There’s something magical about reading in the summertime. Whether you’re lounging at the beach or poolside, traveling to a summer destination, or simply stealing a few quiet moments at home in the sunshine, reading has the power to transport, inspire, and entertain. At PAN, we’re continuing a favorite summer tradition – curating a list of our favorite books to share with our community.
From fantasy realms, to mysteries, to romantic comedies, each recommendation comes straight from a PAN employee. So, find a shady spot and dive into our 2025 picks!
Fantasy & Romantasy
Romantasy was hugely popular on last year’s list and this genre continues to be a fan favorite. Who doesn’t need an escape from reality sometimes?
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas
In the first book of the addictive Throne of Glass series, an assassin competes to serve a corrupt king.
“I read this book in four days—I was hooked!” – Jess Tasman
Mistborn: The Final Empire by Brandon Sanderson
Also the first book in a series, Mistborn features a daring heist and epic world building.
“I LOVED this book. The plot was thoroughly engaging, relatable, and at times humorous due to the character’s camaraderie and banter. I was obsessed with the world-building and magic system.” – Shannon Shewbrooks
The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst
Ever wondered what it’s like to be a librarian with a sentient plant for a friend, working to protect your empire’s spellbooks, but then your library catches fire in a rebellion, so you steal some books and run away to your childhood home? Yes? Then this book is for you.
“A nice light option for those who prefer cute fantasies and can read without overanalyzing! It’s like a Hallmark rom com featuring mythical creatures and fueled by jam, cinnamon rolls, and magic.” – Shannon Shewbrooks
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Magic typewriters and a wartime romance between rival journalists. The perfect fantasy book for a PR pro.
“A lighter read, this two-book series captures the magic of writing, journalism and storytelling, which PR people can appreciate.” – Kally Lavoie
Sci-Fi & Dystopian
If you’d rather escape to a dystopian future, check out these picks.
The Ministry of Time by Kaliane Bradley
Part time travel, part satire, part romance, this book defies genre boundaries. It’s one of Barack Obama’s top picks and also one of mine.
“I’ve been recommending this book to everyone, because it has a little bit of everything, all perfectly tied together: time travel, romance, dystopian future, historical fiction. And it’s a lot of fun.” – Ariel Novak
Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
This Hunger Games prequel follows Haymitch’s journey in the 50th Games.
“As an elder millennial, I still remember reading these books as they came out, and the excitement around each of them. It’s been so nice to revisit with some of these characters and get a backstory that elevates the originals. Not to mention, these are some of the most tightly edited books out there – no wasted space, everything super intentional, a wildly fast-paced but never confusing read. I highly recommend to all fans of the original trilogy or movies.” – Ash Waters
Romance & Feel-Good Fiction
For a true beach read, check out these vacation-ready books.
The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren
Fake dating meets White Lotus-style island luxury in this sunny vacation read.
“This got me out of a recent reading slump – couldn’t put it down!” – Emma Nugent
Don’t Forget to Write by Sara Goodman Confino
A rebellious young woman moves in with her eccentric aunt in this nostalgic and empowering beach read, set on the Jersey Shore in the 1960s.
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
When a woman is mistaken for a wedding guest, she finds an unexpected connection with the bride and a journey of personal transformation in this funny and heartwarming book.
“This book got me out of a reading rut! Not only does the Newport, RI setting make it a perfect Summer read, but the story has a lot of depth, and you come off it with some great life lessons.” – Emily O’Brien
Historical Fiction
Travel back in time with these choices.
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
A moving tale of two girls coming of age in politically turbulent 1950s Iran.
“This was so beautifully written. Great characters. And the content is very poignant in our current climate.” – Jen Walker
North Woods by Daniel Mason
A multi-generational story about a single house and the people – and ghosts – that pass through it.
“A little heavier than your typical beach read but the writing is stunning. It’s unlike anything I’ve read (in a good way!)” – Ariel Novak
Nonfiction
If non-fiction is more your vibe, here’s a great book for you.
Platonic: How the Science of Attachment Can Help You Make—and Keep—Friends by Marisa G. Franco
A science-based look at friendship, attachment, and how we maintain meaningful connections.
“The science behind human connection is so interesting, and Marisa Franco does a great job of making it relatable. While we all have friends, it’s important to learn how to keep those friends and bring value to friendships. This book made me think differently about what I bring to my relationships, and how to be the best, most supportive friend possible to those I care about!” – Emily Hubbard
Mysteries and Suspense
These page turners will keep you on the edge of your seat (or beach chair)!
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Girls are vanishing in 1970s Missouri in this suspenseful, heartbreaking tale of obsession and hope.
“This book kept me engrossed until the very end. As booktok says, I had a true book hangover when I finished it.” – Kelsey Sowder
God of the Woods by Liz Moore
When a 13-year-old girl goes missing from an Adirondacks summer camp in 1975, the town comes together to find her and solve an earlier disappearance, with the author shifting between timelines and character’s perspectives.
“Set in a quintessential summer setting, a summer camp, this is a beach read with depth and a twist that I didn’t see coming.” – Ariel Novak
No matter your genre of choice, we hope this list has something for everyone to enjoy this summer. Happy reading from all of us at PAN!
