July arrives like a soft breath in the middle of the year — slow, shimmering, and in-between. In this episode of The Ritual of Reading, I’m sharing the inspirations shaping my summer: early morning walks in Paris, quiet rituals that soothe the heatwave, and books that bloom like gardens on the page.

You’ll hear about the reads accompanying me this month — from Penelope Lively’s meditations on gardening and memory, to a historical novel steeped in the history of the Luxembourg Gardens, and the ever-delightful Diary of a Provincial Lady. There’s also a hydrangea named Hortense, a seasonal quiche recipe, and a gentle reflection on how to create moments of joy even when you're not on vacation.

If you’re staying home this July, this episode is your invitation to notice beauty where you are — to read slowly, walk gently, and build a summer you don’t need to escape from.

Links mentioned:
– The Summer Reading Ritual (free guide): https://theritualofreading.com/the-summer-reading-ritual-2025/
– Courgette, Mint & Feta Quiche Recipe:
– July Literary Mood Board (blog post):
– Say hello on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritual_of_reading/