What I Read in April and May

What I Read in April and May
📍 Southampton, NY

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Since April really got away from me, I didn’t get nearly as much reading done as I wanted to. Only two books, which wasn’t enough for a full blog post. So I’ve decided to combine my reading list for April and May. Although I still love diving into compelling non-fiction and stories of women, I sense my taste shifting to beach rides now that we’re unofficially/officially in the summer season. If you’re looking to add something new to your reading list, here’s what I read in April and May.

Pirate Women

Pirate Women is a non-fiction read dives deep into the hidden history of female pirates across centuries and seas. From ancient queens to swashbuckling rebels, each chapter explores a new woman who defied expectations and fought for power in a man’s world. The tone is accessible and informative, with enough vivid storytelling to keep the pages turning. It’s not a lighthearted romp, but it is fascinating—perfect if you’re in the mood for something that blends history, feminism, and adventure.

The Nine

The Nine was easily one of the most powerful books I’ve read in a long time. It follows nine women—Resistance fighters during World War II—who formed an unbreakable bond while enduring unimaginable hardship. It’s not an easy read, but it’s a necessary one. Their courage, sacrifice, and loyalty left me in awe. I found myself needing to pause and reflect often, and I carried their stories with me long after I turned the final page. If you’re looking for something profoundly moving, especially about the strength of female friendship under pressure, I can’t recommend this enough.

Vanderbilt

This family biography reads like a saga—one that blends old money, ambition, tragedy, and excess. Vanderbilt traces the rise and fall of the Vanderbilt dynasty, revealing both the glamour and the grief behind their name. I especially appreciated how the narrative balanced historical context with more personal reflection. It was fascinating to learn how a single family helped shape America’s identity, but also how quickly legacy can unravel. While it’s filled with the trappings of Gilded Age wealth, there’s a melancholy thread that makes it more than just a tale of opulence.

Such Good Friends

Such Good Friends reimagines the complicated friendship between Truman Capote and Lee Radziwill, pulling back the curtain on their glittering social world. Set against the backdrop of high society and old-money Manhattan, it captures both the intimacy and tension of a relationship built on mutual admiration—and quiet betrayal. The writing feels cinematic, with sharp dialogue and cameos from a who’s who of 1960s and ’70s culture.

Jaws

As one of my all-time favorite movies, I wanted to go back to the original novel ahead of this summer’s 50th anniversary. Jaws is darker and grittier than the film, with more time spent on the town’s politics and interpersonal tension. That said, the suspense still holds up beautifully—and the beach scenes are just as chilling. It was fascinating to spot the differences between the book and the film adaptation, and I’d recommend it to anyone who loves classic thrillers or is looking for a summer read with bite (pun intended).

The Lost of Summers of Newport

Set in one of my favorite coastal destinations, The Lost Summers of Newport weaves together three timelines and a cast of women tied to a crumbling Newport mansion. The rotating perspectives kept things engaging, and I loved the mix of mystery, family drama, and architectural nostalgia. It’s a perfect beach read if you enjoy stories that stretch across generations with a touch of scandal and secrets. There’s a little bit of everything: romance, history, and a setting so vivid you can practically hear the waves hitting the shore.

Now that we’re in June, I have a new list of books on the horizon. Currently, I’m reading All the Summers in Between, which takes place in the Hamptons during the summer of 1967. I deeply enjoyed Brooke Lea Foster’s other two novels, Summer Darlings and On Gin Lane, and this book is no exception! In July,PThe her next novel Our Last Vineyard Summer releases and I’m already excited to add that to my book list. Maybe it will even be included in next month’s round up. Until then, keep me on track, and I’ll share all the great books in next month’s review. Happy reading!

Love from the Hamptons,
Katie

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