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Lowcountry Summer #2
The Summer Wind
The Summer Wind is the second book in Monroe's Lowcountry Summer trilogy, following the New York Times bestselling The Summer Girls. This series is a poignant and heartwarming story of three half-sisters and their grandmother, who is determined to help them rediscover their southern roots and family bonds.
It's midsummer and Eudora, nicknamed Dora, is staying at Sea Breeze, the family's ancestral home on Sullivan Island. For years, Dora has played the role of the perfect wife and mother in a loveless marriage. Now her husband has filed for divorce, her child is diagnosed with autism, and her house is on the market. Dora's facade collapses under the weight of her grief and she suffers broken heart syndrome. Mamaw and the girls rally around Dora but its up to Dora to heal herself as she spends the summer prowling the beach, discovering the secrets of the island and her heart. This is a summer of discovery for all the women of Sea Breeze. Carson returns from Florida to face life-changing decisions, Lucille confronts a health scare, and an unexpected visitor has Harper reconsidering her life's direction.
When tropical storm winds batter the island, the women must band together and weather the tempest, both the one outside their windows and the raging sea of emotions within each of them. They must learn again what it means to be a sister. It is up to Mamaw to keep the light burning at Sea Breeze to guide the girls through the lies, the threats, and the rocky waters of indecision to home.
It's midsummer and Eudora, nicknamed Dora, is staying at Sea Breeze, the family's ancestral home on Sullivan Island. For years, Dora has played the role of the perfect wife and mother in a loveless marriage. Now her husband has filed for divorce, her child is diagnosed with autism, and her house is on the market. Dora's facade collapses under the weight of her grief and she suffers broken heart syndrome. Mamaw and the girls rally around Dora but its up to Dora to heal herself as she spends the summer prowling the beach, discovering the secrets of the island and her heart. This is a summer of discovery for all the women of Sea Breeze. Carson returns from Florida to face life-changing decisions, Lucille confronts a health scare, and an unexpected visitor has Harper reconsidering her life's direction.
When tropical storm winds batter the island, the women must band together and weather the tempest, both the one outside their windows and the raging sea of emotions within each of them. They must learn again what it means to be a sister. It is up to Mamaw to keep the light burning at Sea Breeze to guide the girls through the lies, the threats, and the rocky waters of indecision to home.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published June 17, 2014
1159 people are currently reading
5871 people want to read
About the author
Mary Alice Monroe
71 books5,689 followersMary Alice Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 30 books, including her new novel, Where the Rivers Merge, the first book in a duology and her historical debut. The second book is titled The Rivers End. Release date has not been set yet.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
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September 23, 2014
The Summer Wind by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2014 Gallery Books Publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Full disclosure: I have not read the other book in this series and I am going out and immediately rectifying that gaff. Having said that, this book obviously can be read as a stand alone. Naturally, reading in order is always the best way to go, but you can dive right in with this and get the gist of the situation.
I love stories like one. I was there on Sea Breeze, enjoying the stellar company and living through the transformation Dora goes through right along with her. There is a lot going on in this story and it's much deeper than what appears on the surface. I loved the dolphins and the emotional attachment Nate and Carson had to them. Animals are simply wonderful and I thought the dolphin story was a life lesson and cathartic as well. Dora and her marital home seem to be a parallel to one another. Her marriage is over and work has begun on dismantling all that remained of it.
When Dora's beloved grandmother invites her three granddaughters to visit Sea Breeze for the summer it's more than just an invitation. Maw Maw is thinking of selling and this could be the last chance to spend time there. Over the years the three half sisters, Dora, Harper, and Carson have drifted apart. Maw Maw hopes to bring them closer together and is not above using some mild manipulations to do so. In this second book of the series the main focus is on Dora and her special needs son, Nate. Nate is autistic and has Asperger's Syndrome. When Dora has a medical scare she is forced to make some changes in her life and her Maw Maw and two sisters are determined to encourage her the best they can.
Carson is sober now, but still not as mature as she should be by this time, but she does a really wonderful thing for Nate and Dora. A shocking development though could bring things into focus for Carson once she manages to accept it.
Harper is a few years younger and has a cold mother and wealth which brings many suitors, none of them really interested in Harper, but more in her royal lineage and money. Maw Maw will also learn her best friend Lucy is going through a health crisis and not only will her granddaughter's need her, she will need them as well.
This is the perfect book to take to the beach but it's a good book to just curl up with in the afternoon with big glass of iced tea. I enjoyed watching Dora come alive for the first time in her life. She slowly blossoms with the help of an old boyfriend and her sisters. She learns to give her son a little breathing room and stop living her life “by the book” and doing what is expected of her. There is drama, romance, laughter and tears, human frailties and emotional twist. Overall a very compelling and thought provoking read. This one is recommended to those who enjoy Women's fiction of Chick lit especially. 4.5 stars
Full disclosure: I have not read the other book in this series and I am going out and immediately rectifying that gaff. Having said that, this book obviously can be read as a stand alone. Naturally, reading in order is always the best way to go, but you can dive right in with this and get the gist of the situation.
I love stories like one. I was there on Sea Breeze, enjoying the stellar company and living through the transformation Dora goes through right along with her. There is a lot going on in this story and it's much deeper than what appears on the surface. I loved the dolphins and the emotional attachment Nate and Carson had to them. Animals are simply wonderful and I thought the dolphin story was a life lesson and cathartic as well. Dora and her marital home seem to be a parallel to one another. Her marriage is over and work has begun on dismantling all that remained of it.
When Dora's beloved grandmother invites her three granddaughters to visit Sea Breeze for the summer it's more than just an invitation. Maw Maw is thinking of selling and this could be the last chance to spend time there. Over the years the three half sisters, Dora, Harper, and Carson have drifted apart. Maw Maw hopes to bring them closer together and is not above using some mild manipulations to do so. In this second book of the series the main focus is on Dora and her special needs son, Nate. Nate is autistic and has Asperger's Syndrome. When Dora has a medical scare she is forced to make some changes in her life and her Maw Maw and two sisters are determined to encourage her the best they can.
