Best books for summer reading by the pool, including best selling novels and new recommendations.
This post contains affiliate links.
I love a good summer read. Whether it's a thriller, a comedy, or a tear jerker, the best summer books are the ones you can get lost in. My perfect summer day would be sitting poolside with a frosty cocktail and a pile of books. Now that I have toddlers, I don't get those days very often, but I can still appreciate a good book (and a good drink!). If you're looking for a perfect novel to enjoy by the beach or in the backyard, I've got some great recommendations.
Must Read Books for Summer
Wreckage by Emily Bleeker. I actually read this over the winter and I could not put it down. I value my sleep and this book kept me up turning pages late into the night. Wreckage tells the story of two survivors of a plane crash who are rescued after nearly two years on a deserted island. They are lying to everyone about what happened on the island... what is their secret and what will happen if it comes out? You will be on the edge of your seat to find out.
The Girl on the Train by Paula Hawkins. Another page turning thriller, this #1 New York Times Bestseller will soon be made into a movie. The Girl on the Train follows the story of the mysterious disappearance of a woman named Megan through the voices and perspectives of several narrators, including one who is not sure exactly what she remembers from the night Megan disappeared. If you like the narrative style of Gone Girl this one is for you.
Carpe Demon by Julie Kenner. If you're looking for something light then the Demon Hunting Soccer Mom series is a perfect choice. Think Buffy the Vampire Slayer grows up and becomes a suburban stay at home mom. Kate Connor thinks she's retired... until a demon crashes through her kitchen window. Carpe Demon is the first of six novels in the series - I've read them all and even though I am not usually a fan of demons and fantasy, these books are hilarious and great escapist fiction. (PS - Carpe Demon is free on Kindle right now!)
Skinny Dip by Carl Hiaasen. Carl Hiaasen is an author that never fails to make me laugh, and this is one my favorites. Skinny Dip tells the story of Joey Perrone, whose clueless husband Chaz tries to kill her by throwing her overboard a cruise ship. She survives to make his life miserable with the help of a crazy cast of characters that only Carl Hiaasen could invent.
Summer Sisters by Judy Blume. If you loved Judy Blume as a young girl then you definitely need to read Summer Sisters. A classic story of friendship between two women stretching back to 1977, this book will make you nostalgic for summers of your youth and will resonate with anyone that's ever had a lifelong friend.
From Some Friends
I also asked some of my blogging friends for recommendations for summer reads - here's a couple of their picks:
"Anything by Elin Hilderbrand ... Just one glimpse at her covers tells you it's a beach read, all Nantucket based, but not trashy, great family/generational saga type stories" - Meghan, Playground Parkbench.
Check out The Matchmaker or her new book, The Rumor, coming out on June 16."The Blossom Street Series by Debbie Macomber is fun and endearing. They leave you feeling good about crafting, and longing for your friends" Evelyne, Nemcsok Farms.Check out the first book in the series, The Shop on Blossom Street.
What I Can't Wait to Read this Summer
Two of my favorite authors have new books coming out this summer and I can not wait to check them out!
In the Unlikely Event by Judy Blume. Just released this month, Judy Blume's new novel for adults follows three generations of families whose lives are forever changed.
Summer Secrets by Jane Green. I'm a huge fan of Jane Green and I've already pre-ordered Summer Secrets (it's releasing on June 23). Summer Secrets promises to be a perfect beach read!
Love this? Pin it here!
