beach read book review

• ADMIN AREA MY BOOKSHELF MY DASHBOARD MY PROFILE SIGN OUT SIGN IN

Awards & Accolades

Our Verdict

New York Times Bestseller

IndieBound Bestseller

by Emily Henry ‧ RELEASE DATE: May 19, 2020

A heartfelt look at taking second chances, in life and in love.

Two struggling authors spend the summer writing and falling in love in a quaint beach town.

January Andrews has just arrived in the small town of North Bear Shores with some serious baggage. Her father has been dead for a year, but she still hasn’t come to terms with what she found out at his funeral—he had been cheating on her mother for years. January plans to spend the summer cleaning out and selling the house her father and “That Woman” lived in together. But she’s also a down-on-her-luck author facing writer’s block, and she no longer believes in the happily-ever-after she’s made the benchmark of her work. Her steadily dwindling bank account, though, is a daily reminder that she must sell her next book, and fast. Serendipitously, she discovers that her new next-door neighbor is Augustus Everett, the darling of the literary fiction set and her former college rival/crush. Gus also happens to be struggling with his next book (and some serious trauma that unfolds throughout the novel). Though the two get off to a rocky start, they soon make a bet: Gus will try to write a romance novel, and January will attempt “bleak literary fiction.” They spend the summer teaching each other the art of their own genres—January takes Gus on a romantic outing to the local carnival; Gus takes January to the burned-down remains of a former cult—and they both process their own grief, loss, and trauma through this experiment. There are more than enough steamy scenes to sustain the slow-burn romance, and smart commentary on the placement and purpose of “women’s fiction” joins with crucial conversations about mental health to add multiple intriguing layers to the plot.

Pub Date: May 19, 2020

ISBN: 978-1-9848-0673-4

Page Count: 384

Publisher: Jove/Penguin

Review Posted Online: March 1, 2020

Kirkus Reviews Issue: March 15, 2020

ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE

Share your opinion of this book

More by Emily Henry

BOOK REVIEW

by Emily Henry

More About This Book

BOOK TO SCREEN

PERSPECTIVES

IT STARTS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover ‧ RELEASE DATE: Oct. 18, 2022

Through palpable tension balanced with glimmers of hope, Hoover beautifully captures the heartbreak and joy of starting over.

The sequel to It Ends With Us (2016) shows the aftermath of domestic violence through the eyes of a single mother.

Lily Bloom is still running a flower shop; her abusive ex-husband, Ryle Kincaid, is still a surgeon. But now they’re co-parenting a daughter, Emerson, who's almost a year old. Lily won’t send Emerson to her father’s house overnight until she’s old enough to talk—“So she can tell me if something happens”—but she doesn’t want to fight for full custody lest it become an expensive legal drama or, worse, a physical fight. When Lily runs into Atlas Corrigan, a childhood friend who also came from an abusive family, she hopes their friendship can blossom into love. (For new readers, their history unfolds in heartfelt diary entries that Lily addresses to Finding Nemo star Ellen DeGeneres as she considers how Atlas was a calming presence during her turbulent childhood.) Atlas, who is single and running a restaurant, feels the same way. But even though she’s divorced, Lily isn’t exactly free. Behind Ryle’s veneer of civility are his jealousy and resentment. Lily has to plan her dates carefully to avoid a confrontation. Meanwhile, Atlas’ mother returns with shocking news. In between, Lily and Atlas steal away for romantic moments that are even sweeter for their authenticity as Lily struggles with child care, breastfeeding, and running a business while trying to find time for herself.

Pub Date: Oct. 18, 2022

ISBN: 978-1-668-00122-6

Page Count: 352

Publisher: Atria

Review Posted Online: July 26, 2022

Kirkus Reviews Issue: Aug. 15, 2022

ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE | GENERAL ROMANCE | GENERAL FICTION

More by Colleen Hoover

by Colleen Hoover

SEEN & HEARD

IT ENDS WITH US

by Colleen Hoover ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 2, 2016

Packed with riveting drama and painful truths, this book powerfully illustrates the devastation of abuse—and the strength of...

Hoover’s ( November 9 , 2015, etc.) latest tackles the difficult subject of domestic violence with romantic tenderness and emotional heft.

At first glance, the couple is edgy but cute: Lily Bloom runs a flower shop for people who hate flowers; Ryle Kincaid is a surgeon who says he never wants to get married or have kids. They meet on a rooftop in Boston on the night Ryle loses a patient and Lily attends her abusive father’s funeral. The provocative opening takes a dark turn when Lily receives a warning about Ryle’s intentions from his sister, who becomes Lily’s employee and close friend. Lily swears she’ll never end up in another abusive home, but when Ryle starts to show all the same warning signs that her mother ignored, Lily learns just how hard it is to say goodbye. When Ryle is not in the throes of a jealous rage, his redeeming qualities return, and Lily can justify his behavior: “I think we needed what happened on the stairwell to happen so that I would know his past and we’d be able to work on it together,” she tells herself. Lily marries Ryle hoping the good will outweigh the bad, and the mother-daughter dynamics evolve beautifully as Lily reflects on her childhood with fresh eyes. Diary entries fancifully addressed to TV host Ellen DeGeneres serve as flashbacks to Lily’s teenage years, when she met her first love, Atlas Corrigan, a homeless boy she found squatting in a neighbor’s house. When Atlas turns up in Boston, now a successful chef, he begs Lily to leave Ryle. Despite the better option right in front of her, an unexpected complication forces Lily to cut ties with Atlas, confront Ryle, and try to end the cycle of abuse before it’s too late. The relationships are portrayed with compassion and honesty, and the author’s note at the end that explains Hoover’s personal connection to the subject matter is a must-read.

Pub Date: Aug. 2, 2016

ISBN: 978-1-5011-1036-8

Page Count: 320

Review Posted Online: May 30, 2016

Kirkus Reviews Issue: June 15, 2016

GENERAL ROMANCE | ROMANCE | CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE

• Discover Books Fiction Thriller & Suspense Mystery & Detective Romance Science Fiction & Fantasy Nonfiction Biography & Memoir Teens & Young Adult Children's
• News & Features Bestsellers Book Lists Profiles Perspectives Awards Seen & Heard Book to Screen Kirkus TV videos In the News
• Kirkus Prize Winners & Finalists About the Kirkus Prize Kirkus Prize Judges
• Magazine Current Issue All Issues Manage My Subscription Subscribe
• Writers’ Center Hire a Professional Book Editor Get Your Book Reviewed Advertise Your Book Launch a Pro Connect Author Page Learn About The Book Industry
• More Kirkus Diversity Collections Kirkus Pro Connect My Account/Login
• About Kirkus History Our Team Contest FAQ Press Center Info For Publishers
• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Reprints, Permission & Excerpting Policy

© Copyright 2024 Kirkus Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Popular in this Genre

Hey there, book lover.

We’re glad you found a book that interests you!

Please select an existing bookshelf

Create a new bookshelf.

We can’t wait for you to join Kirkus!

Please sign up to continue.

It’s free and takes less than 10 seconds!

Already have an account? Log in.

Trouble signing in? Retrieve credentials.

Almost there!

• Industry Professional

Welcome Back!

Sign in using your Kirkus account

Contact us: 1-800-316-9361 or email [email protected].

Don’t fret. We’ll find you.

Magazine Subscribers ( How to Find Your Reader Number )

If You’ve Purchased Author Services

Don’t have an account yet? Sign Up.

Beach Read by Emily Henry | Book Review

Posted May 13, 2020 by Jana in Adult Fiction , Book Review / 15 Comments

A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters. Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They're polar opposites. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they're living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer's block. Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She'll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he'll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.

Who doesn’t love a good beach read? This cute summery cover, the fun title, and the unique synopsis had me reaching for some fun, swoony romantic comedy in the sun. While this was a fun book, unfortunately it wasn’t as fun and swoony as I had hoped. As always, my main points are bolded.

1. The first thing I think of when I think about Beach Read is that it’s a lot heavier than I expected. I was expecting a light, fluffy storyline with two authors throwing their witty banter back and forth, all while the summer sun blazes down on them as the waves crash against the shore outside their beach houses. This was not that. We learn immediately that January is reeling from the death of her secret-keeping father. The beach house is the house he owned with his mistress. January finds out about this mistress (whom he was spending time with while his wife, and January’s mom, was at home going through chemotherapy) at her father’s funeral, when said mistress hands her a key, a note, and a teary smile. Holy heavy. That’s a lot to grapple with. While struggling with the worst case of writer’s block ever (because what even is love anymore?), she’s living in his home cleaning out his and his mistress’s things and preparing to sell it. Gus is also carrying a lot of his own baggage. Both characters go through a lot of emotional ups and downs. This book also didn’t feel summery to me. Yes, it’s hot and sticky during the day but no beach stuff really happens. The rom-com field trips that January takes Gus on are highly overshadowed by Gus’s death cult excursions and their own personal demons. The evenings and mornings are cold and damp. I just didn’t get the warm fuzzy feelings I had hoped for with this title.

2. On the flip side, when Beach Read chooses to be a rom-com, it does such a good job! January and Gus have this awesome chemistry. They pick at each other and push each other’s buttons, and the sexual tension is totally there. They spend their days sitting in their own kitchens, which are mirror images of each other, working on their books. If they look up from their laptops they can see each other, through the windows, sitting at their kitchen tables. Even though they both have phones, they choose to communicate by writing notes to each other with sharpies on their notebooks and then holding them up and waiting for the other person to look up and read them. Some of these notes are funny, some are flirty, and some are motivational. This was my favorite part of their relationship, and the book. I thought it was really cute.

3. I didn’t love the execution of January (the romance writer) writing literary fiction and Gus (the literary fiction writer) writing romance. Maybe I didn’t like this because I hate it when my favorite authors make a disappointing genre jump, thereby writing a book that holds absolutely no interest for me. The tidbits of both January’s and Gus’s novels sounded kind of crummy to me. lol. Her literary fiction novel ends up being about a circus, and his romance novels ends up being about a death cult (don’t worry, this is not a spoiler). I would have ZERO interest in both of these books, and I have a hard time believing that this was a good career move for either of them. All for a silly bet. Honestly, I wish this part had been left out. It would have been fine if they’d both just had writer’s block and tagged along on each other’s research trips just for fun.

4. I liked the supporting characters better than the main characters. January’s best friend, Shadi, was my favorite character in the book. She seems like such a sweet, supportive, loving best friend. Throughout the story, a romance is budding in her life, and I loved reading about it. There’s also Gus’s aunt Pete who owns the book store and the coffee shop. Pete is hilarious. January’s publicist, Anya, is a treat and I’d love to read a book about her. Her emails checking in on January’s writing progress were so much fun. She’s got quite a personality.

5. Unfortunately, I never really connected with January or Gus. I liked them, and I felt bad for their heartaches and personal struggles, but I never felt connected to or invested in them. I think that’s why I struggled to get through this book. I’m a very character-driven reader, so not being able to connect with either main character was very hard for me.

6. I did like all the writer stuff. The advance reader copies, the writing process, the writer’s block, professional and reader reviews. That was fun.

7. The death cult stuff honestly made me uncomfortable. It was just too creepy and kind of upsetting in places. If this were in a mystery or thriller I would have been fine because I would have been expecting to feel uncomfortable and creeped out. That’s not what I wanted to feel when I picked up Beach Read , though. I would have preferred more of January’s rom-com 101 field trips. 

8. This didn’t feel at all romantic to me. Gus says some GREAT things that are very swoony on their own, but they didn’t feel swoony when mixed in with everything else. There wasn’t any wooing. I didn’t feel like there were any grand gestures. The cover and synopsis actually seem a little deceiving. The romance is there, and there’s sexytimes… it just didn’t feel romantic.

9. I came away feeling kind of dark about the entire reading experience. The ending wasn’t even satisfying. 

All in all, I’m kind of all over the place with Beach Read . I liked some parts, I was meh about many parts, and I really didn’t like some parts. There was SO much going on. The book was kind of all over the place, now that I think about it. I think my biggest issue, though, is that I couldn’t connect with the characters I was really supposed to love and feel for. I really think that’s where it all went wrong for me. Not being able to connect with them made their story feel very flat and not the least bit romantic. I’m disappointed.

Related Posts

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

15 responses to “ Beach Read by Emily Henry | Book Review ”

I definitely want my beach reads to be lighter than what I normally would read. This one sounds like it got a bit too heavy for that. Ethan recently posted… If It Bleeds by Stephen King

Yeah, exactly. I really think if the title and cover were changed to reflect more of what the reader should expect I’m not sure I would have chosen to read it. I feel a bit tricked. It’s not a beach read to me, and I still can’t figure out why the title was chosen. Oh well!

Awww, I’m so sad to see this. This is my current read–I’m about halfway in–and I’m LOVING it. I actually like the contrast of the heavy and light parts of the book. And I’m finding it super romantic. I’m always surprised by how readers can experience books in such vastly different ways, but that’s what keeps things interesting, right?? I hope you enjoy your next read more! Dedra @ A Book Wanderer recently posted… ARC Book Review | The Tourist Attraction by Sarah Morgenthaler

Ouch! Good thing it isn’t a genre I regularly read anyway!

Too bad this one didn’t measure up. Nice, honest review

Thank you. :)

Hood, honest review.

I superrr appreciate this review, because most of the reviews I read LOVED it. I think it’s important to realize that while the title is “beach read,” it’s much heavier than expected. So thank you for the heads up! Do you think this reads more like Women’s Fiction than “romance?” (Not 100% sure what the difference is but the lack of romantic elements in your review got me thinking.) Aila @ One Way Or An Author recently posted… From Blood And Ash Review by Jennifer L Armentrout | Taking Paranormal Aspects To Another Level

Thank you! You’re right, most of the reviews I’m seeing are also super positive and I’ve felt like the kid eating lunch alone in the school cafeteria. lol. I honestly think I would have rated this book higher if the cover and synopsis weren’t so misleading. I was completely caught off guard, and that’s not a good thing to do to a reader. I do think this reads more like women’s fiction, but not so much that I’d call it women’s fiction. Does that make sense? lol. It’s not really a romance for me because the tiny romance that was there felt forced and took a back seat to everything else, but it also didn’t have the sweeping stories and character development that I’ve read in women’s fiction. With WF, the story depends on elements other than romance and this one tried to be a romance and failed at it. I’m not sure where that puts it! Somewhere in the middle, under the huge umbrella that is contemporary fiction? I’m not sure. I’d love to find someone else who has read it and feels similar to me so that we could dissect it a little more. I read this weeks ago, and I still just feel unsettled when I think about it. lol. Thanks for your comment! You helped me think through my thoughts a little more with your question. :)

Sorry this one didn’t work for you! I read this one last week and really liked it. I was surprised that I felt so connected to January, but I think it was because I saw a bit of myself in her. I definitely agree that the book is a lot heavier than the cover depicts it to be.

I think this is the first negative review I have seen!! I have been dying to read this one and yet it sits on my “not active” shelf on NetGalley. Sorry you found it disappointing! Wish I could share my opinion on it, lol.

I’m currently reading this book. So far I love Gus. He seems like a chill guy. But I hopped on to see if anyone dislikes January as much as I do. The banter is getting annoying to me. Does she have to say something smart after every sentence that comes out of Gus’ mouth? hehe sorry I just needed to get that off my chest.

Yeah, Gus ended up being my favorite of the two characters. January really bothered me, too! I rarely run across a person who did not LOVe this book, so it’s nice to know someone else who has complaints!

I completely agree. Shes so annoying it hurts.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

Reader Voracious

April 14, 2022

Review: Beach Read by Emily Henry

Imagine this: you’re weeks into a reading slump and missing your favorite hobby so much. You glance at your colorful bookshelves longingly, with a silent wish that something would grip your attention so you can get lost in another world. A blue spine stands out among the paperback shelves… and here  Beach Read  is. You don’t know where it came from or how long its been there. But it calls to you so you get comfortable, crack it open, and are swept away by the most delightful of books.

Beach Read is a delight and cured my reading slump!

Read an Excerpt

Representation, content warnings, the verdict, recommended if you enjoyed…, let’s chat, about beach read.

Publisher: Berkley Books •  Release Date: May 19, 2020 •  Pages: 361 Age Range: Adult • Genre: Romance • Format: Paperback •  Source: Owned

📖 Authors fall in love 😈 Rivals to lovers

🏖️ Summertime setting 🤣 Laugh-out-loud funny

This post uses affiliate links and I may receive a small commission for purchases made through my links at no additional cost to you. Click here for more information.

