book reviews to read one or two of these gems. Out of the bunch, “A Novel Love Story” stole my heart as the ultimate favorite.
A NOVEL LOVE STORY by Ashley Poston
(published: June 25, 2024; Publisher: Berkley; 384 pages, Paperback)
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: July 13, 2024)
Ashley Poston – Please can we be friends?
Oh my gosh, you have to read “A Novel Love Story” by Ashley Poston!
This is her latest release and honestly: I couldn’t wait for it! Once I was done with my book reflections June 2024, I got my hands on a copy of “A Novel Love Story”
When I finished it, I felt so much appreciation for this amazing author. She’s truly talented gifted. This is exactly my type of genre. Love stories with a lot of magic!!!
Needless to say, I’m absolutely obsessed. You know that feeling when you find a book that’s so magical and immersive, you never want it to end? That’s exactly what this story is like. The author of “The Dead Romantics” and “The Seven Year Slip” knows how to pull you in and make you believe in the power of stories and the possibility of a little magic in everyday life.
The novel town of your favorite book series
So, the plot is just so entertaining. It follows Eileen Merriweather, a literature professor who’s been through the wringer—oh gosh, my heart felt for her so much: she was left at the altar, and let’s just say, she’s sworn off real-life romance. I mean who wouldn’t after such a deep heartbreak, right!
She finds solace in books, especially those with guaranteed happy endings. She’s the kind of character who feels like a best friend—smart, witty, and a little bit broken, but in a way that makes you root for her all the more.
Eileen is determined to get to her annual book club retreat this year, desperate for some good company, cheap wine, and those grand romantic gestures she only seems to find in fiction. But—here it comes—her car breaks down on the way, and she ends up stranded in this quaint little town that feels oddly familiar, like it’s straight out of a novel.
And here’s where it gets really interesting: the town is literally out of a novel. She’s somehow stumbled into Eloraton, the setting of her favorite romance series. Can you imagine?! It’s the kind of town where everything is a little too perfect—the candy store’s honey taffy is just the right amount of sweet, the local bar’s burgers are always slightly burnt, and the rain always seems to fall in the afternoon. It’s like stepping into a dream, or more accurately, into someone else’s story. But how could this be even possible?!
Eileen quickly realizes that the town is frozen in time, trapped in the unfinished manuscript of its late author, leaving Eileen and so many fans heartbroken.
But there’s always a reason why things happen, right? She believes it’s up to her to help Eloraton reach its happy ending. Why else would she be stuck in a fiction story?
I loved how Poston plays with the concept of an unfinished story and what it means to be caught in the middle of someone else’s narrative only to realize that both lives are so interconencted—there’s something so clever and magical about it.
But of course, as always there’s a twist!
Enter the grumpy, yet incredibly alluring bookstore owner with mint-green eyes and a penchant for great literature. He’s the one character who doesn’t seem to fit the mold of the perfect, storybook town. How did he even end up there? He was never mentioned in any of the books, but maybe in the unfinished manuscript…
He’s mysterious, a little infuriating, and, naturally, irresistible. And here’s the thing: he doesn’t want Eileen finishing the story. The chemistry between them is electric, filled with tension and banter that makes you want to scream, “Just kiss already!”
From unfinished to finished, from unwritten to written
As Eileen tries to navigate this strange, magical world, she begins to realize that the town’s happy ending might be tied to her own. It’s a journey of self-discovery, of healing, and of finding love in the most unexpected places. The way Poston blends the magical with the real is just stunning. I adore her!!!
The town of Eloraton feels like a character in its own right—alive, whimsical, and deeply nostalgic, like the best parts of every romantic book you’ve ever read.
Ashley Poston’s writing is so vivid and enchanting. I devour her books.
She has this incredible ability to make every scene feel like it’s dripping with magic, even when it’s just a simple conversation or a walk through town. And the way she captures the emotions—oh, the emotions!—it’s like she’s reaching into your chest and giving your heart a little squeeze. She’s a master narrator!
Honestly, “A Novel Love Story” is a must-read.
