There’s just something about a good summer read… Whether you are camped out on the beach or lying next to a kiddie pool in your own backyard, a book just feels like vacation. We think the best “beach books” have the power to transport you to idyllic coastal towns, enchanting islands, or even far away lands.
Recently, we’ve been busy trying to find the best books for summer, and we hope you like our list, which includes a variety of genres and unique locations. Now is the perfect opportunity to explore new authors and discover some hidden gems along the way. We hope the characters in the books below become your friends as you are immersed in the wonderful stories.
The Covenant of Water
The Covenant of Water – (Abraham Verghese) is an Oprah Book Pick and a New York Times bestseller. This epic story of love, faith and medicine takes place in Kerala, South India. The story follows three generations of a family who are searching for the answers to a very strange secret. This novel is masterfully written and totally unforgettable.
The Sister Effect
The Sister Effect (Susan Mallery) explores the power of female friendships and family dynamics. The story is witty, emotional, and heartfelt as it delves into a broken family’s complex emotions. It displays the importance of reaching for one’s dreams in this uplifting story of healing and resilience.
The Beach House
The Beach House (Rachel Hanna) is set on an island off the coast of South Carolina with a quirky set of characters, mixed with southern charm and humor. The protagonist learns to live life on her own terms, making this a fun read, and a wonderful story. This is a USA Today bestseller.
Malibu Rising
Malibu Rising: A Novel (Taylor Jenkins Reid) is a New York Times bestseller and a Read with Jenna Book Club pick. It was listed as one of the best books of the year by Time Magazine, The Washington Post, PopSugar, Parade and Self Magazine. It is an irresistible, high-drama-at-the-beach-type story featuring four notorious siblings and their legendary singer father. They throw an epic party to celebrate the end of summer, which will change their lives forever.
Next Year in Havana
Next Year in Havana (Channing Cleeton) is filled with secrets, passion and courage – and is a favorite on the list. It was a Reese’s Book Club selection set between Cuba in 1958 and current-day Miami. It follows a Cuban-American woman as she searches for the roots of her identity and unearths a family secret hidden long ago.
All the Days of Summer
All the Days of Summer (Nancy Thayer) features the backdrop of the beautiful island of Nantucket. This moving novel depicts the complexity of family, and the unexpected ways fate can guide us forward. It is a story of new beginnings and hope amidst the summer sun and sandy beaches, beautifully described in this story. This is an enjoyable, quick read, which will hold your interest to the very end.
The People We Meet on Vacation
The People We Meet on Vacation (Emily Henry) explores the gap between love and friendship. Lighthearted and uplifting, it was an easy read, perfect to take on vacation. This New York Times bestseller is tender and funny, combined with descriptive locales as they travel the world.
Bad Summer People
Bad Summer People (Emma Rosenblum) takes place in the exclusive summer haven on Fire Island. The book was named a Best Book of Summer 2023 by Vogue, Elle, Bloomberg, PopSugar and Vanity Magazine. It gives a glimpse into privilege and is packed with scandal, alongside an extra dimension of drama and intrigue.
The Magic of Sea Glass
The Magic of Sea Glass (Jenny Hale) takes us to the Outer Banks of North Carolina. The book is an uplifting summer escape that will strengthen your family bonds and keep you believing in the incredible power of love. It’s a feel-good, small-town romance, which will warm your heart and take you right into the sand dunes with event-planner Jenny. What we don’t expect to find is a story hidden away in sea glass, which will change her life permanently.
Something in the Water
Something in the Water (Catherine Steadman) is a Resse’s Book Club pick and a New York Times bestseller. This psychological thriller captivated us from the very beginning with a shocking discovery in paradise, then took us through some crazy twists and turns. It will keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat as the author cleverly takes you on a gripping journey.
Wherever this summer takes you, we hope you find the relaxation, adventure, and the delightful escape that a good book offers.
“That’s the thing about books. They let you travel without moving your feet.” Jhumpa Lahiri
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