Summer season calls for fun and exciting beach days. Imagine yourself reading and engaged in gripping tales while relaxing in the sun. What could improve this blissful beach life? A selection of culinary-themed books that satiate our appetites for literature and food.

These five food-themed beach books will surely delight readers of all tastes, ranging from savory culinary expeditions to sweet excursions in exotic locales.

Prepare for a delicious literary adventure that will leave you wanting more than just turning the pages again by packing your beach supplies and putting on sunscreen.

Effie Olsen's Summer Special by Rochelle Bilow

Effie Olsen, a seasoned chef returning to her tiny Maine island hometown after 16 years abroad, lands a job at the renowned Brown Butter restaurant. Despite her reluctance to stay due to the ghosts of her past, she finds herself drawn to her childhood friend, Ernie Callahan, who also works there. As they reconnect through shared memories and new experiences, Effie grapples with her conflicting desires for redemption and freedom. 

However, the restaurant harbors a secret that threatens her newfound happiness and professional opportunity. As summer wanes, Effie must decide whether to follow her heart or risk losing everything she has worked for.

Just One Taste by Lizzy Dent

Olive Stone had a falling out with her chef father 14 years ago. Charming Leo Ricci slips right in, becoming her father's new son and sous chef. Leo unexpectedly inherits her father's failing restaurant. Despite her intention to sell, her father's dying wish for her and Leo to complete his cookbook together complicates matters.

Olive and Leo journey from Sicily to Tuscany to Liguria for over four weeks, testing recipes and each other. As their time together progresses, Olive unexpectedly draws to Leo, questioning her initial intentions and discovering more about herself. 

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Triple Sec by TJ Alexander

Mel, a bartender at a chic New York City cocktail lounge, has a cynical view of love due to her own romantic struggles and witnessing numerous disastrous dates. However, her perspective shifts when Bebe, happily married to her partner Kade, proposes a date with Mel.

What starts as a casual outing evolves into a meaningful relationship for Mel, who explores new experiences and even considers pursuing her dream of opening her own bar. Amidst the chaos of these developments, Mel also discovers a potential connection with Kade.

Pearce Oysters by Joselyn Takacs

This debut novel focuses on the Pearce family, oyster farmers facing the threat of losing their livelihood due to the 2010 oil spill in Louisiana's coastal region. Takacs explores the intricate connections between family, society, heritage, and nature. The book delves into resilience, mutual reliance, and enduring resilience in the face of hardship, portraying the Pearce family's journey through crisis and their discovery of optimism amid challenges.

The Townsend Family Recipe for Disaster by Shauna Robinson

Mae Townsend has always yearned to connect with her estranged Black family in the South, envisioning lively gatherings and cherished traditions. With her wedding approaching and the realization of forever standing out among her White in-laws, Mae seizes the opportunity to visit her paternal grandmother's passing.

However, she is met with a family in disarray, harboring old grudges and mourning a lost mac & cheese recipe. Determined to salvage their bond, Mae organizes a memorable family barbecue, facing challenges and unexpected revelations.

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