12 Destination-Centric Novels
We’re almost a year into the pandemic stay-at-home orders. Going from traveling full time to barely leaving our home did a number on us. And while we’re feeling so lucky that we’re safe and healthy, we are missing experiencing new places. It took me awhile to get into a headspace where I could sit and read for more than 5 minutes. But once I did, I could not be stopped. I read 70 books in 2020! Today I’m sharing some of my favorite books that also serve as a great portal to far-off places.
The Nightingale - Kristin Hannah
NORMANDY, FRANCE
I began reading this book in Normandy and was stunned when I realized that I was in the exact region where the book takes place. This story of two sisters during WWII is incredible. Whether or not you’re a history buff, you will be entertained!
AFRICA, U.S. SOUTH, NEW YORK CITY
This novel spans 300 years of a family’s story from Ghana all the way to New York City. I spent a whole day in bed reading this book and only wished that each character’s story was longer.
Crazy Rich Asians - Kevin Kwan
SINGAPORE
In a rare occasion, both the book and the movie are equally amazing. I will take any medium possible to be transported to Singapore. And I just love Kevin Kwan’s writing style and sidebar notations.
Clap When You Land - Elizabeth Acevedo
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Two half-sisters share a summer together in the Dominican Republic after a family tragedy. I had never read a novel-in-verse before this book and initially I wasn’t sure I would like it. No surprise, I loved it and devoured this book in a day. Acevedo’s book With the Fire on High is another favorite of mine and I’m saving The Poet X for a rainy day.
State of Wonder - Ann Patchett
AMAZON RAINFOREST
Ann Patchett is one of my favorite authors and this is my favorite book of hers. Set in the Amazon rainforest, a pharmaceutical office administrator sets off in search of her former mentor, a researcher developing a new drug. Scenes from this book still make a regular appearance in my day dreams!
MALLORCA, SPAIN
Emma Straub is a genius at writing dysfunctional families and this book is no exception. Family antics amongst tapas, beach visits, and tennis games is my kind of genre.
One Day in December - Josie Silver
LONDON
I read so many books set in London. And I’m not complaining since they remind me of a city close to my heart and my best friend who lives there. This story of fate and love is my favorite novel set in one of my favorite places.
CAPRI
Another Kevin Kwan book because he can write a destination as a main character like no one else. Crazy Rich Asians but set in Capri is the best description for the book. He’s got a style and sticks with it. And I love that!
ITALY
The book opens on the Ligurian Coast in the 1960s, with an American actress and a young Italian innkeeper who meet for the first time. The story unfolds over a 50 year timeline. I always gravitate towards books that span decades and this one is easy to love.
The Wedding Date - Jasmine Guillory
SAN FRANCISCO & LOS ANGELES
Another of my favorite authors, this is the first book in her loosely tied together series. The Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco is the star of a handful of the first scenes. (We spent our first anniversary there!) Other guest stars? Tacos from LA and San Francisco, San Francisco parks, the list goes on and on.
PACIFIC COAST, U.S.A.
The last two recommendations are not novels… but you will forgive me, right? I love a memoir!
Do you love to read books about adventures you would never take? I do! I loved taking in every detail of Cheryl Stayed’s journey from Mexico to the Bridge of the Gods. Especially since my sister was just about to start off on the same journey.
Garlic and Sapphires - Ruth Reichl
NEW YORK CITY
I love New York and I love food. This book was a dream. It gives you a glimpse into life as a local in New York. Something I always enjoy reminiscing about since I went to college in the city.
What are your favorite destination-centric books? Share them below. I LOVE a book chat and, while my library holds can’t handle another book, you know I’m happy to add more to the TBR (To Be Read) list!
