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A Novel Summer
🎧Run Time = 9 hours & 7 minutes
⭐"The perfect summer beach read! Rival bookshops, second chance romance, friend drama, it was the perfect book to curl up and escape to the Cape.”—Pamela Kelley, bestselling author of Bookshop by the Bay
A “rich, satisfying, and surprising” read (Adriana Trigiani): Shelby Archer’s first novel became a bestseller, but the story she wrote left her Cape Cod hometown feeling betrayed. When she returns to manage a beloved bookshop, Shelby must choose between repairing the past or chasing a career that could cost her everything.
⭐“Jamie Brenner has outdone herself” (Kristy Woodson Harvey).
Author Shelby Archer found inspiration for her first novel while living on the picturesque shores of Provincetown on Cape Cod. When she comes to the town to celebrate her new bestseller, she is expecting a warm homecoming. But instead she is confronted with the cold shoulders of friends and neighbors who feel exposed and betrayed.
Heartbroken, Shelby tries to move on and focus on her next novel. But then an unexpected call comes: her dear friend who owns the beloved Land's End bookshop needs help for the summer. Shelby reluctantly returns to the Cape to manage the store.
Back at the beach, Shelby sets her focus on the tiny seaside shop, getting lost in the shelves of steamy romance novels and dusty classics and trying to right the wrongs of her past. With every page turned and every customer served, Shelby comes closer to gaining back the trust of those she hurt. But as her manuscript deadline nears, she is again forced to choose between her own success and a second chance at love and belonging.
⭐"The perfect summer beach read! Rival bookshops, second chance romance, friend drama, it was the perfect book to curl up and escape to the Cape.”—Pamela Kelley, bestselling author of Bookshop by the Bay
A “rich, satisfying, and surprising” read (Adriana Trigiani): Shelby Archer’s first novel became a bestseller, but the story she wrote left her Cape Cod hometown feeling betrayed. When she returns to manage a beloved bookshop, Shelby must choose between repairing the past or chasing a career that could cost her everything.
⭐“Jamie Brenner has outdone herself” (Kristy Woodson Harvey).
Author Shelby Archer found inspiration for her first novel while living on the picturesque shores of Provincetown on Cape Cod. When she comes to the town to celebrate her new bestseller, she is expecting a warm homecoming. But instead she is confronted with the cold shoulders of friends and neighbors who feel exposed and betrayed.
Heartbroken, Shelby tries to move on and focus on her next novel. But then an unexpected call comes: her dear friend who owns the beloved Land's End bookshop needs help for the summer. Shelby reluctantly returns to the Cape to manage the store.
Back at the beach, Shelby sets her focus on the tiny seaside shop, getting lost in the shelves of steamy romance novels and dusty classics and trying to right the wrongs of her past. With every page turned and every customer served, Shelby comes closer to gaining back the trust of those she hurt. But as her manuscript deadline nears, she is again forced to choose between her own success and a second chance at love and belonging.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published July 16, 2024
214 people are currently reading
20915 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Brenner
27 books1,658 followersJamie Brenner is the author of The Wedding Sisters, The USA TODAY bestseller The Forever Summer, and several other beach books. Jamie's short story "Gold Party" (Blackstone Publishing) is currently in development as a feature film.
After raising two daughters in New York City, Jamie now lives in Bucks County, PA -- the inspiration for her next book THE WEEKEND CRASHERS (November 4, 2025) about a mother-daughter knitting retreat gone awry.
Jamie grew up on the blockbuster novels by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, the gothic horror of Anne Rice, and political thrillers by Nelson DeMille. Her dream novel combines all three.
Follow Jamie on instagram @jamiebrennerwrites
After raising two daughters in New York City, Jamie now lives in Bucks County, PA -- the inspiration for her next book THE WEEKEND CRASHERS (November 4, 2025) about a mother-daughter knitting retreat gone awry.
Jamie grew up on the blockbuster novels by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, the gothic horror of Anne Rice, and political thrillers by Nelson DeMille. Her dream novel combines all three.
Follow Jamie on instagram @jamiebrennerwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 586 reviews
July 5, 2024
This story sounded like a great beach read. Three friends who drift apart after college, meet up 3 years later. Shelby has published her first book. It is fiction- but the characters are loosely based on her friends from college- Hunter and Colleen. Colleen owns a bookstore in Providence, so that is where Shelby kicks off her book tour.
I decided to read this and get a quick break from thrillers.
Well it was almost a DNF for me.
This sounded like it would be the perfect read. However, I could not connect with any of the main characters. The interaction and dialogue was not very deep. By the end of the book I felt that I didn’t know them any better than I had at the beginning.
There were a lot of characters introduced. I also felt like every trope was used and it was too much. The romance is very abrupt with very little build up.
The other issue was how disjointed the book was- there are no transitions in this book. Between the story being told by multiple POV’s with no distinction between them, and even jumping around to what is happening at the moment- it all just felt forced and jarring. There is a glaring lack of communication between any of the characters! This could have been a much deeper, relatable story if they communicated! (And also shorter!)
