As we embrace the joys of this season, many of us seek relaxation in the serene mountains or by the calming beaches. Amidst this carefree ambience, what could be a better companion than a captivating book? What defines a perfect read for your leisure time at a beach? It's the escapism it offers, be it through a sizzling romance or a gripping true-crime thriller. Worry not, for we have curated a selection of 10 engaging reads that will surely become prized additions to your tote bag. Mrs Nash’s Ashes by Sarah Adler While lounging on your beach towel, Mrs Nash's Ashes will let you take a road trip through its pages. In a cross-country drive to transport the protagonist's elderly BFF's ashes, Adler delivers both a heartwarming and poignant portrayal of dealing with love and loss. Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows by Balli Kaur Jaswal Apart from being a gripping narrative, this book delves into themes of identity, patriarchy, and cultural mores. Motherthing by Ainslie Hogarth Documenting the relationship between the protagonist and her mother-in-law, who's a ghost (yes, you read that right), you'll breeze through this riot of a book. Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe Considered a masterpiece that has inspired generations of writers, Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe portrays a pre-colonial Nigeria and the subsequent invasion by Europeans. Beach Read by Emily Henry How could a list of beach reads be complete without mentioning Emily Henry’s chart-topping Beach Read? A true rom-com complete with 'enemies to lovers' trope, this book will envelop you in its warm embrace. Confidence by Rafael Frumkin If you're a fan of satire, Rafael Frumkin’s Confidence will occupy a prized position in your beach bag. Buzzing with themes of late-stage capitalism, this dark comedy will leave you stumped with its biting wit. Around India in 80 trains by Monisha Rajesh If you're a train-travel aficionado, Around India in 80 trains by Monisha Rajesh will become your new favourite this season. Discover our country's famous and unknown spots through this Jules Verne-inspired travelogue. Nine Pints by Rose George Also seen in Bill Gates' summer reading list, Nine Pints by Rose George can be aptly described as a biography of blood, from how it is also a source of life yet an indicator of death. For those of you looking for a treasure trove of knowledge this season, this novel is the perfect read. Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum If you're sick of looking at people lounging around in Europe in your Instagram stories while you're stuck back home waiting for your vacation to begin, Bad Summer People by Emma Rosenblum will delight you to no end. A murder mystery based smack in the middle of the vacation spots haunted by the rich and famous, the book will leave you mesmerised. The Water Outlaws by SL Huang The Water Outlaws by SL Huang is the perfect read for those of you looking for an escapist fantasy. This book will have you dreaming of a world of legions far from the beach you're on. 📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don't miss out on the latest updates!