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We’ve partnered with our friends at Hatchards to curate a collection of captivating summer reads. From feel-good fiction to immersive escapes, these books are perfect for slow afternoons and relaxing moments outdoors.
Summer is all about slowing down, switching off and making the most of time outdoors. That's why we've partnered with Hatchards to share this season's must-read books – a selection of captivating stories that pair perfectly with sunny afternoons, peaceful garden moments and long, golden evenings.
The Artist by Lucy Steeds
This fantastically atmospheric novel takes us to a hot summer in 1920s Provence. Young journalist Joseph goes to stay with famously reclusive artist, Edouard Tartuffe and his niece Ettie in their remote farmhouse. It's an idyllic setting, but is all as it seems?
Villa Coco by Andrew Sean Greer
Our next choice is set in the glorious landscape of Tuscany. American archivist graduate Giovedi (as he comes to be known), answers an advert to record the contents of the elderly Baronessa Coco's home. What unfolds is a funny and heartwarming tale of the beauty of living and loving life to the full, whatever your age.
The Art of a Lie by Laura Shepherd-Robinson
This deliciously fun and elegantly crafted crime novel finds us in a Georgian sweet shop, based on a real establishment that existed just around the corner from Hatchards Piccadilly. Owner Hannah Cole's husband has been horribly murdered and their shop is in trouble. Can she unmask the murder and keep her business afloat?
Upon a White Horse by Peter Ross
Peter Ross takes us on a time travelling journey across Britain and Ireland, visiting sites of ancient significance and meeting the people connected to them. Known for his bestselling books, Steeplechasing and A Tomb with a View, his signature is his beautiful and evocative writing. Whether you wish to visit some of these amazing places, or to travel from your armchair, there is much inspiration within the pages of his wonderful book.
How to Build a Spitfire by David Price
This is a charming and whimsical look at one man's passion project - to build a Spitfire in his back garden. As he attempts this ambitious undertaking he explores the origins of the Spitfire, the feat of engineering involved, and stories of the men who showed incredible courage in flying them.
How Animals Heal Us by Jay Griffiths
There have been some astonishing stories of the positive impact of animals in our lives, most recently the beautiful Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton. In this new book, Jay Griffiths shares inspiring tales of both wild and domestic animals, from air, earth and sea, providing a fascinating insight into how they help us and what we can learn from them.
If you enjoyed these recommendations, you can visit Hatchards in Cheltenham or discover the full collection online at hatchards.co.uk