There's a unique charm to summer reading. A captivating book can take you away, making it ideal for sunbathing or cozy afternoons. Our community of enthusiastic readers contributed their top picks for this season, and the results are fantastic.
From lighthearted beach novels to poignant memoirs, exhilarating thrillers to stories that embody the essence of summer, this compilation covers it all. Whether you're off to a getaway or enjoying a staycation, these 27 cherished titles are sure to accompany you throughout the warm months.
Summer Reads Inspired by You
Historical Fiction
The Shell Seekers by Rosamund Pilcher
A perfect lengthy summer novel! —Helen G.
The Drifters by James Michener
Enjoyed following the soul-searching journeys of these young travelers in exotic locations. —Elle V.
Entrepreneurship, wine, adventure, romance, and mystery—this book has it all! —Melissa L.
This book grabbed my attention right away; I loved reading it outdoors with iced coffee while my toddler napped. It beautifully combines genres and tells the story from a young woman's perspective. Plus, the peach on the cover screams summer! —Lisbeth C.
Kristin Hannah never disappoints, and The Women is a testament to that. As a nurse who loves historical fiction, I was captivated by this powerful tale of the often-overlooked women in Vietnam. Hannah’s writing evokes both heartache and strength, showing that heroism can be found beyond the battlefield. A must-read for summer. —Mary Ann R.
The Beach at Summerly by Beatriz Williams
Couldn’t put it down! Great characters, and a fascinating historical backdrop that isn't frequently explored in fiction. A fantastic beach read for those who enjoy a touch of history with their romance. —Emily L.
Contemporary Fiction
Maine unfolds a multi-generational drama filled with secrets, sibling rivalries, and Catholic guilt, all set in a beach house in Maine. You’ll find yourself loving (and hating) the four narrators—Alice, Kathleen, Ann Marie, and Maggie. —Jamie D.
A classic family saga set in coastal Maine that my friends and I revisit every summer! —Carolyn H.
Women in Sunlight by Frances Mayes
I first read this in late summer 2018. The story of buying a retirement villa in Tuscany is captivating, but it’s the dreamy, inspirational vibe that keeps me coming back. It offers wonderful ideas for hosting and is a perfect mid-year reset. —Trisha D.
This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune
A delightful mix of romance, friendship, growth, and flowers. —Tess P.
The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand
This one has romance, mystery, drama, and unexpected twists! So good!! —Ann S.
The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
A fun glimpse into a dreamy summer in Nantucket with an intriguing twist! —Charlotte M.
This sweet, easy read captures the summer vibe while offering subtle inspiration for women of all ages. Patchett expertly weaves timelines and characters, keeping the story engaging and light. —Dréa P.
Starling Darling by Erica Vipond
As a local Austin author, this story explores a complex mother-daughter relationship while also being a mystery that takes you across Europe, highlighting the romance of Rome and Amsterdam. —Erica V.
The PaperPalace by Miranda Cowley Heller
This novel captivated me from the start with its evocative Cape Cod setting and emotional depth. It tells the story of a woman caught between her current life and a past one, exploring memory, choice, and the beauty of now. It’s a wonderfully nostalgic summer read. —Melissa S.
A GoodLife by Virginie Grimaldi
This book dives into themes of family, love, and relationships, capturing the essence of French summers in places like Biarritz. The author, a longtime favorite, brings warmth and joy to every story. —Miriam C.
Romance
Seriously underrated. This book has an unforgettable plot twist. —Deborah C.
The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella
I revisit this book often; it beautifully reminds us of what truly matters. A wonderful read for anyone feeling overwhelmed—funny, charming, and full of heart. —Sharon C.
I read this every summer. Beaches, diving, a curse, adventure, and romance—total perfection. —Candace B.
Mystery
The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies by Alison Goodman
Funny, romantic, and feminist. I could spend my entire vacation diving into this brave woman’s adventures in London as she helps other women while encountering a clever mystery man. —Diana E.
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Safon
What better summer read than one that transports you to a different time and place? Hello, Barcelona! With captivating characters and a mysterious plot, Shadow of the Wind is an engaging escape, especially if you’re not traveling to Spain this summer! —Leila W.
A deeply moving tale set in a summer home on an island that immerses you in the season, making you feel like you're right there on the beach with the characters. —Megan N.
Humor/Satire
Hey Ladies! by Michelle Markowitz and Caroline Moss
If you often start a conversation with “Hey Ladies!” then you’ll adore this book, regardless of age. It's a light-hearted, laugh-out-loud read told through emails and messages—so relatable and creative. —Liz B.
Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy by Kevin Kwan
The imagery is stunning, and it’s easy to get lost in this luxurious world that most of us can only dream about. The characters are well-developed, with much more depth than in the movie. I love this trilogy so much that I've read it twice and plan to revisit it this summer. —Natalie K.
Miscellaneous
The Life Impossible by Matt Haig
While it’s a new release, it perfectly balances literary depth with lightness. It reminds us that life is never “over.” New adventures await if we’re open to them! —Megan J.
This middle-reader book beautifully tells the story of thirteen-year-old Sophie sailing to England to meet her grandfather while discovering herself. It's filled with adventure, mystery, and stunning descriptions of the ocean and dreamy islands. If you can't reach the beach this summer, reading this book is the next best thing! —Kathryn L.
Gift from the Sea by Anne Morrow Lindbergh
This classic from 1955 remains relevant for women today. I revisit it every summer. —Brenda L.
