Essential Late Summer Reads
Introduction
As summer begins winding down and the beach days start coming to an end , there’s still plenty of time to soak up the sun with a good book in hand. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or relaxing on your porch, these books are perfect for making the most of the rest of summer. Here are my top picks for the best books to read before the summer ends!
Summer Reading List
1. Beach Read by Emily Henry
What would a summer reads list be without Emily Henry’s “Beach Read” included? This wonderful story follows January Andrews, a romance writer, and Augustus Everett, a literary fiction author, who are both facing writer’s block. When they end up living next door to each other for the summer, they make a deal to swap genres, leading to unexpected discoveries and an absolutely swoon-worthy romance. “Beach Read” is not only one of my favorite works from Emily Henry, but the ultimate book to read in summer.
2. Trial of the Sun Queen (Artefacts of Ouranos, #1) by Nisha J. Tuli
Brace yourself for an epic journey with “Trial of the Sun Queen” by Nisha J. Tuli. This fantasy centers around Lor, a young woman who finds herself entangled in a deadly competition to become the next Sun Queen. Facing trials and opponents, Lor must harness her hidden powers and navigate a world of intrigue and danger. With stunning world-building and a relatable heroine, this book is perfect for those craving an escape into a high-stakes adventure. Ideal for soaking up the last rays of summer, “Trial of the Sun Queen” is The Bachelor meets The Hunger Games, giving you the perfect dose of romantasy before the summer ends.
3. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry
Who would have thought? Another Emily Henry novel makes the list. Emily Henry strikes again with “People We Meet on Vacation,” a heartwarming story about Poppy and Alex, best friends who couldn’t be more different. For ten years, they’ve taken a summer vacation together, but after a falling out, they haven’t spoken in two years. Poppy convinces Alex to take one last trip, hoping to mend their friendship. This friends-to-lovers book is filled with enough humor and heart to give you that warm and fuzzy feeling perfect for the end of summer.
4. Circe by Madeline Miller
For fans of mythology and epic tales, “Circe” by Madeline Miller is a great choice. This novel reimagines the story of Circe, the daughter of Helios, who is banished to a remote island for defying the gods. There, she hones her witchcraft and encounters famous figures from mythology. Miller’s phenomenal writing and Circe’s journey of self-discovery make this book an excellent choice for a late summer escape.
5. Love Redesigned (Lakefront Billionaires #1) by Lauren Asher
If you’re in the mood for a swoon-worthy romance with a dash of humor, “Love Redesigned” by Lauren Asher is your perfect summer read. Love Redesigned is a steamy, small town romance about two family friends-turned-childhood rivals. It is the first book in the standalone Lakefront Billionaires series, with the second book in the series having been released in the height of summer. This book has the perfect banter to have you giggling and kicking your feet with every page turn.
6. A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara
For a more intense and emotional read, “A Little Life” by Hanya Yanagihara is a powerful novel that follows the lives of four college friends in New York City. The story delves deep into their personal struggles, relationships, and the impact of past traumas. Yanagihara’s masterful writing and complex characters make this a challenging yet deeply rewarding read. “A Little Life” is hands down the most devastating, moving novel I have read to this day. This book is definitely not for the faint of heart, so be wary before picking up this selection.
Wrap-Up
As summer begrudgingly comes to an end, these books offer a perfect mix of romance, drama, fantasy, and introspection to wrap up these last warm weeks. Make the most of it! Grab your favorite spot under the sun (don’t forget your SPF!!!), an ice-cold drink, and dive into one of these amazing reads before the season slips away.
What are your favorite summer reads? Let me know in the comments!
Until Next Time,
Monique
