As you’re lounging by the pool, at the beach or even outside, summer reading can be one of the most relaxing activities in the warm weather. Engrossing yourself in some great chick lit novel can help ease your mind while you work on your rays. Here are some great reads:

Barefoot by Elin Hilderbrand. This is beach reading at its finest; three women – one sick with cancer, one just fired after having an affair with her student and one whose husband cheated, all move to the Hamptons for the summer. Juicy, juicy.

The Other Boleyn Girl. Before you see the movie (or if you haven’t already), read this book about the tragic love affair that will suck you in and make you unable to leave the page.

Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin. This book chronicles best friends in love with the same man and how an unexpected romance changes everyones lives for the better. The best part: there’s a sequel!

Loose Girl. A Memoir of Promiscuity by Kerry Kohen. More on the sad, but touching side, this memoir chronicles the life of an adolescent female who turns to self-destruction when she has no place else to turn. After reading, it gives you hope on the choices you make in your life.

Are You There Vodka? It’s Me Chelsea by Chelsea Handler. My favorite raunchy comedian writes a book detailing her life, her messes and her love vodka. One word: Hilarious. Pick it up.

The Beach House by Jane Green. Set again in Nantucket (such a perfect setting for a beach book), an older woman rediscovers herself after being forced to rent out rooms in her house to vacationers. A feel-good book at its best. Jane Green is a fabulous author and this book is pure proof of that.

Life With My Sister Madonna by Christopher Ciccone. This goes without saying, but I’m dying to read this book. Madonna’s fame, told by her non-celeb brother, who – I’m sure – has a case of jealously towards the successful converted Brit.

Pure Romance Between the Sheets: Find Your Best Sexual Self and Enhance Your Intimate Relationship by Patty Brisben. Why not read a book this summer that can enhance (and spice up) your bedroom activities? Your man, woman (or even yourself!) will be thanking you once you read this book about finding your inner sexuality.

The Dirty Secrets Club by Meg Gardiner. If you’re a murder mystery buff, this book about a series of murder mysteries will keep you on a thrill ride to the very end.

Girls Like Us by Sheila Weller. ABC News claims this is one of the best “Sizzling Summer Reads,” about three women – Carly Simon, Carole King and Joni Mitchell – come of age in the 60s music and how, these legendary figures, are really, just girls like us.

There you have it ladies. Now, throw on that suit, grab a towel and one of these books and head for the sun!

(photo courtesy of stock.xchng)