If you’ve been around the site at all, you know that I’ve started matching my books to the seasons. This is a really fun way to experience the novel a little deeper and get more into the spirit of your current time of year.
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There’s no better time to indulge in a good book than during the lazy, sun-kissed days of summer. Whether you’re lounging on a sandy beach, relaxing in a hammock under the shade of a tree, or simply enjoying the warmth of the sun on your skin, summer provides the perfect backdrop for getting lost in a story.
Mysteries, heartwarming romances, and thrilling adventures all set on a summer day or a quaint coastal town are some of the best summer reads. So, if you’re looking to plan your summer reading list, I’ve put together some of the best books to read in summer to help make your reading experience unforgettable.
Book lovers heading on vacation this summer should look into getting an e-reader like a kindle. You don’t have to worry about lugging around a bunch of hardcover, or even paperback books that take up luggage space.
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Where the Crawdads Sing – Delia Owens
“Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens is a novel set in the marshes of North Carolina. It follows the life of Kya Clark, a young girl who is abandoned by her family and grows up isolated in the marshland. Despite her loneliness, Kya develops a deep connection with the natural world around her and becomes known as the “Marsh Girl.”
The narrative alternates between two timelines: Kya’s coming-of-age story and a murder investigation that occurs years later. When Chase Andrews, a popular local man, is found dead, suspicion falls on Kya, who has had a connection with him in the past.
As the investigation unfolds, the novel explores themes of loneliness, prejudice, and the beauty of nature. It also delves into the complexities of human relationships and the impact of trauma on individuals.
“Where the Crawdads Sing” is a perfect summer read, with a blend of mystery, romance, and the evocative imagery of the marshes, creating an immersive experience that transports readers to the sultry, atmospheric setting of North Carolina.
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Dandelion Wine-Ray Bradbury
“Dandelion Wine” by Ray Bradbury is a nostalgic and beautifully written novel set in the summer of 1928 in the fictional town of Green Town, Illinois. The story follows twelve-year-old Douglas Spaulding and his experiences as he navigates the joys and sorrows of boyhood during that magical summer.
Throughout the novel, Douglas learns valuable life lessons from his interactions with family, friends, and neighbors. He discovers the wonders of small-town life, from the simple pleasures of making dandelion wine with his grandfather to the excitement of exploring new adventures with his friends.
The novel captures the essence of summer through vivid descriptions of the sights, sounds, and smells of the season. It celebrates the innocence and wonder of childhood while also exploring deeper themes such as the passage of time, the fleeting nature of youth, and the importance of cherishing every moment.
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Picnic at Hanging Rock- Joan Lindsay
“Picnic at Hanging Rock” by Joan Lindsay is a mysterious and haunting novel set in 1900 in Australia. The story begins with a group of schoolgirls from Appleyard College who embark on a picnic to Hanging Rock, a geological formation in the Australian bush. During the excursion, three of the girls and one of their teachers mysteriously disappear without a trace.
The novel explores the aftermath of the disappearances as the community grapples with shock, grief, and speculation about what happened to the missing girls. Despite extensive search efforts, no conclusive answers are ever found, leaving the fate of the girls shrouded in uncertainty.
“Picnic at Hanging Rock” is a mesmerizing blend of mystery, Gothic atmosphere, and psychological suspense. Joan Lindsay’s lyrical prose and evocative imagery create a sense of unease and foreboding, drawing readers into a world where the line between the ordinary and the extraordinary blurs, and the mysteries of the human psyche collide with the mysteries of the natural world.
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After Delores-Sarah Schulman
“After Delores” by Sarah Schulman is a poignant and incisive novel that delves into the complexities of family, identity, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on the LGBTQ+ community. Set in New York City during the 1980s, the story revolves around the protagonist, Molly Bolt, as she navigates her relationships with her dysfunctional family members, particularly her mother, Delores, who is struggling with her own demons.
As Molly grapples with her sexuality and searches for her place in the world, she becomes increasingly involved in AIDS activism, confronting the stigma and discrimination faced by those living with the disease. Schulman skillfully weaves together themes of love, loss, and resilience, capturing the emotional landscape of the era with compassion and insight.
