Even for those who rarely pick up a book, a vacation is a great way to get in some good reading time.
And when you are on a beach vacation, it’s even more critical to pick just the right book, since it’s inevitably going to be forever in your memory associated along with the trip. Too many times I have had an otherwise lovely trip spoilt because I sat down to begin a day of relaxation, only to realize the book I had brought along just wasnt doing it for me.
And really, who wants to remember that time they went to the beach, but then read that truly awful novel?
Below are five books solidly not in that category that will be a pleasure to reminisce about along with your fantastic tan.
Just Leafing participates in various different affiliate programs. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
An oldie but a goodie! A true story about a mountaineering expedition on Mount Everest gone horribly wrong, the writing evokes the freezing temperatures so vividly that you will feel the chill even when baking under a hot sun.
It’s also enough of a thriller that it will pull you and keep you there through to the end. There is a reason it was such a huge hit when it was first published in 1997.
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
A story of a screen goddess of epic proportions, this book is part nostalgic romance part thriller. You hear the tales of how Evelyn met, wed, and divorced her many husbands and learn the secrets behind what did (and didn't) make their relationships successful.
A definite page-turner, it’s the perfect read to sweep you away while you consume your drink of choice and fantasize about life as a glamorous movie star.
Get the full review of The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo here.
Something in the Water by Catherine Steadman
I know I know, it's a little on the nose. But trust me, this book is the perfect beach read to spur your mind to live out the ultimate “what if” fantasy.
What if on your vacation you see something in the water that when you investigate, completely upends your life and your most important relationships?
You get to find out because that’s what happens to the newlyweds in this book novel by Catherine Steadman. I guarantee it's a thriller that will have you scanning the waves in front of you, just to be sure. No more can be said without spoilers, so just do yourself a favor and pack in your beach bag.
Outlander by Diana Gabaldon
There is a reason this book (and the series that follows it) have been so successful. It is so. Damn. GOOD.
It’s written in such a way that makes you think, how did I not know that I always dreamed of traveling through time to meet my soul mate, an eighteenth-century Scotsman? Because that is absolutely something I dream about now. This book might be best suited to those traveling alone though because if not, your companions are definitely going to be upset when you keep missing activities to keep reading.
On the other hand, it will take the sting off a beach day being rained out since again, you get to keep reading… So, just pack this book. You won't regret it!
Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Another novel by the impressive Taylor Jenkins Reid, this story of rock and roll is told as interviews from the key players in a drama as it unfolded years before.
Daisy Jones and the Six is a book that evokes a lot of complicated emotions. Two different artists, a band and a singer, combine to create a supergroup that breaks apart just as soon as they are getting noticed. The how and why are explained in a highly crafted way that still feels so natural, and makes you want to find the nearest club to go listen to some live music.
My favorite parts are the descriptions of what it feels like to get a piece of music just right, or performing in front of an audience. As an author, Taylor Reid Jenkins makes it so easy to step in the artist's shoes and feel like a rock star. Both the good and the bad.
Looking for another great book by this author? Check out The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo.
Looking to make reading a more regular thing? Why not start a book club! Check out my article on How to Form a Book Club for tips on creating the ideal club for your lifestyle.
