Summer is the perfect time to relax, unwind, and indulge in a good book. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or sitting in your car waiting to drive the kids to their next activity, these ten books are sure to provide the perfect escape. Here’s my list of must-read books for moms this summer.
1. Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens
Set in the marshes of North Carolina, this captivating novel follows the life of Kya Clark, a mysterious and wild girl who becomes the main suspect in a murder case. With its rich descriptions and emotional depth, this book is a compelling blend of mystery, romance, and coming-of-age storytelling. Be sure to watch the movie after you finish!
2. Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman
Eleanor Oliphant leads a simple, solitary life and avoids social interactions. However, when she and a coworker save an elderly man, her life begins to change in unexpected ways. This heartwarming and humorous novel explores themes of loneliness, friendship, and self-discovery.
3. Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
This gripping novel tells the story of three women whose lives intersect in unexpected and sometimes dangerous ways. Filled with suspense, humor, and complex characters, it delves into the secrets and lies that can exist behind the façade of a seemingly perfect suburban life. I love everything by Liane Moriarty! A few of her books have turned into series on HBO Max.
4. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
Set during World War II, this poignant and powerful novel tells the story of two sisters in Nazi-occupied France. The Nightingale highlights the strength and resilience of women in the face of unimaginable hardship and is a testament to the power of love and family. I’ve read almost everything she has written, and this is by far the best!
5. The Immortalists by Chloe Benjamin
This intriguing novel follows the lives of four siblings who, after visiting a fortune teller who predicts the dates of their deaths, grapple with the concept of fate and free will. It’s a thought-provoking and emotional journey that explores how knowledge of their future impacts their choices and relationships.
6. Beach Read by Emily Henry
January Andrews, a romance writer who’s lost her belief in love, and Augustus Everett, a literary fiction author with writer’s block, find themselves living next door to each other in beach houses. They make a deal to swap genres for the summer. As they challenge each other and uncover hidden truths, they discover there’s more to their stories than they initially thought. This heartfelt novel is about rediscovering joy and finding love in unexpected places.
7. An American Marriage by Tayari Jones
This novel tells the story of newlyweds Celestial and Roy, whose lives are shattered when Roy is wrongfully imprisoned. As they struggle with their new reality, the book delves into themes of love, justice, and loyalty, offering a look at the impact of systemic racism on personal relationships.
8. The Teacher by Freida McFadden
It starts with someone burying a body. Eve has a seemingly perfect life, waking up each day to a kiss from her husband, Nate, before heading off to teach math at the local high school. However, Caseham High was shaken by a scandal last year involving a student-teacher affair, with a student named Addie at the heart of it. Despite the rumors, Eve believes there’s more to the story. Addie is widely considered untrustworthy and known for lying, hurting people, and destroying lives. But Eve isn’t convinced that everything is as it seems.
9. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion
Don Tillman, a socially awkward genetics professor, embarks on a quest to find the perfect wife through a scientific survey. However, when he meets Rosie, an unconventional woman who is everything he’s not looking for, his life takes an unexpected turn. This is a delightful read about love and self-acceptance.
10. The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
This novel follows the lives of five extraordinary women who become part of the Pack Horse Library Project in rural Kentucky. As they bring books and literacy to isolated communities, they form deep bonds and face various challenges. This heartwarming and inspiring story celebrates friendship, resilience, and the power of books to change lives.
