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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Holy Cross chapter.

One of my resolutions for 2023 was to read more for fun! I have always loved “beach reads” for reading during my free time. I am a firm believer that a book does not have to be so serious to be worthwhile. I prefer reading books that are entertaining and that I practically cannot put down until I finish them. These are my 5 favorite “fun reads” from 2023 and why! 

  1. The Prisoner by B. A. Paris 

This book was a totally random choice that I picked up from Logan Airport during October break, and it did not disappoint. The Prisoner tells a backward account of one woman’s situation locked in a dark room and how she got there. I have not read many thrillers for fun in the past, but I definitely will again, especially by B. A. Paris. I am a huge fan of this book and I cannot wait to read more from B. A. Paris in the future. 

  1. Summer of ‘69 by Elin Hilderbrand 

After borrowing this book from a friend, I read this book on the beach this past summer. Summer of ‘69 transports you to a lovely summer in Nantucket primarily following the story of 13-year-old Jessie as well as others in the family. This story sets the perfect summer vibe; however, I would recommend the read at any time of the year. 

  1. Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

I am such a Taylor Jenkins Reid fan! Daisy Jones & the Six is my favorite book of hers. Elin Hilderbrand said it is “An explosive, dynamite, down-and-dirty look at a fictional rock band told in an interview style that gives it irresistible surface energy.” I think this quote encapsulates it perfectly. 

  1. Walden Two by B. F. Skinner 

This book was actually an assigned reading for one of my classes that I did not have time to fully read this past school year. Walden Two is a known classic that was published back in 1948. It depicts a society where our human problems are solved by scientific technology of human conduct. The utopia created in the book is captivating to read and think about. I would recommend this book even to people who don’t like “school books.”

  1. Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid 

Malibu Rising is the perfect combination of silly beach reading and good storytelling. It tells the story of Nina Riva’s fancy party in 1983 with flashbacks to life in the past. The four siblings featured in the book as well as other characters all add really interesting dimensions to the story.

Ann O'Malley

Holy Cross '26

Ann is a current sophomore at Holy Cross from Milton, Massachusetts. She enjoys spending time with friends, listening to music, and writing!