Carson is sober now, but still not as mature as she should be by this time, but she does a really wonderful thing for Nate and Dora. A shocking development though could bring things into focus for Carson once she manages to accept it.
Harper is a few years younger and has a cold mother and wealth which brings many suitors, none of them really interested in Harper, but more in her royal lineage and money. Maw Maw will also learn her best friend Lucy is going through a health crisis and not only will her granddaughter's need her, she will need them as well.
This is the perfect book to take to the beach but it's a good book to just curl up with in the afternoon with big glass of iced tea. I enjoyed watching Dora come alive for the first time in her life. She slowly blossoms with the help of an old boyfriend and her sisters. She learns to give her son a little breathing room and stop living her life “by the book” and doing what is expected of her. There is drama, romance, laughter and tears, human frailties and emotional twist. Overall a very compelling and thought provoking read. This one is recommended to those who enjoy Women's fiction of Chick lit especially. 4.5 stars
May 13, 2014
WOW! What a great book!!!! I just finished The Summer Wind, but still feel like I’m on Sullivan’s Island enjoying iced tea under the big oak tree. It's one of those books that you just keep thinking about. The sisters are like old friends now. The Summer Wind by Mary Alice Monroe is a fantastic book. I usually am a very slow reader, but I couldn’t put this book down. I was drawn into the easy life Mawmaw’s home on the first page. Mary Alice Monroe has a way of making me feel like I’m right there with Dora, Carson and Harper enjoying Lucille’s cooking and soaking in the warm breeze of Sullivan’s Island. This book is one I just couldn’t get enough of! Dora’s struggles and excitement in making her way through an unhappy time in her life was just downright inspiring. I love the way Mary Alice Monroe presents Dora’s son, Nate, who has Asperger’s. I think this may be my favorite Mary Alice Monroe book!
September 28, 2020
The second book in Monroe’s Lowcountry Summer trilogy is pleasant and furthers the storyline of the sisters, but it doesn’t contain a great deal of substance. This installment focuses a bit more on Dora than the other two women, and those portions of the story, as well as the parts featuring dolphins, are the most interesting and well plotted.
Returning home from Florida, Carson has some serious decisions to make. Meanwhile, Dora is struggling trying to balance caring for her autistic son, supervising the remodeling of her previous home in order to sell it, and dealing with her soon-to-be-ex and his demands. Dora herself seems to be lost in the shuffle of it all. Harper is beginning to discover her own personality and tentatively makes strides in that area. Mamaw hopes that the girls can form a true sisterly bond before the summer ends and they go their separate ways.
Returning home from Florida, Carson has some serious decisions to make. Meanwhile, Dora is struggling trying to balance caring for her autistic son, supervising the remodeling of her previous home in order to sell it, and dealing with her soon-to-be-ex and his demands. Dora herself seems to be lost in the shuffle of it all. Harper is beginning to discover her own personality and tentatively makes strides in that area. Mamaw hopes that the girls can form a true sisterly bond before the summer ends and they go their separate ways.
March 6, 2022
If you like a good beach read you will LOVE The Summer Wind by Mary Alice Monroe. This is the second in a series of three about a family coming back together after years of having little to no contact with each other. While I wasn’t on Sullivan’s when reading (I was on neighboring Folly Beach), I could just picture in my mind many of the settings described in the book. Visions of the dock behind Sea Breeze, the humid summer evenings, as well as the dolphins playing offshore, were all very near to me as I read. I felt as it I was living in the book! The Summer Wind picks up with Carson going to Florida to check on “Delphine” our favorite dolphin, and the injuries Delphine received with entanglement in fishing line at Sea Breeze. While Dora was returning to Summerville to check on repairs to her home prior to it being put on the market for sale, Harper knew she needed to head back to New York for provisions if she was going to stay the summer on the island. The story continues as the three sisters made the decision to spend this summer at Sea Breeze with their beloved Mamaw, and her companion Lucille. As summer is now in full force, the girls contemplate major life-changing plans in each of their lives and how they affect their sisters, as well as Mamaw, and Doro’s son Nate. Mary Alice Monroe has another spectacular story inter-woven in the low country and about the dolphins that roam our waters, and you’ll meet a couple of characters
May 21, 2014
The Summer Wind by Mary Alice Monroe
Bam! Just like that I am back at Sea Breeze. The opening paragraph put me right beside Mamaw as she continues her quest to bring her granddaughters, Dora, Harper, and Carson, together. I was thinking I might need to go back and re-read The Summer Girls, but MAM's descriptive writing pulled me right back into the story, like I had never missed a beat.
At one point we were reunited, although briefly, with our old friend, Cara from the Beach House series with sea turtles. I love how MAM subtly weaves her books together, like a tapestry with a beautiful silver thread running through all the designs. And if you haven't read a previous one, you won't feel lost or think that you have missed something. MAM has such talent for incorporating a factual environmental aspect into a work of fiction - dolphins in this trilogy, sea turtles and butterflies to name a few in other books.
No, no, no, not yet, I thought as I turned to the final page. But then I remembered that this is book 2 of a trilogy - there is more to come. .....
Bam! Just like that I am back at Sea Breeze. The opening paragraph put me right beside Mamaw as she continues her quest to bring her granddaughters, Dora, Harper, and Carson, together. I was thinking I might need to go back and re-read The Summer Girls, but MAM's descriptive writing pulled me right back into the story, like I had never missed a beat.
At one point we were reunited, although briefly, with our old friend, Cara from the Beach House series with sea turtles. I love how MAM subtly weaves her books together, like a tapestry with a beautiful silver thread running through all the designs. And if you haven't read a previous one, you won't feel lost or think that you have missed something. MAM has such talent for incorporating a factual environmental aspect into a work of fiction - dolphins in this trilogy, sea turtles and butterflies to name a few in other books.
No, no, no, not yet, I thought as I turned to the final page. But then I remembered that this is book 2 of a trilogy - there is more to come. .....
September 4, 2015
It is okay.
