Poolside Reads for Summer
While there are few things more fun than sitting poolside with a great book, I decided to take a different spin on these poolside reads! Every one of these books has a pool on the cover!
The irony of reading a book with a pool on the cover while sitting at a pool is amazing!!! So no matter what you are in the mood to read, these poolside reads have a little bit of something fun for everyone.
These poolside books not only have a great cover, but they also have juicy stories inside that will keep you turning the pages. So whether you are looking for funny, heartwarming, or thrilling books, there is something for you to love on this list.
The Best Poolside Reads
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
The Best Fiction Poolside Book
The Guncle by Steven Rowley- Jump to Section
The Best Historical Fiction Poolside Novel
The Star Society by Gabriella Saab- Jump to Section
The Best Thrilling Poolside Novels
The Compound by Aisling Rawle- Jump to Section
The Best Romance Poolside Book
Husbands and Lovers by Beatriz Williams- Jump to Section
*Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Fiction Poolside Reads
The Guncle
Author: Steven Rowley
Year: 2021
Genre: Fiction
More info: National Bestseller • Wall Street Journal Bestseller • USA Today Bestseller
An NPR Book of the Year
Finalist for the Thurber Prize for American Humor
Finalist for the 2021 Goodreads Choice Awards
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Steven Rowley is a writer who has mastered the art of storytelling. With his signature wit and humor, this book tackles love, loss, and growth.
When Patrick’s sister-in-law dies and Patrick’s brother needs to go to rehab, Patrick takes custody of his niece and nephew for 90 days. Patrick is basically David from Schitt’s Creek with snark and sass. He treats the kids like mini-adults in the most delightful way.
Trigger Warnings
Death of a spouse/ mom
Why Kirsten loves it
I am such a fan of Steven Rowley and each book provides depth and insight into people at their best and worst. While this is a book about grief, you will find yourself laughing out loud multiple times throughout. It’s a poignant reminder of the importance of family.
Why Jackie loves it
There is humor and love in this book that is essentially about a family learning to deal with profound grief and loss. Rowley writes with sensitivity and humor.
Find this book in: Novels About Grief / Best Beach Reads of All Time / Poolside Novels / Popular LGBTQ Novels
The Lido
Author: Libby Page
Year: 2018
Genre: Fiction
More info: The Lido #1, Formerly known as Mornings with Rosemary
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This intergenerational story of friendship, love, and overcoming personal obstacles, touched my heart. Kate is a reporter whose dreams of becoming a star reporter have dissolved into writing fluff pieces for a small, local newspaper.
She is almost paralyzed by her own fears and loneliness. When she is assigned to write a piece about a local lido closing, she meets Rosemary Peterson. Rosemary is 86 years old and has been swimming at the lido her entire life. The unlikely friendship between these two women is heartwarming and you won’t want to put it down.
Why Jackie loves it
When I picked up this contemporary fiction book, it immediately reminded me of A Man Called Ove. The relationship between Kate and Rosemary is wonderful and the book will leave you feeling light-hearted
Find this book in: Books Like A Man Called Ove / Contemporary Fiction Books / Poolside Books / Books with Older Protagonists
Plot
The Summer Place is Jennifer Weiner at her absolute best. This story is about a family with so many moving parts and so many secrets, but they are relatable at the same time.
After living together at her dad and stepmom’s house for a year in NYC, Ruby and her boyfriend are getting married. One-by-one secrets are revealed, which keeps you turning the pages and wondering if the family can stay together.
Why Jackie loves it
Jennifer is the queen of the beach read and this one is non-stop fun. It is the book equivalent of a soap opera. Every character has secrets that will be exposed.
Find this book in: Poolside Reads / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Books with Summer in the Title
Movie Star by Lizzie Pepper
Author: Hilary Liftin
Year: 2016
Genre: Fiction
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
This is a fictionalized account of the TomKat relationship that was the talk of the town for quite a few years. Lizzie Pepper, our narrator, is a typical girl-next-door actress who marries Hollywood superstar, Rob Mars. While their love was a whirlwind, she didn’t expect the strings attached to Mars or his cult-like religion.
Why Kirsten loves it
I love that Pepper’s story gives us a faux look at the world of Scientology and Hollywood. It’s over the top in the best way possible. I adore this celebrity fiction book.
Find this book in: The 14 Best Poolside Reads for Summer / Hollywood Novels
Stay up with Hugo Best
Author: Erin Somers
Year: 2019
Genre: Fiction
More info: Vogue Best of 2019
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
The book takes place over the Memorial Day weekend after the famed comedian, Hugo Best, retires from his late-night comedy show. June, a former writer’s assistant on the show (and a stranger) is invited by Hugo to stay with him for the weekend.
