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The Malign Ghosts of Summer

Two-time Lambda Literary Award winner Ann McMan presents a lyrical, multi-voiced sapphic novel that explores the fragile architecture of the lives we create, the resilience required to rebuild them, and the enduring power of friendship that sustains us through it all.

Told through the interwoven perspectives of four unforgettable characters—Meg, a talented chef whose culinary journey forms the backbone of the narrative; Camille, the devoted musician who is Meg’s childhood best friend and unrequited love; Laurent, a razor-sharp food critic and loyal confidant who sees through Meg’s bravado; and Kip, a fearless documentary photographer who dares Meg to embrace her passion and live out loud—this richly layered, postwar novel spans decades, continents, and the vastness of emotional terrains.

From postwar Paris to mid-century New York City, to the remote beauty of Vermont’s Lake Champlain Islands, The Malign Ghosts of Summer explores how the quest for love—in all its forms—can shape a life. As each character grapples with loss, belonging, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world, their voices converge in a story of reinvention, chosen family, and the quiet, radiant triumph of becoming who you were always meant to be.

For readers of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, The Hours, and Honey Girl, this novel is a tender celebration of resilience, chosen family, and the sustaining power of connection.

The Malign Ghosts of Summer will be available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook formats.

Praise for Ann McMan

“Nobody does it like Ann McMan!”

—Milena McKay, Lambda Literary and GCLS Award-winning author

“Dang girl, you can write!”

—Dorothy Allison, National Book Award finalist for Bastard Out of Carolina

“One of our best!”

—Katherine V. Forrest, Trailblazing author of Curious Wine

“Ann McMan is the lesbian Armistead Maupin, only better.”

—Lee Lynch, Trailblazing author of The Swashbuckler

“Ann McMan creates characters that readers grow to love, and others they can’t take their eyes off.”

—Ellen Hart, Mystery Writers of America Grand Master