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The Summer That Changed Everything
She returned to prove her father's innocence, but there's no telling what she'll find…
It's been fifteen years since Lucy Sinclair saw her father. Fifteen long years since she sat in a courtroom and watched him sentenced to life in prison. He murdered three victims—all people she knew—which ruined her life at just seventeen. But now she’s back in Virginia to talk to him, wondering if there’s more to the story of what happened that fateful night.
An old flame, Ford Wagner, makes his own return to North Hampton Beach, fleeing a marriage that seems destined for divorce. He’s wary of Lucy and her digging into the past, but the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the more he finds himself reconsidering the truth behind the death of their mutual friend that summer. Problem is, there are plenty of those in this small coastal town who would prefer things stay quiet…
It's been fifteen years since Lucy Sinclair saw her father. Fifteen long years since she sat in a courtroom and watched him sentenced to life in prison. He murdered three victims—all people she knew—which ruined her life at just seventeen. But now she’s back in Virginia to talk to him, wondering if there’s more to the story of what happened that fateful night.
An old flame, Ford Wagner, makes his own return to North Hampton Beach, fleeing a marriage that seems destined for divorce. He’s wary of Lucy and her digging into the past, but the more time they spend together, the closer they get and the more he finds himself reconsidering the truth behind the death of their mutual friend that summer. Problem is, there are plenty of those in this small coastal town who would prefer things stay quiet…
368 pages, Paperback
Published June 3, 2025
1255 people are currently reading
23201 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
233 books6,926 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 704 reviews
May 29, 2025
The Summer That Changed Everything
⭐️ 3 stars for the book
🎧 4 stars for the audio
🩷 Huge thanks to Harlequin Audio for the ALC via NetGalley 💌
Okay, so. This one had me hooked at the concept, but the execution? Meh. I was fully ready for a gritty emotional rollercoaster, small-town secrets, and that gripping thriller-romance combo. What I got instead was… kinda lukewarm. Not cold, just not spicy either.
Lucy goes back home after fifteen years to prove her dad's innocence. Cool, right? Especially when the town’s against her and her ex is back too—there's so much potential there. But the first third? Felt like reading the same two chapters on loop. So much overexplaining, like we get it—she has doubts, the town hates her, she's sad. Move on.
The plot does pick up eventually, and once it does, the mystery starts to actually feel like a mystery. There were a few reveals that I didn't see coming, and I’ll give Novak credit for weaving in some emotional weight near the end. The twists weren’t groundbreaking, but they worked.
Audio saved it. Courtney Patterson nailed the delivery. Her tone, pacing, the way she brought Lucy’s quiet determination was —chef’s kiss. Honestly, if I hadn’t listened to the audiobook, I might’ve zoned out reading it.
As for Ford… eh. He didn’t do it for me. The chemistry wasn’t giving second-chance romance. More like two people thrown back together because the plot needed them to be. Lucy though? She carried the story on her back. Strong, flawed, and stubborn in the best way.
Would I recommend it? Maybe… if you’re in the mood for a slow burn summer read with small-town drama, and you’re okay with some mid-level mystery energy. It’s not bad, it’s just not great. Like a beach day with clouds—you’ll still enjoy it, but it’s not the sunshine you were hoping for.
Was it the summer that changed everything for me?
Nah. But it passed a few hours, and I’m not mad about it.
⭐️ 3 stars for the book
🎧 4 stars for the audio
🩷 Huge thanks to Harlequin Audio for the ALC via NetGalley 💌
Okay, so. This one had me hooked at the concept, but the execution? Meh. I was fully ready for a gritty emotional rollercoaster, small-town secrets, and that gripping thriller-romance combo. What I got instead was… kinda lukewarm. Not cold, just not spicy either.
Lucy goes back home after fifteen years to prove her dad's innocence. Cool, right? Especially when the town’s against her and her ex is back too—there's so much potential there. But the first third? Felt like reading the same two chapters on loop. So much overexplaining, like we get it—she has doubts, the town hates her, she's sad. Move on.
The plot does pick up eventually, and once it does, the mystery starts to actually feel like a mystery. There were a few reveals that I didn't see coming, and I’ll give Novak credit for weaving in some emotional weight near the end. The twists weren’t groundbreaking, but they worked.
Audio saved it. Courtney Patterson nailed the delivery. Her tone, pacing, the way she brought Lucy’s quiet determination was —chef’s kiss. Honestly, if I hadn’t listened to the audiobook, I might’ve zoned out reading it.
As for Ford… eh. He didn’t do it for me. The chemistry wasn’t giving second-chance romance. More like two people thrown back together because the plot needed them to be. Lucy though? She carried the story on her back. Strong, flawed, and stubborn in the best way.
