30 Best Books To Read This Summer: Critic Recommendations

Hugo van Dijk

7 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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Thrilling Thrillers & Suspenseful Reads for Summer

Summer is the perfect time for a gripping thriller that will keep you on the edge of your seat. These suspenseful novels are ideal for those long days on the beach or relaxing evenings at home. The best suspense novels offer twists, turns, and unpredictable plots, making them perfect companions for lazy summer days.

• "The Silent Patient" by Alex Michaelides: A psychological thriller guaranteed to keep you guessing until the very end. This page-turner explores the mysteries surrounding a famous painter who stops speaking after killing her husband.
• "Verity" by Colleen Hoover: A dark and suspenseful novel exploring the blurred lines between reality and fiction. This is a must-read for fans of psychological thrillers and shocking plot twists.
• "The Guest List" by Lucy Fokley: A locked-room mystery on a remote island, filled with secrets and betrayals. This summer thriller will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
• "The Woman in Cabin 10" by Ruth Ware: A suspenseful mystery set on a cruise ship, with a journalist uncovering a dark secret. A perfect summer thriller for mystery lovers.
• "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins: This iconic psychological thriller is a perfect summer read if you enjoy fast-paced plots and unreliable narrators.
• "The Reversal" by Michael Connelly: A legal thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. This is one of the best suspense novels for those who enjoy complex legal dramas.
• "The Thursday Murder Club" by Richard Osman: A charming and suspenseful mystery perfect for those looking for a lighter read. This quirky mystery is a delightful summer read.

Escapist Fiction: Best Beach Reads for Sunny Days

Looking for lighthearted reads that will transport you to another world? Escapist fiction offers a perfect escape from reality, making it ideal for those lazy summer days. Whether you're relaxing on the beach or by the pool, these feel-good books are sure to put a smile on your face.

• "Evvie Drake Starts Over" by Anna Beth McPartlin: A heartwarming story of second chances set against the charming backdrop of a small Maine town. This romance novel is ideal for those looking for a lighthearted summer read.
• "People We Meet on Vacation" by Emily Henry: A feel-good story about two best friends who take annual summer vacations together. This summer novel is perfect for those who love heartwarming stories.
• "The Love Hypothesis" by Ali Hazelwood: A funny and romantic novel about a graduate student who pretends to date her lab partner. A perfect beach read for romance lovers.
• "Daisy Jones & The Six" by Taylor Jenkins Reid: A captivating story about a fictional 70s rock band that will keep you wanting more. This summer novel is perfect for those who love music and rock 'n' roll.
• "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes: A memoir about buying and renovating a villa in Tuscany that will inspire you to travel. This is a perfect summer read for those who enjoy travel books.
• "The Rosie Project" by Graeme Simsion: A charming and funny story about a genetics professor who creates a questionnaire to find a wife. This is one of the best summer reads for those who enjoy unique characters.
• "Where'd You Go, Bernadette" by Maria Semple: A quirky and funny mystery that will leave you guessing until the very end. This summer novel is perfect for those who love unique and quirky plots.

Engrossing Literary Fiction: Summer Reads for the Intellectual Reader

For those seeking more intellectually stimulating summer reads, literary fiction offers thought-provoking narratives and complex characters. These award-winning novels often explore profound themes and offer insights into the human condition, making them perfect for enriching your summer reading experience.

• "Homegoing" by Yaa Gyasi: A powerful multi-generational saga exploring the lasting impact of slavery. This thought-provoking book is one of the best summer book club picks.
• "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng: A captivating novel about the secrets and lies that unravel a seemingly perfect suburban community. This is a great pick for those looking for books with complex characters.
• "A Little Life" by Hanya Yanagihara: This emotionally charged novel explores themes of trauma and resilience. A thought-provoking and captivating read for summer.
• "Normal People" by Sally Rooney: This modern classic offers a poignant portrayal of a complex relationship. This summer read provides insights into relationships and modern society.
• "The Remains of the Day" by Kazuo Ishiguro: A masterfully written novel that explores themes of duty, regret, and memory. This award-winning novel will definitely enrich your summer reading.
• "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee: A timeless classic that explores themes of racial injustice and childhood innocence. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking literature.
• "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A classic novel set in the Jazz Age that explores themes of wealth, love, and the American Dream. A perfect choice for a summer of intellectual stimulation.

Non-Fiction Gems: Informative & Engaging Summer Reading

Summer is also a great time to expand your knowledge and delve into fascinating non-fiction. From compelling biographies to insightful memoirs and captivating travel writing, there's a wealth of informative and engaging non-fiction perfect for summer reading. These books offer a break from fiction while still providing captivating narratives and new perspectives.

• "Educated" by Tara Westover: A gripping memoir about overcoming adversity and the pursuit of education. This inspiring memoir is a must-read for those looking for insightful nonfiction.
• "Becoming" by Michelle Obama: A candid and inspiring memoir by the former First Lady. This is one of the best summer memoirs available for those interested in modern history and inspiration.
• "Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind" by Yuval Noah Harari: A sweeping history of humankind from the Stone Age to the present day. This book provides a fascinating perspective on human history.
• "The Power Broker: Robert Moses and the Fall of New York" by Robert Caro: A detailed and comprehensive biography of Robert Moses, one of the most influential figures in 20th-century New York. A must-read for anyone who loves history and biographies.
• "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer: A captivating story about a young man who abandons society and heads into the Alaskan wilderness. This travel writing and adventure story is both captivating and thought-provoking.
• "Salt: A World History" by Mark Kurlansky: A fascinating exploration of the history and cultural significance of salt. This thought-provoking nonfiction book will surely appeal to those who enjoy history and cultural insights.
• "Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can't Stop Talking" by Susan Cain: An insightful exploration of introversion and its value in society. This book will resonate with introverts and extroverts alike.

Your Summer Reading Awaits!

This diverse list of 30 best books to read this summer offers something for everyone, whether you crave thrilling suspense, lighthearted escapism, intellectually stimulating literary fiction, or insightful non-fiction. We've curated these titles to save you time and ensure a summer filled with captivating reading experiences. Remember, the best summer reads are the ones you enjoy most. So, grab your favorite beverage, find a comfortable spot, and dive into one of these amazing books! Start your summer with one of these 30 best books to read this summer and let us know your favorites in the comments! Which book are you most excited to read? What are your top summer books? Let us know your must-read summer books!