It’s for anyone who’s ever lost themselves in a book, anyone who believes in second chances, and anyone who knows that sometimes, the best stories are the ones that surprise us.
You’re going to fall in love with Eileen, with Eloraton, and with that stubborn, grumpy bookseller who might just be the key to everything. Trust me, you’ll be thinking about this book long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s pure, bookish magic!
I can’t wait for Poston’s next novel! Make it happen soon!!!
BONJOUR AGNETA by Emma Hamberg
(published in Germany: May 15, 2024; Publisher: dtv; 416 pages, Paperback; Translator: Wibke Kuhn; first published in Sweden: March 2021, Publisher Piratförlaget; Hardcover 314 pages)
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
(finished book: July 26, 2024)
I recently received “Bonjour Agneta” (originally titled Je m’appelle Agneta in Sweden) by Emma Hamberg as a birthday gift from a friend (thank you, Colena), and I have to say, it was a delightful surprise. This book wasn’t something I would have picked up on my own, but it turned out to be a truly engaging and heartwarming read. Hamberg’s storytelling draws you in with its charm and warmth, making it a memorable journey of self-discovery and transformation.
So, the story centers around Agneta, who’s 49 and living a pretty mundane life in Sweden. Her kids have flown the coop, and they only call when they need cash. Her husband, Magnus, is off in his own world, obsessed with sports and bird photography, and barely pays attention to Agneta. It’s like she’s just going through the motions, feeling completely invisible and unappreciated.
Then, one day, she stumbles across this ad in the newspaper. It’s written in clumsy Swedish, offering a job in France as an au pair for a “Swedish-speaking boy.” Now, Agneta doesn’t speak a word of French, but something about the ad just calls to her. Maybe it’s the idea of escaping her dull routine, or maybe she’s just desperate for a change. She always wanted to go to the Sout of France. Whatever it is, she decides to go for it and packs up for this new adventure.
When she arrives in this quaint little French village, though, she’s in for a shock. The “boy” she’s supposed to care for is actually an 80-something-year-old man named Einar who has dementia. Can you imagine? At first, I thought, “Oh no, what’s she gotten herself into?” and “Where’s the love story here?!” But as the story unfolds, you see how this unexpected situation leads to something really beautiful.
Agneta ends up living in this old monastery where Einar also lives, and it’s here that her whole life starts to change. She forms a bond with Einar that’s just so touching. It’s like he becomes the key to her rediscovering herself. And then there’s Vincent, the guy who placed the ad. He’s this quirky, lovable Frenchman who owns a bar nearby. Even though Agneta doesn’t speak French, she and Vincent connect in a way that’s really special. The villagers are warm and welcoming, and they help Agneta find joy and purpose again.
A Personal Reflection:
I have to be honest, while I was reading Bonjour Agneta, I had mixed feelings. It’s not the kind of book I usually pick up, and since I read the German edition, it felt a bit different from my usual reads. At times, the plot seemed to drag a little, and I found myself wondering if I really liked it. But as I kept reading, something shifted. The story’s charm slowly grew on me, and by the end, I realized I actually did enjoy it. Now, I’m really curious to see what happens next in the sequel, which I heard is coming out in Germany in September 2024.
Why You Should Read It:
This book is all about second chances and finding yourself when you least expect it. I had to laugh a lot, so that is always a plus. Agneta’s journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to shake things up, take a risk, and discover new joys in life. The characters are so endearing, and the setting is just magical. I think we’ll all find something to relate to in Agneta’s story—whether it’s her courage to start over or the way she learns to embrace the unexpected.
So, if you’re looking for something heartwarming and a little different from our usual picks, give Bonjour Agneta a try. It might just surprise you like it did me. I can’t wait to hear what you all think!
International Success:
Originally published in Sweden, Bonjour Agneta has found a wide audience across Europe. The novel has been translated into several languages, including German, Dutch, Finnish, Norwegian, and Danish, allowing readers from different cultures to share in Agneta’s journey of renewal and discovery. and who knows: maybe it will be published in English soon.