Would I recommend it? Maybe… if you’re in the mood for a slow burn summer read with small-town drama, and you’re okay with some mid-level mystery energy. It’s not bad, it’s just not great. Like a beach day with clouds—you’ll still enjoy it, but it’s not the sunshine you were hoping for.
Was it the summer that changed everything for me?
Nah. But it passed a few hours, and I’m not mad about it.
March 9, 2025
She returns to her hometown to try to prove her father’s innocence and is reunited with her first love along the way.
There were parts of this I enjoyed, but overall this book was very slow to me. Especially the first 1/3 of the book that felt extremely repetitive and could have been condensed to about 2 chapters. The ending was good and had a lot of twists and turns. It was interesting to see who was guilty of what and some of it was surprising, but some of it I guessed based on behavior early on.
If you like slower thrillers that take their time with lots of details, this book is for you. I personally prefer more fast paced for mine. I still think this story overall was a good story of redemption.
Thank you to netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
There were parts of this I enjoyed, but overall this book was very slow to me. Especially the first 1/3 of the book that felt extremely repetitive and could have been condensed to about 2 chapters. The ending was good and had a lot of twists and turns. It was interesting to see who was guilty of what and some of it was surprising, but some of it I guessed based on behavior early on.
If you like slower thrillers that take their time with lots of details, this book is for you. I personally prefer more fast paced for mine. I still think this story overall was a good story of redemption.
Thank you to netgalley for the free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 20, 2025
First off, don’t let the cover fool you! I immediately thought this was a romance novel until I read the synopsis. This is a mystery/ thriller.
Fifteen years ago Lucy Sinclair’s father was sentenced life in prison for the murder of three people. Since that day, she has never seen her father again. Until now.
Lucy returns to North Hampton Beach in hopes to prove her father’s innocence. She teams up with an old flame, Ford (cool name btw) to do some digging. This is when the mystery unfolds. Is her father really guilty?
This story really surprised the heck out of me. If you enjoy slow burn mysteries with intriguing characters, give this one a read. A perfect mystery beach read for the summer!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fifteen years ago Lucy Sinclair’s father was sentenced life in prison for the murder of three people. Since that day, she has never seen her father again. Until now.
Lucy returns to North Hampton Beach in hopes to prove her father’s innocence. She teams up with an old flame, Ford (cool name btw) to do some digging. This is when the mystery unfolds. Is her father really guilty?
This story really surprised the heck out of me. If you enjoy slow burn mysteries with intriguing characters, give this one a read. A perfect mystery beach read for the summer!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
June 22, 2025
Lucy was just seventeen when her father was convicted and sent to prison for murdering three people in their small town. The townspeople turned against Lucy too, and she left and hasn’t returned or talked to her father since. Now, after fifteen years, she feels like she still doesn’t understand what happened, so decides to return for the summer.
The town has always had a population of summer people, mostly owning large homes and returning each year to enjoy the beach. One of those is Ford, who returns to get their family house ready to sell, and contemplate his upcoming divorce. Ford and Lucy had dated for a short time that fateful summer, but they had both fallen hard. However, Ford did not stand by Lucy, but let his family convince him to cut ties. It’s a decision he has always regretted.
With Lucy and Ford back in town, he feels protective towards her, since the people in town have made sure to let her know she’s not welcome. Especially when she starts asking questions about that past summer. What starts as a renewed friendship becomes more as they work together to find the truth.
It’s a second-chance romance, but investigating these crimes together makes for an interesting storyline. Intrigue and romance at the beach makes for a good combination!
The town has always had a population of summer people, mostly owning large homes and returning each year to enjoy the beach. One of those is Ford, who returns to get their family house ready to sell, and contemplate his upcoming divorce. Ford and Lucy had dated for a short time that fateful summer, but they had both fallen hard. However, Ford did not stand by Lucy, but let his family convince him to cut ties. It’s a decision he has always regretted.
With Lucy and Ford back in town, he feels protective towards her, since the people in town have made sure to let her know she’s not welcome. Especially when she starts asking questions about that past summer. What starts as a renewed friendship becomes more as they work together to find the truth.
It’s a second-chance romance, but investigating these crimes together makes for an interesting storyline. Intrigue and romance at the beach makes for a good combination!
