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In the Summertime
Filled with wit, warmth and sunshine, In the Summertime by Maeve Haran has all the things we love about a seaside England in the sun making us realize you don’t have to go abroad to find romance and adventure.
With her marriage falling apart and her longed-for holiday cancelled, Georgina Greenhills gets an unexpected a holiday in the small seaside town nestling in the beautiful South Downs where she grew up. There is only one she must try and solve the mystery of the valuable antiques disappearing from the remote manor house belonging to an old lady called Maudie.
Gina gathers her childhood friends, scatty Ruth and feisty Eve, to help her. In the middle of a blazing summer they swim, sunbathe and share cocktails as they watch the sun sparkling on the sea, and Gina realizes how much she missed them and how happy she is to be back here in the summertime. Not least because of bumping into Daniel Napier, her shy and awkward teenage dancing partner, now an alarmingly attractive man. Although there is the small problem of his annoying girlfriend.
As Gina tries to solve the mystery at the manor and wonders how to get rid of the girlfriend, an even bigger secret emerges that will take all their skill and experience to resolve.
With her marriage falling apart and her longed-for holiday cancelled, Georgina Greenhills gets an unexpected a holiday in the small seaside town nestling in the beautiful South Downs where she grew up. There is only one she must try and solve the mystery of the valuable antiques disappearing from the remote manor house belonging to an old lady called Maudie.
Gina gathers her childhood friends, scatty Ruth and feisty Eve, to help her. In the middle of a blazing summer they swim, sunbathe and share cocktails as they watch the sun sparkling on the sea, and Gina realizes how much she missed them and how happy she is to be back here in the summertime. Not least because of bumping into Daniel Napier, her shy and awkward teenage dancing partner, now an alarmingly attractive man. Although there is the small problem of his annoying girlfriend.
As Gina tries to solve the mystery at the manor and wonders how to get rid of the girlfriend, an even bigger secret emerges that will take all their skill and experience to resolve.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 8, 2023
14 people are currently reading
176 people want to read
About the author
Maeve Haran
34 books68 followersMaeve Haran is an Oxford Law graduate who worked in journalism and television before writing her first novel, Having It All, a worldwide bestseller translated into 26 languages and shortlisted for
the Romantic Novel of the Year. She wrote twelve more contemporary novels, one work of non-fiction, and two historical novels.
Her new book In the Summertime is due out on June 8.
She has grown-up three children and lives in North London.
the Romantic Novel of the Year. She wrote twelve more contemporary novels, one work of non-fiction, and two historical novels.
Her new book In the Summertime is due out on June 8.
She has grown-up three children and lives in North London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
June 22, 2023
Two tickets to Southdown please! Living in a seaside village myself, I could totally relate to the setting in “In the Summertime” albeit a Northern town rather than the South Downs the story is based in. The author has captured an amazing atmospheric English seaside setting, that instantly transports you to it’s easy going, relaxed and gentle lifestyle and if I could jump on a train this very minute to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, I’d be there in a heartbeat!
Gina the main protagonist is a lovely woman and I took to her instantly, though all of the characters were adorable, even the ones that were portrayed as irksome or meddlesome. Her friendship with Evie was perfect and it made for very entertaining reading, hearing their camaraderie and the learning of the full financial support Evie would go to for her friend.
I liked how there was a couple of small mysteries that were incorporated into the story; Maudie’s interest with a hand car wash service and missing valuables at the manor. With a gentle romantic angle too, this heartwarming novel is perfect for older readers or for fan’s of all ages who enjoy contemporary women’s fiction.
This is a delightful summer read, which can be picked up and put down without losing continuity and even if the weather isn’t so good, make yourself your favourite beverage, get comfortable indoors and enjoy this wonderfully witty, pleasantly romantic and superbly atmospheric book.
#InTheSummertime - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Gina the main protagonist is a lovely woman and I took to her instantly, though all of the characters were adorable, even the ones that were portrayed as irksome or meddlesome. Her friendship with Evie was perfect and it made for very entertaining reading, hearing their camaraderie and the learning of the full financial support Evie would go to for her friend.
I liked how there was a couple of small mysteries that were incorporated into the story; Maudie’s interest with a hand car wash service and missing valuables at the manor. With a gentle romantic angle too, this heartwarming novel is perfect for older readers or for fan’s of all ages who enjoy contemporary women’s fiction.
This is a delightful summer read, which can be picked up and put down without losing continuity and even if the weather isn’t so good, make yourself your favourite beverage, get comfortable indoors and enjoy this wonderfully witty, pleasantly romantic and superbly atmospheric book.
#InTheSummertime - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 20, 2023
If you are looking for a relaxing, heartwarming summer read then look no further. This novel evoked warm feelings of sunshine, the seaside, friendship, and… a hint of mystery.
Eighty-two year old Maudie Tyler lives in an Elizabethan manor house near the Sussex coast. Her niece Lucy believes that valuable objects from Maudie’s home are disappearing. So… she enlists her friend Ruth to ask Gina Greenhills to come to stay with Maudie under the guise of evaluating her many possessions. Gina has been in the antiques business for many years. A business that her husband all but ruined via his gambling addiction.
