Searching for some inspiration for your summer beach read? Here, we reveal which books we’ll be taking abroad — from mysteries to swoon-worthy romances.
If you keep up with us on socials, you’ll know that the Living360 team are book obsessed. From Katie’s Maggie O’Farrell infatuation to Evelyn’s fixation with architectural thrillers — our passion for the written word truly knows no bounds. For those seeking some inspiration for their summer reading list, we’ve revealed exactly what books we’re taking on our holidays this summer.
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Living360’s beach reads 2026
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
“As an eternal autumn-lover, I’m really leaning into ‘summerween’ (spooky vibes in summer) this year — and this novel promises to perfectly encapsulate the aesthetic! It’s a thriller about a girl from a well-to-do family who goes missing from summer camp 14 years after her brother disappeared. It’s dripping with tension between the wealthy and the people they employ, exploring both family and class dynamics.” Evelyn Richards, deputy editor.
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Never Lie by Freida McFadden
“A suspenseful story isn’t exactly the beach read one might expect to carry alongside SPF and a raffia hat, but I can’t wait to read this book for several reasons. McFadden’s writing is always quick to get through as her books are such page turners — and I love a story that has twists and turns, hitting you with a completely unexpected ending, as her books always do.” Priya Raj, content editor.
Instructions for a Heatwave by Maggie O’Farrell
“This year I’ll be taking Maggie O’Farrell’s Instructions for a Heatwave away with me for holiday reading. Aptly named for the summer we’re having in the UK, the book follows a north London family as they scramble to uncover secrets and pick up the pieces after a shock drama amid the legendary British heatwave of 1976. As the book goes on, intricate family dynamics unfold — and I know I’ll be racing to the end to find out the truth.” Katie Sipp-Hurley, project editor.
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Thirst Trap by Gráinne O’Hare
“With a review from The New York Times that describes this book as ‘a little bit Dolly Alderton and a little bit Lena Dunham’, I couldn’t not pick up a copy of this for my carry-on. The story follows three best friends from Belfast as they navigate relationships, work politics and ill-advised crushes, all while grappling with the painful memories of their past. It sounds funny, emotional and chaotic — a combination I often adore.” Anna Evdokimou, lifestyle editor.
In Stormy Weather by Chelsea Curto
We’ll also be downloading a copy of In Stormy Weather by Chelsea Curto when it comes out on 16 July — because who can go a whole getaway without some shameless romance? This book seems to tick every swoon-worthy check box, just have a read of the description…
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