Schulman’s writing style is engaging and accessible, making it perfect for lounging by the pool or relaxing on the beach
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The Virgin Suicides-Jeffrey Eugenides
“The Virgin Suicides” by Jeffrey Eugenides is a haunting and lyrical novel that explores the mysterious lives and tragic deaths of the five Lisbon sisters, as recounted by the boys in their neighborhood who were infatuated with them. Set in the suburbs of Detroit during the 1970s, the story unfolds through the collective memories of these boys, who piece together the events leading up to the suicides of the Lisbon sisters.
As the boys become increasingly obsessed with the enigmatic sisters, they grapple with questions of desire, identity, and the nature of memory. Through Eugenides’ evocative prose, the novel delves into the complexities of adolescence, family dynamics, and the pervasive sense of loss that permeates the lives of the characters.
While many might be surprised it’s on a list of books for summer, “The Virgin Suicides” is a poignant meditation on the fleeting nature of youth and the enduring power of memory. With its haunting imagery and richly drawn characters, it captivates readers with its exploration of love, longing, and the search for meaning in the face of tragedy.
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The Ground Beneath Her Feet-Salman Rushdie
“The Ground Beneath Her Feet” by Salman Rushdie is a sprawling and epic novel that weaves together elements of mythology, music, and modern history to tell the story of two star-crossed lovers, Ormus Cama and Vina Apsara.
Set in the second half of the 20th century, the novel follows their tumultuous relationship from their childhood in Bombay to their rise to fame as rock stars on the international stage.
As Ormus and Vina navigate the highs and lows of fame, fortune, and artistic ambition, their love affair becomes a symbol of the transcendent power of music and the enduring allure of celebrity. Yet, their bond is tested by jealousy, betrayal, and the forces of fate that seem determined to keep them apart.
Through Rushdie’s richly textured prose and inventive storytelling, the novel explores themes of identity, cultural hybridity, and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing world. Drawing on elements of Greek mythology, Indian folklore, and the history of rock and roll, “The Ground Beneath Her Feet” is a tale of love, loss, and the transformative power of art.
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Call Me By Your Name- André Aciman
“Call Me By Your Name” by André Aciman is a tender and evocative coming-of-age novel set in Italy during the early 1980s. The story revolves around the intense and passionate romance that blossoms between seventeen-year-old Elio Perlman and twenty-four-year-old Oliver, a visiting scholar who comes to stay with Elio’s family for the summer.
Narrated by Elio, the novel immerses readers in his introspective and emotionally charged perspective as he grapples with his burgeoning desires and complex feelings for Oliver. Against the backdrop of the sun-drenched Italian countryside, their relationship unfolds gradually, marked by moments of intimacy, longing, and uncertainty.
“Call Me By Your Name” is an exploration of first love and sexual awakening, as well as a meditation on the ways in which our deepest connections shape and define us. With its lush imagery, richly drawn characters, and achingly beautiful prose, the novel resonates with readers long after the final page, leaving an indelible impression of love’s transformative power.
This is a perfect summer read, with its lush prose evoking the sun-drenched beauty of the Italian countryside, inviting readers to immerse themselves in the idyllic setting.
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Rebecca-Daphne du Maurier
“Rebecca” by Daphne du Maurier is a classic Gothic novel that follows the story of an unnamed young woman who becomes the second wife of Maxim de Winter, a wealthy widower. Set in the grand estate of Manderley on the windswept coast of Cornwall, the novel unfolds as the protagonist grapples with the shadow of Maxim’s first wife, the enigmatic Rebecca, whose presence looms large over the household.
As the protagonist settles into her new role as mistress of Manderley, she finds herself increasingly haunted by the memory of Rebecca and the secrets that surround her death. As she delves deeper into the mysteries of the estate, she uncovers a web of lies, betrayal, and jealousy that threatens to unravel her own happiness.
Narrated with suspense and tension, “Rebecca” explores themes of identity, power, and the nature of love. Du Maurier masterfully creates an atmosphere of foreboding and unease, drawing readers into the psychological drama unfolding within the walls of Manderley.
Rebecca is also on my list of spooky books to read in October.