Gina’s marriage had just broken up, but one got the feeling that it was all for the best. “In The Summertime” was a book about fresh starts and new beginnings. Also, it was a novel about female friendships, and family in all its permutations. Happy families, broken families, blended families etc.
Ruth, a happily married woman who never left the area, Gina, whose marriage has just dissolved, and Evie, a hotshot London lawyer, were childhood friends. This books shows how the three friends reunited after decades apart. A book about ‘coming home’ and fully appreciating the things you scorned in adolescence.
To quote a line from the book, this novel was “just exactly the balm for the soul” that I needed. A perfect beach read set in a very picturesque setting – the South Downs coast. Escapist women’s fiction, laced with humour, that would be fluffy if it not for some serious underlying themes that grounded it nicely.
Eighty-two year old Maudie Tyler lives in an Elizabethan manor house near the Sussex coast. Her niece Lucy believes that valuable objects from Maudie’s home are disappearing. So… she enlists her friend Ruth to ask Gina Greenhills to come to stay with Maudie under the guise of evaluating her many possessions. Gina has been in the antiques business for many years. A business that her husband all but ruined via his gambling addiction.
Gina’s marriage had just broken up, but one got the feeling that it was all for the best. “In The Summertime” was a book about fresh starts and new beginnings. Also, it was a novel about female friendships, and family in all its permutations. Happy families, broken families, blended families etc.
Ruth, a happily married woman who never left the area, Gina, whose marriage has just dissolved, and Evie, a hotshot London lawyer, were childhood friends. This books shows how the three friends reunited after decades apart. A book about ‘coming home’ and fully appreciating the things you scorned in adolescence.
To quote a line from the book, this novel was “just exactly the balm for the soul” that I needed. A perfect beach read set in a very picturesque setting – the South Downs coast. Escapist women’s fiction, laced with humour, that would be fluffy if it not for some serious underlying themes that grounded it nicely.
July 14, 2023
Georgina’s (Gina) life could be better. She has just learnt that her husband has a gambling addiction that has put them in debt, he’s leaving her for someone else and her holiday with her friend Evie has been cancelled. So when Gina is given the opportunity to return to Southdown (the place that she grew up) to find out why valuable antiques belonging to a local resident called Maude who lives in a remote manor house keep disappearing, Gina doesn’t think twice. Can Gina solve the mystery of the disappearing antiques? Is Southdown Gina’s chance to start again?
In The Summertime was what I would describe as the perfect summer read. The front cover just screams summer and sunshine at you before you even open the first page. I really liked the storyline but for me it felt like multiple storylines in one plus a surprise storyline I wasn’t expecting. We have Gina trying to work out why the antiques are going missing and who may be behind it, but in the process she finds herself involved in another mystery which I found very intriguing. At the same time Gina is still trying to process the end of her marriage and despite moving back to her home town she finds that her husband makes a surprise reappearance. I loved how Gina finds the birthday invitation that Daniel sent her to his 21st birthday party and she feels bad that she never replied to it so tries to find him. I think it meant a lot to Daniel when Gina seeks him out to apologise because he still has a big crush on Gina since they were young and were dancing partners but he never told her. Gina and Daniel’s first meeting really made me laugh because Gina doesn’t recognise him and he makes a joke about Gina taking a selfie. It’s clear that there is something between Gina and Daniel but it takes Gina a little more time to realise.
One of my favourite things about the book was the themes of new beginnings and friendship. There is the friendship between Gina, Evie and Ruth who have been a tight group of friends since they were younger. There is also the friendship between Gina and Maude which develops throughout the book as Gina tries to locate the missing antiques and they get to know each other as Gina is staying at the manor. Gina and Maude form a deep bond and Maude is able to open up to Gina about her past and secrets she’s never told anyone. Maude was definitely a character I liked. She was quirky, funny and spoke her mind and the fact she wore a hat to the opening of a car wash made me like her even more. Although the book is about Gina it is also about Evie finding love. As a divorce lawyer Evie has become quite jaded with the concept of marriage and relationships but that changes when she goes to help Gina and meets Stuart who is completely different and it’s through spending time with him that her faith in love is restored
The perfect summer read!
In The Summertime was what I would describe as the perfect summer read. The front cover just screams summer and sunshine at you before you even open the first page. I really liked the storyline but for me it felt like multiple storylines in one plus a surprise storyline I wasn’t expecting. We have Gina trying to work out why the antiques are going missing and who may be behind it, but in the process she finds herself involved in another mystery which I found very intriguing. At the same time Gina is still trying to process the end of her marriage and despite moving back to her home town she finds that her husband makes a surprise reappearance. I loved how Gina finds the birthday invitation that Daniel sent her to his 21st birthday party and she feels bad that she never replied to it so tries to find him. I think it meant a lot to Daniel when Gina seeks him out to apologise because he still has a big crush on Gina since they were young and were dancing partners but he never told her. Gina and Daniel’s first meeting really made me laugh because Gina doesn’t recognise him and he makes a joke about Gina taking a selfie. It’s clear that there is something between Gina and Daniel but it takes Gina a little more time to realise.
