Put these five on your TBR list
What are you doing this summer?
I’ve been writing – deep into revisions on my upcoming novel (title still TBD) but also reading as much as I can so as to tackle my ever-growing TBR list. Because I’m short on time—as I’m sure you are too—I’m skipping the column this month and diving right into book recs. Usable information for you, the reader. As well as a good way for me to catch up on my book reviews!
So without further ado, here are my top 5 picks for Summer 2026 (in the order I read them, because I simply cannot play favorites where books are concerned):
Alan Opts Out by Courtney Maum. Pulling off social satire requires walking a fine line between reality and farce, and once again Maum does it perfectly. Eminently relatable characters (Vivian, in particular, resonated with me and has a lot in common with Kaya, my next protag), a timely theme, and a just-short-of-zany plot, it checked all my boxes. Smart, funny, heartwarming—I was enchanted from page one.
Kin by Tayari Jones. A beautiful story about two lifelong friends whose lives diverge then come back together again, set against the backdrop of civil rights struggles in the American South. The themes of motherhood, sisterhood, and friendship are ones I’m exploring in my new book, so it proved to be a timely read for me. Heartbreaking on so many levels, but ultimately a profound testament to the myriad ways women support each other. I could hardly put it down.
Dharma Calling by Debbie Abbot. Wow. I have to start there because this book is such a departure from what I normally read. And it’s so good! (Meaning maybe I should stretch outside my usual genre now and again?) This is the first in a series of ten (yes, 10) novellas Abbott plans to publish, inspired by her personal experiences, which I encourage you to check out on her website. Truly inspirational (as well as a super fun dive into early 70s culture!). I’m excited for Book 2, coming out later this month. Note: Debbie will be appearing with me at three upcoming events! See below for details.
A Song for the Road by Kathleen Basi. Love a good road trip book? Don’t miss this one. Tender, evocative, unflinchingly honest, ultimately uplifting. I kept finding myself on my maps app, following Miriam’s route and reading up on the quirky sights she visits. Despite the premise (a woman learning to find love again after losing her family in a car crash) the story will leave you full of hope and promise, something we can all use right now. Basi also has another book coming out this fall, Trust Falls, that will definitely be going on my TBR list!
Whistler by Ann Patchett. For me, Patchett is the gold standard. Would that I could become successful enough to do an event at Parnassus, her bookshop in Nashville. (Psst, if you order her books from Parnassus—which I always do unless I happen to be in Nashville visiting my kiddos and can buy in-person—you get a signed copy at no extra charge!) Tbh, though I preordered this, I’m only halfway through it because I had so many other books to get through first. But I’m loving it so much, and this is Ann Patchett afterall, so I feel confident saying you will too. If you’re not familiar with her work, let me just say her gift is spinning everyday circumstances into page-turners. How does she do it? If I ever figure it out, I’ll see you at my book signing at Parnassus, lol.
What—and where—are you reading this summer? Drop me a line to let me know where you’re traveling and what books you’re taking along with you.
WHERE TO CONNECT WITH LISA
Sat Aug 29, time TBD: The Eureka Room, 1012 N. Main Street, Cottonwood, AZ. Taste some fabulous Arizona wines, learn from the amazing and talented staff, and connect with local authors! My friend Debbie Abbott will be there, and possibly another author or two. I’m super excited about this “mini bookfair/wine event”. Details still in the works, but it will be afternoon. Hoping to get a big crowd so book your hotel room asap!
Sun Aug 30, 12-4pm: Stardust Booksellers, 915 Main Street, Clarkdale, AZ. Join me and author Debbie Abbott for a special afternoon of conversation, Q & A, and a lot of fun! If you haven’t been to Clarkdale, you are missing a little gem. Make sure to build time into your afternoon for a craft beer or seltzer at Smelter Town Brewery.
Sat Sep 5, 10am-3pm: Pinewood Country Club Craft Fair, 395 Pinewood Blvd, Munds Park, AZ. Do your labor day plans involve an escape to Flagstaff or nearby communities? Maybe they should! This annual event is a big hit. Debbie Abbott and I are excited to be part of it.
CALLING ALL BOOKCLUB MEMBERS! I’d love to speak with your group! Reply here, or visit my website for more info.
This month’s wine rec: Chateau Tumbleweed Vermentino. Recommending this one in honor of Ella, our little varmint, who is enduring a lot of back and forth to Munds Park this summer. Personally, I love a good vermentino because I love lime. But tbh, sometimes they can be pretty puckery. This one is surprisingly… not. It’s zesty for sure, but with a fuller, softer mouthfeel than is typical for this varietal. I will definitely be stocking up on my upcoming trip to Cottonwood.
Cheers!
Lisa
P.S. Little Pink Houses is now on Kindle Unlimited. AND for anyone not subscribed to KU, I’m running a Kindle Countdown Deal July 22 – 28. I’m sure you’ve already read it… but tell your friends and family they can grab theirs for $0.99!
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