Our choice of Best Summer Reads Where the House Steals the Show

As the summer holiday season is in full swing for many, there's no better time to lose yourself in a good book. For those of us passionate about homes and locations, stories where the setting plays a pivotal role can be especially captivating. Whether you're lounging in your garden or heading off to sit on a sandy beach for a few weeks here are some great books where the house or location is central to the story.

"The Lamplighters" by Emma Stonex
Setting: Eilean Mòr, Outer Hebrides

Inspired by real events, "The Lamplighters" is a suspenseful and atmospheric novel set on a remote island in the Outer Hebrides. The story revolves around the mysterious disappearance of three lighthouse keepers. The isolated and haunting setting of the lighthouse on Eilean Mòr is vividly brought to life, making it an essential character in this gripping mystery.

"Rebecca" by Daphne du Maurier
Setting: Manderley, Cornwall

This classic novel transports readers to the grand, haunting estate of Manderley. The new Mrs. de Winter is overwhelmed by the lingering presence of her husband's first wife, Rebecca, whose memory seems to pervade every room and shadowy corner of the mansion. Du Maurier’s vivid descriptions make Manderley a character in its own right, enveloping readers in an atmosphere of mystery and suspense.

"The Lake House" by Kate Morton
Setting: Loeanneth, Cornwall

Kate Morton’s novel spans decades, weaving a tale of family secrets and mysteries centred around a grand estate in Cornwall. Loeanneth, the enchanting lakeside house, is at the heart of the story, where a tragic event in 1933 leaves ripples that are felt years later. Morton's lush descriptions and intricate plotting make this book a delightful escape into a world where the past and present converge.

"The Paris Library" by Janet Skeslien Charles
Setting: Paris, France & Montana, USA

Though primarily set in Paris, this dual-timeline novel also takes readers to a small town in Montana. The story centres on the American Library in Paris during World War II and its impact on the characters’ lives. The vividly described library and the contrasting rural setting of Montana in the 1980s create a compelling backdrop for this heartwarming and poignant tale.

"The Whalebone Theatre" by Joanna Quinn (2022)
Setting: Dorset, England

"The Whalebone Theatre" is a coming-of-age story set in a sprawling estate on the Dorset coast. After finding a whale carcass, siblings Cristabel, Flossie, and Digby transform it into their private theatre. The novel spans decades, capturing the essence of the estate and its impact on their lives through wartime and beyond. Quinn’s evocative prose brings the enchanting and turbulent setting to life.

"Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand" by Helen Simonson
Setting: Edgecombe St. Mary, Sussex

For a more light-hearted yet deeply touching read, Helen Simonson’s debut novel offers a charming portrayal of life in a small English village. The story of the retired Major Pettigrew and his unlikely friendship with Mrs. Ali, a local shopkeeper, is set against the picturesque backdrop of Edgecombe St. Mary. The village, with its quaint cottages and community life, plays a significant role in this heartwarming narrative.

"The Locked Room" by Elly Griffiths
Setting: Norfolk, England

In this gripping mystery, forensic archaeologist Dr. Ruth Galloway investigates a series of suspicious deaths in Norfolk. The setting of the isolated, windswept marshes and ancient ruins plays a crucial role in creating the novel's tense and foreboding atmosphere. Griffiths masterfully uses the Norfolk landscape to enhance the suspense and intrigue of the story.

“And Then There Were None” by Agatha Christie
Setting: Soldier Island, Devon

This classic mystery is set on the isolated and eerie Soldier Island off the Devon coast. Ten strangers are lured to the island under various pretexts, only to find themselves cut off from the mainland and accused of heinous crimes by an unseen host. As they are methodically killed off one by one, the claustrophobic and ominous atmosphere of Soldier Island and the house amplifies the suspense and paranoia. The chilling plot turns the island into a sinister character in its own right, making it a quintessential read for fans of mystery and intrigue.

“The Paris Apartment” by Lucy Foley
Setting: Paris

In The Paris Apartment, Jess has recently lost her job and shows up at her half-brother's place in Paris looking for refuge. However, he's nowhere to be found. As Jess tries to track down his whereabouts, she starts to uncover the secrets of this building and its residents...

Conclusion

There’s something uniquely captivating about a story where the house or location is integral to the plot. These books not only offer gripping tales but also transport you to some of the most enchanting and atmospheric settings. What would you add to this list of books?

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