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Waiting to Exhale-Terry McMillan
“Waiting to Exhale” by Terry McMillan is a contemporary novel that follows the lives of four African American women—Savannah, Bernadine, Robin, and Gloria—as they navigate the ups and downs of love, friendship, and career in Phoenix, Arizona.
Each woman grapples with her own set of challenges and aspirations. Savannah is a successful television producer searching for a meaningful relationship; Bernadine struggles with the aftermath of her husband’s infidelity and the dissolution of her marriage; Robin is a flighty and promiscuous real estate agent in search of true love; and Gloria is a devoted single mother grappling with her son’s growing independence and her own desires for companionship.
As the women lean on each other for support and companionship, they share their triumphs and setbacks, offering each other strength and solidarity in the face of life’s uncertainties. Through their interconnected stories, McMillan explores themes of sisterhood, self-discovery, and the quest for fulfillment in a world fraught with challenges and obstacles.
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Giovanni’s Room-James Baldwin
“Giovanni’s Room” by James Baldwin is a powerful and emotionally charged novel that explores themes of love, identity, and societal expectations in 1950s Paris. The story follows the protagonist, David, a young American expatriate who grapples with his sexuality and desires.
David embarks on a passionate affair with Giovanni, a handsome Italian bartender. However, their relationship is fraught with complexities and insecurities, as David struggles to come to terms with his homosexuality in a society that condemns same-sex love.
David finds himself torn between his love for Giovanni and his desire to conform to societal norms. His internal conflict is further exacerbated by his engagement to Hella, an American woman who is unaware of his true feelings.
Another surprise to be included in summer books, Giovanni’s Room is definitely worth a read any time of year, but with its themes of renewal and exploration, it’s a definitely fit for summertime.
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The Flatshare – Beth O’Leary
“The Flatshare” by Beth O’Leary is a charming contemporary romance novel that follows the unlikely relationship between Tiffy Moore and Leon Twomey, who share a flat but have never met.
Tiffy is a quirky and outgoing editor who finds herself in need of an affordable place to live after her breakup with her ex-boyfriend. Leon, on the other hand, works night shifts as a palliative care nurse and is struggling to make ends meet. In a desperate bid to save money, Leon decides to rent out his one-bedroom flat during the day while he’s at work, and Tiffy eagerly responds to his ad.
Despite never meeting face-to-face, Tiffy and Leon begin to communicate through notes left around the flat, gradually forming a connection and developing a deep bond. As they navigate their unconventional living arrangement, they find themselves sharing their hopes, fears, and dreams with each other, and their relationship blossoms into something neither of them expected.
As their feelings for each other deepen, Tiffy and Leon must confront their own insecurities and past traumas in order to fully embrace the possibility of love. With its heartwarming storyline, witty banter, and endearing characters, “The Flatshare” is a delightful and uplifting read that celebrates the power of connection and the transformative nature of love and can be added to your list of best vacation reads. Maybe take it on your summer trip to London?
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The Rumor-Elin Hilderbrand
“The Rumor” by Elin Hilderbrand is a captivating novel set on the idyllic island of Nantucket, where rumors spread like wildfire among the tight-knit community.
The story revolves around two best friends, Madeline King and Grace Pancik, both successful authors with seemingly perfect lives. However, when a rumor about infidelity involving Grace’s husband, Fast Eddie, starts to circulate, it threatens to unravel the fabric of their friendship and the stability of their lives.
As the rumor spreads, it affects not only Grace and Fast Eddie’s marriage but also the relationships of those around them, including Madeline and her husband, Trevor. As tensions rise and secrets are revealed, the residents of Nantucket must confront the consequences of their actions and the impact of gossip on their tightly woven community.
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Something in the Water-Catherine Steadman
“Something in the Water” by Catherine Steadman is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the lives of Erin and Mark, a couple whose dream honeymoon takes a sinister turn when they discover something unexpected while scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters of Bora Bora.
After stumbling upon a mysterious plane wreck and a duffel bag filled with cash and diamonds, Erin and Mark are faced with a series of moral dilemmas that threaten to tear them apart. As they grapple with the decision of what to do with their newfound treasure, they find themselves drawn into a dangerous world of crime and deception.