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I decided to read this and get a quick break from thrillers.
Well it was almost a DNF for me.
This sounded like it would be the perfect read. However, I could not connect with any of the main characters. The interaction and dialogue was not very deep. By the end of the book I felt that I didn’t know them any better than I had at the beginning.
There were a lot of characters introduced. I also felt like every trope was used and it was too much. The romance is very abrupt with very little build up.
The other issue was how disjointed the book was- there are no transitions in this book. Between the story being told by multiple POV’s with no distinction between them, and even jumping around to what is happening at the moment- it all just felt forced and jarring. There is a glaring lack of communication between any of the characters! This could have been a much deeper, relatable story if they communicated! (And also shorter!)
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for the ARC. This is my honest and voluntary review.
July 12, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is my 5th Jamie Brenner read. Some of her novels have been in the 4 and 5-star category for me.
But not this title.
This was the story of three adult women- Colleen, Hunter, and Shelby who were once close but life has pulled them apart. Eventually, one of them finds herself needing her friends' assistance.
One was pretty. One was smart. One was a borderline fool.
Oh wait... that's a K.T. Oslin song that my mother used to listen to on repeat.
My very random thoughts:
I like second chances. I don't mind miscommunication. But when a character or two or even three acts childish repeatedly over and over, I start looking for the end of the story to come quickly.
Hunter and Shelby spend most of the book fighting and that conflict helps spur them both to make certain choices in this book. But I was impatient for them to get past it.
I wasn't too fond of the Shelby and Justin romance. They spend most of the novel with different people. I wasn't feeling the vibes of wanting two characters to rekindle their romance.
It was a strange choice not to have Colleen as one of the POVs. Given some of her scenes with Hunter and Shelby, I craved what was in her head.
Shelby didn't seem very bright for someone who wants to make it as an author. I found it unconvincing that she kept playing innocent as to why her friends were so mad about the books she was writing.
A real hit and miss for me.
Expected Publication Date 16/07/24
Goodreads Review 12/07/24
#ANovelSummer #NetGalley
This is my 5th Jamie Brenner read. Some of her novels have been in the 4 and 5-star category for me.
But not this title.
This was the story of three adult women- Colleen, Hunter, and Shelby who were once close but life has pulled them apart. Eventually, one of them finds herself needing her friends' assistance.
One was pretty. One was smart. One was a borderline fool.
Oh wait... that's a K.T. Oslin song that my mother used to listen to on repeat.
My very random thoughts:
I like second chances. I don't mind miscommunication. But when a character or two or even three acts childish repeatedly over and over, I start looking for the end of the story to come quickly.
Hunter and Shelby spend most of the book fighting and that conflict helps spur them both to make certain choices in this book. But I was impatient for them to get past it.
I wasn't too fond of the Shelby and Justin romance. They spend most of the novel with different people. I wasn't feeling the vibes of wanting two characters to rekindle their romance.
It was a strange choice not to have Colleen as one of the POVs. Given some of her scenes with Hunter and Shelby, I craved what was in her head.
Shelby didn't seem very bright for someone who wants to make it as an author. I found it unconvincing that she kept playing innocent as to why her friends were so mad about the books she was writing.
A real hit and miss for me.
Expected Publication Date 16/07/24
Goodreads Review 12/07/24
#ANovelSummer #NetGalley
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2024
A NOVEL SUMMER centers around three friends Shelby, Hunter and Colleen. Shelby- an author. Colleen a book seller and shunted a publicist All with aspirations that still connect but separate them too.
This is a novel that has it all: ambitious and relatable characters, a compelling backstory, a beautiful setting, and a story that you fall in love with and can’t put down
Fans of romance will love the relationships, fans of the beach read will love the compelling plot and fans of literary fiction will enjoy Brenners prose
I’ve been a fan of Jamie Brenner since her first novel. I’ve had the opportunity to meet her and she is as delightful as her books Her love for her readers and booksellers shine through in this novel and as someone who identifies as both - I thank her
This novel has something for every reader and it should be in every beach bag this summer!!!
This is a novel that has it all: ambitious and relatable characters, a compelling backstory, a beautiful setting, and a story that you fall in love with and can’t put down
Fans of romance will love the relationships, fans of the beach read will love the compelling plot and fans of literary fiction will enjoy Brenners prose
I’ve been a fan of Jamie Brenner since her first novel. I’ve had the opportunity to meet her and she is as delightful as her books Her love for her readers and booksellers shine through in this novel and as someone who identifies as both - I thank her
This novel has something for every reader and it should be in every beach bag this summer!!!
June 20, 2024
When I think about a book to read on the beach this is exactly the type of book I’m picturing. It’s breezy and light, a beautiful summer setting and had characters that are dealing with some personal dramas that will keep me intrigued. It follows three women who are best friends and they’re all dealing with some sort of issue. Some are personal and some are within their little friend group but all were compelling for me. Shelby is an author and I always really enjoy reading books about writing and Colleen’s family owns a local bookstore so that aspect was fun as well. Hunter works in the literary field so the title is more than fitting and everything about the plot is a book lovers dream. Besides the friendship dynamics between the ladies there are some small romance subplots so a little something for everyone here. If you’re looking for a fast paced and enjoyable read to devour by the pool or on the beach this one would be a great choice.