One of my favourite things about the book was the themes of new beginnings and friendship. There is the friendship between Gina, Evie and Ruth who have been a tight group of friends since they were younger. There is also the friendship between Gina and Maude which develops throughout the book as Gina tries to locate the missing antiques and they get to know each other as Gina is staying at the manor. Gina and Maude form a deep bond and Maude is able to open up to Gina about her past and secrets she’s never told anyone. Maude was definitely a character I liked. She was quirky, funny and spoke her mind and the fact she wore a hat to the opening of a car wash made me like her even more. Although the book is about Gina it is also about Evie finding love. As a divorce lawyer Evie has become quite jaded with the concept of marriage and relationships but that changes when she goes to help Gina and meets Stuart who is completely different and it’s through spending time with him that her faith in love is restored
The perfect summer read!
August 5, 2025
Suvi on täiel määral käes, kuigi ilmataat seda väga välja näidata ei soovi. Millal siis oleks veel parem aeg lugeda järgmist Varraku ajaviiteromaani kui mitte nüüd? Kui eelmine loetud ajaviiteromaan jäi oma ratingu puhul tugevale kolmele püsima, siis “Suveaeg” on ilus keskmine neli. Juba kaant vaadates aimad, et tegemist saab olema mõnusa suvise kerge lugemisega.
Olen nagu iga teine eestlane ehk kui päike tuleb välja ning on veidi soojakraade, siis tuleb seda nautida, sest kes teab - äkki tuleb juunikuus lumi maha. Samasugused on ka arvatavasti britid ja kogu UK piirkond. Teame ju, et klassikaline ilm Inglismaal on suures laastus vihm ja sombune taevas. Maeve Harani “Suveaeg” maalib aga Inglismaa rannikust hoopiski teistsuguse pildi. Kõrged õhutemperatuurid, lakkamatu päike, jahutav meri ning õhukestes riietes käivad inimesed. Seda lugedes oli küll tunne, et kui see on uus reaalsus seal, siis pole ime, et UK turiste vähemaks on jäänud - kõik on ju neil seal samas saarel olemas. Oma õhustiku loomises on autor teinud head tööd - oli vahepeal lausa tunda kogu seda suvist meeleolu, et paki või asjad kokku ning mine seda nautima.
“Suveaeg” võiks öelda on tõeline suveraamat, inspireerides, mida ise võiks suveperioodil teha. Ei ole tegemist selliste grandioosete mõtetega nagu surfilauaga sõitmine või üheotsa lennupileti ostmine kuhugi uude kohta, vaid sellised igapäevased, lihtsad asjad. Nagu näiteks meres või järves ujumine, garderoobi uuendamine hoopis teisest stiilist rõivastega, skinny-dipping, erinevate muuseumite külastamine, kodus selliste käsitöö või parandamist vajavate asjade tegemine jne. Pani lausa mõtlema, et mida võiks ise ära jõuda teha ja mida juba teen.
Tegelased olid veidi realistlikumad kui eelmises raamatus, aga rõhk sõnal “veidi”. Ikkagi figureeris suuresti täiskasvanud, kes kõiki ja kõike mõistavad. Oli kohati ka stereotüüpseid tegelasi nagu õnnelik pereema, suurlinnas töötas edukas sõbranna, seksikaks muutunud kunagine silmarõõm jne. Samas, mis seekord oli vaheldust pakkuv oli tegelaste vanused. Ei olnud tegemist 20-30ndates olevate noortega vaid ikkagi sellised 40+. Oli tore näha, et ka sellises vanuses võib uuesti alustada, tunda ennast ilusana, lasta lahti mineviku asjadest. Minu jaoks, mis häirima jäi, oli ikkagi see kahtlaselt ülimõistev suhtumine. No kuidagi ei tahtnud mõistus aru saada, et kas päriselt on nii arusaavaid täiskasvanuid.
Kogu üldine süžee oli taaskord väga etteaimatav. Seda isegi kohe algusest peale, mis mõnevõrra tegi kurvaks, sest eelmisel oli vähemalt mingigi periood, kus ei olnud kindel, kuidas see nüüd edasi läheb. Siin oli suht esimest peatükkidega selge, mis toimuma hakkab. Samas, teisest küljest, oli seda turvaline ette teada ning vahepeal ongi tore ja ka vajalik lugeda selliseid raamatuid. Kus hea võidab halva, kõik leiavad oma õnneliku lõpu.
