What do you think?
Rate this book
The Summer We Started Over
Two sisters reconnect and pursue their dreams on the beautiful island of Nantucket, overcoming life’s challenges and finding new love, in this heartwarming and hopeful novel by New York Times bestselling author Nancy Thayer.
Eddie Grant is happy with her life and her work as a personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, one of the most famous and renowned romance authors in the business. But being a spectator to notoriety and glamour isn’t as fulfilling as she once thought. Thankfully, Eddie has the perfect excuse for a vacation: Her hardworking younger sister, Barrett, is opening her gift shop on Memorial Day weekend, and could use all the help she can get.
But going home to the beautiful island of Nantucket means facing the family’s difficult past. Shortly after the death of Eddie and Barrett’s brother, their mother left them and their father made the spontaneous decision to buy a small farm. Eddie stayed there for only a year before her family’s grief threatened to consume her as well, and had been living in Manhattan ever since. Now that she is back, Eddie must face all she left behind: her father’s increased eccentricities, which has led to a house bursting at the seams with books; her sister’s resentment over Eddie’s escape; and a past love connection, one that is still undeniable and complicated, all these years later. But the Grant sisters are nothing if not resilient and capable, opening a used bookstore in their father’s abandoned barn to manage his hoarding, and navigating the discovery of a long-buried family secret that will change all of them forever.
In The Summer We Started Over, beloved storyteller Nancy Thayer transports readers with a moving story about family, courage, and the resiliency of young women.
Eddie Grant is happy with her life and her work as a personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, one of the most famous and renowned romance authors in the business. But being a spectator to notoriety and glamour isn’t as fulfilling as she once thought. Thankfully, Eddie has the perfect excuse for a vacation: Her hardworking younger sister, Barrett, is opening her gift shop on Memorial Day weekend, and could use all the help she can get.
But going home to the beautiful island of Nantucket means facing the family’s difficult past. Shortly after the death of Eddie and Barrett’s brother, their mother left them and their father made the spontaneous decision to buy a small farm. Eddie stayed there for only a year before her family’s grief threatened to consume her as well, and had been living in Manhattan ever since. Now that she is back, Eddie must face all she left behind: her father’s increased eccentricities, which has led to a house bursting at the seams with books; her sister’s resentment over Eddie’s escape; and a past love connection, one that is still undeniable and complicated, all these years later. But the Grant sisters are nothing if not resilient and capable, opening a used bookstore in their father’s abandoned barn to manage his hoarding, and navigating the discovery of a long-buried family secret that will change all of them forever.
In The Summer We Started Over, beloved storyteller Nancy Thayer transports readers with a moving story about family, courage, and the resiliency of young women.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published May 7, 2024
1030 people are currently reading
25760 people want to read
About the author
Nancy Thayer
54 books4,065 followersNancy Thayer has published 35 novels, including Family Reunion and Secrets in Summer. She has lived on Nantucket Island year-round for 38 years with her husband Charley Walters. They have two children and five grandchildren.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 833 reviews
February 8, 2024
*I am incredibly grateful to have received this book ahead of schedule from NetGalley and the publisher in return for my unbiased review.*
I have looked at other reviews and I am honestly surprised by the number of 5 star reviews this book got. I am clearly in the minority but I do feel that when receiving these ARC books, that it is my duty to give an honest review based on my experience with the book.
I loved the cover of this book. It was beautiful and transported me straight to the beach. I also loved the Nantucket beach setting. I have never been to Nantucket and the descriptions make me want to visit. But…my love for this book ends there. I've read other books by Thayer and I liked them. They have that beachy, romantic feel that always puts me in a good mood. I was very disappointed with this one because it felt like it was written by an amateur instead of a veteran.
The plot is shallow. I feel like absolutely nothing happened in this book until about 75% of the way through and even then it was nothing to excite you. I kept thinking, where's the climax, the plot twist, anything exciting? It's just the hum-drum daily life of people on Nantucket in the summer. There's no tension, no anticipation, no angst. I don't need smut or spice to draw me to a romance but I do need chemistry. I felt no chemistry between the characters. ZERO! This book was almost G rated, it was so bland. The dialogue felt superficial. They spoke words but nothing that mattered. Barrett is caught between Paul and Drew but other than the fact that you have three people in a relationship there was nothing to indicate this was a love triangle. There was so much repetition…words to add to a word count but not words that added to the value of the story. It took way too long to connect characters you are told about in the beginning. I kept asking what the point of Dove’s story was. Eventually, you get a connection but by the time you get it, it feels too late.