June 23, 2014
This is the sequel to The Summer Girls and the second book in the Lowcountry Summer Trilogy. This one focuses on Dora, who I found least likable of the sisters. Also, no matter how many times the author mentioned Dora's beautiful blonde hair, the Dora in my mind persisted in having an ugly dark brown bowl cut. Specifically, I imagined her looking like Amy Bishop, the bio prof who shot up her department meeting at UAH a few years back. I couldn't figure out why until I realized: Dora the Explorer has basically the same haircut.
Anyway, in the first book, I found Dora almost entirely unrelatable, so I wasn't too excited that this book would focus on her. But, as I got to know her better through this book, I started to understand and like her better. Also, this one does a better job of bringing all three sisters into the story, rather than focusing almost exclusively on just one as the first one did. I like that.
Things I wouldn't have predicted from the first one:
These books have kind of a roughness to them--it doesn't seem like all the elements of plot and personality completely tie together or stay consistent. This one especially seemed kind of confused about exactly what it was about. Just look at the blurb--there's a storm, and Dora, and Lucille's illness, and Harper's mysterious visitor (?), and of course Carson's trip to Florida for more dolphin dolphin dolphin stuff. Somehow, it all seems like a set of things that happen, rather than a cohesive story with one point or theme. But overall, I enjoyed reading both of these books, and I'm curious about what will happen in the third. Harper is my favorite, so I'm looking forward to a book that focuses on her.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review!
Anyway, in the first book, I found Dora almost entirely unrelatable, so I wasn't too excited that this book would focus on her. But, as I got to know her better through this book, I started to understand and like her better. Also, this one does a better job of bringing all three sisters into the story, rather than focusing almost exclusively on just one as the first one did. I like that.
Things I wouldn't have predicted from the first one:
These books have kind of a roughness to them--it doesn't seem like all the elements of plot and personality completely tie together or stay consistent. This one especially seemed kind of confused about exactly what it was about. Just look at the blurb--there's a storm, and Dora, and Lucille's illness, and Harper's mysterious visitor (?), and of course Carson's trip to Florida for more dolphin dolphin dolphin stuff. Somehow, it all seems like a set of things that happen, rather than a cohesive story with one point or theme. But overall, I enjoyed reading both of these books, and I'm curious about what will happen in the third. Harper is my favorite, so I'm looking forward to a book that focuses on her.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance review copy in exchange for an honest review!
May 29, 2014
I loved this book! I could close my eyes and picture Maw Maw sitting on the porch. This is a must read! Just make sure you have time to read, because once you start, you will want to read it all! I really enjoy the relationships of all these women. Thank you ,Mary Alice ,for another great book! Mary Alice Monroe will never disappoint you! Wish I could give this book even more stars! Five just isn't enough.
August 18, 2015
ALL of the Southern stereotypes in one predictable plot. My face hurts from rolling my eyes. Like being trapped in an issue of Garden & Gun.
July 13, 2014
http://anurseandabook.blogspot.com/20...
Hmmm....I've read one of Mary Alice Monroe's books before and I liked it enough to read the sequel. So I was excited to get this advanced copy from NetGalley because I remember her as being a great beach read.
So I started the book with high hopes. After about 50 pages, I started getting confused. I felt like maybe I had read the book before. After 75 pages, I was convinced I had read this book.
Thank God for Goodreads. I went back and looked through my "read" history and found the book I had read. It was "Swimming Lessons" and it was published in 2007.
So now I knew this couldn't be the same book, but the entire time I read it, I was feeling a little bored, because I felt like I knew how it was going to end.
Elderly women living in beach cottages, teaching their grown children and/or grandchildren life lessons, grown women with absentee alcoholic fathers, emotional connections to sea life, unhappy marriages due to following the rules of the southern belle. All of the same story lines are present, just tweaked a little bit.
That isn't to say that it isn't a good book. Both books are easy beach reads. But it just felt a little like re-reading the same book, when it wasn't a five star book worth re-reading, so I actually felt a little hoodwinked.
After a little research, I discovered this is the second book in a three book series. If I had nothing better to do, I might read the third book just to see how it all ends out, but I feel like there wouldn't be many surprises.
Hmmm....I've read one of Mary Alice Monroe's books before and I liked it enough to read the sequel. So I was excited to get this advanced copy from NetGalley because I remember her as being a great beach read.
So I started the book with high hopes. After about 50 pages, I started getting confused. I felt like maybe I had read the book before. After 75 pages, I was convinced I had read this book.
Thank God for Goodreads. I went back and looked through my "read" history and found the book I had read. It was "Swimming Lessons" and it was published in 2007.
So now I knew this couldn't be the same book, but the entire time I read it, I was feeling a little bored, because I felt like I knew how it was going to end.
Elderly women living in beach cottages, teaching their grown children and/or grandchildren life lessons, grown women with absentee alcoholic fathers, emotional connections to sea life, unhappy marriages due to following the rules of the southern belle. All of the same story lines are present, just tweaked a little bit.
That isn't to say that it isn't a good book. Both books are easy beach reads. But it just felt a little like re-reading the same book, when it wasn't a five star book worth re-reading, so I actually felt a little hoodwinked.
After a little research, I discovered this is the second book in a three book series. If I had nothing better to do, I might read the third book just to see how it all ends out, but I feel like there wouldn't be many surprises.
March 30, 2015
A special thanks to Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
THE SUMMER WIND is beautifully written and captivating, Mary Alice Monroe’s best work thus far----a powerful trilogy, of three grown step-sisters, from different walks of life, a loving sixth-generation, southern Charlestonian grandmother, a wise and loyal housekeeper, and a charismatic dolphin who touches the lives of a troubled boy and his aunt.
Guilt and healing are constant themes of the poignant book, these experiences are apparent in each of the character’s lives, as well as a courageous Dolphin.
Being a fan of Mary Alice Monroe for a number of years, she is a master at skillfully weaving into her narrative, significant environmental topics, blending them into the lives of her flawed characters---as they mature, learn, and find healing from life’s lessons and experiences.
