Are you looking for some enjoyable novels to binge on? From tales of New York’s elite to shadowy secrets aboard historical ships, these ten books deliver unforgettable stories. Whether you’re a fan of gripping thrillers, character-driven dramas, or atmospheric historical fiction, this curated list makes excellent companions to take to the poolside or the beach.
- Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson
This clever debut explores the intersecting lives of three women from one of Brooklyn’s wealthiest families. While Darley relinquishes her career and fortune for motherhood, Sasha grapples with the stigma of being an outsider in the affluent society, and Georgiana grapples with a love she is unable to pursue, Jackson delves into the intricate layers of privilege and identity. The book brims with wit, charm, and sharp class commentary.
- The House on Biscayne Bay by Chanel Cleeton
Set in Miami during the post-Great War boom, this novel follows two women from different eras whose lives are bound to a lavish estate with a dark history. As secrets of the Marbrisa mansion unravel, danger looms. This story delivers a haunting mix of gothic suspense and historical glamour, perfect for fans of atmospheric fiction.
- The Senator’s Wife, by Liv Constantine
This gripping political thriller dives into the life of Sloane Chase, a philanthropist navigating a second marriage and chronic illness. With her new health aide Athena stepping in, what starts as caregiving turns into psychological warfare. As Sloane’s health declines, she suspects something sinister. A compelling narrative about trust, power, and betrayal unfolds.
- I Have Some Questions for You by Rebecca Makkai
When Bodie Kane returns to her elite boarding school to teach, she finds herself drawn into reexamining the decades-old murder of her roommate. Was the wrong man convicted? As she digs deeper, she begins to question her role in the past. This novel masterfully blends a literary mystery with a nuanced look at memory and justice.
- The Secret Lives of Church Ladies by Deesha Philyaw
A collection of interconnected stories reveals the inner lives of Black women caught between the pull of religious tradition and their personal desires. With lyrical prose and richly developed characters, Philyaw crafts poignant narratives that challenge expectations and celebrate emotional complexity.
- Wow, No Thank You. by Samantha Irby
Irby chronicles her hilarious misadventures in midlife in this hilarious essay collection. From awkward Hollywood meetings to adjusting to rural domesticity, she turns everyday chaos into comedic gold. Her raw honesty and self-deprecating humor strike a chord with readers navigating adulthood in all its messy glory.
- The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
When Stella receives a mysterious inheritance from her estranged mother—a plane ticket to Paris—she embarks on a journey of self-discovery. From trying on vintage Dior to uncovering an art-world mystery, Stella’s story is one of transformation, indulgence, and the healing power of food, art, and unexpected friendships.
- The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani
Spanning generations and continents, this epic tale follows Matelda, an Italian matriarch determined to share her family’s hidden history. Through war-torn Europe and forbidden love, Trigiani explores sacrifice, legacy, and the enduring strength of women. A heartwarming and emotional tribute to familial bonds.
- The Cuban Heiress by Chanel Cleeton
Set aboard the Morro Castle in the 1930s, this dual-narrative novel follows Catherine, a wealthy woman with secrets, and Elena, a fugitive seeking justice. As danger brews on the ship, their fates intertwine in a story filled with suspense, vengeance, and unexpected alliances.
- The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
A dual timeline novel steeped in art and history, this story centers on two women connected to New York’s Frick mansion—Lillian, a former artists’ model turned secretary, and Veronica, a modern-day model who uncovers secrets from the past. With romance, mystery, and rich historical detail, Davis crafts an elegant tale of ambition and reinvention. Whether you’re drawn to high-society family sagas or slow-burn mysteries, these titles offer the perfect mix of escapism and depth. Grab a few for your next book club or solo weekend read—you won’t be disappointed.