StoryGraph Goodreads Amazon B&N Buy Indie Book Depository Libro.FM

✨ Read an excerpt from Beach Read on Bookreporter !

Casually queer world

child abuse recounted, death of a parent, grief and loss, parental infidelity recounted, suicide cults discussed

My Review of Beach Read

Beach Read is an absolute delight and I wish I could read it for the first time again . I don’t read a lot of romance, so the fact it was on my shelves is a bit surprising to me but I am so glad I own a copy of this delightfully funny and sarcastic rom-com! It feeds my soul in a way I don’t think I can articulate and quite frankly has opened my mind up to a slew of new reading opportunities.

“ That feeling that a new world was being spun like a spiderweb around you and you couldn’t move until the whole thing had revealed itself to you. “

Beach Read  is as much about writer’s block as it is about romance.  It’s a love letter to fiction and the craft of writing  when for one reason or another it’s become difficult. It’s about the craft of writing romance novels while itself being a romance novel – I adore how meta it feels.

“No matter how much shit, there will always be wildflowers.”

The  writing is instantly and effortlessly engaging  and the book is simply devourable – the very definition of a beach read. Emily Henry is skilled at writing tension and attraction: every interaction between the pair sparks. And as a Type A person who is very competitive, the whole concept of the writing bet between these two authors speaks to me.

You see, January Andrews has gone through it the last year and is very late to deliver her newest romance novel because it turns out it’s difficult to write about happy endings when your whole worldview has been shattered. She heads to a small town in Michigan to hunker down and write, only to find her next door neighbor is her rival from university. Her  ridiculously good looking rival  who barely knew she existed and is a “serious literary fiction” author.

Augustus Everett.  Gus . I don’t know why I am always for the broody type. One thing I really enjoyed about Gus is that January’s memory of him in college doesn’t quite match him in reality (isn’t that always the case?). First impressions and assumptions held over the years are tested while they both try to write their next book.

Enter: the bet.

January is to write a dark and gritty literary fiction book, Gus to write a romantic comedy. Each week they arrange outings and lessons to introduce each other to their genres. And as the weeks pass, they get closer and I felt like a giddy schoolgirl hoping they would hurry up and kiss already.

The barbed banter between Gus and MC is so good that I found myself  laughing out loud  often, falling quickly for this writing pair and hoping they would get together. All of the characters are soo full of life and well rounded, and I found myself relating to everyone at one point or another.  The world Henry crafted feels lived in and real.

“When it came down to it, we both wanted the same thing. A life cast in a magical glow, every moment bigger and brighter than the last.”

The way Gus stole my heart should be illegal. He is flawed and jaded and our view of him is limited to January’s POV, and I honestly kind of loved that (although Gus POVs would have been cool, too).

This  book is feel-good with a ton of heart for the genre . I had no expectations going into it and this book was exactly what I needed to shake the last vestiges of my reading slump: it’s  quick paced and laugh out loud funny , and it won’t be the last book by this author that I read!

Highly recommended to fans of romantic comedies and romance in general, particularly with sarcastic and quick-witted banter.

friends, I’m having the absolute best time reading BEACH READ ✨ pic.twitter.com/RoVonIAn5h — Kal @ Reader Voracious (@kalventure) March 31, 2022

Tokyo Ever After by Emiko Jean (YA)

For the Wolf by Hannah Whitten(Adult_

No two readers experience a book in the same way; this was mine, but what about you?

💬  Have you read Beach Read yet? If so, what are your thoughts? (I’m sure to be the last one to read it in the book community!)

💬  Did I convince you to add this book to your TBR?

💬  What are your favorite rom-com books? I NEED MORE LIKE THIS

Thank you so much to my Patrons for supporting me and my content! If you would like to support my work for as little as $2 per month and get some exclusive content from me, including reading vlogs, check out my Patreon !

Posts you may like

Contagion (Contagion #1) by Erin Bowman

Stalking Jack the Ripper (Stalking Jack the Ripper #1) by Kerri Maniscalo

ARC Book Review: I Killed Zoe Spanos by Kit Frick

Seven Deadly Shadows by Courtney Alameda and Valynne E. Maetani

Reader Interactions

10 comments.

April 25, 2022 at 5:15 PM

The writing bet was so much fun to read about especially when it’s sort of enemies to lovers as well – “hey, let’s bet on this, but oh wait, we didn’t have falling in love on our bingo card – oh noooo!” I don’t think I enjoyed it as much as you did (mostly because I’m hovering around a slump but haven’t fallen in just yet? I don’t know), but I’m really glad you loved it more and that it cured your reading slump (I won’t lie that it prevented me from truly falling into the slump hole, so that’s a definite plus).

Also speaking of romantic comedies, but maybe you’ll like You Deserve Each Other?

April 28, 2022 at 9:34 AM

I loved the whole premise of the book and the banter and the misunderstood nemesis situation. I’m sorry you didn’t love the book quite as much as me but you know what? Glad it kind of saved you from falling into the slump!

I am gonna have to check out You Deserve Each Other, thank you.

April 25, 2022 at 2:23 PM

Beach Read was by far my favorite read of 2020! And I said the same thing at the beginning of my review. As soon as I finished it, I wished I could unread it and read it again. So happy you enjoyed this one!

April 28, 2022 at 9:33 AM

I am still in AWE at how good Beach Read made me feel and how much I wish I could experience the book for the first time again. Have you read People We Meet on Vacation? I just read that one on Sunday and may have even loved it more?!!!?

April 22, 2022 at 5:10 PM

I’m so glad you enjoyed this! I read it last summer and loved it too. Expected to go in for all the fluff and wound up openly weeping through certain parts, but that just made me love it more! Great review ☺️

April 27, 2022 at 9:08 AM

I honestly think this book might have single-handedly helped to overwrite some of my personal internalized sexism when it comes to the romance genre? The book is so incredible and way more than I thought it would be. So glad you liked it, too!

April 15, 2022 at 8:25 AM

I wanted to get this ever since I first heard about it. Whoever read this has only good things to say. I can’t wait to get it now. Amazing review!

April 22, 2022 at 12:19 PM

Yea this book is basically universally loved, which usually spells Disaster for me, and in this case the hype is justified. I enjoyed it so much and honestly can’t wait to read more from the author. I hope you love the book too!

April 14, 2022 at 10:51 PM

Yay for getting out of reading slumps! and did you say sarcastic rom-com?! I have so many books on my TBR already but I’m definitely adding Beach Read to my list because it sounds so good 😱 Thanks for the review, Kal!

April 22, 2022 at 12:18 PM

IT IS SO SARCASTIC, Veronica! I don’t know why I love snarky banter so much, but if you do too this will be a delightful read! I hope you enjoy the book as much as I do when you finally get to it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

thereadervoracious

• 451,106 hits

Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email.

Email Address

Privacy Overview

Advertise   Contact   Privacy

Browse All Reviews

New Releases

List Reviews by Rating

List Reviews by Author

List Reviews by Title

Beach Read (Review, Recap & Full Summary)

By emily henry.

Book review, full book summary and synopsis for Beach Read by Emily Henry, a cute and sexy but somewhat somber romance where opposites attract .

In Beach Read , January Adams is a plucky chick lit writer who moves into a lake house to try to eke out a novel she owes to her publisher. But with her happily-ever-after worldview in question -- she recently found out her parent's happy marriage was a lie and was dumped by a boyfriend who didn't want to deal with the resulting emotional turmoil -- she's having a hard time writing about romance.

At the lake house, she finds out her neighbor is the handsome but grumpy Augustus "Gus" Everett, a novelist and former college acquaintance slash rival slash crush, who is working on his next book as well.

As they reacquaint themselves, they come up with a bet. January will try to write a serious work of literary fiction, while Gus will attempt to write something happy for once. It's a plan formulated to get January's creativity flowing again, with perhaps a bit of romance on the side...

(The Full Plot Summary is also available, below)

Full Plot Summary

January Andrews is a chick lit novelist whose life is a bit of a wreck following the death of her father, Walt . At the funeral, she meets Sonya , his mistress, revealing that he had been cheating on his mother the whole time and shattering her idea of their happy marriage. January is also now semi-homeless and single, because her (now ex) boyfriend Jacques couldn't deal with her emotional fallout. As a result of it all, January is disillusioned about love, which has made it hard for her to write about romance.

Sonya also gives January a letter from her father and the key to his secret love nest, a lake house in North Bear Shores, Michigan . January moves there to write, and her neighbor turn out to be the handsome but grumpy Augustus Everett ("Gus" or "SEG"), a former college rival. In college, they both competed for the same writing prizes, and he made fun of her upbeat writing. He was also a womanizer and commitment-phobe. Now, he writes literary fiction.

When January confides in him about her writer's block, they come up with a challenge. Gus will write a happily-ever-after, and January will try her hand at literary fiction. Whoever sells their book first, wins. The loser has to help promote the other's book. They also agree to educate each other on their respective genres. January and Gus each work on their books during the week, hang out at night, and on weekends they each get one day to plan an "educational" activity for the other. Gus takes January on a series of interviews and visits regarding a cult called New Eden that was once located in the area. January takes Gus to things like a beach day, a carnival, a rom-com movie marathon, and other romantic fodder.

As they get to know each other, January tells Gus about her mother's cancer, her father's betrayal, her her ex and so forth. Gus is more guarded but, with some help from Gus's aunt Pete , January eventually learns about Gus's abusive father, the death of his mother and how his ex-wife Naomi left him for his best friend, Parker .

Things heat up romantically between January and Gus, but January also recognizes that he has deep trust issues that need to be addressed. When January finally confronts Gus about his behavior, he admits that he's been crazy about her since college and has been scared of his feelings because he's still such a mess right now. Their romantic relationship continues to grow and January finally finishes her book. However, Naomi then shows up looking for Gus, and afterwards he is nowhere to be found.

Sonya also shows up, demanding to talk to January. She explains how Walt was her first boyfriend back in high school, and they had initially reconnected when January's parents were separated. Walt had been planning on moving to North Bear Shores until January's mother was diagnosed with cancer, which ended things. However, Sonya and Walt later rekindled their now-illicit romance, but again it petered off when January's mother finally got better. Sonya also urges January to finally read the letter he left her. It leads January to a stack of letters from her father, one written on each of her birthdays, as well as the keys to a boat that is named after her.

When Gus reappears, he tells January that Naomi has split up with Parker and wants to get back together. However, he knows he wants to be with January. Nine months later, January receives the advanced copies of her book, and Gus's book has been completed as well. When Gus's advanced copy comes in, January sees that it is dedicated to her, and she tells him she loves him.

For more detail, see the full Section-by-Section Summary .

If this summary was useful to you, please consider supporting this site by leaving a tip ( $2 , $3 , or $5 ) or joining the Patreon !

Book Review

Summer is upon us, and Beach Read by Emily Henry was recommended to me by a friend as something to take my mind off of the world going up in flames around us. Why not? I thought. As the title not-so-subtle-ly hints, it’s a beach read (well, sort of) romance, with the tried and true formula of opposites attracting — but, it also hints cryptically on the back cover that “no one will fall in love” in the course of this novel. Hmm.

Now, I realize these are the machinations of a marketing machine at work (Beach read just in time for the summer! A romance novel where no one falls in love!), but I’m also sort of okay with just … letting it happen. I was intrigued! It had good reviews! My friend liked it! And I was in the mood for something that doesn’t make me feel miserable about the world! So, yeah, I caved to the marketing gods.

I liked the premise of book a lot. The way they get thrown together is kind of cutesy (two writers with opposite personalities living next to each other who make a bet!), but it’s believable enough to come off as charming. Like, it’s not unfathomable that two writers could end up being neighbors.

As for the story, it’s got a blend of thorough character development and plenty of (slightly torrid) romance, plus a sprinkling of comedic asides and sex (gasp!). I would say it’s got a little more substance that your typical chick lit, though it does add some moroseness to the tone of the book. Of course, no one will mistake this for a work of literary fiction, but I don’t think that’s a bad thing. Not everyone is in the mood for literary fiction all the time!

Honestly, I struggled a little writing this review because I could definitely see the right reader really enjoying this book, but I personally didn’t love it. I was hoping for a much breezier read than this turned out to be. While there are many light and funny parts of Beach Read , it’s mixed in with quite a bit of more morose sections.

I still think it more or less qualifies as a “beach read”, as the title implies, though the book is notably less beachy than the title and cover art would lead you to believe. And the serious parts are necessary for the plot and character development. However, it just wasn’t what I’d been looking for when I picked up this book.

I think if you’re someone who likes chick lit and wants something that tosses in something a bit more serious to give the story more heft, then you’ll be delighted by this book. On the other hand, if you’re like me and you’re just looking for a bit of fun, maybe hold off on this one. (I have mixed feelings about the phrase “chick lit” but I still find it be the most effective way to convey what genre of book I’m talking about, since “romance” novel seems to have a slightly different connotation. Feel free to drop a comment if you have an alternative moniker to suggest.)

I also have a few more criticisms in the Spoiler-ish Thoughts section, but I won’t state them here. Final note: It’s told in first person. Doesn’t bother me, but I know some people don’t like that.

What in the Devil is Up With That Book Club Scene

Okay, this is silly and not important, but can we talk about the book club scene, please? No spoilers, don’t worry.

Basically, there’s a scene where our two protagonists (who are both novelists) get invited to a party, which turns out to be a book club meeting. It’s meant to be a funny hijinks-type scenario as our drunken heroine tries to figure out what’s going on or what book they’re talking about, but come on! This is just nonsensical and as a writer who presumably has some affinity for books and book clubs, Emily Henry should know better.

What kind of weirdo invites not one but two published novelists to a book club meeting and a) doesn’t bother to tell them what book they’re reading and b) doesn’t tell them it’s a book club? Gus notes that maybe it’s because he wouldn’t have gone if he knew, but what about January? Oh, and also why did no one who attended bother to bring the book? January very obviously should have been able to just glance around to see what book it was. It’s usually not some state secret what book is being discussed. Her being all lost and confused is just silly. COME ON, EMILY, THAT IS NOT HOW A BOOK CLUB WORKS.

Look, I’m joking, I’m joking, it doesn’t matter, but also I’m kind of serious, and you know what, it does matter. I can understand when writers butcher scenes about stuff that’s complicated to understand, but a book club? Tsk.

Audiobook Review

I listened to a lot of this on audiobook, and I thought it was very well done. It’s voiced by Julia Whelan, and her narration is crisp, quick-paced and does a good job of conveying emotion or emphases with crossing into cheesy or over dramatic territory. If you’re interested in this book, the audiobook is a more than serviceable option for “reading” it.

Anyway, I liked it, and you can listen to a clip to see if you’d like it, too.

Read it or Skip it?

If you like chick lit and are up for a more somber story, then I’d recommend checking this book out. Personally, it wasn’t as breezy of a read as I was hoping it would be. I like my chick lit to be more of the “Confessions of a Shopaholic”-type story where it’s all sort of lighthearted fun.

Beach Read is fun in parts and sexy and sometimes funny, but it’s just as often more serious and even a bit dour in tone. But if you’re up for it, it does offer solid character development and a premise that’s likely to appeal to book lovers.

See Beach Read on Amazon.

Spoiler-ish Thoughts

Spoilers begin here. You’ve been warned. I was pretty disappointed when I realized the book was turning into a “oh, he’s just distant because he’s scared of his feelings”-type story. I really don’t like this type of character in chick lit (or any type of romance), and it’s annoying it comes up all the time.

Quite frankly, I don’t find the concept of emotionally distant men to be romantic, like, at all. I also think it’s not realistic that there are so many characters that are attractive, intelligent guys that are simply too scared of their feelings. I mean, maybe if it’s some kid in high school, but grown men, in my experience, who are interested in you will act like it. Guys who are being difficult or running hot and cold have either lukewarm or un-serious feelings about you.

I also hated how he had some sob story about his parents as the excuse for why he sucks at relationships. Seriously, guys who tell these types of stories about how they’re so sad and broken and can’t love properly two weeks into dating you are always the biggest assholes. Guys who want to be with you want to convince you that they’re date-able — they might have baggage, but they’re not going to be foisting it around like an excuse. Guys who warn you early on that they suck are playing on your emotions; if some dude tells you he’s not date-able, you should believe him!