July 17, 2024
As all three women and Justin muddle their way through the summer, new beginnings are happening for all of them. A NOVEL SUMMER would be the perfect addition to your beach bag. Secrets, mistakes, and revelations are plentiful in this wonderful story. I related to each woman’s story and struggles and felt like I learned from them as they handled secrets being revealed. There is so much heart in Jamie’s writing that I was left with a huge smile on my face and my heart very happy. All of the characters are very interesting and believable, so much so that I felt as if I had known them for a long time. Now I need to figure out how to fit more of Jamie’s books into my reading plans!
You can read my full review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
You can read my full review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
June 24, 2024
Perfect summer read — small beach town rallies behind local bookshop in the summer🥹
July 18, 2024
Review coming soon.
September 11, 2025
Turbūt vienas rečiausių kartų, kai šios leidyklos knyga negauna 5☆ iš manęs, nes esu tieisog romantikos mėgėja ir 99% knygų man yra būtent tokios, kokias mėgstu. Bet šį kartą šiai knygai pritrūko ir pačios romantikos, ir stipresnių veikėjų ir gal buvo visko daug ir taip lyg paviršiumi. Knyga puikiai tinka atostogoms, romantikos mėgėjoms, bet nebuvo tokia stipri, kad liktų įsimintina ir norėtųsi rekomenduoti.
July 29, 2024
2.5
This one is hard to rate because there is inherently so much wrong with it. I like this author so it was a disappointment to see that she thanked her editors who literally missed sentences that were repeated a page after the first one was written. It happens more than once and there’s certain factual errors that could have been confirmed by using a simple map.
But - the BEST PART of this book is that is bingeable. Despite its many issues I kept reading, hoping it woood redeem itself in the end.
The story is quite disjointed. There’s quite a bit written on clothing and labels and scene descriptions. I would have loved more time spent on the character development of all three friends. Colleen needed more of a voice since it was she that Shelby helped out all summer.
It was kind of like a romance novel with the non communication trope between friends. There was very little dialogue between friends and not enough time spent in each character.
And the friends? They spent very little time together despite the fact that Shelby was there for her friend. She texted her instead of spending time with her ? Aren’t they supposed to be best friends ?
The book does redeem itself in the end. Hunter has the biggest arc and I wound up liking her more than expected.
The girls sometimes acted like they were in high school instead of their late 20’s.
BUT friendships do have their ups and downs
Real friendships work it out even if it takes years.
But most of the book the girls just didn’t talk to each other but maybe if they had —- it could have been even better.
The setting in Provincetown didn’t really get its due either. It could have taken place on any beach town in the northeast. The flavor of this special place was missed and anything we didn’t know about it was explained to us.
When I read about a town I want to feel like I must go visit it! An author like Carley fortune is really good at making her books become a love letter to the location. I would have loved that here because Provincetown is very special.
My largest issue is with Mia storyline. I’m sorry. 75 she’s 17 and with the designated problem she had she would she been failing school by that point. Parents would notice before 17 and if they didn’t the school certainly would. However it IS fiction…
I just find it hard to believe that as BFFs Shelby never shared her plot ideas or books with her friends before it was published. Do writers actually do this ? And for it to happen not once but twice ?? Simply stated we could see this part of the book coming.
The good:
It’s a beach read
It’s an easy read
Good character arcs
A decent ending
I can’t possibly give this 3 stars myself but I’m sure people will love it.
Jamie Brenner has some great novels so this one is disappointing in comparison to her others.
PS: something I LOVED was the book OUTED publishers for leaning into booktok instead of quality books. THANKS JB !!! I totally support you in this
This one is hard to rate because there is inherently so much wrong with it. I like this author so it was a disappointment to see that she thanked her editors who literally missed sentences that were repeated a page after the first one was written. It happens more than once and there’s certain factual errors that could have been confirmed by using a simple map.
But - the BEST PART of this book is that is bingeable. Despite its many issues I kept reading, hoping it woood redeem itself in the end.
The story is quite disjointed. There’s quite a bit written on clothing and labels and scene descriptions. I would have loved more time spent on the character development of all three friends. Colleen needed more of a voice since it was she that Shelby helped out all summer.
It was kind of like a romance novel with the non communication trope between friends. There was very little dialogue between friends and not enough time spent in each character.
And the friends? They spent very little time together despite the fact that Shelby was there for her friend. She texted her instead of spending time with her ? Aren’t they supposed to be best friends ?
The book does redeem itself in the end. Hunter has the biggest arc and I wound up liking her more than expected.
The girls sometimes acted like they were in high school instead of their late 20’s.
BUT friendships do have their ups and downs
Real friendships work it out even if it takes years.
But most of the book the girls just didn’t talk to each other but maybe if they had —- it could have been even better.
