Ultimate Beach Reads 2022

Patron Saint of Second Chances

Author: Christine Simon

Year: 2022

Genre: Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The mayor of the Italian town needs money to repair the town’s pipes, so he hatches a plot to drum up business in town by saying a famous movie star is coming to make a movie.

The next thing he knows, he’s having to make an actual movie starring the locals with no experience and the craziest script while keeping up the ruse that the celebrity is coming.

Why Kirsten loves it

I laughed so hard at scenes in this comedic book that I woke up my sleeping husband. This was a charming book and the perfect vacation read. It is a five-star contemporary fiction book.

Why Jackie loves it

I had high hopes for this book and it exceeded my expectations. There were some scenes that were so funny, I still chuckle when I think of them.

Find this book in: Feel-Good Book / Book set in Italy / Best Beach Reads of All Time / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022

The Secret Life of Albert Entwistle

Author: Matt Cain

Year: 2021

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This charming contemporary fiction story is about a 65-year-old British postman being forced to retire. As he takes stock of his life, he realizes he is lonely, and he doesn’t want to be in the closet anymore. As he sets about changing his life for the better, we are privy to flashbacks of his strict childhood.

Trigger Warnings

Homophobia

Why Jackie loves it

You’ll be rooting for Albert the same way you rooted for Ove.

Find this book in: Ultimate List of Feel-Good Books / Best Books From 2022 / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 /Books with Secret in the Title / Books with Older Protagonists

Black Cake

Author: Charmaine Wilkerson

Year: 2022

Genre: Fiction

More info: A Read With Jenna Pick for February 2022

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I absolutely loved this contemporary fiction which is a story about love, family, and acceptance. It captured me from the first page with the story and the writing.

When Eleanor Bennett dies, she leaves a voice recording for her two children Benny and Byron. She wants to tell them things about her life that she could not say when she was alive.

While listening to their mother’s story, Byron and Benny learn about their mother, family, and themselves. They try to piece their relationship back together. The novel looks at everyone’s lives in the present and the past, but in its essence, it is a book about motherhood.

Trigger Warnings

Parental death

Why Kirsten loves it

The story, the writing, and the characters all drew me in from the first page. This is such a well-written pick from the Read with Jenna Book Club.

Why Jackie loves it

This is such a deep look at each sibling’s relationship with their mother and each other. I could not put it down.

Find this book in: Books About Women in Sports / Books About Mothers / BIPOC Female Authors / Books with Color in the Title / Books with Food in the Title / Books About Sports /Best Read With Jenna Books / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

One Italian Summer

Author: Rebecca Serle

Year: 2022

Genre: Magical Realism

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Rebecca Serle has done it again with this book set in Italy. Katy’s mother, Carol, has died and left Katy to take their trip to Positano alone. When Katy leaves, she is uncertain about everything and whether she will return to her marriage.

Then, the impossible happens, and Carol appears at Katy’s hotel. She is in perfect health and thirty years old. She is not the woman Katy thought she knew. As she gets to know her mother, she realizes more about herself.

Why Jackie loves it

This is a beautiful, well-written book with a touch of magic. I loved how Katy and Carol are able to develop a relationship in Italy after Carol died. It is unique and wonderful.

Find this book in: Contemporary Fiction / Book Set in Italy / Novels About Grief/ Best Magical Realism Books / Books About Mothers/ Books Set on a Beach / Books with Summer in the Title / Beach Reads 2022

Remarkably Bright Creatures

Author: Shelby Van Pelt

Year: 2022

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

More info: May 2022 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick
Instant New York Times Bestseller

Age Range: 12+

Plot

I haven’t read a novel with as much heart as this one in quite some time. Elderly, recently widowed Tova loves her job cleaning the aquarium in town in the quiet of the night, especially because of her fondness for Marcellus, the octopus. She finds solace in the aquarium as it makes her feel closer to her son, Erik – a marine life lover – who disappeared on a boat when he was 18.

But when she hurts herself and is unable to return to work at full capacity, she grows close with her replacement, Cameron, a young man who newly arrived in town looking for his birth mother.

Meanwhile, Marcellus knows what happened to Erik and he wants to help Tova find the closure she needs. His narration is interspersed with Tova and Cameron’s for a story that is compelling, heartwarming, and utterly unique.

I will be shoving this book into the hands of everyone who asks for a book recommendation because it’s my favorite book of 2022

Why Jackie loves it

This book has more heart than any book I have read in a long time. The unique perspective of a grumpy octopus may seem silly, but is brilliantly done and adds a unique perspective.

Why Kirsten loves it

The themes in this book, the plot, and the characters- especially Marcellus- really tugged at my heartstrings. I loved that Marcellus added some laughter and made me smile. I recently gave this book to my son and he adored it as much as I did.

Adaptation

The Netflix adaptation starring Sally Field finished filming in 2025. The movie, directed by Olivia Newman, is set to premiere in 2026.

