Summer reading isn’t just for kids anymore! Whether you are looking for a book to relax with poolside, an audiobook to entertain you while heading on a road trip, or a tantalizing tale to enjoy at bedtime, I’ve got a list of new releases that are perfect for diving into this summer!
Below you will find my favorite books that I’ve recently read and couldn’t get enough of and even more that I can’t wait to check out. From heartfelt romantic comedies, to poignant literary fictions, and nail-biting thrillers there is a little something here for everyone.
What are you waiting for? Grab one of these standout stories and indulge in some summer fun! Happy reading!
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2025 FAVES
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I was instantly drawn into this gripping novel that weaves between a harrowing space mission and the life events leading up to it. Set in the 1980s, it follows Joan Goodwin, an aspiring astronaut hoping to be among the first women in space. As she fights for her dream, Joan also discovers herself and unexpected love. Taylor Jenkins Reid is a master storyteller, and I couldn’t put down this thought-provoking and emotionally rich love story.
One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
After a bad breakup, photographer Alice accompanies her grandmother to the summer cottage of her youth to regroup. Determined to break out of her shell, she creates a summer bucket list of all the things she wished she had done at seventeen. She never expected to meet Charlie Florek who would help her reshape her life in new and unexpected ways. Carley Fortune is quickly becoming one of my favorite romance writers. She creates the most likeable characters you can’t help but root for.
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Determined to get her big writing break, the exuberant Alice Scott tracks down the reclusive legend Margaret Ives to write her biography. Unfortunately, Pulitzer-winning author Hayden Anderson is interviewing for the same job. When Margaret invites them both for a month-long trial, secrets unravel and sparks fly. While not my favorite Emily Henry (that’s still Book Lovers or Happy Place), this charming story was a delight to read.
The Favorites by Layne Fargo
This is a gripping story that uses documentary-style narration, weaving multiple perspectives into the unbelievable tale of two ice dancers whose raw talent and scandalous relationship captivate the nation. As they attempt a shocking comeback, their story unfolds through interviews of friends, rivals, and coaches, exposing the drama behind their rise to fame
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Beth relishes her peaceful life running a farm with her husband Frank until her first love Gabriel Wolf and his son return to town stirring up old feelings. Told in alternating timelines, the story builds toward a gripping murder trial and the events that led there While I was very frustrated with many of Beth’s decisions, I found the book extremely stirring and evocative. It’s a great choice for book clubs because there is a lot to unpack and talk about.
Salt Water by Katy Hays
I loved this slow-burn thriller about an ultra-wealthy family who returns to their Capri estate each year to commemorate and conceal the mysterious death of a loved one they were once accused of killing. Full of unexpected twists, this atmospheric story pulls you right into the heart of Italy. This one was a huge hit for my book club.
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
I absolutely loved this phenomenal prequel to the Hunger Games series. I was immediately transported back to the dystopian world of Panem where the 50th annual Hunger Games is being celebrated by taking twice as many tributes to fight to the death. When a tragic series of events leads Haymitch Abernathy to become one of District 12’s tributes, he is torn from his family and girlfriend and thrown into the Capitol’s deathly arena. I loved this thrilling book so much, it made me want to go back and read the entire series again!
Say You’ll Remember Me by Abbey Jimenez
Abby Jimenez always creates books with the perfect amount of humor, emotional pull, and endearing characters. Her latest features witty social media expert Samantha and grumpy vet Xavier, who connect over a stray cat and fall into a long-distance romance complicated by Samantha’s role as caregiver to her mother with dementia. Though the story explores heavy themes, it’s ultimately a heartfelt, uplifting reminder that love can overcome any obstacle.
The Missing Half by Ashley Flowers and Alex Kiester
Ever since her older sister Kasey went missing, Nic’s life has been in a rut. When Jenna, whose sister also disappeared around the same time as Kasey, proposes teaming up to find answers, Nic reluctantly agrees. What follows is a dangerous chase full of twists, secrets, and shocking revelations. I read a lot of thrillers, and this ending truly surprised me.
BOOKS ON MY TO BE READ LIST
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
When expert hiker Valerie Gillis becomes lost in the Maine woods, she must battle both the elements and her unraveling mind to survive. As the detectives and community search for her, speculations rise on the truth behind Valerie’s disappearance. When I saw that this book is compared to God of the Woods, my favorite read from 2024, I immediately added it to my TBR list.
The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware
This follow-up novel to The Woman in Cabin 10 revisits travel-writer Lo Blacklock as she journeys around Europe in a deadly game of cat and mouse. I’m a big Ruth Ware fan and I look forward to getting swept up in her latest work.
Don’t Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
I always find Lisa Jewell’s books oddly disturbing, but incredibly captivating. In her latest novel, three women’s lives are about to be changed forever as their common connection to one man becomes dangerous.
The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick
What if you could sleep away your heartache? Herein lies the premise of The Poppy Fields where an experimental treatment can help people overcome their grief by a prolonged slumber. This same author wrote The Measure, which was one of my favorite books of 2022. I’m excited to explore what is sure to be another thought-provoking read from a gifted writer.
The Almalfi Curse by Sarah Penner
I love reading books with exotic settings and I’m excited to be whisked away to the sparkling waters of the Italian coast where Haven Ambrose searches for shipwrecked treasure only to uncover something far more sinister.
With a Vengeance Riley Sager
I’m a sucker for Riley Sager’s thrillers, so I can’t wait to check out his latest. Fueled by grief and rage, Anna Matheson sets an elaborate trap for those she believes murdered her family in 1942. She lures them onto a 13-hour train ride to confront them, but when one of them turns up dead, Anna realizes she’s not the only one on board seeking revenge.
Park Avenue by Michelle H. Lee
Junior partner Jia Song is on the rise at a top Manhattan law firm until a new case threatens everything. Tasked with untangling the scandal surrounding the wealthy and powerful Park family, she soon finds herself caught in a web of secrets and lies.
Count My Lies by Sophie Stava
Pathological liar, Sloane Caraway, uses her deceit to acquire a job as a nanny for the prestigious Lockhart family. As she grows closer to the family, she realizes she may not be the only one lying.
My Friends Fredrick Backman
I have come to appreciate Fredrick Backman’s work in recent years and now each new release is a must-read for me. I’m excited to dive into his newest novel about a woman named Louisa who searches for the inspiration behind a group of friends captured in a mysterious painting.
OLDIES, BUT GOODIES
These books may have been around for awhile, but if you haven’t read them yet, that just means they are new to you! Below are a few of my absolute favorite stories. I’ve tried to include a variety of genres, so there is a little something for everyone.
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