From Ian McEwan to EL James: Our recommended Summer Reads

With the dismal British weather it’s no wonder that many of us are scanning Expedia and booking those last minute flights. If you’re migrating to the sun and are stuck for a couple of beach reads, here are my suggestions for a few that should be on every book enthusiast’s list this summer:

The Sense Of An Ending – Julian Barnes

With the Man Brooker prize shortlist recently announced, it’s high time we all made sure we’ve read last year’s winner. Barnes’ tale of adolescent friendship and secrets is a complex one, which plays dividends to a persistent reader.

Sweet Tooth – Ian McEwan

Sex, lies and espionage – this is a man after my own heart. With McEwan’s track record (well, perhaps excluding the bizarre On Chesil Beach) it’s likely that this will be another great read.

Wolf Hall – Hilary Mantel

With its sequel, Bringing Up The Bodies, now out and receiving rave reviews, there is even more reason for readers to acquaint themselves with the literary triumph that is Wolf Hall. Fans of the Tudors, fans of a grisly tale, or just fans of a great story should add this to their Waterstones basket.

Fifty Shades Of Grey – EL James

Love it or hate it, everybody’s talking about it. EL James’s take on sexual domination has certainly caused a stir and it’s definitely worth a read – even if it’s just to join in the discussion.

Me Before You – Jojo Moyes

This one I haven’t read, but apparently it’s the ‘new One Day’ and was Richard and Judy’s Spring Book Club Winner 2012. Alternatively, just read One Day again. It looks far better.