If you’ve read some of my previous book recommendations, you know I like to read “in season”. That means I enjoy reading books in winter during the cold months and those spooky plots I love picking up in the fall. This is why I picked up Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid this summer because not only does it take place towards the end of summer but in the city of Malibu at the water’s edge.

It is a Read With Jenna book pic and, honestly, when I read the premise, I felt the plot wouldn’t reel me in. However, the more positive reviews I perused, the more intrigued I became and decided to jump in.

All the main characters are siblings, famous in their own right, and their father is a world-renowned famous singer. The story takes place in one night, from the beginning of the siblings’ famous end-of-the-summer party with flashbacks of the family’s early life. I’m a historical fiction buff so I just didn’t see myself engrossed in a book that told a story about Hollywood celebrities. Boy was I wrong and I’m so glad I read it!

I found that I connected with some of the characters in the book which made them seem more realistic than prominent, notable stars. The plot was certainly believable and most of the chapters were the actual timeline of the party that was taking place. The famous family consisted of 4 siblings so it kept my interest in learning about each of them through the course of the book. Fun fact, if you enjoy reading a hardcover copy without the dust jacket, the book is a beautiful lemon yellow color with a bright ocean blue spine that fits perfectly into a summer-themed bag right next to your sunscreen.

There’s still plenty of sunny days left for you to get your hands on this gem of a read. Enjoy the scenes that look into a famous fictional family while appreciating the sights of beautiful Malibu, California. Thanks for the great summer read, Taylor Jenkins Reid!