Monroe’s theme of humans and animals --sharing a connection, is evident throughout THE SUMMER WIND--with Nate, Carlson, Delphine; Cara/Sea Turtles, and Taylor/Jax/Thor. Monroe’s books demonstrate a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting animals, and the environment in which they live.
Each one being unique--speaking to readers’ hearts, with richly developed characters, you will not soon forget, even after the story ends.
I loved THE SUMMER GIRLS (#1) in the Lowcountry Trilogy, and was delighted to attain an advanced reading copy of THE SUMMER WIND (#2), to catch up with these lovable characters: Delphine (Dolphin), Nate, Carson, Dora, Harper, Lucille, and MaMaw.
As these three half-sisters reunite in this alluring ecological setting of the Lowcountry of SC, at the historical Sea Breeze home, with stunning views and tranquil waters, filled with summer memories with their wise grandmother Mamaw and side kick, Lucille, (African American housekeeper, which is at the center of the fun); her utmost desire, is for her three granddaughters to rediscover their southern roots, family bonds, and connect with one another, even through life storms. Each have a common link, an alcoholic father, Parker, now deceased (MaMaw’s son, a “want to be author” who named each daughter after a famous author) —all with different mothers.
Picking up from Book One, MaMaw (Marietta) celebrated her eightieth birthday, alluring the girls home before putting the home on the market, in order to plan to go into an assisted living facility. She threatened to cut them of the will if they did not spend the entire summer with her. (of course, her motives--not all selfish, as each of the girls needed a kick in the butt and some good LowCountry healing).
CARSON (33) living in California, a free spirit, surfer and water lover, (runs at the mention of trouble or problems), recently lost her job, was pleased to spend the summer rent-free on the island. Readers were all delighted to find how she worked miracles, finding a connection with her nephew, Nate (Dora’s autism son), sharing her love of dolphins and the ocean.
Carson, does not want to get too close to anyone, with the fear of getting hurt. Even though she does meet Blake, an environmentalist and Taylor, a veteran helping others, Carson is worried she is becoming an alcoholic, so decides to give up the drink and focus her energies helping save Dolphins, and Nate, while trying to find her way.
In this book, she is taking a road trip to the Florida Keys with Nate, to help him heal his guilt (and hers), over the terrible accident involving the much loved dolphin, Delphine. They will spend time at a program working with children and dolphins, while connecting with their much loved and missed, Delphine which was at death’s door at the end of the last book.
DORA (36) SC southern belle, in the midst of a divorce, was easily persuaded to stay at Sea Breeze, with her son Nate (Asperger’s), while repairs were being completed on her house in Summerville. She is still married to the awful Cal, we learned to despise in the first book.
Dora is overwhelmed, uptight, and is experiencing heart problems. She has to chill, as always trying to be the perfect belle, with high expectations – finds herself in need of some R&R, and needs to take care of herself with the heavy demands of her son, Nate. (plus pressure she adds to herself)
Yum…The handsome ex-boyfriend Delvin fits the bill (loved this guy), perfectly, as she finds some romance, laid back summer fun, and gets herself in shape with proper eating, exercise, and allows her sister, Harper help guide her with a much needed makeover and a new outlook/attitude.
For Dora, the winds of change force her to cope with the aftermath of a messy divorce. As she lets go of her façade of the perfect wife and mother role, she discovers a renewed purpose and then she can move on with her future (let’s hope with Delvin- as loved him!)
HARPER (28) New Yorker, of course, was the one sister, not so easily convinced to return to the Lowcountry, calling it blackmail. She is most sophisticated, well-traveled, having the best education, and is an heiress with plenty of money. However, not so happy, until she discovers she loves the Lowcountry and her southern roots, finding solace, quiet, and time fulfill her passion of writing.
At the same time, she can relate to Nate with her computer knowledge (less talking and socializing, more online interaction), as well as assisting her sister Dora with gardening, creating organization, and a new makeover. She has lived a rigid life at the hands of her demanding mother, and loves spending time with MaMaw and being able to reflect through writing with freedom of expression. For Harper, a summer of self-reflection leads her to the revealing the weight of the expectations placed on her as the heir to her family’s fortune. I related to Harper the most (minus the wealth), as neat, organized, creative, reading, writing, and love of solitude.
As a rough island storm brews and a health crisis threatens a beloved member of the family, the summer girls’ bond is strengthened, just as Mamaw had planned, for a poignant summer on Sullivan Island.
The theme of healing is dominant throughout the book, as Dora heals from her heart condition, and her miserable and unhappy life, while the dolphin Delphine heals from her injuries. There are many parallels of letting go of the past and moving on to new experiences. Guilt also plays a huge role, as each character is suffering from some sort of guilt, whether it be the accident involving Delphine, the care of a specially challenged child, past family history, or a bad marriage, and how each one of them learns to accept.
Each of the girls, plus Nate mature with transformations from the last book, which will forever change the course of their lives. It is difficult to say which girl changed the most, possibly Dora, as her unhappiness was more apparent and the transformation was physical, as well as psychological.
Unearthing the slave manacles is a great tie in, as the manacles represent how each of their lives has been shackled by different elements with the opportunity to reflect, let go, and move on past these obstacles which stand in their way of happiness.
Fans of southern writers: Wendy Wax, Karen White, Dorothea Benton Frank, Patti Callahan Henry, and Mary Kay Andrews will appreciate THE SUMMER WIND—each with their own unique style, and a common love of the south.
Would highly recommend reading THE SUMMER GIRLS, prior to reading THE SUMMER WIND (both winners), in order to really get to know the characters and the background.
This book was very special to me, having lived in the Florida Keys (Key Largo), for several years, while working with several real estate projects. I had the opportunity to visit the Dolphin Cove, a marine education and dolphin swim facility located in sunny Key Largo, Florida. Swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove is like no other dolphin encounter, available to the public throughout the year and a great addition for families on their vacation- having referred many visitors to this beautiful natural lagoon.
