Helena author Sally Blakely will release her second romance novel, Summer People, at a book launch party hosted by Montana Book Company on Tuesday, July 7. Admission is free, and the event will include a Q&A session and book signing.

It's the second time Montana Book Company has hosted a release party for Blakely. Last year the store celebrated the launch of her debut novel, Friends to Lovers, which by the store's account performed well. The back-to-back launches make Blakely one of the more visible locally-published fiction writers working in Helena right now.

Montana Book Company, located on Last Chance Gulch, has increasingly positioned itself as a venue for local author events alongside its retail operation. The Blakely launch is one of several community events the store has hosted this summer season.

Summer People will be available for purchase at the event. The July 7 party starts at the store — check Montana Book Company's website or social media for the exact start time.