Since I'm finished up the Harry Potter series, I thought I'd tell you my all time favorite books to read in the Summer. I love reading in the summer. It's just the best way to get lost and relax. Some are new, some are classics, and some are just scream “read me at the beach!” Which means, some are page-turners while others let you relax and listen to the waves. Either way, they're a safe bet.
1. The Crowning Glory of Calla Lilly Ponder by Rebecca Wells
I've raved about this book before, but it's just such a perfect Summer read, I couldn't help not mentioning it. Artfully written, this is the perfect book for any girl in her teens and older. It's passionately southern and features strong-willed female characters the reader can identify with on a personal level. At least, this spitfire can.
2. The Lufthansa Heist by Henry Hill and Daniel Simone
Michael and I listened to this on Audible for all our road trips. It's the perfect for men and women and it covers the real life event in which a New York mob managed to steal the largest sum of unrecovered cash in history. It's gritty and raw and even funny. The fact that it's true is even more delightful, and also crazy.
3. Bergdorf Blondes by Plum Skies
This book is silly but witty. I read it on the beach this past week and it was the best way to relax out of the heat and prop my sandy feet up. Ridiculous and haughty, I loved every minute of this book. Following New York's socialites as they try to scale the social ladder in heels and the perfect shade of blonde hair. Not life changing, but a fun read.
4. Eight Hundred Grapes by Laura Dave
I will admit I love mystery novels. Liane Moriarty has stolen my heart and I was desperate to find something similar. This book definitely quenched my thirst for more. It's a page-turner and will keep you guessing.
5. The Beach by Alex Garland
I did not think I would like this book but I felt totally engrossed by this book. Haunting and captivating, yet really cool scenery, I was hooked the whole time. This is not a book I would typically read, and it's a little, well, scary, but it's totally a great summer read. Just don't read this if you're actually in Thailand…
6. The Vacationers by Emma Straub
I could read this book again and again. This story is about a somewhat dysfunctional family taking a trip to Majorca, an island off the coast of Spain. Each member of the family is going through something completely different but she sprinkles humor and lovable portraits of the characters. You'll totally relate to this, plus hello beautiful imagery.
7. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
This is a heavier read, but so interesting. I hated All The Light We Cannot See, and this book helps to soften the blow. Also set in Paris during World War II, yet such a more captivating story about two sisters and how their lives are drastically changed.
8. The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins
If you liked Gone Girl chances are you'll like this. I wasn't as impressed- the story is preposterous…. sorry. But it's still a fun read. This is a thriller that expertly delivers each layer of a woman's twisted story, her odd obsession and how it affects her life.
What are you reading this Summer?
P.S. Here's a month FREE of Audible. I am obsessed.