I would also recommend if you are in the area for Dolphins Cove, travel a little further south to Islamorada, to the Theater of the Sea, which provides a wonderful home for animals while sharing them with in ways that inspire awareness and sensitivity towards animals, the environment, and conservation issues.
http://judithdcollins.booklikes.com/p...
THE SUMMER WIND is beautifully written and captivating, Mary Alice Monroe’s best work thus far----a powerful trilogy, of three grown step-sisters, from different walks of life, a loving sixth-generation, southern Charlestonian grandmother, a wise and loyal housekeeper, and a charismatic dolphin who touches the lives of a troubled boy and his aunt.
Guilt and healing are constant themes of the poignant book, these experiences are apparent in each of the character’s lives, as well as a courageous Dolphin.
Being a fan of Mary Alice Monroe for a number of years, she is a master at skillfully weaving into her narrative, significant environmental topics, blending them into the lives of her flawed characters---as they mature, learn, and find healing from life’s lessons and experiences.
Monroe’s theme of humans and animals --sharing a connection, is evident throughout THE SUMMER WIND--with Nate, Carlson, Delphine; Cara/Sea Turtles, and Taylor/Jax/Thor. Monroe’s books demonstrate a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting animals, and the environment in which they live.
Each one being unique--speaking to readers’ hearts, with richly developed characters, you will not soon forget, even after the story ends.
I loved THE SUMMER GIRLS (#1) in the Lowcountry Trilogy, and was delighted to attain an advanced reading copy of THE SUMMER WIND (#2), to catch up with these lovable characters: Delphine (Dolphin), Nate, Carson, Dora, Harper, Lucille, and MaMaw.
As these three half-sisters reunite in this alluring ecological setting of the Lowcountry of SC, at the historical Sea Breeze home, with stunning views and tranquil waters, filled with summer memories with their wise grandmother Mamaw and side kick, Lucille, (African American housekeeper, which is at the center of the fun); her utmost desire, is for her three granddaughters to rediscover their southern roots, family bonds, and connect with one another, even through life storms. Each have a common link, an alcoholic father, Parker, now deceased (MaMaw’s son, a “want to be author” who named each daughter after a famous author) —all with different mothers.
Picking up from Book One, MaMaw (Marietta) celebrated her eightieth birthday, alluring the girls home before putting the home on the market, in order to plan to go into an assisted living facility. She threatened to cut them of the will if they did not spend the entire summer with her. (of course, her motives--not all selfish, as each of the girls needed a kick in the butt and some good LowCountry healing).
CARSON (33) living in California, a free spirit, surfer and water lover, (runs at the mention of trouble or problems), recently lost her job, was pleased to spend the summer rent-free on the island. Readers were all delighted to find how she worked miracles, finding a connection with her nephew, Nate (Dora’s autism son), sharing her love of dolphins and the ocean.
Carson, does not want to get too close to anyone, with the fear of getting hurt. Even though she does meet Blake, an environmentalist and Taylor, a veteran helping others, Carson is worried she is becoming an alcoholic, so decides to give up the drink and focus her energies helping save Dolphins, and Nate, while trying to find her way.
In this book, she is taking a road trip to the Florida Keys with Nate, to help him heal his guilt (and hers), over the terrible accident involving the much loved dolphin, Delphine. They will spend time at a program working with children and dolphins, while connecting with their much loved and missed, Delphine which was at death’s door at the end of the last book.
DORA (36) SC southern belle, in the midst of a divorce, was easily persuaded to stay at Sea Breeze, with her son Nate (Asperger’s), while repairs were being completed on her house in Summerville. She is still married to the awful Cal, we learned to despise in the first book.
Dora is overwhelmed, uptight, and is experiencing heart problems. She has to chill, as always trying to be the perfect belle, with high expectations – finds herself in need of some R&R, and needs to take care of herself with the heavy demands of her son, Nate. (plus pressure she adds to herself)
Yum…The handsome ex-boyfriend Delvin fits the bill (loved this guy), perfectly, as she finds some romance, laid back summer fun, and gets herself in shape with proper eating, exercise, and allows her sister, Harper help guide her with a much needed makeover and a new outlook/attitude.
For Dora, the winds of change force her to cope with the aftermath of a messy divorce. As she lets go of her façade of the perfect wife and mother role, she discovers a renewed purpose and then she can move on with her future (let’s hope with Delvin- as loved him!)
HARPER (28) New Yorker, of course, was the one sister, not so easily convinced to return to the Lowcountry, calling it blackmail. She is most sophisticated, well-traveled, having the best education, and is an heiress with plenty of money. However, not so happy, until she discovers she loves the Lowcountry and her southern roots, finding solace, quiet, and time fulfill her passion of writing.
At the same time, she can relate to Nate with her computer knowledge (less talking and socializing, more online interaction), as well as assisting her sister Dora with gardening, creating organization, and a new makeover. She has lived a rigid life at the hands of her demanding mother, and loves spending time with MaMaw and being able to reflect through writing with freedom of expression. For Harper, a summer of self-reflection leads her to the revealing the weight of the expectations placed on her as the heir to her family’s fortune. I related to Harper the most (minus the wealth), as neat, organized, creative, reading, writing, and love of solitude.
As a rough island storm brews and a health crisis threatens a beloved member of the family, the summer girls’ bond is strengthened, just as Mamaw had planned, for a poignant summer on Sullivan Island.
The theme of healing is dominant throughout the book, as Dora heals from her heart condition, and her miserable and unhappy life, while the dolphin Delphine heals from her injuries. There are many parallels of letting go of the past and moving on to new experiences. Guilt also plays a huge role, as each character is suffering from some sort of guilt, whether it be the accident involving Delphine, the care of a specially challenged child, past family history, or a bad marriage, and how each one of them learns to accept.
Each of the girls, plus Nate mature with transformations from the last book, which will forever change the course of their lives. It is difficult to say which girl changed the most, possibly Dora, as her unhappiness was more apparent and the transformation was physical, as well as psychological.
Unearthing the slave manacles is a great tie in, as the manacles represent how each of their lives has been shackled by different elements with the opportunity to reflect, let go, and move on past these obstacles which stand in their way of happiness.