(For any Janeites/Austenites out there, this is why I am very much #TeamKnightly and fairly anti-Mr. Darcy.)

Finally, can we please talk about how the book cover totally lied? It said no one would fall in love, so I was expecting some clever twist. I felt a little cheated by the end, honestly. And plus, the cover makes it look like it’s set in a bright and sunny place, but instead it’s in Michigan by a lake. Bait and switch, anyone?

Book Excerpt

Read the first pages of Beach Read

Related Content

Share this post

Middle of the Night

The Housemaid is Watching

She’s Not Sorry

The Seven Year Slip

Darling Girls

It Finally Happened + Summer Romances

Best Literary Fiction of 2024 (New & Anticipated)

The Housemaid Book Series Recap

2024’s Best Book Club Books (New & Anticipated)

Bookshelf: Development Diary

Share your thoughts Cancel reply

That’s the thing about book cover design. Sometimes it echoes the theme of the book, other times, it just misleads the reader, and looks like this one falls in the latter :( Sorry this didn’t live up to your expectations. Well, on to the next! :) How are you?

So true! I’m good, though I took a break from book blogging for a while. I’m going to go check out your blog to find some book recs since I need to tee up my upcoming reading list! Hope all is well with you too!

Life has been ok so far. Yes, it’s so important to take a break from book blogging once in awhile. I took mine too earlier this year, then came back when I felt ready :)

Hey, Jennifer! Glad to stumble upon your review! It feels really bad when things get unrealistic in books :/

Thanks for your review! Lake Michigan is quite nice in the summer though ;)

I didn’t finish it, half way through I decided to not waste anymore time on this book. Just didn’t spark my interest.

Review: Beach Read by Emily Henry

Beach Read by Emily Henry is one of the first summer reads to hit shelves this year and I was lucky enough to review it here on The Nerd Daily. This novel pits author versus author as they try to out write each other at their own game. One specialises in the happy ever afters and the other loves to twist the metaphorical knife and wrench away any ounce of good by the time you reach the ending. It’s definitely an interesting battle and both characters match each other in intellectual wit, but for me, the romance fell somewhat flat.

When I read that this was a story with a main character who reconnects with someone they loathed, it reminded me of the fiery passion between Lucy and Joshua from Sally Thorne’s novel, The Hating Game, because of their shared history. I expected a similar animosity in here but unfortunately that chemistry wasn’t present. This was an extremely strong emotional drama, centred around two characters who have seen the downs in life and how they can hope to recover some sense of happiness and normality that has been ripped away from them.

This book does handle VERY strong situations like the loss of loved ones and all that comes with that so be careful before proceeding. Henry wrote this novel with an intense and very real understanding of just how much that can change someone’s life. It’s heart wrenchingly accurate. You will feel January’s sadness seep through the pages so be ready.

Like I said this book centres around two writers trying to write something they usually shy away from and what was good about that (besides the obvious!) was how Henry actually included what their stories were about. It wasn’t just them sitting down and writing, but rather how they got there; what inspired them, any truth to their stories etc… As you follow the story, you are exposed to two more and I really enjoyed that artistic inclusion. You get to learn about cults, carnivals, and complicated familial relationships. I really appreciated seeing the process and how you can be inspired by your surroundings or by a person’s life and it makes one fall in love with writing all over again and that’s powerful. I could get inside January and Gus’ characters better because I could relate with their writing struggles. It gives hope to those who haven’t gotten far with their own. The whole book is so inspiring and that was a very nice and unexpected surprise. I went in thinking this was a light and easy rom-com and I finished with a new perspective on tackling this world of writing.

I absolutely ADORE communicating through notes to spur romantic feelings. It seems old fashioned, but when January and Gus did it, it was exactly like that Taylor Swift music video…as mentioned! It shows a progression of their relationship that wasn’t manipulated or established by technology, which was a refreshing change. It suited the theme and setting of cottage country and escaping to beach house oasis where things like that are an afterthought. If you liked The Flatshare by Beth O’Leary, I’d definitely give this book a shot because this plays a huge role in January and Gus’s story just like it did for Tiffy and Leon in theirs.

Many times I found scenes from January and Gus’s past were summarised rather than actually flashing back and painting a picture of what happened and I think this might have happened because both characters know what happened having been there when it happened, but unfortunately for the reader, we were not. I think that’s a missed opportunity because a lot of things are communicated through a simple gesture like a glance or a brushed shoulder, which only gets lost in summarisation. It’s sometimes more powerful to paint the picture rather than snapping a quick photo and moving on.

This also happened when January would reminisce about her father and her childhood memories. I feel like I didn’t get the entire story this way. I know that this works when those missing details are left out on purpose so they can become that unsuspected twist or giant reveal that the character didn’t know at the time, but I think this method should be used in moderation because I felt like I was missing some of that emotion from the past because they the characters already got over it. However, as the reader, I had no clue how it felt in that moment and I missed that impact of seeing it unfold. It became more of a tell than a show of the plot and everything that played into the characters’ lives leading up to this point.

It was also sad not getting to read their “meet-cute” as it happened because for them, it was years earlier to when the novel started. I live for those looks and glances, those hidden things that become so important to reading people and their feelings. And it’s that exact scene where all the passion and chemistry stem from, which is why I think their love story fell flat.

“And that was the moment I realized: when the world felt dark and scary, love could whisk you off to go dancing; laughter could take some of the pain away; beauty could punch holes in your fear. I decided then that my life would be full of all three. Not just for my own benefit, but for mom’s, and for everyone else around me.”

However, I did end up falling in love with January’s philosophy on writing. Through all her tragedies, she was still able to find the beauty in another world, one of her own choosing and I loved that outlook. It’s a rare optimism and a great way to look at ones writing.

“Southern Comfort sounds pretty sexy,’ he said. ‘You have a thing for Southern boys? No teeth and overalls really rev your engine?”

This had me laughing so hard I was starting to get strange looks from my family and I’m 100 percent serious here. Gus has this rugged charisma built on intellect and sarcastic wit and yet he can joke with January. He can tease her without her clamming up and backing down from a fight. She tries to out argue him and that made for some great comebacks like this one above. Their romance is flirty when she doesn’t think he remembers her and then it gets emotional when she finds more under the surface than just a broody jerk…as it usually does! I just wish that there was more banter like this before it got heavier. I missed the teasing and it felt like things got real too quick for this hopeless romantic to appreciate.

I loved Henry’s writing and how she related the narrative to writing and how that nicely tied into both the characters and the story she was crafting. Unfortunately for me the romance got heavy too quick and in the process the cute witty sparring matches that opposites like January and Gus have that attribute to the fiery chemistry that people seek out in romantic comedies fell flat. There were a lot of great tidbits in here that I loved as they circled back to why someone writes and how they go about it. Life lessons were aplenty as well and this is a story that has rough edges and tragedies dusted throughout giving a real depiction of how it goes for the people left behind. This was a raw, emotional drama that is not your typical light hearted rom-com. It will make you see the world differently and it might even expose you to another side of the one you know already.

Beach Read is available from Amazon , Book Depository , and other good book retailers, like your local bookstore!

Will you be picking up  Beach Read ? Tell us in the comments below!

Synopsis | Goodreads

January Book Releases

A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters.

Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast.

They’re polar opposites.

In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block.

Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.

Review: Pay Dirt Road by Samantha Jayne Allen

Review: Good Girls Don’t Die by Christina Henry

Read An Excerpt From ‘Look Closer’ by David Ellis

Review: Saving Ruby King by Catherine Adel West

Review: Until Summer Comes Around by Glenn Rolfe

Review: The Antidote For Everything by Kimmery Martin

Review: A Ladder To The Sky by John Boyne

Review: Miracle Creek by Angie Kim

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Zeen is a next generation WordPress theme. It’s powerful, beautifully designed and comes with everything you need to engage your visitors and increase conversions.

Top Reviews

Movie review: free guy, tv review: normal people, lovecraft country recap: 1.05 ‘strange case’, lovecraft country recap: 1.06 ‘meet me in daegu’.

Common Sense Media

Movie & TV reviews for parents

• For Parents
• For Educators
• Our Work and Impact

Or browse by category:

• Movie Reviews
• Best Movie Lists
• Best Movies on Netflix, Disney+, and More

Common Sense Selections for Movies

50 Modern Movies All Kids Should Watch Before They're 12

• Best TV Lists
• Best TV Shows on Netflix, Disney+, and More
• Common Sense Selections for TV
• Video Reviews of TV Shows

Best Kids' Shows on Disney+

Best Kids' TV Shows on Netflix

• Book Reviews
• Best Book Lists
• Common Sense Selections for Books

8 Tips for Getting Kids Hooked on Books

50 Books All Kids Should Read Before They're 12

• Game Reviews
• Best Game Lists

Common Sense Selections for Games

• Video Reviews of Games

Nintendo Switch Games for Family Fun

• Podcast Reviews
• Best Podcast Lists

Common Sense Selections for Podcasts

Parents' Guide to Podcasts

• App Reviews
• Best App Lists

Social Networking for Teens

Gun-Free Action Game Apps

Reviews for AI Apps and Tools

• YouTube Channel Reviews
• YouTube Kids Channels by Topic

Parents' Ultimate Guide to YouTube Kids

YouTube Kids Channels for Gamers

• Preschoolers (2-4)
• Little Kids (5-7)
• Big Kids (8-9)
• Pre-Teens (10-12)
• Teens (13+)
• Screen Time
• Social Media
• Online Safety
• Identity and Community

How to Help Kids Build Character Strengths with Quality Media

• Family Tech Planners
• Digital Skills
• All Articles
• Latino Culture
• Black Voices
• Asian Stories
• Native Narratives
• LGBTQ+ Pride
• Best of Diverse Representation List

Multicultural Books

YouTube Channels with Diverse Representations

Podcasts with Diverse Characters and Stories

• Common Sense Says
• Parents Say 1 Review
• Kids Say 0 Reviews

Common Sense Media Review

Slow-burn summer romance is charming and introspective.

Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Beach Read by Emily Henry is a slow-burn adult romance set on the shores of Lake Michigan where January Andrews, a 28-year-old romance writer struggling with writer's block, is spending the summer. When her next-door neighbor turns out to be an old college adversary, animosity and…

Why Age 15+?

Adults engage in heated kissing and makeout sessions that eventually culminate i

The main character, who is an adult, drinks a lot of hard alcohol and is frequen

Infrequent swearing includes: "f--k," "s--t," "d--k," "ass," "Jesus," and "God."

Memories of child abuse are discussed a few times. Main characters interview sur

Some American cultural references to set character and tone.

Any Positive Content?

Life is worth living even in the hard times. Friendships are as important as rom

Both main characters persevere through many emotional challenges and exhibit per

The main character presents as White. The love interest is described with olive-

Characters explain their novel-writing process. Minor descriptions of Lake Michi

Sex, Romance & Nudity

Adults engage in heated kissing and makeout sessions that eventually culminate in consensual sex. Sex is described with moderate detail that includes undressing, fondling breasts, oral sex, intercourse, and orgasms. The same characters have sex a few times, but only the first time is described in detail. Characters delay intercourse until they have access to condoms. There are many sexual jokes made, including references to blow jobs, sex dungeons and casual sex.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Sex, Romance & Nudity in your kid's entertainment guide.

Drinking, Drugs & Smoking

The main character, who is an adult, drinks a lot of hard alcohol and is frequently drunk. She uses drinking to drown her sorrows, but the negative consequences, such as hangovers, are also shown. Characters drink at social events, on dates, and after work, but they make a point never to drink and drive. There are a few mentions of pot, though the main characters never indulge in any drugs. One character jokingly calls hard drugs a "boredom EpiPen."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Drinking, Drugs & Smoking in your kid's entertainment guide.

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Language in your kid's entertainment guide.

Violence & Scariness

Memories of child abuse are discussed a few times. Main characters interview survivors of a former neo-religious cult that perpetrated physical abuse; mentions of people burned to death and other "punishments."

Did you know you can flag iffy content? Adjust limits for Violence & Scariness in your kid's entertainment guide.

Products & Purchases

Positive messages.

Life is worth living even in the hard times. Friendships are as important as romantic relationships. People can make mistakes and still be good people. Love is worth fighting for.

Positive Role Models

Both main characters persevere through many emotional challenges and exhibit personal growth over the course of the book, though they struggle with honesty, leap to conclusions, and drink heavily at times, making them realistic, imperfect, role models. Friendships are deep and long lasting, and friends are there for one another in difficult times. Family relationships are nuanced and sometimes challenging. While some characters exhibit unsavory behaviors, no one is vilified for their actions and other characters strive for empathy and patience in their dealings with these people.

Diverse Representations

The main character presents as White. The love interest is described with olive-toned skin. One character is of South Asian descent. Side characters include a pair of happily married, older lesbians. Characters come from mostly middle-class families. Sexism in the publishing industry is discussed.

Did we miss something on diversity? Suggest an update.

Educational Value

Characters explain their novel-writing process. Minor descriptions of Lake Michigan in various seasons.

Parents need to know that Beach Read by Emily Henry is a slow-burn adult romance set on the shores of Lake Michigan where January Andrews, a 28-year-old romance writer struggling with writer's block, is spending the summer. When her next-door neighbor turns out to be an old college adversary, animosity and sexual tension ignite. Sex includes heated kissing and makeout sessions that eventually culminate in consensual sex. Sex is described with moderate detail that includes undressing, fondling breasts, oral sex, intercourse, and orgasms. Adult characters also engage in a great deal of drinking, both socially and alone, hoping to drown their sorrows. Violence includes a few mentions of past child abuse, and investigations into a former cult with mentions of people burned to death. Infrequent swearing includes "f--k," "s--t," "d--k," "ass," "Jesus," and "God."

Where to Read

Parent and kid reviews.

• Parents say (1)

Based on 1 parent review

What's the Story?

In BEACH READ, romance writer January Andrews' world has been turned upside down by the death of her father and the subsequent revelation of his secret double life. She arrives in North Bear Shores, Michigan, to clean out her father's secret love nest while trying to overcome the writer's block that's plagued her since his death—only to discover that the next-door neighbor is none other than her college nemesis, and best-selling author, Augustus Everett. As the two main characters challenge one another to write outside their respective genres, and the tension between them grows, January is forced to consider if love can truly exist in a less than perfect world.

Is It Any Good?

This charming, slow-burn romance delves into heady questions such as the nature of love and self-worth. A romance novel about a romance novelist, Beach Read by bestselling author Emily Henry, is deeply ironic at times as the protagonist, January Andrews, contemplates the nature of love stories while mired in writer's block. The idea for this book came to Henry during a bout of her own writer's block, and aspiring writers will appreciate the scenes where January and Gus, also an author, embark on research missions and epic writing sessions. But as fun as the romance is, January's propensity to jump to conclusions and her desire for honesty from Gus while providing little of her own may leave the reader frustrated; one honest conversation could resolve their conflict.

The plot structure is classic romance, with the meet-cutes, witty banter, and sexual tension readers expect from the genre, and it could all feel derivative. But the book is more than just a light summer love story. As January struggles with how to write a romance novel when her own notion of love has been overshadowed by tragedy, she's free to take a hard look at what love really is—and what it's not. A witty, original romance that fans of the genre, and even some who are not, will enjoy.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

Families can talk about the secrets kept by January's parents. Should they have come to light before her father's death?

How does January persevere despite her writer's block? How does her commitment to writing her novel reflect on her character?

The story is told from January's point of view. How do you think it would change if told through Gus' eyes?

Book Details

• Author : Emily Henry
• Genre : Romance
• Topics : Friendship
• Character Strengths : Perseverance
• Book type : Fiction
• Publisher : Berkley
• Publication date : May 19, 2020
• Publisher's recommended age(s) : 18 - 18
• Number of pages : 400
• Available on : Paperback, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
• Last updated : July 10, 2024

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

Suggest an Update

What to read next.

A Million Junes

To All the Boys I've Loved Before, Book 1

From Twinkle, with Love

Teen romance novels, beach reads, related topics.

• Perseverance

Want suggestions based on your streaming services? Get personalized recommendations

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

Book Thoughts from Bed

A place for book reviews and recommendations.

Book Review: Beach Read by Emily Henry

Beach Read is a smart romance that would, indeed, be a great book to read during your summer vacation.

