By Méabh McDonnell

Sunshine, holidays, beach towels and deckchairs deem only one other companion: a good book.  Here we have selected the best books for you to sit back and relax with all through the summer months.

The Truth About You by Melissa Hill

Publisher: Hodder and Stoughton

Dublin girl Melissa Hill proves that Irish towns are by no means quiet in her new novel. She tells the story of three different mothers-to-be and the trials and tribulations they face over the course of their pregnancies. Told with dark chocolate richness, this compelling story has a mystery at its centre and until you discover it, you won’t put it down.

Look Back in Hunger by Jo Brand

Publisher: Headline Review

British comedienne Jo Brand’s lavish autobiography doesn’t pull any punches. From hilarious anecdotes involving her least favourite motorways to moving accounts of life as a psychiatric nurse, mother and wife, this book gives a shocking and fresh voice to the laments and laughter of being a modern woman. With laugh out loud moments throughout, you’re guaranteed to be rolling around on your beach towel.

The Devil by Ken Bruen

Publisher: Transworld Ireland

For those of you who prefer a gripping crime caper to the life of  ‘modern woman’, Ken Bruen’s ‘The Devil’ is the book to make you sit up and pay attention. The chilling story follows PI Jack Taylor who prowls the streets of Galway on the trail of a killer with a sinister secret. The perfect antidote to any dreary days on your holiday, ‘The Devil’ will spice things up in no time.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

Publisher: Penguin Classics

Finally, what better way to spend your holiday than bathing in the sunshine in the company of literature’s most sought after bachelor, Mr Darcy? Here we have the book that started it all…for without Lizzie Bennett there would be no Carrie Bradshaw. Get embroiled in the Bennett sister’s search for love and the hilarity, heartbreak and happy endings that ensue.

Each available at all good bookstores nationwide.

Photographed books supplied by Dubray Books, Shop Street, Galway.