**Summer of Love: A Journey of Sobriety and Family Legacy in Napa Valley**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/kerri-maher-summer-of-love-100825-2-afc9b48a38fd4b488eb9b17989cf1795.jpg)
Author Kerri Maher is set to release her latest novel, “Summer of Love,” on July 7, 2026. In an exclusive with PEOPLE, Maher describes this book as the most personal project she’s ever worked on. The cover of the book, which has been revealed exclusively by PEOPLE, captures a picturesque scene of the Golden Gate Bridge, symbolizing the book’s setting in San Francisco.


The narrative of “Summer of Love” unfolds in the summer of 1967, focusing on the themes of sisterhood, sobriety, and the vibrant backdrop of San Francisco. Maher, renowned for works such as “The Paris Bookseller,” “The Girl in White Gloves,” and “The Kennedy Debutante,” delves into a deeply personal exploration of family dynamics and the impact of historical events on personal lives.
Moving beyond a mere historical account, “Summer of Love” delves into the transformative power of storytelling through the eyes of three women whose lives are profoundly affected by the events of the Summer of Love. Against the backdrop of the counter-culture revolution and the allure of love and peace in 1967 San Francisco, characters Winnie and Miranda navigate life-altering decisions that shape the legacy of their family’s Napa Valley winery.
While Maher currently resides in Boston, her California roots and personal experiences with sobriety infuse authenticity and depth into the narrative of “Summer of Love.” Maher herself describes the book as a celebratory embrace of the “power and joy of sobriety” that has been a significant part of her own journey over the past four years.
“Summer of Love” extends its narrative across decades, skillfully weaving together events from 1967 with those of a later period in 2015. The story unravels the lives of the Hartley sisters, bringing to light their intertwined destinies and the weight of family expectations. As family secrets and personal struggles come to the fore, the characters are forced to confront their past and reevaluate their paths moving forward.
In a nuanced exploration of identity, addiction, and the quest for truth, “Summer of Love” promises to captivate readers with its multi-layered storytelling. Maher’s intricate prose and vivid characterizations invite readers on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the enduring bonds that tie families together. The novel is now available for pre-order and will officially hit shelves on July 7, 2026.
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of “Summer of Love” as Kerri Maher skillfully navigates the complexities of family, sobriety, and the enduring power of storytelling. With its evocative narrative and poignant themes, this novel promises to be a compelling addition to Maher’s literary repertoire and a heartfelt exploration of love, legacy, and the enduring bonds that shape our lives.