YOURS TRULY by Abby Jimenez
(first published: April 11, 2023; Publisher: Piatkus; 398 pages, Paperback; Goodreads Choice Award for Romance 2023; Book of the Month Book of the Year Award 2023)
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4.8/5)
(finished book: July 22, 2024)
My loves, this one you have to read if you are a lover of romance novels and chances are if you’re reading this, you are! So grab yourself a copy—fast!—because “Yours Truly” by Abby Jimenez is a masterpiece! Just like “Just For The Summer”
I’m completely in love. Abby Jimenez has done it again—she’s crafted a story that’s equal parts heartwarming, hilarious, and deeply emotional. If you’re an admirer of her previous work (Part of Your World series: “Part Of Your World” and “Just For The Summer”, you’re in for such a treat, because this book is like a warm hug from an old friend. And if you’re new to her writing, prepare to become obsessed in the best way possible!
First, a little context—“Yours Truly” is the second book in Abby Jimenez’s “Part of Your World” trilogy. And let me tell you, it stands beautifully on its own, but it also brings in these wonderful little connections to the first book that will make you smile if you’ve been following the series. Jimenez is so good at creating a world where her characters feel like real people, and I love how she weaves them into each other’s stories. It makes everything feel so much more alive and connected.
Briana and Jacob – A fake relationship turns into love
Briana and her Heart Walls
Now, let me tell you about the plot. “Yours Truly” follows Dr. Briana Ortiz, an ER physician who’s been having a rough go of it. Her brother is in desperate need of a kidney transplant, her divorce is almost final, and she’s feeling pretty burned out on the idea of love and romance. Briana is the kind of character you instantly connect with—she’s strong, fiercely independent, but also vulnerable in a way that’s so relatable. She’s been through a lot, and she’s built up these walls to protect herself, but you can’t help but root for her to find happiness.
Briana is a force to be reckoned with. She’s tough, capable, and always the one others lean on in a crisis. But beneath that strong exterior, she’s hurting. Her past has left her with deep emotional scars, and her recent heartbreak has only added to her fears of letting anyone get too close. She’s the kind of person who would rather focus on fixing everyone else’s problems than confront her own. This makes her both admirable and deeply human—because who among us hasn’t tried to hide our pain behind a brave face? Like honestly, don’t we do it all the time?!
Jacob, the romantic hero who softens Briana’s walls
Enter Dr. Jacob Maddox, the new guy at the hospital who, at first, seems like just another arrogant doctor. But here’s the twist—Jacob is nothing like Briana expects. He’s actually kind, thoughtful, and, despite his outwardly confident appearance, dealing with his own struggles with anxiety and self-doubt. What’s so refreshing about Jacob is that he’s not your typical romantic hero—he’s quiet, introspective, and genuinely good-hearted. And he’s dealing with real, honest-to-goodness challenges that make him so human and endearing.
Jacob is one of the most refreshing romantic heroes I’ve come across in a long time. I adore this character!
He’s not your typical alpha male; instead, he’s gentle, introspective, and deeply empathetic. He’s also grappling with his own vulnerabilities, particularly around his anxiety, which is portrayed with such honesty and care by Jimenez.
Jacob’s character is incredibly endearing. He’s the kind of person who’s always looking out for others, sometimes to his own detriment. His anxiety is a central part of who he is, but it doesn’t define him. Instead, it makes him more relatable and real. He’s sensitive, perceptive, and incredibly patient—especially when it comes to Briana. He sees through her defenses and recognizes the pain she’s carrying, and rather than being intimidated by her strength, he admires it. Jacob’s journey throughout the novel is about learning to embrace his own worth and finding the courage to fight for what he wants, even when it’s scary.
The Letters
The story takes off when Briana receives an unexpected letter from Jacob, an apology that turns into a heartfelt correspondence between the two. This is where Jimenez’s talent really shines—the way she develops their relationship through letters is just so beautiful and intimate. You get to see them slowly open up to each other, sharing their fears, hopes, and dreams. It’s a slow-burn romance that builds in such a satisfying way. The letters are full of warmth, humor, and genuine connection, and you can feel the bond between Briana and Jacob deepening with each exchange.
