As the temperatures rise and the days stretch into lazy afternoons, our popular fiction shelves are bursting with the season's most captivating tales. Whether you're seeking a gripping mystery to solve under the shade of a leafy tree or a heartwarming romance to accompany your sun-soaked picnics, our best summer reads are here to transform your leisurely days into unforgettable literary adventures.
The Summer Party by Rebecca Heath
A psychological thriller set on the coast of south Australia; this novel has been described by Booktopia as "2023's most addictive beach read." The story centres on Lucy Ross, who returns to her childhood summer home to collect her late-grandmothers belongings. But when human remains wash up on the beach, Lucy is dragged into a murder investigation.
Search History by Amy Taylor
After breaking up with her boyfriend of four years, Ana leaves her home in Perth to start fresh in Melbourne. Here she meets Evan and they begin dating. But Ana can't resist looking up Evan online and snooping through his digital past. Search History is a funny and heartwarming tale of love and dating in the modern world.
One Enchanted Evening by Katie Fforde
Meg dreams of becoming a professional cook. But in 1960s London, restaurant kitchens are a man's preserve. Meg's mother invites her to Dorset, where she is running a small country hotel and needs help in the kitchen. A light-hearted romance, this breezy read is a perfect accompaniment for those hot summer days.
Happiness by Danielle Steele
Sabrina Brooks is a successful author who lives a quiet and happy with her two dogs. Then she gets the news that she has inherited her estranged uncle's 60-acre estate in England. Originally intending to sell the estate, Sabrina decides to visit before making her decision. This romantic, quick and easy read is the perfect way to unwind after the busyness of the year.
All of these titles and more are available to borrow from the Popular Reading collection in the Main Library.
Happy reading!