It’s fair to say that the UK is a nation of readers, and perhaps few things can compare to reading a good book while you’re soaking up the sunshine on holiday.
Whether you’re lying by the pool or enjoying a quiet moment on a breezy balcony, reading on holiday is the ideal way to properly unwind.
In fact, a survey from YouGov found that 54% of respondents claimed they read while on holiday.
That said, with so many fantastic titles out there and limited suitcase space, it can feel like a bit of a gamble picking the right book.
After all, the last thing you want is to find you’re stuck with a story that’s too heavy or slow.
So, if you’re looking for a book that’s immersive without being intense, continue reading to discover six light-hearted reads to take on your next holiday.
1. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
Emily Henry’s books manage to combine bright and funny dialogue with genuinely emotional moments, which is potentially the best combination for a holiday.
Great Big Beautiful Life follows two characters who reconnect at a writer’s retreat, each trying to overcome creative and personal issues.
A slow-burning romance unfolds, managing to balance warmth with emotional depth. This sort of story is ideal for escaping entirely with characters you’ll likely continue thinking about long after your trip ends.
2. The New Neighbours by Claire Douglas
If you’re searching for something with a bit more mystery, while still remaining relatively light, then Claire Douglas’s works are often a safe bet.
The New Neighbours is no different, as it manages to deliver suspense and intrigue in a way that feels gripping while not being overwhelming.
It tells the story of a couple who move to a new home with the idea of starting fresh, only to find that their new neighbours might have secrets that are challenging to ignore.
While the book does contain twists and turns, Douglas still manages to keep the story accessible, which could make for the perfect read for holiday afternoons by the pool.
3. The List of Suspicious Things by Jennie Godfrey
Set in 1979s Yorkshire during the Yorkshire Ripper investigation, The List of Suspicious Things is told from the perspective of 12-year-old Miv, who decides to solve the mystery herself when women in her local community start to go missing.
Granted, this might sound like a dark story. However, Godfrey manages to bring a surprisingly light touch to the story by weaving in nostalgia, humour, and friendships.
The child-like view also tends to lend a feeling of innocence and warmth to an understandably unsettling scenario, which creates a gripping, yet uplifting, coming-of-age story.
It’s fair to say that the story is a refreshing take on a perhaps saturated market, and perfect if you’re looking for something original.
4. The Book-Lovers’ Retreat by Heidi Swain
As is the case with most of Heidi Swain’s novels, The Book-Lovers’ Retreat is feel-good fiction at its finest, with strong friendships, slight romance, and a gorgeous setting (much like your holiday).
The book, which is set in the Lake District, follows three friends who win a stay at an amazing holiday cottage, which just so happens to be owned by their favourite author. However, they quickly realise that their time away might not go as planned.
This is the sort of story that makes you feel incredibly comfortable, perfect for lazy days by the sea.
5. The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley
Yet another warm and original novel, The Authenticity Project begins with a suspicious green notebook left in a café containing the confessions from a man claiming that his life isn’t all what it seems.
As it passes from person to person, each person adds their own story, which forms an unlikely community of strangers who eventually connect in real life.
Clare Pooley’s ability to tell an uplifting story without being overly sentimental is incredible, and she manages to explore the image people present and the lives they actually lead.
It has short chapters and a satisfying narrative arc, too, making it a highly readable book that encourages you to reflect on things – ideal for a trip abroad.
6. The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue
Set in Cork during the late 2000s, The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue manages to perfectly capture the uncertainty and excitement of early adulthood, all while doing so with an air of heart and humour.
Rachel is a student working in a bookshop when her best friend gets tangled up in a complicated friendship with a married professor.
While the characters do deal with significant and complex decisions, O’Donoghue manages to keep the tone light and engaging.
In fact, the author is somewhat of a master of writing sharp and funny dialogue without allowing things to feel too heavy.
She also draws you into a version of Ireland still feeling the effects of the financial crisis, giving this coming-of-age story an extra layer of depth.
Get in touch
We can help you manage your finances so they’re one less thing to worry about as you’re soaking up the sun on your holiday.
Please get in touch by emailing info@lloydosullivan.co.uk or call 020 8941 9779 to see how we can assist you.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.
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