Olen nagu iga teine eestlane ehk kui päike tuleb välja ning on veidi soojakraade, siis tuleb seda nautida, sest kes teab - äkki tuleb juunikuus lumi maha. Samasugused on ka arvatavasti britid ja kogu UK piirkond. Teame ju, et klassikaline ilm Inglismaal on suures laastus vihm ja sombune taevas. Maeve Harani “Suveaeg” maalib aga Inglismaa rannikust hoopiski teistsuguse pildi. Kõrged õhutemperatuurid, lakkamatu päike, jahutav meri ning õhukestes riietes käivad inimesed. Seda lugedes oli küll tunne, et kui see on uus reaalsus seal, siis pole ime, et UK turiste vähemaks on jäänud - kõik on ju neil seal samas saarel olemas. Oma õhustiku loomises on autor teinud head tööd - oli vahepeal lausa tunda kogu seda suvist meeleolu, et paki või asjad kokku ning mine seda nautima.
“Suveaeg” võiks öelda on tõeline suveraamat, inspireerides, mida ise võiks suveperioodil teha. Ei ole tegemist selliste grandioosete mõtetega nagu surfilauaga sõitmine või üheotsa lennupileti ostmine kuhugi uude kohta, vaid sellised igapäevased, lihtsad asjad. Nagu näiteks meres või järves ujumine, garderoobi uuendamine hoopis teisest stiilist rõivastega, skinny-dipping, erinevate muuseumite külastamine, kodus selliste käsitöö või parandamist vajavate asjade tegemine jne. Pani lausa mõtlema, et mida võiks ise ära jõuda teha ja mida juba teen.
Tegelased olid veidi realistlikumad kui eelmises raamatus, aga rõhk sõnal “veidi”. Ikkagi figureeris suuresti täiskasvanud, kes kõiki ja kõike mõistavad. Oli kohati ka stereotüüpseid tegelasi nagu õnnelik pereema, suurlinnas töötas edukas sõbranna, seksikaks muutunud kunagine silmarõõm jne. Samas, mis seekord oli vaheldust pakkuv oli tegelaste vanused. Ei olnud tegemist 20-30ndates olevate noortega vaid ikkagi sellised 40+. Oli tore näha, et ka sellises vanuses võib uuesti alustada, tunda ennast ilusana, lasta lahti mineviku asjadest. Minu jaoks, mis häirima jäi, oli ikkagi see kahtlaselt ülimõistev suhtumine. No kuidagi ei tahtnud mõistus aru saada, et kas päriselt on nii arusaavaid täiskasvanuid.
Kogu üldine süžee oli taaskord väga etteaimatav. Seda isegi kohe algusest peale, mis mõnevõrra tegi kurvaks, sest eelmisel oli vähemalt mingigi periood, kus ei olnud kindel, kuidas see nüüd edasi läheb. Siin oli suht esimest peatükkidega selge, mis toimuma hakkab. Samas, teisest küljest, oli seda turvaline ette teada ning vahepeal ongi tore ja ka vajalik lugeda selliseid raamatuid. Kus hea võidab halva, kõik leiavad oma õnneliku lõpu.
June 13, 2023
With her marriage over and her holiday plans in disarray, antiques dealer Georgina is at a loose end when her old schoolchum Ruth gets in touch with a proposition for her. Will she go and live at Rookery Manor where the Honourable Maud Tyler needs help cataloguing her treasures?
And so Gina finds herself back in the South Downs seaside town where she grew up – but there is more to the Honourable Maud than meets the eye. Why is she so interested in the fate of young Syrian refugee, Jasmin? Just where are her missing treasures disappearing, to? Will her awful great-niece and husband manage to pack her off to an old folk’s home so they can take over the manor? Gina has more to do than just catalogue antiques – she has a mystery to solve!
With an intriguing plot underpinning it, and a host of colourful characters getting up to all sorts of mischief, this story of friendship and romance offers so many strands that it is impossible not to keep turning the pages. The theme of friendship is thoroughly explored – that of old friendships and new ones, of friendships between the generations and between the sexes.
The theme of love, loss and betrayal is also explored through both Gina and Maud’s stories. Can either woman put the past behind them and find happiness in the future once more?
Finally, there is the more sinister theme of people trafficking as evinced by Jasmin’s story. This adds an element of danger to the rolling joviality of the narrative, and adds a depth to the story that lifts it from a typical summer beach story to a more thoughtful read.
Some coincidences in the story are a bit of a stretch of credibility, the villains in the piece are pretty two-dimensional, and some of the adventures our heroines face veer into Famous Five territory, with lashings of rose wine replacing the gingerbeer!
But these are minor quibbles in a story that is overall peopled with really strong, three-dimensional and sympathetic characters. Friends Gina, Eve and Ruth share the kind of friendship we’d all love to find and hold onto, and the men who come into their lives more than live up to expectations. We all need a hero or two! And maybe we all need a Maudie, too – what a great character she is.
Take this book to the beach today – you’ll be glued to your lounger till long after the sun goes down!