As they grow closer, Briana finds herself drawn to Jacob in ways she never expected. He’s the first person in a long time who makes her feel seen and understood. And for Jacob, Briana becomes a source of comfort and stability in a world that often feels overwhelming. Their chemistry is off the charts, but what really makes their relationship special is the emotional depth. It’s not just about the physical attraction—though that’s definitely there—it’s about two people who are deeply lonely finding solace and love in each other.
Cameos and the complexities of love and healing
Jimenez also brings in some fantastic secondary characters, including cameos from her previous books that longtime fans will adore. These moments feel like little Easter eggs, and they add to the richness of the world she’s created. It’s like catching up with old friends, and it makes the story feel even more layered and interconnected.
What I love most about “Yours Truly” is how it tackles serious issues with such sensitivity and grace. From mental health and family dynamics to the complexities of love and healing, Jimenez doesn’t shy away from the tough stuff. But she does it in a way that’s always hopeful and uplifting. The humor, the warmth, the way she balances light and dark—it’s just masterful.
And can we talk about how this book will make you feel? I laughed, I cried, I swooned—sometimes all in the same chapter! It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, but in the best possible way. Jimenez has this incredible gift for writing scenes that are both laugh-out-loud funny and deeply poignant. Her dialogue is snappy and real, and her characters are so fully realized that you can’t help but care about them.
In short, “Yours Truly” is an absolute gem. It’s a love story that feels both fresh and timeless, with characters who will steal your heart and a plot that keeps you turning the pages late into the night. Abby Jimenez is a true talent, and this book is a perfect example of why she’s such a beloved author. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to her work, you’re going to fall head over heels for Briana, Jacob, and the world of “Yours Truly.” Do yourself a favor and pick up this book—you won’t regret it!
PEOPLE WE MEET ON VACATION by Emily Henry
(first published: May 11, 2021; Publisher: Berkley; 364 pages, Paperback; Goodreads Choice Award for Romance 2021; Book of the Month Book of the Year Award 2021)
My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: July 30, 2024)
You know when you find a book that just clicks with you? That’s exactly what happened when I picked up Emily Henry’s “People We Meet on Vacation” (or “You and Me on Vacation” in the UK). After falling in love with her previous work, I wasn’t sure if she could top it, but this book quickly became my second favorite of hers. It’s everything I didn’t know I needed—funny, heartfelt, and so full of life.
“Happy Place” is still my number one, followed by “People We Meet On Vacation”, “Book Lovers”, and “Beach Read”. (I still have to read “Funny Story”)
Poppy and Alex: When Friends become Lovers after Years
The story revolves around Poppy and Alex, and honestly, I have loved those two characters a lot, a lot. Poppy is this ball of energy and curiosity, the kind of person who makes every moment feel like an adventure. She’s a travel writer, which suits her perfectly because she’s always searching for something new—whether it’s a place, an experience, or a feeling.
What I love most about Poppy is that while she seems so confident and carefree, underneath it all, she’s dealing with her own insecurities and questions about what she really wants out of life. She’s this beautifully layered character who’s not just about having fun but also about figuring out who she is and what truly makes her happy.
Then there’s Alex, who is the exact opposite of Poppy in so many ways. He’s calm, steady, and a bit of a homebody—a teacher who likes order and routine. But that’s what makes their friendship so incredible. Alex is like the anchor to Poppy’s whirlwind, and their connection feels so genuine and deep.
They’ve been taking these summer trips together for years, and the way their relationship evolves is just so satisfying to watch. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and I want to shake them at times to finally admit that they love each other, but then on the other hand it’s the slow burn of their unspoken feelings that really hooked me. You can feel the tension and the love, and it’s just so well done. Emily Henry done!
Between the Past and the Present
What’s really special about this novel is how it explores the complexities of love and friendship. It’s not just about whether they’ll end up together, but about how they navigate their own personal growth and what they mean to each other, the risks that they take or not.