Fans of southern writers: Wendy Wax, Karen White, Dorothea Benton Frank, Patti Callahan Henry, and Mary Kay Andrews will appreciate THE SUMMER WIND—each with their own unique style, and a common love of the south.
Would highly recommend reading THE SUMMER GIRLS, prior to reading THE SUMMER WIND (both winners), in order to really get to know the characters and the background.
This book was very special to me, having lived in the Florida Keys (Key Largo), for several years, while working with several real estate projects. I had the opportunity to visit the Dolphin Cove, a marine education and dolphin swim facility located in sunny Key Largo, Florida. Swimming with the dolphins at Dolphin Cove is like no other dolphin encounter, available to the public throughout the year and a great addition for families on their vacation- having referred many visitors to this beautiful natural lagoon.
I would also recommend if you are in the area for Dolphins Cove, travel a little further south to Islamorada, to the Theater of the Sea, which provides a wonderful home for animals while sharing them with in ways that inspire awareness and sensitivity towards animals, the environment, and conservation issues.
http://judithdcollins.booklikes.com/p...
January 27, 2016
Their final summer at Sea Breeze on Sullivan’s Island, South Carolina, continues, with some new challenges for the three half-sisters.
Mamaw (Marietta Muir) is firm in her support, albeit still planning to sell the summer estate.
Dora is in the midst of settling the divorce issues and helping little Nate with his grief over the dolphin’s injuries earlier in the summer. A health crisis causes big changes in how she faces her life.
Carson is instrumental in helping her nephew heal, by taking him to Florida to the treatment center where children and injured dolphins heal together. But her own unexpected life change leads to moments of facing her fears.
Harper plants a garden and deals with her own issues. Secretly she writes on her computer, but shares nothing with the girls or her grandmother.
Like the summer winds that come along toward the end of the story, with a big storm that resembles their own challenges, the three women will move a little closer to their own resolutions.
I enjoyed The Summer Wind and reconnecting with the characters. The support and advice of Mamaw and their old maid Lillian felt like the kind of true strength offered by a close family. I also loved how the author painted a picture of the lowcountry, making me feel as if I were right there with them. The story concluded without an “end” to the conflicts and challenges, but a feeling of moving in that direction. There were sad moments, but also a stronger bond between the women. I am looking forward to the final book in the trilogy. 4.5 stars.
Mamaw (Marietta Muir) is firm in her support, albeit still planning to sell the summer estate.
Dora is in the midst of settling the divorce issues and helping little Nate with his grief over the dolphin’s injuries earlier in the summer. A health crisis causes big changes in how she faces her life.
Carson is instrumental in helping her nephew heal, by taking him to Florida to the treatment center where children and injured dolphins heal together. But her own unexpected life change leads to moments of facing her fears.
Harper plants a garden and deals with her own issues. Secretly she writes on her computer, but shares nothing with the girls or her grandmother.
Like the summer winds that come along toward the end of the story, with a big storm that resembles their own challenges, the three women will move a little closer to their own resolutions.
I enjoyed The Summer Wind and reconnecting with the characters. The support and advice of Mamaw and their old maid Lillian felt like the kind of true strength offered by a close family. I also loved how the author painted a picture of the lowcountry, making me feel as if I were right there with them. The story concluded without an “end” to the conflicts and challenges, but a feeling of moving in that direction. There were sad moments, but also a stronger bond between the women. I am looking forward to the final book in the trilogy. 4.5 stars.
July 5, 2017
It took me 4 nights to get to page 38.At that point I figured it would all be a happy ending.I gave up. I do like this author,but didn't like the characters. No empathy.
March 11, 2024
Enjoy Mary Alice Monroe and her South Carolina beach reads.
December 19, 2024
4.5 stars. The Summer Wind is #2 in the Lowcountry Summer trilogy written and narrated by Mary Alice Monroe. This book takes up the story of the three half sisters, Dora, Carson and Harper. Not to forget Nate, Dora's son. Of course Mamaw and Lucille are very much part of their lives again too. They are all still at Sea Breeze on Sullivan's Island for the last summer before the house must be sold.
This book focuses on Dora, her marriage seems to be over and it is time for her to pick up her life and maybe let the reins go too a little where Nate is concerned. Mamaw, Carson and Harper all take it in turn to help and support Dora in the process of healing. It doesn't hurt either that she meets an old friend who seems exactly right for her.
We also are updated on Delphine's progress, the dolphin that was badly injured in Book one. There is also a delightful scene with turtles.
The winds of change are moving through the house for Mamaw, Lucille and the girls. Carson is thrown a curve ball that leaves her all at sea, what she will decide remains to be seen. Dora is realising it is time for her to be independent and make choices that will take her into the second half of life a happy person. Harper too is beginning to think through her future. And someone says a last goodbye.
This trilogy is definitely one where to pick up just one would be dissatisfying. It is one story told in three parts. I look forward to the last one to pick up the lives of these mostly southern women.
Again the book is narrated by the author, she has a feel for the story and I enjoyed listening to her tell it.
This book focuses on Dora, her marriage seems to be over and it is time for her to pick up her life and maybe let the reins go too a little where Nate is concerned. Mamaw, Carson and Harper all take it in turn to help and support Dora in the process of healing. It doesn't hurt either that she meets an old friend who seems exactly right for her.
We also are updated on Delphine's progress, the dolphin that was badly injured in Book one. There is also a delightful scene with turtles.
The winds of change are moving through the house for Mamaw, Lucille and the girls. Carson is thrown a curve ball that leaves her all at sea, what she will decide remains to be seen. Dora is realising it is time for her to be independent and make choices that will take her into the second half of life a happy person. Harper too is beginning to think through her future. And someone says a last goodbye.
This trilogy is definitely one where to pick up just one would be dissatisfying. It is one story told in three parts. I look forward to the last one to pick up the lives of these mostly southern women.
Again the book is narrated by the author, she has a feel for the story and I enjoyed listening to her tell it.
