72 of This Summer’s Hottest New Mysteries & Thrillers
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72 of Summer’s Hottest New Mysteries & Thrillers
July alone is stacked with a ton of mystery & thriller releases—I was just trying to wrangle that list into a shareable “here’s what’s coming out this month”—so imagine how many great books are coming out over the three months of summer! Goodreads has a bunch for you to check out: 72 of Summer’s Hottest New Mysteries & Thrillers.
Summery New Historical Fiction for June
These new historical fiction books from June 2025 cover a wonderfully wide range of places, time periods, and perspectives. From World War II Hong Kong and post-war 1940s Los Angeles to Iran before, during, and after the 1979 revolution. Each book transports us to a different time and place, bringing history to life as only historical fiction can. So take a break from school or work—or this article—and go relax with some great new historical fiction books for summer.
10 New Nonfiction Book Releases of June 2025
As a fan of true stories, summer reading for me means I’m ready for the giant tomes and poetic memoirs. And June delivers! It’s full of incredible new releases, with everything a nonfiction girlie could ever want. But where to begin? I could start with Catherine Lacey’s new memoir, which is definitely near the top of my list. Or I could read a book about Toni Morrison’s work at Random House (yes, please!).
This Appalachian Historical Fiction Has a Forgotten Kingdom in North Carolina
Happy Land is inspired by the very real kingdom of Happy Land that used to be located in the mountains of North Carolina. In sections alternating with Nikki’s perspective, we meet her ancestor, Luella, a formerly enslaved woman, who left Spartanburg County, South Carolina, with her community looking for a new place to call home after white people terrorized the local Black residents. Once in North Carolina, they established the Kingdom of Happy Land, naming Luella’s husband as king. But after her husband has an accident, Luella finds herself ruling alone.
A Summer-y of This June’s New Comics and Graphic Novels
Whether you plan to read outside in that summer sunshine or hide inside from the extreme weather, each and every one of these comics will be the perfect companion. I hope you’ll be able to take some time off to really enjoy the latest additions to your library or, if not, that you at least get to take your dog to the office as you hurry through the work day in anticipation of cracking open one of these great new stories once you get home.
Your Favorite Queer Authors’ Favorite Queer Books
It’s Pride month, which is the perfect excuse to buy and read a bunch of queer books. One method I really enjoy for finding new books is to take the recommendations of my favorite authors. Carmen Maria Machado hasn’t led me astray yet. Unfortunately, I don’t have these authors on speed dial, but luckily, they usually have shared their recommendations publicly.
Cozy and Comforting Queer Graphic Novels
If, like me, you love cozy queer graphic novels, I have some great recommendations for you today. Each of these books is a gem, full of beautiful illustrations, friendships, love, families both biological and found, and, again and again, the message that I think we all need to be reminded of from time to time: You are enough and you are loved just the way you are.
Win $250 to Spend at Powell’s Books!
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