Find this book in: Ultimate List of Feel-Good Books / Contemporary Fiction Books / Best Book Club Books / Best Read With Jenna Books / Read with Jenna Book Club List 2022 / Books Becoming Movies / The Best Audiobooks of All Time / Beach Reads 2022

How the One-Armed Sister Sweeps Her House

Author: Cherie Jones

Year: 2021

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

More info: February 2021 GMA Book Club Pick

Age Range: 15+

Plot

Set in Barbados, this searing fiction story peels back the facade of paradise, where Lala’s grandmother tells the story of the one-armed sister. The fable is one meant to instill the moral of listening to your elders. When Lala is older, her husband Adan, is caught trying to steal from a wealthy home which sets off a series of events that Lala gets swept into.

Trigger Warnings

Rape

Why Kirsten loves it

Lala, the main protagonist in this story, felt alive to me as I read this powerful story. A robbery gone wrong, a dead baby, a murder, drug smuggling, and more captivated me as I was consumed by the story within the pages of this book.

Find this book in: GMA Book Club List 2021 / Beach Reads 2022

Bloomsbury Girls

Author: Natalie Jenner

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Named a Most Anticipated Book of 2022 by Katie Couric Media, Audible, the CBC and the Globe and Mail

Age Range: 14+

Plot

I loved this book set in a bookstore! Taking place just after WWII, the women of Bloomsbury Books are struggling to make their own way in the changing world.

We get to see alternating narrators, one of whom was in Jenner’s first book, The Jane Austen Society. Each of the 3 females in the story is striving for their dreams and interacting with some of the most famous literary figures of their day!

Why Kirsten loves it

I squealed with delight when Daphne Du Maurier appeared on the page, but you’ll see Peggy Guggenheim, Ellen Doubleday, and more scattered throughout this charming tale. At its heart, this is a book about friendship, and it is an absolute delight.

Why Jackie loves it

This is a delightful book that had me smiling with each mention of authors like Daphne Du Maurier. The book is well-written and addictive.

Find this book in: Books Set in a Bookstore / Friendship Books / Best Books of 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

The Magnolia Palace

Author: Fiona Davis

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Instant New York Times Bestseller

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The story of Helen Frick and her assistant at a formative time in Helen’s life that coincides with Magnolia Diamond’s disappearance is riveting. As is the later timeline, told 50 years later, when a model and a Frick Museum intern are locked in the mansion overnight and on the hunt for the missing diamond.

Why Kirsten loves it

I’ve been big on Gilded Age books recently, so I knew I would love reading about the Frick family and their gorgeous mansion built in that time frame. I couldn’t put this jewelry novel down. It might be my first Fiona Davis, but it won’t be my last!

Find this book in: Dazzling Jewelry Novels / Books With Flowers in the Title / Books Set in Museums / Beach Reads 2022

The Duchess

Author: Wendy Holden

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This intimate look at Wallis Simpson was wonderfully written. Never have I had compassion for the Duchess of Windsor in the way I did when I read this historical fiction biography.

Holden’s portrayal of this controversial historical figure focused on the time period when Wallis and King Edward fell in love, but also the time period after his death.

Trigger Warnings

Abuse, Infidelity

Why Kirsten loves it

I actually felt bad for both the king, who clearly didn’t want the crown, and the woman he both loved and used to get out of his royal duties. There is so much to talk about it this book about Wallis Simpson, which is why I love this book for book clubs.

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Books About the Royal Family / Beach Reads 2022

The Family

Author: Naomi Krupitsky

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: November 2021 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Set in the 30s and 40s in Red Hook, NY, this family drama story is about two girls born into the Italian Mafia. Sophia and Antonia are the best of friends, neighbors, and daughters of local mob members. The story spans their childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood as they navigate their relationships with each other and “The Family.”

Why Kirsten loves it

It was captivating and wonderful to learn about the lives of the women in a crime family. It’s a must-read mob novel because it’s so unique.

Find this book in: Coming-of-age Books for Adults / Friendship Books / Family Drama Books / Best Read With Jenna Books / Read With Jenna Book Club List 2021 / Beach Reads 2022

Lessons in Chemistry

Author: Bonnie Garmus

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: April 2022 GMA Book Club Pick, Season 10 Pick from The Queen’s Reading Room

Age Range: 14+

Plot

I don’t even know where to begin with this unique contemporary fiction story. Elizabeth Zott is a chemist in the 50s when women were expected to know their place in society- the kitchen and the home. I did not know what to expect when the book started and I never could have guessed where the story would take me.

Elizabeth struggles to be taken seriously in her field and as a single mother, in this amazing book. So when an offer to host a cooking show for women is put in her path, she reluctantly takes it.

She uses her no-nonsense attitude and chemistry principles to teach the women in America how to cook and follow their dreams outside of the home.

Zott is a quirky character like Eleanor Oliphant with a charming daughter and a dog whose inner monologue is as quirky as hers. This is also an absolutely wonderful book about motherhood!

Trigger Warnings

Sexism

Why Jackie loves it

Elizabeth Zott is never characterized as neurodivergent. However, the way that she relates to the other characters leads me to believe that she is. I love the character growth, and I was cheering for her success throughout the entire book. Can I also tell you how much I LOVE Six-Thirty?

