8 Books That Will Be Impossible to Avoid This Summer

As the temperature rises and vacation plans take shape, there's one companion that remains essential — a captivating summer read. Below is a list of 8 books that will be impossible to avoid this summer. Whether you're into gripping thrillers, thought-provoking literary fiction, or heartwarming romantic comedies, these titles promise page-turning excellence.

1. “The Ministry of Time” by Kaliane Bradley

A dazzling and imaginative debut, The Ministry of Time blends speculative fiction with emotional realism in a narrative that spans centuries. Set in a near-future London, the story follows a civil servant tasked with watching over a time-traveling 19th-century naval officer. As they grow closer, Bradley explores themes of colonialism, assimilation, and forbidden love. With rich, lyrical prose and philosophical undertones, this novel delves into what it means to be displaced in time and identity. It’s a smart, emotionally potent read perfect for fans of literary sci-fi, historical fiction, and unconventional romance.

2. “Funny Story” by Emily Henry

Emily Henry continues her reign as the queen of smart romantic fiction with Funny Story, a charming novel about heartbreak, healing, and unexpected love. Daphne is left reeling after her fiancé runs off with his childhood best friend. With nowhere to go, she ends up living with Miles, her ex’s ex’s ex, and sparks begin to fly. Packed with Henry’s trademark banter, emotional intelligence, and nuanced characters, this book transforms a classic fake-dating trope into something authentic and deeply moving. Funny Story is a delightful exploration of starting over and the often hilarious journey to finding love again.

3. “You Like It Darker” by Stephen King

Stephen King returns to his short story roots with You Like It Darker, a haunting collection that showcases his legendary ability to tap into the darkest corners of the human soul. These stories explore themes like grief, revenge, mortality, and the supernatural, reminding readers why King remains a literary titan. From sinister small towns to twisted psychological thrillers, each tale builds atmospheric dread with precision.

4. “The Familiar” by Leigh Bardugo

The story follows Luzia, a scullery maid with secret magical abilities, who finds herself pulled into the dangerous world of politics, sorcery, and power when her gifts are discovered. This novel offers a darker, more mature Bardugo, but with the same immersive magic and heart that fans adore. A must-read for fantasy lovers.

5. “The House of Hidden Meanings” by RuPaul

With signature charisma, wit, and grace, RuPaul recounts his journey through drag, fame, addiction, and love, offering readers an intimate look behind the makeup. This is not just a celebrity memoir — it’s a story of self-acceptance, reinvention, and the courage to live authentically. Inspirational and deeply human, this book radiates RuPaul’s philosophy: “When you become the image of your own imagination, it’s the most powerful thing you could ever do.”

6. “Long Island Compromise” by Taffy Brodesser-Akner

Long Island Compromise is a razor-sharp family saga about wealth, trauma, and the cracks in the American dream. When patriarch Carl Fletcher is kidnapped in the 1980s and mysteriously returned, his family’s life slowly spirals into dysfunction. Taffy Brodesser-Akner’s biting wit and insight into privilege and generational tension make this both hilarious and haunting. The novel explores how a single event reverberates through decades, changing careers, marriages, and identities. Brodesser-Akner’s prose is as dazzling as ever, blending satire with deep emotional truths.

7. “The Paris Novel” by Ruth Reichl

Set in the enchanting world of postwar Paris, The Paris Novel follows Stella, a recently orphaned woman who discovers a mysterious apartment left to her by a relative she never knew. As she uncovers hidden letters and forgotten recipes, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, indulgence, and rebirth. Ruth Reichl's lush descriptions of food, fashion, and Parisian life create a sensory experience that is both nostalgic and revelatory. This is more than a love letter to Paris — it’s a celebration of personal transformation and the power of embracing life’s unexpected pleasures. A rich, immersive summer escape.

8. “I Cheerfully Refuse” by Leif Enger

The story follows Rainy, a widowed musician navigating a world of darkness and despair with his trusty sailboat and his fierce moral compass. Enger, best known for Peace Like a River, infuses this tale with poetic beauty, spiritual grace, and quiet hope. It’s a fable for our times — a meditation on resilience, kindness, and the enduring power of love and art in the face of ruin. I Cheerfully Refuse is a moving, luminous triumph not to be missed.

Conclusion

As the days grow longer and the warmth of summer wraps around us, there's no better time to dive into a story that captivates, challenges, and comforts. The 8 books listed above are not just seasonal distractions — they are essential reads that will define conversations, top charts, and leave lasting impressions. Whether you seek thrilling mysteries, heartfelt romance, or literary depth, this summer's literary lineup offers something for every kind of reader.

So grab your sunscreen, find a quiet corner, and get ready to lose yourself in the pages of these unforgettable stories. Summer 2025 belongs to books — and these are the ones you won’t want to miss.