Best Beach Reads: Summer Reading List

Is there really anything better than a lazy day spent on the beach, or by the pool, with a good book in one hand and a refreshing drink in the other? I don’t think so. I’m rounding up a few of my must-reads for this summer, here’s what’s on my 2018 summer reading list>> 

When Life Gives You Lululemons – Lauren Weisberger

The first book on my summer reading list is one that I literally just finished this week! It’s a sequel to The Devil Wears Prada and follows Emily, who is now living in LA as an image consultant to celebs. Business isn’t doing as well for her though and she needs a celeb with a crisis. Stat! Through a mutual friend, Emily is taken to Greenwich and introduced to former supermodel Karolina Hartwell whose senator husband has left her after her suspicious DUI arrest and is now ostracized in the Greenwich community. Partnering with stay-at-home-mom and former attorney Miriam, the three band together to help put Karolina’s life back together… and of course, an appearance from Miranda Priestly herself. Although this will never be the cult classic that is TDWP, the story was good and kept me engaged and I loved that it focused on Emily, who was always my favorite from the original— you just have to love that British snark! 

Crazy Rich Asians Trilogy – Kevin Kwan

I admit it- I’m on the Crazy Rich Asians train. These books are just TOO good! I’ve read Crazy Rich Asians (#1) and Rich People Problems (#3) and am waiting for the second in the series China Rich Girlfriend. I know these came out years ago but I’m just getting to them now and they are a riot! I absolutely love Kwan’s writing style and how he makes these characters come to life. The original book follows Rachel Chu as she agrees to spend the summer with her longtime beau Nick Young in Singapore where she’ll be meeting his family for the first time. His family is insanely rich but this is all unknown to Rachel. As she touches down in Singapore she’s introduced to a world of excess, splendor and crazy (in more ways than one) rich Asians. 

The Crazy Rich Asians movie is going to be released next month… are you planning to see it? 

The Woman in the Window – AJ Finn

This one was a TOTAL page turner and is perfect for a long flight or as a vacay read– you will be hooked! The psychological thriller follows Anna Fox, a former child psychologist who is agoraphobic and doesn’t leave her house… in fact, she hasn’t left her house at all for the past 10 months. She spends her days watching classic B&W movies, drinking wine, and spying on her neighbors. One night as she looks across the street at the house a new family has moved into, she witnesses an attack through the window. She calls the police but no one believes her– neither the police nor the homeowners. It leaves her to wonder if she really did see something or if it’s a side effect from her medication. The book has a good twist and will keep you hooked until the end. It’s a definite must for your summer reading list.

The Beauty of Dirty Skin: The Surprising Science of Looking and Feeling Radiant from the Inside Out – Dr. Whitney Bowe

Dermatologist Dr. Whitney Bowe shares how skin health is more than just what you put on the outside but what’s going on inside our bodies as well. In this book she focuses on the microbiome and how gut health, diet, sleep and stress effect the gut. I’m only a chapter in and already I’m super intrigued. I’ve witnessed firsthand how changing my eating habits has affected my skin and I love that the advice is coming from a dermatologist who is not just recommending the top trending procedures as a fix all. In the book she shares DIY skin strategies, tips and even recipes for getting gorgeous, glowing skin. If you love learning about the science behind beauty or just looking for ways to better your skincare routine, this book is right up your alley!

PS- Dr. Bowe recently released a UPF swimwear collection with Mott50, designed to help protect skin from the sun’s harmful rays while having fun in the sun.  Pretty neat, right?  

All We Ever Wanted – Emily Giffin

Emily Giffin, author of Something Borrowed, always delivers on good, quality reads that are especially great for lazy days by the pool or beach side. This one just came in and I’m excited to dig in this week. The story follows three individuals and how one compromising photo alters their lives and how it relates to today’s issues in a social media-obsessed society. Definitely sounds like a page-turner! 

 

Charlotte Walsh Likes to Win – Jo Piazza

I absolutely loved Jo Piazza’s The Knockoff and Fitness Junkie so I have high hopes for this soon-to-be-released book. The book follows Charlotte Walash who is running for Senate. Along the way she has to overcome a dirty opponent, harsh press, and a resentful husband. I think this will be a very insightful and entertaining read given today’s political landscape and the push for more women to run in office. 

You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life – Jen Sicero

This one has been on my must-read list for awhile now– I’ve seen so many good reviews and I can’t wait to get my hands on it! Within these pages, author Jen Sicero gives sage advice and inspiring stories in a self-helper that’s designed to motivate you kick some serious butt and create a life you love. 

Loved this summer reading list? See more of my reading lists here. 

Have you read any of these? Share your summer must reads in the comments below!