Summer is here, and Charlotte-Mecklenburg schools are sending their students off with summer reading assignments — but we’re not letting adults off the hook.

Here’s your official summer reading list, courtesy of local bookstores, and don’t worry, they're just suggestions, and you won’t be quizzed.

📚 Recommendations by Trope Bookshop

"One Golden Summer" by Carley Fortune
The story follows photographer Alice Everly, who, burned out and recently heartbroken, returns to her grandmother’s lakeside cottage — only to be jolted by memories and emotions upon reuniting with Charlie, a green-eyed flirt from one of her first photographs that sparked her passion.

"Shield of Sparrows" by Deveny Perry
If you're a fan of Sarah J. Maas and Rebecca Yarros, you'll love this story. Follow this romantasy where enemies become lovers in a cursed realm.

Editor's note: Trope's online shop is coming soon.

📚 Recommendations by Main Street Books

"Park Avenue" by Renee Ahdieh
The Charlotte author's adult debut novel tells the story of a corporate attorney taking on a crisis with her firm's biggest client. Think: "Crazy Rich Asians" meets "Succession."

"The Correspondent" by Virginia Evans
This fictional tale follows a lifelong writer and retired lawyer as she navigates grief, self-forgiveness, and family ties — it's perfect for your next book club meeting.

Bonus: Evans is from Winston-Salem (we see you, WStoday).

📚 Recommendations by Park Road Books

"Road To Tender Hearts" by Annie Hartnett
Reviewed as a warm-hearted and darkly comedic novel, follow the life of a million-dollar lottery winner on a mission to reunite with his high school crush.

"The Quiet Librarian" by Alan Eskens
After finding out her friend was murdered, a librarian goes on a quest to hunt down the killer and confront her past in this new release.

Want to read more? Consider joining one of the many book clubs across the Queen City.