This post may contain Amazon Affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. (This in no way affects the honesty of my reviews!) All commissions will be donated to the ALS Association.

I don’t review many romances, but I was ready for a change of pace and Beach Read received such good reviews that it seemed like just the thing to satisfy my desire to lighten things up a bit. I wasn’t disappointed. But this doesn’t mean it was a frothy romance – the book tackles some weighty topics but the very witty banter between the likable hero and heroine kept the story from becoming too heavy.

A summary of Beach Read from Goodreads:

“A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters.

Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast.

They’re polar opposites.

In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block.

Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.”

Buy now on Amazon!

Spoiler alert – of course they fall in love!

January and Augustus actually have a past. They went to college together, where January considered him an arrogant writing rival. By a twist of fate, they end up next door to each other in a vacation town on Lake Michigan. They’re both licking their wounds from recent betrayals and heartache.

They slowly get to know each other and lower their barriers. This was really well done – no insta-love, just two wounded people really getting to know each other, warts and all, while falling in love. The chemistry between January and Augustus was palpable. Their clever conversations, funny “dates,” and respect for each other make them one of my favorite romance couples.

If you like smart romances and don’t mind some steamy sex scenes, check out Beach Read. I think you’ll like it!

What smart romances have YOU read recently?

Share this:

• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

5 thoughts on “ Book Review: Beach Read by Emily Henry ”

I really appreciate all of your reviews. They are considerate and well written. Thanks!

Like Liked by 1 person

Thank you so much! I appreciate the kind words!

You make this book sound so good! I recently finished “People We Meet on Vacation,” also by Emily Henry and I really enjoyed it, so this book sounds like something I would like. Thank you for the great review!

Hi! Thanks for commenting. I’d like to read more by this author so thanks for recommending People We Meet on Vacation!

Pingback: 2024 Thoughtful Reading Challenge | Book Thoughts from Bed

Leave a comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

• Bookreporter
• ReadingGroupGuides
• AuthorsOnTheWeb

The Book Report Network

Sign up for our newsletters!

Regular Features

Author spotlights, "bookreporter talks to" videos & podcasts, "bookaccino live: a lively talk about books", favorite monthly lists & picks, seasonal features, book festivals, sports features, bookshelves.

• Coming Soon

Newsletters

• Weekly Update
• On Sale This Week

Fall Reading

• Summer Reading
• Spring Preview
• Winter Reading
• Holiday Cheer

Word of Mouth

Submitting a book for review, write the editor, you are here:.

Following a highly successful career as a young adult novelist, Emily Henry turns her eye to adult romance with BEACH READ, a laugh-out-loud, emotionally resonant exploration of love, writing and, yes, death cults.

January Andrews is a bestselling women’s fiction writer. Or at least she was, until her father died suddenly, her family imploded and she found herself unable to pen anything remotely happy or romantic. For years, January thought she had the perfect family: together she and her parents had beaten her mother’s cancer, launched her own successful writing career and stayed close throughout all of it. But when her father dies suddenly, and a mysterious woman arrives at his funeral, January realizes that her family was not as close-knit and happy as she thought.

Drowning in her own despair, January is soon dumped by her perfect boyfriend and is essentially homeless. Even worse, her father has left her a beach house that he once shared with her . With her mother refusing to talk about what happened, January finds herself alone in a bohemian beach house with only an impending book deadline to keep her company. Oh, and an incredibly grumpy neighbor who just happens to be her insanely talented and shockingly handsome college rival.

"...a laugh-out-loud, emotionally resonant exploration of love, writing and, yes, death cults....True to its title, BEACH READ is the perfect beach read..."

Jonathan Franzen-like in his talent, Augustus Everett arrived in January’s college writing class with a dark background and a sharp dislike of her particular brand of literature. Though they took turns beating each other in class discussions and seminars, they also shared one intense night on the dance floor of a frat party --- and though she has fallen in love since then, nothing has quite matched the heat of that evening for her. Until now.

As January packs up and prepares to sell her father’s illicit love shack, she learns, to her dismay, that Augustus is the local golden boy, and that his small town family and friends want nothing more than to see them become friends --- after all, they’re both writers, so they must have something in common. It turns out they do: they are both in a rut, writing-wise, and desperate to make their next books happen.

After numerous meet-cutes and witty banter sessions, the two strike up a bargain: January will pen the next Great American Novel, and Augustus will write a book with a happy ending. Whoever sells their book first not only will win, but will have it blurbed, praised and talked about by the other. Of course, both are experts at their craft, so they do not leave the other hanging. In addition to the bet, they will help each other with their research --- Augustus will take January to interview former death cult members on Fridays, and January will take Augustus to romantic settings on Saturdays. What could possibly go wrong?

BEACH READ is a quintessential rom-com with lots of heart, just enough heartbreak and all the witty banter you could ever want. But that’s not all. Henry has produced a thoroughly wonderful romance novel that not only ensures a happy ending (sorry, Augustus) but weaves in plenty of important topics, like infidelity, acceptance, abuse and the importance of self-discovery.

When we meet January and Augustus, they are at an impasse in their lives: January feels like she no longer believes in love, and Augustus is, well, a bit of a headcase. Raised in a dysfunctional family, he is obsessed with the darkness in humans and what makes them feel like they cannot escape it. So January is a bit like the flame to his moth --- the once-happy-go-lucky romance writer he once knew is now drinking wine out of her purse and yelling at her neighbors in dirty sweatpants. Similarly, January’s interest in Augustus comes not only from her college rivalry, but also from the loss of her belief in perfection, which allows her to explore and accept Augustus’ flaws. And did I mention the witty banter?

Emily Henry is absolutely masterful in her dialogue. She never wastes a word, and though the banter is every bit as sarcastic and punchy as you’d expect in a rom-com, it never feels forced or unnatural. She employs pop culture, literary references and her characters’ own personalities to make every line even stronger than the last. However, I would have liked to have seen more of Augustus’ side of the story. So many romances are written with two perspectives these days, so I was disappointed that there were no Augustus chapters.

Even so, January is a perfectly riveting protagonist, and I loved her for her sweetness, her loyalty and her limitless (if momentarily suspended) belief in love and happily-ever-afters. True to its title, BEACH READ is the perfect beach read, and I suspect that Henry will have many readers itching for her next foray into romance.

Reviewed by Rebecca Munro on May 29, 2020

Beach Read by Emily Henry

• Publication Date: May 19, 2020
• Genres: Comedy , Fiction , Humor , Romance , Women's Fiction
• Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Berkley
• ISBN-10: 1984806734
• ISBN-13: 9781984806734

Quickie Book Review: ‘Beach Read’ by Emily Henry

“𝕀’𝕧𝕖 𝕟𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕞𝕖𝕥 𝕤𝕠𝕞𝕖𝕠𝕟𝕖 𝕨𝕙𝕠 𝕚𝕤 𝕤𝕠 𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕗𝕖𝕔𝕥𝕝𝕪 𝕞𝕪 𝕗𝕒𝕧𝕠𝕣𝕚𝕥𝕖 𝕡𝕖𝕣𝕤𝕠𝕟.”

Publisher Description : Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They’re polar opposites. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block.

Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.

My Thoughts: ⁣Funny and sweet and heartfelt, Emily Henry’s Beach Read isn’t your typical ‘beach read’ despite its title. Following January and Gus — former college rivals-turned bestselling authors who wind up living next door to each other in Michigan amid personal tragedies and drama — it’s a bit of a meta look at writing a romance novel and all the tropes that come along with that. ⁣ ⁣Enemies to lovers? Check. But also second chance romance? Check. Grumbly, sexy, dark male protagonist and seemingly innocent incorruptible female protagonist? Check. But it all works! It’s smarter and deeper than your average breezy romance, and exceptionally funnier. Hiiiighly recommend.⁣

Book Review: ‘Heads of the Colored People’ by Nafissa Thompson-Spires

Book review: ‘long bright river’ by liz moore.

• Non-Fiction
• Author’s Corner
• Reader’s Corner
• Writing Guide
• Book Marketing Services
• Write for us

Beach Read by Emily Henry

Two Writers, One Holiday. A Rom-com Waiting to Happen...

• Publisher: Berkley
• Genre:  Contemporary Romance
• First Publication: 2020
• Language:  English
• Setting: North Bear Shores, Michigan (United States), Michigan (United States)
• Characters: Augustus Everett, January Andrews

If you’re in desperate need of an utterly charming, feel-good romantic escape this summer , look no further than Emily Henry’s delightful “Beach Read.” This tale of two polar opposite writers—one an incurable romantic and the other a cynical literary snob—getting roped into a genre-swapping bet is pure sun-drenched fun from start to finish. But don’t mistake this for mere fluffy, disposable fare. Beneath the witty banter and swoony seaside chemistry, Henry sneaks in soulful commentary on grief, writer’s block , and hard-won second chances at life and love. A warm hug of a romantic comedy elevated by rich emotional substance.

January Andrews is the quintessential incurable romantic – she narrates her whole world through the rose-colored lenses of the soapy drama plots she pens for her bestselling books. So when the ultimate real-life heartbreak decimates her writing mojo and sends January retreating to seaside solace, you just know big life re-calibrations are brewing.

Enter her polar opposite, Augustus Everett, the curmudgeonly next-door neighbor reeling from his own post-divorce doldrums. As a brooding literary fiction author whose snobbish cynicism puts him perpetually at odds with January’s sunny optimism, the two strike up an unconventional bet – they’ll swap genres for the summer and vie to get their drastically out-of-comfort-zone manuscripts published first.

What ensues is a thoroughly addictive, slow-burn romantic dance as these two vastly different personalities bond over their creative anxieties and messy personal baggage. Henry deftly juggles both the charming enemies-to-lovers courtship tradition and emotionally richer threads around the duo’s respective grief journeys, family reconciliations, and hard lessons about not allowing past traumas to ossify into jaded resignation.

But far more than the will-they-won’t-they suspense, it’s the author’s tender insights into the writing process itself—the vulnerability, therapeutic self-reflection, and psychological hurdles one must confront to create something authentic—that lend surprising gravity to all the sun-kissed romantic dalliances and witty exchanges.

Main Character Analysis:

Henry leans into familiar romantic lead archetypes with January and Gus only to dismantle their facades with empathetic, nuanced characterization over the course of their arcs. January initially presents as the classic bubbly romantic heroine who craves cliche fairy-tale endings. But her underlying grief over losing the one person who most shaped her worldview fuels real vulnerability beyond the superficial rom-com sheen.

Gus, meanwhile, embraces the veneer of the gruff, cynical artist too consumed by lofty ideals of literary seriousness to embrace earnest human connections. But Henry makes sure to expose the cracks in his self-serious persona, revealing how much of his emotional constipation stems from toxic masculine conditioning and complicated relationships with father figures.

Rather than traffic in broad archetypes, these two feel like beautifully well-rounded individuals navigating justified personal demons and discovering their true artistic identities. Watching them foster each others’ self-discovery and catharsis proves as fulfilling as the will-they-won’t-they romantic tension.

Writing Style:

Henry’s prose flows with an effervescent charm and easy conversational energy that perfectly captures the essence of an idyllic summer escape. She balances generous helpings of wry humor with poignantly introspective observations about grief, life’s fragility, and creativity’s challenges. These tonal ebb-and-flow dynamics mirror the respective romantic and literary sensibilities of January and Gus themselves.

But Henry’s true craft shines through in the crackling banter between her leads that radiates infectious chemistry while doubling as vehicles for authentic emotional revelations. It’s elevated beach reading at its finest—both buoyant escapism and profoundly cathartic substance.

While adeptly navigating the romantic comedy genre, “Beach Read” by Emily Henry proves far richer and more emotionally textured than one might expect by infusing profound themes around grief, creativity’s therapeutic powers, and the liberating embrace of duality within our very souls.

From the outset, January and Gus seem diametrically opposed in their creative processes and romantic worldviews—she a purveyor of happily-ever-after schmaltz, he an embittered skeptic of fairy-tale ideals. But as Henry peels back the layers obscuring their inner selves, we discover parallel emotional truths about how painful losses and unresolved traumas have warped and paralyzed their respective artistic voices.

The book celebrates the radical notion of finding catharsis and healing through bold genre-merging of their divergent narrative instincts. January and Gus don’t just explore each other’s polar stylistic approaches, but fuse their own singular emotional truths into something transcendent and revelatory about love’s complexities.

This reflects Henry’s broader insights into life’s eternal dualities—joy/sorrow, fantasy/reality, the saccharine/the philosophical—ultimately forming an interconnected human whole that resists reductive binaries. By the denouement, January and Gus have essentially become living embodiments of radical emotional integration – no longer compartmentalizing anguish and giddy effervescence into discrete artistic realms, but embracing the inseparable cosmic continuum of all lived experiences.

What People Are Saying:

“Beach Read” by Emily Henry has emerged as one of 2020’s biggest literary breakouts and a bonafide smash hit in the realm of contemporary romantic fiction . Critics have showered praise on Henry’s breezy yet substantive prose, irresistibly charming protagonists, and skillful blending of beach escapism tropes with more grounded emotional explorations.

Fans have connected deeply to the novel’s poignant threads about processing grief while finding joyous liberation through creative expression. Its cross-genre appeal has attracted readers from disparate romantic and literary camps, unified by the book’s infectious humor , tender spirit, and hard-hitting kernels of universal emotional truth.

My Personal Take:

Whenever I attempt to describe my love for Emily Henry’s delightfully insightful “Beach Read” to friends and fellow bookworms, I always find myself fumbling around with some awkward variation of “It’s so much more than just a fluffy romance!” Because while yes, this summery yarn about two polar opposite writers spending time together in a lakeside town absolutely delivers on the rom-com goods, it also radiated a surprising amount of gravity and authentic emotional wisdom that I just wasn’t prepared for.

And maybe that’s why Emily Henry’s work resonated so powerfully—it circumvented any misguided preconceptions I brought about the book being yet another disposable guilty pleasure, only to blindside me with disarmingly substantive insights about grief’s gripping traumas. As soon as the novel reveals its two endearing leads, January and Gus, are both reeling from profound personal losses, what initially presented as an airy trifle of a premise transforms into something far more profoundly cathartic.

Watching these two characters navigate their disparate approaches to love, art, and healing with both barbed humor and raw introspection proved utterly transfixing. One minute, I’d be audibly giggling at Henry’s mastery of the comedic slow-burn dynamic. The next, I’d feel myself holding back waves of unexpected emotion as January wrestled with memories of her mother or Gus opened up about his wounded relationship with his ailing father.

Their fraught creative dynamic doubles as a resonant allegory for reconciling the dichotomies residing in all of us—between cynicism and romanticism, lightness and darkness, intellectual and spiritual. By the end of their summertime crucible, January and Gus have transcended the rigid identities and genres initially constraining them not just in their writing, but their entire worldviews. Henry guides them into a sacred space of radical acceptance where all of life’s disparate ephemera are granted equal embrace.

For readers like myself drawn to stories about the human spirit finding inspiration through life’s biggest trials, “Beach Read” by Emily Henry hits every single sweet spot while deftly sidestepping cloying sentimentality. At turns laugh-out-loud hilarious and utterly gut-punching, it’s a sincerely uplifting tale about finding your creative spark by finally bringing all of your fragmented, messy self into wholehearted alignment. I can’t remember the last time I devoured a romance so purely joyous yet spiritually nourishing.

Wrapping It Up:

Emily Henry’s “Beach Read” is the kind of utterly absorbing, tone-perfect slice of romantic escapism that readers crave every sunny season. A sparkling enemies-to-lovers narrative brimming with winsome banter and slow-burn seaside passion, it delivers all the indulgent swoons we signed up for. But Henry’s effervescent romance proves far more than merely surface-level.

Between savvy insights into the creative psyche’s demons, resonant unpackings of grief and emotional renovation, and swirling thematic inquiries into evolution and embracing new perspectives on love, “Beach Read” solidifies itself as a transporting yet profoundly gratifying literary work uplifting spirit and soul alike. A total romantic sustenance.

More on this topic

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Sign me up for the newsletter!

Readers also enjoyed

Fear the flames by olivia rose darling, shelterwood by lisa wingate, what have you done by shari lapena, margo’s got money troubles by rufi thorpe, breaking the dark by lisa jewell, popular stories, one day, life will change by saranya umakanthan, most famous fictional detectives from literature, the complete list of the booker prize winner books, book marketing and promotion services.

