The Best Beach Reads for Women Over 50
There are few pleasures in life that can compare to the sheer delight of immersing oneself in the pages of a truly captivating book. A great read can transport us to different eras, cultures, and perspectives, broadening our understanding of the world and awakening our empathy. The power of a well-written book lies in its ability to evoke a range of emotions, from laughter to tears, and to stir the depths of our souls. It challenges our intellect, ignites our imagination, and nourishes our spirit. Whether you love the feeling of pages under your fingertips or you prefer to dive into a book using a device like a Kindle, there’s sure to be a story for you on this list of the best beach reads for women over 50.
A few of these recommendations came from our AWSL community, others are favorites of my own, and some are best-sellers that I can’t wait to read myself. If you have any favorite books, leave them in the comments for others to find. I hit the local bookstore yesterday to pick up a few myself.
The Best Beach Reads for Women Over 50
“The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman
“The Thursday Murder Club” by Richard Osman is a delightful and engaging mystery novel that follows a group of sharp-witted retirees who form a club to solve cold cases. Osman weaves together humor, suspense, and intricate plot twists, creating a captivating read that keeps readers guessing until the very end. With its endearing characters and clever storytelling, “The Thursday Murder Club” is a must-read for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted whodunit.
“Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano
From New York Times bestselling author Ann Napolitano comes a rich, life-affirming, and heartbreaking novel about sisterhood, family, love, and growing up. Spanning decades and generations, “Hello Beautiful” captures what it means to be a family — the joy and tragedy, the deep trust and devastating betrayals. Split apart by stubbornness and heartbreak, the Padavano family scatters across the country.
“Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus
This book was highly recommended by several different AWSL readers, so I picked up a copy yesterday. “Lessons in Chemistry” by Bonnie Garmus is a compelling and thought-provoking novel that delves into the world of science and the challenges faced by women in the 1960s. With its rich historical backdrop and complex characters, “Lessons in Chemistry” is a captivating exploration of resilience, determination, and the power of pursuing one’s passions.
“Rules of Civility” by Amor Towles
I loved this one so much that I’ve read it multiple times. This mesmerizing novel is set in 1930s New York. It follows the journey of Katey Kontent as she navigates the intricacies of high society.
“Wish You Were Here” by Jodi Picoult
Picoult’s masterful storytelling and compelling characters make this a read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you questioning the lengths we go to protect our loved ones.
“The Last Thing He Told Me” by Laura Dave
This novel is a riveting and suspenseful domestic thriller that unravels the mystery surrounding a husband’s disappearance and a wife’s determination to uncover the truth. Dave skillfully crafts a gripping narrative filled with twists and turns, that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the final page.
“The Swedish Art of Aging Exuberantly
by Margareta Magnusson
I read and loved another book by this author, so I was thrilled to see this recommendation from AWSL reader, Bea. This book is an inspiring and insightful guide that encourages readers to embrace aging with vitality, joy, and a positive mindset. This read is full of practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a refreshing perspective on aging, reminding us that life can be rich, fulfilling, and meaningful at any age.
“Beach Read” by Emily Henry
This book is cleverly named. What a simple, but eye catching title… especially for a woman shopping for her next beach read! The storyline follows two rival authors as they navigate a summer of unexpected friendship, personal growth, and, of course, love. Henry’s witty dialogue, well-developed characters, and touching exploration of second chances make this book a perfect beach read that will warm your heart and leave you with a smile.
“The Whispers by Ashley Audrain
I read just enough of this book…a few paragraphs, to realize I need to be in the right headspace to read the rest of it. When books are described as an electrifying…razor-sharp page-turner that delivers a sucker-punch ending you’ll have to read twice to believe, I know it’s not one I want to read in the dark. Do you love books that raise the hair on the back of your neck?
“How to Kill Men and Get Away With It” by Katy Brent
I spotted this book with the catchy title in the store window and may have to go back to check it out. Have any of you read it?
Other Book Recommendations for Women Over 50:
- As I turn more of my attention to my health and well-being, I’m thoroughly enjoying this lovely new book.
- I recently read the fascinating book, “The Personal Librarian.”
- I loved listening to “Outlive: The Science of Art and Longevity” on Audible.
- My brother wrote an awesome adult thriller if you are a fan of books with lots of action.
I’m new to your blog – thanks for the fashion advice and especially happy to see book recs! Some recent reads that I highly recommend: The Secret Book of Flora Lea (and her earlier one: Once Upon A Wardrobe), The Lonely Hearts Book Club, Two Wars and A Wedding, Someone Else’s Shoes, The Sweet Spot, Ms. Demeanor…..I could go on but will save for next time 😀
Welcome, Phyllis! I’m so glad you’ve joined us.
I was recently in Victoria, BC, and of course visited my favorite bookstore, Munro’s Books. I recently finished “Good Night, Irene” by Luis Alberto Urrea about 2 women who were Red Cross “Donut Dollies” in WW2. Based on the life of his mother and her Donut Dolly partner, but entirely fiction.
I’m excited to read the book by Amor Towles; I loved “A Gentleman From Moscow”
I LOVE Munro books! It’s a fabulous book store.
Oh gosh, so many recommendations!! Love it!
I truly enjoyed “Rules of Civility” which I found here after you recommended it in one of your posts. “Lessons in Chemistry” in another great read. One of my very favorites in the past couple of years was “Think of Me” by Frances Liardet. Not necessarily a beach read, but I could not put it down. I highly recommend it — very moving.
