It’s summertime and, I don’t know about you guys, but I am here for all things cute and contemporary. Once again, July is gifting readers to a slew of exciting novels that are guaranteed to either sweep you off your feet or be unapologetically brutal. Here are six books you need to keep an eye out for this July.

Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim (6th)

Forbidden magic, a brother turned into cranes, and a plot to overthrow a kingdom. You can see why this book is one the most anticipated list of many readers. There’s something so engaging about following a character that has everything to lose. It backs them into a corner where they can either flourish or flounder. I’m interested in seeing how Shiori comes to embrace her magic, trust the man she was betrothed to marry, and save her brother and kindom as well.

The Devil and the Dark Water by Stuart Turton (6th)

Part historical. Part thriller. Part mystery. Murder on the high seas and a potential demon targeting the victims. There’s a lot of intrigue with this book. One that will surely keep readers at the edge of their seats. Hopefully, all of these elements will come together and create a hauntingly atmospheric tale.

XOXO by Axie Oh (13th)

Music, Kpop, and romance. An easy must-read this summer. It’s easy to see why readers will quickly become invested in the story of cello prodigy Jenny and Kpop star Jaewoo. This story is guaranteed to sweep you off your feet and make you crack open your Kpop playlists.

It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey (13th)

A wild child Hollywood socialite meets a grumpy, bearded sea captain with undeniable chemistry in a small town so far removed from the glamorous lifestyle she’s so long thrived in. Talk about a match made in sizzling heaven. Beyond the romance, this book has a lot of potential for character growth as Piper reconnects with her past and memories of her late father come crawling back to the surface. Definitely, one to watch out for this summer.

She Who Became the Sun by Shelley Parker-Chan (20th)

Easily the must-read fantasy debut of the year, She Who Became the Sun is the talk of the blogosphere. Who wouldn’t want to read about the “lyrical reimagining of the rise of the founding emperor of the Ming Dynasty.” Classing the book as a Mulan meets The Song of Achilles novel is a bold move, but one that I’m positive will live up to the hype. I can already sense that this book will be an unforgiving tale that will put readers through the wringer.

Isn’t It Bromantic (Bromance Book Club, #4) by Lyssa Kay Adams (20th)

This reader might just be the only one that has yet to pick up one of the Bromance Book Club novels. I will get to them eventually, that I promise. Isn’t It Bromantic seems to tick every box in the romance department. Friends to lovers and a slow-burn relationship are two of my weaknesses. Add in a hockey player and a messy past and, you’ve got yourself one hell of a story.

What’s your most anticipated release?
Are you excited to read any of these books?
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