Two Weeks of Summer

by Katherine Tirado-Ryen

Kim Kincaid can't catch a break. She has a thankless job at a law office, a nasty co-worker, and a boyfriend allergic to genuine commitment. Meanwhile, her older sister, Dena, skates through life with a perfect husband, a perfect job, even a perfect daughter. Kim grits her teeth through their every phone call, counting the minutes until she can disappear into a drink or TV (preferably both). She doesn't recall agreeing to babysit her niece. She only remembers Dena bragging about yet another romantic getaway.

When Dena arrives—daughter and designer suitcases in hand—Kim can't admit her mistake. Her sister would only notch her scorecard with the latest blunder.

Kim won't let that happen. After all, two weeks isn't that long. How hard could it be?

With a fast-paced plot and a tender heart, "Two Weeks of Summer" chronicles one woman's journey to becoming the woman she always wanted to be—discovering along the way that family bonds run deeper than she ever thought possible. What will Kim ultimately decide? Stay in the life she's built? Or step outside her comfort zone into an uncertain future?

Delve into "Two Weeks of Summer"—a recommended book by Kirkus Reviews, BookLife, Readers' Favorite, & Indies Today!

264 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 29, 2014

About the author

Katherine Tirado-Ryen is a Puerto Rican author of emotionally resonant fiction who writes about people at crossroads—when the life they planned no longer fits, and they’re brave enough to ask what comes next. Her novels explore identity, family, and the quiet courage it takes to begin again, following characters through emotional turning points that challenge who they are and who they want to become.

Her stand-alone novels include Forgetting Me (a BookLife Editor’s Pick), Two Weeks of Summer (a Kirkus “Get It Now” title and Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award semi-finalist), and The Secrets Inside (an Indies Today semi-finalist).

Writing became her lifeline after her son was born three months early, a season that led her back to the page and to a deeper understanding of fear, hope, and resilience. Her nonfiction work has appeared in Pregnancy & Newborn, ¡Hola Arkansas!, the Northwest Arkansas Times, and for Ohio’s WIC program and Bureau for Children with Medical Handicaps.

She is currently working on a sweeping epic fantasy trilogy set in a matriarchal world shaped by legacy, magic, and fate. When she’s not writing, Katherine lives with her husband and three sons, reads late into the night, and dreams up new worlds fueled by far too much coffee.

For updates on new releases, sneak peeks, or to join her newsletter, visit her website: www.KatherineTiradoRyen.com

Reviews

[Vicki Brannen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like the book very much. I laughed, and I cried at the end any book that can do that to me and bring me back to memories of my own is a great book to read, and it was quick for me anyway I would definitely recommend this book to anyone.

[Agatha Margret · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Charming Narrative

Katherine Tirado-Ryen's "Two Weeks of Summer," is set in 2005 and follows Kim Kincaid who reluctantly takes on the role of babysitter for her 6-year-old niece, Summer, in Little Rock, Arkansas. Juggling unexpected responsibilities, Kim has to handle complex relationships and insecurities. The author crafts an intricate dynamic of family. Tirado-Ryen tale is a layered narrative that examines nuanced relationships, particularly the strained bond between Kim and her older sister, Dena. The transition between past and present provides insightful glimpses into the reasons behind the near-ruptured connection between the sisters. Kim's journey becomes a compelling tale of self-discovery and growth as she navigates the challenges of caring for Summer. The narrative gains depth through the exploration of character dynamics, including Kim's friendships and her complicated relationship with boyfriend Jared. While a few flashbacks may seem extraneous, "Two Weeks of Summer" emerges as a pleasing coming-of-age tale. The author skillfully explores themes of insecurity, sibling rivalry, and the lasting impact of grief with a touch of empathy and sweetness.

[Cory · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great story about growing up, family, and self-discovery. I thought it really illustrated what it’s like to be in your twenties and struggling to settle into adulthood. The author injects her signature sense of humor and heart to create a perfect novel for the holidays.

[Kennedy Capps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a feel good book! The writing was captivating and I found myself getting more and more attached to characters as I could see a part of myself and my personal relationships through them. Such a well written, overall great book!

[Carla Merrell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reminds me of a combination of “big daddy” meets “curly sue”, could be a lifetime movie. Solid characters, lovely story (that’s so relatable). Chapter 22 and on had me 🤯🤯🤯 in a good way. Bonus points for mentioning my favorite restaurant. A feel good book with all the emotions.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great book. I totally got sucked in and had a hard time putting it down.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. If you want a feel good story that's easy to read, this is your book!!!
I have already ordered another book by Katherine Tirado-Ryen!! I highly recommend this book.

[Diane Bannister · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute book .

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute story about a girl, Kim, who is in a boring job, in a going no where relationship and at odds with the only family she has left, her sister Dena. Her sister has asked Kim to watch her daughter, Summer, for two weeks before Chrystal. Dena and her husband are going on vacation. Kim hasn’t the slightest idea of what to do with a 6 year old. As Kim begins watching her niece, she begins to realize her life needs some major changes. The story focuses on love, worthiness, friends and family. As you read the story, the characters feel like family. My only disappointment was the ending.

[Eden High · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although a light read, 'Two Weeks of Summer's' storyline flowed.
It's a perfect curl up in front of the fire on a cold day, lounge around in the sun, kind of read.
Or in my case cruise the Atlantic and laze in the sun.
It is fairly predictable, a bit weak in places but generally gives a feel good read.

[lindi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Two weeks of summer

The book is an easy read,but, not what I expected. I thought there would be humor, which there was not.

[Susan Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick and fun read, only took a couple of days. Relatable characters and an interesting storyline.

[tammy wasser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Neices

I loved the story. I have
three neices and one
great neice. I love them all very much. Thank you

[Silvia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book feels like a Hallmark movie; under-achieving sister, successful sister, toxic boyfriend, friendly neighbor.... ugh, such a satisfying read for everything it promised to be.