The countdown to summer 2026 has begun, and a group of esteemed authors is sharing their top holiday reads to make the most of your break. From gripping thrillers to epic historical sagas, these carefully curated recommendations aim to cater to every taste and travel scenario.
Jenny Colgan, an accomplished author herself, stresses the importance of variety in holiday reading, urging against overindulging in a single genre. Her personal picks for the summer include Kathy Burke's autobiography, A Mind of My Own, for the outward journey, and Ann Patchett's Whistler for post-rosé relaxation time. For those seeking an immersive read while abroad, Daniyal Mueenuddin's This Is Where the Serpent Lives is suggested, while Ferdia Lennon's Glorious Exploits is ideal for a quick, engaging read.
Other prominent authors have also weighed in with their favourites. Freida McFadden praises Kathryn Stockett's The Calamity Club, a historical novel set during the Great Depression, for its masterful narration. Caro Claire Burke recommends Jenny Jackson's The Shampoo Effect, describing it as a 'frothy and clever' vacation read about friends navigating secrets and betrayal in a Massachusetts coastal town. Taffy Brodesser-Akner highlights Alexis Soloski's Here in the Dark, a modern noir thriller that she found impossible to put down. Alice Oseman, creator of Heartstopper, recommends Sayaka Murata's Convenience Store Woman for its unique exploration of a woman's inner world.
Before embarking on your travels, particularly to popular European destinations, it is essential to check the latest FCO travel advice. Many EU countries allow visa-free travel for UK citizens for short stays (typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period), but requirements can vary, and it's always wise to confirm specific entry conditions for your chosen destination.
Airlines continue to expand their offerings, with new services often announced from regional hubs. When planning your trip, consider exploring these new routes for easier access to various destinations, particularly if you're heading to countries within the Schengen Area or those soon to implement the ETIAS system. It's worth noting that UK travellers may need to apply for an online travel authorisation in the future, at a small fee of around €7 (approximately £6).