I felt no connection to these characters. They were bland. They lacked depth. They felt older than their years. They are supposed to be in their late 20's but felt more like late 50's or 60's. Their dialogue, interactions, and even the descriptions of their behavior did not feel like that of a 20-something young woman. This felt like it was written by an 80 year old... probably because it was. The author’s lack of understanding of this age group was glaringly obvious. She has absolutely no idea how 20 year olds think, talk or interact with others in the 2020’s. It felt unrealistic, juvenile and immature. I feel like the story could have been better if it would have focused on characters later in life. Characters that she could have maybe related a little better to.
I feel bad saying this because Nancy Thayer has been a very successful novelist for most of her life and I am nothing more than a reader. But…I could not connect with this story or the characters. Maybe it's time to put the cover on the typewriter and just enjoy some retirement days.
I have looked at other reviews and I am honestly surprised by the number of 5 star reviews this book got. I am clearly in the minority but I do feel that when receiving these ARC books, that it is my duty to give an honest review based on my experience with the book.
I loved the cover of this book. It was beautiful and transported me straight to the beach. I also loved the Nantucket beach setting. I have never been to Nantucket and the descriptions make me want to visit. But…my love for this book ends there. I've read other books by Thayer and I liked them. They have that beachy, romantic feel that always puts me in a good mood. I was very disappointed with this one because it felt like it was written by an amateur instead of a veteran.
The plot is shallow. I feel like absolutely nothing happened in this book until about 75% of the way through and even then it was nothing to excite you. I kept thinking, where's the climax, the plot twist, anything exciting? It's just the hum-drum daily life of people on Nantucket in the summer. There's no tension, no anticipation, no angst. I don't need smut or spice to draw me to a romance but I do need chemistry. I felt no chemistry between the characters. ZERO! This book was almost G rated, it was so bland. The dialogue felt superficial. They spoke words but nothing that mattered. Barrett is caught between Paul and Drew but other than the fact that you have three people in a relationship there was nothing to indicate this was a love triangle. There was so much repetition…words to add to a word count but not words that added to the value of the story. It took way too long to connect characters you are told about in the beginning. I kept asking what the point of Dove’s story was. Eventually, you get a connection but by the time you get it, it feels too late.
I felt no connection to these characters. They were bland. They lacked depth. They felt older than their years. They are supposed to be in their late 20's but felt more like late 50's or 60's. Their dialogue, interactions, and even the descriptions of their behavior did not feel like that of a 20-something young woman. This felt like it was written by an 80 year old... probably because it was. The author’s lack of understanding of this age group was glaringly obvious. She has absolutely no idea how 20 year olds think, talk or interact with others in the 2020’s. It felt unrealistic, juvenile and immature. I feel like the story could have been better if it would have focused on characters later in life. Characters that she could have maybe related a little better to.
I feel bad saying this because Nancy Thayer has been a very successful novelist for most of her life and I am nothing more than a reader. But…I could not connect with this story or the characters. Maybe it's time to put the cover on the typewriter and just enjoy some retirement days.
April 23, 2024
The Summer We Started Over by Nancy Thayer is a women’s fiction title with of course romance involved in the story. Set in beautiful Nantucket which the author is known for the story in The Summer We Started Over does change the point of view between the main characters.
Eddie Grant left home years before and has enjoyed her life away from Nantucket but knows now if the time she needs to return to her family. Eddie has been working as a personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, a famous romance author, for the last few years without a vacation so when her younger sister, Barrett, says she needs her she let’s Dinah know she’ll be heading home to Nantucket.
Barrett chose to stay in Nantucket with her father but has always wanted something of her own to help keep her there. Now is finally the time Barrett is taking that step and opening up her own shop in town and with their father’s increasing eccentricities Barrett hopes that the visit from Eddie will also do him some good while she is busy with her new store but before they know it Dinah Lavender is also inviting herself along to Nantucket for the summer.