Why Kirsten loves it

I loved seeing a woman before her time being a powerful, strong role model. She thrived and set a great example for her daughter. That is not even to mention the narration of this book! She is so great, and so is six-thirty.

Find this book in: Lessons in Chemistry Book Club Guide / Books About Mothers and Motherhood / Books Like Eleanor Oliphant / Books About Women in the Workplace / Books About Food / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Books Set in the 1960s / Beach Reads 2022
Find Similar Books in: Books Like Lessons in Chemistry

Hotel Portofino

Author: J.P. O’Connell

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: Hotel Portofino #1

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I was thrilled to have read this charming story of a Hotel in Portofino, Italy, during the years just after WW1.

In it, the new British owners of the Hotel Portofino settle into running a hotel with their adult children. The guests are eccentric, there is a mystery around a piece of stolen art, and some romantic relationships come together and fall apart.

Trigger Warnings

Rape

Why Kirsten loves it

It reminded me of the second Downton Abbey movie in which the Crawleys headed to the south of France for a vacation! It’s got all the family drama I look for in books like these.

Find this book in: Books set in Italy / Hotel Novels / Seaside Books / Books Like Downton Abbey / Beach Reads 2022

Gilt

Author: Jamie Brenner

Year: 2022

Genre: Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The Pavlin family is synonymous with the diamond engagement ring. When a publicity stunt pits the three daughters against each other, the winner will receive the Electric Rose- a massive pink diamond.

Now, 10 years later, Gemma Maybrook is devastated at the loss of her mother and is searching for the Electric Rose. The remaining two sisters are no longer speaking, the Pavlin name is in jeopardy, and Gemma is looking for answers.

Why Kirsten loves it

Nothing says summer like a new book from Jewish writer, Jamie Brenner. Every book she writes keeps getting better and better. This story is told in dual timelines and will keep you turning the pages!

Find this book in: Jewelry Novels / Beach Reads 2022 / Best Books by Jewish Authors

The Hotel Nantucket

Author: Elin Hilderbrand

Year: 2022

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

As usual, Elin’s storytelling revolves around a large cast of characters, this time employees of The Hotel Nantucket. As readers spend a summer with the staff and select hotel guests, we get to see what goes on behind the scenes of a luxury hotel. Romances unfold and fall apart, there are multiple scandals, demanding guests, and even a ghost!

Trigger Warnings

Infidelity, Animal Death

Why Kirsten loves it

This is my favorite Elin Hilderbrand EVER. I love how everyone’s stories folded together while revolving around the glorious hotel. If only I could visit this beach town resort this summer!

Find this book in: Hotel Novels / Ghost Books / Beach Reads 2022

The Summer Place

Author: Jennifer Weiner

Year: 2022

Genre: Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

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

The Homewreckers

Author: Mary Kay Andrews

Year: 2022

Genre: Rom Cozy

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I adored this story about a fixer-upper reality TV series and its female lead contractor. From the dead body and subsequent murder mystery to the detailed home renovation discussions, this book has it all.

Throw in a beach setting and some renovation romance, and it’s basically beach-read heaven. All hail Mary Kay Andrews and her amazing summer reads.

Why Kirsten loves it

The Homewreckers is basically HGTV with a dash of murder, and I AM HERE FOR IT!!!

Find this book in: Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Books like Fix Her Up / Reality TV Novels

The No-Show

Author: Beth O’Leary

Year: 2022

Genre: Romance

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Beth O’Leary has done it again with the No-show. The premise is simple. Three women are stood up on Valentine’s Day. As they try to overcome the embarrassment and stay in the relationship with their respective dates, secrets are told, love is tested, and not all is what it seems.

This may seem like a typical romance, but it’s really about each of the women finding themselves and what they need in a relationship. There is also a tragedy woven into the story that had me in tears at the end. The way their lives interconnect is special and wrapped up beautifully at the end.

Trigger Warnings

Car Accident

Why Kirsten loves it

This is an unexpected story that had me in tears. I love the way the relationships come together in this nonlinear narrative.

Find this book in: Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Nonlinear Narrative Novels

Malibu Rising

Author: Taylor Jenkins Reid

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info: June 2021 Read with Jenna Book Club Pick,

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Nina Riva is having her annual summer party which is famous for its epic scale and exclusivity. But this year, the party will end with devastation. Nina and her siblings are famous children of one of the biggest rock stars of all time and they each have their secrets. Perfect for a list of books about music, right?

Why Kirsten loves it

I have loved the last two books by Taylor Jenkins Reid so much that I often recommend them to friends for their universal appeal. I had high hopes for this family saga but it didn’t quite live up to my expectations.

Why Jackie loves it

I enjoyed the book but I felt that it was a little drawn out at times. Still, I loved Nina’s character and her ability to surf puts her on our list of books about women in sports!

Adaptation Information

The same team that adapted Little Fires Everywhere is set to adapt this book to TV for Hulu. Liz Tigelaar will produce it and Amy Talkington will be the writer.

