You know, there’s something truly magical about the joy of reading. It’s like stepping into a portal that whisks you away to distant lands, thrilling adventures and extraordinary lives. You get to live multiple lives in one lifetime, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook. I mean, have you ever felt that rush when you’re so engrossed in a book that you lose track of time? It’s like the world around you disappears, and you’re completely immersed in the story, feeling every emotion alongside the characters. And the best part? You can do it all at your own pace, savoring each page like a delectable treat.
So, this summer, why not pick up a book, feel that excitement and get lost in the joy of reading? There’s nothing better than summer reading; taking a book to the beach or even outdoors while the kids are playing adds an extra little something to a good story. No matter your favorite genre (or if you even have a favorite genre), I have something below sure to delight. From thrillers and romance to grand adventures and essays that will make you laugh out loud, prepare to fall in love with reading all over again.
The Five-Star Weekend by Erin Hilderbrand
So there’s this food blogger and her life seems perfect, you know? (You’ve seen it, don’t lie.) Popular blog, married to a dreamy heart surgeon. But, then tragedy strikes after a big fight with her husband and he dies in a car accident. She hears about this cool thing called a “Five-Star Weekend,” where you invite best friends from different stages of your life for a trip but things don’t go as planned. It’s a surprising and captivating story about friendship, love and self-discovery.
Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros
Step into the fiery and cutthroat world of dragon riders in this highly anticipated novel — a brilliant mix of adventure and fantasy. Violet Sorrengail never expected to be thrust into the elite ranks of dragon riders at Basgiath War College. With dragons bonding only with the strongest, she faces deadly odds. Amid friends, enemies, and fierce competition, Violet must summon all her cunning to survive in this action-packed journey. The Empyrean series continues with “Iron Flame,” set to be released November 7.
The Wager by David Grann
Prepare to be captivated by this #1 New York Times bestseller from the mastermind behind “Killers of the Flower Moon.” Delve into a thrilling tale of shipwreck, survival and the dark side (there’s still a light side somewhere, right?) of human nature, all culminating in a jaw-dropping court martial that exposes shocking truths. Grann weaves a gripping narrative, immersing you in the hidden world of a British warship and the harrowing struggles of castaways.
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
“At seventeen, Lenora Hope/Hung her sister with a rope…” If that alone doesn’t captivate you, we can’t be friends. Bestselling author Riley Sager brings you a gothic thriller that will send shivers down your spine. Follow a young caregiver as she takes on a job caring for a woman accused of a Lizzie Borden-like massacre years ago. Packed with mystery and suspense, this instant New York Times bestseller has been named a must-read by top publications like Oprah, Good Housekeeping and more — plus me, who just finished it with a “wow!”
Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum
Prepare to be hooked by Emma Rosenblum’s national bestseller, a gripping debut that takes you on a wild ride of infidelity, betrayal and murder in an exclusive summer haven. With sharp wit and clever satire akin to “White Lotus,” this novel has earned praise from Kevin Kwan, bestselling author of “Crazy Rich Asians.” This suspenseful tale follows a group of questionable characters as they navigate secrets and grudges amidst a shocking discovery: a body found on the boardwalk.
Weyward by Emilia Hart
Dive into the enchanting world of “Weyward, an instant New York Times bestseller. Emilia Hart’s debut weaves an enthralling tale of three extraordinary women over five centuries, their lives entangled with witchcraft and the untamed forces of nature. Unravel the threads of female resilience and the potent transformation found in the natural realm. Get ready for a spellbinding journey that will leave you feeling wild and bewitched.
The Drowning Woman by Robyn Harding
Buckle up for a dark and thrilling ride in the latest masterpiece from the bestselling author of “The Party.” Lee Gulliver’s life takes an unexpected turn when she finds herself homeless after her restaurant fails. But when she rescues a wealthy society wife named Hazel from drowning, their paths become entwined in a dangerous dance of redemption, betrayal and friendship. As they form an unlikely bond, Hazel’s shocking request sends them both into a world of deception and deceit. This one was so twisty, my head is still spinning!
Quietly Hostile by Samatha Irby
Prepare to laugh out loud with Samantha Irby’s hilarious new essay collection, “Quietly Hostile.” This New York Times bestseller will engage you with laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt passages and plenty of awkward experiences. Roxane Gay hails Irby as one of the funniest writers, and Jia Tolentino praises her as the “king of sparkling misanthropy and tender, loving dread.” Don’t miss this uproarious tour of the life behind the screenshotted depression memes—a relatable, poignant tonic for all your woes.
