As John Donne would have said; the sun is stretching its golden fingers, and the waves are crashing against the sandy shores, inviting you to dive into the best summer reads of 2023.
This year’s crop of summer books is a diverse tapestry. From endearing romances that gently tug at your heartstrings to thrilling mysteries that keep you guessing, and even the allure of literary fiction, there’s something to keep you entertained all season long.
So go ahead and pick up your best summer read, toss in the sunscreen alongside, and let’s get reading!
23 Best Summer Reads of 2033
Whether you’re lounging at the beach, embracing the serenity of the mountains, or exploring the vibrant streets of a new city, I hope you find something you enjoy from this varied list of best summer books.
“Tom Lake” by Ann Patchett: A Soul-Stirring Exploration of Shared Connection and Dreams
A bittersweet exploration of connection, love, and the threads that bind us to one another, Tom Lake is both hopeful and elegiac. Selected by Reese Witherspoon’s book club as one of the best summer reads, the novel intertwines a woman’s personal journey with a family narrative.
Lara recounts her summer at Tom Lake’s summer stock theater, where she fell in love with fellow actor Peter Duke in her twenties. As she revisits her past, her daughters reevaluate their connection with her, prompting a reassessment of their perspectives and beliefs.
Patchett’s atmospheric prose transcends time and place. As the characters’ lives unfold, Tom Lake becomes a testament to the enduring power of human relationships and how our paths intersect. With each page, you’ll find yourself immersed in a tale of profound connection that reminds us of the beauty of shared experiences.
If you’re seeking a book that captures the essence of what it means to be human – to feel, to love, and to form bonds that go beyond time and distance – Tom Lake is a literary voyage that you won’t want to miss this year.
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“The Whispers” by Ashley Audrain: A Riveting Dive into Familial Shadows
Ashley Audrain’s The Whispers is a psychological thriller that peels back the layers of inherited trauma and unspoken secrets, taking readers into a realm where the whispers of the past cast long shadows on the present.
The haunting tale examines the unsettling realities of motherhood and loyalty through the distinct perspectives of four women. Despite their dissimilarities, these women find unexpected connections among themselves, united by the shared pressures imposed by the challenges of motherhood.
From the outset, you’ll find yourself captivated by the raw emotions and intricacies of the characters’ relationships. Audrain masterfully weaves a narrative that navigates the thin line between truth and illusion, leaving you questioning the boundaries of perception.
If you crave a gripping page-turner that deals with the complexities of family dynamics and the haunting power of the past, this novel is a must-add to your basket of best summer reading list.
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“Be Mine” by Richard Ford: A Tender Overture to Love’s Symphony
Captivating and introspective, Be Mine, the final novel in the world of Frank Bascombe, explores the complexity of human desires and the paths we tread to find fulfillment.
Set against the backdrop of suburban life, the story follows Frank Bascombe, a complex and relatable protagonist, as he navigates the intricacies of relationships, identity, and the passage of time. Frank finds himself grappling with his past and the choices that have shaped his present reality.
Through Ford’s exquisite prose, readers are invited into Frank’s mind as he contemplates the joys, regrets, and uncertainties of his life’s journey. As he interacts with a cast of well-drawn characters, each encounter becomes a lens through which Ford examines the subtle nuances of human interactions. The book delves into themes of love, loss, and the search for meaning, all while offering a poignant reflection on the American Dream and its complexities.
Ford’s adept storytelling and vivid portrayal of Frank’s internal struggles make Be Mine an engaging and thought-provoking read. It is a must-read for those who seek a profound and immersive literary experience that lingers long after the final page.
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“Meet Me at the Lake” by Carley Fortune: A Heartfelt Journey of Friendship and Transformation
Meet Me at the Lake is the hotly anticipated summer romance of 2023 by Carley Fortune, the celebrated author of Every Summer After.
Fern Brookbanks and Will Baxter, both twenty-two, cross paths in Toronto, spending a single but forever memorable day together. Despite their strong connection, they agree to part ways, vowing to meet again after a year but Will stood her up. At last—nine years later, he shows up with a suitcase.
