Six local books to dive into at the beach
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Looking for your next beach read? These local books are a must-read this summer!
It’s finally December, which means summer has arrived, and it is time to take a break from the busy year! Now is the perfect time to start planning your coast trip and make use of the warm weather. Swimming, sports, tanning and best of all, reading a good book!
The question is: what to read?
But the better question is… how are you feeling?
Maybe you feel like something that gets you thinking about Australia’s past? Or something that has you laughing alongside the characters? Perhaps it could be a book that has you on the edge of your towel?
Fit for any vibe, here is a collection of heartwarming and thoughtful books written by Canberra authors that are ideal to read while basking in the sun at the beach.
Books that feel ‘Australian’
Fireshadow by Anthony Eaton
Fireshadow is a young adult fiction novel about two seventeen-year-old boys, Erich Pieters and Vinnie Santiani, living 50 years apart until their lives intertwine in a thrilling twist. The multiple POVs allow the novel to explore themes about war, family, survivor’s guilt and survival within the Australian bush.
It is a haunting but heartwarming narrative about life lessons and friendship that you will struggle to put down.
She Shapes History by Sita Sargeant
Sita Sargeant was recently named the 2026 Young Australian of the Year for her historical research about women’s stories and their impact on Australian towns and cities. Sargeant is the founder of She Shapes History, which shares untold stories about Australian women through guided tours around the country. They shine a light on the absence of women’s impact on our past in mainstream history.
She published a book, She Shapes History, earlier this year. The book features 30 different towns and cities across the country, telling inspiring and heartwarming stories about Australian women through the ages. It includes 18 city walks that might inspire you to immerse yourself in Australia’s wonderful towns and cities during your next holiday.
Or perhaps, you might prefer something lighter and upbeat for your beach reading? Here are some witty and charming romance novels that will make you laugh, love and swoon!
Books to make you feel good
Catching Feelings by Joanne Rose
Catching Feelings is Joanne Rose’s debut novel and was released earlier this year.
The novel is about Tahlia Walters, who is starting at her new job as a personal assistant at Florida Airlines, working for an overworked and single dad, Orion, grappling with finding time to spend with his daughter. This dual POV has you on your toes with a fresh setting, unique and interesting side-characters, and without the frustrating third-act break-up.
It’s light-hearted, it’s super cute and an original romcom to be captivated by this summer. It doesn’t get better than that!
The Wedding Party by Elisabeth Rose
The Wedding Party is a novel set in Australia during a pre-wedding trip that the officiant and friend of the bride, Phoebe, is attending. Brady, who reluctantly left his yacht charter company to attend, is the groom’s best man.
Phoebe loves weddings and hopes to one day experience her own fairy tale ending. Meanwhile, Brady wants nothing more than to spend a week with a group of frenzied women preparing for a wedding. What could possibly go wrong?
This charming and cute romance features relatable and engaging characters who are genuine and make you feel at home. The witty banter is amusing, and an ideal novel to relax and recharge with.
Books to keep you on your toes
The Celtic Dagger (Alistair Fitzjohn #1) by Jill Paterson
Jill Paterson is best known for her Fitzjohn Mystery series set in Sydney.
After an argument with his brother, Alex, James flies to Melbourne for a conference. Soon, he receives a call that Alex has died under suspicious circumstances. James returns to Sydney, only to realise that he has become a suspect, and it is now up to him to take the investigation into his own hands.
The Celtic Dagger is the first book in this nine-book series, beginning with a clever read to introduce Alistair Fitzjohn, a former police officer turned consultant, and a perfect murder mystery to relax and enjoy.
The Hating Game by Sally Thorne
BookTok sensation, The Hating Game,was Sally Thorne’s first book, going viral years after the book was first published!
This fast-paced and witty romcom is perfect for a lazy day in the sun. Joshua Templeman and Lucy Hutton are both executive assistants to the co-CEOs of their publishing company. When a promotion that could land them their dream jobs turns into a battle for the best, who will manage to make it to the top?
Diving into the waves of a fluffy workplace rivals to lovers read while your toes dig into the sand. What could be better?
Whether it’s reading your favourite comfort book, a classic you’ve been putting off for ages, or maybe a book written by a Canberran, reading is a perfect way to spend your summer days!