June 18, 2014
I have no choice but to wait to read "The Summer's End" and I will cherish the readings of "The Summer Girls" and "The Summer Wind". Every summer when I read the new Mary Alice Monroe book, it is my new favorite. My summer highlight is your book. I love the personalities and true lives of Dora, Carson, and Harper! Lucille is so much like my grandmother. I felt like I was at Sea Breeze with the girls. I loved the lessons learned about sibling relationships and the way their priorities in life changed for the betterment of each individually and as family. It was so nice to see Cara and Lovie included in the story. Some of my favorite quotes are "find yourself and you will find your way home."
(Carson) "this isn't the ocean. This is life, it's different."
"No it ain't." Lucille... "Carson, honey, life is like that ocean out there, it's deep and bountiful, and the waves just keep on comin'. Sometimes the waves get choppy, sometimes they smooth. You just got to ride them Carson, same as you always done." MAM you are brilliant! And then of course, " when the hard times come, just dance." Thank you for your beautiful illustrations and amazing storytelling. You have given me the gift of a beautiful beginning to the summer of 2014!
(Carson) "this isn't the ocean. This is life, it's different."
"No it ain't." Lucille... "Carson, honey, life is like that ocean out there, it's deep and bountiful, and the waves just keep on comin'. Sometimes the waves get choppy, sometimes they smooth. You just got to ride them Carson, same as you always done." MAM you are brilliant! And then of course, " when the hard times come, just dance." Thank you for your beautiful illustrations and amazing storytelling. You have given me the gift of a beautiful beginning to the summer of 2014!
July 1, 2014
Mary AIice is a new author to me... why haven't I read her books before? I'm totally enjoying this book, there's still a few chapters to read but I couldn't wait to write this, I've got several of my friends buying her books!
This is book two in the series and the sisters are spending their last summer at Sea Breeze with Mamaw before she sells the place. Carson has lost her job. Dora is going through a divorce that's effecting her health.Her son has Asperger's and with the stress of it all she has a breakdown. The sisters rally around. Environmental issues are explored, a dolphin gets tangled in a fishing net and is severely injured. You get involved in her account as well.
This is a wonderful story of hurt and healing, sisters coming together, family becoming important again. Monroe has written in such a way that makes you feel like part of the family. I could smell the sea air, feel the sand between my toes. I would call this a relaxing read. Loved it!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is book two in the series and the sisters are spending their last summer at Sea Breeze with Mamaw before she sells the place. Carson has lost her job. Dora is going through a divorce that's effecting her health.Her son has Asperger's and with the stress of it all she has a breakdown. The sisters rally around. Environmental issues are explored, a dolphin gets tangled in a fishing net and is severely injured. You get involved in her account as well.
This is a wonderful story of hurt and healing, sisters coming together, family becoming important again. Monroe has written in such a way that makes you feel like part of the family. I could smell the sea air, feel the sand between my toes. I would call this a relaxing read. Loved it!
I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 7, 2016
Have you ever been drawn into a book? That is how I felt reading The Summer Wind by Mary Alice Monroe. The evocative descriptions transported me to the South Carolina beach, and the insightful characterizations made me feel as if I could visit Mamaw’s house and be welcomed with a glass of sweet tea. Even though this is book two of a trilogy, it really stands very well on its own, continuing the story of Marietta Muir (Mamaw) and her three adult granddaughters, half-sisters with the same father, who are just getting reacquainted. Mamaw has invited them to her home at the beach for the summer, knowing she will soon be moving, and hoping that Dora, Carson, and Harper will become friends. Romance, friendships, and family issues are woven together with storms, dolphins and sea turtles beautifully. A page turner which I just could not put down--highly recommended!
June 1, 2014
I do love a book set in the beautiful low country. And this book thrilled me with descriptions of an island storm, pluff mud, beaches, dolphins and more. But there is so much more than the setting;
the women in this book two of a trilogy were real and thought provoking. Their circumstances were those we have had or our dearest friends have had. Their feelings are our feelings. The main figure, the grandmother is loving and lovable and filled me tears and laughter as tries to rebuild old relationships from years past. Relationships of such great importance that she is willing to risk what her granddaughters think of her so she can accomplish the greater good- rebuild family. This is not just a summer beach read, it has a backbone that depicts strength of characterization so the story sticks with you long after the last page is completed!
the women in this book two of a trilogy were real and thought provoking. Their circumstances were those we have had or our dearest friends have had. Their feelings are our feelings. The main figure, the grandmother is loving and lovable and filled me tears and laughter as tries to rebuild old relationships from years past. Relationships of such great importance that she is willing to risk what her granddaughters think of her so she can accomplish the greater good- rebuild family. This is not just a summer beach read, it has a backbone that depicts strength of characterization so the story sticks with you long after the last page is completed!
July 15, 2014
If you’ve ever looked at my Goodreads list, you’ll know just how much I love Southern fiction, and novels that are located in and around Sullivan’s Island, in particular. I’ve read nearly everything Dorothea Benton Frank‘s ever written, for instance, and there’s nothing quite like a good, lazy, beachy summer read.
Whether or not The Summer Wind is a good, lazy, beachy summer read is, I guess, a subjective question. For me, it didn’t quite hit the mark.
...Read more of this review at fefferbooks.com.
Whether or not The Summer Wind is a good, lazy, beachy summer read is, I guess, a subjective question. For me, it didn’t quite hit the mark.
...Read more of this review at fefferbooks.com.
June 2, 2014
I was given an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What a great story! I finished this morning, yet the characters are still with me this evening (as I suspect they will be for some time). This was a story that made me laugh, made me cry, made me hopeful and made me want to make life slow down. This would make a perfect beach/pool read, as well as a great airplane book. I highly recommend to fans of Dorthea Benton Frank and Barbara Delinsky.
What a great story! I finished this morning, yet the characters are still with me this evening (as I suspect they will be for some time). This was a story that made me laugh, made me cry, made me hopeful and made me want to make life slow down. This would make a perfect beach/pool read, as well as a great airplane book. I highly recommend to fans of Dorthea Benton Frank and Barbara Delinsky.