Set against the calm backdrop of a lake, this novel is a poignant exploration of the connections that shape us and the solace that can be found in unexpected places. As the characters navigate the twists and turns of life’s challenges, you’ll be reminded of the strength that blooms from the bonds of friendship.
Fortune’s words bring out feelings like colors on a canvas, making you feel like you’re right there. Her writing is funny and playful, and the characters feel like friends from your own life. Fern and Will’s story feels real, like stories you’ve heard from your pals.
If you’re looking for a summer novel that celebrates the beauty of friendship and the transformative journey of finding oneself, Meet Me at the Lake is a book that should be on your summer list.
Social Engagement” by Avery Carpenter Forrey: A Modern Tale of Connections and Contradictions
A thought-provoking, modern story that explores both connections and contradictions of our digital age, Social Engagement is a must-read this summer.
The story is about a wedding gone wrong, a bride with regrets, and how social media makes relationships seem different from what they really are.
Set against the backdrop of a fast-paced society, readers are introduced to characters whose lives intersect across digital landscapes and shared experiences. Forrey deftly navigates the tensions between the online personas we curate and the authentic selves we strive to express.
As the characters confront dilemmas that mirror our struggles with identity and belonging, Social Engagement questions the authenticity of our connections and considers the transformative power of genuine human interaction.
If you’re seeking a novel that will prompt introspection and spark conversations about the role of technology in our lives, this is a binge-able read about millennial wedding culture and how social media affects us all.
“The Wind Knows My Name” by Isabel Allende: An Epic Journey of Self-Discovery
In her latest novel, The Wind Knows My Name, Isabel Allende weaves a grand tapestry of historical fiction that sweeps readers into an immersive world of beauty, hardship, and the unbreakable bonds that tie us to our roots.
The story revolves around two young immigrants: a boy fleeing Nazi-occupied Vienna in 1938 and a girl escaping military gangs in El Salvador in 2019. Their paths converge and diverge in unexpected ways as they each journey to find a place to call home.
From the very first page, you’ll be swept away by Allende’s sumptuous prose. Her vivid writing brings characters to life in all their complexity and vulnerability. The meticulous research that she does creates an experience that is educational and emotionally resonant.
If you’re drawn to epic tales that span generations and cultures, this novel promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you enriched and inspired.
“Happy Hour” by Marlowe Granados: Sip, Savor, and Swoon
Happy Hour is an effervescent celebration of life’s highs and lows, wrapped in the glitz and glamor of city life. Bursting with energy and charm, this book captures the essence of summer fun and the camaraderie that comes with it.
The story follows a young woman who arrives in New York City from London for the summer, hoping to find solace and cope with her mother’s recent passing. Granados’ narrative reads like the perfect mix of a sparkling summer cocktail: a little bit sweet, a touch bitter, and undeniably intoxicating. The characters navigate the twists and turns of love, friendship, and the pursuit of success, all while savoring the magic of the city that never sleeps.
If you’re looking for a novel that captures the pulse of urban life and the beauty of chasing after your passions, this book is a must-imbibe for your summer reading list.
“Stone Cold Fox” by Rachel Koller Croft: A Riveting Dance of Suspense and Intrigue
A new summer novel, Stone Cold Fox is a riveting thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story follows Bea, an ambitious woman who is determined to leave her past behind and marry into a wealthy family. As she sets her sights on Collin, the heir to a prominent fortune, she becomes entangled in a web of lies, betrayals, and unexpected twists.
Croft’s writing is taut and suspenseful, and she does a masterful job of building tension. With a mix of heartwarming moments and unexpected twists, Stone Cold Fox is a must-read for fans of suspense thrillers.
“Yellowface” by Rebecca F. Kuang: A Thought-Provoking Exploration of Identity
A pulse-pounding narrative that challenges norms and sparks conversation, Yellowface is a thought-provoking journey into the intricacies of identity, culture, and the masks we wear to fit in. The story follows a young white writer who steals and completes the manuscript left behind by her deceased Asian friend, subsequently releasing it under her name.
Kuang’s prose is a symphony of eloquence and emotion, inviting readers to step into the shoes of characters who navigate the challenges of living between cultures and the power of finding one’s voice.