The setting in Provincetown didn’t really get its due either. It could have taken place on any beach town in the northeast. The flavor of this special place was missed and anything we didn’t know about it was explained to us.
When I read about a town I want to feel like I must go visit it! An author like Carley fortune is really good at making her books become a love letter to the location. I would have loved that here because Provincetown is very special.
My largest issue is with Mia storyline. I’m sorry. 75 she’s 17 and with the designated problem she had she would she been failing school by that point. Parents would notice before 17 and if they didn’t the school certainly would. However it IS fiction…
I just find it hard to believe that as BFFs Shelby never shared her plot ideas or books with her friends before it was published. Do writers actually do this ? And for it to happen not once but twice ?? Simply stated we could see this part of the book coming.
The good:
It’s a beach read
It’s an easy read
Good character arcs
A decent ending
I can’t possibly give this 3 stars myself but I’m sure people will love it.
Jamie Brenner has some great novels so this one is disappointing in comparison to her others.
PS: something I LOVED was the book OUTED publishers for leaning into booktok instead of quality books. THANKS JB !!! I totally support you in this
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2024
The best Jamie Brenner book yet!
I love Jamie Brenner and her books. I really loved this one.
Three young women meet in college and form a strong bond. Still friends after college but now dealing with real life and real adulting.
Success comes quickly for Shelby as she publishes her first novel. Hunter, although secure with generational wealth, is jealous and wants her own success as an Editor. Colleen is thrilled to be running her family’s Lands End Bookstore until she has to face pregnancy with twins and bed rest.
So much to tell you but get the book in July, you’ll love it!
Thanks Edelweiss and Park Row. 😎
I love Jamie Brenner and her books. I really loved this one.
Three young women meet in college and form a strong bond. Still friends after college but now dealing with real life and real adulting.
Success comes quickly for Shelby as she publishes her first novel. Hunter, although secure with generational wealth, is jealous and wants her own success as an Editor. Colleen is thrilled to be running her family’s Lands End Bookstore until she has to face pregnancy with twins and bed rest.
So much to tell you but get the book in July, you’ll love it!
Thanks Edelweiss and Park Row. 😎
August 4, 2024
4 stars.
July 25, 2024
The story centers around three friends and the Lands End bookstore in Provincetown. Hunter, Shelby and Colleen spend summers together there through college and as college ends they go on separate journeys. Everything revolves around books - writing, selling, publishing and promoting, which I really enjoyed.
It was a little disjointed for me at times. The story at its base is about friendship and finding your true passion. I seemed to be drawn more to the secondary characters of Carmen and Mia than any of the main characters and Colleen was a whiny, pain in the ass.
It was a little disjointed for me at times. The story at its base is about friendship and finding your true passion. I seemed to be drawn more to the secondary characters of Carmen and Mia than any of the main characters and Colleen was a whiny, pain in the ass.
April 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
"A Novel Summer" by Jamie Brenner promises a beach read escape to the picturesque shores of Provincetown but falls short in execution. While the premise holds potential, the narrative struggles with coherence, jumping between numerous characters and lacking smooth transitions. This makes it difficult to follow and interrupts the flow of the story.
Additionally, as someone who grew up near Provicetown on Cape Cod, I find the lack of queer representation in a setting known for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity is disappointing. Provincetown's vibrant queer community feels conspicuously absent, overshadowed by a focus on straight characters. The failure to authentically capture the essence of P-Town detracts from the novel's credibility and sense of place.
Despite these shortcomings, the novel offers moments of charm as protagonist Shelby Archer navigates personal and professional challenges while managing a beloved bookstore. However, the overall experience is marred by disjointed storytelling and a missed opportunity to embrace the diversity and richness of the setting. For readers seeking a light summer read, "A Novel Summer" may provide moments of enjoyment, but those familiar with Provincetown's inclusive spirit may find themselves longing for a more authentic representation.
"A Novel Summer" by Jamie Brenner promises a beach read escape to the picturesque shores of Provincetown but falls short in execution. While the premise holds potential, the narrative struggles with coherence, jumping between numerous characters and lacking smooth transitions. This makes it difficult to follow and interrupts the flow of the story.
Additionally, as someone who grew up near Provicetown on Cape Cod, I find the lack of queer representation in a setting known for its LGBTQ+ inclusivity is disappointing. Provincetown's vibrant queer community feels conspicuously absent, overshadowed by a focus on straight characters. The failure to authentically capture the essence of P-Town detracts from the novel's credibility and sense of place.
Despite these shortcomings, the novel offers moments of charm as protagonist Shelby Archer navigates personal and professional challenges while managing a beloved bookstore. However, the overall experience is marred by disjointed storytelling and a missed opportunity to embrace the diversity and richness of the setting. For readers seeking a light summer read, "A Novel Summer" may provide moments of enjoyment, but those familiar with Provincetown's inclusive spirit may find themselves longing for a more authentic representation.