July 31, 2025
the setup…
Lucy Sinclair, formerly McBride, left North Hampton Beach fifteen years ago after her father Mick was accused and convicted of the murder of three people. She was only seventeen and suddenly on her own. One of the victims, Aurora Clark, was perceived to be her “rival” for the affections of her then boyfriend Ford Wagner and she became a pariah herself. Now she’s back because Lucy has reason to believe that maybe Mick was not responsible for Aurora’s murder. Coincidentally, Ford is also back in town for the summer, separated from his wife and headed for divorce. He has lots of regrets for how he handled his relationship with Lucy and wants to make amends. Their partnership in seeking the truth is ruffling quite a few feathers in the town.
the heart of the story…
It’s clear from the start that something isn’t right about how those murders were investigated. The town is divided about Lucy and Ford’s meddling but the more they dig, the more their instincts seem to be on target. Lucy and Ford were also given their second chance. Older, wiser and free from family pressures, they resurrected feelings that never died, equally unpopular.
the narration…
Courtney Patterson is a new voice for me and I loved her storytelling skills! She has a great tone and her male voices were excellent.
the bottom line…
This had everything…mystery, suspense, romance, family drama…creating a wonderful brew of a story. I admired Lucy for her perseverance, making something of herself from ashes and having the strength to face a hostile town to find justice for her father. Ford turned out to be honorable and his persistence was just as admirable. It has Novak’s signature style that makes every story riveting. I just wish this was the start of a series as I’d like to see more of these characters.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
Lucy Sinclair, formerly McBride, left North Hampton Beach fifteen years ago after her father Mick was accused and convicted of the murder of three people. She was only seventeen and suddenly on her own. One of the victims, Aurora Clark, was perceived to be her “rival” for the affections of her then boyfriend Ford Wagner and she became a pariah herself. Now she’s back because Lucy has reason to believe that maybe Mick was not responsible for Aurora’s murder. Coincidentally, Ford is also back in town for the summer, separated from his wife and headed for divorce. He has lots of regrets for how he handled his relationship with Lucy and wants to make amends. Their partnership in seeking the truth is ruffling quite a few feathers in the town.
the heart of the story…
It’s clear from the start that something isn’t right about how those murders were investigated. The town is divided about Lucy and Ford’s meddling but the more they dig, the more their instincts seem to be on target. Lucy and Ford were also given their second chance. Older, wiser and free from family pressures, they resurrected feelings that never died, equally unpopular.
the narration…
Courtney Patterson is a new voice for me and I loved her storytelling skills! She has a great tone and her male voices were excellent.
the bottom line…
This had everything…mystery, suspense, romance, family drama…creating a wonderful brew of a story. I admired Lucy for her perseverance, making something of herself from ashes and having the strength to face a hostile town to find justice for her father. Ford turned out to be honorable and his persistence was just as admirable. It has Novak’s signature style that makes every story riveting. I just wish this was the start of a series as I’d like to see more of these characters.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
June 3, 2025
The Summer That Changed Everything by Brenda Novak
Contemporary romance with mystery.
Lucy Sinclair hasn’t seen her father in fifteen years. Since he was sent to prison for the murder of three people. Lucy wants answers and returns to North Hampton Beach to ask questions. The answers she receives are shocking. Her father says he didn’t kill the third victim and Lucy gets a witness statement that supports that. Ford Wagner is also back in the small town and is willing to help Lucy directly and hiring an investigator. Lucy and Ford find answers that contradict the original story. How do they get to the truth without putting anyone in danger?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Courtney Patterson who gives a wonderful performance for all the various characters. The danger is growing with each question asked and the narrator brings that community tenseness to the playback. Everyone is on edge as more evidence is revealed and more answers bring original conclusions an uncertainty.
I listened at my preferred 1.5 to more closely match local conversations and the audiobook was clear and filled with life and action.
Absorbing and truly captivating.
I received the audiobook copy from NetGalley and publisher Harlequin Audio. I’ve also purchased an ebook copy to keep and a paperback copy directly from the author.
Contemporary romance with mystery.
Lucy Sinclair hasn’t seen her father in fifteen years. Since he was sent to prison for the murder of three people. Lucy wants answers and returns to North Hampton Beach to ask questions. The answers she receives are shocking. Her father says he didn’t kill the third victim and Lucy gets a witness statement that supports that. Ford Wagner is also back in the small town and is willing to help Lucy directly and hiring an investigator. Lucy and Ford find answers that contradict the original story. How do they get to the truth without putting anyone in danger?
🎧 I listened to an audiobook narrated by Courtney Patterson who gives a wonderful performance for all the various characters. The danger is growing with each question asked and the narrator brings that community tenseness to the playback. Everyone is on edge as more evidence is revealed and more answers bring original conclusions an uncertainty.
I listened at my preferred 1.5 to more closely match local conversations and the audiobook was clear and filled with life and action.
Absorbing and truly captivating.
I received the audiobook copy from NetGalley and publisher Harlequin Audio. I’ve also purchased an ebook copy to keep and a paperback copy directly from the author.
