Patch Picks For Beach Read Best Bets

Packing a tote for the beach? You’ll need sunscreen, a big towel and a bottle of water, for sure. Also, consider throwing in one of these recommended beach reads from a local librarian.

Good People by Marcus Sakey 
"The action is relentless, the suspense high and the references to familiar Chicago sights is just another plus in a classic tale of good versus evil," said readers advisor Karen Barron. In this mystery, a cash-strapped couple finds a large amount of money in a tenant's apartment after his death. "What would you do if you stumbled on the answer to your dreams?  After reading this thriller, you might rethink your decision."

Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn
Glenview Public Library readers advisor Monique Flasch offers up a bit of romance. Fans of Quinn's work will recognize the Smythe-Smith family as secondary characters in other novels who finally take center stage. After a series of unfortunate events, childhood pals find themselves back together and reevaluating their friendship. Flasch said: "Witty dialogue, humor and great characters make this the perfect summer beach read for romance fans."

Secret Daughter by Shilpi Somaya Gowda
The chapters of Gowda's debut novel alternate between the lives of a poor Indian mother forced to give up her baby and the parallel story of the American couple who adopts the little girl. The daughter, Asha, faces challenges as she grows up and grasps for pieces of her past.  Eventually, Asha must reconcile how she fits in to two very different cultures.  librarian Lori Siegel said this book is a worthy addition to the growing Indian fiction genre.

The Snowman by Jo Nesbø
Maybe cool thoughts will help your survive these hot summer days. Siegel recommended this thriller set in frigid Oslo in winter, where Detective Harry Hole investigates the disappearance of a woman whose scarf is found on a mysteriously built snowman. The case is complicated by subsequent abductions and a menacing letter. Twists, turns and big suspense make this a fantastic read this summer, or anytime, Siegel said.

South of Broad by Pat Conroy
This recommendation from Glenview outreach librarian Janet McIntyre follows a South Carolina man from adolescence to adulthood as a prominent Charleston, SC, columnist. The book's rich cast of characters become this man’s lifelong friends. "Conroy's lush and lyrical descriptions of South Carolina are so exact you can feel the warm sun and smell the sea air.  Don’t forget the sweet tea and box of tissues," McIntyre said.

Summer Rental by Mary Kay Andrews
Siegel called this tale of lifelong best friends "an engrossing story about friendship, and self discovery perfect for the beach or vacation." Three women in their mid-thirties, struggling with life in general and love in particular, take a month in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. As the summer goes on, the women begin to open up to each other about their personal struggles and issues.