So in case you’re tired of hearing about my writing (and don’t tell me if you are!) here are my top five book picks for summer, some of which I’ve read and some that are on my list:

1. Divergent by Veronica Roth – I. Couldn’t. Put. This. Book. Down. Seriously. Just finished it last night and I’m already wondering what the next one’s going to be like. The best way I can describe it is The Hunger Games meets Nikita (current TV version). Set in a dystopian, post-apocalyptic version of Chicago, teenagers must choose in which of five virtue-based factions they’ll live the rest of their lives, and of course action and romance ensue.
2. Juliet by Anne Fortier – No time for a summer vacation? Read this thriller and you’ll feel like you’re in Sienna, Italy. (In fact, I’m planning a trip there next year just because of this book.) Juliet and her sister Janice have just lost their dear Aunt Rose when Juliet finds out the family has been hiding a secret that may mean she’s related to the person on whom Shakespeare based his famous character of the same name. Juliet travels to Italy and uncovers the original story of Guiletta and Romeo (the one before Shakespeare’s version and, yes, there were ones before him) all the while unraveling her own family mystery. This is one of the most romantic (not graphic or raunchy) books I’ve ever read – tied for my all-time favorite book.
   
3. The Rossetti Letter by Christi Phillips – Siena not your style? How about Venice? In this historical thriller a single letter unites a modern-day historian to a 17^thcentury Venetian courtesan and murderous plot to overthrow the city. And the plot is based on a real conspiracy. The writing so rich you’ll be able to hear the waters lapping at the canal banks, guaranteed.
4. Abandon by Meg Cabot – I just started this book because the author is coming to town and I won’t go to a signing not having read the author’s work. And I wanted to read it anyway. It’s a modern retelling of the Greek myth of Persephone and Demeter. Slow to start so far, but given that it comes from the author of the Princess Diaries, I’m hoping it won’t disappoint.
5. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater – This one’s been big with the YA (Young Adult) crowd for a while now and the author is also coming to town, so I bought it. It’s next on my list. All I know is it is about werewolves (and I hate werewolves), but a friend of mine shared a few passages and the writing is lusciously lyrical. Here’s part of what Amazon.com said about it: “Told from alternating points of view, the narrative takes a classic Romeo & Juliet plot and transforms it into a paranormal romance that is beautiful and moving… A must-have that will give Bella and Edward a run for their money.”

What about you? What are your summer book picks? Or even your favorite books? Tell me in the comments below. We may have some favorites in common.