June 20, 2025
Hoping our book club single handedly brings the average rating down to an acceptable level so people don’t go into thinking it’s a good book. It is not. It is really not.
June 21, 2025
Novak's latest book is a mystery romance about an ephemeral young love shattered by the murder of a young girl. Lucy's father has been imprisoned for fifteen years, but everything that happened in between not only caused her to be separated from him but also from her summer home in North Hampton Beach. It was where her most treasured memories began and ended.
Fifteen years later, Lucy is emboldened to find out the truth about the murder of Aurora Clark—whose death had the entire town blaming her for why her father committed the crime. Try as she might to stay unaffected by the whispers surrounding her return, Lucy didn't expect that she would meet Ford—the boy she once loved—and rekindle the flame they once shared, but at the expense of everything.
Sounds like a clichéd narrative about rekindled love, doesn't it?
But this book featured some of the worst characters ever—the most infuriating and naïve antagonists and supporting characters, who irritated me more times than I could count. Ford, a man going through a divorce, hates his wife's gaslighting, yet is credulous enough to want to save the marriage, if only for his unborn child. Meanwhile, Lucy—designed to be tenacious in proving her father's innocence—is written as unrealistically forgiving. I didn't care about any of the characters, to be honest, though I have to admit, my resolve to see it through to the end was solid.
There were a few cliffhangers that held my rapt attention. The romance was cheesy at best and nothing original that hadn't been written before. Despite its predictability, The Summer That Changed Everything was an entertaining audiobook with a fantastic narrator whose voice-shifting was performed seamlessly.
Fifteen years later, Lucy is emboldened to find out the truth about the murder of Aurora Clark—whose death had the entire town blaming her for why her father committed the crime. Try as she might to stay unaffected by the whispers surrounding her return, Lucy didn't expect that she would meet Ford—the boy she once loved—and rekindle the flame they once shared, but at the expense of everything.
Sounds like a clichéd narrative about rekindled love, doesn't it?
But this book featured some of the worst characters ever—the most infuriating and naïve antagonists and supporting characters, who irritated me more times than I could count. Ford, a man going through a divorce, hates his wife's gaslighting, yet is credulous enough to want to save the marriage, if only for his unborn child. Meanwhile, Lucy—designed to be tenacious in proving her father's innocence—is written as unrealistically forgiving. I didn't care about any of the characters, to be honest, though I have to admit, my resolve to see it through to the end was solid.
There were a few cliffhangers that held my rapt attention. The romance was cheesy at best and nothing original that hadn't been written before. Despite its predictability, The Summer That Changed Everything was an entertaining audiobook with a fantastic narrator whose voice-shifting was performed seamlessly.
June 1, 2025
We’re all driven by something.
For Lucy McBride, it’s getting at the truth, righting a wrong.
With her father, Mick McBride, in prison for the last 15 years, she’s had plenty of time to think and concludes that something just isn’t right about her father’s conviction in Lucy’s friend’s death. She returns to the small town where she was raised and begins campaigning and investigating on Mick’s behalf.
I enjoyed the look at small town life; the allegiances and the willingness to paint everyone with the same brush. I applauded and cheered on Lucy as she faces everyone in finding answers. The chemistry and connection with Ford Wagner added to the story.
This was a great balance of love, suspense and family dynamics.
I was gifted this story by Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
For Lucy McBride, it’s getting at the truth, righting a wrong.
With her father, Mick McBride, in prison for the last 15 years, she’s had plenty of time to think and concludes that something just isn’t right about her father’s conviction in Lucy’s friend’s death. She returns to the small town where she was raised and begins campaigning and investigating on Mick’s behalf.
I enjoyed the look at small town life; the allegiances and the willingness to paint everyone with the same brush. I applauded and cheered on Lucy as she faces everyone in finding answers. The chemistry and connection with Ford Wagner added to the story.
This was a great balance of love, suspense and family dynamics.
I was gifted this story by Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
October 3, 2025
2.5 stars. TLDR: Neither a compelling mystery or a decent romance. Skip.
15 years ago, Lucy Sinclair’s life imploded when her Dad was convicted of multiple murders. But lately something has been nagging at her. What if her Dad was actually innocent of one of the murders?
Determined that the real murderer sees justice, Lucy must return to the town she ran from and the community that pushed her out.
Also back to town is Golden Boy, hearthrob Ford, her first love to whom no man has ever measured up. He is richer than ever and in the middle of his own messy divorce. Motivated by the guilt of turning his back on Lucy 15 years earlier, he puts his money and time towards helping her. For Ford, Lucy is even more beautiful than he remembered and a stark contrast from his manipulative wife. Both Ford and Lucy know renewing their romance comes with an expiration date, but as they draw closer to discovering the real murderer, they can’t help but fall back into their passion for each other.
