What’s more indulgent than lounging poolside paging through an incredible book? Reading is a fantastic summertime escape. Catherine Lodge of Language Matters, a Pennfoster.edu community blog, agrees. She says summer is “the best time to indulge in some guilty pleasure books — the perfect companions for the beach or even just sitting on the porch on a nice sunny day.”
Be sure to include the following excellent reads on summer your book list:
“A Hundred Summers” by Beatriz Williams
Beatriz Williams amazed readers with her beautiful language and exciting plot lines in her debut novel, “Overseas.” Now she’s capturing that same passion with a second seaside escape. “A Hundred Summers” transports you right to the beach, which is a great way to feel the ocean breeze and smell the salty sea air, no matter your location. Covering the travails of a 1938 socialite, the book is gossipy enough to make it the perfect steamy summer story, while still maintaining intellectual appeal.
“Revenge Wears Prada” by Lauren Weisberger
Ten years after the publication and hit movie “The Devil Wears Prada,” the beloved Lauren Weisberger returns with another great page-turner about former Miranda Priestly employee, Andy Sachs. Having joined forces with her former nemesis, Andy is now having the time of her life editing her very own bridal magazine. But no matter how successful or self-important she may become, fate seems to have a way of bringing this protagonist back down to Earth.
“Kiss Me First” by Lottie Moggach
A love story you’d assume, but Lottie Moggach’s debut is actually a psychological thriller. Incorporating the concept of social media in a deliciously creepy manner, this is a book for which you’ll want to carve out a reasonable amount of uninterrupted time. Chances are, you won’t be able to put it down once you get started.
“Big Girl Panties” by Stephanie Evanovich
She may share her last name with a popular mystery writer and her first name with that mystery writer’s popular (if frazzled) protagonist. But don’t let that fool you — Stephanie Evanovich is a masterful storyteller in her own right. Covering the romantic and nutritional exploits of a 30-something who has decided to get back in shape, “Big Girl Panties” offers the perfect mix of comedy and romantic intrigue to keep you turning pages long into the night.
“Search Party” by Valerie Trueblood
If you have been feeling a bit hopeless about the economy, your relationships, or your diet, stick your nose in Search Party for a pick-me-up. This collection of short stories follows a number of characters navigating their way through difficult situations. And while the stories are certainly interesting, it’s the sense of hope that really seems to attract readers to this unique collection.
The great thing about this season’s books is that they span such a wide array of genres. Whether you’re looking for a simple summer romance or a complex thriller with tons of twists and turns, you should have no trouble finding a great summer book to keep you entertained on the beach or at the pool.