Beach Reading in the Mountains

By Jen Schwartz, Briars & Brambles Books, Windham

The term “Beach Read” describes a genre of books with quick, engaging plots making them fun to pick up and hard to put down. The books are meant to be easily tossed into a bag and toted around making them likely to become well-worn. Many “beach reads” feature the words, “beach, summer, shore” in the title and a cover which easily conveys exactly what they are and often, where they take place … some quaint seaside town or tropical island. This then begs the question: can you read a beach read while you are on vacation in the mountains? Of course you can. The following book descriptions and reviews are from Edelweiss, a subscription database for publishers and book buyers. Each has quick engaging plots that are set in the Catskills and are ideal for “Beach Reading in the Mountains.”

Summer at Willow Lake (The Lakeshore Chronicles #1) by Susan Wiggs: The Lakeshore Chronicles have captivated thousands of readers with unforgettable characters, warm humor, and engaging stories. Olivia, Connor and the families and friends of Willow Lake make these emotional romances must-reads.

Last Summer at the Golden Hotel by Elyssa Friedland: A family reunion for the ages when two clans convene for the summer at their beloved getaway in the Catskills—perfect for fans of Dirty Dancing and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

The Inn at Lake Devine by Elinor Lipman: This “tale of delicious revenge” (USA Today) is also “a punchy little comedy of manners …. Think Jane Austen in the Catskills” (Chicago Tribune).

Subtle Bodies by Norman Rush: A sophisticated romp through the tribulations and joys of marriage and friendship, a group of college friends reunites two decades after graduation.

Who is Maud Dixon? by Alexandra Andrews: “Dark comedy meets twisty thriller …. Couldn’t be more fun.”—People magazine.

An Unwanted Guest by Shari Lapena: A weekend retreat at a cozy mountain lodge is supposed to be the perfect getaway … but when the storm hits, no one is getting away.

That Weekend by Kara Thomas: Three Best Friends, A Lake House, A Secret Trip—What could go wrong?

Kaaterskill Falls by Allegra Goodman: It is 1976. And the tiny upstate New York town of Kaaterskill Falls is bustling with summer people in dark coats, fedoras, and long, modest dresses. “The brushstrokes seemingly casual yet sure, always the exact—and unlikely—equivalent of a shadow or reflected gleam.”—Anna Shapiro, New York Newsday

Each of these books captures the mystery and mystique of the Catskills, regardless of the era in which they are set. We can’t think of a better way than to spend the summer reading these “mountain beach reads” and then setting off to discover the locales in which they take place.

Intrigued by any of these titles or want some more recommendations for a great beach read? Visit Briars & Brambles Books at the corner of Route 296 and South Street in Windham—Jen or another member of her knowledgeable staff will help you pick out your next page-turner.