Top Books to Read on a Dominican Republic Vacation (Part 2)
Pack the perfect books for your DR getaway! From thrillers to romance and self-help, Part 2 has 10 trending reads you’ll love. Click to find your next favorite!
LOCAL CULTURE & LIFESTYLE
5/31/20257 min read
Table of Contents
1. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins – Self-Help / Personal Growth
2. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry – Romance
3. Verity by Colleen Hoover – Psychological Thriller
4. The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren – Romantic Comedy
5. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry – Romance / Travel
6. The Visual Detox by Marine Tanguy – Mindfulness / Digital Wellness
7. Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand – Beachy Drama
8. The Catch Me If You Can by Jessica Nabongo – Travel/Photography/Essay Collection
9. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel – Finance / Personal Growth
Bonus: Tips for the Best Reading Experience on Your Dominican Vacation
Introduction
Already breezed through your last book or just in the mood for a new vacation read? After the success of Part 1, we’re back with another round of amazing picks to keep your beach days and poolside lounging even better.
Whether you're relaxing at an all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, sipping coconut water in Bayahibe, or watching the sunset from a rooftop terrace in Santo Domingo, these books are perfect for escaping, unwinding, or discovering something new.
From page-turning thrillers to inspiring non-fiction and feel-good fiction, Part 2 delivers even more trending reads to pack for your Dominican Republic adventure.
1. The Let Them Theory by Mel Robbins – Self-Help / Personal Growth
✅What it’s about:
Tired of stressing over what others do? This #1 bestseller by Mel Robbins teaches a simple but powerful mindset: “Let them.” Instead of trying to control people or situations, learn to let go, focus on yourself, and protect your peace. Robbins shares practical tips, relatable stories, and science-backed advice to help you set boundaries and live a happier life.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
Vacation is the best time to reset. Reading this in the Dominican Republic will help you let go of stress and embrace the moment. Robbins’ friendly tone feels like a pep talk from a good friend, and you’ll head home not just relaxed, but recharged with a fresh mindset.
2. Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry – Romance
✅What it’s about:
One of 2025’s hottest new reads, this instant bestseller (and Reese’s Book Club pick) follows two writers—Alice, an eager journalist, and Hayden, a grumpy Pulitzer Prize winner—who are both chasing the life story of a mysterious, unforgettable woman. As they dig into the past, sparks fly, secrets unfold, and their rivalry turns into something more. Expect clever banter, slow-burn romance, and emotional depth—classic Emily Henry.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
There’s nothing like reading the latest bestseller while stretched out on the beach. It’s fresh, fun, and just mysterious enough to keep you turning pages between cocktails. Whether you're by the pool or waiting for your flight, this book delivers a smart, feel-good escape.
3. Verity by Colleen Hoover – Psychological Thriller
✅What it’s about:
Lowen, a struggling writer, is hired to finish a bestselling author’s book series—only to uncover a shocking hidden manuscript in the author’s home. The deeper she reads, the darker the secrets become. Twists, tension, and a touch of forbidden romance make Verity an addictive, edge-of-your-seat read that’s sold millions for a reason.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
From the first page, you’ll be hooked. Whether you’re poolside in Punta Cana or sipping coffee in Santo Domingo, this thriller turns every quiet moment into a suspenseful escape. It’s fast, twisted, and perfect for getting lost in.
4. The Unhoneymooners by Christina Lauren – Romantic Comedy
✅What it’s about:
Olive and Ethan can’t stand each other—but after a wedding disaster, they end up on a free honeymoon to Maui, pretending to be a couple. Cue the one-bed situation, tropical chaos, and unexpected sparks. This hilarious enemies-to-lovers rom-com is full of banter, chemistry, and beachy vibes.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
Already living the tropical dream in the Dominican Republic? This book doubles the fun. It’s light, funny, and perfect for poolside laughs or beach reading with a piña colada in hand. You’ll fly through the pages and finish with a big smile.
5. People We Meet on Vacation by Emily Henry – Romance / Travel
✅What it’s about:
Poppy and Alex are total opposites who’ve taken a summer trip together every year—until one trip ended in silence. Now, two years later, Poppy convinces Alex to take one last vacation to fix their friendship… and maybe admit deeper feelings. With flashbacks to past trips and plenty of laughs, this slow-burn romance is witty, emotional, and full of travel vibes.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
It’s literally a book about vacation! Whether you're relaxing on the beaches of Punta Cana or chilling by the pool, this feel-good read will hit just right. Fun, flirty, and packed with wanderlust—it’s the perfect travel companion.