And so Gina finds herself back in the South Downs seaside town where she grew up – but there is more to the Honourable Maud than meets the eye. Why is she so interested in the fate of young Syrian refugee, Jasmin? Just where are her missing treasures disappearing, to? Will her awful great-niece and husband manage to pack her off to an old folk’s home so they can take over the manor? Gina has more to do than just catalogue antiques – she has a mystery to solve!
With an intriguing plot underpinning it, and a host of colourful characters getting up to all sorts of mischief, this story of friendship and romance offers so many strands that it is impossible not to keep turning the pages. The theme of friendship is thoroughly explored – that of old friendships and new ones, of friendships between the generations and between the sexes.
The theme of love, loss and betrayal is also explored through both Gina and Maud’s stories. Can either woman put the past behind them and find happiness in the future once more?
Finally, there is the more sinister theme of people trafficking as evinced by Jasmin’s story. This adds an element of danger to the rolling joviality of the narrative, and adds a depth to the story that lifts it from a typical summer beach story to a more thoughtful read.
Some coincidences in the story are a bit of a stretch of credibility, the villains in the piece are pretty two-dimensional, and some of the adventures our heroines face veer into Famous Five territory, with lashings of rose wine replacing the gingerbeer!
But these are minor quibbles in a story that is overall peopled with really strong, three-dimensional and sympathetic characters. Friends Gina, Eve and Ruth share the kind of friendship we’d all love to find and hold onto, and the men who come into their lives more than live up to expectations. We all need a hero or two! And maybe we all need a Maudie, too – what a great character she is.
Take this book to the beach today – you’ll be glued to your lounger till long after the sun goes down!
October 22, 2023
Maeve Haran’s In The Summertime is a fun, engaging and highly entertaining tale about starting over, the power of friendship and living life to the full.
Nothing seems to be going right for Georgina lately. Her marriage is disintegrating and is slowly falling apart and her longed-for holiday has just been cancelled. It seems like somebody has it in for Georgina until she gets an unexpected offer that puts a smile on her face and a spring in her step: a holiday in the small seaside town she grew up in in the South Downs. Georgina might have a mystery to solve, but she’s looking forward to getting away from it all with her two friends, Ruth and Eve, who are also in desperate need of some R&R.
The three of them are soon having the time of their lives as they swim, sunbathe and imbibe many a delicious cocktail. Being back in the South Downs also means bumping into former dancing partner Daniel, who has matured into a devastatingly attractive man. It’s just a shame that he has a girlfriend who puts paid to any hope Georgina had of getting to know him better. With a mystery to solve and an annoying girlfriend to get rid of, Georgina certainly has her hands full and as shocking secrets are revealed it becomes abundantly clear that this summer is going to be one which will prove impossible to forget…
Maeve Haran’s In The Summertime is such a delight. Witty, uplifting and feel-good, In The Summertime is sprinkled with plenty of humour, intrigue and pathos to keep readers eagerly turning the pages. A terrific tale readers will want to read in one irresistible sitting, Maeve Haran’s In The Summertime makes for perfect holiday reading – don’t miss it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nothing seems to be going right for Georgina lately. Her marriage is disintegrating and is slowly falling apart and her longed-for holiday has just been cancelled. It seems like somebody has it in for Georgina until she gets an unexpected offer that puts a smile on her face and a spring in her step: a holiday in the small seaside town she grew up in in the South Downs. Georgina might have a mystery to solve, but she’s looking forward to getting away from it all with her two friends, Ruth and Eve, who are also in desperate need of some R&R.
The three of them are soon having the time of their lives as they swim, sunbathe and imbibe many a delicious cocktail. Being back in the South Downs also means bumping into former dancing partner Daniel, who has matured into a devastatingly attractive man. It’s just a shame that he has a girlfriend who puts paid to any hope Georgina had of getting to know him better. With a mystery to solve and an annoying girlfriend to get rid of, Georgina certainly has her hands full and as shocking secrets are revealed it becomes abundantly clear that this summer is going to be one which will prove impossible to forget…
Maeve Haran’s In The Summertime is such a delight. Witty, uplifting and feel-good, In The Summertime is sprinkled with plenty of humour, intrigue and pathos to keep readers eagerly turning the pages. A terrific tale readers will want to read in one irresistible sitting, Maeve Haran’s In The Summertime makes for perfect holiday reading – don’t miss it!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 20, 2023
This is your perfect summer/beach read. I actually read this in the garden (in the sun) whilst recovering from a bout of illness - and it was a wonderful pick me up - just what I needed.
Gina is not having a great time. Her marriage is failing, her business is running out of money and to top everything off, her dream summer getaway just got cancelled.
When her old school friend invites her back home to solve the mystery of Maud's missing antiques, she can't resist the pull of home and the chance to have some nostalgic fun with the girls....and who knows what else might turn up....
I absolutely fell in love with the girls and their relationship. It was lovely to see them reminisce together and just let go and have fun in the sun.
The setting was just beautiful! I'm not a big fan of beach holidays abroad, so this all-English landscape really spoke to me and the descriptions made me feel as though I was there with the girls.
