There’s nothing like a fantastic beach read – or a poolside page turner – to prove it’s the simple things in life that make mom content. When the foolproof formula (warmth + book + breeze) comes together, the trifecta feels downright luxurious! Sometimes even when you can’t escape to a real beach- a great summertime novel will assist you to temporarily escape! Here are some of my favorites from this summer, and from years past. Happy reading, moms!
Living the Simply Luxurious Life by Shannon Ables
I loved this book. In my opinion, it’s a little bits a pieces type of book. I’d pick it up and read a couple of pages here and there. Despite the title, it’s not a book about luxury as the world might see it, but a book about finding the simple things in your life that bring you joy, and creating a luxurious life from those moments and things. If you need a little motivation to elevate your every day, regardless of the season of life you’re in, I promise you will enjoy this book!
One Night on the Island by Josie Silver
This novel by New York Times bestselling author Josie Silver is a classic romantic about two strangers who come together when double-booked at a one room cabin. One Night on the Island explores the meaning of home, the joys of escape, and how the things we think we want are never the things we really need.
Out of the Clear Blue Sky by Kristan Higgins
From New York Times bestselling author Kristan Higgins comes a funny and surprising new novel about losing it all—and getting back more than you ever expected. Super fun, easy read, beautiful Cape Cod setting, and lots of delicious food references! All the perfect combination for an easy summer read.
Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Delia Owens bestselling novel has sold over 12 million copies, and was turned into a movie, produced by Reese Witherspoon – in theaters now! This book was my absolute favorite book when I read it in 2018, and it still is! I’m so excited to see the movie- and I think I want to re-read the book before heading to the theatres!
Summer Love by Nancy Thayer
Old secrets come to light when four friends gather on Nantucket for a life-changing reunion in this heartwarming novel of love and self-discovery by New York Times bestselling author Nancy Thayer. All of my favorite summertime reads are based in Nantucket, have delicious food references, and love stories thrown in the mix. This book fits the bill!
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
Another funny book with real depth, Lessons in Chemistry is about a 1960s scientist who finds herself as host of a cooking show—challenging societal norms every step of the way. Laugh-out-loud funny, shrewdly observant, and studded with a dazzling cast of supporting characters, this book is as original and vibrant as its protagonist.
The Summer Place by Jennifer Weiner
The Summer Place is this year’s ultimate beach read offering from chick-lit queen Jennifer Weiner. This book is a testament to family in all its messy glory; a story about what we sacrifice and how we forgive. Enthralling, witty, big-hearted, and sharply observed, this is Jennifer Weiner’s love letter to the Outer Cape and the power of home, the way our lives are enriched by the people we call family, and the endless ways love can surprise us.
Like a House on Fire by Lauren McBrayer
This debut novel explores the classic conundrum of a somewhat desperate housewife looking for something new. A career – and a romance with her female boss – give her something new and more.
Book Lovers by Emily Henry
Nora Stephens is a literary agent who finds herself in a romantic “meet cute” situation that wouldn’t be out of place in a novel. One summer. Two rivals. A plot twist they didn’t see coming…
Dream On by Angie Hockman
Author Angie Hockman’s sophomore novel about a women who wakes up from a car accident thinking about her “dream man”, who turns out to be real, was called “wonderfully original” by Publishers Weekly.
Something Wilder by Christina Lauren
This book about Lily, a Wild West treasure hunting guide, spans genres of adventure, mystery and romance. This page-turning adventure full of second chances, complicated relationships, and the breathtaking beauty of the American Southwest will take fans on one wild ride.
The Homewreckers by Mary Kay Andrews
Booklist calls this “a perfect summer escape”, and combines the fun of DIY home restoration reality shows, mystery and murder.