As both a romance and a mystery this was subpar. Romantic lead, Ford, was just not it. From the beginning the way Ford remembers their romance and the way Lucy remembers it are vastly different. 5 beautiful summer weeks shaped Lucy’s every romantic interaction afterwards. But the readers first introduction to Fords is his reminiscience of Lucy and his guilt which he assuages by telling himself that its not like they had been “dating for months or years.” Except later on we learn Ford turned his back on her only days after taking her virginity which kind of negates the casualness he tries to remember the relationship as. This isn’t a deep enough character study for us to assume this detachment is actually a coping mechanism. And then, for a big part of the book Ford plans on leaving Lucy and patching things up with a woman he does not love because she is having his baby. Which, even if this woman is vindictive, wouldn’t his child grow up better off without parents who hate each other but stick together for their sake? It gives me the ick. Lucy knows Ford will break her heart but she basically has no family and has lived such a tough life, having clawed her way out of homelessness and addiction, that she will grab whatever bit of happiness is offered. Their romance is hard to root for. And then spoiler alert, he does end up leaving her earlier than planned because he is too dumb to google preemclampsia. Finally he rolls back up the beach super casually months later and she has no hesitancy in taking him back because she sees him leaving her as being a good man.
As for the mystery component, the main murder —which Lucy goes back to solve—is revealed to the reader very early on through the POV of the murderer, a final boss “good guy.” Revealing the killer so early on needs to be paired with some jaw dropping twist but that never appears. In the end Dad is innocent and the guys who act like bad guys are bad guys. Super deep.
15 years ago, Lucy Sinclair’s life imploded when her Dad was convicted of multiple murders. But lately something has been nagging at her. What if her Dad was actually innocent of one of the murders?
Determined that the real murderer sees justice, Lucy must return to the town she ran from and the community that pushed her out.
Also back to town is Golden Boy, hearthrob Ford, her first love to whom no man has ever measured up. He is richer than ever and in the middle of his own messy divorce. Motivated by the guilt of turning his back on Lucy 15 years earlier, he puts his money and time towards helping her. For Ford, Lucy is even more beautiful than he remembered and a stark contrast from his manipulative wife. Both Ford and Lucy know renewing their romance comes with an expiration date, but as they draw closer to discovering the real murderer, they can’t help but fall back into their passion for each other.
As both a romance and a mystery this was subpar. Romantic lead, Ford, was just not it. From the beginning the way Ford remembers their romance and the way Lucy remembers it are vastly different. 5 beautiful summer weeks shaped Lucy’s every romantic interaction afterwards. But the readers first introduction to Fords is his reminiscience of Lucy and his guilt which he assuages by telling himself that its not like they had been “dating for months or years.” Except later on we learn Ford turned his back on her only days after taking her virginity which kind of negates the casualness he tries to remember the relationship as. This isn’t a deep enough character study for us to assume this detachment is actually a coping mechanism. And then, for a big part of the book Ford plans on leaving Lucy and patching things up with a woman he does not love because she is having his baby. Which, even if this woman is vindictive, wouldn’t his child grow up better off without parents who hate each other but stick together for their sake? It gives me the ick. Lucy knows Ford will break her heart but she basically has no family and has lived such a tough life, having clawed her way out of homelessness and addiction, that she will grab whatever bit of happiness is offered. Their romance is hard to root for. And then spoiler alert, he does end up leaving her earlier than planned because he is too dumb to google preemclampsia. Finally he rolls back up the beach super casually months later and she has no hesitancy in taking him back because she sees him leaving her as being a good man.
As for the mystery component, the main murder —which Lucy goes back to solve—is revealed to the reader very early on through the POV of the murderer, a final boss “good guy.” Revealing the killer so early on needs to be paired with some jaw dropping twist but that never appears. In the end Dad is innocent and the guys who act like bad guys are bad guys. Super deep.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2025
What in tarnation this book was sent to earth to torture me
June 7, 2025
Another excellent read from Author Brenda Novak! Fully entertaining and suspenseful! She had me hooked until the very last pages of the novel. A page turner! Engaging! A 5 Star read for me! Found myself in the comfort of another Brenda Novak novel, love her style!
It might be hard to prove innocence after 15 years in prison, but Lucy Sinclair was determined to prove her father’s innocence. At seventeen Lucy survived watching her father being sentenced to life in prison for murdering not one, not two but three people Lucy knew, two of which she loved like grandparents. She came back to the small town in Virginia where she grew up not knowing her boyfriend, Ford Wagner, from long ago would also happen to show up at North Hampton Beach.
