There is still time to escape to an enchanting destination this summer, and the quickest way to do that is in the pages of a new book. We’ve rounded up nine dreamy fictional escapes which are perfectly acceptable to deem as your summer reality. Whether you’re reading from the cushions of your beloved couch island or from the sandy beaches of tropical paradise, these stories are sure to enliven our final summer days.
1. Learning to Fall by Anne Clermont ($13): If your heart beats for animals and butterfly-inducing romances, cancel all your plans this weekend and read Learning to Fall. Brynn has a deeply rooted passion for horses and is a soon-to-be graduate of one of the most prestigious veterinary programs in the country; then tragedy strikes. Struggling to balance her father’s legacy, personal life and horse show dreams, Brynn feels her heart can’t handle any more weight — that is, until horse-jumping champion Jason Lander knocks on her door. Learning to Fall will remind readers of the human heart’s resilience, and that even in the darkest times there is light to be found.
2. The Regulars by Georgia Clark ($18): Three average 20-something girls trying to survive and thrive in Manhattan — that’s already a winning recipe for us Sex and the City fans, but it gets even sexier. They discover Pretty, a mysterious concoction that turns their average features into supermodel-level stunning and comes with an unexpected price. Superfluous with wit and unapologetic candidness, The Regulars explores the dangers and inevitable sacrifices of thirsting for beauty.
3. Everything We Keep by Kerry Lonsdale ($8): Sous chef Aimee Tierney has the perfect life — adoring fiancé, a blooming business and plans to start her own family. That life takes a devastating twist when her fiancé vanishes in a boating accident, leaving Aimee to rebuild her dreams as she endeavors to uncover the truth about her love’s death. Instead of closure, she discovers a sea of secrets. This luscious novel of a woman’s thrilling journey to find answers will leave you breathless.
4. Harry Potter and the Cursed Childby JK Rowling, John Tiffany and Jack Thorne ($18): Honestly, you don’t even need a reason to read this. The name “Harry Potter” in a book title is the surest way to satisfy every magical corner of your longing-for-Hogwarts, Gryffindorian muggle heart. The eighth installment of Rowling’s enchanting imagination is bound to leave you spellbound and your soul overflowing with childhood nostalgia.
5. Sting by Sandra Brown ($21): Love at first sight isn’t all that it seems in Sting. After meeting the lethal gaze of Shaw Kinnard at a rundown bar, Jordie Bennet can’t help but notice the sparks between the two of them. It could be sparks, or it could be because Shaw is at the bar to kill Jordie. Fast forward, and this story is anything but a love story. You’ll be on the edge of your seat as Jordie fights for her life and Shaw fights for answers.
6.It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover ($10): When Lily meets Ryle, it seems almost too good to be true. He’s the perfect combination of everything she could have ever dreamed. But as Lily discovers Ryle’s strict no-dating rule, she realizes that it may be too good to be true. Ryle’s apprehension to relationships leads Lily to her first love, Atlas. This love triangle is everything you’re looking to indulge in this summer.
7. The Girl With the Lower Back Tattoo by Amy Schumer ($19): Be prepared to laugh out loud a ridiculous amount as you dive into the hilarious past of Amy Schumer. From tales of her awkward teenage years to ridiculous sex stories to the heartfelt, Schumer takes us on an unforgettable and complex adventure that leaves the reader wanting WAY more.
8. See Me by Nicholas Sparks ($9): It wouldn’t be summer without a Nicholas Sparks romance. Colin Hancock is no stranger to bad decisions, which is why he is willing to do anything to walk a straight line. Maria Sanchez is the definition of a good girl, with a degree from Duke Law School and a job at a prestigious firm. A chance encounter brings the two together, challenging both as they go on an unexpected adventure that causes them to question everything. As their future together becomes more and more of a possibility, Maria is forced to face her dark, hidden past.
What’s on your August reading list? Tweet us @BritandCo and let us know!
(Photo via Getty)
