Summer is the perfect time to sink into a great book—or a whole series! My sister, Elizabeth Craft, and I put together this list of authors and series we love, from twisty mysteries to rich literary fiction. These are the kinds of books we’ve found ourselves reaching for on lazy afternoons and long flights—books that are easy to get lost in.
When you’re building your own summer reading list, think about the experience you want—something cozy and comforting? Epic and transporting? Light and fast? There’s no one right way to read for fun. Just follow your curiosity and make sure your list feels like a treat.
And mark your calendar for Read 25 Day on Wednesday, June 25th. As part of the Read 25 in 2025 challenge, I’m partnering with Bookshop.org for a nationwide 25-minute silent reading event, followed by conversations about the books we love. Independent bookstores around the country will help bring readers together for a shared moment of quiet and connection.
Popular Fiction
Master of suspense, horror, and surprisingly heartfelt stories.
Beach reads with heart, drama, and Nantucket charm.
Witty, tender novels about love, growing up, and life’s curveballs.
Literary Fiction
Philosophical, psychologically complex, and beautifully written.
Elegant prose meets intrigue, faith, and moral conflict.
Compassionate portraits of small-town lives and inner worlds.
Fantasy
Expansive, gritty, and wildly compelling fantasy epic.
Visionary sci-fi/fantasy blend exploring power, identity, and humanity.
Mystery
Gentle, character-driven mysteries with moral weight.
Atmospheric, layered crime novels full of psychological insight.
Auto-fiction
Riveting, reflective chronicles of daily life and memory.
Science Fiction
A bot-human construct just wants to be left alone to watch media—and save the day.
Hopeful, character-driven sci-fi with warmth and wonder.
Thrillers
Psychological suspense with smart, fast-moving plots.
