Literary in the City

Spring break, anyone? Whether you’ve just driven back from a trip or are getting ready to jet off to somewhere magical, here are 7 of my book recommendations to read when travelling!

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1. One Perfect Couple by Ruth Ware

Ruth Ware recently published One Perfect Couple, and the premise really caught my attention, so I checked it out. Five couples gather on a remote island to participate in a reality TV show. Lyla, our protagonist, isn’t exactly jazzed to be there, but when a dangerous storm hits, she races to survive, especially as a series of deadly and mysterious events take place. It’s a deliciously tense book that takes you to another world–just like your vacation will!

2. The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston

Florence, a ghostwriter for a romance author, heads to her hometown after her father passes away. Dealing with her grief becomes much more complicated when her new editor appears on her front step…as a ghost. Why is he here? How did he die? Florence wrestles with these questions and her blossoming feelings. This book moves slower than some of the other titles on this list, but it’s a nice, quiet read that explores poignant themes of grief, family, and love. I’m currently working through Ashley Poston’s A Novel Love Story, so I’ll share my thoughts on that after I finish it!

3. Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

A retelling of Cinderella, Ella Enchanted follows Ella, a young girl given the “gift” of obedience by a fairy. Desperate to undo her cursed condition, Ella sets out on an adventure to find the fairy who “blessed” her all those years ago. Along the way, she meets fairies, ogres, and finds romance with her longtime pen pal, Char…This was one of my comfort books growing up, and it still is to this day. I love the letters between Char and Ella and the fantasy and magic of this book. An old childhood favorite is always perfect, especially on a break.

4. A Cuban Girl’s Guide to Tea and Tomorrow by Laura Taylor Namey

Another comfort novel for me, and this one is about a young girl, Lila, who travels to England to spend some time in a new place after a particularly rough period in her life (kind of like The Dead Romantics). At first hesitant to embrace her new life, she soon finds herself pursuing her passion for baking and a budding romance with Orion, a teashop clerk. A sweet-like-candy read that will instantly put a smile on your face!

5. We Solve Murders by Richard Osman

Okay, okay, just one other mystery novel, alright? I love Richard Osman’s work–it’s witty and makes you bond with a host of unique characters. I’ve written a more in-depth review here, but honestly, I recommend just taking a chance and going into this book blind. 

6. The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

This was one of the craziest, most suspenseful and thrilling books I’ve ever read. What I love about The Da Vinci Code is how motifs and symbols reappear throughout the book, taking on a new form each time. Strands of information twine and twist into one satisfying mystery that incorporates history and a little bit of science. I highly recommend it!

7. Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Malibu Rising transports you to another world–one of sun, summer, surf, and the craziest party you’ll ever read about. What more could you want? Check out my review of it here.

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I hope you enjoyed these recommendations!

Until next time,

H. ❤