Sponsored by Flatiron Books, publisher of Of Women and Salt by Gabriela Garcia.
A sweeping, masterful debut about a daughter’s fateful choice, a mother motivated by her own past, and a family legacy that begins in Cuba before either of them were born. Of Women and Salt by Gabriela Garcia is a powerful novel from an incredible new talent.
Welcome to Read This Book, the newsletter where I recommend a book you should add to your TBR, STAT! I stan variety in all things, and my book recommendations will be no exception. These must-read books will span genres and age groups. There will be new releases, oldie but goldies from the backlist, and the classics you may have missed in high school. Oh my! If you’re ready to diversify your books, then LEGGO!!
Sometimes we need an easy book to read whether it’s to recover from an emotionally demanding tome or to get out of a reading rut. Today’s reading recommendation is just that.
The Enlightenment of Bees by Rachel Linden
At 26, Mia West has her entire future planned until Mia’s boyfriend Ethan breaks up with her after six years of dating. Although devastated, Mia is determined to find new meaning in her life. Guided by a recurring dream of honeybees, Mia decides to join her roommate and best friend Rosie on an around-the-world humanitarian trip.
Honestly speaking, I shouldn’t have enjoyed The Enlightenment of Bees because I was totally bookfished by it! As you can see, the cover is absolutely gorgeous, so there is no way I could not be intrigued by a book with such an Instagram-worthy cover, right?! Unfortunately, I am promised a story where bees play a central role, but that is not this story, and that doesn’t meet my expectations. However, this did not keep me from enjoying this book. I actually really enjoyed The Enlightenment of Bees.
Despite being disappointed by the lack of bees, I liked that The Enlightenment of Bees reminded me of other books I’ve read in the past. The traumatic end to Mia’s relationship followed by a humanitarian trip across the globe gave me serious Eat Pray Love vibes. Surprisingly, Mia’s constant reference to Saint Mia reminded me of Anastasia Steele and her Inner Goddess. Most importantly, the overall story is on par with all the feel-good literary rom-coms I’ve experienced recently.
The Enlightenment of Bees was not a book I would have sought out on my own, but I’m glad it entered my orbit. This may not be the must-read book for bee enthusiasts, but it’s a great book to read if you are looking for a light read with a little romance and a dash of “finding your path in life” introspection.
Until next time bookish friends,
Katisha
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