The novel is a must-read for anyone who is interested in exploring the nuances of cultural identity and the courage it takes to break free from imposed narratives.
“Happy Place” by Emily Henry: A Whimsical Escape of Dreams and Discovery
A heartwarming and poignant exploration of the journey to self-acceptance and healing, Emily Henry’s Happy Place is a literary treasure chest brimming with whimsy, imagination, and the joy of embracing the extraordinary in the ordinary. Wyn and Harriet, an ideal couple, secretly broke up, yet their friends remain oblivious. As their annual Maine trip approaches, they feign a relationship. Can they successfully deceive their closest companions?
Set against a backdrop of sun-soaked landscapes, the book takes the reader to a world where magic dances at the edges of reality, and the power of dreams takes center stage. Henry’s prose is a symphony of enchantment, inviting readers to explore the profound connections that tie us to our innermost desires and the people who share our journeys. As you follow the characters’ quests to find their happy places, you’ll be reminded of the enchantment that can be found in every corner of life.
If you’re seeking a novel that will awaken your sense of wonder and inspire you to find joy in the smallest moments, this book is a must-read that will leave you with a smile on your face and a newfound appreciation for life’s enchantments.
“Everything’s Fine’ by Cecilia Rabess: Unmasking the Layers of Life
Everything’s Fine is a remarkable debut novel by Cecilia Rabess that delves into the complexities of interracial relationships through the perspectives of Jess and Josh, two recent graduates who are drawn to each other despite their differences.
Rabess skillfully weaves together the story of Jess and Josh with the larger social and political landscape of the United States, providing a nuanced and timely look at the challenges and triumphs of interracial love. The novel is also a moving meditation on the nature of loss, love, and the human condition.
If you’re looking for a book that will stay with you long after you finish reading it, then Everything’s Fine is one of the best summer read. It is a powerful and moving novel that will challenge you to think about love, race, and life in new ways.
“Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Beth Nguyen: A Heartfelt Tale of Connection
Beth Nguyen’s Owner of a Lonely Heart is a symphony of palpable emotions that resonates deeply with the human experience. This heartfelt memoir explores themes of family, absence, and the refugee experience, all centered around Beth’s relationship with her mother, who left Vietnam after the war and struggled to adjust to life in America.
With grace and sensitivity, Nguyen introduces us to characters searching for meaning and companionship in unexpected places. As their lives intersect and intertwine, the book becomes a celebration of the bonds that shape us, the love that supports us, and the incredible journeys that unfold when we reach out to others.
Nguyen’s storytelling is imbued with empathy and warmth, making it easy to connect with the characters and their experiences. If you’re looking for a book that reminds you of the beauty of human connection and the impact of small acts of kindness, then Owner of a Lonely Heart is a book that you will want to read.
“Save What’s Left” by Elizabeth Castellano: A Resonant Journey of Reflection
A hilarious and entertaining debut novel, Save What’s Left follows a woman’s move to a tranquil beach town in search of serenity, only to be thrust into a full-scale conflict with her neighbors. It’s a story of forgiveness, fortitude, and second chances, inviting the readers to ponder the beauty of the human experience and the legacy we leave behind.
With its evocative prose and characters who echo the struggles and triumphs of everyday life, the narrative feels both personal and universal. As the characters navigate challenges, regrets, and the pursuit of meaning, the book reminds us of the power of reflection and the opportunity to create a life that is both meaningful and true to our hearts.
Read this if you’re seeking an experience that encourages you to pause, reflect, and find meaning in everyday moments.
“Summer on Sag Harbor” by Sunny Hostin: An Enchanting Retreat of Friendship and Discovery
Full of humor, heart, and suspense, Sunny Hostin’s Summer on Sag Harbor is a heartwarming novel that beautifully illustrates the strength of friendship, family, and self-discovery. The narrative follows Olivia, a young woman who returns to her family’s summer residence in Sag Harbor after a protracted absence. There she reconnects with her childhood friends and begins to uncover the secrets of her family’s past.
One of the things that makes Summer on Sag Harbor so special is its focus on the importance of relationships. Olivia’s friendships with her childhood friends are a source of strength and support for her, and they help her to heal from the pain of her past. Her relationship with her family is also complex and evolving, but it is ultimately a source of love and belonging.