While I haven’t read every novel from author Nancy Thayer I have read quite a few and have never been disappointed in the excursions to Nantucket. The story in The Summer We Started Over is what it sounds to be, sisters starting over and finding themselves and their relationship once again. With a beautiful setting and interesting characters I couldn’t help but become engaged in this story right away and of course enjoyed the entire ride. Definitely an author I’d recommend reading and will return to myself in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Eddie Grant left home years before and has enjoyed her life away from Nantucket but knows now if the time she needs to return to her family. Eddie has been working as a personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, a famous romance author, for the last few years without a vacation so when her younger sister, Barrett, says she needs her she let’s Dinah know she’ll be heading home to Nantucket.
Barrett chose to stay in Nantucket with her father but has always wanted something of her own to help keep her there. Now is finally the time Barrett is taking that step and opening up her own shop in town and with their father’s increasing eccentricities Barrett hopes that the visit from Eddie will also do him some good while she is busy with her new store but before they know it Dinah Lavender is also inviting herself along to Nantucket for the summer.
While I haven’t read every novel from author Nancy Thayer I have read quite a few and have never been disappointed in the excursions to Nantucket. The story in The Summer We Started Over is what it sounds to be, sisters starting over and finding themselves and their relationship once again. With a beautiful setting and interesting characters I couldn’t help but become engaged in this story right away and of course enjoyed the entire ride. Definitely an author I’d recommend reading and will return to myself in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
February 20, 2024
If anyone can take us to Nantucket, it’s Nancy Thayer. Every time I read one of her books, I want to visit Nantucket since I’ve never been. Sounds like a magical place and a place I would love to visit. I could totally work in Barrett’s gift shop or even Eddie and her dad’s barn selling used books. I loved this story. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review. To be published April 2024.
March 23, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for an early copy of The Summer We Started Over. The cover is typical Nancy Thayer, bringing to mind the beautiful beach and happy thoughts but the book was not like hers at all. So disappointed, could not wait for it to end. Written for teenagers, it was not an adult book at all. What happened? Every chapter was more ridiculous than the next, I’m sorry to say but nothing like her past books which were addicting.
August 5, 2024
I love reading books in the summer set on beautiful Nantucket with its beaches and summertime vibes. Within the pages of this wonderful gem are the most warm, charming characters you can’t help but enjoy reading about. You have sisters reconnecting, an introvert writer dad, a famous romance novelist + two hunky, adorable carpenters. What an incredibly fun story centered on relationships; -family, friendship and romance. Plus new beginnings and books bringing people together. Nancy Thayer’s stories put me in mind of Elin Hilderbrand’s Nantucket books. I loved it! ❥ 5 stars — Pub. 4/23/24
September 11, 2025
4.5 star. I think as I get older I enjoy Nancy Thayer's books more. This was the kind of romance I like. More on romance and story lines and less on sex. I think this is my third book by her and I have enjoyed them all.
I won this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
I won this book through a Goodreads Giveaway.
March 11, 2024
I had high hopes for this one based on the synopsis and author, but it pains me to say that it somewhat missed the mark.
I loved the location of Nantucket and felt that the author brought it to life. Another bright spot was the supporting character, Dinah Lavender. Although she was not a MC, she stole the whole show for me. Her character had depth, uniqueness, and was completely delightful. Dinah's overall storyline also fit who she was as a character.
What lacked a little for me was the writing and MCs character development. There were scenes/parts of the story that abruptly ended prior to a new one beginning. It felt disjointed and messed with the flow. In terms of the MCs, I wasn't as invested in them as I would have liked. Eddie had potential as a twenty something still trying to find herself, but I found Barrett a little immature for her age, which could have been due to her dialogue. Neither of their romances were all that believable and felt forced and/or rushed.
Ultimately, this was a hard story for me to rate. I liked the 'idea' of it and found bright spots throughout, while something was still missing.
Thank you NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and the author for a copy of free e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the location of Nantucket and felt that the author brought it to life. Another bright spot was the supporting character, Dinah Lavender. Although she was not a MC, she stole the whole show for me. Her character had depth, uniqueness, and was completely delightful. Dinah's overall storyline also fit who she was as a character.