Hula by Jasmin Iolani Hakes
Even if summer travel is out of the question this year, you can still take a spellbinding journey to Hilo, Hawaii, with this captivating summer beach read. A saga spanning generations, “Hula” weaves together tradition, family and culture through the lives of three women. Hi’i, a Naupaka with dreams of hula glory, discovers the secrets and fractures that shape her community’s destiny. With poetic prose, this stunning debut offers a rare glimpse into a forgotten kingdom that lives on in the hearts of its people.
The Elissa by Samantha Leach
Sometimes the best story is a true story, which is certainly the case for this Samantha Leach work. Leach delves into the lives of three girls who meet at a boarding school for troubled teens. Eight years later, they’re all dead. Through her deeply personal journey, Samantha tries to understand why her childhood best friend, Elissa, met a tragic fate in the Troubled Teen Industry. This nonfiction masterpiece, hailed by numerous media outlets, reveals the secret lives of young suburban women in a chilling and captivating narrative.
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult
If I’m including a book published in late 2022 on a summer reading list, you know it has to be good. This New York Times bestseller and People’s “Book of the Week” is a gripping collaboration between two bestselling authors, weaving Olivia and Lily’s journeys into a provocative exploration of love and acceptance. Follow Olivia as she starts over in her sleepy hometown. When tragedy strikes, Olivia must confront hidden secrets and a son who may be more like his father than she ever imagined. (If you’ve got an ex, you already know.)
The Daydreams by Laura Hankin
Step into the glitzy world of the once-beloved teen show, The Daydreams, in this deliciously entertaining novel. Thirteen years after their scandalous flameout, the stars are forced to reunite for a last chance at redemption or utter destruction. With fans demanding a reunion special, old secrets resurface, sparking forgiveness, revenge and the possibility of rekindled love. Brace yourself for a wild ride of drama, romance and shocking revelations as the ratings soar and the truth unfolds in this unforgettable reunion tale.
The True Love Experiment by Christina Lauren
Sparks are going to fly as a romance writer and a documentary filmmaker team up to create the ultimate love story for a reality TV show. But, keeping their own chemistry in check proves challenging as they navigate swoon-worthy moments and unexpected feelings. From the bestselling authors of “The Soulmate Equation” and “The Unhoneymooners,” this delightful tale is packed with laughs, tears and steamy scenes that will leave you utterly captivated.
Too Late by Colleen Hoover
Jump aboard the CoHo (that’s book lovers’ shorthand for author Colleen Hoover) train in this heart-pounding ride of obsession and dangerous love. From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of “Verity” (IYKYK), comes a psychological suspense novel that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Sloan finds herself entangled with the alluring and notorious drug trafficker, Asa Jackson, becoming emotionally and economically reliant on him. But, when an undercover DEA agent enters the scene, their attraction sparks a deadly game of cat and mouse.
The Half Moon by Mary Beth Keane
If your own complicated relationships and family ties aren’t enough, dive into the complexities of marriage, family and longing in this absorbing novel by the bestselling author of “Ask Again, Yes.” Malcolm, a charming bartender, dreams of owning the Half Moon, but struggles to keep it afloat. Meanwhile, his confident wife, Jess, faces the possibility of not becoming a mother. As shocking news and a missing patron rock their small town during a blizzard, Mary Beth Keane’s insightful tale explores midlife, forgiveness, small-town living, and the meaning of family.
Zero Days by Ruth Ware
Heart-pounding thrillers that will leave me on the edge of my seat are totally my jam. Ruth Ware, the “new Agatha Christie,” delivers an adrenaline-fueled tale of a woman racing against time to clear her name and find her husband’s murderer. Jack and her husband, Gabe, are the best in the business of breaking into buildings and hacking security systems. But when a routine job goes wrong and Gabe is found dead, the police suspect Jack. Now on the run and with limited options, Jack must uncover the truth before the real killer catches up to her.
Drowning by T.J. Newman
Just clear your weekend now because you won’t be able to put this one down. T. J. Newman, the New York Times bestselling author, delivers a heart-stopping tale about a commercial jetliner that crashes into the ocean, trapping passengers inside as it sinks to the bottom. Engineer Will Kent and his daughter Shannon fight for their lives, but their only hope lies with an elite rescue team on the surface, led by Shannon’s mother and Will’s soon-to-be ex-wife. Would you save your ex-husband? (Don’t answer that.)
The Three Of Us by Ore Agbaje-Williams
Prepare for a wickedly sharp domestic comedy of manners in “The Three of Us,” a Belletrist Book Club Pick. Tensions between a wife, her husband and her snarky best friend reach a breaking point over the course of one day. As confessions are made, loyalties are tested and a carefully constructed dance of relationships unravels into chaos. Told from three perspectives, this subversive and mesmerizing triptych delves into cultural truths, defiance and the fine line between compromise and betrayal in the name of love.
