I do not even know how to tackle this list. There are so many new releases I am behind on for winter/spring. And yet the ones slated to come out this summer are still here.

And let's discuss the obstacle in obtaining them. With the library closed, do I really want to spend all this money to read? I try to stick to a budget for kindle books.

My normal rules of thumb:

It cannot be over $9.99.

If the library has it, I can NOT purchase. I have to wait. My favorite thing. 

If it is a book I will revisit in the future, I can buy a physical copy. 

I think I may have to revisit these parameters, but nevertheless, here are the books I want to dive in this summer.

It's Not All Downhill From Here - Terry McMillan
Undercover Bromance - Lyssa Kay Adams
Island Affair - Priscilla Oliveras
Foul is Fair - Hannah Capin
Influence: Death on a Beach - Carl Weber


Now grab your glasses...it is time for our summer toast.

Cheers to being still, present, and relishing in the moment. Let's not take things for granted and commit to doing our parts to ensure we continue to flatten the curve. Bask in the oasis of your home. Pause. Reflect. Love hard. Be kind. Pray incessantly. And stay safe. 

There is something about the way Kimmery Martin weaves a story. You are immediately drawn by her characters and the issues they encounter while tackling this thing called life.

Jonah and Georgia's story was no different. The solid foundation of their friendship was a main theme for this book. Who doesn't appreciate someone you know will always be in your corner?!

With 96 books read, I exceeded my original Goodreads challenge of 52. Yet I had to narrow it down to my top 8. This called for a Book Smart Street Snark brainstorming session over a steady pour of wine.

There was one common trend amongst most books I loved. Women authors. Women main characters. Women supporting each other. Women standing for something. Women tackling challenges. Women not tolerating bullshit.


1. Watch Us Rise - sometimes all we need is a good playlist to power thru.
2. Queenie - surround yourself with people who will defend your honor when you lose your voice.
3. The Swallows - engage in open & honest communication with the next generation. Be who your teenage self needed to help them find their power. 
4. The Giver of Stars - support other women without judgment. 
5. Love & Other Words  - always remember: love, grace, and gratitude. 
6. Daisy Jones & The Six - be someone who others can lean on thru tough times. AND be comfortable with being vulnerable in the challenging moments with those who show up for you. 
7. On The Come Up - do not back down from your beliefs - stand firm in what you know to be right. 
8. Ayesha at Last - embrace differences and other cultures with open hearts. 

Now time for my fave part: what books did you love this year?!