Find this book in: Books Becoming Movies and TV Series / Taylor Jenkins Reid Books Ranked / Books like Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo / Novels About Music / Hollywood Novels / Books About Sports / Read With Jenna Book Club List 2021 / Beach Reads 2022

Nora Goes Off Script

Author: Annabel Monaghan

Year: 2022

Genre: Romance

More info: Adult Debut

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Nora is a mother of two kids who writes romance novels for television. When her husband leaves her, she writes it into a script that is being made into a movie.

Enter a handsome movie star who asks if he can pay her to stay at her house. He needs to get away from the scene. Their romance is sweet and doesn’t follow the usual formula.

Why Jackie loves it

I adored this romantic comedy novel. The story is sweet, fun, and unique. I love reading a romance story about a single mom. I love it when people get a second chance at finding love.

Find this book in: Annabel Monaghan Books / Romance Tropes / Best Rom-Coms / Beach Reads 2022

Book Lovers

Author: Emily Henry

Year: 2022

Genre: Romance

More info: New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

As soon as I saw what this book was about, I knew I wanted to read it. I love Emily Henry books. Nora is a literary agent who is a shark for her clients. Her life is books and will stop and nothing for her job or her little sister, Libby.

When Libby begs Nora to take her to Sunshine Falls, the setting of one of her most famous books, she reluctantly agrees. When they get there, the town does not look anything like the book describes. In addition, her literary nemesis, book editor Charlie Lastra is in Sunshine Falls. Now, Nora and Charlie find themselves together in a plot twist neither of them could see coming.

Trigger Warnings

Death of a Parent

Why Jackie loves it

I love that Nora finds herself in the setting of her favorite book series. That is one of my favorite tropes to read. But this enemies-to-lovers romance book is also so well-written and only Emily Henry can do. The characters feel real and the relationship develops so well, it is everything you want from a romance!

Find this book in: Books Like The Love Hypothesis / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Romance Books About Books / Emily Henry Books Ranked

The Love Hypothesis

Author: Ali Hazelwood

Year: 2021

Genre: Romance

More info: New York Times Bestseller and TikTok Sensation

Spice Rating:💋💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Olive Smith is a Ph.D. student who does not believe in her ability to be in love. When her best friend develops a crush on someone she dated briefly, she decides to kiss the first man she sees to prove she is over him.

That one kiss happens to be with THE Adam Carlsen, an academic genius, who is also very standoffish. The two decide to fake-date and what starts as pretend, becomes something more- for Olive.

Trigger Warnings

Strong sexual content

Why Jackie loves it

I loved this fake dating book/office romance novel that is also a perfect example of the grumpy sunshine trope. I love reading about a strong and smart female protagonist rather than a damsel in distress.

Adaptation

A movie is being made of the book for Amazon starring Lili Reinhart (Olive Smith) and Tom Bateman (Adam Carlsen). Filming is currently underway but the release timeline is not yet known.

Find this book in: The Complete List of Romance Tropes / Fake Dating Books / Grumpy Sunshine Books / Books Like the Kiss Quotient / Hot Office Romance Books / Ali Hazelwood Books Ranked / Books Becoming Movies/ Books About Women in STEM / Beach Reads 2022 / Books like the Off Campus Series

By Any Other Name

Author: Lauren Kate

Year: 2022

Genre: Romance

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Lanie is an editor and is given the chance to work with her idol- THE Noa Callaway. Noa is late on her next manuscript and Lanie has to help her with her writer’s block. That shouldn’t be a problem- even if nobody has met Noa in person.

Why Jackie loves it

What is there not to love about this book? This romance was so much fun to read. Any book about books gets extra points and this one check even more boxes with the light and fun story that was easy to read.

Find this book in: Celebrity Romance Books / Ultimate List of Romances / Beach Reads 2022 / Romance Books About Books

Highland Games

Author: Evie Alexander

Year: 2021

Genre: Romance

More info: Kinloch Series Book 1 of 6

Spice Rating:💋💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

gushed about this on Instagram, but I’m gonna gush about it again here too. I love a good Scottish romance, which long-term readers know because of our books like Outlander.

This one has Zoe deciding to pack up her London life and move into the rustic, decrepit cabin on a castle estate her uncle left for her when he died. The problem is Rory, the castle’s caretaker, wanted the cabin for himself.

Rory starts messing with Zoe to get her to leave Scotland, but when he realizes he needs her help, sparks fly in this grumpy sunshine romance. This is the first in a new series of books set in Scotland about Rory and Zoe and their Scottish hometown.

Why Kirsten loves it

It was charming, funny, STEAMY, and heartwarming. I personally can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

Find this book in: Best Books of 2021 / Books About Scotland / Books Like Outlander / Grumpy Sunshine Trope / Beach Reads 2022

The Charm Offensive

Author: Alison Cochrun

Year: 2021

Genre: Romance

More info: Charm Offensive #1

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Dev is a producer on the long-running television show Ever After where he crafts love stories to get people to fall in love. When the show casts Charlie as the Prince Charming, Dev will have to put in more work than he bargained for. 

