“One is not born, but rather becomes a woman.”
-Simone de Beauvoir-
According to Simone, just being born as a girl does not make one a woman; the decisions, actions, ideas, opinions, views, and, most importantly, experiences make her a woman.
Women are considered weak, dependent, and vulnerable around the world. They are seen as someone not made for the world outside the four walls of the house. Although, in recent times, there has been quite a development in this category, women are still struggling. It will be a long race until equality and independence are considered the right of every woman worldwide.
However, when women decide to go against society for their happiness and freedom, they are considered outcasts for the choices made and labeled as rebellious. Whether they succeed or fail, they rarely get accepted back. In the case of succeeding, society takes the credit for being supportive when they are not. And if they fail, the same society would mock them and throw stones at them.
This reality is also explored in many summer books for young adults. Let’s discuss some of the top reads in this genre and how they are making a difference by highlighting the current issues prevalent in our society and showing strong female protagonists.
1. The Countess of Stonemason by V.C. Love
“The Countess of Stonemason,” a historical legend by V.C. Love, is a story about Andrea. She is a peculiar yet strong-headed girl. This is the tale of how she rose to prominence. Andrea challenges the status quo and embarks on an adventurous journey through France, Spain, and The New Spain.
With this historical legend, V.C. Love explored themes like independence vs. conformance, madness and obsession, love and loneliness, and ambition and sacrifices. The author aims to highlight both the pros and consequences of being rebellious with having power. This story fits perfectly in summer book recommendations for young adults interested in this genre.
V.C. Love, a resident of Chicago, is a Master’s degree holder. She graduated from National Louis University and is a second-grader teacher. Veronica is married and has four kids of her own. She enjoys reading, writing, and spending time with her family when she is not teaching.
Aside from the thrill of power, the author also explores 18th-century France and romance, making it one of the best historical fiction romance books of 2024. The plot is captivating and attention-grabbing as it has drama, action, and sacrifices. The world-building, intricate characters, intense and emotional themes, rich historical scenarios, pragmatic conflicts, mature relationships, exploration of social issues, interlinked subplots, and satisfying resolutions make this book an exemplary summer book recommendation for adults.
2. Bridgerton: The Duke and I by Julia Quinn
Julia Quinn’s series of romantic fiction books is a masterpiece showing the historical times of London. Her series of novels, which go by the name “Bridgerton,” have been making their way into every home globally with the Netflix-produced show.
The first book of the series is known as “The Duke and I.” It introduces a young girl, Daphne, who is the first one among her siblings to enter the marriage market. As the story progresses, it can be seen how the female protagonist develops from being someone just following the steps of her mother to gaining control of her life.
This book is a perfect summer book recommendation for young adults as it has drama, spice, a historical setting, and, most importantly, strong leading female characters.
3. Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
Diana Gabaldon’s book series “Outlander” is New York’s #1 Bestseller. It is rated as one of the top ten best-loved novels in America. It is the story of Claire Randall, a former British combat, who is reunited with her husband on a second honeymoon. The story takes a massive turn when she unknowingly steps through a standing stone in one of the ancient circles that dot the British Isles. There, she became an Outlander by travelling to 1743 Scotland.
Claire then finds herself torn between two very different men, one being her husband and the other being Jamie Fraser, who is a gallant young Scots warrior. Outlander is a nine-book series, perfect to keep you engaged throughout the summer.
We hope you like our summer book recommendations for young adults. If you are in the mood for a dark female villain protagonist, grab your copy of V.C. Love’s The Countess of Stonemason and discover how Andrea satisfies her thirst for control over the world and the men around her.
Available now on Amazon.
