August was the first month I made a monthly TBR in quite some time–I’m typically more of a mood reader, but I wanted to join in on the fun with Subtle Asian’s Book Club’s Summer Reading Bingo. It was a great time to tackle the books that had been sitting on my TBR for far too long, as well as pick up some more recent releases that I’d been meaning to read. I ended up reading a total of 7 books/web comics–making it one of my better reading months this year. Here’s a wrap-up of all my August reads!
A book set by the water: The Ones We’re Meant to Find
It hurts me to say this, considering how much I enjoyed Joan He’s previous book (Descendant of the Crane), but I’m on the fence about this one. On one hand, it’s one of the most beautiful covers I’ve ever seen, and I think the concept is very interesting, but on the other hand, I was pretty confused for the majority of the book, and I was lukewarm about the open ending. I think sci-fi might just not be my cup of tea, sadly. Nonetheless, I’m excited for whatever Joan He writes next!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read a webtoon, manga, or graphic novel: Wind Breaker
This webcomic has been on my TBR for too long! It was trending in the webcomic community on TikTok and with all the amazing edits, I decided to finally read it. But it wasn’t exactly smooth sailing (or should I say biking). I wasn’t a fan of the art in the earlier chapters and it took nearly 100 chapters for the story to grow on me–but I’d say it’s worth it! I love the current art and I’m very much invested in the characters now.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
A book less than 300 pages: Solo Leveling vol 2
If you didn’t already know, I’m obsessed with Solo Leveling and I’m collecting the english volumes as they release. Volume 2 recently came out so I went ahead and picked up a copy and reread it (this is my third reread). I loved it! I think the english translation is excellent and the art is wonderful as always. You can find my review for the series here: Why You Should Read Solo Leveling.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
A book recommended by a SABC member: Loveboat, Taipei
Another one I was on the fence about. This was recommended by Tiffany from SABC and it’s been on my TBR for quite some time as well! I appreciated the themes this book tackled (mental health, racism, being a first gen American) and I thought the overall message of the story was great, but there were also aspects that didn’t work for me, including the over-the-top drama, cheating, and *drumroll* love triangle (sorry I hate love triangles).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
A book with an illustrated cover: XOXO by Axie Oh
I adored this one! It gave me all the giddy, lighthearted romance k-drama feels and it’s such a fun read. If you like k-drama and k-pop, definitely check this one out. It put the biggest smile on my face! You can find my review here.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A book set during the summer: So We Meet Again
This is my favorite Suzanne Park book yet! I loved the family dynamic and how Park presented the relationship between immigrant parents and daughter, and I felt like Jess was relatable in many ways in her hopes and fears. If you’re looking for a heartwarming and uplifting read, look no further. Bonus if you’re a foodie!! Full review here.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Read during sunrise or sunset: The Flower Dances and the Wind Sings
I’ve been loving this webcomic, hence squeezing in a couple chapters at sunrise before I go to work. It’s FULL of angst and misunderstandings, and deals with heavy topics like postpartum depression and child neglect–essentially, the story is about a mother’s regret. It’s a terribly sad story with beautiful art, and we know how much I love the emotional havoc of tragic stories (or maybe you don’t, but now you do).
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
tender curiosity 
Ah, I want to read XOXO! It’s been on my list since I read Axie Oh’s sci-fi series over Christmas. LOVED those.
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