As secrets unravel and loyalties are tested, Erin and Mark must navigate a treacherous web of lies and betrayal in order to protect themselves and those they love. With each twist and turn, the stakes grow higher, and they realize that the consequences of their actions could be deadly.
Depending on your feel for psychological thrillers, this will either be one of the best beach reads as you’re sitting next to the ocean, or a nightmare. But don’t worry, I have some easy beach reads coming for something a little lighter.
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Three Summers-Margarita Liberaki
“Three Summers” by Margarita Liberaki is a poignant coming-of-age novel set in Athens, Greece, during the interwar years. The story unfolds over the course of three summers, as seen through the eyes of three sisters: Maria, Infanta, and Katerina.
Against the backdrop of a changing political and social landscape, the novel explores the intricacies of family dynamics, friendship, and the transition from childhood to adulthood. Each summer brings new experiences and challenges for the sisters as they navigate the complexities of growing up.
As Maria, the eldest sister, grapples with the expectations placed upon her as the responsible one, Infanta revels in her carefree spirit and thirst for adventure. Meanwhile, Katerina, the youngest, observes the world around her with a mixture of innocence and curiosity.
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It Happened One Summer-Tessa Bailey
“It Happened One Summer” by Tessa Bailey is a charming contemporary romance novel that follows the journey of socialite Piper Bellinger as she finds herself exiled to the small fishing town of Westport, Washington. Stripped of her extravagant lifestyle by her stepfather’s ultimatum, Piper must work at her half-sister’s dive bar and confront her privileged upbringing. Along the way, she clashes with the gruff but irresistible local fisherman Brendan, who initially resents her presence in his town.
As Piper adjusts to her new surroundings and forms unexpected connections with the quirky townsfolk, sparks begin to fly between her and Brendan. Through witty banter and sizzling chemistry, Piper and Brendan navigate the highs and lows of romance while confronting their own insecurities and past traumas. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Northwest coast, “It Happened One Summer” is a heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and second chances.
If you find yourself vacationing in the Pacific Northwest or a colder coastal town, this could be one of the best summer books to accompany you.
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The Known World-Edward P Jones
“The Known World” by Edward P. Jones is a powerful and ambitious novel that explores the complexities of slavery and freedom in antebellum America. Set in Virginia in the mid-19th century, the story centers around Henry Townsend, a black farmer who is one of the few African Americans in the county to own slaves himself.
As the novel unfolds, Jones delves into the lives of Henry, his family, and the individuals he enslaves, revealing the intricate web of relationships and power dynamics that shape their existence. Through a series of interconnected narratives, the novel explores the brutal realities of slavery, as well as the ways in which it affects both the oppressed and the oppressor.
At the heart of the story is the moral ambiguity surrounding Henry’s decision to become a slave owner, as well as the complex legacy of slavery that continues to reverberate through generations. As Henry’s world begins to unravel, the novel raises profound questions about race, identity, and the nature of power.
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The Sasquatch Hunter’s Almanac-Sharma Shields
“The Sasquatch Hunter’s Almanac” by Sharma Shields is a captivating and imaginative novel that blends elements of magical realism, folklore, and family drama. The story revolves around Eli Roebuck, a young boy whose life is forever altered when his mother abandons him and his father to run away with a mysterious stranger who claims to have encountered a Sasquatch.
Haunted by his mother’s disappearance and obsessed with the idea of proving the existence of Sasquatch, Eli grows up to become a Sasquatch hunter himself. As he embarks on a quest to track down the elusive creature, he grapples with the complexities of love, loss, and the search for meaning in a world filled with uncertainty.
Interwoven with Eli’s story are tales of other characters whose lives intersect with his own, including his eccentric grandmother, his troubled father, and the enigmatic woman who becomes his wife. Through these interconnected narratives, Shields explores themes of family, identity, and the power of storytelling to shape our understanding of the world.
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The Vanishing Half- Brit Bennett
“The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of race, identity, and family over several decades.
The story revolves around the lives of twin sisters, Desiree and Stella Vignes, who grow up in a small, predominantly black town in Louisiana called Mallard. Despite being inseparable as children, the sisters’ lives take drastically different paths when they run away from home at sixteen. While Desiree returns to Mallard years later with her dark-skinned daughter, Stella decides to pass for white and completely reinvent herself.