We provide genuine and custom-tailored book marketing services and promotion strategies. Our services include book reviews and social media promotion across all possible platforms, which will help you in showcasing the books, sample chapters, author interviews, posters, banners, and other promotional materials. In addition to book reviews and author interviews, we also provide social media campaigning in the form of contests, events, quizzes, and giveaways, as well as sharing graphics and book covers. Our book marketing services are very efficient, and we provide them at the most competitive price.

The Book Marketing and Promotion Plan that we provide covers a variety of different services. You have the option of either choosing the whole plan or customizing it by selecting and combining one or more of the services that we provide. The following is a list of the services that we provide for the marketing and promotion of books.

Book Reviews

Book Reviews have direct impact on readers while they are choosing their next book to read. When they are purchasing book, most readers prefer the books with good reviews. We’ll review your book and post reviews on Amazon, Flipkart, Goodreads and on our Blogs and social-media channels.

Author Interviews

We’ll interview the author and post those questions and answers on blogs and social medias so that readers get to know about author and his book. This will make author famous along with his book among the reading community.

Social Media Promotion

We have more than 170K followers on our social media channels who are interested in books and reading. We’ll create and publish different posts about book and author on our social media platforms.

Social Media Set up

Social Media is a significant tool to reaching out your readers and make them aware of your work. We’ll help you to setup and manage various social media profiles and fan pages for your book.

We’ll provide you our social media marketing guide, using which you may take advantage of these social media platforms to create and engage your fan base.

Website Creation

One of the most effective and long-term strategies to increase your book sales is to create your own website. Author website is must have tool for authors today and it doesn’t just help you to promote book but also helps you to engage with your potential readers. Our full featured author website, with blog, social media integration and other cool features, is the best marketing tool you can have. You can list each of your titles and link them to buy from various online stores.

Google / Facebook / Youtube Adverts

We can help you in creating ad on Google, Facebook and Youtube to reach your target audience using specific keywords and categories relevant to your book.

With our help you can narrow down your ads to the exact target audience for your book.

For more details mail us at [email protected]

The Bookish Elf is your single, trusted, daily source for all the news, ideas and richness of literary life. The Bookish Elf is a site you can rely on for book reviews, author interviews, book recommendations, and all things books. Contact us: [email protected]

Quick Links

• Privacy Policy

Recent Posts

Beach Read Book Review – Everything you Need To Know

• Author : Emily Henry
• Originally Published : 18 May 2020
• Page Count : 400
• Genre : Romance , Fiction , Contemporary

Buckle up, fellow bookworms, because we’re about to embark on a literary journey that’s as refreshing as a cool sea breeze. As the sun-soaked days of summer linger, there’s no better time to dive into the sandy shores of “Beach Read” by Emily Henry. This novel has been making waves in the literary world, and we’re here to explore whether it’s the perfect companion for your beach bag or just another seashell in the sand.

So, grab your sunglasses and join me as we unpack the sun-kissed pages of this highly anticipated summer read. 

Whether you’re a die-hard book enthusiast or just looking for the next addition to your beachside library, this review has got you covered!

Table of Contents

Character Development

In the sun-soaked world Emily Henry crafts within “Beach Read,” characters are not just names on pages; they are companions on our literary journey. From the quirky neighbor who seems to know everyone’s business to the protagonist navigating the tumultuous waves of life, the characters in “Beach Read” are as diverse as seashells on the shore.

Emily Henry skillfully breathes life into each character, allowing readers to form genuine connections. Whether you find solace in the protagonist’s journey or share a chuckle with the eccentric side characters, the tapestry of personalities adds depth to the narrative. 

Without giving away spoilers, rest assured that each character’s evolution is as unpredictable as the tides, keeping readers eagerly flipping pages to discover the layers beneath the surface.

Writing Style and Narrative

Emily Henry weaves a literary tapestry in “Beach Read” that mirrors the ebb and flow of the ocean waves. The writing style is a delightful blend of wit, charm, and an effortless narrative that transports readers to the fictional coastal town where the story unfolds.

The author’s ability to capture the essence of sun-drenched landscapes and the complexities of human emotions is nothing short of magical. Each chapter is a brushstroke on the canvas, creating a vivid picture that lingers in the reader’s mind. 

The narrative dances between moments of laughter and introspection, mirroring the unpredictability of life’s tides. It’s not just a book; it’s an immersive experience that invites readers to get lost in the pages, savoring every word like a seaside breeze.

Themes and Messages

Beneath the sun-kissed surface of “Beach Read” lies a treasure trove of themes that resonate with the ephemerality of summer days and the depth of human connection.

Emily Henry masterfully intertwines themes of love, self-discovery, and the inherent unpredictability of life’s journey. As readers stroll through the pages, they’ll discover more than just a love story – the narrative serves as a mirror reflecting the complexities of relationships and the importance of embracing life’s twists and turns. 

The underlying messages are like hidden seashells waiting to be discovered, each one imparting a lesson or provoking thoughtful contemplation. “Beach Read” is more than a literary escape; it’s a heartfelt exploration of the human experience, leaving readers with a sense of warmth and contemplation long after the final chapter.

Pacing and Flow

Reading “Beach Read” is like riding the gentle waves of a captivating narrative. Emily Henry has orchestrated a symphony of pacing and flow that keeps readers effortlessly gliding from one chapter to the next. The story unfolds with a rhythmic cadence, allowing for moments of reflection amidst the lively narrative. 

The pacing is akin to the rise and fall of the tide – there are moments of exhilarating excitement and serene contemplation. Each scene seamlessly transitions, creating a reading experience that is as refreshing as a dip in the ocean on a hot summer day.

The flow of the story mirrors the natural progression of life, presenting a harmonious balance between plot progression and introspective pauses. Whether you’re racing through the pages or savoring the prose, the pacing in “Beach Read” is a testament to Emily Henry’s storytelling prowess.

While “Beach Read” basks in the glow of acclaim, even the sunniest shores have a few grains of criticism. Some readers might find that the pacing, which we celebrated earlier, occasionally dips into languid stretches, slowing the narrative momentum. There are moments when the story’s introspective pauses may feel more extended than anticipated, potentially testing the patience of readers seeking a brisker pace.

It’s important to note that these observations are more about personal preferences rather than inherent flaws. What one reader perceives as a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, another may interpret as a slow drift. Despite these nuances, “Beach Read” remains a captivating read, and these points merely highlight areas where personal tastes may differ.

In the literary landscape of summer reads, “Beach Read” by Emily Henry stands tall as a sun-drenched gem. The author’s enchanting writing style and skillful narrative transport readers to a coastal haven filled with love, self-discovery, and the unpredictable currents of life. While every book has its nuances, the captivating character dynamics and thematic depth make “Beach Read” a must-read for those seeking both escapism and introspection. 

As the final pages gently fold, one can’t help but appreciate the unique blend of wit, charm, and poignant moments that make this novel a standout in the genre. So, whether you’re a fan of romance, a seeker of life’s deeper meaning, or simply in need of a literary beach day, “Beach Read” beckons. Dive into its pages, feel the sand between your literary toes, and let the waves of emotion carry you away. Your next summer escape awaits between the covers of this unforgettable tale.

About the Author

Emily Henry, the creative force behind “Beach Read,” is a literary maestro known for crafting tales that resonate with the human experience. With a pen dipped in sunshine and emotion, Emily weaves narratives that transport readers to worlds where love, laughter, and self-discovery dance in harmony.

A wordsmith with a knack for capturing the nuances of life, she has earned a well-deserved place in the hearts of readers. Beyond the pages of “Beach Read,” their literary portfolio is a testament to a commitment to storytelling that transcends genres, leaving an indelible mark on the literary landscape.

“Your thoughts are the heartbeat of our literary community! Whether you found “Beach Read” a delightful escape or have your own insights to share, we invite you to dive into the comments section below. What resonated with you? Are there other summer reads that stole your heart? Your unique perspective adds depth to our bookish haven.

Don’t forget to share your thoughts on social media and let the world know about the literary treasures awaiting them here. Together, let’s turn the page on this discussion and create a ripple effect of literary enthusiasm. Your voice matters, so let it be heard, and let’s build a beachside book club where the tide of ideas never stops flowing! ” – Your Book Corner

Similar Posts

Confess colleen hoover summary & review, the power of now review, a court of silver flames summary & review – unveiling the enchantment, remarkably bright creatures summary & review.

They Both Die At The End Review

Punk 57 Summary and Review

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Review: Beach Read by Emily Henry

This post contains links to products that I may receive compensation from at no additional cost to you. View my Affiliate Disclosure page here .

Editorial note: I received a copy of Beach Read in exchange for a review. 

Beach Read by Emily Henry is an ideal story to start off your summer reading list!

Beach Read  was selected for April’s  Book of the Month. I’m so impressed with the quality of choices each month—I’m for sure a member for life. Click here to sign up and you can use the code MAY5  to get your first book for $9.99! Signing up for their service is well worth it and a big bonus, they’re still delivering books during this era. Another neat component is that BOTM will many times offer books prior to their publication dates so you can get the books early! 

I recently asked my Instagram followers which type of genres are their go-to in the summer. The responses definitely varied! Some said thrillers and others highlighted literary fiction. But the overwhelming response was women’s fiction. While I like to switch between genres each month, I definitely read much more women’s fiction in the summer. 

To me, women’s fiction is a well-crafted story that focuses on relationships, careers and figuring out what one really wants in life. Some in the genre are more serious while others fall in the romcom category. 

Beach Read features a bright cover and a fun title. But this one is actually more serious than not and has plenty of depth, which I think served the story quite well.

First the synopsis: 

Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast.

They’re polar opposites.

In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block.

Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.

A story about writers

January inherited the beach house from her recently deceased father and guess who’s her neighbor: Gus (Augustus) who is also her college rival. Yes, it’s a stretch that suddenly they’re neighbors but suspend the believability component on that and just roll with it. 

Being such an avid reader, I loved the concept of bringing together a literary fiction male writer with a woman who never ends her stories on a sad note. Gus, in the beginning, reminded me so much of many male writers that I know: believing literary fiction is much more important than other stories. January tries to emphasize that women’s stories are just as important as male stories and I felt myself nodding along with it! The banter between the two is very entertaining. 

So the concept is the two will switch genres and January will write a serious book with an unhappy ending while Gus will try his hand at a romance. I have to say that reading the stories they were working on wasn’t as interesting as I thought it would be. And there are long sections dedicated to research that I felt dragged. Truthfully, I don’t think I would read either of their stories. Maybe they should stay in their writing lane, ha! 

Complicated relationships 

Okay, so it’s not a spoiler to say that January and Gus fall for each other. But I think what makes this one stand apart is their journey is not easy and they both have plenty of baggage that they have to work on. It’s not simply an enemies-to-lovers romance but much more is going on there. Despite their feelings for each other, it’s not going to be smooth sailing. 

January also must come to terms with learning about her father’s secret that completely changes everything she ever knew about him. This is also a big reason of why she’s suffering from writer’s block as she’s suddenly confronted with the idea of happily-ever-after might be a myth. Or is it?

Overall, I think this is great for books clubs, which is why I selected it as a  May 2020 book club pick . I was part of a Zoom book club meeting in April with other bookstagrammers who had advanced reader’s copies. It was interesting to hear everyone’s opinions—some people seemed disappointed it wasn’t a light romance while others loved it. So I’m definitely curious to hear what you all think about this! I had a couple minor issues with it, but overall, I thought this was a very well-done and entertaining read about two different writers overcoming writer’s block together. 

Check out my book club questions here . 

You May Also Like

Julia's Bookshelves

Book reviews and book adventures, review: beach read by emily henry.

Beach Read by Emily Henry

• Buy the book here
• Page Count: 361
• Genre: Fiction, Romance
• Content Warnings: Death of a parent

Beach Read came to me, as it should, on the beach. I’d made the horrific mistake of only bringing one book for a day trip to the Jersey shore and finishing it midday. Luckily, my cousin had a copy of Beach Read with her, and it felt too enticing to pass up.

January Andrews is a romance writer who has always believed in love. But after the death of her father, everything changes when she is given the key to his secret beach house that he shared with another woman during his marriage. A grieving January heads to this “lovenest”for the summer with hopes of using the time to pen her next novel and clear out the house.

But when January discovers her sort-of college rival, Augustus Everett, lives next-door to the lovenest, her whole summer is turned on its head. Gus is a dark, no-romance, ‘serious’ writer who has earned much acclaim for his work. Gus and January are both stuck with major writers block, so they strike up a challenge: January must right a serious novel and Gus must right something with a happy ending. The two promise no real romance between them this summer, but with research field trips, book clubs, and messages passed through the windows of their neighboring beach houses, there is a chance that January and Gus will end the summer with more than just finished manuscripts.

Beach Read is for readers that love the occupational influence on the plot of The Love Hypothesis , the setting of The Summer I Turned Pretty , and the journey of escaping life to reconnect with oneself in a novel like Jewels of the Sun .

From the perspective of a woman in a creative writing program, I’ll say the very concept of this novelist romance was, initially, hard for me to grasp. Early on, January explains that Gus was a sort of conceited hot-shot in the creative writing department and even once (gasp) mocked her short story before reading it in workshop. After reading that detail, my instinctual reflex was to want January to stay as far away from this man as possible. I mean, mocking somebody’s short story in workshop is irreparable damage to the relationship. It is the ultimate betrayal. And the concept that somebody could do that to you and you’d ever end up in a relationship with them is sheer fantasy to me. But Beach Read is fiction, so, okay, I’ll suspend my disbelief and accept the Gus redemption arc. Maybe I’m too fresh on the subject, still being part of a writing program today.

This story unfolds in a private world away from writing programs and publishing competition. Gus and January have a few interactions with others –– the ladies of the local book club, interviewees for research, and a smattering of text messages with friends far away. But mostly it is just the two of them together, writing, and this is where a sweet intimacy comes into the story. January takes Gus on romcom excursions to the drive-in and other stereotypical sites to fuel his happy ending story. Gus brings January along on interviews with former members of a cult for research on a dark novel. They share their polar opposite perspectives on fiction with one another and (of course, because this is romance) begin to see eye-to-eye. I wouldn’t go as far as calling Beach Read enemies-to-lovers. This is more dislike-to-lovers, or ‘not your biggest fan’-to-lovers. If you like romances where people just grow together, this is a book for you. This medium-paced romance novel builds backstory and personal initiatives before getting to the romance. But once the romance enters the story, it encapsulates everything.

There were a few cheesy moments –– namely mentions of Gus’s eyes that make no logical sense (how do eyes do things besides look around? and an all-too-familiar description of a smoldering male lead with olive skin (why always olive skin?). But overall, I left Beach Read feeling happy and content. Don’t we want books to make us feel good sometimes? Do they all need to be radical?

That’s not a jab at the uniqueness of the story. Emily Henry does a great job of giving both January and Gus complex backstories and individual journeys that they are working through. The broke-novelist-in-seclusion provides opportunity for rich exploration of how life impacts art. As readers see January’s perspectives shift, we see her open up to new ideas creatively. Her complex personal life does not consume the story but fuels it. She has to make peace with what she has learned about her father if she is going to open herself up to a measure of joy and trust again. I’m adding Beach Read to my shelf of five-star-reads because it hit the sweet spot of serious and sweet for me in the romance genre. Emily Henry works to tie a messy plot up quite neatly with a bow on top, but what’s wrong with a happy ending? After all, those are the stories that January Andrews loves best.

Share this:

One thought on “ review: beach read by emily henry ”.

• Pingback: My 2022 Year in Books – Julia's Bookshelves

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Review: ‘Beach Read’ by Emily Henry

A romance writer who no longer believes in love and a literary writer stuck in a rut engage in a summer-long challenge that may just upend everything they believe about happily ever afters. Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They’re polar opposites. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block. Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no-one will fall in love. Really.

I’ve seen Emily Henry’s books around Instagram and Goodreads for the past few years, and I’ve meant to read them, so I finally took the plunge and read  Beach Read . Here’s the thing, I wanted to enjoy this book, especially since I borrowed the audiobook from my local library, but unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me. I would have DNF’d the book if it weren’t for the narrator. She made the book bearable, but not enough for me to enjoy it completely. 