What I love and adds to the layers is that the story jumps between past and present, and with each chapter, you see how much they’ve been through together and how much they truly care for one another. It’s so obvious that they love each other, but sometimes it takes time to realize that.
Poppy, in particular, goes through such a meaningful journey. She starts off as this free spirit who’s always on the move, but over time, you see her really grappling with what she’s looking for. She’s fun and adventurous, sure, but she’s also searching for something deeper—something that gives her life more meaning. Watching her peel back those layers, confront her fears, and figure out what she truly wants was such a rewarding experience. And by the end, I just felt so connected to her.
In short, “People We Meet on Vacation” is a book that will make you laugh, cry, and maybe even look at your own relationships a little differently. It’s one of those stories that sticks with you because it’s not just about the destination, but the journey—and the people you meet along the way. If you’re looking for a read that’s full of heart and soul, you have to pick this one up. Emily Henry has truly outdone herself, I can’t wait to read “Funny Story”.
Poppy’s Self-Growth Journey
Let’s go a little bit deeper into the character’s transformation.
Poppy’s journey in “People We Meet on Vacation” is as much about self-discovery as it is about her relationship with Alex. When we, as readers, first meet Poppy, she’s this vibrant, adventurous woman who seems to have it all figured out. Her career as a travel writer allows her to indulge in her love for new experiences, and she’s constantly on the move, chasing the next destination, the next thrill. To the outside world, Poppy is living the dream—her life looks like one big, exciting adventure.
But as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that Poppy’s relentless pursuit of new experiences is, in part, a way to avoid confronting the parts of herself that feel unsettled and incomplete. Beneath her confident exterior, Poppy is grappling with a deeper sense of restlessness. There’s an undercurrent of dissatisfaction that she can’t quite put her finger on, and it’s this inner turmoil that drives much of her character’s development.
One of the most significant aspects of Poppy’s transformation is her gradual realization that happiness isn’t just about external experiences—exotic trips, thrilling adventures, or even the perfect job. She starts to understand that true happiness comes from within, from being at peace with who you are and what you want out of life. This realization is a slow and sometimes painful process for Poppy, as she has to confront her own fears and insecurities head-on.
A pivotal moment in her transformation occurs when Poppy begins to question what she’s really searching for. She’s spent so much of her life trying to escape the ordinary, thinking that constant movement and excitement are the keys to fulfillment. However, as she spends more time reflecting on her relationship with Alex—someone who represents stability, comfort, and home—Poppy starts to see that maybe what she’s been running from is exactly what she needs.
Vulneribility is the New Sexy
Throughout the novel, Poppy also learns to embrace vulnerability. For so long, she’s hidden behind her bubbly personality and adventurous spirit, using them as a shield against the parts of herself that feel scared, lonely, or unsure. But as her feelings for Alex become more undeniable, Poppy realizes that in order to be truly happy, she has to let go of that shield and allow herself to be seen, flaws and all. This shift in her character is both powerful and relatable—Poppy’s willingness to confront her own emotions and open up to the possibility of love is a major turning point in the story.
Finding where one belongs
By the end of the novel, Poppy’s transformation is complete. She’s still the fun, lively person she always was, but there’s a new depth to her—a sense of peace and understanding about what really matters. She learns that while adventure and excitement are wonderful, they’re even better when shared with someone who truly understands and loves you. Poppy’s journey is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the greatest adventure is finding where you belong, and that place might just be with the person who’s been by your side all along.
This transformation makes Poppy an incredibly compelling character. She’s not perfect—she’s flawed, messy, and sometimes scared—but that’s what makes her so real and relatable. Her growth throughout the novel is a testament to Emily Henry’s skill in creating characters who feel like real people, going through real challenges, and coming out stronger on the other side.
Now let’s get to one of my favorite male characters Henry has created so far:
Alex. Oh, Alex.
If there’s one character who quietly sneaks up on you and tugs at your heartstrings in “People We Meet on Vacation,” it’s him. From the very beginning, Alex is the kind of guy who seems to have it all together—calm, collected, and almost the opposite of Poppy’s whirlwind energy. But as the story unfolds, you start to realize that there’s so much more to him than what meets the eye.