Charlie is only on the show to restore his image so he can go back to work and he certainly does not believe in true love.  As Dev tries to coach Charlie in ways to connect with the contestants, Dev and Charlie realize they might have more chemistry than any of the contestants. 

Trigger Warnings

Mental Illness, Panic Attacks, Homophobia

Why Jackie loves it

I loved this celebrity romance book that seems loosely based on the TV series The Bachelor. If you are a fan of reality TV shows, you need to read this book!

Find this book in: Celebrity Romance Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Reality TV Novels / Beach Reads 2022

The Change by Kirsten Miller

Author: Kirsten Miller

Year: 2022

Genre: Magical Realism

More info: May 2022 Good Morning America Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Kirsten Miller delivers a killer magical realism novel about a trio of women who receive powers after going through menopause. The point of their powers is to bring to justice men who rape and kill women. I was thoroughly entertained by this beach town mystery that pits the women against billionaire men around them.

Trigger Warnings

Sexual Assault, Rape

Why Kirsten loves it

As usual, GMA delivers with its latest pick. This contemporary fiction book will not disappoint.

Find this book in: Friendship Books / Contemporary Fiction Novels / GMA Book Club List 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

The Club

Author: Ellery Lloyd

Year: 2022

Genre: Thriller

More info: March 2022 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick

Age Range: 16+

Plot

The Home Club is clearly based on members-only celebrity clubs like SoHo House, but the newest Home Club is opening on a private island and features an opening weekend to die for.

Literally, because it’s a murder mystery. Except we, the readers, don’t know who is murdered, how, or why at the beginning…but instead we are treated to various narrators telling the points of view of the weekend as it unfolds.

Why Kirsten loves it

This contemporary fiction book was a WILD ride, and I loved every exhilarating twist and turn! The layered approach to telling the story of the celebrity shenanigans and the murder of a key figure in the Home Group family had me flipping through the pages of this isolation novel. A truly enjoyable beach read!

Find this book in: Locked Room Mysteries / Isolation Books / Hotel Novels / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

Reckless Girls

Author: Rachel Hawkins

Year: 2022

Genre: Thriller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This is the Ultimate Beach Read Thriller! It’s all about 2 girls who hire a couple to charter them a boat to a deserted island. But the island isn’t so deserted after all. As their relaxing trip turns deadly, we learn about the backstory that brought each person to their destination.

Why Kirsten loves it

It’s a wonderfully addictive novel that is great in audiobook format as well. I found the setting to be so unique and integral to the party.

Find this book in: Books like People We Meet on Vacation / Books set at the Beach / Isolation Novels / Beach Reads 2022 / Boat Books

We Were Never Here

Author: Andrea Bartz

Year: 2021

Genre: Thriller

More info: August 2021 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

A thriller that had me on the edge of my seat! Two best friends, Emily and Kristen, commit an accidental murder on vacation in Cambodia when they try to stop Emily from being sexually assaulted.

But the following year in Chile, it happens again. As Emily begins to suspect something is off with her best friend, she starts trying to distance herself from Kristen. But Kristen wants to keep Emily close.

With a narrator that is unreliable, because she can’t seem to trust her own instincts or memory, the twists and turns keep coming with this thriller.

Trigger Warnings

Sexual assault

Why Kirsten likes it

If vacation books are your thing, this thriller from books like People We Meet on Vacation is such a great pick. And, it is perfect for books with unreliable narrators.

Find this book in: Books Like People We Meet on Vacation / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2021 / Books Set in Tropical Locations / Beach Reads 2022

The Guilt Trip

Author: Sandie Jones

Year: 2021

Genre: Thriller

More info: Bestselling Author

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Five college friends are reunited for Will’s wedding at a gorgeous cliffside hotel in Portugal where they will meet his bride-to-be, Ali. As the friends settle into the wedding weekend, secrets begin to come out – especially when Rachel discovers something shocking about Ali. Will these friends walk away from the weekend as friends after all?

Why Kirsten loves it

The story was a slow build, but the final chapters were FIRE. These friends had secret and scandal-filled lives! I couldn’t put this hotel novel down at the end. I gasped out loud at the INSANE ending.

Find this book in: Ultimate Beach Reads 2022

The Appeal

Author: Janice Hallett

Year: 2022

Genre: Thriller

More info: International Bestseller
Best Book of 2022 by The New York Times
Crime Writer Association New Blood Dagger Award

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I was utterly charmed by this unique murder mystery book! The premise is great – a detective duo has been given a stack of correspondence (text and emails) and asked to read through and determine who was murdered, why, and who was wrongly accused.

Of course, we readers get to come along for the ride – reading their post-it notes or texts to each other as they try to solve the mystery. I was desperately trying to solve it along with them but I was stumped!

The ending was truly shocking and the many twists and turns had me flying through the story. I read part of it and listened to part. Both formats make for a wonderful experience! This is one I’ll be recommending this pick from the ultimate list of mystery books for years to come!