The book is told solely in the FMC’s POV, January Andrews, so we don’t get to read the MMC’s thoughts and feelings. January is a best-selling romance author who used to believe in happily ever afters until she found out her father had been cheating on her mother while her mother was battling cancer. I could understand why she didn’t believe in HEAs anymore after finding out her father she respected and loved, was going behind her mother’s back the whole time, living a double life with another woman while he was with his wife and daughters playing a good father in front of them. January finds herself inheriting the house after her father passes away, which happens to be the same house he used to bring the other woman to while January’s mother was dealing with cancer. She doesn’t want anything to do with her father and reading the letter(s) that he left for her, but she does use the house to live for a while, so she can hopefully get over the writer’s block she’s going through and write the novels that her agent/publisher require her to write.

She finds out quickly that the house she’s living in temporarily has a neighbor experiencing writer’s block, too, and they used to know each other in college. Augustus Everett is the MMC in the book, but we never get his POV, but we know he’s a literary fiction author. We get to know him through the FMC, why they are enemies, why the MMC is grumpy, and what he’s going through, but we don’t know how he’s feeling toward January without his POV.

Here’s what drives me crazy lately regarding traditional publishing and how they promote books. They like to market the book to a subgenre, like with  Beach Read , saying it’s a Romantic Comedy/Contemporary Romance book, but it comes off as more of a Women’s Fiction novel. Yes, the book has a HEA/HFN at the end, which puts it in the Romance genre, but the story was more depressing and dramatic than happy and humorous. It also had barely any romance, such as the steam/spice factor. I wouldn’t even categorize the ending as a HEA, but a happy for now regarding the characters. (Yes, romance books have HFN, but this one felt off for me, and it’s all due to the FMC’s thinking about believing in HEA.)

I didn’t connect with the characters when it came to believe they were forming an actual romance together. They had the Enemies to Lovers thing going briefly at the beginning, and then they agreed to help each other write their books, but instead of the genres they were used to writing, they would switch it up. Augustus would write a romance story, and January would write the genre he normally writes, and they would go on this journey of researching together. They eventually got out of their writer’s block, but there was drama bound to happen between the two.

This book reminds me why I strayed from reading traditional publishing books a few years ago, and I started reading mainly independently published or small publishing houses. It also didn’t help when they started making the covers cartoonish, and I was used to the clinch (model) covers. The clinch book covers drew me into reading romance books as a teenager, and I knew the books were romance and would give me that HEA that I was craving.

I’m proud of myself for trying an Emily Henry book, but unfortunately, I won’t read another book by this author. I’m not the target audience for her books, so I’ll leave her books to readers who have enjoyed her books and prefer these types of romance stories.

This post contains affiliate links you can use to purchase the book. If you buy the book using that link, I will receive a small commission from the sale. It will help sponsor future giveaways but costs you nothing extra. You can read the full disclosure underneath the  Privacy Policy .

About Emily Henry

Emily Henry is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Book Lovers, People We Meet on Vacation, and Beach Read, as well as the forthcoming Happy Place. She lives and writes in Cincinnati and the part of Kentucky just beneath it.

Website | Instagram | Bookbub | Newsletter

• Recent Posts

• ARC Review: ‘Prime Time Romance’ by Kate Robb - September 3, 2024
• Review: ‘City of Secrets’ by P.J. Tracy - September 1, 2024
• August 2024 Monthly Wrap-Up + Giveaway - August 31, 2024

Share this post:

Kristi My Dao

A girl trying to write her way through life.

My Thoughts on Beach Read by Emily Henry

Before this book, I had fallen into a rabbit hole of nonfiction books and autobiographies. It’s not that I wasn’t happy there, because it was a path I had chosen to go down because that is what I write. I think that there is a different feeling I get when I read something meant to be inspirational, or something coming from someone who is successful and has overcome adversity.

I was missing the feeling of reading happy endings. Maybe it comes from the little kid in me who loved fairy tales, but I love a happily ever after story. I didn’t realize that what I was longing for is the feeling of reading a romantic comedy, until I picked up this book.

The driving force behind me reading Beach Read by Emily Henry came from the fact that my former Her Campus Editor Nicole posted it on her Bookstagram. She said it was one of her favorite books of all time, ever. Which sounded like a glowing review, so I picked it up, and I absolutely love it. So for today’s blog post, I thought I would go through the discussion questions in the back of the book. Keep reading to learn my thoughts and go through my experience of reading Beach Read by Emily Henry. Beware of spoilers.

What traditional romance tropes do you see used in Beach Read ? In what ways does the book deviate from or subvert romance tropes?

A major romantic trope of the novel is the rivals-to-lovers trope. Two characters who hate each other end up as lovers by the end, although it’s a little different in the book because the hatred is one sided. January hates Gus and believes him to be her rival, but it turns out all the things that he does that annoys her were his way of trying to get her attention.

There also loosely exists the trope of being stuck together, because the house that January’s dad leaves her turns out to be the house right next door to Gus’s. While it isn’t snowed in a cabin together, January has no funds to go anywhere else and so she is stuck living next to this man she is secretly competing with.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by nicole ☆ bookstagram (@nic.reads)

Whether you’re a writer or not, how do you see the concept of writer’s block in your own life? If you could give January a piece of advice for dealing with these phases of life, what would it be?

A good comparison of what writer’s block would be in the life of a person who isn’t a writer would be the equivalent of a mental funk. January can’t think of anything except for how she feels betrayed by her father, and it is creatively stifling to her because she writes about happy endings that she no longer believes in and can’t focus on anything else except for her betrayal.

My advice would be to do something different to shake things up. January fell into a trap of dwelling on the betrayal, of thinking of her dad, his funeral, and questioning all the memories she had of her father when she should’ve gone to try some new things to distract herself, or to therapy so that she could move past it with the help of a professional. With her bet with Gus, she ended up trying something new, and it seemed to have worked out for her by the end of the book.

If you could visit one setting from the book, with one of its characters, whom and where would you choose?

I would want to visit Pete’s coffee/book shop with January. This is because I love local, independent book shops, and I would love to get into discussions about happily ever afters and writing with her. It would be a cool thing to do, plus I would inadvertently meet Pete too.

January has a chip on her shoulder from negative reactions to her genre of choice. Have you ever felt “book-shamed” for liking a particular genre? Career-shamed?

So when Fifty Shades of Grey came out, I wanted to read it and understand what the hype was about, but at the time, I think I was a sophomore in high school. There was no way that I wanted to be caught dead with that book, so I think I went on YouTube and found the audio book version of all 3 Fifty Shades books. I think there’s a part of me that still feels a bit embarrassed to erotic things because of my weird relationship with sex, because when the books came out in Christian’s version recently, I just bought them on my phone so no one would know what I was reading.

I feel like everyone has been career-shamed in some aspect, because if you look at how academics are set up from the standardized tests to the competition of getting into college, everyone who has gotten an education (at least in America) has experienced some sort of shame during their academic career. And I feel like I don’t need to say much more than that, because for a while I tried denying my desire to become a writer, so that says a lot on its own.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kristi My (@kristimydarling)

Is your worldview more like Gus’s or January’s? Do you tend to be more optimistic or pessimistic? Has that changed with time and experience?

I think I’ve been optimistic a majority of my life when it comes to others, and more pessimistic when it came to the outlook on my own life. It was so easy for me to believe that everyone else deserved happiness and I didn’t, because there was a while where I was insecure in my own skin.

As I became more comfortable in my own skin and more confident in my skills and ability, I realized that I deserved a happily ever after as much as anyone else. I just had to believe in it and work for it.

Many of the issues between Gus and January begin with assumptions. How do you see January’s past experiences informing the assumptions that she makes? Do you see this happen in real life?

The little uncertified psychologist in me wants to say that everyone has implicit and explicit biases, whether they’re aware of it or not, and the fact that it happens in real life is what contributes to what makes these characters more realistic. I think that it was easy for Gus to trigger January to have negative assumptions about him because the first day they met, he commented on her genre of choice, unaware that was a sensitive topic to her.

It was sensitive because of her background of growing up female, her experience of trying to get into a male-dominated industry, of having the books that she writes be judged not by the writing, but the genre she chose to write in. Gus’s comment wasn’t the first domino to topple over, it was just the starting point of their rivalry from then on out.

Did January’s father deserve her forgiveness? Has she truly forgiven him?

At the end of the day, I do believe that family is family, and there is a level of respect that needs to exist. I do think that January’s father deserves her forgiveness, because it’s not as though he failed her as a father. He was always there to love and support her, so he did his job as her dad.

While it is fair to feel betrayal in the fact that he deceived her, I don’t think that much can be done at this point in time because he has passed away before this book even started. I can’t tell if she has truly forgiven him at this point, but it’s hard to argue by the time you read the end of the book that he didn’t work hard to be a devoted and supportive father to her.

Do you believe in the idea of a Happily Ever After? What would your HEA look like in real life?

I very much believe in the idea of a Happily Ever After. In my heart of hearts, I am a hopeless romantic, but I don’t think I believed I was a person who was supposed to have an HEA. Its why I’m so grateful with the relationship that I’m in now. I’m in a position where I’m the happiest I’ve ever been, I feel like I’m getting everything I ever wanted and then some, and my partner makes me feel so loved and supported in all the aspects of my life. It’s as though I’m living in my HEA.

Do you prefer to read books with a certain kind of ending? Prefer to know what kind of ending to expect?

My preferences typically are dictated by my mood. As a writer, I am supposed to be open to all kinds of types of writing and genres. Like I mentioned before, I had been reading a bunch of nonfiction and autobiographies before this. And my favorite books are very well-written fantasy novels. Rarely will I choose a book that would emotionally destroy me, but sometimes you never know until you get to the end of the book.

What is your perfect beach read?

It’s books like this one: easy to read, plenty of spaces to laugh and smile, and it has a happy ending.

If January and Gus got a sequel, what would it be about? What do you think comes next for them? What do you hope?

I personally don’t love the sequels of romantic comedy books. The reason is because books that fall in the romantic comedy genre end in a happily ever after, so for there to be a sequel would mean that something has caused a rift or problem in the previous happily ever after.

What comes next would be wedding planning, which would be it’s own challenge. I imagine a book tour for the books they both were inspired to write, which would be cute if they could do that together. I would hope that Gus would learn to overcome his personal issues with happily ever afters, and that January rebuilds her relationship with her mom.

What are you reading now? Do you have any romantic comedies you can recommend to me? Where is your favorite place to read? Tell me in the comments below, I can’t wait to read your answers!

As always, thank you for taking the time to read this blog today. If you enjoyed what you read, please take the time to let me know by liking this post, commenting down below, and sharing it with your friends. You can also make my day by signing up for the email list or subscribing to the blog, which will instantly notify you every time I put out a blog post like this one.

Love always,

Type your email…

A Day Out on the Water

My Review of Netflix’s The Crown

My 6 Favorite Video Games

Share this:.

Posted by: kristimyblog

1 reply to my thoughts on beach read by emily henry.

• Pingback: Unpacking My Backpack Essentials – Kristi My

Leave a comment Cancel reply

• Already have a WordPress.com account? Log in now.
• Subscribe Subscribed
• Copy shortlink
• Report this content
• View post in Reader
• Manage subscriptions
• Collapse this bar

Book Review

Beach read by emily henry.

by Catherine Heloise · May 18, 2020 at 4:00 am · View all 13 comments

by Emily Henry

May 19, 2020 · Berkley

More Info →

View Book Info Page

Genre: Contemporary Romance , Romance

Theme: Opposites Attract

Archetype: Writer/Author/Librarian

Content warnings: Both the hero and heroine have troubled pasts, including loss of parents, abuse, and infidelity. Also, the hero is REALLY into researching suicide cults. While this book is surprisingly sweet and light, and none of these things are described in detail, there is plenty of darkness in the backstory, so proceed accordingly.

I took one look at the blurb for Beach Read on NetGalley and one-clicked so hard that they could probably hear me do it all the way over in New Zealand.

Augustus Everett is an acclaimed author of literary fiction. January Andrews writes bestselling romance. When she pens a happily ever after, he kills off his entire cast. They’re polar opposites. In fact, the only thing they have in common is that for the next three months, they’re living in neighboring beach houses, broke, and bogged down with writer’s block. Until, one hazy evening, one thing leads to another and they strike a deal designed to force them out of their creative ruts: Augustus will spend the summer writing something happy, and January will pen the next Great American Novel. She’ll take him on field trips worthy of any rom-com montage, and he’ll take her to interview surviving members of a backwoods death cult (obviously). Everyone will finish a book and no one will fall in love. Really.

Opposites attract and a writer hero AND heroine? Oh, yes please. If I had any hesitation, it was that when you are pitting romance against literary fiction, even in jest, the genre that usually gets treated poorly is romance. But that didn’t happen here, and in fact, this book was both playful and thoughtful in its treatment of both genres and their purpose, and I found myself laughing out loud in delight at the banter. Having said that, this book isn’t all sweetness and light (Gus would never tolerate that) – finding yourself again after a great loss is a central theme of the story, and things get a bit angsty in the latter third or so of the book.

(I don’t want you to think it’s a downbeat story, however – in fact, it’s hands down the funniest book about grief that I have ever read, and the ending is pretty much perfect – definitely happy sigh and good book noise stuff.)

I want to acknowledge up front that this is a very, very smart book, and honestly, I wish it was coming out at a different time, because like many people, I’m having a lot of trouble focusing right now, and I’m not sure I’m capable of a proper critical review. So instead, let me tell you how I loved it. Because I really, really did.

January starts the book in a dark place. It’s nearly a year since her father died, which means that it is also nearly a year since she discovered that her parents’ perfect, fairy-tale romance was… if not a lie, certainly an elision of the truth, given that her father had a mistress and her mother knew about it. January has always believed in romance and happy endings because of her parents’ relationship; she has built her career as a romance novelist on her certainty of happy-ever-afters, and she is shattered by this discovery. When her own relationship breaks down under the strain of her grief and disillusionment, she finds herself single and homeless, unable to speak to her mother, and with no better option than to go and live in the beach house that father once shared with his mistress — while she tries to write a book that will contain the happy ever after she no longer believes in. As she says:

“At this point, it honestly might be easier for me to pack it in on the upbeat women’s fiction and hop aboard the Bleak Literary Fiction train. At least it would give me an excuse to describe boobs in some horrifying new way. Like bulbous succulents of flesh and sinew. I never get to say bulbous succulents of flesh in my books.”

When the writer who has rented the place next door (and who has just overheard her discussing foot-jobs while on the phone to her best friend) turns out to be her ‘stupidly, infuriatingly attractive’ lit-fic writing nemesis from her college days… well, that’s really the outside of enough. While we don’t ever get to see inside Gus’s head, he’s not precisely shy in expressing his opinions, and he makes it clear early on that he does not believe in happy endings:

“Life is pretty much a series of good and bad moments right up until the moment you die,” he said stiffly. “Which is arguably a bad one. Love doesn’t change that. I have a hard time suspending my disbelief.”

January assumes that Gus must obviously hold her writing and her worldview in contempt – after all, he once described her as a ‘fairy princess’ and commented of her writing “Let me guess. Everyone lives happily ever after. Again.” And yet… it’s not quite as simple as that. It becomes clear fairly early on that whatever he might think of January’s worldview, he has nothing but respect for her writing, and while she is antagonistic towards him, it’s pretty clear to everyone but January that he rather likes her. Here they are, challenging each other to write in each other’s genres.

“I’m in,” I said. His eyes bored into me, that evil smile climbing the corner of his top lip. “You sure? This could be truly humiliating.” An involuntary laugh sprang out of me. “Oh, I’m counting on it,” I said. “But I’ll make it a little easier on you. I’ll throw in a rom-com crash course.” “Fine,” Gus said. “Then I’ll take you through my research process. I’ll help you lean into your latent nihilism, and you’ll teach me how to sing like no one’s listening, dance like no one’s watching, and love like I’ve never been hurt before.”

While their early conversations are pretty adversarial, their banter as they begin to enjoy each other’s company is absolutely fantastic – these are two very clever people who have made an art of coming up with magnificent turns of phrase, and it shows. There is a fair bit of darkness in the background to the story — Gus comes by his nihilism honestly — but any time January and Gus are in the same room they just spark off each other and it is a total delight. You can tell that they are having so much fun when they argue – did I mention that I laughed a LOT reading this book? There are running jokes about murder spots (Gus does keep on taking January on long drives to seedy locations for their research trips) and comparisons of the worst reviews they’ve received, and a lot of this book feels like one of those late night conversations you have with old friends, where you talk about everything and anything and it never stops being interesting.