I thought the added mystery in this book made it a unique summer read. Not all romance and sun, not all pure thriller or mystery - but a really nice combination of the two - even quite thought-provoking and sinister in places.
I loved this mix of two of my favourite genres and think it worked really well here.
Obviously I have to mention the love interest and how we could not have done without this. This story was beautifully woven into the whole and I loved how this developed through to the end.
I loved this so much. Packed with feel-good friendships, adventure and fun, what more could you ask for. Can't wait to explore more by this author.
Gina is not having a great time. Her marriage is failing, her business is running out of money and to top everything off, her dream summer getaway just got cancelled.
When her old school friend invites her back home to solve the mystery of Maud's missing antiques, she can't resist the pull of home and the chance to have some nostalgic fun with the girls....and who knows what else might turn up....
I absolutely fell in love with the girls and their relationship. It was lovely to see them reminisce together and just let go and have fun in the sun.
The setting was just beautiful! I'm not a big fan of beach holidays abroad, so this all-English landscape really spoke to me and the descriptions made me feel as though I was there with the girls.
I thought the added mystery in this book made it a unique summer read. Not all romance and sun, not all pure thriller or mystery - but a really nice combination of the two - even quite thought-provoking and sinister in places.
I loved this mix of two of my favourite genres and think it worked really well here.
Obviously I have to mention the love interest and how we could not have done without this. This story was beautifully woven into the whole and I loved how this developed through to the end.
I loved this so much. Packed with feel-good friendships, adventure and fun, what more could you ask for. Can't wait to explore more by this author.
June 21, 2023
Gina is trying to find a way to get her and her husband Mark out of a mountain of debt caused by his gambling addiction. Their antiques valuation business is teetering on the edge as he has taken so much money out of it.
Then, after 28 years of marriage and two daughters, he ups and leaves. He tells Gina he has met someone else and wants a divorce.
Gina needs to get away and takes up a job offer to go back to the seaside town where she grew up, but couldn’t wait to leave, to live in an old manor with Maudie. Maudie is an elderly lady, but still has plenty of get up and go, and value her antiques. And also keep a close eye on things as small items appear to be disappearing.
Maisie’s daughter Rosa and her husband Awful Ambrose are after the manor but Maudie is not ready to move out.
Absolutely delightful story! Not just a summer fiction rom com type book, this has so much more from looking back on life and wondering about paths not taken to friendships to new beginnings. I loved Gina and had to giggle at the New World cooker her mum had - as mine had the same! I’d like to think we are quite similar but there is no way my knees could cope with the paddle boarding she seemed to find quite easy! And I’m not sure I’d be up for the naked swimming ….
Overall a brilliant summer read.
Huge thanks to Anne at Random Things Tours for my spot on the blog tour and my gorgeous copy of the book which will be kept with my original copy of Having it All!
Then, after 28 years of marriage and two daughters, he ups and leaves. He tells Gina he has met someone else and wants a divorce.
Gina needs to get away and takes up a job offer to go back to the seaside town where she grew up, but couldn’t wait to leave, to live in an old manor with Maudie. Maudie is an elderly lady, but still has plenty of get up and go, and value her antiques. And also keep a close eye on things as small items appear to be disappearing.
Maisie’s daughter Rosa and her husband Awful Ambrose are after the manor but Maudie is not ready to move out.
Absolutely delightful story! Not just a summer fiction rom com type book, this has so much more from looking back on life and wondering about paths not taken to friendships to new beginnings. I loved Gina and had to giggle at the New World cooker her mum had - as mine had the same! I’d like to think we are quite similar but there is no way my knees could cope with the paddle boarding she seemed to find quite easy! And I’m not sure I’d be up for the naked swimming ….
Overall a brilliant summer read.
Huge thanks to Anne at Random Things Tours for my spot on the blog tour and my gorgeous copy of the book which will be kept with my original copy of Having it All!
June 26, 2023
If you want to imagine warm summer evenings in a small seaside town, where friendships and love are rekindled then this is the book for you.
In The Summertime is one of those lovely stories to read for a few hours, or a couple of days over a lazy bank holiday weekend when you have to lose yourself in the story of Gina and her friends as she aims to resolve what has happened to The Honourable Maudie's antiques.
This is a story that also touches on the issues of modern slavery , which is cleverly intertwined with what is evolving at The Manor as Gina and Evie resolve the mystery and make an old lady very happy. The characters are described in such a way as to make you feel as though you know them personally and consequently you experience the highs and lows with them as the story progresses.
The contrast between the different lives of Gina and her friends is poignantly used to show how everyone can bring something unique to a friendship group for the benefit of all. This is the perfect book for your holiday, or to enjoy when you just want to escape for some "Me " time.
In The Summertime is one of those lovely stories to read for a few hours, or a couple of days over a lazy bank holiday weekend when you have to lose yourself in the story of Gina and her friends as she aims to resolve what has happened to The Honourable Maudie's antiques.