The book is told entirely from June’s perspective as she spends the weekend with the man she’s idolized since childhood. Despite the 30-year age difference, June is prepared to spend the weekend enjoying Hugo’s splendid mansion as well as his bed. But all doesn’t go to plan.
Why Kirsten loves it
What could have been simply a fluff read, turned into a commentary on what the pursuit of fame does to a person, his family, and his values. Instead of a riotously fun weekend, June is at the epicenter of Hugo’s downfall.
This celebrity fiction book is fun but complicated, the characters are richly drawn, and the writing kept me flipping the pages and laughing out loud numerous times.
Find this book in: Hollywood Novels / Best Poolside Reads for Summer
Plot
This book starts off with a family headed on a vacation to the Balearic Island of Mallorca. All seems well as Franny and Jim are celebrating their 35th anniversary and their daughter is headed to Brown University in the fall. But, not all is what it appears, and the secrets everyone is keeping come pouring out over the course of the two-week vacation.
Extended family and friends are all gathered in the house where rivalries are rekindled and old wounds are opened.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is one pick from the list of books like people we meet on vacation that is perfect for anyone looking for some serious family drama.
Find this book in: Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Poolside Reads
Pictures of You
Author: Emma Grey
Year: 2024
Genre: Fiction
More info: Beyond the Bookends Book Club January 2026 Pick
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 14+
Plot
Evie Hudson wakes up in the hospital after a terrible car accident with no memory of the last 13 years, including her husband, who died in the accident. She cannot reconcile the life she has now with the life she imagined for herself when she was 16, her last memories.
She has no contact with her best friends or her parents. With the help of an old friend, Drew, Evie starts to piece together moments from her past. Told in dual timelines and multiple POVs, the reader follows Evie on her journey toward health and healing.
Trigger Warnings
Abuse
Why Jackie loves it
I love the multiple viewpoints in this book. The plot developed at just the right pace to keep me invested without feeling rushed. I am so excited to talk with Ms. Grey about this fantastic book.
Find this book in: Amnesia Books / Second Chance Romance Books / Pool Reads
Historical Fiction Pool Reads
The Star Society
Author: Gabriella Saab
Release Date: January 6, 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
More info: Inspired by Audrey Hepburn
Age Range: 16+
Plot
Before Ada moved to Hollywood, Ada was fighting for the Dutch resistance. She is shocked when Ingrid, the sister she thought was dead, shows up at her house. Ingrid escaped the Nazi invasion and fled to Washington, D.C. Ingrid has been sent to rid Hollywood of communism, and her sister is on her list.
Ingrid must determine what side Ada is fighting for, but Ada has her own mission: to find the Nazi agent who terrorized her hometown and bring him down.
Why Kirsten loves it
Inspired by Audrey Hepburn’s story, Saab set out to create a tale of political intrigue against the sparkling backdrop of Old Hollywood. In the process, she wove a tale that felt eerily close to present-day society. I loved the dynamic of the sisters as they worked to rebuild their trust in one another.
I also found the narrator to be thoroughly engaging, though that’s not surprising be Saaskia is one of the best in the business! Gifted by Harper Muse and Harper Audio.
Find this book in: Book About Sisters / Old Hollywood Books / Poolside Reads
The Island Club by Nicola Harrison
Author: Nicola Harrison
Release Date: April 28, 2026
Genre: Historical Fiction
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This is the story of the friendship between three women and the game that brought them together. Set on Balboa Island, Milly Kinkaid is trying to fix her marriage, Adele Lambert is a loaner trying to hide from her past, and Sylvia Johnson is risking everything for her new business: The Island Club.
Over the course of the summer, The Island Club’s tennis program will bring the three newly acquainted women together as they try to save the club that initially brought them together. While sharing that common goal, they are each struggling with something on a personal level – financial ruin, a failing marriage, and shame.
Why Kirsten loves it:
I couldn’t put this story down. Between the setting, the time period, and the ladies at the center of the plot, I was transfixed and quickly flipping pages. I loved each woman’s character development over the course of the novel, especially when they were bucking societal standards. It was equally parts thought-provoking and fun – the perfect historical fiction read for summer! #gifted by St. Martin’s Press.
Find this book in: Best Poolside Reads / Tennis Novels
Thrilling Poolside Reads
The Compound
Author: Aisling Rawle
Genre: Dystopian Fiction
Release Date: June 24, 2025
More info: July 2025 Good Morning America Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
This debut novel is about a reality TV show set at a compound where the contestants, including Lily, need to do what it takes to survive as the stakes get higher and higher. The world outside is succumbing to war and climate change, but inside the compound, contestants can complete tasks to win everything from meat to luxury watches to wood for a door.
