Read This Year's Best Summer Books on the Beach (or Your Couch)

With “shot girl summer” approaching and hordes of vaccinated Americans raring to go out in public again, it’s safe to say that the warmer months have brought with them a much-needed vibe shift for 2021. It’s still too soon to say that we’re on the cusp of a “new normal”—while parts of the United States and other countries teeter on the verge of lifting mask mandates, other areas remain locked up tighter than a drum—but it’s comforting to be reminded that there’s life outside our apartments.

With the promise of relief and hope on the horizon, the change of seasons calls for the thrill of sinking into an unputdownable summer read. If you’re looking for a new adventure, consider this stacked list of new titles encompassing everything from memoir to thriller to swoon-worthy romance. Whether you’re packing for the beach or catching some rays on the fire escape, rest assured you’ll have the perfect book in tow.