10 B.C. Books to Make Your Summer Unforgettable
Curate the Ultimate Summer Reading List
As summer rolls in, so does the urge to lounge with a great book. Whether you’re headed to the beach, settling into a hammock, or just taking it easy at home, these 10 B.C. books promise to be your perfect companions. From gripping mysteries to heartfelt adventures and local history, there’s something here for every reader.
Page-Turners and Heartfelt Stories
The Tiger and the Cosmonaut
By Eddy Boudel Tan (Penguin Canada — Viking)
Escape into a world of small-town secrets and family mysteries. When Casper returns to his B.C. hometown after his father vanishes, he uncovers truths about his missing twin brother, making this a story that lingers long after the last page.Who Shot Estevan Light: And Other Tales From the Salish Sea and Beyond
By Douglas Hamilton (Caitlin Press)
Dive into maritime lore and coastal legends with this collection. Expect pirates, rumrunners, and wild tales that bring the Salish Sea to life—ideal for your next cabin getaway.Killer on the First Page
By Ian Ferguson and Will Ferguson (Harper Collins)
Laugh and sleuth alongside Miranda Abbott as she wrangles crime writers at a festival where murder is more than just fiction. Witty, clever, and packed with surprises.
Thrillers, Romps, and Travel Adventures
The Deepest Fake
By Dan Kalla (Simon & Schuster)
Vancouver’s own thriller master blends AI intrigue with personal drama. When a tech CEO’s life unravels, he must question reality itself in a world of deepfakes.Charity Trickett is Not So Glamorous
By Christine Stringer (Spark Press)
Follow a young Vancouverite chasing Hollywood dreams. Set in 1997, this novel mixes ambition, betrayal, and big mistakes for a story that’s both funny and heartfelt.A Season in the Okanagan
By Bill Arnott (Rocky Mountain Books)
If you’re staying close to home, let Arnott guide you through the Okanagan Valley’s sun-soaked landscapes and hidden gems.
Mysteries, Histories, and Local Legends
Bones of a Giant
By Brian Thomas Isaac (Random House Canada)
Set on the Okanagan Indian Reserve in 1968, this novel explores grief, coming of age, and resilience from the perspective of a young protagonist.Dead Men Wag No Tails
By Sarah Fox (Severn House)
A cozy mystery with a twist: murder, intrigue, love, and dogs with supernatural powers. Perfect for fans of light-hearted whodunits.The Final Spire: Mystery Mountain Maina in the 1930s
By Trevor Marc Hughes (Ronsdale Press)
Join pioneering climbers as they tackle Mystery Mountain in this true adventure story. History, courage, and breathtaking landscapes await.Calm Harbour, Turbulent Seas: A History of Ucluelet
By Shirley Martin (Harbour Publishing)
Explore the rich history of Ucluelet, from First Nations stories to shipwrecks and sea serpents. A must-read for anyone heading to the west coast.
Why These Books Belong on Your Summer List
Each title offers a unique window into B.C. life, history, and imagination. Whether you’re looking for a quick laugh, a deep dive into local lore, or an edge-of-your-seat thriller, these books deliver. So grab your sunscreen, find a shady spot, and let these stories transport you—no travel required.