Lucy had the odds against her in a small town where no one wanted to “stir things up “. Ford’s interest in Lucy even all these years later was piqued yet uncertain how he felt about digging up the past.
This romantic suspense novel is a thrilling summer read that has you hoping against all odds. The murder mystery will keep you curious enough as secrets are disclosed to question whether Lucy’s efforts are worthy or strictly useless.
Loved and highly recommend this novel from one of my favorite authors !
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing / Mira for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
It might be hard to prove innocence after 15 years in prison, but Lucy Sinclair was determined to prove her father’s innocence. At seventeen Lucy survived watching her father being sentenced to life in prison for murdering not one, not two but three people Lucy knew, two of which she loved like grandparents. She came back to the small town in Virginia where she grew up not knowing her boyfriend, Ford Wagner, from long ago would also happen to show up at North Hampton Beach.
Lucy had the odds against her in a small town where no one wanted to “stir things up “. Ford’s interest in Lucy even all these years later was piqued yet uncertain how he felt about digging up the past.
This romantic suspense novel is a thrilling summer read that has you hoping against all odds. The murder mystery will keep you curious enough as secrets are disclosed to question whether Lucy’s efforts are worthy or strictly useless.
Loved and highly recommend this novel from one of my favorite authors !
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing / Mira for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 16, 2025
Lucy Sinclair's return to North Hampton Beach, Virginia after fifteen years carries the weight of unfinished business. The daughter of convicted murderer Mick McBride, Lucy has lived with the shame and isolation that comes from being related to someone the entire community believes is a killer. Novak's decision to open the novel at Red Onion State Prison, where Lucy visits her estranged father, immediately establishes the emotional stakes and the profound cost of their separation.
The author's portrayal of Lucy's internal struggle—loving a father she believed was guilty while bearing the burden of his crimes—feels authentic and heartbreaking. Lucy's transformation from a broken seventeen-year-old into a determined woman seeking truth showcases Novak's ability to craft character growth that feels both realistic and inspiring. Her decision to change her surname from McBride to Sinclair represents more than just practical necessity; it symbolizes her attempt to reclaim her identity from the shadow of her father's alleged crimes.
Romance Rekindled Against All Odds
The reunion between Lucy and Ford Wagner provides the novel's romantic core, but Novak wisely avoids the trap of making their rekindled relationship feel easy or inevitable. Ford's initial guilt over how he abandoned Lucy during her darkest hour adds layers of complexity to their interactions. His internal conflict between his privileged background and his genuine feelings for Lucy creates authentic tension that drives much of the emotional narrative.
Novak excels at capturing the tentative nature of their reconnection. Ford's gesture of secretly maintaining the cottage's yard before Lucy's arrival demonstrates his lingering feelings while highlighting his inability to directly confront their past. The slow burn of their relationship rebuilding—from wariness to friendship to passionate love—feels organic rather than forced. Their intimate scenes are tastefully handled, focusing on emotional connection rather than mere physical attraction.
The complication of Ford's pregnant wife Christina adds moral complexity that elevates the romance beyond simple wish fulfillment. When the pregnancy is revealed as fabricated, some readers might find this development convenient, but Novak has planted enough seeds about Christina's manipulative nature to make the revelation believable if dramatic.
A Mystery That Examines Systemic Injustice
The mystery elements of The Summer That Changed Everything transcend typical whodunit conventions to explore deeper themes about class, prejudice, and the flawed nature of the justice system. Mick McBride's conviction appears ironclad—DNA evidence ties him to the Matteo murders, and circumstantial evidence links him to Aurora Clark's death. However, Novak carefully constructs a case study in how bias and rush to judgment can lead to wrongful conviction.
The revelation that transfer DNA could explain Mick's genetic material under Tony Matteo's fingernails represents one of the novel's strongest moments. Novak demonstrates solid research into forensic science while illustrating how evolving understanding of evidence can expose past mistakes. The discovery that Houston Wagner's DNA was found at the Matteo crime scene—indicating his presence but not necessarily his guilt—adds layers of complexity that keep readers guessing.
Private investigator Lester Friedman serves as an effective plot device, but his character feels somewhat underdeveloped compared to the main cast. His methodical approach to reinvestigating the case provides necessary exposition while maintaining narrative momentum.
Character Development and Community Dynamics
Novak's portrayal of North Hampton Beach as a small coastal community still grappling with the murders fifteen years later feels authentic. The various residents' reactions to Lucy's return—from Dahlia's eventual kindness to Chief Claxton's initial hostility—create a realistic backdrop of lingering trauma and community prejudice.