Summer on Sag Harbor is a reminder to embrace life’s beauty and savor every moment. If you’re looking for a book that radiates positivity, camaraderie, and the spirit of discovery, this book is a gem that will leave you smiling long after the final page.
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“Trespasses” by Louise Kennedy: An Intricate Story of Secrets and Redemption
Intriguing, evocative, and emotionally resonant, Trespasses by Louise Kennedy weaves an intricate narrative that explores the hidden corners of the human heart. Set in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, the story follows Cushla Lavery, a young woman who is torn between loyalty to her community and a dangerous passion.
Kennedy’s prose is moving and lyrical, and she paints a vivid portrait of a time and place that is still haunted by the past. The characters are complex and well-developed, and the story brims with suspense, intrigue, and heartbreak.
But Trespasses is more than just a historical novel. It is also a story about the power of secrets, betrayal, and redemption. Cushla’s journey embodies self-discovery and self-forgiveness, teaching her that it’s possible to find peace even amidst conflict.
As one of the best summer reads of the year, Trespasses offers a compelling narrative that you will devour.
“The Five-Star Weekend” by Elin Hilderbrand: A Luxurious Escape of Intrigue and Romance
Elin Hilderbrand’s The Five-Star Weekend is a luxurious escape of intrigue and romance that seamlessly weaves together the allure of high society and the complexities of human relationships. With its lush setting and relatable characters, the novel offers a delightful escape into the world of friendship and self-discovery.
The book traces the journey of Hollis Shaw, a renowned food blogger, as she seeks solace with her friends on a weekend getaway in Nantucket following a personal loss. As the characters navigate a weekend filled with opulent parties, hidden agendas, and unexpected revelations, you’ll find yourself ensnared in a web of intrigue that keeps you guessing until the very last page.
Elin Hilderbrand’s storytelling prowess shines as she weaves a narrative of ambition, desire, and the complexity of human relationships.
If you’re looking for a novel that whisks you away to luxurious settings and surrounds you with riveting suspense, then this book is a perfect fit for your sizzling summer escapades.
“A Quitter’s Paradise” by Elysha Chang: A Bold Odyssey of Reinvention
Elysha Chang’s debut novel, A Quitter’s Paradise, orchestrates a symphony of courage and reinvention. The story follows a young woman named Eleanor who is grappling with her mother’s death while also confronting hidden family truths.
The story is both provocatively sharp and compulsively engaging. It explores grief, family bonds, and self-discovery in an unexpectedly humorous way. Eleanor’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to embrace change and step away from the familiar.
Chang’s prose is a breath of fresh air. It is infused with a sense of empowerment that resonates with anyone who has ever dared to follow their heart. A Quitter’s Paradise is a must-read book that will ignite your courage to pursue your dreams.
“Family Lore” by Elizabeth Acevedo: A Gripping Saga of Love and Legacy
Penned by a bestselling author and National Book Award winner, Family Lore is a masterpiece of storytelling that sweeps readers into a world of family secrets, love’s complexities, and the enduring impact of the past. The narrative delves into a Dominican-American family, narrated by its women, as they anticipate an event that will irrevocably alter their lives.
Acevedo’s evocative prose weaves a narrative tapestry that spans generations and continents. As the characters confront the mysteries of their family’s history, Family Lore becomes an exploration of the ties that bind us and the stories that shape our identities. With each page, you’ll be drawn into a saga of love, resilience, and the way our ancestors’ lives echo in our own.
An ode to the power of storytelling, the book reminds us that the stories of our ancestors have the power to shape our destinies. If you’re seeking a novel that celebrates the complexity of family bonds and the beauty of heritage, this book is a must-add to your summer reading list.
“Good Fortune” by C. K. Chau: An Enchanting Tale of Fate and Adventure
A journey of self-discovery and cultural exploration, Good Fortune offers a window into the intertwining of fate and choice. This clever and delightful debut novel offers a modern reinterpretation of Pride and Prejudice, unfolding in a contemporary Chinatown. The story delves into current themes of class distinctions, family bonds, cultural heritage, and the complex emotions of romance.
