Summer is the perfect time to dive into new literary adventures, whether you’re lounging by the pool, taking a lazy beach day, or enjoying a quiet evening on the porch. This year, a slew of exciting new releases promises to make your summer reading list unforgettable. Here are few new books you’ll want to add to your reading roster:
“The Last Devil to Die” by Richard Osman
The beloved members of the Thursday Murder Club are back in this highly anticipated sequel. Richard Osman’s clever blend of mystery and humor continues as the amateur sleuths find themselves in a thrilling new case. If you enjoyed the charm and wit of the first book, this one is sure to captivate you.
“Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano
Following the success of her bestselling novel “Dear Edward,” Napolitano offers a new story of family, love, and resilience. “Hello Beautiful” delves into the lives of a close-knit family in Chicago, exploring themes of identity, connection, and the power of relationships.
“The Wishing Game” by Meg Shaffer
For fans of whimsical and heartwarming tales, this novel is a must-read. It tells the story of a young girl who dreams of becoming a magician’s apprentice and the magical journey she embarks on. It’s a story about hope, dreams, and the magic of believing in oneself.
“Red Clocks” by Leni Zumas
In this dystopian novel set in an alternate version of America, reproductive rights are heavily restricted. Through the intertwined stories of five women, Zumas explores themes of freedom, choice, and resilience. This thought-provoking read is perfect for those interested in contemporary social issues.
“The God of Endings” by Jacqueline Holland
This debut novel blends gothic horror and literary fiction, following a woman cursed with immortality who must confront her past and seek redemption. It’s a compelling exploration of life, death, and the long shadows of history.
“Fourteen Hills” by Daniel Alarcon
Alarcon’s latest novel offers a deep dive into the lives of a family torn apart by political unrest in South America. With richly drawn characters and a gripping narrative, it’s a powerful story about the impact of political upheaval on personal lives.
“The Art of Losing” by Alice Zeniter
This novel spans generations and continents, exploring the legacy of war and displacement through the eyes of a young woman discovering her family’s past. Zeniter’s lyrical prose and evocative storytelling make this a standout read.
“The Atlas Paradox” by Olivie Blake
If you’re a fan of magical academia and intricate world-building, this sequel to “The Atlas Six” will be a treat. The story continues with dark secrets and complex characters, making it a gripping follow-up to the first book.
“Exiles” by Jane Harper
Harper’s latest mystery, set in the picturesque but perilous Australian landscape, features a detective unraveling the threads of a complex disappearance case. As always, Harper’s atmospheric writing and intricate plotting make this a must-read for mystery enthusiasts.
“The Island” by Adrian McKinty
Known for his gripping thrillers, McKinty’s newest novel is set on a remote island where a family vacation turns into a nightmare. With suspenseful twists and a gripping narrative, this book will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Whether you’re jet-setting overseas, enjoying a staycation, or simply finding some extra downtime, summer is an ideal time to delve into a new novel. What better way to escape the heat than by immersing yourself in a compelling narrative?
From romcoms and dramedies to thrillers and fantasy, this season’s newest releases offer something for everyone. Whether it’s a talking magpie learning about the human world, a secret pact among four best friends, or a Palestinian woman navigating her dreams, there’s a story here to captivate your imagination.
Here are The National’s top ten picks for new releases to dive into:
The Truth According to Ember by Danica Nava
After her 37th job rejection, Ember Lee Cardinal decides to bend the truth on her ethnicity to land her dream job in accounting. When a secret romance with a fellow Native American IT guy leads to blackmail, Ember must choose between keeping her lies or finally coming clean.
Release date: August 6
The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman
In this Arthurian tale, young knight Collum arrives in Camelot only to find King Arthur dead and the Round Table reduced to a quirky few. Joining forces with Nimue, Merlin’s apprentice, they embark on a quest to restore Camelot amidst chaos and a rising threat from Morgan le Fay and her army of fairies and monsters.
The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin
Four freshmen at university forge a tight bond despite their differing backgrounds. Ten years later, an act of desperation leads to unexpected consequences, and the group reunites to navigate self-discovery, forgiveness, and acceptance in their lives.
The Coin by Yasmin Zaher
A Palestinian woman’s life spirals as she chases her American dream, teaching at a school for underprivileged boys and getting entangled in a scheme involving luxury Birkin bags. As she cons her way through the city, her past catches up with her, threatening to unravel everything.
The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood
After Delphie’s death, she finds herself in the afterlife’s waiting room and meets her dream man, only to be told he’s being sent back to Earth. Offered a chance to return to life and find him within ten days, Delphie must confront her fears and vulnerabilities to reclaim her life and find her soulmate.
A Happier Life by Kristy Woodson Harvey
Switching between present-day and 1976, this novel connects two women through a family home. Keaton Smith discovers secrets in her mother’s abandoned house, while Rebecca ‘Becks’ Saint James struggles with her perfect facade. Both women must confront challenges within this historic home that holds their family’s dreams.
The Villain Edit by Laurie Devore
Romance novelist Jacqueline Matthis makes a comeback as a contestant on a high-profile reality dating show. As she navigates the spotlight and reconnects with her former fling, she discovers she’s being cast as the show’s villain. Jacqueline must balance saving her career with preserving her personal life.
What Fire Brings by Rachel Howzell Hall
Writer Bailey Meadows moves into the remote home of thriller author Jack Beckham, only to find herself on a mission to locate a missing community leader. As she uncovers dangerous secrets in the Topanga Canyon, she must race against time before the fire season and avoid becoming the next missing person.
Caledonian Road by Andrew O’Hagan
Art historian Campbell Flynn’s life unravels publicly as his worlds—art, academia, fashion, and journalism—collide. This story offers a vivid portrayal of contemporary London life through the intersecting lives around Caledonian Road.
The Axeman’s Carnival by Catherine Chidgey
Farmer’s wife Marnie saves Tama, a magpie chick who can speak, leading to an unusual relationship where Tama becomes both a confidant and a witness to Marnie’s troubled marriage. As the Axeman’s Carnival approaches, Tama’s presence blurs the lines between human and animal worlds, revealing both darkness and hope.
These new releases offer a variety of genres and themes, ensuring that there’s something for every reader to enjoy this summer. Whether you’re looking for a cozy mystery, a thought-provoking drama, or an enchanting tale, these books are sure to make your summer reading experience delightful. So grab a comfy spot, your favorite beverage, and dive into these exciting new worlds! Happy reading!