The end of May means the beginning of summer (which officially starts on June 21, but who's counting), so that means it’s time to break out the bug spray, grill, and sunscreen.

It’s also time to figure out what your next pool, beach or riverside read is, so we’ve compiled five recently released (or popularized) summer reads by authors with ties to Sacramento to get you started.

“The Missing Piece” by John Lescroart | The New York Times best-selling author of legal thrillers, this Davis-based writer recently released the 19th title in his “Dismas Hardy” series. The plot — which combines murder, blind revenge + diving into DNA examinations — makes for a great stand-alone read.

“The Wizard’s Wish” by Brad Yates | A children’s book that explores ways to feel good, be kind to yourself + how to handle being upset. This book was included in the “Everyone Wins” gift bags handed out to select 2022 Oscar nominees the night before the awards ceremony.

“Building a Legacy of Love: Thriving in the Sandwich Generation” by Christy Yates | Dive into this book about how to thrive while raising children + managing the care of an aging parent. This book was also included in the “Everyone Wins” gift bags handed out to select 2022 Oscar nominees the night before the awards ceremony.

“Onward!: True Life Stories of Challenges, Choices & Change” by Emma Fulenwider | Written by guided autobiography instructors, this novel is a collection of personal narratives about life-changing moments when dreams + beliefs are threatened or shattered, and when we're forced to make tough choices that challenge us to learn and grow.

“Say Goodbye” by Karen Rose | The third novel in “The Sacramento Series” that follows the mystery of a serial killer terrorizing the women of the River City + forces local law enforcement officers’ professional and private lives to collide.

Need more recommendations? Stop by Capital Books, East Village Bookshop, or any Sacramento Public Library to get expert advice from our local book stops. 📚