This summer has been unusually hot, and our recommendation for escaping the heat is to
relax with a good book. Whether you pack your tote bag for the beach, seek refuge in an
air-conditioned library, or simply enjoy reading at home, we have a selection of new
releases chosen by independent booksellers from around the country.
If you enjoy beach reads with a touch of Wes Anderson-esque charm, we have the perfect
pick for you. For those looking for something more intense, there’s a thriller set in a
summer camp in the Adirondacks. And if you crave a bit of magic, dive into a mythological
novel set in precolonial Africa. Whatever your reading preference, according to Electric
Literature, you’ll discover the ideal book for those bright summer days right here.
Holy City by Henry Wise, June 4th ‘This captivating thriller takes place in Southside
Virginia and exposes the harsh reality of lingering racism and prejudice in small towns
known for tobacco and peanuts. What appears to be a simple story of a white sheriff
arresting a Black suspect for murder unfolds into a complex narrative where innocence
and guilt are blurred. Crossing political, generational, and cultural boundaries, this tightly
woven story is full of unexpected twists until the very end. A perfect read for a scorching
summer day.’ —Doloris Vest, Book No Further, Roanoke, Virginia
The Garden Against Time by Olivia Laing, June 25th ‘In The Garden Against Time,
Laing delves into historical and theoretical paradises, uncovering the elusive and perilous
dream of Eden. This book is a utopian retreat, a sanctuary of boundless delights.
Witnessing Laing’s evolution as a writer is a privilege; she could tackle any subject and it
would be a must-read. I hold her work dear and recommend it to all.’ —Lorenzo Gerena,
P&T Knitwear, New York, New York
Honey by Isabel Banta, June 25th ‘I absolutely adored this book! It immerses readers in
the dramatic world of late ’90s/early ’00s pop stars, delivering a tale of love and
competition. Banta’s exquisite writing style and captivating storytelling, along with her
portrayal of women uplifting each other, make this book exceptional. This reimagined
story of potentially real events is moving and unforgettable.’ —Andi Richardson, Fountain
Bookstore, Richmond, Virginia
Bear by Julia Phillips, June 25th ‘Bear is a remarkable tale about the significance we
assign to symbols, the selective nature of love, and the lies we tell ourselves to endure.
Enigmatic and suspenseful, this book showcases Phillips’ exceptional writing prowess,
with superb pacing, character growth, and vivid descriptions of the natural world. Nature
lovers, get ready to be fascinated and amazed.’ —Frances Metzger, Country Bookshelf,
Bozeman, Montana
Hombrecito by Santiago Jose Sanchez, June 25th ‘Hombrecito tells the story of
Santiago’s journey from Colombia to Miami to New York, exploring themes of home,
immigration, queerness, and growing up. Sanchez’s prose is eloquent, delving deep into
the characters’ emotions. This debut novel promises a bright future for the author.’ —Mari
Guzman, Politics and Prose Bookstore, Washington D.C.
Masquerade by O.O. Sangoyomi, July 2nd ‘Taking place in pre-colonial Africa,
Masquerade loosely follows the myth of Persephone and Hades. The protagonist, Òdòdó,
defies societal labels as she becomes entangled with a warrior king. Full of political
intrigue akin to Game of Thrones, this novel challenges traditional historical narratives.
Òdòdó is a captivating character, and Sangoyomi’s work shows great promise.’ —Drew
Broussard, The Golden Notebook, Woodstock, New York
Evenings and Weekends by Oisin McKenna, July 2nd ‘Evenings & Weekends skillfully
weaves together the lives of four individuals in London over a tumultuous summer
weekend. This book caters to lovers of intricate character dynamics and hidden truths.’ —
Kassie King, The Novel Neighbor, St. Louis, Missouri
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore, July 2nd ‘A gripping narrative spanning multiple
eras, The God of the Woods centers around missing children, their relatives, and privileged
camp attendees. The sophisticated narrative jumps between the 1950s, 1975, and the day
of the final investigation. Investigator Lupstack shines as a memorable character, leaving
readers eager for more. This book is a captivating page-turner.’ —Joanne Berg, Mystery to
Me, Madison, Wisconsin
More, Please by Emma Specter, July 9th ‘In today’s body image-conscious society,
More, Please offers a refreshing perspective. Emma Specter, known for her work in Vogue,
shares a personal and well-researched story of her battle with binge-eating disorder and
acceptance of her body. This book is essential reading for those interested in body
positivity.’ —Aatia, Books Are Magic, Brooklyn, New York
The Heart in Winter by Kevin Barry, July 9th ‘Kevin Barry’s The Heart in Winter is a
tale of forbidden love set in a Montana mining town in the late 19th century. Tom Rourke,
an Irish immigrant, finds himself entangled with another man’s wife, leading to a
captivating outlaw romance. Barry’s witty writing and vivid depiction of the American
West create a compelling narrative.’ —Camille Thornton, The Bookshop in Nashville,
Tennessee
This scorching summer is perfect for escaping into a great book, whether you’re at the beach, a library, or your favorite reading spot. Our curated list from indie booksellers across the country offers a diverse selection, from suspenseful thrillers and heartfelt coming-of-age stories to mythologically inspired novels and thought-provoking reads on body politics. Whatever your literary taste, you’ll find the perfect book to make your sunny days even brighter. Happy reading!
