There's no better time than summer to get lost in a good book. Whether you're lounging by the water, enjoying a beach day, or finding peace in your favorite reading spot, the right book can transform your summer experience. If you are headed out of town or just looking for something to immerse yourself in before the summer ends, check out our recent favorites, guaranteed to make your summer days more enjoyable and memorable.
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Emma and Justin find each other when they both realize they are cursed. They are always the partner right before the spouse is discovered. Emma and Justin decide to meet and “date” so that when they break up, they are guaranteed to find their spouse immediately afterward. In true rom-com fashion, you can probably guess the ending, but the journey is fabulous, fun and heartwarming. Throw in a toxic mother, a true friendship and an endearing family, and this book will make you believe in conquering your past and finding true love.
The Spare Room by Andrea Bartz
If you’re looking for a salacious mystery, this is your book. In the midst of COVID, Kelly decides to leave her long-time boyfriend and move in with her old classmate, Sabrina, who she reconnects with over social media. Sabrina is beautiful and sexy and in a perfect marriage with Nathan. Kelly is immediately swept into their seemingly perfect lives. However, nothing is ever what it seems. A seductive page turner.
Sandwich by Catherine Newman
This sweet book will have you laughing and crying, sometimes simultaneously. For years, Rocky’s favorite week of the summer has been her family’s trip to Cape Cod. The week is awash in memories and long-standing traditions. This summer Rocky finds herself stuck between her grown children and her elderly parents. A relatable story about letting your children go while suddenly having to care for your aging parents that will have you laughing out loud and grabbing for a tissue at the same time.
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
If you’re looking for a summer read with a little more depth, this genre-crossing novel is one you won’t be able to put down. Patch, a young teen, is infatuated with Misty. Following her one afternoon, Patch is able to prevent her abduction, saving Misty and sacrificing himself. When Patch is taken captive and held in a dark room, he meets Grace, another child in captivity. Meanwhile, his best friend, Saint, is relentless in looking for him, refusing to listen to the authorities telling her Patch is gone. Patch is a survivor in every sense of the word. Despite sounding dark and foreboding, this book is full of light and shines light on the incredible power of true friendship. A must read!