6. The Visual Detox by Marine Tanguy – Mindfulness / Digital Wellness
✅What it’s about:
This 2025 release is a refreshing guide to breaking free from screen overload. Marine Tanguy explores how constant media and social content impact our minds—and offers smart, simple tips to reclaim your focus, reduce stress, and enjoy life offline. It’s a gentle but powerful reminder to be more present.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
What better place to unplug than on a beach in the Dominican Republic? Read it on the plane or by the pool, and you might find yourself reaching for the waves instead of your phone. It’s a great travel companion for anyone craving calm, clarity, and a real break.
7. Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand – Beachy Drama
✅What it’s about:
Known as the queen of beach reads, Elin Hilderbrand’s Swan Song is her final Nantucket novel—and she’s going out in style. A group of friends reunites for one last unforgettable summer filled with secrets, second chances, and heartfelt moments. You don’t need to know her past books to enjoy this sun-soaked, emotional story.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
Reading Swan Song in the Dominican Republic is like enjoying a beach vacation inside your beach vacation. With its coastal setting, breezy drama, and feel-good vibe, this is the perfect poolside or hammock read. Easy to get into, hard to put down.
8. The Catch Me If You Can by Jessica Nabongo – Travel/Photography/Essay Collection
✅What it’s about:
Jessica Nabongo is the first Black woman to visit every country in the world, and this visually stunning book documents her favorite stories and lessons from her travels. Blending memoir, travel writing, and photography, The Catch Me If You Can takes you across continents and cultures while emphasizing the beauty of human connection and personal growth.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
What better place to read a celebration of global exploration than while on your own Caribbean adventure? With gorgeous photos and short essays, this book is perfect to flip through during a lazy afternoon on the beach or to spark your wanderlust between excursions.
9. The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel – Finance / Personal Growth
✅What it’s about:
With over 8 million copies sold, this global bestseller explores how people really think and behave around money. Through 20 short, story-driven chapters, Morgan Housel explains why emotions, habits, and mindset matter more than math when it comes to wealth. It’s smart, relatable, and packed with eye-opening insights that make you rethink what financial success really means.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
Vacation is the best time to reflect, and this book is full of “aha” moments without ever feeling heavy. Each chapter is quick and easy to read between dips in the pool, with takeaways that stick. It’s like having a casual chat with a wise friend—one that leaves you feeling clearer, smarter, and ready to use your money more meaningfully.
10. The Club by Ellery Lloyd – Thriller / Mystery
✅What it’s about:
On a luxurious private island, celebrities gather for the grand opening of an exclusive resort—but the glamor quickly turns deadly. Secrets unravel, tensions rise, and by the end of the weekend, someone ends up murdered. Packed with twists, drama, and shifting points of view, The Club is a fast-paced thriller that dives deep into the dark side of fame.
✅Why it’s perfect for vacation:
Reading this while at your own resort adds an extra layer of fun. It’s like The White Lotus meets Gone Girl—but you’re just here for the sun and drinks! Juicy, addictive, and hard to put down, it’s ideal for poolside reading with a side of gossip and suspense.
Bonus: Tips for the Best Reading Experience on Your Dominican Vacation
Here are some must-know tips for enjoying books in paradise!
✅1. Swap Books at the Resort
Many resorts have book exchange shelves near the towel hut, lobby, or guest services. Leave a book you’ve finished and pick up a new one—perfect if you run out of reading material!
✅2. Get a Kindle
A Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof, lightweight, and glare-free, so you can read by the pool or beach without worry. Plus, it stores thousands of books in one slim device.
✅3. Bring a Reading Light
For night owls, a bendable necklight is perfect for reading on the balcony, in bed, or under the stars without disturbing others.
✅4. Try Audiobooks with Noise-Canceling Headphones
Prefer listening? Noise-canceling headphones let you enjoy audiobooks or peaceful reading without distractions from loud travelers.
✅5. Stay Cool and Protected
Wear sunscreen, find shade, and stay hydrated while reading outdoors. A wide-brim hat and sunglasses help keep you comfortable, too! Read more.
Relax & Enjoy Every Page
Picture this: a book in one hand, a cocktail in the other, waves in the background—now that’s vacation!
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