Trigger Warnings

Cancer

Why Kirsten loves it

This is the first of Janice Hallett’s book and it firmly placed her in the “must-read” author category. The format of this book is brilliant and her other books are equally entertaining, well-written, and brilliantly plotted.

Find this book in: Detective Books / The Ultimate List of Mystery Books / British Mystery Books/ Epistolary Novels / Janice Hallett Books in Order / The Best Audiobooks of All Time / Beach Reads 2022

Woman on Fire

Author: Lisa Barr

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Fiction

More info:

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Buckle up for a stunning story in Lisa Barr’s newest book, Woman on Fire. Jules, an ambitious investigative journalist, is working on a story about a piece of art that was stolen by the Nazis during WWII. 

But she’s not the only one looking to track down Woman on Fire. Margaux, a gallerist and art thief, also wants to get her hands on the painting.

As we learn the origins of the painting and the many hands it switched to over the years, we also discover the dark underbelly of the art world.

Trigger Warnings

Antisemitism, Murder

Why Kirsten loves it

I was ENTHRALLED with this novel about art. I’ll be putting this pick from mystery books on every must-read list we do this year. It was thrilling and informative. Buy it now, and thank me later.

Find this book in: Books About Art and Artists / Books by Jewish Writers / Best Books of 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

The Maid

Author: Nita Prose

Year: 2022

Genre: Mystery

More info: January 2022 Good Morning America Pick
#1 New York Times Bestseller, EDGAR AWARD Finalist, Anthony Award Winner

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Molly Gray works as a maid in a grand hotel and gets joy from leaving things orderly and pristine. Molly struggles with reading social cues and has had even more trouble since her gran can no longer help.

When Molly finds the body of Mr. Black in a room at the hotel, she becomes a prime suspect and will need all her friends to help her. She calls her friend, Mr. Preston, the doorman at the hotel, for help. His daughter is a lawyer. Soon, it becomes clear that Molly, in her naivete, is involved in a drug scandal as well.

Why Jackie loves it

I loved the description of this book and I hoped it would live up to my expectations. It did that and more. I adored every minute of this story and closed the last page smiling. Molly is such a wonderful character who has more depth than is apparent initially.

Find this book in: Books like Lessons in Chemistry / Best Mystery Books / Feel-Good Books / Books for Book Clubs / Best Cozy Mystery Books / Books With Neurodivergent Characters / Adult Versions of Favorite Childhood Books / Beach Reads 2022

The Christie Affair

Author: Nina de Gramont

Year: 2022

Genre: Historical Mystery

More info: February 2022 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick, February 2026 Beyond the Bookends Book Club Pick

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I adored this mystery novel set during the 11 days of Agatha Christie’s disappearance. It’s told from the perspective of Christie’s husband’s mistress and it is utterly absorbing.

This biographical fiction novel is totally fictional because there is no account of what actually happened to Agatha Christie during her missing days. There are layers of mystery throughout, with a side of a love story.

Why Kirsten loves it

I never felt I would be able to sympathize with a mistress but I was cheering for her by the end. I was also enchanted by the setting of the small hotel. If you love historical mystery books, this is a must-read.

Find this book in: Biographical Fiction Novels / Historical Mystery Books / Hotel Novels / Ultimate List of Mystery Books / Mystery Novels About Writers / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2022 / Beach Reads 2022

The Last Thing He Told Me

Author: Laura Dave

Year: 2021

Genre: Mystery

More info: May 2021 Reese Witherspoon Book Club Pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

I raved about this book when I read it earlier this month! Well-chosen, Reese! The story of a stepmother and her daughter as they try to find the girl’s father after his abrupt departure. Owen Michaels gives his wife a note that says “protect her” before disappearing without a trace.

Hannah and Michael have been married for only a year and now Hannah must become everything to 16-year-old Bailey. As Hannah and Bailey search for Micheal, there are more questions than answers. Why was Michale’s boss arrested? Why is the FBI at their house?

Why Jackie loves it

This mystery has so much heart as you see Hannah bond with and try to protect her new stepdaughter, Bailey. I did not see the ending of this book coming, but absolutely adored it. This is one of the mystery books that will keep you turning the page.

Find this book in: Domestic Noir / Books About Mothers / Ultimate Mysteries / Best Beach Reads / Best Books of 2021 / Popular Thriller Books / Best Reese Witherspoon Books / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2021 / Beach Reads 2022

Dial A for Aunties

Author: Jessie Q Sutano

Year: 2021

Genre: mystery romance

More info: Aunties Book 1 of 3
NPR’s Best Books of 2021

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

Meddelin Chen has an amazing, meddling Chinese-Indonesian family. Meddelin and her four Aunts run a wedding business together. When Meddelin accidentally kills her date and he ends up in a cooler at a wedding with two thousand people, what can go wrong? Did I mention that the wedding also happens to be at a hotel where her ex-boyfriend and love works?

Netflix is adapting this comedy of errors and if it is anything like the book, it will be amazing too.

