What Are You Reading? with Brad Summerville (@bradboughtabook)

History Is All You Left Me is a poignant novel exploring grief, guilt, and the complexities of love. The story centers on Griffin, who is grappling with the sudden death of his first love, Theo. As Griffin struggles to come to terms with his loss, he also learns that Theo had a boyfriend in California, leading him to question everything he thought he knew about their relationship. Through alternating timelines, the novel delves into Griffin and Theo's past, revealing the beauty and challenges of their bond. The book explores themes of identity, forgiveness, and the enduring power of love in the face of tragedy.

No Body, No Crime follows Chloe and Mel, two former best friends who find themselves entangled in a dangerous situation six years after drifting apart. When a body is discovered, Chloe and Mel must confront their past and decide how far they are willing to go to protect each other. As they navigate a web of secrets, lies, and betrayals, Chloe and Mel rediscover their bond and confront the challenges that drove them apart. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the lengths we go to for those we care about, set against a backdrop of suspense and mystery.

Published in 1956, 'Giovanni's Room' is a groundbreaking novel by James Baldwin that delves into the life of David, a young American expatriate in Paris. David is caught between his desire for Giovanni, an Italian bartender, and his engagement to Hella, an American woman. The novel explores themes of love, shame, guilt, and the internal conflicts that arise from societal expectations and personal identity. As David navigates his relationships and grapples with his sexuality, the story unfolds into a tragic confrontation with the consequences of his choices and the unspoken complexities of the human heart.

Razorblade Tears is a gripping novel that delves into the complex lives of two fathers seeking vengeance for their sons' murders. It explores themes of homophobia, masculinity, and redemption, set against the backdrop of the rural South. Cosby's work is praised for its realistic dialogue and detailed characterization.

In 'The Road to Ruin', James Rickards provides a detailed critique of the global financial system, arguing that it is vulnerable to collapse due to systemic flaws and the actions of financial elites. He outlines scenarios where global elites might implement drastic measures like asset freezes and economic halts, backed by state power. The book offers insights into wealth preservation strategies in the face of such crises.