The Best Books to Read This Summer: Your Ultimate Bookish Getaway

Summer—long days, warm nights, and the perfect excuse to dive into a good book. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, chilling at the beach, or just enjoying the comfort of your own air-conditioned living room, there’s no better time to crack open a new read. But with so many options, where do you start? Well, buckle up because I’ve got a list that’ll have you reading from dawn until dusk (and maybe even well into the night).

1. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
If you’re craving a juicy, glamorous read with a side of heartbreak, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” is your ticket to Hollywood stardom—without the pesky paparazzi. Follow the enigmatic Evelyn Hugo, a legendary actress, as she reveals the truth behind her seven marriages in a tell-all interview. It’s filled with twists, turns, and enough drama to keep you flipping pages like there’s no tomorrow. Plus, it’ll make you wish you had a cocktail in hand while lounging in a sun hat, even if you’re just sitting on your couch.

2. “Circe” by Madeline Miller
If mythology gets you all fired up (and let’s face it, who doesn’t love a bit of Greek mythology?), “Circe” is the book to add to your summer reading list. This modern retelling of the story of Circe, the powerful witch from Homer’s Odyssey, is not only a deep dive into mythology but also a feminist triumph. With lush prose, an enchanting plot, and a powerful lead character, this book will make you feel like you’re under a spell that you never want to break. Just beware, you may find yourself saying “I’ll just read one more chapter” well into the night.

3. “The Midnight Library” by Matt Haig
Ever wondered what your life would be like if you made different choices? “The Midnight Library” explores this question in the most heartwarming and thought-provoking way. Nora Seed, our protagonist, finds herself in a library where each book represents a version of her life—one where she made different decisions. This one’s perfect if you want to contemplate life’s “what ifs” while enjoying the summer breeze. It’s uplifting, philosophical, and as comforting as a cup of warm tea, except with more time travel.

4. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
A Southern Gothic masterpiece, “Where the Crawdads Sing” is the type of book that will make you long for a quiet, swampland escape. Kya Clark, known as the “Marsh Girl,” is both an outcast and an enigma in her small town. As she grows up, she becomes a master of survival, all while a mysterious death unfolds around her. It’s part mystery, part coming-of-age, and part love story—all wrapped up in the beauty of nature. It’s the perfect read for anyone who loves a slow-burn mystery with deep emotional resonance.

5. “Project Hail Mary” by Andy Weir
If you need a high-octane, brainy read to get your heart racing this summer, then look no further than “Project Hail Mary.” From the author of The Martian, Andy Weir brings you another space adventure, but this time with a twist. Ryland Grace wakes up in space with no memory of who he is, how he got there, or what his mission even is. All he knows is that it involves saving humanity. Weir’s signature mix of humor, science, and heart will keep you hooked. Plus, there’s nothing like reading about space exploration to make you feel like you’ve truly escaped to another world.

6. “Normal People” by Sally Rooney
Looking for a book that feels like an emotional rollercoaster? Normal People will take you on just that. Follow Connell and Marianne through their complicated and intense relationship as they navigate the highs and lows of love, friendship, and growing up. Rooney’s writing is so raw and real that you’ll likely find yourself rooting for or even criticizing these characters as if they were your best friends. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve turned the final page, making it the perfect companion for a lazy summer afternoon.

7. “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
If you’re in the mood for a compelling family drama with deep themes of identity and race, The Vanishing Half is a brilliant pick. The story revolves around twin sisters, Desiree and Stella, who grow up in a small, segregated town in the Deep South. As adults, they go on completely different paths—one stays in the town, while the other passes for white in the bigger city. This novel is beautifully written, thought-provoking, and will make you reflect on societal expectations, identity, and family ties long after you’ve finished reading.

8. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
No, this isn’t a fluff piece (well, it kind of is, but in the best way possible). Emily Henry’s Beach Read is a smart, witty romance that’s perfect for a summer getaway. The story follows two writers—January, a romance novelist, and Augustus, a literary fiction author—who are stuck in a writer’s block standoff. They swap genres for the summer, with hilariously complicated results. It’s a charming, sweet, and swoon-worthy book, perfect for when you need to balance out the heavy reads on your list.

9. “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara
Okay, let’s get one thing straight: A Little Life is not for the faint of heart. It’s a beautiful, devastating, and gut-wrenching novel about four college friends navigating adulthood, with a particular focus on Jude, whose past is filled with unspeakable trauma. It’s one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve finished reading it—and if you’re looking for a book that’s emotionally powerful and deeply moving, this one fits the bill. Just make sure to have some tissues nearby… you’ll need them.

10. “Red, White & Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston
Looking for a fun, queer romance that will give you all the feels? Look no further than Red, White & Royal Blue. When Alex, the First Son of the United States, and Prince Henry of Wales are forced to fake a friendship to improve diplomatic relations, sparks fly in more ways than one. This book is lighthearted, funny, and filled with witty banter. Plus, it’s a love story that’ll make you believe in the magic of summer romance all over again.

Bonus Round: The E-Book Club Picks
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider reading some e-books on your Kindle or phone while lounging by the pool. These picks are perfect for scrolling between sunbathing sessions:

• “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern (For a magical, atmospheric read)
• “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides (For the mystery lover who wants to be on the edge of their seat)
• “Big Little Lies” by Liane Moriarty (For a darkly humorous take on suburban drama)

So, there you have it—your perfect summer reading list. Whether you’re looking for juicy drama, thought-provoking plots, or a lighthearted romance, these books are guaranteed to keep you entertained all season long. The only question left is: which one will you start with?

Happy reading, and may your summer be as epic as the books you’re about to devour! 📚☀️