As the narrative unfolds, Bennett skillfully weaves together the stories of Desiree, Stella, and their daughters, as well as other characters whose lives intersect with theirs. Through multiple perspectives and timelines, the novel explores the impact of the sisters’ choices on themselves and those around them, as well as the enduring legacy of race and identity in America.
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The Night Circus-Erin Morgenstern
“The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern is a fantastical and enchanting novel set in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At its heart is Le Cirque des Rêves, a mysterious and magical circus that appears without warning and is only open at night.
The story follows two young illusionists, Celia Bowen and Marco Alisdair, who are bound by a mysterious competition orchestrated by their mentors. Unbeknownst to them, they have been groomed since childhood to compete against each other in a magical duel, using the circus as their arena.
As the competition unfolds, Celia and Marco become deeply entangled in a web of enchantment and romance, their destinies irrevocably intertwined. Meanwhile, the circus becomes a sensation, captivating audiences with its breathtaking performances, surreal attractions, and otherworldly wonders.
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This Summer Will Be Different-Carley Fortune
“This Summer Will Be Different” by Carley Fortune is a contemporary novel that follows the intertwining lives of four friends navigating through love, loss, and the complexities of adulthood over the course of a transformative summer in Toronto.
Set against the backdrop of the bustling city, the story delves into the personal struggles and aspirations of each character as they confront their pasts and strive to shape their futures. As secrets are revealed and relationships are tested, the characters discover the true meaning of friendship and the power of forgiveness. Through its poignant narrative and vivid depiction of urban life, the novel explores themes of identity, ambition, and the enduring bonds that hold us together even in the face of change.
What better book to read in summer than a book about transforming yourself over this season.
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The Silent Patient-Alex Michaelides
“The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides is a gripping psychological thriller that revolves around the mysterious case of Alicia Berenson, a renowned painter who murders her husband, Gabriel, in cold blood and then stops speaking altogether.
The story is narrated by Theo Faber, a forensic psychologist who becomes obsessed with Alicia’s case and is determined to uncover the truth behind her silence. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia’s past and her troubled marriage, he discovers a web of secrets and betrayals that lead him to question everything he thought he knew about the case.
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The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo-Taylor Jenkins Reid
“The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid is a captivating and deeply emotional novel that tells the extraordinary story of Hollywood icon Evelyn Hugo and the seven husbands who shaped her life.
The novel is framed as a series of interviews between Evelyn and an unknown journalist named Monique Grant. As Evelyn recounts her life story, from her humble beginnings as an aspiring actress in the 1950s to her rise to fame as one of the most celebrated stars of her generation, she reveals the intimate details of her marriages and the secrets she has kept hidden for decades.
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The Summer Book-Tove Jansson
What better book to read in summer than one literally called The Summer Book. “The Summer Book” by Tove Jansson is a charming and contemplative novel that captures the essence of a summer spent on a remote island in the Gulf of Finland.
The story follows the relationship between six-year-old Sophia and her grandmother as they spend their days exploring the natural beauty of the island, encountering its inhabitants, and engaging in imaginative adventures. Set against the backdrop of the changing seasons, the novel offers a series of vignettes that capture the small joys and quiet moments of life.
You can also read The Winter Book by Tove Jansson, which I include my winter book list.
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The Talented Mr. Ripley-Patricia Highsmith
“The Talented Mr. Ripley” by Patricia Highsmith is a psychological thriller that follows the manipulative and morally ambiguous protagonist, Tom Ripley, as he becomes increasingly embroiled in a web of deceit and murder.
The story begins when Tom is hired by a wealthy businessman to travel to Italy and persuade his son, Dickie Greenleaf, to return home to America. However, once Tom arrives in Italy and meets Dickie, he becomes infatuated with his lavish lifestyle and charismatic personality. As their friendship deepens, Tom’s envy and obsession with Dickie grow, leading him to concoct a plan to assume Dickie’s identity and inherit his wealth.
As Tom delves deeper into his deception, he becomes entangled in a series of lies and betrayals that escalate into acts of violence and murder. With each step he takes to maintain his charade, Tom’s grip on reality begins to unravel, and he descends further into madness and desperation.
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