As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, it is clear that summer is on the way. School ends, leaving many students with open schedules and free time. Whether you are a fan of mystery, romance, thriller, science fiction, or historical fiction, this summer’s literary lineup and upcoming books have something to satisfy every reader and provide an activity for those long summer days.
“The Celebrants” by Steven Rowley
“The Celebrants” is a story following a group of five close-knit college friends as they navigate different stages of life after their college years and into adulthood. The book switches perspectives from person to person, and it goes between their time in college to their current life and their friends’ reunions. It explores the themes of love and friendship, as well as death and healing, as the friends must cope with a loss. Rowley’s writing is vivid, and each character depicted seems authentic and relatable, which helps portray those themes.
“Crook Manifesto” by Colson Whitehead
“Crook Manifesto” takes place in Harlem during the 1970s and is a sequel to Whitehead’s book, Harlem Shuffle, which follows Ray Carney, who makes a living off of reselling stolen items. “Crook Manifesto” follows a retired Ray several years later, showing perspectives from 1971, 1973, and 1976.
Whitehead, a two-time Pulitzer Prize winner, uses his writing skills to portray captivating characters and a compelling plot, showcasing his knack for storytelling.
“Hello Stranger” by Catherine Center
In “Hello Stranger,” Catherine Center introduces us to Sadie, a portrait artist whose life changes unexpectedly when she receives brain surgery. When she awakes, she realizes she can no longer recognize faces. It is a unique love story as Sadie begins to fall in love with not one but two men whose faces she can not remember.
“Hello, Stranger” is a heartfelt and engaging rom-com that showcases Center’s storytelling skills to help show the character’s development and growth.
“All the Sinners Bleed” by S.A. Cosby
S.A. Cosby’s latest thriller, “All the Sinners Bleed,” is set in a rural, small town in Virginia. The story follows the main protagonist, Titus Crown, a former FBI agent now working as a sheriff.
In “All the Sinners Bleed,” Cosby demonstrates his skill in crime fiction. The book’s quick pace, well-developed characters, and memorable plot highlight Cosby’s talent for crafting compelling stories. After finishing “All the Sinners Bleed,” its intriguing twists and thought-provoking concepts stay with you, keeping you engaged.
“Immortal Longings” by Chloe Gong
“Immortal Longings” is a fantasy novel inspired by the story of Shakespeare’s “Antony and Cleopatra.” In 1920s Shanghai, Gong reimagines the story around Calla Tuoleimi, a runaway princess who brings down the monarchy, and Anton Makusa, an exiled aristocrat. The two form an unexpected alliance and must work together against thousands of others in a set of games hosted by the palace. It is a tale of power and friendship that echoes the themes of Shakespeare’s works.
“Drowning” by T.J. Newman
“Drowning” is a suspenseful thriller that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. When Flight 1421 crashes into the Pacific Ocean and sinks to the bottom, the twelve remaining survivors must fight for their lives and work together to escape.
“Drowning” introduces us to new characters who are not only trying to survive but also facing their pasts and secrets. Newman skillfully develops these characters, even in tense situations, giving them depth that connects with readers. Their choices and determination make them relatable and captivating, holding our interest in what happens to them.
“Pageboy” by Elliot Page
Elliot Page’s memoir, “Pageboy,” discusses the actor’s life experiences from growing up to coming out as transgender and coming to terms with their sexuality. Page’s writing is thoughtful and invites readers to reflect on their perspectives. Their ability to discuss challenging topics like mental health and societal expectations adds depth to the memoir, emphasizing resilience and being true to oneself.
“Loot” by Tania James
“Loot” is a historical fiction novel set in the 18th century. The book follows 17-year-old Abbas, who has a talent for carving mechanical toy animals. His skills catch the attention of Tipu Sultan, who asks him to make a mechanical tiger as a gift for his son’s return from British imprisonment. However, when Abbas’s tiger is stolen as a prize of war by the British troops, Abbas must figure out how to get it back.
The book is a “spectacular tale of creativity and colonialism,” according to Publishers Weekly. James’s writing helps visualize the story and create a compelling hero’s journey.
“The First Ladies” by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
The First Ladies is a historical fiction novel about the unlikely friendship between civil rights advocate Mary McLeod Bethune and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt. Mary McLeod Bethune’s work in activism brought the attention of Eleanor Roosevelt, and the two quickly partnered up to fight for change and equal rights. The story is narrated from both viewpoints, detailing both perspectives and telling the story of the two women and their partnership.
“The Seven Year Slip” by Ashley Poston
“The Seven Year Slip” is a unique romance that combines time travel, mystery, and love. The story’s fast pace and intriguing plot hooks readers from the first page. “The Seven Year Slip” is about a publicist, Clementine, who meets a man in her late aunt’s apartment one day. He seems almost perfect, but there’s one problem: he existed seven years ago. “The Seven Year Slip” is set apart from your average romance novel by how it mixes thrilling sci-fi with a heartfelt love story.
All these books would make a great summer read or even a relaxing pastime! With a variety of different genres, there is a book for everyone.