Things I Wish I Told My Mother by Susan Patterson and Susan DiLallo
Looking for a good mother-daughter read? Embark on a heartwarming journey with “Things I Wish I Told My Mother.” A mother and daughter vacation in Paris, unraveling a lifetime of secrets and hopes, with a Pattersonian twist at the end! Laurie, the artist with a worn beige duffel bag, surprises her elegant perfectionist mother, “Dr. Liz,” with a dream vacation that ignites unexpected sparks. This touching and captivating novel will make you wish it never ends, celebrating the unique bond between mothers and daughters.
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Family, love and self-discovery are on the menu in Ann Patchett’s exquisite novel, “Tom Lake.” In an orchard in northern Michigan, Lara’s daughters implore her to share the tale of Peter Duke, a renowned actor she once loved. As Lara delves into her past, her daughters confront their own lives and relationship with their mother, reevaluating everything they thought they knew. Patchett weaves a captivating narrative of youthful love, married love, and the profound impact of the past on the present.
Strange Sally Diamond by Liz Nugent
I’m just about finished with this one and I can’t even put into words how I feel about it, but here’s trying: Step into a twisted world of mystery and intrigue in the internationally bestselling author’s latest novel, “Strange Sally Diamond.” A recluse, Sally finds herself at the center of attention after a shocking act and a sinister voice from her forgotten past. As she unravels the horrors of her childhood, she navigates new friendships and unexpected truths. But, a man from afar calls her Mary, and her neighbor’s obsession raises questions about trust in this addictive and bold thriller.
Ink Blood Sister Scribe by Emma Törzs
You’ll be enchanted by this spellbinding debut, also a Good Morning America Book Club Pick. In this tale of magic and mystery, two estranged half-sisters, Joanna and Esther, must reunite to safeguard their family’s collection of ancient and rare magical books. As they delve into a world of secrets and dangerous power, they’ll uncover a legacy that spans centuries and continents. Combining elements of “Ninth House” and “The Magicians,” this debut introduces a new voice in speculative fiction.
The Beach At Summerly by Beatriz Williams
Secrets! Intrigue! Espionage! In this ravishing summer read from bestselling author Beatriz Williams, you get all of that and more. Set in mid-century New England, this book takes you to idyllic Winthrop Island, where Emilia Winthrop finds herself drawn into a tangled web of romance, spies and Cold War tension. With rich historical detail and gripping suspense, Williams weaves a tale of love, sacrifice and redemption that will keep you captivated until the very last page.
Happy Place by Emily Henry
In this smart and sparkling summer read from Emily Henry, “Happy Place” is a delightful romp that will keep you hooked until the very end. Harriet and Wyn, the perfect couple turned exes, must navigate a weeklong vacation with their oblivious friends. As they pretend to be in love, the Maine cottage becomes a stage for their charade, leading to hilarious antics and heartfelt moments. It’s a hearty helping of romantic comedy while you work on your tan.
All-Night Pharmacy by Ruth Madievsky
In “All-Night Pharmacy,” Ruth Madievsky crafts a feverish LA novel that grips like a Lynchian dream. A young woman’s life unravels after a night of pills and passion with her older sister, Debbie, who vanishes soon after. As she delves deeper into a toxic world of pills and mysticism, a mysterious figure named Sasha claims to be her spiritual guide. In a pulsing narrative akin to neon lights, this intoxicating tale explores identity, sobriety and the haunting search for a lost sister.
The Housekeepers by Alex Hay
In the shadows of London’s grandest ball, a group of audacious women plot a daring heist against Mayfair society. Led by the enigmatic Mrs. King, they aim to expose dark secrets hidden behind the glittering façade of wealth and power. In this captivating historical novel of revenge, power and class, the women downstairs challenge the norms of their time and embark on a thrilling adventure that will leave you cheering for grand larceny and the truth.
Loot by Tania James
A sweeping historical heist, you say? Try Loot, a mesmerizing world of an eighteenth-century hero’s quest, a love story and an exuberant heist adventure rolled into one. Follow Abbas, a gifted woodcarver, as he builds a giant tiger automaton for Tipu Sultan, only to witness the ravages of war across India and Europe. This wildly inventive tale, expertly plotted and deeply affecting, traces the legacy of colonialism, emigration and displacement across continents and 50 years, captivating readers with its irresistible storytelling.