Trigger Warnings

Murder, Car accident, Assault

Why Jackie loves it

I heard great things about this romantic comedy/ murder mystery mashup. It sounds like the weirdest combo, right? This book had me laughing out loud. The characters are flawed which makes them even more loveable, and the absolute chaos is hilarious.

Find this book in: Family Drama Books / Best Beach Reads / Best Books of 2021 / Beach Reads 2022

The Cartographers

Author: Peng Shepard

Year: 2022

Genre: Magical Realism

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Nell Young is a cartographer who has not talked to her father in seven years since he humiliated her, fired her, and ruined her reputation over a seemingly worthless map.

Now, he is found dead in his office at the New York Public Library with the worthless map he fired hidden in his desk. Now Nell is curious about the real meaning behind the map. When there is a break-in at the library the next day, Nell is in more danger than she thinks.

Trigger Warnings

Fire, Violence

Why Jackie loves it

I do not want to ruin anything but this mystery, dark academia, magical realism book has it all and I loved it.

Find this book in: Books About Secret Societies / Beach Reads 2022

Kaikeyi

Author: Vaishnavi Patel

Year: 2022

Genre: Mythology

More info: A 2023 Ignyte Award Finalist, Instant New York Times Bestseller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I love a good mythology retelling, but usually, I read Greek mythology. Kaikeyi is a retelling of a story well-known in the Hindu religion.

At the mercy of her father who is securing an alliance through her marriage, and feeling abandoned by the gods, Kaikeyi turns to an ancient tome of magic. She uses it to go from being a pawn to a fierce warrior queen. But soon the path she’s created for herself goes up against the might of the gods and their wishes. Can she continue to forge her destiny or is she still at the mercy of the gods and men around her?

Why Kirsten loves it

While I can’t attest to the accuracy of the tale, I can say that I was utterly captivated by the story of Kaikeyi’s life. I learned that she is a villain in Hindu but I found Patel’s narrative so compelling that I felt for Kaikeyi and supported all of her decisions. If you are a fan of Ariadne, Circe, or other mythological retellings, you must pick up this book. It’s wonderful.

Find this book in: Books by Female BIPOC Authors / Adult Fantasy Novels / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Mythology Books / Fairy Tale Retellings / Royal Fantasy Books

The Mermaid, the Witch and the Sea

Author: Maggie Tokuda-Hall

Year: 2020

Genre: Fantasy

Spice Rating: None. This is a wonderful love story

Age Range: 12+

Plot

Flora and her brother are pirates on the Dove. In order to protect her identity, she has become Florian and is tasked with protecting Lady Evelyn on the ship while she is on the ship. The intent was to bring her to the Floating Islands for an arranged marriage. The pirates have other intentions- t0 enslave Evelyn until she can be sold.

Flora does not intend to fall in love with Evelyn and when the two free a captured mermaid, they change the fate of more than just her. This book is filled

Why Jackie loves it

I am so glad that someone recommended this fantasy book to me. It is one of those books that did not get the visibility that it should have. This book is so well written and is filled with magic while also exploring the power of love.

Find this book in: 12 Best Pirate Books and Stories Set on the High Seas /YA Books About Witches / Beach Reads 2022

Once Upon a Broken Heart

Author: Stephanie Garber

Year: 2021

Genre: YA Fantasy

More info: Once Upon a Broken Heart Book 1 of 3

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 13+

Plot

Evangeline Fox was raised in her father’s curiosity shop where she grew up learning about the legends.  When Evangeline learns that the love of her life is about to marry her stepsister, she offers the prince of hearts anything in exchange for stopping the wedding.  This deal takes Evangeline to the North where the real adventure begins.

The Prince of Hearts has plans for Evangaline but, throughout the story, we can never fully guess his intentions. This first book in the Once Upon a Broken Heart Series will leave you wanting much more.

Why Jackie loves it

Just when I thought that nothing could top the Caraval series, Stephanie Garber wrote this book.  This YA fantasy romance book will not disappoint her die-hard fans and for those who have never read Caraval, you can fall in love for the first time.  I absolutely loved this book.

Find this book in: Stephanie Garber Books / Best Young Adult Fantasy Romance Books / Beach Reads 2022

A Thousand Ships

Author: Natalie Haynes

Year: 2021

Genre: Historical Fantasy

More info: Shortlisted for the Women’s Prize for Fiction

Spice Rating:💋💋

Age Range: 18+

Plot

I loved this take on the traditional Greek stories surrounding the Trojan War. They are all told by the women in the mythology which is certainly a perspective that doesn’t get much play. From Amazonian warriors to Queens like Penelope, each of the famous female figures in Greek mythology gets their own moment in the son in this epic tale.

Why Kirsten loves it

Penelope’s chapters in particular had me laughing out loud. I highly recommend this classic retelling to Greek mythology lovers and lovers of adult fantasy books.

Find this book in: Greek Mythology Retellings / Classic Book Retellings / Best Books of 2021 / Historical Fantasy Books / Beach Reads 2022

Maiden Voyages

Author: Siân Evans

Year: 2021

Genre: Nonfiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

Maiden Voyages explores the women who worked on ocean liners like the Titanic and the extraordinary challenges they faced. I was in awe as I listened to this story of ships being sunk by icebergs and wartime submarines. 