What lacked a little for me was the writing and MCs character development. There were scenes/parts of the story that abruptly ended prior to a new one beginning. It felt disjointed and messed with the flow. In terms of the MCs, I wasn't as invested in them as I would have liked. Eddie had potential as a twenty something still trying to find herself, but I found Barrett a little immature for her age, which could have been due to her dialogue. Neither of their romances were all that believable and felt forced and/or rushed.
Ultimately, this was a hard story for me to rate. I liked the 'idea' of it and found bright spots throughout, while something was still missing.
Thank you NetGalley, Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine, and the author for a copy of free e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 12, 2024
I have always been a Nancy Thayer fan. I fell in love with her books after first reading Elin Hildebrand books set on Nantucket. I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy this book at all and it was hard to even get through. The characters did not have chemistry, the story really had no build up and then would suddenly progress really fast. While reading I just kept asking myself where did that even come from? A very odd read.
April 22, 2024
Oh, what a wonderful few days I spent in Nantucket, thanks to Nancy Thayer’s newest book, The Summer We Started Over—a visit to Straight Wharf and Brant Point, real places that I’ll probably never visit in person, but the author’s descriptions gave me the whole experience: the sights, the sounds, and the smells of this unique New England attraction. Sisters Eddie and Barrett have not had the easiest life. Their mother abandoned them, their brother was killed in an accident, and dad seems to be walking under a cloud of grief. But this hope-filled story is anything but sad.
There is so much to love in this book, especially for a bibliophile. Eddie is the personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, a successful and famous romance author. William, the father, is a retired professor and a writer, too. There are quaint coffee shops, boutique gift shops, and even a barn that is renovated into a bookstore. And there is romance, too.
At the end, I could only sigh, for this is a story that gives us the chance to relax, to release our troubles, and to remember happier days from our pasts. Most of all, it’s a truly beautiful and touching narrative about a family’s strength and how their loyalty and their love carry them through even the worst of life’s storms.
There is so much to love in this book, especially for a bibliophile. Eddie is the personal assistant to Dinah Lavender, a successful and famous romance author. William, the father, is a retired professor and a writer, too. There are quaint coffee shops, boutique gift shops, and even a barn that is renovated into a bookstore. And there is romance, too.
At the end, I could only sigh, for this is a story that gives us the chance to relax, to release our troubles, and to remember happier days from our pasts. Most of all, it’s a truly beautiful and touching narrative about a family’s strength and how their loyalty and their love carry them through even the worst of life’s storms.
September 3, 2024
This is another Nantucket summer beach read. When Elin Hilderbrand or Mary Kay Andrews writes those, I tend to like them a lot. This one fell pretty flat for me though. The writing itself here was good. I finished the book and I didn't loathe opening it up. I was mildly entertained reading about a life that I know I'll never live (I'm NOT a beach girlie lol). However, the prose was repetitive to the point that I had to make sure I wasn't rereading the same sentences a few times... but it turns out I wasn't--the sentences were just exactly the same a few pages apart..? I also felt like nothing actually happened in this book. There was a little bit of drama toward the end with Dove, but no real tension or climactic scenes. Everything kept working out a suspiciously well and I never felt like any of the characters had any kind of real responsibilities or challenges so there was very little development. I found this book to be very forgettable, but I think that, as reviews are indicating, there is an audience for this... it's just not me. *sigh*
April 22, 2024
Name: The Summer We Started Over
Author: Nancy Thayer
Publisher: Brilliance Publishing
Narrator: Tavia Gilbert
Brief Summary: Follows a family living on Nantucket over the course of a life-changing summer
What I Enjoyed: The characters were very well developed. The story was similar to an Elin Hildebrand novel or a Debbie Macomber novel. I felt like I was in the story.
This book was super cute and if you love Elin Hilderbrand you will enjoy this book as well. Tavia Gilbert does an amazing job narrating this story, and I am happy she narrated this book because she is on my list of favorite audiobook narrators!! Looking forward to Nancy Thayer's next book!
