Google defines a “beach read” as “an engaging, entertaining, and easily digestible book that is perfect for vacation.”
What’s the last book you read that would qualify as a beach read? Is there one you can name that you’d heartily recommend?
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I’m not your average beach reader because I pretty much dislike everything that would fit in this category. I would honestly read W&P at the beach where I would be uninterrupted for long stretches. However, the most beachy read I’ve had recently would be The Most Mysterious Bookshop in Paris by Mark Pryor.
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I’m not a beach reader, either; however, sometimes I stumble upon a book that might be considered this type. When so I usually read fast, maybe even skim the plot rather than soak in the details. My younger self could have suggested titles, but my elder self recognizes that, as a friend said, “the toilet paper roll is running out!” I’m more selective now.
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I’m right there with you @NanK. Sooooo many books.
I think one of my recent books, The Reimagining of Thornwood House, would probably qualify - quick, light, didn’t require a lot of thought, totally enjoyable. It was actually quite refreshing to read something that required no heavy analysis.
I’m starting to think The Calamity Club might qualify, too.
I sure enjoyed The Calamity Club. Parts were humorous while others scenes were sad. It could be a great movie with so many interesting characters.
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I’d be willing to bet it’s already been optioned. The section I just hit, where Charlie is turning the mansion into a brothel, is made for the cinema. Can’t you just see Birdie’s reaction? I’m trying to enjoy it for what it is, but having been exploited herself, I feel like Charlie is taking this entirely too lightly. I understand wanting to allow the women to practice prostitution in a way where they have a little more control, but still. Plus she was really manipulative about it. So there’s that. Reading it for a book club,so I think it’ll make an interesting conversation.
Loved this book: SUMMER AT THE FRENCH BAKERY by Jo Thomas
From my review: SUMMER AT THE FRENCH BAKERY is a lovely, heartwarming read that addresses living the way you want to, creating friendships, not giving up, believing in second chances, and finding what makes you happy.
If you enjoy determined female characters and uplifting reads you will enjoy this book too.
Have YOU read it?
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I haven’t, but I’ll put it on my list! I feel like I don’t make enough time for lighter reads, and that leads to not enjoying reading as much as I think I should.
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Ok…I just snort-laughed at “the toilet paper running out.”
That is perfect.
The typical beach read doesn’t make my stack anymore either. The closest I get is the occasional cozy mystery, a sequel to one of my favorite series, or some of my lighter sci-fi choices.
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Me either.
I need to read lighter stuff.
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I promise you, Gabi, you’ll never look at a roll the same way now. 
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Currently into Elin Hilderbrand’s “28 Summers.” Getting the feeling it is a “Same Time Next Year, one of my favorite flicks, theme. Feeling like I needed a “beach read” after having read Klune’s “We Burned So Bright” which I thoroughly enjoyed but needs to be considered as a heavy read. I like to use a “beach read” now and then to mix up my reading adventure.
At my age I consider beach or vacation reads as feel-good books. When I’m on vacation, which is usually with family, that involves many distractions or with my husband who wants to go places. Since I’m retired when I need a feel-good I look for my “go to authors” to name a few: Anne Tyler, Elizabeth Berg, Elin Hilderbrand or Elizabeth Strout.
I’m not a reader of beach books so about the only time I read one is when my book club selects it. I don’t even recall the last one, but it was probably a Kristin Hannah as we have 2-3 members who are obsessed with her books.