This is a story that also touches on the issues of modern slavery , which is cleverly intertwined with what is evolving at The Manor as Gina and Evie resolve the mystery and make an old lady very happy. The characters are described in such a way as to make you feel as though you know them personally and consequently you experience the highs and lows with them as the story progresses.
The contrast between the different lives of Gina and her friends is poignantly used to show how everyone can bring something unique to a friendship group for the benefit of all. This is the perfect book for your holiday, or to enjoy when you just want to escape for some "Me " time.
June 15, 2023
Gina believes everything comes in 3 especially bad luck. Gina and her husband, Mark have an antique business in London, their girls are grown up and left home now. Nothing is going right for Gina at the minute, even the holiday, Evie and her were going on has been cancelled. Gina has a phone call from Ruthie, an old school from from where she grew up, asking her for a bit of help. Gina decides to take Ruthie up on the job offer and travels to the small seaside town. Gina arrives at Manor House, there she meets Maudie the own of the house and they hit it off at once. Gina starts to valve the antiques, along with taking photos, she speaks to Mrs B and the thing that have went missing.
It's a story of friendship both new and old, family, love and betrayal. This is a book that will kept you guessing and laughing. Pop it in your holiday bag, you'll love it.
It's a story of friendship both new and old, family, love and betrayal. This is a book that will kept you guessing and laughing. Pop it in your holiday bag, you'll love it.
September 24, 2025
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
The blurb for this book includes an American spelling despite the English setting, and this is used many times in the novel, affecting the atmosphere. I thought there were some odd phrases such as Lucy treasuring her husky dog because it's eyes matches her cushions! There was also a lack of realism at times - I'm clearly the same age as Gina's parents and I can assure I did not use a pot under the bed, it is not typical of my generation. I disliked the narrative style, without any hint such as anew chapter a scene would end and I'd be reading about someone else.
There were several plotlines, and clearly other readers enjoyed the book, but I didn't feel the delivery of the stories and romances was particularly polished.
The blurb for this book includes an American spelling despite the English setting, and this is used many times in the novel, affecting the atmosphere. I thought there were some odd phrases such as Lucy treasuring her husky dog because it's eyes matches her cushions! There was also a lack of realism at times - I'm clearly the same age as Gina's parents and I can assure I did not use a pot under the bed, it is not typical of my generation. I disliked the narrative style, without any hint such as anew chapter a scene would end and I'd be reading about someone else.
There were several plotlines, and clearly other readers enjoyed the book, but I didn't feel the delivery of the stories and romances was particularly polished.
May 14, 2023
Another great read from Maeve Haran!
Perfect summertime vibes, set in a picturesque English traditional seaside town,childhood home of Gina and Evie, we meet a plethora of characters and and learn about valuable antiques, the importance of friendship, family dynamics, having roots a place to call home,secrets from the past and second chances!
A great story that weaves several storylines into one, culminating into the most wonderful ending that leaves you wanting more!
A sequel would be fantastic to continue the lives of all the rich and varied characters.
A great read that I would highly recommend
Thank you netgalley fir this early read
Perfect summertime vibes, set in a picturesque English traditional seaside town,childhood home of Gina and Evie, we meet a plethora of characters and and learn about valuable antiques, the importance of friendship, family dynamics, having roots a place to call home,secrets from the past and second chances!
A great story that weaves several storylines into one, culminating into the most wonderful ending that leaves you wanting more!
A sequel would be fantastic to continue the lives of all the rich and varied characters.
A great read that I would highly recommend
Thank you netgalley fir this early read
June 12, 2023
This is my first time reading a book by Maeve Haran and it was such a sweet and perfect summer read.
Second chances, new friendships and discovery were all featured in the story and it was such a delightful read.
Gina's character really went through so much and I loved her character development. She was such a strong and determined woman and I loved the relationship between her and Maudie. Their friendship was so sweet and Maudie really was such a character who was such a good addition to the story.
I loved this story and would recommend it to anyone and I look forward to reading more from Maeve soon.
Second chances, new friendships and discovery were all featured in the story and it was such a delightful read.
Gina's character really went through so much and I loved her character development. She was such a strong and determined woman and I loved the relationship between her and Maudie. Their friendship was so sweet and Maudie really was such a character who was such a good addition to the story.
I loved this story and would recommend it to anyone and I look forward to reading more from Maeve soon.
September 1, 2024
Too many things were repeated too many times, like the book had no editor (for example, wearing clothes like a garbage bag, at least 5 times). The references in almost every chapter to some movie or actor/actress..
Above all, translation to Latvian was so weird that I had to look up is translator a real person (I am sorry). Names of people were mixed, several choice of words made no sense or were outdated, some sentences I had to re-read several times.
I don’t feel good to judge a book as I haven’t written any. However I am glad this one over (kept reading because of Daniel) and I can get to the next one. Every book has its reader and obviously this kind of summer reads are not for me.
Above all, translation to Latvian was so weird that I had to look up is translator a real person (I am sorry). Names of people were mixed, several choice of words made no sense or were outdated, some sentences I had to re-read several times.
