Backlist Beachy Reads To Get You Ready for Summer

The “beach reads” lists are EVERYWHERE this time of year, but the funny thing is that everyone seems to have a different definition for “beach read”. In my head, I always expect books that take me to summer ~ I want to be reading about long days, heat, water, coastal towns and sand when I’m at the beach or by the pool, or even just on my back porch.

I have already read some fantastic 2023 releases in this category, but today I’m taking you back. Back to the books from recent years that you will be able to get in paperback, from a used bookstore, or with no holds line at the public library. Because who needs to spend tons of money on their summer reading? Not you! Also, NONE of us can read every big summer release every year, despite our best efforts, so I want to highlight some of my favorites you may have missed. The very hardest part of this was only allowing myself ONE book from each author ~ that’s SO hard for my favorite summer authors like Elin Hilderbrand, Mary K. Andrews, Jamie Brenner, Meg Mitchell Moore, and Lauren K. Denton, but I did it! Please do explore their other titles for even more gems.

All of these books evoke my version of summer and most are light reads ~ perfect for enjoying while delightful summer chaos is happening around you. The settings vary from coastal ocean towns, northern lakes, and Palm Springs, but you can feel the summery vibes in all of them. Some romance, some mystery, some feel good, most adult (but I did throw in one YA title) ~ all of these books will hit each reader differently, but I am truly hoping there is something for everyone!