August 10, 2025
Šelbė, debiutuojanti rašytoja, sugrižta į Menkių kyšulį pristatyti savo pirmosios knygos. Tačiau greitai jos idilišką sugrįžimą aptemdo faktas, kad romanas, įkvėptas realių įvykių, įskaudina vieną iš jos artimiausių draugių. Situacija tampa dar sudėtingesnė, kai Šelbė nusprendžia likti miestelyje visai vasarai - ne tik rašyti antrosios knygos, bet ir pagelbėti draugei jos šeimos knygyne. O čia, kaip tyčia, netrūksta praeities šešėlių - nuo neišspręstų draugystės dilemų iki buvusio mylimojo, kuris niekur neišvyko ir, panašu, vis dar gali sujaukti Šelbės ateities planus.
Autorė subtiliai supynė kelias temas - kaip kūrėjo darbas gali paliesti kitus žmones labiau nei tikėtasi, kaip senos draugystės susiduria su neišvengiamais pokyčiais, ir kaip sunku atsispirti praeičiai, kai ji laukia už kampo. Šelbės istorija priminė lengvą romantinį filmą, tačiau su ja pačia, susigyventi man nepavyko. Kartais atrodė, kad antraplaniai veikėjai įdomesni už ją pačią, o jos neryžtingumas dažnai erzino.
Vis dėlto, Menkių kyšulio atmosfera - jaukus mažo miestelio gyvenimas, pajūrio kvapas, knygų lentynos ir santykiai, atgyjantys po metų tylos - suteikė istorijai to vasariško lengvumo, dėl kurio knygą tikrai malonu skaityti.
Manu, kas ji puikiai tiks tiems, kurie mėgsta ramius, romantiškus, mažo miestelio pasakojimus ir neieško gilių emocinių dramų.
Autorė subtiliai supynė kelias temas - kaip kūrėjo darbas gali paliesti kitus žmones labiau nei tikėtasi, kaip senos draugystės susiduria su neišvengiamais pokyčiais, ir kaip sunku atsispirti praeičiai, kai ji laukia už kampo. Šelbės istorija priminė lengvą romantinį filmą, tačiau su ja pačia, susigyventi man nepavyko. Kartais atrodė, kad antraplaniai veikėjai įdomesni už ją pačią, o jos neryžtingumas dažnai erzino.
Vis dėlto, Menkių kyšulio atmosfera - jaukus mažo miestelio gyvenimas, pajūrio kvapas, knygų lentynos ir santykiai, atgyjantys po metų tylos - suteikė istorijai to vasariško lengvumo, dėl kurio knygą tikrai malonu skaityti.
Manu, kas ji puikiai tiks tiems, kurie mėgsta ramius, romantiškus, mažo miestelio pasakojimus ir neieško gilių emocinių dramų.
July 11, 2024
I absolutely love Jamie Brenner’s books and A Novel Summer is one of her best. A love letter to female friendships, second chances and independent bookstores, Shelby, Hunter and Colleen will not leave my heart anytime soon.
Thank you to Park Row for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Park Row for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
August 23, 2024
4 Stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️
May 22, 2024
Advanced Book Review! Thank you @parkrowbooks and @netgalley for sending me this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
“A bestselling author finds love and second chances in the stacks of a quaint beach town bookshop.”
I love books that take place in small beach towns and I love books about bookstores so A Novel Summer by Jamie Brenner was a must read for me.
When Shelby Archer publishes her first novel based on her experiences living in Provincetown on Cape Cod during her college summers, she’s disappointed to find out that some of her friends feel exposed and betrayed by her book. But when one of her friends needs help for the summer running her family’s bookstore back in Provincetown, Shelby returns to assist and try to resolve things. As Shelby reconnects with old friends and old flames, she also works to save her friend’s family independent bookstore from both natural disaster and a bookstore chain that has recently come to town.
This is such a summer beach read and makes me want to travel to all the small towns on the Cape. I love the authors and book references and the talk about writing, editing and the publishing world. While this book does have romantic notes in it, it’s really a book about friendship and coming home. Woven through the story is a commentary on the impacts of climate change, especially on the smaller, coastal communities, through Justin’s career and some of the events that take place.
Also, Shelby and her friend go to “a bar called the Library. It had bookshelf-lined walls and cognac-colored velvet armchairs.” Is this real? Can we go there?
I’ve read a few of Jamie Brenner’s books and I was excited to go back to Provincetown with this one. I’m excited to go back and read more of her backlist.
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
“A bestselling author finds love and second chances in the stacks of a quaint beach town bookshop.”
I love books that take place in small beach towns and I love books about bookstores so A Novel Summer by Jamie Brenner was a must read for me.
When Shelby Archer publishes her first novel based on her experiences living in Provincetown on Cape Cod during her college summers, she’s disappointed to find out that some of her friends feel exposed and betrayed by her book. But when one of her friends needs help for the summer running her family’s bookstore back in Provincetown, Shelby returns to assist and try to resolve things. As Shelby reconnects with old friends and old flames, she also works to save her friend’s family independent bookstore from both natural disaster and a bookstore chain that has recently come to town.
