We can all agree, summer looks a lot different this year. Shelter in place orders are gradually lifting and we are taking new precautions for navigating the world outside our homes. Tourists aren’t descending on amusement parks and vacation destinations at the same rate as in previous years, and summer traditions like pool parties, festivals, and travel have been postponed or cancelled. In the midst of all this change, one thing remains the same—you can still transport yourself through the pages of a book. You can experience the cultures, landscapes, languages, and cuisines of beautiful destinations by simply turning a page. Roam the streets of Barcelona, cool off in Iceland, and have a love affair with Spain. No need to make a reservation or pack your bags—simply open the cover of one of these hot new releases.
The Island by Ragnar Jónasson
Destination: Iceland
Detective Inspector Hulda Hermannsdottir of the Reykjavik police department returns in the second book of Jónasson’s “Hidden Iceland” trilogy. Sent to investigate what happened at a remote hunting lodge on the isolated island of Elliðaey, Hermannsdottir must determine if the tragedy that befell this group of friends has connections with the murder of a young woman ten years ago out on the Westfjords. Full of atmospheric suspense, this Scandanavian noir novel will send chills down your spine on even the hottest summer day.
A Long Petal of the Sea by Isabel Allende
Destinations: Spain and Chile
Civil war has broken out following General Franco’s overthrow of the Spanish government, forcing pregnant widow Roser, her brother-in-law Victor, and hundreds of thousands of others to make a treacherous journey over the mountains of Spain to the French border. Traveling to Chile to further distance themselves from the war, Roser and Victor start over as refugees on a new continent. Their new life is full of obstacles and trials, but one thing remains the same—their dedication and devotion to Spain.
The Jetsetters by Amanda Eyre Ward
Destinations: Athens, Rome, and Barcelona
After submitting a steamy essay to a contest, seventy-year-old Charlotte Perkins wins a ten-day Mediterranean cruise aboard the over-the-top Splendido Marveloso. Dreaming of reuniting her estranged children during the trip, Charlotte has visions of a joyous adventure, but her dysfunctional family is holding a lot of grudges and secrets. Full of hilarious mishaps and heartfelt confrontations, you will cheer on the Perkins family as they try to reconnect and accept one another amid the gorgeous scenery of Southern Europe.
