Hey everyone!

I don’t know about you, but nothing makes an experience feel more real than when I am reading about that experience while engaging in it.

Does that make sense?

Like summer feels more like summer when I am reading books that *feel* like summer.

I realize that this is coming from the girl who posted something last week about how much she hates summer. But reading summery books makes me feel like I am participating in everyone’s favorite season in some small, adjacent way.

I actually just made myself a vision board on Pinterest that I turned into my computer background. However, I didn’t realize that I wouldn’t be able to see any of my files by doing that. Oh well. Summer wins again in the race to be the most annoying season.

So, if you’re anything like me and you want to enjoy summer without having to go outside in the searing heat to “live your best summer life”, I have some book recommendations! (Which honestly, is just as good as going to the beach, but without the sunburn and sand…you know why that’s annoying…)

Summer Reading Recommendations

The Blue Bistro by Elin Hilderbrand

Elin Hilderbrand is a prolific writer of fiction that takes place on the island of Nantucket. And after reading many of her books, I have to say that this one is my favorite. It follows the story of Adrienne Dealey, who comes to Nantucket for the summer to make money and to leave behind her past. When she begins working at the island’s best restaurant she encounters a host of characters that introduce her to friendship and love. You’ll really enjoy this book for the setting, the characters, and the overall atmosphere. I felt like I was working alongside Adrienne and the rest of the staff. It’s a bittersweet novel with a ton of heart that makes you feel like you’re summering on Nantucket. *Note: If you plan on reading The Hotel Nantucket or even The Five Star Weekend, read this book before. All are stand alones, but The Blue Bistro introduces you to characters that show up in the other books.

I’m Off Then by Hape Kerkeling

For fans of memoir, Spain, the Camino de Santiago, and/or humor, this book is phenomenal. It’s the story of Hape Kerkeling, a German comedian, who sets off on a journey through Spain on the famous Camino de Santiago. Kerkeling details his experience along the Camino, describing the towns he stops in, the places he stays, and the people he meets, along with glimpses into his past and his musings on what he learns during his walk. I absolutely loved this book. The writing was immersive, making the reader feel as though they were walking right alongside Kerkeling.

The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren

For fans of romance, enemies to lovers, and Emily Henry. If you’re looking for a sugary, easy, TRULY beach read, this is for you. Essentially, the plot can be boiled down to Olive Torres and her nemesis, Ethan Thomas, are gifted their siblings’ honeymoon to Hawaii after almost everyone at the wedding, including the bride and groom, get food poisoning. What I really loved about the book was the setting and the vacation *vibes*. Be prepared for cheesy dialogue and some writing that will make you roll your eyes. But if you are looking for a good time and to not use a lot of brain power, this book is it. Especially if you want to feel like you are on vacation without having to spend money on a plane ticket.

Two Nights in Lisbon by Chris Pavone

I think this qualifies as a thriller/suspense. It’s the fast paced story of newly married, Ariel, who wakes up in her hotel room in Lisbon to find that her husband is gone. What ensues is Ariel’s quest to find her husband and the adventure that gets her the answers she’s looking for. I loved the setting of this book. (Portugal is one of my favorite places, so any book set there is a yes from me.) But the story was engaging and suspenseful. There were a few moments that made me go hm. But overall, worth a read if you’re looking for a summer thriller.

Honorable Mentions

The list of books that feel like summer is long. So as not to overwhelm, I included my personal stand outs in the list above. Also, not everyone wants to read 100 books in a summer. Sometimes you want to get out and actually enjoy the season. I realize that I am going against my own opinion by typing that. But give a girl a break, will ya. : )

If you’re looking for more books to vicariously catch the summer spirit, here are some honorable mentions.

Final Thoughts

That’s it for now, friends. Please let me know your summer reading recommendations. I am always looking for new books!

And in the mean time, enjoy this (awful) season! ; )