This is such a summer beach read and makes me want to travel to all the small towns on the Cape. I love the authors and book references and the talk about writing, editing and the publishing world. While this book does have romantic notes in it, it’s really a book about friendship and coming home. Woven through the story is a commentary on the impacts of climate change, especially on the smaller, coastal communities, through Justin’s career and some of the events that take place.
Also, Shelby and her friend go to “a bar called the Library. It had bookshelf-lined walls and cognac-colored velvet armchairs.” Is this real? Can we go there?
I’ve read a few of Jamie Brenner’s books and I was excited to go back to Provincetown with this one. I’m excited to go back and read more of her backlist.
I'm giving this book 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
July 13, 2024
This was a skimmer for me. Meaning I wasn’t very hooked on what I was getting and I literally jumped ahead and was still
Able to follow what was happening. That to me shows that the story its self was moving super slow and didn’t have much excitement or was very eventful.
I didn’t like any of the characters. I thought they were all pretty selfish and entitled. The girls in this weren’t good friends to each other until the very end. Yet, you had one vying for their attention and approval. Another that held a grudge because she wasn’t moving anywhere in her life. And the other was kind of just there and didn’t offer much.
I thought the romance piece of this was so small that this story shouldn’t be seen as a romance but just a women’s fiction. The romance relationships in this weren’t romantic at all and nor were they really a good piece of the story. It felt very forced. Almost like the author had to put them in so the book could be categorized as a romance to attract more potential readers. These relationships didn’t feel as cared for in the writing unlike the three main friends you read about.
This wasn’t the story for me which is okay but it could be for you so still give it a chance if you like the sound of it. Just know it is not a typical romance and more of a general women’s fiction story.
Able to follow what was happening. That to me shows that the story its self was moving super slow and didn’t have much excitement or was very eventful.
I didn’t like any of the characters. I thought they were all pretty selfish and entitled. The girls in this weren’t good friends to each other until the very end. Yet, you had one vying for their attention and approval. Another that held a grudge because she wasn’t moving anywhere in her life. And the other was kind of just there and didn’t offer much.
I thought the romance piece of this was so small that this story shouldn’t be seen as a romance but just a women’s fiction. The romance relationships in this weren’t romantic at all and nor were they really a good piece of the story. It felt very forced. Almost like the author had to put them in so the book could be categorized as a romance to attract more potential readers. These relationships didn’t feel as cared for in the writing unlike the three main friends you read about.
This wasn’t the story for me which is okay but it could be for you so still give it a chance if you like the sound of it. Just know it is not a typical romance and more of a general women’s fiction story.
April 24, 2024
I recently had the pleasure of diving into "A Novel Summer," and what a delightful read it was! Set in a quaint beach town, the story follows three friends entrenched in the book industry. The vivid descriptions transported me to the idyllic coastal setting, where I could almost feel the sand between my toes. As the characters navigate heartbreak and new beginnings, their growth throughout the novel felt authentic and relatable. With its charming narrative and compelling characters, "A Novel Summer" is the perfect companion for a lazy day at the beach. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this ARC!
August 14, 2024
This took place in Cape Cod (hence my decision to read it on my vacation) but definitely needed more. Happy to support a local author but not my cup of tea ☕️
January 11, 2025
This book could have used more editing. She uses abbreviations for things, like "ARCs" but each time they're used, she spells them out, too. Also, Brenner will mention a green car and the next paragraph will repeat that the car is green. Or a character wore a Burberry trench coat; we get it, they're rich and wearing a nice coat. We don't need to know each and every time you mention that thing or character.
Also, some things felt forced or rushed, including the relationship between Shelby and Justin.
Also, some things felt forced or rushed, including the relationship between Shelby and Justin.
January 15, 2024
I loved this book so much. Each character grows in a significantly different way through the novel. Fast paced, great writing and a perfect summer book ☀️
October 14, 2024
A Novel Summer is a wonderful beach read, about…a beach town! Set in Provincetown, MA, it tells the story of three strong women who have known each other since childhood. Growing up in a small, close nit town, they promised no matter what to return to P-
Town every summer to be together. But, what always seems to happen, life and lives change and sadly friends go their separate ways.
So, when they finally do reunite you would hope the reunion would be special. But unfortunately, that is not the case with these three beloved friends. What does happen is they air their differences which include jealousy, heartbreak and tension. But this is also a very moving book about how friends who have become lost to each other can somehow, not easily, resolve their differences, move past obstacles and come together during crisis and even apologize and admit to past mistakes. And of course, there is romance!
When Shelby's best friend Colleen, whose parents own the only bookstore in town, which she manages, called Land's End implores Shelby to come home to help her, Shelby, an author with her first book out, living in New York City goes to her friend's aid. You see Colleen is pregnant with twins and has been told she must take it easy.
Shelby has not been back to Provincetown for a few years and is hesitantly excited to go back. She realizes she has left some unfinished business behind. But, Colleen is more important. Unfortunately their friend Hunter, who herself is in publishing and is living in town is not very pleased with her return. Hunter is embarrassed as she feels Shelby used her life and secrets in her new book and everyone in town knows it. She wants nothing to do with her.