When we first meet Alex, he’s the quintessential good guy. A high school teacher who values routine and structure, Alex is the kind of person who prefers order and predictability. He’s thoughtful, introspective, and maybe even a little guarded. Compared to Poppy’s adventurous spirit, Alex comes across as more reserved, someone who finds comfort in the familiar rather than in the unknown.
But what’s so beautiful about Alex is that his steadiness isn’t a sign of dullness—far from it. Alex is deeply caring, loyal to a fault, and quietly passionate about the people he loves. He might not be the type to shout his feelings from the rooftops, but he’s the kind of person who shows up, roots for you and will never leave your side when things get tough. He’s someone who’s there for you when it really matters. His love language is subtle, but it’s no less powerful.
Personally, I find this type of male character extremely attractive.
As the story progresses, we start to see the layers beneath Alex’s calm exterior. He’s not just a man who likes routine; he’s someone who’s been hurt before, someone who’s afraid of taking risks when it comes to matters of the heart. Alex’s past relationships have left him wary, and his bond with Poppy, though incredibly deep, is something he’s hesitant to fully embrace because of that fear. It’s easier for Alex to keep things as they are—steady, predictable, safe—than to risk losing the one person who means the most to him, which Poppy still doesn’t get: she thinks that he’s not really interested in her.
But Alex’s journey is all about learning to take that leap of faith. Being around Poppy forces him out of his comfort zone, and while it’s not easy for him, it’s clear that she brings out a side of Alex that’s more open, more willing to embrace the unexpected. You can feel his internal struggle—the push and pull between wanting to stay safe and the undeniable draw he feels towards Poppy and her world. It’s this tension that makes Alex’s transformation so compelling.
One of the most poignant aspects of Alex’s character development is his realization that love is worth the risk. Over the course of their many summer trips, Alex begins to see that the life he’s carefully constructed for himself—one built on safety and predictability—isn’t as fulfilling as he thought. Poppy challenges him to consider what it means to truly live, to embrace the messiness of love and life. And as much as Alex tries to resist, you can see him slowly, almost reluctantly, start to let go of his fears.
By the end of the novel, Alex’s transformation is quietly powerful. He’s still the steady, reliable man he’s always been, but there’s a newfound openness in him—a willingness to be vulnerable, to admit what he really wants. Alex learns that life isn’t about avoiding risks; it’s about taking them for the right reasons, for the right person. He realizes that love isn’t something to be managed or controlled; it’s something to be embraced, with all its uncertainties and challenges.
In the end, Alex’s journey is about growth and bravery. He moves from a place of fear and caution to one of hope and courage, all because of his deep, unwavering love for Poppy. His transformation is subtle but profound, and it’s what makes him such a memorable and endearing character. Alex’s story is a reminder that sometimes the biggest risks are the ones that lead to the greatest rewards, and that true love is worth stepping out of your comfort zone for.
Always.
Book Picks for August 2024
- Forever, Interrupted by Taylor Jenkins Reid
- Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby van Pelt
- Shark Heart by Emily Habeck
- You, Again by Kate Goldbeck
Other Book Recommendations
- Amrita by Banana Yoshimoto
- The Zahir by Paulo Coelho
All Lost In Pages Posts
- LOST IN PAGES: BOOK REFLECTIONS JULY 2024 – SUMMER, VACATION, LOVE
- LOST IN PAGES: BOOK REFLECTIONS JUNE 2024 – THE MAGIC OF LOVE
- LOST IN PAGES: BOOK REFLECTIONS MAY 2024 – SECOND CHANCES AND PARALLEL LIVES
- LOST IN PAGES: BOOK REFLECTIONS, APRIL 2024 – THE HEROINE’S JOURNEY
- LOST IN PAGES: BOOK REFLECTIONS MARCH 2024 – JOURNEYING THROUGH LOSS, GRIEF, AND NEWFOUND JOY
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