Set against a backdrop of intrigue and excitement, this novel is a celebration of the unknown and the magic that emerges when we embrace the unexpected. Chau’s prose is wonderful, guiding readers through a narrative that’s equal parts heart-pounding and heartwarming.
The book reminds us that our destinies are shaped by the choices we make and the adventures we embark upon. If you’re looking for a novel that celebrates the magic of life’s unexpected turns and the courage it takes to embrace them, this book is a must-read that will leave you inspired to embark on your own journey of discovery.
“Time’s Mouth” by Edan Lepucki: A Mind-Bending Expedition into Time’s Embrace
Time’s Mouth by Edan Lepucki is a mind-bending expedition into time’s embrace. This family saga blends the mystique of time travel with profound meditations on the human condition, exploring the passage of various forms of loss across successive generations of mothers and children.
The story begins in 1950s California, where Ursa, a young woman with the ability to travel through memory, finds herself at the center of a cultish community of women. As Ursa’s powers grow, she begins to use them to manipulate the past, present, and future. Her actions have a profound impact on her daughter, Cherry, and her granddaughter, Opal, whose lives are forever intertwined by the enigmatic phenomenon known as “Time’s Mouth.”
Lepucki’s prose is lush and evocative, transporting readers to the rich and varied landscapes of each era. Her characters are complex and well-developed, and their relationships are deeply moving.
The Best Summer Reads That Are Not From 2023
“The Summer I Turned Pretty” by Jenny Han: A Nostalgic Ode to Coming of Age (2009)
If you don’t mind a summer read that’s a bit old release then consider lounging under the sun-drenched pages of The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han.
First in a trilogy, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a classic tale of coming of age, love, and the bittersweet magic of summer. The story revolves around sixteen-year-old Belly Conklin, who spends her summers at the beach house of her mother’s best friend, and her anticipated reunion with her long-standing crush, Conrad. However, as the season unfolds, Belly grapples with shifting dynamics and her emotional journey, prompting her to navigate her feelings, relationships, and personal history.
Han’s prose is a nostalgic reverie that transports readers back to the bittersweet days of youth, where friendships deepened, secrets surfaced, and love bloomed like wildflowers. As they follow Belly’s journey, readers will find themselves reminiscing about their own summers of growth and transformation.
A nostalgic and heartfelt novel, The Summer I Turned Pretty evokes the universal experience of growing up and finding one’s place in the world. This novel can transport you to the days of youth and reminds you of the power of change, this is one of the best summer tomes that you must read.
The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther: A Romance inspired by the songs of Taylor Swift (2021)
Praised for modern-day romance, The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther is a coming-of-age novel inspired by the songs of Taylor Swift. The story follows Meredith Fox, a young woman who is struggling to reconnect with the world after the death of her sister. She decides to participate in her family’s annual game of assassin at a summer wedding on Martha’s Vineyard, hoping that it will help her to heal.
Walther’s prose is a breath of fresh air, infusing every page with a sense of wonder and emotion. The characters are endearing and relatable, each facing their struggles and triumphs. Through their experiences, The Summer of Broken Rules delves into themes of empowerment, authenticity, and the transformative power of embracing one’s true self.
If you’re searching for a story that celebrates individuality, resilience, and the unforgettable moments that shape our lives, this novel promises an unforgettable journey that will warm your heart long after summer fades.
“Every Summer After” by Carley Fortune: A Heartfelt Ode to Seasons of Change (2022)
An exquisite blend of romance, nostalgia, and the bittersweet symphony of life’s twists and turns, Carley Fortune’s evocative story will transport you to a world where emotions run deep and memories linger. Spanning six years and a single transformative weekend, Every Summer After presents a moving exploration of love and resilience.
The novel, written by an emerging voice in contemporary fiction, follows the lives of two protagonists, Percy and Sam, as they navigate the challenges of life, love, and personal growth throughout several summers. With deft prose and an uncanny ability to capture the ebb and flow of emotions, Fortune creates a narrative tapestry that stretches across the years, weaving a heartfelt story of growth, connection, and the enduring power of human bond.
If you’re seeking a novel that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you reflecting on the seasons of your own life, this is a summer read you won’t want to miss.
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