Trigger Warnings
Violence
Why Kirsten loves it
This is like a mix of Survivor and MTV’s Real World all in one. It was unlike anything I have ever ready and it was a total romp! The competition scenarios were clever and sadistic as the plot was slowly turned up to a boil. By the end, my heart was pounding as I tried to figure out what I thought Lily should do. Gifted by PRH Audio.
Find this book in: GMA Book Club List 2025 / Reality TV Novels / Poolside Reads
The House on Fripp Island
Author: Rebecca Kauffman
Year: 2020
Genre: Thriller
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 16+
Plot
It was a dynamic family drama with secrets, lies, and tension…and the whole time I was trying to figure out who had committed the murder and why. I loved it!
Why Kirsten loves it
Well, that wasn’t what I was expecting. I thought I was going into a family drama like The Vacationers by Emma Straub, but it opened with a murder. I literally sat up at that point and thought “well, well, what have we here?” Truly a perfect summer read and a perfect pick for poolside reads or for anyone who lives Emily Henry books.
Find this book in: Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Poolside Reads
Plot
Well, this book was such a treat! It takes place at a seaside resort over one fateful weekend. We get a glimpse into the lives of the various guests and what brought them to the resort.
Oh and did I mention it opens with a woman falling to her death by the resort pool? Was it a murder? Was it a suicide? Was it an accident? And which of the guests is the victim?
Why Kirsten loves it
It’s a light read perfect for the beach. Check out more beach reads at our beach read hub!
Find this book in: Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Poolside Reads / Hotel Novels / Books with Summer in the Title / Beach Mystery Books
Plot
Three longtime childhood friends reconnected via text and are finally getting together for a girl’s weekend in the Hamptons. But when someone they pulled a prank on during their weekend getaway is found murdered, May, Kelsey, and Lauren all begin to suspect each other of keeping secrets.
Why Kirsten likes it
The first thriller I read in 2025 is a definite contender for our yearly beach reads post. Between the setting and the quick pace, it’s a perfect one to throw in a beach bag. #gifted by PRH Audio
Find this book in: Books Set at the Beach / Best Beach Reads 2025 / Best Poolside Reads
Poolside Reads: Romances
Husbands and Lovers
Author: Beatriz Williams
Year: 2024
Genre: Romance
More info: New York Times Bestselling Author
Spice Rating:💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Mallory is searching for a donor kidney for her son after he eats a poisonous death cap mushroom and goes into kidney failure. Now, she is forced to confront secrets from her mother’s past and her own. Her mother’s adoption and her romance with her childhood best friend who is a famous singer-songwriter.
This is a nonlinear narrative that also goes back to 1951 Cair. It is the story of a Hungarian refugee who is married to a British Diplomat but has an affair with the manager of the Cairo Hotel. This pick from the spring 2024 book releases is a story that is so much more than the sum of its parts.
Trigger Warnings
Sexual Assault
Why Jackie loves it
I was not sure what to expect from this book but there was so much to dissect when I was done reading. At its heart, this is a story of women and what we do to survive and thrive.
Find this book in: June 2024 Book Releases / Nonlinear Narrative Novels / Best Poolside Reads / Second Chance Romance Books / Novels Set in Egypt
The Roughest Draft
Author: Emily Wibberley and Austin Siegmind Broka
Year: 2022
Genre: Romance
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range: 18+
Plot
Katrina and Nathan are cowriting literary darlings that have not spoken since the release of their last book, three years ago. It also happens to be their greatest success.
Now, they have one more book in their contract and they are forced to come together and write it. Stuck together in a small house and writing a romance with someone you never wanted to see again…that can be stressful enough without feelings getting involved.
Why Jackie like it
This is an adorable romance about writers. What could be better for a book lover?
Find this book in: Celebrity Romance / Forced Proximity Trope / Poolside Reads / Romance Books About Books
Sex and Vanity
Author: Kevin Kwan
Year: 2020
Genre: Romance
More info: July 2020 GMA Book Club Pick
Spice Rating:💋💋
Age Range:17+
Plot
Kevin Kwan is such a fun writer. I loved Crazy Rich Asians and this book is just as witty. However, this book deals with some more serious topics as Lucie Churchill find herself torn between the world of her father’s family and their WASP ways and her American-born Chinese mother.
Trigger Warnings
Racism, Antisemitism
Why Kirsten loves it
Lucie finds herself undeniably drawn to George Zao. When she meets him again 5 years later while with her fiance, things become more complicated. I love the way Kwan deals with the complex emotions in a story that is funny and completely engaging.
Find this book in: Good Morning America / Poolside Reads / GMA Book Club List 2020
Expert Tip
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a poolside read?
I thought it would be fun to make a list of books with pools on the cover. What is more fun than sitting at a pool, reading a book with a pool on the cover?
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Epilogue
What poolside reads are you adding to your to-read list this summer?