Many Thanks again to NetGalley and the publisher Brilliance Audio for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
********
If you are interested in seeing more of my reviews and other content feel free to connect with me here <3:
https://linktr.ee/bookreviewsbyjules (links to my Instagram, Goodreads, TikTok, Storygraph, My blog and Substack newsletter, etc)
If you are a publisher or author who has questions about my reviews (as well as questions about my stats, reach or engagement), please free to email me. I am also open to requests for book reviews from authors or publishers. Thank you again for taking time to read my review, and I hope you have a wonderful day!
Author: Nancy Thayer
Publisher: Brilliance Publishing
Narrator: Tavia Gilbert
Brief Summary: Follows a family living on Nantucket over the course of a life-changing summer
What I Enjoyed: The characters were very well developed. The story was similar to an Elin Hildebrand novel or a Debbie Macomber novel. I felt like I was in the story.
This book was super cute and if you love Elin Hilderbrand you will enjoy this book as well. Tavia Gilbert does an amazing job narrating this story, and I am happy she narrated this book because she is on my list of favorite audiobook narrators!! Looking forward to Nancy Thayer's next book!
Many Thanks again to NetGalley and the publisher Brilliance Audio for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest review.
********
If you are interested in seeing more of my reviews and other content feel free to connect with me here <3:
https://linktr.ee/bookreviewsbyjules (links to my Instagram, Goodreads, TikTok, Storygraph, My blog and Substack newsletter, etc)
If you are a publisher or author who has questions about my reviews (as well as questions about my stats, reach or engagement), please free to email me. I am also open to requests for book reviews from authors or publishers. Thank you again for taking time to read my review, and I hope you have a wonderful day!
February 24, 2024
Eddie Grant loves her life as a personal assistant to famous author Dinah Lavender. She loves the hustle and bustle of New York City and as someone who eventually wants to write her own novel, Eddie finds working for Dinah affords her great opportunities. There are times, however, she misses the sweet air of home, her ex-boyfriend, and her family. When Nantucket and her family call her home for the summer, she decides to go. This choice will forever change her life.
The sweet simplicity of this book is what I truly loved about this book. It reminds us all about the importance of friendship, family, and finding happiness. The Summer We Started Over is the perfect summer beach read. Thank you NetGalley for an arc of Nancy Thayer's newest novel.
The sweet simplicity of this book is what I truly loved about this book. It reminds us all about the importance of friendship, family, and finding happiness. The Summer We Started Over is the perfect summer beach read. Thank you NetGalley for an arc of Nancy Thayer's newest novel.
June 18, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
A fun, romantic story set in Nantucket. I will read just about anything set on Nantucket. The characters are fairly well portrayed and undergo a lot of change throughout the story, although there are a couple of characters who are just unlikable. There are some surprises along the way in the plot and some heart tugs. The writing is typical Nancy Thayer, although maybe a little bit more saccharine than usual.
A fun, light read.
A fun, romantic story set in Nantucket. I will read just about anything set on Nantucket. The characters are fairly well portrayed and undergo a lot of change throughout the story, although there are a couple of characters who are just unlikable. There are some surprises along the way in the plot and some heart tugs. The writing is typical Nancy Thayer, although maybe a little bit more saccharine than usual.
A fun, light read.
April 11, 2024
I love reading Nancy Thayer’s books and I think a lot of it has to do with the location. The Summer We Started Over takes place in Nantucket which sounds like the most beautiful and mesmerizing place to me. I’ve never been there but it’s always been on my bucket list along with Martha’s Vineyard. This is the story of 2 sisters, Eddie and Barrett, who have experienced a troubled past. Their mother has abandoned them and their father and later their brother dies in an accident. Their dad moves them to Nantucket to a little farmhouse in hopes of putting their past behind them and to make a fresh start. There are parts to this story that I found a little comical but yet there are parts that are extremely sad. The fact that the father is a book hoarder and has the farmhouse completely crammed with books in every nook and cranny imaginable was a little funny to me. I can definitely see this happening to someone who is a book lover like myself. There is also a part to the storyline that is very sad where the girls had to anticipate the death of their childhood friend. She was suffering from liver failure due to excessive drinking and the girls try to prepare her young son for a life without his mother. This was an emotional part for me as I too lost a close friend because of this. I found myself crying so I recommend having tissues handy! Overall it’s a really beautiful story about a family’s strength, about being there for each other and about finding love and moving on with your life. I’d like to thank Emma Thomasch, Assoc. Marketing Manager at Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for accepting my request to read and NetGalley for the arc. I thoroughly enjoyed this, I give it a 5 star rating and highly recommend it to other readers!
