That Certain Summer

by Mary Verdick

"That Certain Summer" tells the story of Sally Grimes, a feisty girl from Iowa, who gets a dream job writing the life story of famous actress, Diane Fenwick. She moves to a Gatsbyesque community in Connecticut and meets the actress's adorable twins, Meagan and Alec, and Rufus, a special dog, who is more intuitive than a lot of humans. She also falls in love with Ricardo, the handsome hunk next door, who is an honest-to-god count and a Princeton graduate, but is working as a handyman fof the reclusive millionaire Morley-Watts, who suspects Diane is hiding something he desperately wants. What is Ricardo's connection to Diane, and why is Sally suddenly plunged into a situation she has no control over?

172 pages, Hardcover

First published January 12, 2011

About the author

Mary Verdick is an ex-teacher and editor who taught English and other subjects in a middle school for 5 years and worked as an editor at Weekly Reader for over 16 years. The author of many children’s books and several adult novels she was educated at the University of Colorado and Southern Conn. State University and holds Bachelor and Master’s degrees in English. Raised in Colorado she now lives in Middletown, Connecticut near her son and grandchildren and is busy at work on another novel.

Mary Verdick is the author of several adult novels and numerous short stories and books for children. She is an eclectic reader and Amazon Reviewer. She likes everyone from Nicholas Sparks, Danielle Steele, P. D. James, and Pat Conroy to lots of history and biography.


Mary’s books “Indian Time,” “Don’t Let the Good Life Pass You By,” “Maybe This Time”, and "As Long As He Needs Me" are available for order at thousands of bookstores worldwide.


Her latest release (available THIS FALL), a novel called “That Certain Summer”is available for order at thousands of book stores worldwide and online through: See Orders. http://maryverdick.com/ShoppingCart.html

These books can be bought at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Buy.com and Books A Million

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sally Grimes receives a once in a lifetime opportunity. She gets the chance to write Diane Fenwick’s memoir. Diane was a famous actress. Diane lives out in the quiet country side in Connecticut. This is where Sally will be staying, while she writes Diane’s story. Sally is joined by Diane’s twin children, Alec and Megan. Sally may not have romance in her plans but she just might have to pencil it in, when she meets the handsome Ricardo. Ricardo works for Mr. Morley-Watts as his gardener.

That Certain Summer is a fun, light-hearted, summer read. The characters in this book are like visiting with good friends. While I must admit that I am not a Gatsby fan, I did get the Gatsby feel from this book. Diane was an intriguing character. Her twin children, Megan and Alec were charming but a bit spoiled at times. I liked Mr. Morley-Watts, the little of him that I got to know. Ricardo was witty, charming, good looking, smart and a guy that I could see Sally falling for. That Certain Summer is a delightful book.

[Jo-Anne Vandermeulen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“That Certain Summer” – A Recommended Yummy Beach Book

As a reader and author, Mary Verdick is an inspiration for us all. Not only is she one of Amazon’s top reviewers; but also, Verdick has produced another top notch romance, adding to her many published 5-star previous novels.

“That Certain Summer” has the exact ingredients for a perfect suspense/romance novel.

The recipe?

“That Certain Summer” carries a plausible story-line, carefully building suspense (until the very end) where the surprising plot twists and turns into a shocking climax. This story is intriguing, filled with emotions, includes likable characters (even a lovable dog), and is an enjoyable read... with carefully constructed clues to solve the final mystery.

No doubt, a tasty full coarse meal.

If you’re searching for a great beach book that will satisfy your appetite... I recommend “That Certain Summer” by Mary Verdick to be on the top of your list.