The Bookish Ashley

Sun, sand, and a good story—what more could you want? Whether you’re lounging by the waves or relaxing in your backyard with a kiddie pool and a cold drink, the right book can turn any summer day into an adventure. Here are the best beach reads of Summer 2025, handpicked to suit every mood—from sizzling romance to heart-racing thrillers and laugh-out-loud comedies.

🌴 1. Saltwater Secrets by Eliza Monroe

Genre: Mystery / Women’s Fiction

A dual-timeline mystery set on a sleepy coastal island, Saltwater Secrets follows two women decades apart uncovering the truth about a long-buried family scandal. With sun-drenched prose and twisty secrets, it’s perfect for fans of Diane Chamberlain and Kristin Hannah.

☀️ 2. Love, Lies & Lavender by Nicolette Grant

Genre: Contemporary Romance / Romantic Comedy

This breezy romance set in a Provence lavender farm is as dreamy as it sounds. With charming characters, a dash of enemies-to-lovers tension, and a lot of heart, this book is ideal for readers who adore Emily Henry and Christina Lauren.

🌊 3. The Vacation List by M.J. Harrow

Genre: Thriller / Suspense

Five friends. One luxury Greek villa. One dead body. The Vacation List is a fast-paced thriller perfect for fans of The Guest List and Big Little Lies. You’ll be flipping pages faster than you can reapply sunscreen.

🏖️ 4. Barefoot and Bewitched by Sophie Marlowe

Genre: Cozy Fantasy / Magical Realism

For something quirky and charming, dive into this story about a witch who opens a beachside potion shop in a coastal town full of secrets. This one’s for readers who like a little magic with their margaritas.

🍹 5. Sunburned by Devon Chase

Genre: Literary Fiction

A raw, poetic exploration of love, ambition, and healing, Sunburned tells the story of a photographer who returns to her hometown after a personal tragedy. It’s a beautifully written meditation on how the past shapes us—and how the ocean always pulls us back.

🕶️ 6. The Summer Club by Caroline Reid

Genre: Women’s Fiction / Friendship

Think The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, but for grown-ups. Four women, one beach house, and a summer of second chances, new love, and life-altering decisions. Keep tissues (and maybe a frozen daiquiri) handy.

🐚 7. Back to Blue Bay by Jake Andrews

Genre: LGBTQ+ Romance

This sweet and heartwarming M/M romance about two former high school sweethearts reuniting in their sleepy beach town is everything a summer romance should be: nostalgic, swoony, and full of second-chance sparks.

☁️ 8. Skies Over Sorrento by Alina Vega

Genre: Historical Fiction

Set against the stunning Amalfi Coast during World War II, this sweeping historical tale of forbidden love and bravery is perfect for fans of The Nightingale and Beneath a Scarlet Sky.

📚 Final Thoughts

Whether you’re escaping to an exotic location or just mentally vacationing between errands, these beach reads are guaranteed to bring the sunshine. Pack one (or five) of these into your tote and let summer 2025 become your most bookish season yet.

What are you reading this summer? Drop your favorites in the comments below!