Heartwarming Family & Friendship Books from the 2023 Summer Reading Guide

If you’re like me, during your summer reading season, you love reading stories that dig deep into the messy, beautiful, and complicated nature of human relationships. From heartwarming friendships and second chances to navigating family expectations and painful pasts, these books in The 2023 Summer Reading Guide hit all the emotional notes we crave. You’ll find six powerful novels about family and friendships, starting over, and learning to embrace both the people in our lives and the version of ourselves we’re becoming.

Top 6 Family & Friendship Books from the 2023 Summer Reading Guide

The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer

Clover, a death doula who’s made a life out of comforting others in their final moments, realizes she’s been avoiding truly living her own life. Through the people she meets—and the regrets they share—Clover begins to open herself up to the possibility of friendship, love, and joy. This novel is gentle, inspiring, and so affirming for anyone navigating loneliness, purpose, or starting anew.

You can get a copy of The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer on Amazon

Summer Stage by Meg Mitchell Moore

A family of actors come together for a summer production on Block Island, and as they navigate their shared past, old wounds and new beginnings come to light. With the island as a dreamy backdrop, this novel explores how families perform for one another—on stage and off—and how they learn to truly show up when it matters most. It’s heartfelt, funny, and brimming with tension and tenderness.

You can get a copy of Summer Stage by Meg Mitchell Moore on Amazon

The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer

A reclusive children’s author invites three devoted fans to compete for the only copy of his new manuscript in a magical, Willy Wonka–esque competition. At its core, this story is about belonging, healing from past trauma, and building the kind of family that doesn’t have to be blood-related. Perfect for dreamers and anyone who believes in second chances.

You can get a copy of The Wishing Game by Meg Shaffer on Amazon

Fireworks Every Night by Beth Raymer

Set in 1990s South Florida, this novel follows a girl trying to survive her turbulent home life while holding on to big dreams and bigger heart. This coming-of-age story is raw, unflinching, and yet full of hope. A great reminder that no matter where we come from, we can still carve out the life we want.

You can get a copy of Fireworks Every Night by Beth Raymer on Amazon

Save What’s Left by Elizabeth Castellano

After a rough divorce, Kathleen moves to a sleepy beach town for peace—but instead finds herself in a battle with her neighbor over a garish new construction. What unfolds is an unexpectedly hilarious and sharp exploration of identity, purpose, and community in midlife. It’s the kind of summer read that will have you laughing out loud one moment and reflecting the next.

You can get a copy of Save What’s Left by Elizabeth Castellano on Amazon

High Time by Hannah Rothschild

Set in modern-day England, this witty and charming novel follows a woman trying to save her crumbling family estate—while navigating a divorce, unexpected betrayal, and high society schemes. It’s clever, glamorous, and filled with biting social commentary, making it a perfect blend of substance and sparkle.

You can get a copy of High Time by Hannah Rothschild on Amazon

Which Book Will You Read First?

I’d love to know: which of these family and friendship reads are going on your TBR?
Are you a fan of multigenerational family sagas or found-family stories that tug at your heart? Let’s continue the conversation in the comments.