Get Ready for Summer: Books to Capture the Sun-Kissed Season
Summer is a magical time – the air fills with the scent of flowers, longer days stretch into warm evenings, and a sense of carefree adventure settles over us. If it isn't obvious, the sun has been shining for 2 consecutive days, so obviously that means summer is here! (Ha ha)
To celebrate, here's a curated list of books that will transport you to sandy beaches, enchanting escapades, and swoon-worthy moments sure to make your heart happy.
Reader's Note: I'm an Amazon Associate, which means if you find a book you love through my links, the book fairies might toss me a few coins to add to my TBR pile!
Swoon-Worthy Reads that Sparkle Like the Summer Sun
"Beach Read" by Emily Henry: Dive into this delicious rom-com about two rival authors facing off in a summer-long writing challenge. Witty banter, unexpected chemistry, and a love of books make for the perfect escape.
"People We Meet on Vacation" by Emily Henry: Get ready for wanderlust! Two best friends reunite after years apart, embarking on a journey that rekindles forgotten feelings. Filled with hilarious moments and sweet nostalgia.
"The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood: A STEMinist fake-dating a renowned professor in the science lab? This romance is nerdy, charming, and just the thing for those who love a dash of academia with their happily-ever-afters.
“The Unhoneymooners" by Christina Lauren: Enemies forced to pretend they're newlyweds on a tropical getaway? This hilarious rom-com is just the ticket for poolside giggles.
Adventures & Escapes for When Wanderlust Strikes
"Circe" by Madeline Miller: Immerse yourself in this beautifully rendered retelling of the Greek myth of Circe. Experience her transformation from shunned goddess to a force of nature as she navigates a world of mortals, gods, and monsters.
"The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern: This fantastical novel weaves a tale of magical competition, forbidden love, and a breathtaking traveling circus that appears only at night. Let it sweep you away to a world of wonders.
"Piranesi" by Susanna Clarke: A hauntingly beautiful and thought-provoking short novel exploring themes of identity and reality within a mysterious labyrinthine house lost in time and space.
Feel-Good Stories to Brighten Long Summer Days
"The Flatshare" by Beth O'Leary: If you love quirky characters and the charm of a forced proximity romance, this one's for you. Two cash-strapped roommates share an apartment (and a bed!) but have never met. Their post-it note communication will make you laugh and root for their unexpected love story.
"One Last Stop" by Casey McQuiston: Humorous, heartwarming, and bursting with LGBTQ+ representation, this book follows a young woman who falls for a mysterious girl displaced from the 1970s and trapped on a subway train.
"The Midnight Library" by Matt Haig: A philosophical and life-affirming read about a woman who gets a chance to try out all the lives she could have lived. It's a reminder to embrace the power of choices and the beauty within our own reality.
Nostalgia Trips & Timeless Summers
"Anne of Green Gables" by L.M. Montgomery: Revisiting Anne Shirley's idyllic adventures on Prince Edward Island is always a delight. Her zest for life, unwavering optimism, and heartwarming mishaps never fail to charm.
"The Penderwicks" series by Jeanne Birdsall: Perfect for middle-grade readers or adults craving a wholesome story, follow four sisters on their lively summer adventures filled with friendship, family, and a touch of innocent mischief.
Bonus: Summery YA Picks
“The Summer I Turned Pretty" by Jenny Han: The ultimate coming-of-age beach read filled with first loves, friendship, and those perfect summer days you remember forever.
"We Were Liars" by E. Lockhart: Atmospheric and suspenseful, this YA novel takes place on a private island and is packed with secrets and surprising twists.
Let the Reading Adventures Begin!
Whether you're curled up in a hammock, sprawled out on a beach towel, or planning a cross-country road trip, these books will make the perfect companions. Prepare to be swept away, entertained, and reminded of the simple joys that make summer a season unlike any other.
Let's get those TBRs ready! What are your favorite beach reads? Share in the comments below!