- Nicholas Sparks
Nicholas Sparks is the “king” of sad sentimental romance novels, and has been nominated for and won several Goodreads Choice Awards for best “Chick Lit.” His works generally involve young love, reminiscing about young love, complicated family relationships, and an untimely death of at least one character. Melodramatic, Sparks’ works are a good break if you want to relax and step away from daily school or business reading. We could all use a little romance in our lives, and if we can’t find that “spark” out in the real world, we might as well indulge in it through the pages of a book.
Recommended Books: The Longest Ride , The Best of Me, Nights in Rodanthe.
- Stephen King
Add a different excitement to your vacation, instead of reading a love story; get your pulse racing in a different way with one of Stephen King’s books. King is known for his gruesome, disturbing, and psychologically terrifying horror novels, but if thrillers and chillers aren’t your thing, he also has a plethora of choices for satisfying reads. King writes everything from interesting science fiction, fantasy, and even biographical novels. His books are sure to wow any audience, as well as provide the perfect amount of shock to a relaxing day at the beach.
Recommended Books: The Stand, 11/22/63, On Writing
- Mary Kay Andrews
If you are looking for a more comical read, Mary Kay Andrews is a down-to-earth southern writer. Almost all of her main characters are recently single women looking for a fresh start. Like Sparks, she has her general genre she likes to stick to, but her books are not as melodramatic or serious and carry a lighthearted friendly tone. Summer vacations are happy times with friends and family, so, de-stress and let out a laugh while reading one of Andrews’ books.
Recommended Books: Beach Town, Ladies Night
- John Greene
John Greene is a YouTube star, young adult novelist, and educational genius. He’s the complete creative package, and his books are equally balanced. They are a good mix between the lighthearted and fun stories of Mary Kay Andrews and the sad and sentimental stories of Nicholas Sparks, yet somehow Greene is a separate category all his own. His works are inspiring and heartfelt stories about living life, falling in love, and eventually growing up. The realism portrayed in the novels really appeals to and capture’s the hearts of the younger generation, but is also a universally relaxing read.
Recommended Books: Paper Towns, Looking for Alaska
- Gillian Flynn
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Gillian Flynn is one of the more serious authors on this short list. She likes to explore themes like violence, murder, and crime, which isn’t surprising given her journalism background. Flynn only has three novels under her belt, but she’s made incredible success with them. They are powerful and thought provoking, as well as fun and interesting reads. If you want to be shocked and stunned while you’re tanning in the sand, then her books will not disappoint.
Recommended Books: Gone Girl, Sharp Objects, Dark Places