May 20, 2024
I’m sad to give this book only 2 stars because I’m usually all about a Nantucket in the summertime read. This one was boring, the so-called love stories were as dull as dirt. These two girls didn’t talk or act like any 20 somethings that I know! It was ridiculous. The whole storyline with Dove was quite odd also, both sisters seemed to be so juvenile and jealous regarding her, it made no sense. For whatever reason, I had the worst time with the name Eddie for one of the sisters. I kept thinking it was a man and confusing her with her “boyfriend”. I suppose that shows how forgettable she was. I’ve enjoyed many Thayer books over the years but not this one. It may be time for her to try to stop writing in the voices of young people and move to an older crowd. 🤷🏻♀️
May 18, 2024
The plot is great with wonderful pacing and events. Unfortunately, that's not enough to make up for the poor writing: constant background info dumps; so much repeated conversations and narrative sentences that many times I though I was rereading sections by accident; male protagonists so thoroughly without personalities that they could be switched and no one would notice.
June 19, 2024
“My date was fine,” Barrett said. “Drew’s nice. And handsome.”
“Wow. You really like him.”
This is an example of the dialogue between the characters in this book. Sisters in their late twenties. I am in my late 40s and have never called a man handsome. The dad is 55 and written like he’s in his 70s. This author just doesn’t get it. I’m turning it in at 30% DNF.
“Wow. You really like him.”
This is an example of the dialogue between the characters in this book. Sisters in their late twenties. I am in my late 40s and have never called a man handsome. The dad is 55 and written like he’s in his 70s. This author just doesn’t get it. I’m turning it in at 30% DNF.
April 26, 2024
This book is a beautiful story about finding yourself again as an adult and figuring out your life. The characters in this book are amazing and you will fall in love with them, as I did. I didn't want this book to end !!!!!!!!!!
April 28, 2024
I keep saying “never again” and then I’m drawn in by the book cover and enticing synopsis. And again, just like the last 3 books, that’s all there is - a pretty cover and no substance. Sometimes it’s better to quit while you’re ahead.
September 9, 2024
Eddie Grant, a personal assistant to famous romance author Dinah Lavender, is content but increasingly unfulfilled by her glamorous life in Manhattan. She decides to take a break and help her younger sister Barrett open a gift shop on Nantucket. Returning home forces Eddie to confront their difficult family past, including their brother's death, their mother's abandonment, and their father's eccentric hoarding. Eddie faces her sister’s resentment, an unresolved past romance, and the discovery of a buried family secret. The Grant sisters prove their resilience by opening a bookstore and coming to terms with their family's history.
This would be a great beach read. I really loved all the characters and the little world they lived in. I wanted to move to this small town and become part of their lives. However I felt character development was a bit lacking and I wanted to know them on more than just a surface level.
This would be a great beach read. I really loved all the characters and the little world they lived in. I wanted to move to this small town and become part of their lives. However I felt character development was a bit lacking and I wanted to know them on more than just a surface level.
June 19, 2024
3.5 stars
The Summer We Started Over, by Nancy Thayer is a slower-paced family drama that takes place on Nantucket Island during summer months. This is not an action-packed story, but rather a perusal of realistic life events filled with daily struggles, personal successes, devastating losses, mundane moments and second chances. Though parts are a bit simplistic and silly, there is also a sweet, cozy vibe that makes for a comforting read.
The Summer We Started Over is the story of Eddie Grant who left home and headed to New York City to work in publishing, but ended up as the personal assistant to the famous romance author, Dinah Lavender. She loves her work, but is a bit burnt out. Her sister, Barrett, stayed home, caring for her dad, but is now on the brink of opening her shop, Nantucket Blues, a lifelong dream of hers. When Barrett asks Eddie to come home and help care for father who has become reclusive after recent losses, Eddie makes the decision to stay on Nantucket for the summer. This story has romance, dating troubles, a strong sibling friendship, heartbreak and loss, found family and cozy elements like a pompous horse, a sweet old dog, the opening of a second hand book shop in their backyard and two authors with books in progress.
