With spring warming up, Emily and I are even more excited to get outside and enjoy another beautiful summer on the North Shore. Many of us use this time to relax and unwind through extended vacations and quality time with family. For me, picking up a good book is the perfect way to relax. I love a book that will transport me to a different world, whether it’s the streets of Philadelphia or a luxury resort in Vietnam. For those of you that enjoy a similar reading experience, I recommend adding the following books to your 2017 summer reading list:

Cold Blooded,” Lisa Regan – With a strong protagonist, “Cold Blooded” follows Jocelyn Rush as she searches for the killer of a high school track star. The suspense of this novel keeps you at the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The Whistler,” John Grisham – America’s #1 bestselling author is at it again with a courtroom thriller that beats any mid-summer reruns of your favorite crime drama.

The Making of the Godfather,” Mario Puzo – The story of the making of one of the best book to movie adaptations of all time is inspiring for readers and authors alike. The essay comes in e-book and audio making it the perfect read during your summer travels.

The Apology,” Eric Haggman – A page-turner that takes you from luxury hotels in Vietnam to the underworld of the Japanese Yakuza to South Africa, Haggman’s first novel is a thrill ride that won’t require you to leave the comforts of your lounge chair.

Each year I search for books that inspire my writing and there’s no question that these works certainly do that. Whether you’re an author or someone who enjoys a great read, I hope you take time this summer to pick up a book that excites your imagination.

What books are on your summer reading list? Tell me on Facebook or Twitter!