What I Read Last Month (August 2024)
Reading through a slump
Do you ever have one of those reading slumps where there is so much going on that you find it difficult to focus on reading? August was one of those months for me, but not for lack of trying! I picked up and put down several books that I know I’ll go back to when I can devote more focus to my reading. But I also read some great stuff that is a real testament to how good the books were because they held my wandering attention.
Let’s dive right in!
Murder in the Ranks by Kristi Jones
I received a copy of this Algiers-set World War II mystery a few months before it comes out1, and I was so pleased I did! I actually wrote an endorsement because I enjoyed the book so much. Here it is!
Impeccably researched and cleverly plotted, Murder in the Ranks deftly introduces Auxiliary Dottie Lincoln, a determined WAAC navigating life in occupied Algiers. When one of Dottie's fellow WAACs falls to her death, she's compelled to investigate and uncover dark truths about the war—even when they threaten to reveal Dottie's own dangerous secret. This is one book mystery and historical fiction fans won't want to miss!
Spy Camp (Spy School #2) by Stuart Gibbs
I hopped back into my exploration of Middle Grade fiction this month and read book two of the Spy School series after enjoying the first book so much. These books are a lot of fun and scratch a James Bond-type itch.
This was the book that helped get me out of my reading slump/difficulty focusing. I always enjoy Kate Quinn’s books, and this was no exception. She uses a mid-century D.C. boarding house as the central device around which to tell several women’s stories that ultimately come together in a final dramatic conclusion. Highly recommended!
Inspector Imanishi Investigates by Seichō Matsumoto
I picked up this book on a whim at Daunt Books in London purely because the cover reminded me of In the Mood for Love, a favorite movie of mine. However, I’ve also been wanting to read some Japanese detective fiction after my sister raved about several books. So far I’m thoroughly enjoying it very much!
What’s Next on My TBR
Normally this is where I would talk about what I have coming up on my TBR. However, this month I’m not going to do that because I’m heading on holiday, and I plan to talk about holiday reading in another newsletter. Keep an eye out for that one!
It comes out November 19.
Love your recommendations.
Speaking of James Bond itch, I read Double or Nothing by Kim Sherwood in August. Trilogy that has the blessing of the Ian Fleming estate and was MUCH FUN. I'm excited to read book # 2.