What are we reading this month? Which books have surprised us, disappointed us and completely taken over our lives? In this episode, we're chatting current reads, theatre trips, summer holidays, and looking back at the highs and lows of our buddy reads.

Before we get to the books, we catch up on life. Hannah shares the juggle of working through the school summer holidays while trying to create memorable experiences for her daughter, while Nikki is looking forward to seeing My Neighbour Totoro on stage. We discuss whether it's better to watch the Studio Ghibli film before the theatre production and Nikki also gives her thoughts on The Odyssey, including some of the criticism surrounding the film.

⚠️ Spoiler warning: We discuss plot twists and endings throughout this episode.

Hannah reviews Emily Henry's latest novel, discussing why she feels the author's writing continues to mature, with richer characters and more layered storytelling. If you enjoy emotional contemporary romance, dual timelines and books such as The Summer I Turned Pretty or Every Summer After, this one's worth a look.

Nikki also recommends The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid for readers wanting another compelling character-driven novel.

A compulsive page-turner that Hannah devoured in just two sittings. We discuss the novel's emotional love story, courtroom drama and thriller elements, while also debating whether withholding information from readers makes for great storytelling, or simply feels manipulative. Perfect for book clubs and holiday reading.

One of the most talked-about books of the year so far. We discuss why twist endings are such a risky business, what makes a satisfying reveal and whether every novel really needs a huge final twist.

After seeing Operation Mincemeat in the West End, Nikki picked up Finding Hester, the remarkable true story behind one of the Second World War's most fascinating intelligence operations. We explore the real woman behind the famous forged love letters and why this forgotten piece of history continues to captivate readers.

A fantasy romance spanning multiple lifetimes, in which Evelyn remembers every past life—and every murder. Nikki shares her thoughts on whether the ending delivered, prompting a wider discussion about plot reveals, pacing and when authors should reveal their biggest secrets.

A quick update on our upcoming buddy read...

The Homemade God by Rachel Joyce has been postponed until September because of something very exciting happening behind the scenes (more on that soon!).

Our next buddy read is now:

A Room Above a Shop by Anthony Shapland.

We're revisiting all of our previous buddy reads to date and handing out some very unofficial awards.

Books featured include:

• Hamnet – Maggie O'Farrell

• A Walk in the Park – Jill Mansell

• The Lamb – Lucy Rose

• H is for Hawk – Helen Macdonald

• The Measure – Nikki Erlick

• Feel Free – Zadie Smith

• Land – Simon Winchester

Categories include:

• Best female character

• Best male character

• Most infuriating plot point

• Which book needed an edit?

• Saddest moment

• Happiest moment

• Most uplifting moment

Whether you're looking for your next great read, love hearing honest book discussions, or simply enjoy chatting all things books, we'd love you to join us.

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and let us know what you're reading this month!

Our Current ReadsGreat Big Beautiful Life – Emily HenryBroken Country – Claire Leslie HallYesteryear – Caro Claire BurkeFinding Hester (multiple authors)Our Infinite Fates – Laura StevenBuddy Read Update Buddy Read Awards