As the summer season approaches, many of us are looking forward to relaxing by the pool, spending time at the beach, or simply enjoying some downtime in the comfort of our own homes. And what better way to unwind than with a good book in hand? If you’re on the hunt for some great reads to add to your summer reading list, look no further. Here are the top 5 must-read books of the summer that are sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.
1. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
This novel has been making waves in the literary world with its captivating story of love, loss, and the power of nature. Set in the marshes of North Carolina, the story follows Kya, a young girl who grows up isolated from society after being abandoned by her family. As she navigates life on her own, Kya develops a deep connection with the natural world around her, finding solace in its beauty and complexities. But when a local man is found dead, Kya becomes the prime suspect, forcing her to confront the harsh realities of the world beyond her marsh. “Where the Crawdads Sing” is a beautifully written and haunting tale that will keep you enthralled until the very end.
2. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
If you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, then “The Silent Patient” is a must-read this summer. The novel follows Alicia Berenson, a famous painter who seemingly has it all – until she shoots her husband in the face and never speaks again. Theo Faber, a psychotherapist, is determined to unravel the mystery behind Alicia’s silence and uncover the truth behind her shocking crime. As Theo delves deeper into Alicia’s past, he discovers dark secrets and twisted truths that threaten to unravel everything he thought he knew. “The Silent Patient” is a gripping page-turner that will keep you guessing until the very end.
3. “The Vanishing Half” by Brit Bennett
Brit Bennett’s latest novel “The Vanishing Half” is a powerful and moving story that explores race, identity, and family ties. The novel follows twin sisters Desiree and Stella, who run away from their small town in Louisiana at a young age to start new lives in the big city. While Desiree chooses to live life as a black woman, Stella passes as white, leading to a deep divide between the sisters that spans decades. As their paths diverge and intersect once again, the sisters must confront the choices they have made and the secrets they have kept. “The Vanishing Half” is a thought-provoking and beautifully written novel that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.
4. “Malibu Rising” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
From the bestselling author of “Daisy Jones & The Six,” comes “Malibu Rising,” a captivating novel set in the glamorous world of Malibu in the 1980s. The story follows the Riva siblings – Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit – as they gather for their annual end-of-summer party at their lavish mansion. But as the night unfolds, long-buried secrets and unresolved tensions come to light, threatening to tear the family apart. With its richly drawn characters and evocative setting, “Malibu Rising” is a compelling and emotionally resonant read that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
5. “The Maidens” by Alex Michaelides
From the author of “The Silent Patient” comes another gripping thriller that is guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. In “The Maidens,” Mariana Andros, a group therapist in Cambridge, becomes suspicious of a charismatic professor who may be involved in a series of murders. As she delves deeper into the investigation, Mariana uncovers dark secrets and twisted truths that lead her down a dangerous path. “The Maidens” is a tense and suspenseful psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end.
In conclusion, these top 5 must-read books of the summer are sure to provide hours of entertainment and escapism during the warm months ahead. Whether you’re a fan of literary fiction, psychological thrillers, or family dramas, there is something for everyone on this list. So grab a copy of one (or all!) of these books, settle in with a cold drink, and get ready to be swept away by these captivating stories. Happy reading!
