Friends, summertime is upon us at last. And even though this summer is going to look a lot different than expected, I’m still so happy it’s here. For one thing, books.

I don’t know about you, but I’m a mood reader. When I read matters almost as much as what I read. That’s why I’ve put together this quick guide to summertime reading, consisting of several of my faves from the last few years. Whether because of their setting, circumstance, or tone, I found these books to be perfect for the warmer, sunnier, more relaxed days of summer.

Each book on this list resides on my shelves, which means I’ve read it cover to cover and loved it. I’ve included here a mix of Christian fiction and mainstream. Some fall on the lighter side of the spectrum (Barefoot), some on the heavier side (Hum). A few may be grittier than appeal to some. I haven’t included trigger warnings here, but when in doubt, take a peek at other reviews, or shoot me an email and I’ll be happy to share my more detailed thoughts. They are all stories of redemption that embrace my readerly ideal of celebrating beauty amidst the brokenness.

Here’s my quick take on each book. If I’ve previously reviewed it on this blog (true for most), I’ve linked to my original post for more in-depth info.

I hope you’ll find a seasonal favorite or five on the list. Happy summer, and happy reading!

• Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagan. One of my more recent reads by a new-to-me author. I loved this novel’s strong, unique voice belonging to its delightful young narrator. The story is woven through with secrets and mysteries artfully revealed, as well as masterfully drawn characters set in an interesting time and place.
• The Memory of Water by Karen White. I had to include this backlist title by Karen White because I loved this book so much for its evocative setting, haunting themes, and lyrical writing. I count this novel as one that made me decide to write women’s fiction because of White’s thoughtful exploration of complex human relationships.
• A Long Time Gone by Karen White. Not a big surprise that a second novel by Karen White should end up on my list. Almost all of her novels, set in the sultry South, make for prime summertime reading. A Long Time Gone is an example of the sort of women’s fiction I adore. A story wise beautifully told, with a lyrical narrative threaded with mystery, suspense, and more than a dash of winsome romance. Though not what I would call a feel-good novel, it still left me feeling good, full of hope for the promise of goodness, health and happiness.
• Hum If You Don’t Know the Words by Bianca Marais. This novel swept me away with its  vibrant dual narrative. While unabashed in its descriptions of the stark brutality of the time and place, Hum is also bold in its celebration of the resiliency of the human spirit and the triumphant power of love. Particularly recommended for book clubs and fans of The Secret Life of Bees and The Help.
• Before We Were Yours by Lisa Wingate. This time-slip novel lured me in with its lovely cover and intriguing premise, then left me with a heart brimming with emotion. And in between, the author’s exquisite prose, skillful plotting, and perfect pacing kept me enthralled from first page to last. I adored it. Gripping, poignant, and flawlessly executed, Before We Were Yours is a story to keep tucked close to the heart.
• The Salt House by Lisa Duffy. From first glance, I knew this novel would be for me, and how right I was. It became my most highly recommended book for the summer of 2017. Poignant and expressive, I loved it from its first gripping line to the last. Everything about it — from tone, to setting, to unforgettable characters — pitch perfect.
• Last Ride to Graceland by Kim Wright. This is the novel I very nearly didn’t read. Graceland? Elvis? Nothing for me here…or so I thought. How glad I am that I gave it a second look because it ended up an absolute gem. Whimsical, yet possessing a certain gravitas, it explores the complexity of the mother-daughter relationship as it plumbs the depths of the human heart and celebrates the indomitable, rebounding nature of the human spirit.
• The Beautiful Daughters by Nicole Baart. A shining example of the kind of contemporary women’s fiction I love: honest and true, written with such pathos that even if you can’t relate to a particular situation…you can. The author’s writing is exquisite, and her novel is both beautiful and significant: a story that matters. Engrossing and multi-layered, The Beautiful Daughters was a book I could hardly put down.
• Barefoot Summer by Denise Hunter. Romance novels are less likely to make it onto my best-of lists, but this one does because of Denise Hunter. She manages to give her romances a little more heft than most, and this one delivers carefully crafted characters and great pacing. Plus, her knack for dialogue is top-notch. I actually liked Dancing with Fireflies even more, though I didn’t put it first on this list because it didn’t feel to me so obviously “summer.”
• Shadow Sister by Katherine Scott Jones. Yep, this one is mine. Even so, I can’t help but recommend it for the list because of its Washington vineyard setting. Here’s what Lisa Wingate, bestselling author of Before We Were Yours, had to say about it: “A story of old secrets and new beginnings, Shadow Sister explores the complexities of family, the bonds of sisterhood, and the crippling power of guilt. In Sarah, Katherine Scott Jones has created a woman struggling with her own demons but ultimately finding faith and discovering the beauty of forgiveness.”

P.S. I had so much fun putting this list together that I’m already working on a similar list for fall. Stay tuned!