Ambar Ramirez Carmen Macri
Words by Ambar Ramirez and Carmen Macri
AMBAR: We know what it’s like to have a TBR (to be read) list so overwhelming that you end up doom-scrolling instead — especially when it comes to picking a book for the beach. With sand, water, children screaming and music blaring, you need a book that will easily distract you from everything else. That’s why, for this column, we’ve made things easier by compiling a list of beach reads tailored to your favorite genre. You’re welcome.
CARMEN: I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again: I have pigeonholed myself when it comes to books I read, so I may be a bit biased. Unfortunately for me, the only genre of books that will satisfy my little pea brain is fantasy. I need the stakes to be high. I need drama. I need death. I need enemies to lovers. I simply cannot fully enjoy a novel unless there is magic or dragons or steamy descriptive sex scenes (sorry, Mom). So if this is up your alley here is my beach read for you: “Powerless” by Lauren Roberts. (The sequel, “Reckless,” was just released.) “Powerless” is an epic YA fantasy novel with a fast-paced plot and banter that will have you kicking your feet in the air. It is one of those books that will have you turning the pages so quickly you might start a fire.
AMBAR: For those of you who enjoy the creativity of fantasy but could do without the dragons, fairies and mermaids, so fiction, read “My Year of Rest and Relaxation” by Ottessa Moshfegh. This novel follows a recent Columbia graduate who is navigating living in New York City while suffering from mental illness. In an effort to escape her life, the narrator embarks on an extended hibernation journey of figuring out what’s the worst that could happen if she just sleeps through her life and problems. It’s a bold and sometimes unsettling story that had me crying and laughing by the end of it. And since you will hopefully be resting and relaxing at the beach, I can’t think of a better title to pick up.
CARMEN: Continuing with the fantasy train, if you are looking for the magic, dragons and steamy sex I previously mentioned, let me introduce you to Fourth Wing. This is categorized as a romantasy novel — hence the steamy sex. The series follows Violet Sorrengail as she enters the riders quadrant at Basgiath War College where she is met with adversity for the past doings of her mother. There is danger, friendship, betrayal, high stakes, dragons and enemies to lovers. What more could you possibly need from a book?
AMBAR: Creative non-fiction is one of my personal favorite book genres and also the most underrated. You can truly learn a lot about yourself through the eyes of someone else’s memories. So if this sounds like you, first off let’s be friends, and secondly, pick up “Just Kids” by singer-songwriter Patti Smith. Smith is known for her poetic words and lyrical prose. In “Just Kids,” you follow along Smith’s journey of moving to the Big Apple during the ’60s and ’70s where she navigates the complexities of becoming an adult, falling in love and becoming an artist. It’s an honest and vulnerable story of youth.
CARMEN: For those mystery lovers, I recommend “The Housemaid” by Freida McFadden. This is one of the few times I have strayed from fantasy and actually enjoyed it. “The Housemaid” is a gripping psychological thriller that follows the story of Millie Calloway, a woman who takes a job as a live-in housemaid for the wealthy Winchester family. Millie quickly realizes the household is full of dark secrets and unsettling mysteries. With a compelling narrative and unexpected twists, the novel delves into themes of deception, trust and the complexities of human relationships, keeping you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
AMBAR: Typically, if you said your favorite genre is romance, I would direct you to “A Court of Thorns and Roses.”
CARMEN: I could go on for days and days and days about “A Court of Thorns and Roses.” Please do not get me started. I will cry. Please.
AMBAR: But we don’t want to make Carmen cry and that series falls more into romantasy. So instead, if you prefer true romance, let me direct you to “People We Meet On Vacation” by Emily Henry. This novel is a collection of travel memories between the friends-to-lovers Poppy and Alex. It’s a physical representation of the saying “opposites attract” and will leave you booking an out-of-country flight with your best friend.
CARMEN: And here is the only other genre that I have dipped my toes into, horror — shocking, right? And to entirely fit the stereotype, I will be recommending a Stephen King novel: “Holly.” For those who love to read horror novels, I’m sure you are well aware of Mr. King. As I am sure you are also aware of the fact he — for some reason — never knows how to finish a book. But that is neither here nor there. This novel centers on private investigator Holly Gibney as she takes on a complex and eerie case. Known for her sharp instincts and unwavering determination, Holly uncovers a chilling mystery that delves deep into the sinister aspects of human nature.
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