Hot New Books: July Releases

We’re so excited about all the fantastic new books being released this month! It’s that time of year when you need to escape the summer heat with a refreshing drink and a hot new book! On a side note, these are books we are personally excited about, not ones that will appear in our boxes! 

We can’t wait to hit the beach and chill (yes, we will be grabbing our bookworm beach towels, sunhats, and sunglasses!). We would love to hear what your favorite July new releases are. Make sure to let us know in the comments below!

July 2024 New Book Releases

The Bright Sword by Lev Grossman (July 16, 2024)

Lev Grossman, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Magicians trilogy, presents The Bright Sword, a modern reimagining of the King Arthur legend. The story follows a gifted young knight named Collum as he arrives at Camelot, competing for a coveted spot at the Round Table. 

Through challenges and trials, Collum's journey explores themes of bravery, loyalty, and the timeless allure of Arthurian myth, blending fantasy with literary depth in a compelling narrative for the new millennium.

The Fiancé Dilemma by Elena Armas (July 30, 2024)

In The Fiancé Dilemma by Elena Armas, Josie Moore is done with love after four failed engagements and an absentee father who recently revealed her existence. However, when her father tries to arrange a marriage for her to salvage his reputation, Josie must navigate the chaos that follows. This romantic, funny, and hopeful novel explores themes of love, family, and self-discovery with a lighthearted touch.

Beautiful Villain by Rebecca Kenney (July 16, 2024)

In Beautiful Villain by Rebecca F. Kenney, Daisy Finnegan is excited about the freedom of summer until Jay Gatsby, her long-lost love, reappears. However, he seems changed—darker and more enigmatic. As Daisy navigates her feelings and the mysteries surrounding Jay's return, the novel dives into love, loss, and transformation.

Until Next Summer by Ali Brady (July 9, 2024)

In Until Next Summer by Ali Brady, two former best friends, Jessie and Hillary, each discover love at an adults-only summer camp. This romantic and nostalgic novel explores themes of friendship, love, and the timeless charm of summer camp. Reuniting at Camp Chickasaw, Jessie and Hillary navigate their past and present, proving that "once a camp person, always a camp person.”

Business Casual by B.K. Borison (July 16, 2024)

Business Casual by B.K. Borison is about two opposites, Nova Porter and businessman Kian Montgomery, who explore whether one night together can be enough to get each other out of their systems. As the final book in the beloved Lovelight series, this contemporary romance combines humor, emotion, and lighthearted moments, making for a captivating and enjoyable read.

The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin (July 9, 2024)

The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin tells the story of a group of friends bonded by a tragic event who make a pact to reunite a decade later for a life-changing adventure. This heartfelt and adventurous novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Meant to Be explores themes of friendship, growth, and the enduring impact of shared experiences.

The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes (July 30, 2024)

The Grandest Game by Jennifer Lynn Barnes invites readers into a thrilling new chapter of the Inheritance Games saga. Seven participants receive exclusive tickets to compete in a high-stakes event on a mysterious island, promising puzzles, romance, danger, and the allure of immense riches. This young adult mystery captivates with its blend of adventure and intrigue, ensuring an unforgettable reading experience.

Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell (July 30, 2024)

Slow Dance by Rainbow Rowell follows Shiloh, who grew up on the wrong side of Omaha and dreams of escaping her past. Her only solace is Cary, her supportive and humorous friend since they were sixteen. This contemporary romance explores themes of hope, reflection, and emotional growth, promising a heartfelt journey through their intertwined lives.

The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer (July 16, 2024)

The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer draws inspiration from C.S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia, creating a fairy tale for adults. It follows best friends Jeremy Cox and Rafe Howard, who uncover a magical world in their childhood. As adults, they are drawn back into this mystical realm, facing challenges that test their friendship and bravery. This emotional, adventurous novel blends fantasy and romance, exploring themes of loyalty, courage, and the enduring magic of childhood dreams.

The Briar Club by Kate Quinn (July 9, 2024)

The Briar Club by Kate Quinn tells a haunting and powerful story set in 1950s Washington, D.C., against the backdrop of the McCarthy era. Focusing on female friendships and secrets within a boarding house, the novel explores the tension and fear of the time, revealing personal and political struggles. As the New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye and The Rose Code, Kate masterfully intertwines historical fiction with compelling character-driven narratives.

The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood (July 2, 2024)

In The Love of My Afterlife by Kirsty Greenwood, Delphie meets her soulmate in the afterlife waiting room and gets a second chance at life and love. To reunite with him on earth, she must find him within ten days. This humorous and emotional romance explores themes of second chances and the power of love beyond the grave.

All This and More by Peng Shepherd (July 9, 2024)

All This and More by Peng Shepherd follows a woman who gains the ability to rewrite every mistake she's ever made. This inventive novel from the bestselling author of The Cartographers and The Book of M delves into how far she'll go to attain her happiness, exploring themes of regret, second chances, and the complexities of human desire. It combines elements of dystopian fiction with a tense, adventurous narrative.

Happy Reading

Happy reading from all of us at Once Upon a Book Club—cheers to a month of bookish heaven!