Why Kirsten loves it

The stories of unruly passengers, hurricanes, and the sacrifices of leaving their families to help others were unbelievable. I was so engrossed that I kept forgetting the book was non-fiction. If you love women’s history, the history of travel, or stories about the Titanic, this is the book for you!

Find this book in: Books Set in the 1920s / Gilded Age Books / Feel-Good Nonfiction / Boat Books / Nonfiction Travel Books / Beach Reads 2022

Clanlands

Author: Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish, forward by Diana Gabaldon

Year: 2020

Genre: Nonfiction

Age Range: 16+

Plot

This hysterical book is part history and part comedy. Stars of the Outlander TV series, Sam Heughan (who plays Jamie Fraser) and Graham McTavish (AKA Dougal MacKenzie) go on a road trip with each other. Along the way, they tell funny stories and experience Scotland’s rich heritage. I laughed out loud multiple times at their antics, and then promptly watched their show Men in Kilts on Starz.

Why Kirsten loves it

I laughed out loud multiple times at their antics, and then promptly watched their show Men in Kilts on Starz. If you are a fan of the Outlander series (television series), you must read this pick.

Find this book in: Books about Scotland / Nonfiction Books for Beginners / Celebrity Memoirs / Books like Outlander / Nonfiction Travel Books / Beach Reads 2022

Anna K

Author: Jenny Lee

Year: 2020

Genre: YA Fiction

More info: Anna K #1

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

This modern-day YA classic retelling of Anna Karenina was SO GOOD. It’s set in NYC at an elite prep school with total Gossip Girl vibes. Manhattan’s teenage elite are partying, shopping, and hosting incredible parties. Anna K is torn between her long-term boyfriend and her attraction to Count Vronsky.

Why Kirsten loves it

While this is a retelling of a story I already know, there were enough twists to make it interesting! It was such a wonderful escapist read and I can’t wait to tackle the sequel!

Find this book in: Books set in High School / High School Romances / Classic Retellings / Best YA Romance Books / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022

Reputation

Author: Lex Croucher

Year: 2021

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Gossip Girl meets Pride and Prejudice? YES, PLEASE! Georgianna is thrust into the world of the Regency elite in. Lower-class Georgianna is thrust into the elite circle of regency society, and it might just be her downfall.

Trigger Warnings

Rape

Why Kirsten loves it

This bitchy, riotous take on the regency era had me gasping with shock and flipping the pages at the speed of light. I would love to see this story adapted to the big (or small) screen like the Bridgerton book series.

Find this book in: Books Like Bridgerton / YA Historical Fiction / Beach Reads 2022

A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow

Author: Laura Taylor Namey

Year: 2020

Genre: YA Romance

More info: November 2020 YA Reese’s Book Club pick

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Lila is leaving Miami to spend the summer in England with her mom’s best friend as a way to help Lila’s mental health. With the unexpected break-up with her boyfriend, her best friend leaving after graduation and the death of her beloved Abuela, Lila’s life is not where she thought it would be.

Slowly, with new friends and a new city, Lila starts to see a different side of life, and maybe change is ok. This is a sweet pick from our list of bakery romance novels.

Why Jackie loves it

This is an adorable YA romance that had my tea-loving heart at the title but, the story was sweet and had me turning the pages. But fair warning, you will be hungry while reading this book about tea.

Find this book in: Books About Tea / Best Romance Books for Teens / Reese Witherspoon Book Club List 2020 / Beach Reads 2022

The Girl Who Knew Too Much

Author: Tiffany Brooks

Year: 2022

Genre: YA Thriller

Spice Rating:💋

Age Range: 14+

Plot

When a group of high school students are brought to a deserted island for a reality show like survivor, nothing is at it seems. As the competitors search for a treasure that has been lost long ago, things start to go very wrong on the set. And local curse does say 7 will die before the treasure is found.

Why Jackie loves it

Although this book does not have magic, it does have a deadly game that gave me Hunger Games vibes the minute I read it.

Find this book in: Reality TV Books / Books Like the Hunger Games / YA Thriller Books / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022

Ace of Spades

Author: Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé

Year: 2021

Genre: YA Thriller

Age Range: 14+

Plot

Hello Dark Academia. Centered around Devon and Chiamaka, the only black students at an elite private school, this is one wild thriller. After being chosen by prefects on the first day of their senior year, Devon and Chiamaka quickly become the targets of the mysterious Aces – a dangerous gossip girl-type character out to ruin their lives.

Trigger Warnings

Racism

Why Kirsten loves it

I was on pins and needles as this thriller unraveled, addressing systemic racism in private institutions in the process.

Find this book in: Books Set in High School / Dark Academia Novels / Stalker Books / Ultimate Beach Reads 2022 / Psychological Thriller Books / Fun Books for Teens / Best Books of 2021 / YA Thriller Books