Fan Favorites – Sundog staffers share the top 10 bestsellers of all time

By Michelle Hayes Uhlfelder

Sundog Books has been a Seaside staple for over three decades, standing in the town center as a meeting place for locals, a treasure trove for visitors and a home for stories that reflect the charm of the Gulf Coast. While Sundog has seen countless books pass through its doors, some titles have found a special place in the hearts of readers, consistently flying off the shelves year after year.

We turned to Bryan Beasley, who has been with the store for over 25 years and has an encyclopedic knowledge of our inventory, to pull together the top 10 bestsellers of all time. 

“As Senior Book Buyer, I review virtually every book we sell, from new releases to timeless backlist favorites,” Bryan says. “After so many years, I’ve seen trends come and go, but what remains constant is how much people love discovering new stories and connecting with the written word. It’s still thrilling to see a book resonate so strongly with readers.”

The Top 10 Bestsellers of All Time

1. “The Rise and Decline of the Redneck Riviera” by Harvey H. Jackson III
   Our all-time bestseller, this local history gem dives into the cultural evolution of the Gulf Coast’s unique identity. Combining wit, insight and deep historical knowledge, Jackson’s work resonates with locals and visitors alike who want to understand the story of the Redneck Riviera.
2. “Where the Crawdads Sing” by Delia Owens
   This modern classic has captivated readers with its blend of mystery, romance and a poignant connection to the natural world. Set in the marshes of North Carolina, it’s no wonder this book found a home with Seaside readers drawn to its coastal spirit.
3. “The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” by Taylor Jenkins Reid
   A glamorous, heart-wrenching dive into old Hollywood, Reid’s novel has been a favorite for book clubs and beachside readers, combining page-turning drama with emotional depth.
4. “The 30A Book” by George Wickey
   A celebration of the 30A lifestyle, this book captures the charm, creativity and coastal beauty that defines life along our stretch of the Gulf. It’s no surprise this is the most popular children’s book in Sundog’s history.
5. “It Ends with Us” by Colleen Hoover
   Hoover’s powerful exploration of love, resilience, and personal strength has struck a chord with readers worldwide — including Sundog readers.
6. “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides
   A psychological thriller that keeps readers guessing, this mystery has become a standout bestseller, drawing in fans of clever, gripping storytelling.
7. “The People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry
   Henry’s witty and romantic stories are always a hit, and this delightful tale of friendship and love is no exception.
8. “Verity” by Colleen Hoover
   Another Hoover favorite, this dark, twisty story has kept readers on edge and coming back for more.
9. “Beach Read” by Emily Henry
   Blending humor, romance and poignant moments, Henry’s novel has become a go-to for Sundog shoppers looking for a light yet meaningful read.
10. “The Gulf: The Making of an American Sea” by Jack Davis
    This Pulitzer Prize-winning exploration of the Gulf’s ecological and cultural significance feels right at home in Seaside. Davis even worked on parts of this masterpiece while a resident artist at Escape to Create, which did a popular special event with him last year in partnership with the non-profit Florida House.

Looking Back and Ahead

“Sundog has always been a reflection of the readers who walk through our doors,” says Linda White, owner of Sundog Books. “These top titles tell the story of who we are as a community.”

While the numbers tell part of the story, they also reflect the heart of Sundog: a place where books and the people who love them come together. As Bryan puts it, “These bestsellers are the connections we’ve made with our readers over the years. Seeing someone leave the store with a book they’re excited about never gets old.”

Other perennial favorites include “Gift from the Sea” by Anne Morrow Lindbergh, “Seaside” by Steven Brooke, and “A Gentleman in Moscow” by Amor Towles. 

“Every book has a story,” Linda adds, “and these top titles remind us why we’ve been here for nearly 40 years — to share them.”

So, whether you’re visiting Sundog for the first time or a longtime reader revisiting a classic, we hope you’ll stop by to browse our shelves in person or explore our online shop to support our independent bookstore all year long.