What we’re reading by the pool and on the plane this summer

Reading is one of my favorite hobbies and I’m working on building more and more time into my schedule to enjoy it. Whenever I do, the most wonderful things happen. I feel more creative, my writing improves, and I’m so much more relaxed and happier.

Here are a few books I’m currently reading – and a few more that are in the line up. I love discovering new books. Please add what you’re reading in the comments!

Bad Blood

I am tearing through this one – it’s so intriguing and a definite page-turner. This is also on our book club list this month.

The Secret of Chanel No. 5: The Intimate History of the World’s Most Famous Perfume

This book practically jumped into my cart after our trip to Grasse, France last month where we dipped our toes into the perfume world.

The Long Weekend: Life in the English Country House, 1918-1939 

Equal parts scandal and history makes this a perfect beach read to me.

CRU Oyster Bar Nantucket Cookbook: Savoring Four Seasons of the Good Life

One of our favorite restaurants in Nantucket just released their cookbook and I can’t wait to dive into it this summer.

Gray Malin: Italy

I’ve admired Gray Malin’s stunning photography for ages. I’m so excited about his new book of photographs of Italy, including some from Cinque Terre, which was one of the most picturesque spots we went to on our last trip to the country.

Modern Monarchy: The British Royal Family Today

Chris Jackson is a photographer of the Royal Family that I’ve followed for a while. I’m excited to check out his book. He captures the best angles and has a fabulous eye for candids.

What She Ate: Six Remarkable Women and the Food That Tells Their Stories

A total wild card for me. This book just sounds so interesting – especially the women the author chose to showcase.

Mario Buatta: Fifty Years of American Interior Decoration

This book immediately went on my list after hearing Emily Evans Eerdmans speak at Hillwood recently.

The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge

David McCullough is one of my all-time favorite authors.

May I Come In?: Discovering the World in Other People’s Houses

Wendy Goodman partners with some of the best interior photographers to peek into the homes of artists and eccentrics. It’s true. You really do get to know someone when you step into their home.

The Common Rule: Habits of Purpose for an Age of Distraction

Part devotional and part self-help, but all very, very relevant today.

Please share what’s on your list in the comments below!

This post contains affiliate links, but all are tried and true Magnolia Stripes favorites.