Summer Reading & Stories Set in the Lone Star State
Summer reading lists hold a special charm, offering readers a chance to slow down and escape into new worlds during the year’s warmest, most relaxed months. Whether lounging by the beach, traveling, or enjoying quiet evenings at home, summer invites exploration through books.
These curated lists often feature lighter, more engaging reads—thrillers, romances, memoirs, or thought-provoking fiction—that match the season’s mood. For many, it’s a time to catch up on long-awaited titles or discover hidden gems. Summer reading isn’t just a pastime; it’s a seasonal ritual that blends leisure with the joy of discovery, turning every page into a small adventure.
With Father’s Day around the corner, here are three novels set in Texas that the book-loving dad in your life might enjoy. (Stoney Creek Publishing, 2025)
📚 “Dangerous Latitudes“ by Jack Woodville London
A gripping historical thriller set in the violent Republic of Texas during the 1840s. This novel follows an unlikely spy, two bumbling horse thieves, and a bewildering Black woman—all caught between Sam Houston and a Mexican army that crosses the Rio Grande with impunity.
Synopsis
Six years after the fall of the Alamo, Texas is on the brink of losing its hard-won independence. Naïve surveyor Alexandre LaBranche takes on a risky commission to map the Rio Grande, only to find himself embroiled in a dangerous game of war and espionage.
Packed with iconic figures like Sam Houston, Mirabeau Lamar, and Jack Hays, “Dangerous Latitudes” is a sweeping quest through a fractured frontier—culminating in a desperate race to save 200 captured Texans.
About the Author
Jack Woodville London is the author of four novels, including “French Letters: Children of a Good War,” winner of the 2018 Gold Medal for War and Military Fiction. He is also a respected legal author and essayist on literature, history, and travel.
🌊 “Under the Gulf Coast Sun” by Skip Rhudy
A coming-of-age love story set against the sunny beaches of 1970s Port Aransas. When Kassie Hernandez meets surfer Connor O’Reilly at a legendary beach party, sparks fly—but life on the coast is far from simple.
Synopsis
Kassie is focused on her dream of working in the space program, but her summer romance with Connor complicates everything. After a disastrous misunderstanding and a tragic accident at sea, both must wrestle with regret, longing, and the power of second chances.
With themes of young love, nostalgia, and resilience, “Under the Gulf Coast Sun” is perfect for readers who cherish memories of wild beach parties, endless summers, and the deep pull of the Gulf.
About the Author
Skip Rhudy grew up surfing the beaches of Port Aransas, Texas. He’s a translator, writer, and author of One Punk Summer and numerous short stories. His love for the Texas coast is evident in every page.
🌪 “Island Intern” by Paul Remmers
Set in the summer of 1900, this medical drama unfolds in Galveston just as the deadliest hurricane in U.S. history approaches. A young doctor must rise to the occasion—and face the storm of a lifetime.
Synopsis
Fresh from medical school, Douglas Schuler is eager to prove himself. As he navigates the pressures of hospital life, he falls for Rosa—a local girl with a big heart. But when a massive hurricane devastates the island, Douglas must rely on every ounce of skill and courage to save lives.
As disease spreads and the death toll rises, Douglas’s greatest fear is losing Rosa. “Island Intern” is a tale of heroism, love, and survival amid catastrophe.
About the Author
Paul Remmers is a physician with over 40 years of experience. Born and raised in Galveston, he’s a graduate of UTMB and has served on the faculty at both UTMB and Baylor College of Medicine. Island Intern is his debut novel.
Looking for the Perfect Father’s Day Gift?
Books like these offer more than great stories—they connect readers to the culture, history, and heart of Texas. Whether your dad is a history buff, a romantic, or a fan of character-driven fiction, one of these Texas-set tales is sure to make his summer reading list one to remember.
SA Examiner 