Whether you’re heading down the shore or soaking up some sun in the backyard, this is the perfect time of year for a beach read! A good beach read is entertaining, compelling, and pulls you in right away.
If you’re looking for a beach read recommendation, start with these picks from library staff. And check out the Beach Reads shelf in cloudLibrary for more beachworthy e-books and audiobooks.
The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green
If you need a break from fiction but don’t want something too burdensome, give this a read! This book is broken up into short essays about different facets of the human-centered planet, so you can read it in long sessions or enjoy in small chunks while traveling. Each essay is complex without being complicated, richly detailed, and thought-provoking.
–Emily, Marketing
The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis
Travel back to the vibrant realm of 1950s New York City, where a group of ambitious models and secretaries, good girls and rebels, coexist. Follow their journey as they strive to achieve their dreams of success in this page-turner. You’ll forget to reapply your sunscreen as you lose yourself in the glamour, secrets, and rivalries of these captivating women as they navigate the bustling city’s high stakes and intertwine their destinies.
–Rachel, Langhorne branch
Dune by Frank Herbert
It’s easiest to imagine yourself being there when surrounded by sand. Just make sure to put the ocean behind you.
–Matt, IT
Evvie Drake Starts Over by Linda Holmes
A charming romantic comedy about starting over when life throws you curveballs, or when your curveball just isn’t working for you anymore. Love and baseball!
–Pat, Yardley-Makefield branch
It Happened One Summer by Tessa Bailey
This book has a bit of comedy, drama, and romance wrapped up into one. A girl from Hollywood moves to a Pacific Northwest beach town and finds the one fisherman who does not find her charming in the least. Reading how a social media influencer and an entire beach town in Washington state work together and grow a bond is really charming. I also highly recommend the follow-up novel by Tessa Bailey called Hook, Line, and Sinker.
–Alda, Doylestown branch
Love & Other Disasters by Anita Kelly
With unique but relatable characters and amazing chemistry for our main romance, this book can be sweet, funny, and hot all at once – just like a day at the beach!
–Olivia, Yardley-Makefield branch
One True Loves by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This is a heart-wrenching love story. The main character is starting her career over while grieving the unexpected death of her husband. You’ll smile and cry while you race through unexpected events in this page-turner.
–Cheryl, Yardley-Makefield branch
Slow Horses by Mick Herron
The beach is a great place to start this funny but intense spy series.
–Mike, Doylestown branch
Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson
This is a fairytale-style adventure about a young woman who turns pirate and sails dangerous seas to save the man she loves. It’s a casual and charming read with enough excitement to hold your attention all the way through.
–Kelley, Yardley-Makefield branch
What Have We Done by Alex Finlay
This fast-paced page-turner keeps you guessing until the end about what’s going on and who’s behind it. The author sprinkles nuance and details that just add to its authenticity and believability. This is my third Alex Finlay book, and they do not disappoint!
–Pam, Human Resources