On top of all this, Shelby has a second book coming due and she has a bit of writer's block. Oh and she now has to face her high school boyfriend, Justin whom she left to go to the Big City to become a writer. She realizes she has a great deal to make up for. but will they all be able to fix what is obviously broken, and also help keep Colleen calm?
But, there seems to be many obstacles at work which will keep them from obtaining their goals. With each, their lives begin to fall apart rather than come together. A Novel Summer is a sweet, second chance story, in so many ways, with romance, deceit, forgiveness and love.
Thank you #NetGalley #ParkRow #ANovelSummer #JamieBrenner for the advanced copy.
Town every summer to be together. But, what always seems to happen, life and lives change and sadly friends go their separate ways.
So, when they finally do reunite you would hope the reunion would be special. But unfortunately, that is not the case with these three beloved friends. What does happen is they air their differences which include jealousy, heartbreak and tension. But this is also a very moving book about how friends who have become lost to each other can somehow, not easily, resolve their differences, move past obstacles and come together during crisis and even apologize and admit to past mistakes. And of course, there is romance!
When Shelby's best friend Colleen, whose parents own the only bookstore in town, which she manages, called Land's End implores Shelby to come home to help her, Shelby, an author with her first book out, living in New York City goes to her friend's aid. You see Colleen is pregnant with twins and has been told she must take it easy.
Shelby has not been back to Provincetown for a few years and is hesitantly excited to go back. She realizes she has left some unfinished business behind. But, Colleen is more important. Unfortunately their friend Hunter, who herself is in publishing and is living in town is not very pleased with her return. Hunter is embarrassed as she feels Shelby used her life and secrets in her new book and everyone in town knows it. She wants nothing to do with her.
On top of all this, Shelby has a second book coming due and she has a bit of writer's block. Oh and she now has to face her high school boyfriend, Justin whom she left to go to the Big City to become a writer. She realizes she has a great deal to make up for. but will they all be able to fix what is obviously broken, and also help keep Colleen calm?
But, there seems to be many obstacles at work which will keep them from obtaining their goals. With each, their lives begin to fall apart rather than come together. A Novel Summer is a sweet, second chance story, in so many ways, with romance, deceit, forgiveness and love.
Thank you #NetGalley #ParkRow #ANovelSummer #JamieBrenner for the advanced copy.
August 22, 2025
Tiesiog visko buvo per daug… 😶🌫️
Siužetas nuspėjamas, veikėjai lėkšti, o merginų draugystė pasirodė labiau priverstinė, nei tikra ir nuoširdi.
Labiausiai klaidinantis ir erzinantis dalykas, jog kiekvienas skyrius yra pasakojamas vis kito veikėjo akimis. Atrodo lyg ir nieko tokio, tačiau ne kartą buvau pasimetusi, nes skyriaus
pradžioje nėra jokio užrašo, kurio veikėjo akimis dabar aprašomas. 👀
Jeigu norisi lengvo, greito, daugiasluoksnio ir neapkraunančio romano, šis, manau, puikiai tiktų. 🌞
Siužetas nuspėjamas, veikėjai lėkšti, o merginų draugystė pasirodė labiau priverstinė, nei tikra ir nuoširdi.
Labiausiai klaidinantis ir erzinantis dalykas, jog kiekvienas skyrius yra pasakojamas vis kito veikėjo akimis. Atrodo lyg ir nieko tokio, tačiau ne kartą buvau pasimetusi, nes skyriaus
pradžioje nėra jokio užrašo, kurio veikėjo akimis dabar aprašomas. 👀
Jeigu norisi lengvo, greito, daugiasluoksnio ir neapkraunančio romano, šis, manau, puikiai tiktų. 🌞
September 25, 2024
I've been a fan of Jamie Brenner's novels for quite some time and I really like her stories that take place in Provincetown. So A Novel Summer appealed to me right away and it did not disappoint!
While reading this novel, I felt like I was on a vacation in some ways. Also, it was centered around books! There was a nice balance of friendship, romance, career, and family throughout and I enjoyed the various perspectives from the main and supporting characters. Even though the town is up north and on an island, it reminded me of Serenity from Sweet Magnolias. I hope to revisit with the characters in future novels, just like she brought in some cameos of characters from her previous novels for this one.
While I loved the story, I wish the intensity had been taken up a few notches. There were some dramatic moments, but I never felt the heft from any of them. However, this novel felt like a nice escape during a busy summer so it's not a huge complaint in the grand scheme of things.
A Novel Summer is perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand, Susan Mallery, and Jenifer Goldin, and also for anyone who loves a good summer story.
Movie casting suggestions:
While reading this novel, I felt like I was on a vacation in some ways. Also, it was centered around books! There was a nice balance of friendship, romance, career, and family throughout and I enjoyed the various perspectives from the main and supporting characters. Even though the town is up north and on an island, it reminded me of Serenity from Sweet Magnolias. I hope to revisit with the characters in future novels, just like she brought in some cameos of characters from her previous novels for this one.
While I loved the story, I wish the intensity had been taken up a few notches. There were some dramatic moments, but I never felt the heft from any of them. However, this novel felt like a nice escape during a busy summer so it's not a huge complaint in the grand scheme of things.
