5 Summer 2020 Books You’ll Love

Summer 2020 has a very different feel. In all the uncertainty though, I’m taking so much comfort from the most reliable of friends – new summer fiction releases.

Fresh new stories to let yourself get lost in is exactly what’s called for. So, here are 5 books I’ve read recently and enjoyed, all published this summer:

5 Summer 2020 Books You’ll Love

/ Scenes of a Graphic Nature by Caroline O’Donoghue
Published 18th June

This unexpected gem has been one of my recent highlights. This is a sharp, funny story of a woman’s journey to discover more about her Irish roots and uncover a decades old mystery while she’s at it. Written in a snappy, contemporary style that was a joy to read.

/ Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Published 30th June

Set in 1950s Mexico (you may have guessed that from the title..) this wonderful Gothic story is a brilliant homage to the great Gothic tales that inspire it. Throw in a fiesty, feminist lead character and you have an extremely fun novel that will satisfy any fans of this genre.

/ Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers
Published 9th July

Oh my goodness, what a read! A truly captivating story of loneliness, love and the mystery of a virgin birth mixed in there too. Set in London in 1957, you’ll be instantly engaged in reporter Jean’s story. Let the delicious cover be an indication of the perfect story inside.

/ The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Published 13th August

It may sound like a paradox to say that The Midnight Library tackles serious issues – mental health and suicide – in such a hopeful and engaging way, but it really does. I finished reading this and immediately reconsidered things about the way I view certain situations. A important and wonderful read.

/ Death in her Hands by Ottessa Moshfegh
Published 27th August

A murder mystery that isn’t a murder mystery in this clever, lyrical and engrossing read from the author of My Year of Rest and Relaxation. It also features a lead character in her 70s who you can’t help but root for. If you’re looking for something a little subversive, definitely give this a try.

So there you have it! Five very different stories, all guaranteed to enrich your summer reading list. This is obviously only a tiny snapshot of the new fiction releases, so please let me know of any other summer read recommendations I need to get on my TBR!