Thanks, Beth. I love getting all these great book suggestions.
I love to get book recommendations! Hello, Beautiful is one of my recent favorites. Lessons in Chemistry was ok but not as good as I expected. I also really liked The Last Thing He Told Me and I liked the Apple TV series with Jennifer Garner, based on the book. I am currently reading The Golden Doves by Martha Hall Kelly. I’m enjoying it, so far. I bought Homecoming to read next. I have liked all of Kate Morton’s books.
Thanks for all of these suggested titles.
If any of you like historical fiction I just finished “The Things We Cannot Say” by Kelly Rimmer which was excellent in my opinion. I couldn’t stop crying near the end. Kristen Hannah is also a favorite author of mine in this category.
That’s a great recommendation, Susan. Thank you.
I loved Hello Beautiful and Lessons in Chemistry, along with some of the others you list. I’m about to read Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt that everyone seems to be loving right now. I also wouldn’t consider Demon Copperhead a beach read but it is excellent. I’m hoping to pick up Rules of Civility but my stack of books to read is getting a little big so I’m trying to read from there first.
I hear you but I think you’ll really enjoy it.
“The last thing he told me” by Laura Dave became a joke at my expense during a recent vacation. I was reading everytime there was a moment. One of my travelling companions said “no book can be that good”. She read it when she got home and complained after pulling an almost all nighter to finish it! I have just started “ the last husband” by the same author.
I will have to read that!!
I am currently reading Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See. The setting is 15th century China and it delves into friendships forged out of mutual hardships. It is a riveting read and definitely not for the faint of heart.
It sounds fabulous!
Here’s a book I recommend: The book Woman of
Troublesome Creek-: Kim Michele Richardson
You’ll learn abt thev’Pack Horse Library project (WPA) & the blue people of KY who, due to inbreeding had a genetic abnormality that gave theur skin a bluish tinge.
Wow, that sounds fascintating!!
I recognize Indigo! Thank you for all the recommendations – I’m always looking for new suggestions, especially in the summer. I’ve ordered the latest Kate Morton. I’m currently re-reading Elly Griffith’s Ruth Galloway series – this time in the order they were written to appreciate the full character development. Her final book in the series was released a few months ago, and I want to enjoy all the earlier books before I read the final one.
Loved Lessons in Chemistry! Read How to kill men and enjoyed the dark humour. Currently reading Killers of a Certain Age written by Deanna Raybourn and loving it 😊 Do check it out, you won’t be disappointed! It’s about four trained senior citizen assassins 😎
Thanks for the recommendations! It looks fun
Still Life by Sarah Winman–set in Florence and London. Descriptions of Florence
in the 40’s, 50’s, and 60’s including the horrific flooding of the Arno, 1966. Gentle charm
and wonderful descriptions and characters.
Two non fiction:
The Treeline: The Last Forest and the Future of Life on Earth
by Ben Rawlence: about the forests at the Arctic Circle and why we need them,
and the people who live in and near them.
Owls of the Eastern Ice: A Quest to Find and Save the World’s Largest Owl
by Jonathan C. Slaght: The largest and spookiest looking owl near Vladivostok, Russia.
Fiction: Pachinko: Min Jin Lee (made into a really good series on TV).
Here are a couple I just finished and really enjoyed: The Collected Regrets of Clover, The Lonely Hearts Bookclub, and Pineapple Street. Love Elin Hildebrand too!
Thank you for the list–a lot of good choices. The summary for “Hello Beautiful” by Ann Napolitano isn’t correct, though.
I was up writing late, thanks, I fixed it.
Awesome list! I’ve read some on here and just ordered some others. Couldn’t put down The Last Thing He Told Her and read in one sitting! Most unusual for me. 😃. Just finished The Personal Librarian and enjoyed it a lot. Love reading recommendations! Mine is The Measure by Nikki Erlick. My book club read it this past January and I still think about it. SO good! Happy reading!
Wow- reading is more popular than I thought! Happy to see this..,,of your just I’ve read several but could not get into Lessons in Chemistry ( will begin again) as I found the couple quite annoying as they discussed her not (at first) wanting to participate in crew. It was a turn off for me. I grew to dislike this couple. Crazy?
Loved Thursday Murder Club, and a few of the others too! Want to read Amor Towles book
again!
All the books you list are v good, but I LOVED Lessons in Chemistry. Amor Towles’ A Gentleman in Moscow is an all time favorite. May I recommend Station Eleven and Sea of Tranquility by Emily St. John Mandel? Also, News of the World by Paulette Jiles is another all-time favorite. Thanks for sharing Jennifer!
Thanks for sharing! They sound great!
Terry: I also absolutely loved A Gentleman in Moscow. Would also recommend Oh William! by Elizabeth Strout (although my favorite by her is Olive Kitteridge).
Thanks for the great list of books! I’m an avid reader and have read many on this list. Love getting good recommendations. One of my favorite authors is Elin Hildebrand. Right now I’m reading Life and Other Love Songs by Anissa Gray.
Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone is by far the most evocative book I’ve read in years. I guess Hannah is better known for The Nightingale, which you’ve recommended here, but The Great Alone is stunning! Highly recommended.
Thank you!
Agree that The Great Alone is a fantastic read! I’ve read it twice!
Bette
I totally agree! Kristen Hannah always delivers an excellent read!
Thanks for the recommendations! I have read several of these, and you are spot on.