July 9, 2014
A true beach read-three sisters, each with her own problems (check), a wise grandmother (check), and a domestic who's been in service forever who's also mighty wise (check), a hunky real estate guy (check), an awful husband and mother of one of the sisters (check) on Sullivan's Island for the summer.
Could have been and should have been more, but I will say that Monroe hits all the cliches and then comes back and whacks them again.
Could have been and should have been more, but I will say that Monroe hits all the cliches and then comes back and whacks them again.
June 17, 2014
Love, love, love this book and all other Mary Alice Monroe books. I am always in awe of how much emotion is captured in her books. She makes you feel what the characters feel. She is such a talented story teller and one of my absolute favorite authors. I will recommend this one to anyone who knows how to read! I was provided an advance copy by Netgalley.
January 7, 2020
I doubt I will be reading anymore MAM books. A couple is enough. They are easy too read, yes, but just way too sappy and unrealistic for me. This must have been another audio I picked up somewhere. She is a good writer, for sure, but just not my type of story. So many books, so little time. It's time to move on to another author.
July 28, 2022
I love the setting of these books-- Mary Alice Monroe describes the low country so beautifully I feel like I am there. I also appreciate her depiction of Nate-- I taught Autistic children for years, and the way she writes him is very well done.
And this book-- it just about broke my heart (that scene in the car with Mamaw and Lucille had the tears rolling).
And this book-- it just about broke my heart (that scene in the car with Mamaw and Lucille had the tears rolling).
October 8, 2017
Ok plot and bad writing. Do all these characters supposed to be insecure? Week, defensive and needy women.
July 15, 2021
This second book in the Lowcountry Summer series was fabulous. The second Muir sister Dora, is at a crossroads in her marriage. She feels her husband Cal hasn’t been supportive to her and her son, Nate who has Aspergers. Being away from him in the summer at the family beach house on Sullivan’s Island is helping her see things more clearly. It seems like he’s only interested in what Dora can do for him but not about her or their son’s feelings or anything else.
Nate has been going through a difficult time. He’s devastated that he held responsibility for Delphine’s (the dolphin who his Aunt Carson and him befriended) injuries that needed medical care. He’s scared of going in the water and being around dolphins. Dora’s sisters Harper and Carson have a great idea for Nate to attend a program about dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center for children with special needs. They think it will help him with his fears. The sisters have the idea for Carson to take Nate because they want Dora to take some time for herself, instead of focusing all her time and energy exclusively on Nate. She reluctantly agrees to let Nate go with Carson. She’s also reunited with her high school sweetheart Devlin. So it’s interesting to learn what decisions Dora will make for herself and Nate this summer relating to her marriage and her feelings for Devlin. I highly recommend this book and series.
Nate has been going through a difficult time. He’s devastated that he held responsibility for Delphine’s (the dolphin who his Aunt Carson and him befriended) injuries that needed medical care. He’s scared of going in the water and being around dolphins. Dora’s sisters Harper and Carson have a great idea for Nate to attend a program about dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center for children with special needs. They think it will help him with his fears. The sisters have the idea for Carson to take Nate because they want Dora to take some time for herself, instead of focusing all her time and energy exclusively on Nate. She reluctantly agrees to let Nate go with Carson. She’s also reunited with her high school sweetheart Devlin. So it’s interesting to learn what decisions Dora will make for herself and Nate this summer relating to her marriage and her feelings for Devlin. I highly recommend this book and series.
June 27, 2018
Very good book about family, love, and the various choices people must make in their lives. Although primarily Dora’s story, all three sisters, as well as their grandmother and Dora’s son, Nate, grow and change in the book, some more than others.
Dora realizes that her marriage is irreparable, and that she deserves a better relationship than she had with her husband. She also realizes, thanks to her sisters, that she wants and needs to improve her relationship with her son, so that she’s more than a teacher, rule enforcer, and disciplinarian.
Is Dora ready for another relationship with a man? Her first love is ready and willing, but is she?
Toward the end, Carson also faces some major changes, and she has some difficult decisions to make—especially for a woman who usually leaves when things get difficult.
Harper is looking for something, but she’s not sure what. Will she know it when she sees it?
Mamaw and Lucille also face difficult decisions and choices. Will the summer help them find their paths forward?
A wonderful addition to the series. Brava, Ms. Monroe!
Dora realizes that her marriage is irreparable, and that she deserves a better relationship than she had with her husband. She also realizes, thanks to her sisters, that she wants and needs to improve her relationship with her son, so that she’s more than a teacher, rule enforcer, and disciplinarian.
Is Dora ready for another relationship with a man? Her first love is ready and willing, but is she?
Toward the end, Carson also faces some major changes, and she has some difficult decisions to make—especially for a woman who usually leaves when things get difficult.
Harper is looking for something, but she’s not sure what. Will she know it when she sees it?
Mamaw and Lucille also face difficult decisions and choices. Will the summer help them find their paths forward?
A wonderful addition to the series. Brava, Ms. Monroe!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 15, 2021
In this sequel to the book, "The Summer Girls", we continue the story of three half-sisters spending a summer together at Sullivan's Island. In this book, the second in the series, we follow the lives of Harper, Carson, and Dora during the middle part of their summer back at Mamaw Muir's house. The girls, though different in so many ways, find how to love each other and lean on each other in the midst of their individual struggles. This is a wonderful continuation of the first book, and is a great summer or beach read! The author does a wonderful job of inviting you into the world that she created and keeps you interested in all of the characters. Although this is a great book that I recommend, I really recommend reading it as a part of the series. Definitely check this out!
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Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
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Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
May 9, 2020
This novel had been sitting on my bookshelf for years and I hadn't picked it up because it was the second of a series. In an effort to downsize, I decided to give it a shot (as I couldn't part with an unread book) and I am so glad I did! I was swept away to South Carolina, summertime, and allowing oneself to be transformed. There was a brief reference to "The Summer Girls", but this novel easily stands alone for those who haven't read the first in the series. It proved to be a perfect quarantine read- pleasant, uplifting, and hopeful when the world outside is filled with so much anxiety and fear.
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