The summer vibes are strong this year, and everyone’s looking for a way to have the perfect summer. And if you need some accompaniment on your upcoming beach days or lazy vacations, we have the perfect recommendations. Here are some of the most popular summer releases to read while you catch some rays. Celebrate the summer solstice with the perfect new summer release!
1. Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan: Steamy Romance for the Summer
Just released at the start of June, Annabel Monaghan’s Same Time Next Summer has already become a romantic hit. Same Time Next Summer follows Sam’s summer vacation to her family’s Long Island beach house. And while she normally dreads these vacations, she’ll be spending it with her fiancé Jack. Which was supposed to make things easier, until she comes across her old lover, Wyatt, living right next door. Suddenly a summer vacation becomes a summer love triangle, and Sam must make a tough choice.
For readers who want a summer romance, this is the perfect story to pick up to celebrate the summer solstice.
2. Pageboy: A Memoir by Elliot Page: A Memoir for Summer Solstice Soul-Searching
If you’re looking for a fresh new memoir for your summer reading list, Elliot Page just released Pageboy: A Memoir. The memoir follows his life and the struggles of navigating Hollywood as someone who’s both queer and trans. Elliot’s story is certain to captivate readers and help members of the LGBTQ+ group find reassurance and community.
3. Where Echoes Die by Courtney Gould: A Mystery That’ll Give You Chills Even in the Summer Heat
For mystery lovers, Courtney Gould’s Where Echoes Die released on June 20th. Two sisters, Beck and Riley, travel to Arizona in search of answers after receiving a mysterious letter from their dead mom. If summer vacation for you means dealing with a difficult family, then escaping into this thriller would be perfect. With themes of mother-daughter relationships, and sibling drama, celebrate the summer solstice with a summer release that will keep you guessing.
4. And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong: A Fantasy to Bring Magic to the Summer Solstice
When you need to bring a little magic to your summer, check out And Break the Pretty Kings. This fantasy novel is steeped in Korean myths and legends, the perfect high-stakes fantasy with an intriguing world to get lost in. As it follows the story of Mirae, the young woman who discovers her magical powers by destroying her coronation. Now equipped with curious powers, and on the hunt to save her queendom before war, Mirae is the perfect protagonist. With powerful female heroines and intricate fantasy politics, it’s sure to be the perfect book for your summer solstice.
5. The First Bright Thing by J.R. Dawson: History to Keep You Learning This Summer
For history lovers, J.R. Dawson’s The First Bright Thing is the book to pack for your summer vacation. This historical fantasy follows Rin, the ringmaster, and her magical circus troupe called Sparks. Taking place right after World War I, this historical fantasy has just the right amount of historical context mixed with magical moments.
Looking for more fresh releases this summer? Check out these summer cookbook recommendations from us here at Bookstr.