And once they get started on their writing challenge, they set up their desks at their windows facing each other, and communicate by placard:

Both windows were open. We could’ve talked but we would have had to scream. Instead, Gus smiled and picked up the highlighter and notebook beside him. He scribbled on it for a second, then held the notebook up so I could read it: LIFE IS MEANINGLESS, JANUARY. GAZE INTO THE ABYSS. I suppressed a laugh, then fished a Sharpie out of my backpack, dragged my own notebook toward me, and flipped to a blank page. In large, square letters, I wrote: THIS REMINDS ME OF THAT TAYLOR SWIFT VIDEO.

I love this so much. There is just something about a hero and heroine communicating by letter or post-it note or placard that always makes me happy. They do this on and off throughout the book and it is ADORABLE.

The research trips are also great fun. Gus takes January to one depressing interview with a cult survivor after another, and we see the importance in his work of listening, of bearing witness, of trying to understand why people do the things they do – or, as he puts it, ‘why people stay’. This turns out to have more than one set of meanings in Gus’s context. Meanwhile, January gleefully takes Gus to a line dancing class, to Meg Ryan night at the drive through cinema, and to a carnival, where she tries to convince him that they need a montage, the ‘promise-of-the-premise portion of the novel, when your readers are grinning ear to ear’, and they start making up stories about the people around them.

“The woman working the machine,” he said in my ear. “Maybe she’d make a mistake and watch someone get hurt because of it. This job was probably her last chance, the only place that would hire her after she made an even bigger mistake. In a factory, maybe. Or she broke the law to protect someone she cared about. Some kind of almost innocent mistake that could lead to less innocent ones.” I spun to face him. “Or maybe she’d get a chance to be a hero. This job was her last chance, but she loves it and is good at it. She gets to travel, and even if she mostly only sees parking lots, she gets to meet people. And she’s a people person. The mistake isn’t hers – the machinery malfunctions – but she makes a snap decision and saves a girl’s life…”

This is perhaps the most delicious part of the book – they continue back and forth like this for the whole evening, with January spinning unlikely friendships and hopeful endings, and Gus relentlessly turning everyone into cult members and ruining their lives. (I should note a trigger warning in this scene: one of the many tragedies Gus invents for a passer-by here is a miscarriage, and this may be upsetting for some readers. He also invents a lot of brainwashing and murder, but I’m guessing those are rather rarer as triggers.)

Beach Read straddles the line between women’s fiction and romantic comedy, in that while the romance is central, the heroine’s journey to find out the truth of her parents’ relationship (and her father’s relationship with the Other Woman) and her quest to restart her writing career are also central to the story. The story is also told entirely from January’s point of view, so it’s a story about her more than a story about them – while Gus has a fairly complicated emotional arc, he is secretive and self-protective by nature, so we only see it in glimpses and glimmers and it’s easy to understand why January spends so much time not being sure how he really feels about her. One thing that amused me later on in the book was January musing about how when she is writing or reading romance she gets so annoyed when the hero and heroine won’t communicate but she’s still not going to have That Conversation with Gus because it would be so mortifying….

Beach Read also has some opinions about sexism in how women’s writing is discussed, marketed and read.

“Southern Comfort sounds pretty sexy,” he said. “You have a thing for Southern boys? No teeth and overalls really rev your engine?” I rolled my eyes. “I’m led to believe you’ve never been to the South and possibly couldn’t locate ‘south’ on a compass. Besides, why does everyone try to make women’s writing semi-autobiographical? Do people generally assume your lonely, white, male—“ “Coldly horny,” Gus inserted. “­­—coldly horny protagonists are you?” He nodded thoughtfully, his dark eyes intent on me. “Good question. Do you assume I’m coldly horny?” “Definitely.”

But the book also takes the time to explore why Gus writes the things he does, too, and while January’s writerly heart will always be with romances and happy endings, you can see her fascination with exploring darker and more twisted storylines, and the ways in which she uses her writing to explore her own feelings about her family.

As romances go, this one is a very slow burn. There are so many moments of almost-but-not-quite, and these are almost hotter than the deed itself

It was crazy that I remembered that night in college so vividly that I knew he’d touched me just like this. That first touch when we met on the dance floor, featherlight and melting-point hot, careful, intentional. I realised I was holding my breath, and when I forced myself to breathe, the rise and fall of my chest was ridiculous, the stuff of Regency erotica. How was he doing this to me? Again? After the night we’d had tonight, this feeling, this hunger, in me shouldn’t have been possible. After the year I’d had, I hadn’t thought it was anymore. “I lied,” he whispered against my ear. “I have read your books.” His hands tightened on my waist and he spun me away from the car, opened the door, and got in, leaving me gasping at the sudden cold of the parking lot.

OMG HE HAS READ HER BOOKS!

AND HE LIKES THEM!!!!

I may have gotten a little bit invested here.

Perhaps the best thing about this book is that it doesn’t require either Gus or January to change. Gus isn’t wrong to be a cynic and January isn’t wrong to be a romantic – they are both fine as they are, even if they do both benefit from writing in each other’s genre. (Mind you, Gus’s happy ending made me laugh so hard my husband came to see what was wrong, but I’ll leave that for you to find out). January has already learned that being a full-time romantic optimist is unsustainable; but Gus’s nihilistic approach to life isn’t precisely filling him with joy either. They give each other balance, and, once they figure out how not to strangle themselves in their own insecurities (if I have a reservation about this book it is that I suspect there are too many neurotic people in this relationship), they are good for each other – they love and appreciate their differences. This is the opposite of an instalove plot – you can see that the foundation of this relationship is the kind of firm friendship where two people are absolutely comfortable with each other and care about each other and just enjoy being in each other’s company, and did I mention I love it?

Also, it contains one of the best vindications of the romance genre that I’ve read in quite some time.

“When you love someone…. you want to make this world look different for them. To give all the ugly stuff meaning, and amplify the good. That’s what you do. For your readers. For me. You make beautiful things, because you love the world, and maybe the world doesn’t always look how it does in your books, but… I think putting them out there, that changes the world a little bit. And the world can’t afford to lose that.”

In conclusion, I love this book. It does take you down into the darkness at times, but it leads you out again, and shows you the path so that you will be able to find it next time. It is sweet and sharp and clever and extremely funny and it left me with a happy sigh and a smile on my face.

This is a definite A, verging on Squee, from me.

PS – Hey, if Gus is writing literary fiction about cults, does that make them cult novels?

OK, I’ll see myself out now…

This book is available from:

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We also may use affiliate links in our posts, as well. Thanks!

Add Your Comment →

I had already preordered so this review gives me hope – and a strong suspicion it will move to the top of my TBR sooner than later! Thanks for this review!

(I also am fascinated by cults in a “can’t look away” way, so there’s that too)

I can’t wait to get this book from the library. I’m #42 so hoping to get it before summer ends.

I’m also on the library hold list for this book. Having read your review, Catherine, I’m even more eager to read it!

I can’t wait to read this book this week! I’ll circle back to read the review once I have but needless to say, the grade is such welcome news. So many have been raving about this one!

Absolutely loved this one! It’s a favorite of the year. I’d categorize it as women’s fiction (it’s definitely not a romcom despite the marketing) as I think it’s much more focused on January’s emotional journey and reconciling her understanding of her father than it is about the love story. Even though her romance with Gus is super satisfying!

Thank you so much for the great review! Yesterday I put the book on hold with my library, and it came up saying it wasn’t available yet, but accepted the hold. Somehow I managed to be the first in line-I got the book today!! That has never happened to me before, I feel like I won the lottery!

I hope you all love this as much as I did!

I loved everything about the couple, but the B plot with her dad drove me crazy. Not only does he cheat on his sick wife, but he manipulates and strings the other woman along – AND HE DOES IT FOR DECADES. But in the end it’s all okay because if he was a selfish monster at least he figures out a way to be an honest selfish monster AFTER HE WAS DEAD AND COULD NO LONGER FACE CONSEQUENCES!? This may be a blind spot from me, Friendly Neighborhood Asexual, but how hard is it to just NOT cheat? Gah.

Contemporary normally isn’t my cup of tea but I picked up “Beach Read” on audiobook after reading this review. I’m only an hour in but I’m already hooked. The narrator, Julia Whelan, also did the audiobook for “An Enchantment Of Ravens” and she has a way of pausing and emphasizing that works really well with the humour of these books. I sometimes have to stop myself from continuing bc I want to savour it on my way home from work. Highly recommend!

I read it, and LOVED it! I honored my membership of the Bad Decisions Book Club, and read the whole thing in one sitting. I think I finished it at 4:30 am, and loved every minute. It is definitely a slow burn kind of romance, and I wouldn’t even classify this book as a romance. It is all about family, and the feelings you have about them. Very enjoyable!

Thanks for this great review and for the content warnings! I might have been turned off of a 5 star read if I hadn’t had your reassurance that it would be okay. If this isn’t a romance, then maybe I need to read more women’s fiction, because the love story made me ache in wonderful schmoopy ways.

I love this book! I listened to it and finished it in two days. Would love any suggestions to other books similar to Beach Read.

This book (and your review) was a delight! Also, I just want to mention that the Taylor Swift video is definitely “You Belong With Me” because of the notes-through-windows thing!

https://giphy.com/gifs/xT0CyvhJ7MblaN4khy

Add Your Comment

Required fields are marked *

You may use these HTML tags and attributes: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

Your Name: *

Your Email: (will never be shared) *

Your Website:

Notify me of follow-up comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

↑ Back to Top

• WordPress.org
• Documentation
• Learn WordPress

Advertisement

Supported by

Beach Reads That Stand Up to Sand, Salt and SPF

Want to indulge in juicy, page-turning escapism? We’ve got some recommendations.

• Share full article

By Elisabeth Egan

There was a time not long ago when you could stroll down a beach and get ideas for your next book: Sunbathers held hardcovers in their hands; swimmers left paperbacks facedown on towels. The shoreline was an open-air bookstore window, a browsing bonanza that led straight to borrowing or buying your next read. Of course you’d have to pick up an ice cream cone on this expedition, and maybe a pound of fudge.

Books on screens have certain perks — you don’t need to put on shoes before buying one, for instance — but they also dial down literary voyeurism at the beach (or the pool or lake or wherever you sprawl on hot days).

Spare yourself the squinting this summer. Odds are, one of these novels will be glowing from a screen near you — or better yet, appearing in the flesh, its cover visible for all to see.

Take me to an island!

If you entered all the beach read ingredients into A.I., it might spit out a lesser version of Michael Callahan’s hearty chowder of a story, THE LOST LETTERS FROM MARTHA’S VINEYARD (Mariner, 304 pp., $30). The recipe includes a pair of sisters, a stash of mysterious correspondence, a charming seaside cottage, a generous dollop of old Hollywood glamour and a sexy fisherman who turns out to be secretly wealthy.

Like many of its seaworthy forebears, “The Lost Letters” chugs along on two timelines. On one, we have Kit, a junior television producer who stumbles into the scoop of a lifetime while cleaning out her grandmother’s house; on the other, there’s Mercy Welles, a rising starlet who dropped out of moviemaking as quickly as she arrived. It was easy enough to figure out how the women’s paths would converge, and I’ll admit a slight bias toward Mercy’s story. If you’re looking for a quick jaunt to Martha’s Vineyard, here’s your ticket.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .

• Discussions
• Reading Challenge
• Kindle Notes & Highlights
• Favorite genres
• Friends’ recommendations
• Account settings

Beach Read Books

Lists Tagged “Beach Read”

Quotes Tagged “Beach Read”

Videos Tagged “Beach Read”

Welcome back. Just a moment while we sign you in to your Goodreads account.

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink
• Personal Care
• Health & Wellness
• Amazon Sales
• Why Trust Us
• StackCommerce

trending now in Shopping

After testing countless formulas, these are the 15 best...

Hot sleeper? You need these very best cooling sheets we reviewed

We tried 28+ shampoos for 4 years, and these are the *ultimate...

Find your It-bag: Shop the 9 best purse brands of 2024 ASAP

Bath & body works fragrance dupes for all your favorite....

The 7 best books we read in August 2024, ranked and reviewed

Shop Wayfair's Labor Day sale for up to 55% off furniture,...

We tested frizzy hair products for smoother strands — These 17...

As the last official month of summer, you best believe we’re all about the beach reads. And, of course, other new and hot releases that fell into our laps this month.

From Reese’s Book Club picks to some from Rory Gilmore’s reading challenge (yes, it’s that time again), I’ve been on the lookout for unique titles and some of the most seasonal releases to rest and relax poolside.

As someone who has been avidly reading each day and producing monthly book roundups since January, this month’s selection was one of the most unique. Above all else, they are titles to consider — some of which are approved by the Amazon Books team.

RELATED : Best July books, ranked and reviewed

Ahead, find the best titles read this month, with review notes for each. While hardcover and paperback editions are nice, there’s nothing like listening with audible , so it’s worth signing up for a membership .

“Swiped” by L.M. Chilton

Goodreads rating : 3.56/5 stars

About the book : “Swiped” by L.M. Chilton is a gripping thriller about a woman’s search for her missing sister that unravels into a dark exploration of deception, obsession, and hidden agendas.

With a fun cover and an even more engaging plot, “Swiped” by L.M. Chilton is a novel that kept me on my toes. If you love books about relationship drama, you’ll love this one.

“This novel, described as if ‘Bridget Jones found herself in a Scream film’ is in fact more darkly hilarious than Bridget’s mishaps, which is to say it does for internet dating what Bridget did for husband-hunting–except with a lot more murder,” Vannessa Cronin, Amazon Books Editor, shared. “Half a dozen of them, to be exact. And a whole lot of red herrings, grimly funny disastrous date recaps, and a crashed ice cream truck.”

Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Kindle

“All the Summers in Between” by Brooke Lea Foster

Goodreads rating : 3.27/5 stars

About the book : “All the Summers in Between” by Brooke Lea Foster is a heartfelt novel about a woman confronting her past and rediscovering herself and her family while grappling with love, loss and the complexities of time.

Set in The Hamptons and filled with some classic-leaning flair, “All the Summers in Between” by Brooke Lea Foster is one of the best books of summer that makes you think.

“The Wedding People” by Alison Espach

Goodreads rating : 4.27/5 stars

About the book : “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach is a sharp, insightful novel that delves into the intricacies of relationships and personal growth through the lens of a couple navigating the highs and lows of wedding planning and its impact on their lives.

Trigger warning: mentions of suicide. Otherwise, “The Wedding People” by Alison Espach is a thoughtfully written and beautifully written novel unlike anything I’ve read before. Plus, its serene summertime setting is spectacular.

“This is one of the most candid, resonant, hilarious novels I’ve read about how chance encounters can lead to the most surprising outcomes,” Abby Abell, Amazon Books Editor, told the New York Post. “It takes a scalpel to the expectations we place on ourselves and celebrates how freeing it is to let them go.”

“A Novel Summer” by Jamie Brenner

Goodreads rating : 3.50/5 stars

About the book : “A Novel Summer” by Jamie Brenner is a captivating story about a woman who returns to her family’s beach house, where she confronts old secrets and discovers the power of love, family and self-reinvention.

Pleasant and fit for the lover of slow reads, the “A Novel Summer” by Jamie Brenner hails from one of my favorite authors and is sure to bring back all the nostalgia.

Buy on Hardcover | Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle

“The Fiancé Dilemma” by Elena Armas

Goodreads rating : 3.79/5 stars

About the book : “The Fiancé Dilemma” by Elena Armas is a charming romantic comedy about a woman who, facing a family crisis, recruits a charming but reluctant fake fiancé, leading to unexpected romance and self-discovery.

From the author who brought us the top-rated “ The Spanish Love Deception ,” this rom-com is both magical, witty and will keep you on your toes. It was one of my favorite reads this month, at that.

Elena Armas deftly and delightfully delivers on some of my favorite romance tropes–fake engagement, slow burn, he falls first,” Abell noted. “It is sweet and sexy and so much fun. A perfect romance to close out the summer.”