A Novel Summer is perfect for fans of Elin Hilderbrand, Susan Mallery, and Jenifer Goldin, and also for anyone who loves a good summer story.
Movie casting suggestions:
Shelby: Rhiannon Fish
Hunter: Meghann Fahy
Justin: Justin Baldoni
Colleen: Leven Rambin
Anders: Jack Davenport
Kate: Willa Holland
Duke: John Benjamin Hickey
Ezra: Sean Teale
Carmen: Valerie Bertinelli
July 4, 2024
Jamie Brenner's novels, often set in Provincetown Cape Cod, are full of lush beautiful imagery and description of the town; and A NOVEL SUMMER is no exception: it will leave you wanting to book your next vacation ASAP.
Brenner will fill the void for fans looking for that Elin Hilderbrand-esque novel after finishing Swan Song with her Ptown setting. Also, I'm just a plain sucker for a book about a book store and A NOVEL SUMMER centers on Shelby Archer, an author fresh off a New York Times bestselling debut, who returns to her beloved Ptown to help her best friend from college run her local independent bookstore where Shelby used to work when her friend is bedridden with a complicated pregnancy.
Brenner expertly tackles the theme that you can always go home again in the pages of this beautiful book full of wit, humor, second chance romance, and a deep exploration of the bonds of female friendships. A NOVEL SUMMER is light and breezy and perfect for the beach, but secretly packs enough of an emotional punch that you still feel just how great the writing quality is itself. I love the way Jamie Brenner writes her side characters; it's always been a favorite part of her books to me and in this book, she has several that shine so deep; I loved Mia's side storyline so much.
Brenner's novel is a true love letter to bookstores, booksellers, and the art of storytelling; and I know it will be a big hand sell for indies when it's out July 16th! Thank you Park Row and The Hive for an ARC!
Brenner will fill the void for fans looking for that Elin Hilderbrand-esque novel after finishing Swan Song with her Ptown setting. Also, I'm just a plain sucker for a book about a book store and A NOVEL SUMMER centers on Shelby Archer, an author fresh off a New York Times bestselling debut, who returns to her beloved Ptown to help her best friend from college run her local independent bookstore where Shelby used to work when her friend is bedridden with a complicated pregnancy.
Brenner expertly tackles the theme that you can always go home again in the pages of this beautiful book full of wit, humor, second chance romance, and a deep exploration of the bonds of female friendships. A NOVEL SUMMER is light and breezy and perfect for the beach, but secretly packs enough of an emotional punch that you still feel just how great the writing quality is itself. I love the way Jamie Brenner writes her side characters; it's always been a favorite part of her books to me and in this book, she has several that shine so deep; I loved Mia's side storyline so much.
Brenner's novel is a true love letter to bookstores, booksellers, and the art of storytelling; and I know it will be a big hand sell for indies when it's out July 16th! Thank you Park Row and The Hive for an ARC!
August 13, 2024
This is a delightful, sun-soaked beach read about a novelist who returns to the beach town where she spent her college summers helping at the indie bookstore. When she arrives in town, she must confront her old friends’ reactions to the recognizable elements in her novels. The book explores the triggers of nostalgia and introspection about friendships, and then delves into different types of friendships, from college friends to "mom trenches" friends.
While the book centers around her return to this beach town, it delves into college friendships and how the friendships we form during that time are incomparable to the friends we make later in life. Our female friendships in college are like romantic relationships: how they can break your heart, how attached you can feel, and how petty little things can make you feel so betrayed. It also delves into how life tends to pull us away from our college friends and how the pursuit of our careers and dreams that we shared closely with college friends often becomes what separates us in adulthood.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
While the book centers around her return to this beach town, it delves into college friendships and how the friendships we form during that time are incomparable to the friends we make later in life. Our female friendships in college are like romantic relationships: how they can break your heart, how attached you can feel, and how petty little things can make you feel so betrayed. It also delves into how life tends to pull us away from our college friends and how the pursuit of our careers and dreams that we shared closely with college friends often becomes what separates us in adulthood.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbymedia.com/blogs/transcri...
September 1, 2024
Not awful, but not the best read. The characters all acted as if they'd lived a lifetime since the last time they saw each other.... It has only been 3 years. Everyone also acted as if they were in their 40s... But I'm not even sure they're in their 30.
July 2, 2024
A Novel Summer by Jamie Brenner was the quintessential summer read. Shelby always had a dream to write a novel and she was willing to leave behind whatever she needed to reach it. Fast forward a few years later when her debut novel hits all the bestselling lists, Shelby finds herself back on the Cape for a book event at the beloved bookstore that was her home for so many summers. But misunderstandings and misgivings, broken romances and stressed friendships have Shelby wondering what’s next for her and her writing. If you want a fun summer read, this book is for you. If you want a book about books, this is a book for you. If you want a bit of romance, then this is the book for you and if you want all the feels around adult friendship, then this is a book for you too. I adored the town, the people, the plot, all of it.
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