Beach Reads and City Lights

Nothing says summer like a good book and a new adventure—and I've got both covered this month!

I’ve listed, just for you, some great SUMMER BEACH READ suggestions (and you don't have to be on a beach to read them…). Plus, some inside scoop from my trip to New York and the International Thriller Writer's Conference and so much more!

🗽  LET'S TALK SUMMER READING!

Here is a list of books that might make your summer sizzle. All of them have a minimum of 4.3 stars on Amazon. That said, I've not read them all so I will need your feedback on which ones you loved and should be on my TBR list.

For Romance Lovers:

• People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry - Let's face it, her books are made for summer!

• The Summer House by Jenny Hale

• One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune

For Women's Fiction Fans:

• Summer Sisters by Judy Blume - This is on my TBR list! Side note: I'm taking a masterclass right now given by Judy Blume. It's amazing and I'm sure this book is going to be awesome!

• The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh - I love the title of this book and really, isn't this a good theme to live by? Just say Yes!

• Summer Island by Kristin Hannah - Can you go wrong with a Kristin Hannah book? I don't think so.

For Cozy Beach Vibes:

• Seabreeze by Jan Moran - This book screams beach, doesn't it? Also this is a full series with excellent reviews.

• Summer Light on Nantucket by Nancy Thayer - Perfect seaside setting for lazy afternoons

• Cottage by the Sea by Debbie Macomber - Coastal comfort reading at its finest

• The Nantucket Restaurant by Pamela Kelley

 📚 BOOK OF THE MONTH SPOTLIGHT

Hope to Die by James Patterson -  This thriller had me turning pages until 2 AM! Patterson's pacing is relentless, and the twists kept me guessing. Perfect for readers who love fast-paced suspense with heart.

My current read? The Only One Left by Riley Sager.

This list could go on and on, but I want to hear from you! Email me at sandy@sandyclements.com and tell me what book you've recently read and recommend to others!

🍎 BEHIND THE SCENES IN NEW YORK!

Writing taught me something powerful: every rejection is just redirecting you toward something better.

Conference Highlight: John Grisham's advice that stuck with me most: "Don't write what you think will sell—write what you're passionate about. Passion is what keeps you going through the tough times."

First, let me tell you about the writing celebs that were there! James Patterson, John Grisham (pictured above left), David Baldacci, Lisa Gardner, Robert Dugoni (pictured above), Oyinkan Braithwaite, and Jennifer Hillier, just to name a few!

All the authors shared so openly about their writing journey, inspiring attendees to keep sharing our stories. They encouraged us with their heartfelt and honest stories of their setbacks and successes. They were all so great, but did I have a favorite? Yep! Definitely, John Grisham. Funny, funny, and so relatable.

I also made new author friends (Author Gayle Brown pictured with me, above) and served on a panel that helped other authors navigate the different paths to publishing.

Plus, I still made time to explore the city. The first few days, my daughter, Sara, joined me and we walked until I had blisters, but no regrets.  We took a stroll down Park Avenue, had lunch in Central Park, and attended the Broadway Show, Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. It was amazing.

Another fun place we visited was The Strand Bookstore. Rumor has it that The Strand has 18 miles of books, both new and used. And, I stopped into St. Thomas Church. The beauty is indescribable. I've added a couple of pics from the trip and hope you enjoy them!

📚  SOME BIG NEWS ABOUT MY UPCOMING BOOK, TRAPPED

Even though my book isn't ready for publication, it was already recognized as a Top Pick by the Judges at Killer Nashville!

What this means: Out of all the amazing submissions, Trapped stood out to industry professionals as having exceptional potential. This recognition from Killer Nashville—one of the premier mystery/thriller conferences—validates that this story has what it takes to captivate readers.

A little about Trapped: Chemistry teacher Vivienne Johnson's life implodes after a deadly school fire, but when more mysterious blazes follow, she discovers the fires aren't random—and someone close to her will do anything to keep the truth buried.

What's next: I'm putting the finishing touches on the manuscript and will be sharing cover reveals, publication timeline, and maybe even a sneak peek chapter with my newsletter subscribers first!

I'll keep you updated on my progress, so stay tuned! 

💪🏼   A LITTLE ENCOURAGEMENT (Because We All Need It)

At the conference, I discovered that every author faces doubt. Even bestselling writers talked about rejection, imposter syndrome, and wondering if their work was good enough.

As a writer—and as a human—I'm learning to be selective about the voices I listen to. Opinions, judgments, off-the-cuff comments about what you are doing or the choices you are making seem to swarm around us like gnats.

It's important to recognize that you and I have the right to feel good about the choices we make.

So, the next time you're doubting yourself or worrying about what others will think, know that you have this one beautiful life and you can feel confident about your decisions and your path. Release guilt that isn't yours to carry, embrace where you are right now, and celebrate your growth.

✈️   Where am I going next?

Stay tuned because my travel isn't over yet! I'll be in Liberty, Missouri, for an Author Meet & Greet on August 2nd from 10-1. Then I'm off to Nashville, Tennessee, New Orleans, Louisiana, and Berlin, Germany, so stay tuned for all the inside scoop.

Next month preview: I'll be sharing my NEW ORLEANS adventure plans and asking for your must-visit recommendations!

💌 LET'S CONNECT!

Reply with your current summer read! I love hearing what's keeping you turning pages.

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Got a question or a comment? Hit comment - I love hearing from you!