Until very recently, I was in a pretty significant reading slump. I found it really difficult to sit and read for long periods of time, and I started multiple books without finishing them.
Little did I know, all I needed was one really good book to get back on track, which I found in Rachel Gillig’s The Knight and the Moth. I was immediately drawn into the moody, gothic world-building vibes, and I just couldn’t put it down.
Side note: I’m planning to go back and do a full review of this book very soon, so stay tuned!
Now that I’m reading again, I wanted to set a reading goal for myself for August and September. I know I’m a little late posting this list (oops!), but better late than never!
Affiliate Link Disclosure
This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you choose to purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. I only share products I genuinely love or think you’ll enjoy.
The Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
This epic fantasy novel follows multiple storylines: Ead (a mage secretly protecting Queen Sabran in the West), Tané (a dragonrider trainee in the East), Niclays Roos (an exiled alchemist in the East), and Arteloth (Loth) Beck (Queen Sabran’s childhood friend who has been exiled). These four main characters exist in a divided world that is facing the return of the Nameless One, an ancient evil dragon set on destroying humanity. It explores themes of isolationism, history vs. myth, and religious/cultural divides.
I have had this on my TBR for literal years, and I’ve picked it up before, only never to finish. I decided to restart it last week, and I honestly can’t believe that I have never finished it before. I’m doing an immersive read (listening to the audiobook and following along in my physical book) to help me stay on track. It’s a longer read than some of the others on this list, so I’m trying to stay consistent and read some of it every day.
The Lion & the Deathless Dark by Carissa Broadbent
I have been waiting for months and months for this book, which is book #5 in the Crowns of Nyaxia series and the first of the Bloodborn duet. It’s set ten years after the events of the last book, The Fallen & the Kiss of Dusk. In the novel, humanity lives in a never-ending darkness. We meet bounty hunter Kyrene (who made a very brief cameo in book #4) and learn more about Bloodborn vampire prince Septimus. Together, they set out to kill the gods of the White Pantheon.
This book came out last week, and I couldn’t wait to start it! This series got me out of a serious reading slump several years ago, and I love it so much. I’m a big fan of duologies, and this series is made up of three duologies, each following different couples and vampire houses. If you want a fast-paced, super exciting fantasy, read this series immediately.
The Second Death of Locke by V.L. Bovalino
This romantic epic fantasy follows Grey Flynn, who has sworn to protect her mage, Kier. They are bound together by blood and magic. However, Grey has a secret she’s been keeping from Kier that has world-altering consequences.
I had actually never heard of this book before, but it popped up as a suggestion on Amazon. I loved the cover art, so I purchased it solely based on vibes. I also read that it’s great for fans of Rachel Gillig, so I thought I’d give it a shot.
And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
The novel takes place on a remote island off the coast of Devon. Ten individuals are accused of various crimes, and they are slowly killed one by one according to the lines of a popular nursery rhyme.
This is my monthly wildcard! I’m almost embarrassed to admit that I have never read this Agatha Christie novel, despite having it on my bookshelf for years. It’s literally the world’s bestselling mystery novel and one of the bestselling novels of all time, so I’m really excited to read it.
Dream On, Ramona Riley by Ashley Herring Blake
Ramona, a waitress and former art student, reconnects with Dylan, a Hollywood actress, when a movie starts shooting in Ramona’s small town. Both are forced to balance their romance with their dreams.
I absolutely LOVE Ashley Herring Blake’s Bright Falls series, which includes Delilah Green Doesn’t Care, Astrid Parker Doesn’t Fail, and Iris Kelly Doesn’t Date. It’s a cozy, LGBT rom-com series that I recommend to everyone. Dream On, Ramona Riley is the first book of her new Clover Lake series.
Spark of the Everflame by Penn Cole
The novel follows Diem Bellator, a young human healer living in a world ruled by the Descended, a group of cruel demigods. After her mother disappears, she begins to uncover dark secrets about her past.
It features a slow-burn romance sprinkled with political intrigue, which is my absolute favorite. I also love a story with a strong, badass FMC, so I think this one will be a great fit.
Final Thoughts
And these are my picks for August and September! Hopefully, I can finish them all, but I’m trying not to put too much pressure on myself. Reading is supposed to be fun, and I’m just happy that I’m finally out of my summer-long slump. I can’t wait to dive into these novels and let you know what I think!
