Reading Ahead: July 2012, part 1

Publishers are wise to the ways of readers: they know that we tend to read more in the summer, and they plan releases by our favorite authors accordingly.  Here are some of the titles you can look forward to seeing on the shelves in July.

I, Michael Bennett, by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge

Shadow of Night, by Deborah Harkness

Friends Forever, by Danielle Steel

Broken Harbor, by Tana French

Fireproof, by Alex Kava

Backfire, by Catherine Coulter

Criminal, by Karin Slaughter

The After Wife, by Gigi Levangie Grazer

Where We Belong, by Emily Giffin

Now, of course, come the decisions.  What do you want to read?  If you're looking for something a little lighter to bring to the beach, I'd suggest the new Emily Giffin, Where We Belong.  Secret pasts, reconnecting with family and old flames, the threat of a carefully built life tumbling to pieces--juicy and engrossing!  

If you're more in the mood for a thriller to keep you engrossed while your kids are splashing in the pool for endless hours, or to keep you entertained on a sultry summer afternoon, I'd recommend Criminal, by Karin Slaughter.  Murder, secrets that span generations, loyalty put to the ultimate test.  Yes, please!

Finally, you know what I'm eager to get my hands on, since I've been mentioning it for nearly a year, right?  That would be Shadow of Night, by Deborah Harkness, sequel to last year's library staff favorite, A Discovery of Witches.  If you're open to a little paranormal with your romance, and a little fantasy with your history, I highly recommend this duo!

I'll be back Thursday with the second installment of your summer reading list!