Seasalt Words: Uplifting springtime reads from our book club

Whether you’re at home or on holiday, the stories between the pages of these captivating books make the perfect escape for warmer days.


There’s nothing like the feeling of turning the TV off, putting your phone down and losing track of time in a good book. With warmer weather on the way, we’re looking forward to reading outdoors, so we asked our Seasalt Words Book Club members for recommendations that provide a spot of escapism, whether it’s patio or poolside.

The Enchanted April, Elizabeth von Arnim

The Enchanted April follows the story of four women who are alike only in their dissatisfaction with their everyday lives. They leave rainy, grey 1920s England for a holiday in the sunnier climes of Italy where a restful, yet witty, story unfolds.

“Drenched in sunshine. Four miserable, unhappy women get together to rent an Italian castle for the month of April. They rediscover themselves. Light and funny, but also great quality and a great read.” – Sally Richardson

The Cleaner of Chartres, Salley Vickers

A rich tale of darkness and light, love and loss, The Cleaner of Chartres tells of the mysterious Agnès Morel. Her small acts of kindness touch the lives of those around her, but when her past is exposed, Agnès must confront her history.

“A beautiful story set within the stunning cathedral. It’s like going on holiday from your armchair.” – Caz Fielden

Still Life, Sarah Winman

A love letter to Florence, Italy, Still Life tells the story of Ulysses Temper, who we meet as a young private in the British Army of World War II. It’s an uplifting novel that paints a portrait of love, family, beauty and fate.

“Engrossing big novel with a lively humour underpinning a wide cast of characters. Characters to love.” – Raewyn Riach

Away with the Penguins, Hazel Prior

A heart-warming read, Away with the Penguins tells a life-affirming tale of ageing, kindness, and caring for our planet through the heroine, Veronica McCreedy. Delightful and funny, it’s a story that’s full of hope.

“Absorbing, humorous read. A bit of a different holiday.” – Angela Ahern

The Paris Wife, Paula McClain

A historical fiction novel, The Paris Wife depicts the romance, marriage and divorce of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife Hadley Richardson. A poignant portrayal of love and loyalty, it’s a truly atmospheric read.

“A wonderful novel about Ernest Hemingway’s first wife. It follows the couple from their first meeting in Chicago through their time in Paris and Spain while Hemingway was writing The Sun Also Rises, all the way to the eventual end of their marriage. It’s the perfect form of escapism!” – Krista Anderson

Frenchman’s Creek, Daphne Du Maurier

Set in Cornwall during the reign of Charles II, Frenchman’s Creek is a gothic romance full of pirates, smuggling and swooping emotions. A tale of adventure, passion, danger and mystery, it makes for a compelling slice of drama.

“An oldie but a great story, very atmospheric especially if you are holidaying in Cornwall.” – Toni Cox

Grown Ups, Marian Keyes

A sparkling comedic read that provides a clever and honest look at family relationships, from love to betrayal, secrets and all. This witty, humorous tale that calls into question just how civilised and ‘grown-up’ any of us actually are.

“Perfect holiday reading” – Liz Phillips

 

The Man Who Died Twice, Richard Osman

A crime novel from Richard Osman, The Man Who Died Twice is the sequel to the popular The Thursday Murder Club. Set in Kent, it follows the entertaining story of four pensioners who solve murders. This time, diamonds are involved.

“Interesting, humorous and easy to read. Perfect for hols.” – Elizabeth Lloyd