Summer is HERE and we are ready to read! We’re thrilled to announce our top 5 Fresh Book Selects to read this summer!
We picked these 5 books because they’re ideal beach and pool reads…and rainy summer day reads! We highly recommend grabbing an iced coffee, snagging the books below, and escaping into new worlds this summer.
Top 5 Fresh Book Selects to read this summer:
One Last Word by Suzanne Park
I am Yours, A Shared Memoir by Reema Zaman
Summer Breakdown by Colleen Temple
Black Widow by Leslie Gray Streeter
But How Are You, Really by Ella Dawson






More about our must-read books of the summer…
Black Widow: A Sad-Funny Journey Through Grief for People Who Normally Avoid Books with Words Like Journey in the Title by Leslie Gray Streeter
Leslie is thrown into widowhood after her husband's sudden death. Struggling with grief and societal expectations, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. Black Widow explores the complexities of grief, mixed-race families, and starting over. With humor and heart, Leslie grapples with loss, faith, and the future as a single mother. This is a perfect summer read for its relatable telling of the human experience and honest portrayal of navigating life's unexpected turns. It's a story that will make you laugh, cry, and celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.
But How Are You, Really by Ella Dawson
Charlotte Thorne dreads her five-year college reunion. Her career is faltering, her art is neglected, and she's lost touch with her friends. Forced to attend by her boss, she's thrown back into a whirlwind of nostalgia - dorm life, late-night parties, and her old flame, Reece Krueger. Determined to have a carefree weekend, Charlotte dodges questions, ignores work messages, and tries to bury the reason she ghosted Reece. But can she truly outrun her past and find a fresh start in just three days? This is the perfect summer read! It's a lighthearted escape filled with second chances, college memories, and the thrill of reconnecting with old friends (and maybe even rekindling an old flame). With its fast pace and relatable characters, you'll be cheering Charlotte on as she navigates a weekend of laughter, self-discovery, and maybe even a little romance.
One Last Word by Suzanne Park
Sara Chae's app, One Last Word, sends messages after death... except a drunken night uploads embarrassing confessions to her mom, ex-best friend, and high school crush, Harry Shim. Now, accepted into a mentorship program, she's shocked to discover her mentor is none other than Harry himself. As past wounds resurface and hilarious chaos unfolds, Sara must confront her past and navigate a new path, both professionally and personally. This is a hilarious and heartwarming summer read! With laugh-out-loud moments, second chances, and a touch of romance, it's the perfect escape to dive into while soaking up the sun.
I am Yours, A Shared Memoir by Reema Zaman
Reema Zaman's powerful memoir, I Am Yours, is a chronicle of her fight to reclaim her voice. Silenced by societal expectations and personal struggles, Reema embarks on a journey of self-discovery, defying limitations to find her place in the world. This lyrical exploration of womanhood is a call to action, urging all to find their voice and create a space for authentic connection. I Am Yours is a powerful and inspiring choice for summer reading. It's a moving testament to the human spirit's resilience, offering a message of hope and empowerment that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Summer Breakdown by Colleen Temple
Burned-out mom Sabrina reluctantly returns home to care for her dying father. Years of family estrangement resurface, alongside the long-buried grief of her sister's death. As she navigates suffocating family dynamics and a shocking family secret, Sabrina finds solace in an unexpected place - the arms of her high school ex. Summer Breakdown is a poignant exploration of family, loss, and the courage to confront the past. With its evocative setting and raw emotions, it's a perfect summer read for anyone who has ever grappled with family baggage or the complexities of growing up.
See you tomorrow morning - happy reading!
xox
Jenny & Olivia
Are you enjoying A Fresh Start to the Day?
Here’s what you can do to continue supporting Fresh Starts!
✉️ forward this newsletter to someone who would love it!
📱 follow Fresh Starts on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest.
📸 Screenshot your favorite part of this email and share it on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag @freshstartsregistry so that we can share!
Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, Fresh Starts Registry earns a commission if you make a purchase. Thank you for always supporting Fresh Starts so that we can support people making brave decisions!