The ten holiday reads you need this summer

With warmer days and lighter evenings finally on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some new feel-good fiction. Whether you’re looking for comedy, thriller, romance or historical fiction, there’s something for everyone in our latest round-up of the best holiday reads to try this summer.

The No-Show by Beth O’Leary

Following the success of her recent novels, The Road Trip and The Flat Share (which has since become a TV series), O’Leary delivers a multi-layered romance with her latest work. The No-Show tells the story of three women – Siobhan, Miranda and Jane – whose lives intertwine with the introduction of a mysterious man, Joseph Carter. This is an unexpected love story worth a read this summer, but be prepared for a heartbreaking twist you won’t see coming.

Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

While the original novel may have been released back in 2020, the brand-new tie-in edition,, in honour of the new TV series starring Sam Claflin and Riley Keough, is definitely worth adding to your bookshelf. Reid’s novel effortlessly transports you to another time and gives you a glimpse into this fictional 70s rock’n’roll band as they define an era – until suddenly everything falls apart.

The Last Party by Clare Mackintosh

Bestselling author Mackintosh, known for her thrillers like Let Me Lie and I See You, is back with a fresh series introducing DC Ffion Morgan. Readers meet Morgan in this series opener, which sees the murder of Rhys Lloyd on New Year’s Eve. With the whole village in attendance at his party, Morgan has a community of suspects to contend with, all hiding their own secrets. The sequel, A Game Of Lies, is set for release in July, so make sure you read this one ASAP.

The Secrets of Hartwood Hall by Katie Lumsden

With echoes of Jane Eyre, Lumsden takes us back to 1852 in this gothic mystery. We meet Margaret Lennox, a governess at Hartwood Hall, who soon discovers the isolated country house, which was ideal for hiding her past, has disturbing secrets of its own.

Happy Place by Emily Henry

Set for release at the end of April, just in time for an early summer getaway, Henry’s latest novel follows two exes, Harriet and Wyn, as they agree to pretend to still be a couple for their annual holiday with friends. A funny and feel-good read guaranteed to make you smile.

Don’t Look Back by Jo Spain

We meet Rose and Luke during their dream honeymoon on a remote island, but we quickly realise their holiday couldn’t be further from a dream. As Rose confesses to the murder of someone in her past, Luke commits to protecting her at any cost. Beautifully written, this novel lulls readers into a false sense of security before unveiling a series of clever twists that turn the entire story on its head. A perfect holiday read.

I Will Find You by Harlan Coben

Harlan Coben is no stranger to producing gripping thrillers, and his newest release, I Will Find You, does just that. Telling the story of David Burroughs, who is falsely convicted of his son’s murder, we follow David as he plans a harrowing escape from prison when he receives news that shows that his son may still be alive.

The Only Survivors by Megan Miranda

Each year, a group of former classmates reunite to mark the anniversary of a tragic accident. However, when one of the survivors disappears, we see their lives slowly start to unravel as suspicion and fear take over. This latest offering from the New York Times bestseller delivers a suspenseful locked-room mystery, packed with unexpected plot twists and plenty of intrigue against the backdrop of moody North Carolina.

The Little Venice Bookshop by Rebecca Raisin

If you’re looking for a lighthearted and uplifting holiday read, then try Raisin’s latest release. Readers meet Luna who goes on a journey to Venice following the death of her beloved mother, before finding unexpected romance in a beautiful location. The story is full of heart and charm, with an important lesson to embrace your future and the adventures awaiting you.

Forever Home by Graham Norton

Comedian and television host Graham Norton brings a tense and darkly comic novel that tells the story of a fractured family in Ireland. Set in a small village, Norton leaves readers rooting for the characters, thanks to his witty writing and well-observed characterisations.

Alexandra Davis