As the temperature rises and vacation plans take shape, book lovers are curating their summer reading lists with as much excitement as planning the perfect beach day. Nothing pairs better with sun and surf than a compelling story that transports you to another world. Whether you’re poolside, lakeside, or simply soaking in the AC, these ten books—handpicked across five beloved genres—promise to add spark to your summer.
We’ve sifted through hundreds of titles to bring you a carefully curated list designed to delight every kind of reader. Whether you crave a swoon-worthy romance, a page-turning thriller, or a thought-provoking memoir, this roundup has something for everyone.
ROMANCE
1. The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand
Join Lizbet Keaton as she takes on a new role managing a once-glamorous hotel on Nantucket, complete with drama, romance, and a resident ghost. With Hilderbrand’s signature island charm, this is the ultimate vacation read.
2. The Kiss Countdown by Etta Easton
Fake dating meets real chemistry in this charming tale of Amerie Price and astronaut Vincent Rogers. It starts as a convenient arrangement, but soon hearts—and plans—begin to shift in the heat of summer.
MYSTERY & THRILLERS
3. First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston
Evie Porter is living a lie—and falling for her target. When the lines between fiction and reality blur, secrets threaten everything. A gripping psychological thriller that sizzles with suspense.
4. Anna O by Matthew Blake
Anna Ogilvy is in a coma after allegedly committing murder. As forensic psychologist Dr. Benedict Prince tries to unlock her mind, chilling truths emerge. This intense page-turner is perfect for those who love a dark twist.
SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY
5. Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
Ryland Grace wakes up alone in space with no memory—and the fate of Earth on his shoulders. Blending smart science and heart, Weir crafts a high-stakes adventure that’s impossible to put down.
6. The Stolen Heir by Holly Black
A runaway queen and a manipulative prince embark on a perilous quest. Rich with fae magic and layered with danger and romance, this fantasy is ideal for fans of immersive, enchanting worlds.
LITERARY & CONTEMPORARY FICTION
7. The Idiot by Elif Batuman
Set in 1995, this coming-of-age novel follows Harvard freshman Selin through an awkward, philosophical, and often hilarious journey of self-discovery, love, and finding one’s voice.
8. Come and Get It by Kiley Reid
Millie Cousins, a senior RA, navigates new friendships and academic intrigue as her life becomes entangled with three wealthy students and a visiting professor. A sharp look at ambition, privilege, and youthful missteps.
NON-FICTION & MEMOIR
9. Perfect Other by Kyleigh Leddy
This intensely personal memoir chronicles Leddy’s search for healing after her sister’s battle with schizophrenia and disappearance. It’s a moving portrait of grief, resilience, and enduring love.
10. Call When You Land by Nikki Vargas
Vargas leaves behind a conventional life to explore the world—and herself. Her transformative travels inspire not just wanderlust but introspection, making this a powerful summer memoir of self-discovery and reinvention.
Bonus: Your Ultimate Summer Reading Companion
These ten reads are just the beginning. We’ve also compiled an extended list of over 100 summer books to fuel your literary cravings all season long in our “100 Days of Summer” reading guide. From beachy escapes to riveting nonfiction, there’s something for every taste and every kind of sunny day.
Download the full list now and keep your summer reads as fresh and fulfilling as your favorite iced coffee. Whether you’re chasing the sun or a plot twist, your next favorite book is waiting.