Buy on Paperback | Buy on Kindle

“Just One Taste” by Lizzy Dent

About the book : “Just One Taste” by Lizzy Dent is a delightful and witty novel about a woman who, after a string of personal and professional setbacks, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and culinary adventure while navigating complicated relationships and finding her own path.

If you’re a foodie and love vivid detail in writing, “Just One Taste” by Lizzy Dent is the book for you. You’ll fall in love with the characters, most of all.

“Deep Dish” by Mary Kay Andrews

Goodreads rating : 3.71/5 stars

About the book : “Deep Dish” by Mary Kay Andrews is a fun and engaging romantic comedy about a feisty chef and a charming food critic whose rivalry turns into unexpected romance as they navigate the competitive world of cooking shows and personal ambitions.

Fit for the foodie (again), “Deep Dish” by Mary Kay Andrews is a pleasurable read that’s filled with suspense, romance and a little bit of everything.

Other July Books to read, per the Amazon Books Editorial team

“there are rivers in the sky” by elif shafak.

Goodreads rating : 4.59/5 stars

About the book : “There Are Rivers in the Sky” by Elif Shafak is a reflective exploration of love, loss, and the intertwined fates of individuals set against a backdrop of cultural and spiritual landscapes.

“Spanning centuries and continents, this has everything I love in a big book — curious connections between characters, the hook of hope you harbor for each, and the satisfying (and extraordinary) way it all comes together,” Al Woodworth, Amazon Books Editor, said. “It’s perfect for fans of Anthony Doerr, Geraldine Brooks and Abraham Verghese.”

“By Any Other Name” by Jodi Piccoult

Goodreads rating : 4.17/5 stars

About the book : “By Any Other Name” by Jodi Piccoult” delves into the complexities of identity and self-acceptance through the story of a woman grappling with her cultural heritage and personal transformation.

“With intriguing, well-researched details, Picoult brings genuine depth — and love — to her characters and their narratives, playing with perception to make a point without overplaying her hand,” Seira Wilson, Amazon Books Editor, said. “This remarkable novel is an awakening, entertaining story to share.”

“House of Glass” by Sarah Pekkanen

Goodreads rating : 4.01/5 stars

About the book : “House of Glass” by Sarah Pekkanen is a gripping novel that delves into the secrets and lies within a seemingly perfect family as they unravel in the wake of a mysterious death.

“This is a tense, slow-burn of a thriller,” Cronin said. “If you enjoy the agony of rising suspense and second-guessing your own amateur sleuthing, this thriller delivers a chef’s kiss of shivers and secrets.”

“The Boys of Riverside: A Deaf Football Team and a Quest for Glory ” by Thomas Fuller

About the book : “The Boys of Riverside” by Thomas Fuller is a poignant exploration of the lives of young men in a small town, focusing on their struggles and aspirations as they navigate personal and societal challenges.

“When I read The Boys of Riverside, I was taken back in time to when I first saw ‘Remember the Titans’ at the cinema,” Ben Grange, Amazon Books Editor, said. “This is one of the best books I’ve read all year; ultimately, it’s an inspiring story that will speak to sports fans, deaf communities, allies and more.”

“We Burn Daylight” by Bret Anthony Johnston

Goodreads rating : 3.98/5 stars

“This novel is perfect for fans of Emma Cline’s ‘ The Girls ‘ and Chris Whitaker’s ‘ We Begin at the End ‘ and ‘ All the Colors of the Dark ,'” Cronin recommended. “‘We Burn Daylight’ is a page-turner that will make your stomach dip and roll with anticipation and fear for what happens to two young kids in 1993, who are inextricably linked to a cult leader who stockpiles weapons. This is a lightning bolt of a read that, once you finish, you’ll want to begin again to understand just how seamlessly Johnston links all the pieces together.” 

Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post

For over 200 years, the New York Post has been America’s go-to source for bold news, engaging stories, in-depth reporting, and now, insightful shopping guidance . We’re not just thorough reporters – we sift through mountains of information, test and compare products , and consult experts on any topics we aren’t already schooled specialists in to deliver useful, realistic product recommendations based on our extensive and hands-on analysis. Here at The Post, we’re known for being brutally honest – we clearly label partnership content, and whether we receive anything from affiliate links, so you always know where we stand. We routinely update content to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit) and ensure our links work. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

Hunting for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping with Post Wanted .

• Action/Adventure
• Children's/Family
• Documentary/Reality
• Amazon Prime Video

More From Decider

'The Bachelorette' Bombshell: Jenn Tran Reveals Devin Strader Called Off...

Fall TV Preview 2024: 'Yellowstone,' 'Outlander,' and So Much More

11 Best New Movies on Netflix: September 2024's Freshest Films to Watch

Joey Chestnut Addresses Longstanding Takeru Kobayashi Rivalry Ahead Of...

New Shows & Movies To Watch This Weekend: 'The Deliverance' on Netflix...

'Unfinished Beef': Netflix Reveals Hosts For Labor Day Hot Dog Showdown...

11 Best New Shows on Netflix: September 2024's Top Upcoming Series to Watch

Andy Cohen Asks Brandi Glanville To Watch Him And Kate Chastain Have Sex...

Share this:.

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to copy URL

Stream It Or Skip It: ‘English Teacher’ On FX, A Comedy About A Principled High School Teacher Who Has To Deal With Parents And Bureaucracy

Where to stream:.

• English Teacher

Netflix Drops Second ‘Heartstopper’ Season 3 Teaser Two Months’ Shy of Premiere

Shop star wars-inspired planners from erin condren for back to school, the 18 best back to school movies to watch in 2024, stream it or skip it: ‘armageddon time’ on prime video, in which director james gray wrestles with his own autobiographical reminiscence.

We really, really appreciate it when a comedy comes out of the gates with so much confidence in its characters that it lets the humor stem from their attitudes and reactions. It just makes a show look like it’s not straining to generate a laugh. A new series from comedian Brian Jordan Alvarez does exactly that, and it gets off to a promising start.

ENGLISH TEACHER : STREAM IT OR SKIP IT?

Opening Shot: The song “Maniac” plays, and Evan Marquez (Brian Jordan Alvarez) wakes up to start his day.

The Gist: Evan is an English teacher at Morrison-Hensley High School in Austin; he’s certainly a principled guy who will defend those principals to parents and the administration, even if it gets him in hot water.

His buddies at school are optimistic history teacher Gwen Sanders (Stephanie Koenig) and PE teacher Markie Hillridge (Sean Patton), whose views are definitely right of center but he seems to be perceptive about the people around him. As they eat lunch, with Markie decrying everyone using TikTok, guidance counselor Rick (Carmen Christopher) comes to the table to convince the trio to invest in a stock he likely has way too much money in. Evan also takes note of Harry (Langston Kerman), the new physics teacher who is subbing for someone who took a leave to go on The Amazing Race.

The principal, Grant Moretti (Enrico Colantoni), calls Evan into his office to tell him he’s under investigation; a parent of a now-graduated student has put in a complaint that Evan kissed his then-boyfriend Malcolm (Jordan Firstman) in front of her son, corrupting him. Evan thinks the complaint is ridiculous, especially coming from the particular mother in question, who seems to have a beef with lots of things the school did. The ever-stressed Grant just wants Evan to write a letter of explanation and apology and get this off his pile of things to deal with.

Evan is chapped, of course, and tries to figure out what to say in the letter. He suspects that the kid is gay and the mom is pissed that he “turned him” with that kiss. A conversation with Markie, of all people, is enlightening on the subject; Markie says that the kid “saw you being you” and wanted to be more like that.

He meets with the extracurricular book club he leads and all of the students know that he’s being investigated. They argue just how gay and “Hispanic” Evan is, then one of the students says, “If they’re gonna get you, they’re gonna get you.” Of course, he was “gotten” for selling Molly at prom, which he says he did as “a bit.”

Meanwhile, Markie convinces Evan to teach his class about what “non-binary” means, even though Evan says, “I’m binary!”

What Shows Will It Remind You Of? The most obvious comparison is Abbott Elementary , though English Teacher isn’t in mockumentary format and has a lot more swearing.

Our Take: Alvarez created English Teacher , and the showrunner is Jonathan Krisel ( Baskets ). The show has a bit more of a manic energy to it than Abbott , with dialogue that often sounds tossed-off and damn near improvised. But the funny lines land more often than not, mainly because Alvarez and Krisel do a good job of setting up the characters and letting their personalities dictate the comedy, rather than just rely on gags.

A good case in point is that initial cafeteria scene. In that short scene, we see that Evan stands on his principles, Gwen sees the good in people, Markie has some interesting conspiracy theories, and Grant regrets ever taking the principal’s job. It’s not a complicated scene, but it’s more than enough to show where everyone stands.

In the second episode, Evan brings in an old college friend (Trixie Mattel) to teach the football team how to do drag properly for the annual Powderpuff event, a response to the school’s LGBTQIA students protesting the event. In the meantime, Gwen and Markie teach the cheerleaders about self-defense when they should be teaching them how to play football.

One of the other aspects we like about the show is that Evan is going to have his book club to bounce things off of in every episode, and they exhibit some interesting personality quirks of their own. We look forward to getting to know these characters, even if it’s a tiny bit at a time.

It does feel like each episode will have that A- and B- story that involves Evan, Gwen and Markie acting in some combination then coming together in the end. Whether that will always work is another matter; in the second episode, the self-defense story has funny moments but doesn’t come together as well as the drag story. But structuring the episodes like this also shows that Alvarez and Krisel have confidence that the supporting characters can carry their own stories, and to see that confidence so early on is a mark of a good workplace comedy.

Sex and Skin: None, except that Evan starts to remember the kissing incident and he thinks Malcolm did more than give him a peck on the lips. Parting Shot: After being told by Grant that he can no longer date faculty members, Evan officially meets Harry when the new teacher comes by asking for a whiteboard eraser. When Harry compliments the plain white shirt Evan is wearing, Evan starts realizes Grant’s edict is going to be tough to follow.

Sleeper Star: Sean Patton’s Markie is being positioned as the most broadly-sketched character of the group, and Patton takes that and runs with it. But he also takes Markie’s surprisingly insightful moments and makes them feel organic to his character, something that’s tough for a lot of people to pull off.

Most Pilot-y Line: When Evan mentions Markie to Grant, the principal goes, “Who?”, and Evan has to remind the principal that Markie is the gym teacher. Listen, we get that Grant’s being pulled in a million directions, but you’d think he’d know who the gym teacher and football coach is.

Our Call: STREAM IT. English Teacher doesn’t look like it’s trying too hard to be really funny, which is about as big a compliment as we can give a comedy. But it has also established some well-drawn characters right at the start, which is why its comedy feels so organic.

Joel Keller ( @joelkeller ) writes about food, entertainment, parenting and tech, but he doesn’t kid himself: he’s a TV junkie. His writing has appeared in the New York Times, Slate, Salon, RollingStone.com , VanityFair.com , Fast Company and elsewhere.

• FX (Via Cable/Satellite Provider)
• Stream It Or Skip It

Is 'Power Book II: Ghost' On Starz Tonight? Season 4, Episode 6 Premiere Date

Does Jenn Tran End Up With Anyone On 'The Bachelorette'?

'The Deliverance' True Story: What to Know About Latoya Ammons and the 200 Demons House

Gary Coleman's Friends "Appalled" By Ex-Wife's 911 Call For His Fatal Fall in 'Gary' Doc: "She Didn't Help Him"

R.I.P. Julian Ortega: 'Elite' Actor Dead At 41 After Suddenly Collapsing On The Beach 

'Today's Jenna Bush Hager "Broke Out In Tears" When Dad George W. Bush Said He Would Run For President: "You're Gonna Lose"

• Kindle Store
• Kindle eBooks
• Literature & Fiction

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Audiobook Price: $22.04 $22.04

Save: $9.05 $9.05 (41%)

Buy for others

Buying and sending ebooks to others.

• Select quantity
• Buy and send eBooks
• Recipients can read on any device

These ebooks can only be redeemed by recipients in the US. Redemption links and eBooks cannot be resold.

Sorry, there was a problem.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Follow the author

For the Love of Summer: A Summer Beach Read Kindle Edition

• One Big Happy Family
• The Summer Book Club
• The Happiness Plan
• Home Sweet Christmas
• The Boardwalk Bookshop
• Print length 414 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publisher MIRA
• Publication date June 4, 2024
• File size 1290 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

Customers who bought this item also bought

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

About the author, product details.

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CH3KMG65
• Publisher ‏ : ‎ MIRA (June 4, 2024)
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 4, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 1290 KB
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 414 pages
• #212 in Women's Divorce Fiction
• #321 in Mothers & Children Fiction
• #695 in Contemporary Women's Fiction

About the author

Susan mallery.

Susan Mallery is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of books about the relationships that define women's lives—romance, friendship, family. With compassion and humor, Susan keenly observes how people think and feel, in stories that take readers on an emotional journey. Sometimes heartbreaking, often funny, and always uplifting, Susan's books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list, thanks to her ever growing legions of fans.

Critics, too, have heaped praise on "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!"

Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.

Susan lives in Seattle with her husband, a ragdoll cat, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Animals play a big role in her books, as well, as she believes they're an integral component to a happy life. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.

Customer reviews

• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 5 star 78% 16% 4% 1% 1% 78%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 4 star 78% 16% 4% 1% 1% 16%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 3 star 78% 16% 4% 1% 1% 4%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 2 star 78% 16% 4% 1% 1% 1%
• 5 star 4 star 3 star 2 star 1 star 1 star 78% 16% 4% 1% 1% 1%

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers find the storyline compelling, full of romance, conflict, humor, tears, and love. They also describe the characters as compelling, strong, and well-written. Readers also mention the book as a story of strong women.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers find the storyline compelling, full of romance, conflict, humor, tears, and love. They also say the book is about relationships, heart, and how people completely.

"...An intriguing tale that showed what friendship, family, and unexpected support could look like...." Read more

"With an incredible story line I could not put this book down. This book really dived into its characters and brought them to life...." Read more

"...This book is about relationships, heart , and how people completely at odds with each other when they begin, can become the close knit family that..." Read more

"...Summer is daughter's name, not a season. Great romance , well-written. Definitely a chick book." Read more

Customers find the characters compelling.

"...As I began For the Love of Summer, I was immediately captivated by the characters , from Allison, Summer, and Summer’s mother Erica, to her..." Read more

"...This book really dived into its characters and brought them to life. I cried and laughed and cheered them on. 10 out of 10 from me!" Read more

"The best I have read this summer. Loved the characters and the emotions involved . Made me smile and care about the characters." Read more

"Just finished it last week & loved it! Love the character of Erica . And also loved the relationship that developed between her & Allison. Great book." Read more

Customers find the book well-written and a great romance. They also say it's a chick book.

"...Summer is daughter's name, not a season. Great romance, well-written . Definitely a chick book." Read more

"Susan is an excellent author . Her books are full of romance that makes you leave wanting more. I’m always anxious for her new book to come out." Read more

"...I always laugh,made to think and react to the storyline. Well done ." Read more

"...I would recommend this book!! Susan Mallery is an amazing writer ! I gave it 5 stars because it's worth it!!" Read more

Customers find the female protagonist compelling. They also say the story is about strong women.

"...I loved how strong women made each other stronger and didn’t drag each other down...." Read more

"This was an amazing book. Erica was a strong, hardworking woman that became a success despite many hardships...." Read more

"...I loved the main character, Erica, who was a strong woman . Even though she had money, she had a heart of gold." Read more

"...Characters were compelling. A story of strong women and how they found themselves and each other. Susan outdid herself. A several tissue book." Read more

Customers find the book full of conflict, humor, and snarkiness.

"...insightful glances into the lives of several main characters, written with humor , warmth, and wisdom." Read more

"Full of conflict, humor , tears and love; another example of hard work, an open mind and love beating the odds. A fun and heartwarming read!" Read more

"...I loved the premise, the snarkiness , the love, the characters. All the emotions you want in a book!@!..." Read more

"A Wonderful, Touching, Sometimes Funny Story ..." Read more

Customers find the book addictive and can't put it down.

"... Every page was exciting ." Read more

"Loved it from the first page to the last. Excellent book. It was addicting . I couldn't put it down. Very good book" Read more

"Easy read for the beach - kept my attention and was very interesting. I would recommend this book and the author" Read more

Reviews with images

My favorite book by Susan Mallery to date

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

Report an issue

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Registry & Gift List

• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices