Summer is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and get lost in a good book. Whether you’re lounging by the sea or enjoying a week off work at home, I’ve curated a list of engaging, light-hearted page-turners that my social media followers have suggested to keep you entertained all summer long. Here’s our ultimate guide to the best beach reads for book enthusiasts, bookworms, and beach lovers.
I have chosen some of these to take on my holiday but as I got so many suggestions I thought I should put them into a guide to help others looking for a good summer read!
1. The Neighbour from Hell Series by R.L. Mathewson
Get ready for laughs and romance with this delightful series about troublesome neighbours who turn into something more.
2. Seven Summers by Paige Toon
A charming story of love, friendship, and nostalgia that will make you yearn for those long summer days.
Seven Summers: An epic love story from the Sunday Times bestselling author
3. Books by Elsie Silver
Dive into Elsie Silver’s captivating novels full of heart, humour, and unforgettable characters. There are so many but I have linked one I think sounds good below.
Flawless: The must-read, small-town romance and TikTok bestseller! (Chestnut Springs) – Elsie Silver
4. Books by Cathy Bramley
Cathy Bramley’s feel-good tales of community and romance are perfect for a sunny day on the beach. With so many to choose from I have linked one I would love to read below.
5. Getting Rid of Matthew by Jane Fallon
A witty and sharp novel about the complexities of relationships and the unexpected turns they can take.
6. Books by Jane Green
Jane Green’s novels are packed with relatable characters and life’s quirks, making them perfect companions for your beach bag. I fell into a bit of a rabbit hole reading about all of her novels so have linked what I believe to be the first below!
7. Books by Rina Kent
For those who love a bit of intrigue and dark romance, Rina Kent’s books are sure to keep you hooked. I am not sure if these are my cup of tea but have linked one with good ratings below for you to take a look.
Deviant King: Special Edition Print: 1 (Royal Elite Special Edition) – Rina Kent
8. Books by Jojo Moyes
Jojo Moyes’ emotionally rich and beautifully crafted stories are perfect for losing yourself in according to everyone I asked and they do sound good. I have linked the most recent for you below.
Someone Else’s Shoes: The delightful No 1 Sunday Times bestseller – Jojo Moyes
9. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
This bestseller combines mystery, love, and nature in an unforgettable narrative.
10. Books by Colleen Hoover
Colleen Hoover’s gripping and emotional romances will keep you turning the pages apparently! I have never read her books but after suggestions have bought It Ends With Us and just started it this week so I will keep you updated! Another recommendation was Verity so I have linked both for you.
It Ends With Us: The emotional #1 Sunday Times bestseller – Colleen Hoover
Verity: The thriller that will capture your heart and blow your mind – Colleen Hoover
11. Books by Marian Keyes
Marian Keyes’ novels are a delightful mix of humour, warmth, and real-life issues, making them perfect for the beach. My friend Louise recommends these; Watermelon (1995) Rachel’s Holiday (1997) Angels (2002) Anybody Out There? ( 2006) The Mystery of Mercy Close (2012) Mammy Walsh’s A-Z of the Walsh Family (2012) Again, Rachel (2022) My Favourite Mistake (2024)
12. My Name is Anna by Lizzy Barber
A psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end.
13. The Road Trip by Beth O’Leary
Beth O’Leary’s charming and heart-warming novels are like a hug in book form according to a few of my friends. Road Trip is the only one I have read but I really enjoyed it!
The Road Trip: an hilarious and heartfelt second chance romance – Beth O’Leary
14. Someone Else’s Honeymoon by Phoebe Macleod
Follow this entertaining and hilarious story of mistaken identity and unexpected romance.
Someone Else’s Honeymoon: A laugh-out-loud, feel-good romantic comedy – Phoebe MacLeod
15. Books by Jenny Colgan
Jenny Colgan’s uplifting and deliciously entertaining novels are perfect for a sunny afternoon.
16. The Space Between by Sarah Ready
A beautiful story of love and second chances that’s perfect for summer reading.
17. Books by Lindsey Kelk
Lindsey Kelk’s sharp wit and engaging storytelling make for irresistible beach reads apparently, I think they sound good and I was impressed that they have good reviews on Amazon so I am ordering this bundle I think.
18. The Book of Last Letters by Kerry Barrett
A poignant and heartwarming tale that explores love and loss through letters.
19. The Secret Bridesmaid by Katy Birchall
A laugh-out-loud romantic comedy about a professional bridesmaid juggling her clients’ needs and her own love life. This one sounds hilarious and I love the idea of a professional bridesmaid making sure everything goes well!
The Secret Bridesmaid: The laugh-out-loud romantic comedy of the year! – Katy Birchall
20. The Last Charm by Ella Allbright
A heartfelt romance that will make you believe in the power of fate and love. Louise says this is a proper page turner!
21. Just Haven’t Met You Yet by Sophie Cousens
A delightful romantic comedy about serendipity, destiny, and finding love where you least expect it. To me this sounds like the classic beach read, happy and fun reminding you of all those teenage dreams of having a holiday romance!
22. The Love Note by Kate G. Smith
A sweet and enchanting love story that will warm your heart. This one is popular on Kindle and sounds intriguing. Imagine finding a letter with your mum’s wedding dress after she died, could it be from her father?
23. Forget Me Not by Julia Soto
A compelling and romantic story about rediscovering love and happiness.
24. King of Wall Street by Louise Bay
A sizzling romance set in the high-stakes world of New York finance. This is said to be quite raunchy and definitely one for you to read if you like a bit of naughty!
25. Books by K. Bromberg
K. Bromberg’s passionate and intense romances are sure to make your heart race according to one of my friends who highly recommends Off The Grid, the first book in the Full Throttle Series.
26. The Thursday Murder Club Series by Richard Osman
Join a quirky group of retirees as they solve murders in this clever and charming mystery series. This is a book I have had on my “to be read” shelf for a couple of years so now I am determined to read it this year!
The Thursday Murder Club: Thursday Murder Club, Book 1 – Richard Osman
No matter what your taste, this list has something for every reader. Pack one (or several) of these fantastic books in your beach bag and get ready for a summer of great stories.
Happy Reading!