I don’t feel good to judge a book as I haven’t written any. However I am glad this one over (kept reading because of Daniel) and I can get to the next one. Every book has its reader and obviously this kind of summer reads are not for me.
June 16, 2023
In The Summertime by Maeve Haran.
With her marriage falling apart and her longed-for holiday cancelled, Georgina Greenhills gets an unexpected offer: a holiday in the small seaside town nestling in the beautiful South Downs where she grew up. There is only one catch: she must try and solve the mystery of the valuable antiques disappearing from the remote manor house belonging to an old lady called Maudie.
I did enjoy this book. Refreshing read. I loved Gina scatty Ruth and feisty Eve. I do hope there is more to come. I would love to see a book 2. 5*.
With her marriage falling apart and her longed-for holiday cancelled, Georgina Greenhills gets an unexpected offer: a holiday in the small seaside town nestling in the beautiful South Downs where she grew up. There is only one catch: she must try and solve the mystery of the valuable antiques disappearing from the remote manor house belonging to an old lady called Maudie.
I did enjoy this book. Refreshing read. I loved Gina scatty Ruth and feisty Eve. I do hope there is more to come. I would love to see a book 2. 5*.
July 7, 2023
I was disappointed by this book. I picked it up as a mystery beach read (while in the South Downs) and found a haphazard and weak story.
The constant references to mystery series and prophesying take you out of the experience by directing you on what to think instead being left to come to your own conclusions. It seemed like the reader is not trusted to pick up on the blatant hints.
I fished the book almost out of spite more than resolution.
P.S. it needs another round of editing, specifically quotation marks and POV.
The constant references to mystery series and prophesying take you out of the experience by directing you on what to think instead being left to come to your own conclusions. It seemed like the reader is not trusted to pick up on the blatant hints.
I fished the book almost out of spite more than resolution.
P.S. it needs another round of editing, specifically quotation marks and POV.
March 8, 2024
I actually liked this book. It was a nice feel good, easy to read story. It lost a star because the editing was a bit of a let down. Several times I flicked back through the pages because something was said on one page then 'forgotten' several pages later. Eg: catching a taxi then driving themselves home? This just irritates me. I'll look out for other books by this author though, when Im in the mood for easy reading.
July 18, 2025
This was a lovely Summer read. I loved Maudie, Jasmine and Evie and the villains were portrayed well too. I would have given it a higher rating apart from a couple of things. I don't believe a UK visa application for a refugee can be sorted out in one day, no matter how good your lawyer is. I don't like cheating, but it seemed as though because Daniel's girlfriend was obnoxious it was ok for him to dump her with no warning because everyone preferred Gina.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 29, 2023
It was definitely a fun, light-hearted read - the plot was unique, and the characters' personality at the start compared to the ending was a perfect example of character development. The romance was really sweet in a cute, subtle way. I really liked this book and would recommend it for a summer read any day.
June 19, 2025
This was a book full of great chatacters and love affairs of older generations that were absolutely lovely. Even though the storyline with Jasmin was a bit expected, I loved the book overall because of the good feel vibe I was getting from both the place but also the good that the characters represented.
November 3, 2023
A pleasant, feel-good tale. I loved the location & the characters were appealing. I wish I could have gone swimming with them all, it sounded ideal. So many little places, particularly at the seaside, have found ways to prosper - it's great to see.
May 24, 2025
A great feel-good read! I'm a big trinket girly so I REALLY REALLY would love to live in a house like Maudie's. What a wonderful lady.
10/10! A bit difficult to start seeing as it is written in English slang, but really lovely once you get in the middle of it.
10/10! A bit difficult to start seeing as it is written in English slang, but really lovely once you get in the middle of it.
June 8, 2023
This is my first read by this author but it wont be my last.
It was a quick, easy and adorable read with a perfect setting that really got me in the mood for summer, it was described so vividly that I felt I was in the picturesque landscapes.
The writing was good and kept me engaged all the way through, the storyline was captivating and the characters were well developed.
I really enjoyed it
It was a quick, easy and adorable read with a perfect setting that really got me in the mood for summer, it was described so vividly that I felt I was in the picturesque landscapes.
The writing was good and kept me engaged all the way through, the storyline was captivating and the characters were well developed.
I really enjoyed it
August 14, 2023
Another great easy read by Haran
November 13, 2023
A feel good novel about summertime and being near the beach. Set in the south of England.
January 5, 2024
2.5** Unfortunately I just didn’t love this book. There were some good parts, but I felt like there were maybe too many storyline’s? I just felt liked it dragged on a bit.
February 24, 2024
Really enjoyed this one. Likeable characters. Bit of intrigue.
February 26, 2024
Such a fun lighthearted read.
May 27, 2024
This was an ok read. It got a bit slow and obvious towards the end but I finished it!
June 20, 2024
Famous Five style book but for adults, romance for the over 50’s interesting but too easy a story from problems solved effortlessly to all the nasty characters getting their just comeuppance .
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