Now that it’s officially summer, I wanted to compile a list of 10 of the best books I’ve reviewed to help you find the perfect seasonal read! Whether you’re looking for something to get you through a road trip, relax with on the beach or by the pool, or enjoy next to a crackling campfire, be sure to grab a copy of one of these.

Click the links below to read my full reviews and learn more about each one!

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1

Hidden Pictures by Jason Rekulak

This is one of the creepiest books I’ve ever come across. One summer, Mallory Quinn, an addict in recovery, is hired to babysit an adorable little boy… who has a disturbing habit of drawing terrifying pictures of an imaginary friend no one else can see. Rekulak’s chilling twist on the “creepy kid drawing creepy pictures” trope shakes the world of upper-class suburbia as Mallory unearths the dark secrets hiding in her new employer’s home. The eerie illustrations throughout make this one best read at night with a flashlight!

2

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks by Rebecca Skloot

A haunting, powerful true story of how one Black woman’s DNA was taken without her consent and went on to change the face of modern medicine. Skloot builds a relationship with Henrietta’s daughter (who barely knew her mother) and together they fight to honor Henrietta’s legacy. Her story, and the incredible impact of her cells, will leave you amazed.

3

Theme Music by T. Marie Vandelly

Forever one of my favorite books to recommend. Dixie, now in her twenties, moves back into the haunted house where her family was brutally murdered when she was just a baby. She soon realizes everything she thought she knew about the massacre is a lie – and the truth may be even more terrifying. Musical references throughout give the novel a killer soundtrack vibe.

4

The Devil’s Fortune by Amy Schisler

Few things scream “beach read” like a hidden pirate treasure. Interwoven with real history (including the history of a real Irish female pirate) this novel is set on Maryland’s beautiful Eastern Shore. If you’re craving something historical, adventurous, and just plain fun, this is it!

5

At Gettysburg by Tillie Pierce Alleman

A must-read for history buffs. This memoir by a teenage girl offers a firsthand account of the Battle of Gettysburg, which took place right in her own backyard. It’s one of the most powerful, personal Civil War stories out there, and a great companion read for any road trip through Pennsylvania’s historic battlefields.

6

The God of the Woods by Liz Moore

This brilliant mystery is set at a summer camp, where the daughter of a wealthy family vanishes overnight. As if that isn’t worrisome enough, her older brother disappeared from the same grounds years earlier. Add a local serial killer’s prison escape and multiple reported sightings of the camp’s resident ghost, and you’ve got a gripping, layered mystery full of secrets and surprises.

7

The Perfect Father by John Glatt

This true crime stunner dives into the tragic Watts family case, which captured national attention. Glatt carefully and respectfully documents the lives of Shanann, Bella, CeCe, and baby Nico – and the horrifying betrayal that shattered their world. It’s a difficult read, but important and deeply moving.

8

Piercing the Fog by Cheryl Nickle

A hidden gem set in and around North East, MD (my husband’s hometown). When Norah discovers her husband is working undercover for a secret government agency, her world turns upside down – and suddenly, she’s in just as deep as he is. A real page-turner, especially for local readers. I’m crossing my fingers for a sequel!

9

The Boy, a Dragon, and the Cave of Shadow by Christopher Guhl

A heartfelt fantasy novella perfect for DnD fans (like me and my nerdy husband). Inspired by the author’s son’s battle with cancer, this story of a young boy and his dragon companion fighting the darkness is both touching and imaginative. Great for kids and adults alike – perfect to send to camp with your little adventurer.

10

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

This eco-thriller, set on the frigid waters near Antarctica, is perfect for reading on a sweltering day when you’re dreaming of icebergs. A family preparing to leave their remote island home as it slowly disappears into the ocean discovers a mysterious woman washed ashore. Who is she? Why is she there? Are they in danger? The answers will chill you (in more ways than one).

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Whatever you choose to read this summer, I hope you enjoy it, and I’d love to hear about it in the comments! I’m always on the lookout for my next favorite read!

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