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7 Books That Feel Like a Summer Vacation

By Likewise and ThriftBooks | May 22, 2025Embark on a literary journey this summer with these captivating books that transport you to sun-soaked destinations and unforgettable stories of love, friendship, and self-discovery.

People We Meet on Vacation

People We Meet on Vacation
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#1 New York Times bestselling author Emily Henry's sparkling novel will leave you with the warm, hazy afterglow usually reserved for the best vacations. Follow best friends Poppy and Alex as they navigate the complexities of their relationship over ten summers filled with unforgettable trips. When a final vacation together presents itself, Poppy sees this as her last chance to mend what has long been broken between them. With rich themes of friendship and love, this story reminds us that sometimes, it takes one big leap to find what we’ve been missing. Get your copy here!

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One Italian Summer

One Italian Summer
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INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER! Rebecca Serle's novel takes readers on an emotional journey to the Amalfi Coast, where Katy must come to terms with her mother’s death while taking the trip they had always planned together. As she steps into the beautiful surroundings of Positano, she is unexpectedly reunited with a thirty-year-old version of her mother. This magical trip serves not only as a backdrop for exploration but also as a moving testament to the bond between mothers and daughters, illuminating how love transcends even the deepest grief. Get your copy here!

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The Vacationers

The Vacationers
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Emma Straub's humorous summer novel details a family vacation in Mallorca. The Posts gather to celebrate milestones but find themselves caught in the web of secrets and resentments that emerge under the sun. As tensions rise and old wounds are reopened, this entertaining read captures the essence of family dynamics and the impact of shared experiences. With wit and depth, readers are offered a feast for both the heart and mind. Get your copy here!

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Bad Summer People

Bad Summer People
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Emma Rosenblum’s debut novel is a satirical thriller that unfolds in an exclusive summer haven on Fire Island, blending dark humor with intrigue. Here, friendship and betrayal intertwine as a murder shakes the foundations of a charming summer community. The witty narrative keeps readers guessing as secrets bubble beneath the surface, showcasing the complexities of relationships during the summer season, where everyone seems to be hiding something. Get your copy here!

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Big Summer

Big Summer
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In this poignant tale by Jennifer Weiner, the complexities of friendship unravel against a backdrop of summer glamor. After a six-year estrangement, Daphne is surprised when her former best friend Drue re-enters her life with a grand request: to be her maid-of-honor at a lavish wedding. As they reunite amidst stunning Cape Cod vistas and rekindled memories, Daphne must navigate the fraught waters of their friendship, leading to transformative realizations about self-worth and acceptance. Get your copy here!

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The Summer I Turned Pretty

The Summer I Turned Pretty
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Jenny Han captures the essence of youthful summers in her beloved series starter. Belly’s summers have always been about the beach house, friendship, and first love. As her life evolves with poignant memories and new romantic interests, Belly learns that some summers are destined to be transformative. This coming-of-age story offers nostalgia for those fond of unforgettable summer experiences filled with love, heartache, and growth. Get your copy here!

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Every Summer After

Every Summer After
© Photo: Provided by Likewise.

Carley Fortune tells a sweeping tale of love over the course of six summers. As Persephone returns to her childhood spot by the lake after a decade away, she finds herself confronting past mistakes and rekindling feelings for Sam, the boy she once loved. Rich in nostalgia and emotional depth, this novel examines how summers can shape us and how returning to our roots offers the chance for redemption. Get a copy here!

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