This Month's Book Recommendations & Recipe Pairings
As we enter the dog days of summer, it's too hot to do almost anything. But it's always a good time to pull out a good book, whether you choose to read by the pool or stay in the comfort of the air conditioning. If you've been in a bit of a summer reading slump, our book lovers have a few recommendations to pull you right out. Plus, we think you'll enjoy this month's food and drink pairings, which include everything from creamy clam chowder and crusty homemade sourdough to refreshing cocktails with a psychedelic color scheme. Happy reading!
Kate's Pick
What I loved most about Yesteryear was how it challenged the romanticized "tradwife" fantasy by showing the emotional and psychological toll that life could take on women.
There were few likeable characters in this book, which made it both riveting and unsettling. I'm pairing it with an easy sourdough recipe because you can't be a true tradwife without mastering the art of breadmaking first.
Taylor's Pick
I adored this. Which feels an odd thing to say about a “thriller” starring an octogenarian lead character. This was definitely a divergence from Sally Hepworth's typical genre of chick lit and domestic thrillers. And I absolutely loved it.
Chelsey's Pick
As someone who's been in a bit of a reading slump, I had a feeling Cat Sebastian would be the author to pull me out of it — and I was right. Star Shipped answers the question: What if the two co-stars everyone ships actually ended up together? The result is a charming, behind-the-scenes romance featuring two longtime co-stars — one grumpy, one sunshine— who slowly set their rivalry aside and discover that the chemistry between them isn't just for the cameras.
From the very first page, I couldn't put it down. And the best part? No third-act breakup. If you're looking for a romance that will keep you hooked from start to finish, whether you're in a reading slump or not, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
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Jane's Pick
Dark academia lovers, this one's for you (and me!): an elite New England boarding school, a snowbound estate and a storytelling workshop that turns eight ambitious students against each other and their mysterious mentor. It's got that delicious "who's the monster, really" tension, plus a dead teacher and secrets.
(I totally picked up this book because I liked the cover. Luckily, you can judge a book well by its cover!) Pair the book with a mug of Midnight Mulled Wine and a bowl of New England clam chowder; cozy up, because you won't want to leave the reading "cliff" until you find out who the monster really is.
For more hand-picked book recommendations and recipe pairings, subscribe to our email newsletter, or download our Book & Wine Pairing Companion Guide. In case you missed, it don't forget to check out our food and drink pairings from July 2026.