The supporting characters serve distinct purposes in advancing both plot and themes:
Anna Stover represents the cost of keeping family secrets, her eventual decision to reveal her brother Reggie's lies demonstrates moral courage
Chet Anthony emerges as Aurora's true killer, his ordinary facade hiding a murderous obsession that went undetected for fifteen years
Kira Anthony faces the impossible choice between protecting her family and seeking justice
Reggie Burton embodies the real criminal who escaped consequences while an innocent man suffered
The revelation that Chet Anthony murdered Aurora Clark feels earned rather than contrived. Novak plants subtle hints about his obsession with Aurora and his suspicious behavior throughout the narrative. His wife Kira's discovery of buried evidence and her agonizing decision to come forward provides a powerful subplot about moral courage and the cost of doing what's right.
Strengths and Emotional Resonance
Novak's greatest strength lies in her ability to balance multiple genre elements without sacrificing emotional authenticity. The romance between Lucy and Ford feels genuine because it's built on shared history, mutual respect, and hard-won understanding rather than mere attraction. Their love story gains power from the obstacles they overcome together.
The author's handling of family dynamics—particularly the complex relationship between Lucy and her father—adds depth to the narrative. Mick's selfless decision to push Lucy away to protect her future demonstrates love in its most sacrificial form. Their eventual reunion and his exoneration provide satisfying emotional payoff.
The novel's pacing expertly builds tension through alternating revelations and setbacks. Each discovery leads to new questions, maintaining reader engagement while avoiding the trap of making solutions feel too easy.
Areas for Critical Consideration
While The Summer That Changed Everything succeeds on multiple levels, some elements feel less fully realized. The resolution of Ford's marriage troubles through Christina's fabricated pregnancy, while not entirely implausible, does provide a rather neat solution to what had been positioned as an insurmountable obstacle.
Chief Claxton's eventual about-face from hostile obstruction to helpful cooperation happens somewhat abruptly, though his desire to protect his corrupt son provides adequate motivation. The police department's willingness to reopen old cases and admit mistakes might strike some readers as overly optimistic given real-world resistance to acknowledging wrongful convictions.
Some secondary plot threads, particularly involving Houston Wagner's legal troubles and the broader implications of police corruption, feel underdeveloped. While these elements serve the main narrative, they could have been explored more thoroughly to add additional depth.
Thematic Depth and Social Commentary
Beyond its entertainment value, the novel offers thoughtful commentary on several social issues. The impact of wrongful conviction extends far beyond the incarcerated individual to devastate families and communities. Lucy's fifteen years of exile and struggle illustrate how injustice creates ripple effects that touch innocent lives.
The book also examines how class differences affect justice. Mick McBride, as a working-class alcoholic with no social standing, made an easy target for law enforcement seeking quick resolution. In contrast, the wealthy Wagner family's influence provides protection and resources unavailable to those without means.
Novak's portrayal of small-town dynamics reveals both the comfort of community and its potential for cruelty. The same intimate connections that provide support can also enable gossip, prejudice, and mob mentality.
Writing Style and Technical Merit
Novak's prose flows smoothly without calling attention to itself, allowing readers to focus on character and plot development. Her dialogue feels natural and reveals character effectively. Descriptions of the Virginia coastal setting create atmosphere without becoming overly descriptive.
The author demonstrates solid understanding of legal and forensic procedures while avoiding excessive technical detail that might bog down the narrative. Her research into wrongful conviction cases and DNA evidence appears thorough and accurate.
Final Assessment
The Summer That Changed Everything succeeds as both romance and mystery while offering meaningful commentary on justice, forgiveness, and the power of truth. Novak creates characters readers care about facing real consequences for their choices. The novel's resolution feels earned rather than convenient, providing emotional satisfaction without tying up every loose end too neatly.
While some plot developments stretch credibility and certain secondary characters could use more development, these are minor flaws in an otherwise engaging and well-crafted novel. The book's greatest achievement lies in its demonstration that genre fiction can tackle serious themes without sacrificing entertainment value.
This novel will appeal to readers seeking romance with substance, mystery lovers interested in wrongful conviction cases, and anyone who appreciates stories about redemption and second chances. Novak has created a work that entertains while encouraging reflection on justice, prejudice, and the courage required to seek truth even when it comes at great personal cost.
The author's portrayal of Lucy's internal struggle—loving a father she believed was guilty while bearing the burden of his crimes—feels authentic and heartbreaking. Lucy's transformation from a broken seventeen-year-old into a determined woman seeking truth showcases Novak's ability to craft character growth that feels both realistic and inspiring. Her decision to change her surname from McBride to Sinclair represents more than just practical necessity; it symbolizes her attempt to reclaim her identity from the shadow of her father's alleged crimes.