I will say that the sisters seemed a bit socially awkward and self-centered in certain moments. They were definitely immature at times, particularly Barrett. I also found Barrett’s choices in her relationship with Drew rather aggravating. It is a pet-peeve of mine when people don’t speak up and clearly communicate, or permit bad behavior. The latter romance happened very suddenly and got serious very quickly. Dinah’s “stalker” situation was silly and unrealistic, but also, eventually kind of sweet. Ultimately, there were quite a few issues with this story and it felt somewhat juvenile for a seasoned author, but there was something appealing about it’s easy-going demeanor and pace that was quietly delightful.
The Summer We Started Over, by Nancy Thayer is a slower-paced family drama that takes place on Nantucket Island during summer months. This is not an action-packed story, but rather a perusal of realistic life events filled with daily struggles, personal successes, devastating losses, mundane moments and second chances. Though parts are a bit simplistic and silly, there is also a sweet, cozy vibe that makes for a comforting read.
The Summer We Started Over is the story of Eddie Grant who left home and headed to New York City to work in publishing, but ended up as the personal assistant to the famous romance author, Dinah Lavender. She loves her work, but is a bit burnt out. Her sister, Barrett, stayed home, caring for her dad, but is now on the brink of opening her shop, Nantucket Blues, a lifelong dream of hers. When Barrett asks Eddie to come home and help care for father who has become reclusive after recent losses, Eddie makes the decision to stay on Nantucket for the summer. This story has romance, dating troubles, a strong sibling friendship, heartbreak and loss, found family and cozy elements like a pompous horse, a sweet old dog, the opening of a second hand book shop in their backyard and two authors with books in progress.
I will say that the sisters seemed a bit socially awkward and self-centered in certain moments. They were definitely immature at times, particularly Barrett. I also found Barrett’s choices in her relationship with Drew rather aggravating. It is a pet-peeve of mine when people don’t speak up and clearly communicate, or permit bad behavior. The latter romance happened very suddenly and got serious very quickly. Dinah’s “stalker” situation was silly and unrealistic, but also, eventually kind of sweet. Ultimately, there were quite a few issues with this story and it felt somewhat juvenile for a seasoned author, but there was something appealing about it’s easy-going demeanor and pace that was quietly delightful.
August 29, 2024
Not my favorite from her, kinda slow and didn’t really get the point of the story until the end but I love Nantucket so I still enjoyed it. The cover of the book was really pretty!
February 19, 2024
Thanks Netgalley for allowing me to read this book. Eddie is thrilled to be back home in Nantucket with her father and sister. While hone, she meets her ex boyfriend who she us still in love with. I enjoyed this book.
January 27, 2024
Absolutely loved Nancy Thayer’s latest. A multi- generational story with a beautiful setting makes it the perfect beach (or anytime) read.
May 14, 2024
One of Nancy Thayer's best, in my opinion. Usual delightful scenes of Nantucket, but also filled with family drama, emotional upheaval, sadness, and ultimately joy.
May 21, 2024
Cute story line, horribly written. I felt like I was reading bullet points about the story, and nothing flowed. I usually love Nancy Thayer, but this one fell really flat for me.
didn-t-finish
August 10, 2024Another book I DNF. I read the first few chapters and it seemed very rushed. The dialogue was very unrealistic/ hokey. Not up to Thayer’s usual standards for her beach reads.
March 6, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Summer We Started Over, by Nancy Thayer, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Sisters Eddie and Barret are reconnecting this summer in Nantucket. This book has a lot going on, romance, friendship, books, loss, sun. and more. An enjoyable read.
June 5, 2024
DNF. Made it 100 pages in. The characters lacked personality and the conversations were so boring. Couldn't make it through this one.
May 21, 2025
Bought a signed copy of this book on Nantucket when visiting last year. Unfortunately, that is the only nice thing I can say.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 833 reviews