Bogie & Bacall by William J. Mann
If you’re mesmerized by Hollywood’s golden era you’re going to love “Bogie & Bacall”, a celebration of the legendary love story between Lauren Bacall and Humphrey Bogart. From their early years to their enduring romance, William Mann delves deep into the complexities of their relationship, capturing the challenges and contradictions they faced. With entertaining details and new insights, this comprehensive biography paints a vivid portrait of the great American love story. Who doesn’t want that at the beach?!
The Guest by Emma Cline
In the mesmerizing world of “The Guest”, Emma Cline weaves a tale of deception and desire. As summer fades on Long Island, a young woman finds herself cast out and adrift. Armed with a keen understanding of human desires, she navigates a rarefied world where she doesn’t belong. With a tenuous grasp on morality, she leaves a trail of destruction in her wake. Taut and propulsive, this spellbinding novel will linger in your thoughts long after the last page is turned.
River Sing Me Home by Eleanor Shearer
In this heart-rending tale of strength and resilience, a mother embarks on an extraordinary journey across the Caribbean to reunite her stolen family. As the Emancipation Act offers a glimmer of hope, Rachel knows that true freedom lies in finding her children. Through perilous jungles and treacherous waters, she searches for the five souls torn from her. A celebration of motherhood and female fortitude, this powerful novel will leave you moved and inspired.
Crook Manifesto by Colson Whitehead
In this dazzling, darkly funny novel, Colson Whitehead paints a kaleidoscopic portrait of 1970s New York City, with its seedy glory and chaotic charm. Amidst a city on the brink of collapse, furniture store owner Ray Carney tries to stay out of trouble, but old connections and new opportunities pull him back into the world of crime. With a cast of colorful characters and a city burning around them, this is a powerful and hugely entertaining saga of family, friendship and survival.
The Block Party by Jamie Day
Think of this book as the juiciest gossip sesh you’ve ever had. Welcome to Alton Road, where neighbors hide dark secrets and betrayal lurks around every corner. As the annual summer block party approaches, a murder shocks the tight-knit community, and the web of intrigue goes deeper than anyone could have imagined. In this wickedly fun and addictive thriller, friendships crumble, alliances shift and everyone becomes a suspect … maybe even you.
Symphony Of Secrets by Brendan Slocumb
In a symphony of suspense and musical intrigue, music professor Bern Hendricks unravels a haunting mystery that could rewrite history. Did the legendary American composer Frederick Delaney steal his most iconic works from a forgotten prodigy named Josephine Reed, a Black Jazz Age genius? (Gasp!) As Bern and his tech-savvy ally Eboni delve deeper, they must confront a powerful organization determined to keep the truth hidden. (Double gasp!)
The Bandit Queens by Parini Shroff
Need help getting rid of your husband? *cough cough* “Bandit Queens” isn’t a handbook per se, but it’s a great ride — and read — nonetheless. In a village where she’s infamous for her “self-made” widow status, Geeta’s life takes an unexpected turn when other women seek her unique talents for getting rid of their husbands. But as requests escalate, Geeta must navigate the perilous path of her dangerous reputation.
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang
In R.F. Kuang’s gripping and darkly humorous novel, “Yellowface”, bestselling author Juniper Song isn’t who she claims to be. When she steals the manuscript of her deceased rival, Athena Liu, she takes on a new identity and basks in newfound success. But as her lies pile up, the weight of the truth threatens to crush her. Kuang’s timely and sharp exploration of diversity, cultural appropriation and the perils of social media will keep you captivated until the shocking end.
The Stolen Coast by Dwyer Murphy
In this Casablanca-infused heist novel, Dwyer Murphy weaves the thrilling tale of Jack, a polished lawyer who secretly ferries fugitives in a sleepy coastal Massachusetts town. When his former flame, Elena, returns with a daring plan to intercept millions of dollars worth of diamonds, Jack’s routine life takes an unexpected turn. It’s a fast-paced page-turner, perfect for a summer escape filled with twists and intrigue.
Big Gay Wedding by Byron Lane
In this unapologetically proud, loud, and hilarious novel, Barnett Durang is about to have the biggest, gayest wedding his small Louisiana town has ever seen. His widowed mother knows he’s gay, but she doesn’t know about the secret wedding being planned at her farm. With forces both within the family and the town opposing the union, this heartwarming tale explores the power of family and a mother’s unconditional love for her son. Grab the tissues!
My Murder by Katie Williams
In this darkly comic and clever twist on the classic thriller, Lou is brought back to life after being murdered by a serial killer. Now she must not only care for her child, love her husband and work her job but also solve the murder that took her life. (A woman’s work is never done.) As she re-adapts to her old routines and connects with other female victims, she discovers disturbing questions that challenge her trust in those around her.