Sun, Sand, and Suspense: Fun Florida-Themed Fiction for Your Next Adventure

Mar 17

3 min read

There’s something special about reading a book set in the place you’re visiting—it makes the sights, sounds, and stories come alive in a whole new way. Whether you're road-tripping through the Keys, lounging on a Gulf Coast beach, or exploring the wild Everglades, the right book (or audiobook) can add to the magic of your Florida adventure. From quirky crime capers to breezy beach reads, these Florida-themed fiction books capture the Sunshine State’s charm, mystery, and humor—making them the perfect travel companions for your next trip.

If you love the feel of a printed book, you're definitely not alone! But when it comes to enjoying a good story while in the car, an Audible subscription does the trick. Imagine having all those Florida-themed books at your fingertips with just a tap—it's like having your own personal library right in your pocket! Plus, a great narrator can really enhance the experience and make your journey more enjoyable. I recommend listening to a sample before you download the audiobook to make sure the narrator's style matches what you like.

Another on-demand service worth exploring is Kindle Unlimited. Kindle Unlimited is a subscription service from Amazon that gives unlimited access to a vast library of ebooks, audiobooks, and select digital magazines. For a flat monthly fee, you can read as many books as you want from the Kindle Unlimited catalog, which includes bestsellers and books across various genres.

Below are some Florida-themed stories available in print, on Audible, or through Kindle Unlimited. Clicking the images will quickly take you to Amazon where you can explore the book's details in more depth.

John Grisham’s Camino Island series offers a blend of mystery, crime, and literary intrigue set against a Florida backdrop. The three book series follows Bruce Cable, a charismatic and somewhat shady bookseller on Camino Island, whose rare bookshop serves as the hub for high-stakes literary crimes, hidden secrets, and unexpected twists. From stolen manuscripts to deadly investigations, each book delivers a mix of suspense and beach-town charm, making it a perfect read (or listen) for anyone who loves a smart, entertaining thriller with a Florida vibe.

Carl Hiaasen’s Bad Monkey is a wild, darkly comedic crime novel packed with the quirky characters and offbeat Florida charm that define his work. The story follows a disgraced Key West detective who stumbles upon a severed arm that leads him into a tangled web of corruption, greed, and absurdity stretching from South Florida to the Bahamas. With Hiaasen’s signature wit, environmental themes, and a rogue monkey adding to the chaos, Bad Monkey is an entertaining, fast-paced read perfect for those who enjoy crime fiction with a side of satire.

Carl Hiaasen’s Hoot is an exciting, fast-paced eco-adventure ideal for all readers, particularly those in 5th-8th grade. The story centers on Roy Eberhardt, a newcomer to Florida, who becomes involved in a secret mission to protect a group of endangered burrowing owls from a dubious land development project. During his journey, he joins forces with a tough girl named Beatrice and her stepbrother, Mullet Fingers, who is known for running barefoot. Hoot combines mystery, activism, and adventure in an entertaining manner.

Chanel Cleeton’s The Last Train to Key West is a gripping historical novel that weaves together the stories of three women whose lives intersect in unexpected ways during the devastating 1935 Labor Day hurricane. Set against the backdrop of the Florida Keys, the book is filled with romance, intrigue, and rich historical detail, offering a vivid glimpse into a fascinating yet treacherous moment in Florida’s past. With a mix of suspense, resilience, and heartfelt emotion, The Last Train to Key West is a captivating read that transports you to the stormy shores of the Sunshine State.

Deborah Brown’s Crazy in Paradise series is a fun, fast-paced mix of mystery, humor, and Florida charm. Set in the quirky beach town of Tarpon Cove, the series follows Madison Westin, a strong-willed, quick-witted woman who finds herself tangled up in crime, chaos, and a cast of eccentric characters after inheriting her aunt’s beachfront estate. With plenty of action, romance, and laugh-out-loud moments, this lighthearted mystery series is perfect for fans of cozy whodunits with a tropical twist. This series includes 33 books and is a great choice for Kindle Unlimited users.

We hope these recommendations sprinkle a bit of magic into your travels, blending relaxation with tales that will keep you captivated. So pack your bags, grab your literary companions, and get ready to experience Florida through the words of a storyteller! 📚