I don’t know about you, but my definition of a great day definitely involves a great book. Whether cozied up by the fire in the middle of a snowstorm or perched on a beach chair soaking up some sun, I like to think that there’s a perfect book for any occasion. And after living through over a year of this pandemic, I’ve certainly had plenty of time to fill with pages on pages of great reads.
You can consider this your lucky day, because I took the courtesy of consolidating my favorite books from this year into my top picks by season, so you’ll have a great go-to for every time of the year. Allow me to set the scene for you.
Fall
The air is brisk, you’ve rediscovered your love for fuzzy sweaters and moccasins, there’s always a candle burning, and pumpkin is available in every form – what could make the days more perfect? Perhaps one of these:
Verity. A real page turner, this mysterious thriller will keep you curled up for hours on end. It’s a little dark and a lot addicting, and will keep you entertained to the very end.
The Lying Game. This was a fun find down south in my neighborhood’s Little Free Library. So many lies, so little time – the plot twists kept me so hooked that I returned it right back to that lil’ library just two days later!
What Alice Forgot. For a more light-hearted read, this story is all things I love most wrapped up in a perfectly written bow. The author of Big Little Lies tells the story of a woman who has lost her memory of the past 10 years, showing how possible it is to lose yourself to things like money, image and parenthood. It’s guaranteed to inspire some reflecting on who we want to grow up to be along the way.
Winter
It’s officially cozy season, and it may be too cold to go outside, but have no fear! These books will help the time fly by, and might even help transport you to sunnier climates:
The Hunting Party. Grab that cup of cocoa and settle in – you won’t be putting this one down for a while. This book, set at a desolate winter lodge, depicts a murder mystery from the perspectives of an entire friend group, and is sure to deliver a surprise ending.
The Guest List. Same author as The Hunting Party, same premise, but a whole new plot that takes you to an eerie island off the coast of Ireland for an exclusive wedding. The guests each have their own secrets to hide, and I promise you won’t see them coming.
Where the Crawdads Sing: This book is a winter pick simply because it emanates some much-needed southern warmth. The descriptions of the North Carolina marsh are beautiful, and the story following the “Marsh Girl” through her childhood and beyond is sweeter than a glass of ice-cold sweet tea.
Spring
Birds are chirping, the sun has miraculously returned, and there’s an undeniably happy feeling in the air – Spring has sprung, and so have you! Here’s a few books to perfectly compliment your sunny Spring days:
The Wife Upstairs. A mystery set in sweet home Alabama, this one is the perfect combination of Real Housewives meets Gone Girl, and you can practically feel the sunshine radiating from its pages.
Before We Were Yours. Have the tissues ready, folks. This one’s a real tear-jerker, and tells the amazing story of siblings over time, carrying them throughout several states below the Mason-Dixon line. It’s heartbreaking at times, but it’s a truly incredible story you don’t want to miss.
Pride and Prejudice. A true classic and an all-time favorite, I re-read this book this year because nothing makes me happier than following the life of Elizabeth Bennet. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you, Mr. Darcy!
Summer
Ahhh, summer. You’re constantly catching rays and you need something as light and refreshing as your glass of Frose to keep the days feeling fresh. Here’s a few options that are guaranteed to do the trick:
The Perfect Couple. This book, along with any others by Elin Hildebrand, is truly the perfect beach-side read. The story will immediately transport you to the beautiful island of Nantucket, filled with all the right types of scandal – with a side of a million-dollar view.
A Hundred Summers. Beatriz Williams is my absolute favorite writer, and she sucks you right in to this juicy beach-side story, tracing the histories of multiple generations. Once you’re done, go right ahead and pick up the Secret Life of Violet Grant too – you won’t regret it.
When Life Gives You Lululemons. A classic easy, feel-good read, this Devil Wears Prada follow-up is an amusing guilty pleasure following the drama of America’s suburban elite. Best enjoyed with a tall, extra cool glass of wine.
Any time
No matter what the season or time of day, I’ve got one last recommendation for you that’s guaranteed to improve your mindset:
The Power of Now. If you’re anything like me, you know how hard it can be to truly appreciate the moment at hand, without getting distracted by our worries, thoughts of the past, or planning for the future. This book teaches us how to let go of that and truly just accept the present moment for what it is. It might sound cheesy, but I promise it’s the sort of eye-opening content that really will improve your quality of life!
Next up…
What’s next on the docket, you might ask? The list includes Ask Again Yes, Such a Fun Age, Untamed, and The Defining Decade. Any recommendations I should add to the list? Any thoughts on the ones I mentioned? Let me know, and happy reading! ☼
This is one of my favorite blog posts you’ve written!! I will totally be reading ALL of these! We have very ~similar~~ taste in books!!! Can’t wait for the next blog post. 🙂 You should write for a local paper!