Romance Rekindled Against All Odds
The reunion between Lucy and Ford Wagner provides the novel's romantic core, but Novak wisely avoids the trap of making their rekindled relationship feel easy or inevitable. Ford's initial guilt over how he abandoned Lucy during her darkest hour adds layers of complexity to their interactions. His internal conflict between his privileged background and his genuine feelings for Lucy creates authentic tension that drives much of the emotional narrative.
Novak excels at capturing the tentative nature of their reconnection. Ford's gesture of secretly maintaining the cottage's yard before Lucy's arrival demonstrates his lingering feelings while highlighting his inability to directly confront their past. The slow burn of their relationship rebuilding—from wariness to friendship to passionate love—feels organic rather than forced. Their intimate scenes are tastefully handled, focusing on emotional connection rather than mere physical attraction.
The complication of Ford's pregnant wife Christina adds moral complexity that elevates the romance beyond simple wish fulfillment. When the pregnancy is revealed as fabricated, some readers might find this development convenient, but Novak has planted enough seeds about Christina's manipulative nature to make the revelation believable if dramatic.
A Mystery That Examines Systemic Injustice
The mystery elements of The Summer That Changed Everything transcend typical whodunit conventions to explore deeper themes about class, prejudice, and the flawed nature of the justice system. Mick McBride's conviction appears ironclad—DNA evidence ties him to the Matteo murders, and circumstantial evidence links him to Aurora Clark's death. However, Novak carefully constructs a case study in how bias and rush to judgment can lead to wrongful conviction.
The revelation that transfer DNA could explain Mick's genetic material under Tony Matteo's fingernails represents one of the novel's strongest moments. Novak demonstrates solid research into forensic science while illustrating how evolving understanding of evidence can expose past mistakes. The discovery that Houston Wagner's DNA was found at the Matteo crime scene—indicating his presence but not necessarily his guilt—adds layers of complexity that keep readers guessing.
Private investigator Lester Friedman serves as an effective plot device, but his character feels somewhat underdeveloped compared to the main cast. His methodical approach to reinvestigating the case provides necessary exposition while maintaining narrative momentum.
Character Development and Community Dynamics
Novak's portrayal of North Hampton Beach as a small coastal community still grappling with the murders fifteen years later feels authentic. The various residents' reactions to Lucy's return—from Dahlia's eventual kindness to Chief Claxton's initial hostility—create a realistic backdrop of lingering trauma and community prejudice.
The supporting characters serve distinct purposes in advancing both plot and themes:
Anna Stover represents the cost of keeping family secrets, her eventual decision to reveal her brother Reggie's lies demonstrates moral courage
Chet Anthony emerges as Aurora's true killer, his ordinary facade hiding a murderous obsession that went undetected for fifteen years
Kira Anthony faces the impossible choice between protecting her family and seeking justice
Reggie Burton embodies the real criminal who escaped consequences while an innocent man suffered
The revelation that Chet Anthony murdered Aurora Clark feels earned rather than contrived. Novak plants subtle hints about his obsession with Aurora and his suspicious behavior throughout the narrative. His wife Kira's discovery of buried evidence and her agonizing decision to come forward provides a powerful subplot about moral courage and the cost of doing what's right.
Strengths and Emotional Resonance
Novak's greatest strength lies in her ability to balance multiple genre elements without sacrificing emotional authenticity. The romance between Lucy and Ford feels genuine because it's built on shared history, mutual respect, and hard-won understanding rather than mere attraction. Their love story gains power from the obstacles they overcome together.
The author's handling of family dynamics—particularly the complex relationship between Lucy and her father—adds depth to the narrative. Mick's selfless decision to push Lucy away to protect her future demonstrates love in its most sacrificial form. Their eventual reunion and his exoneration provide satisfying emotional payoff.
The novel's pacing expertly builds tension through alternating revelations and setbacks. Each discovery leads to new questions, maintaining reader engagement while avoiding the trap of making solutions feel too easy.
Areas for Critical Consideration
While The Summer That Changed Everything succeeds on multiple levels, some elements feel less fully realized. The resolution of Ford's marriage troubles through Christina's fabricated pregnancy, while not entirely implausible, does provide a rather neat solution to what had been positioned as an insurmountable obstacle.
Chief Claxton's eventual about-face from hostile obstruction to helpful cooperation happens somewhat abruptly, though his desire to protect his corrupt son provides adequate motivation. The police department's willingness to reopen old cases and admit mistakes might strike some readers as overly optimistic given real-world resistance to acknowledging wrongful convictions.
Some secondary plot threads, particularly involving Houston Wagner's legal troubles and the broader implications of police corruption, feel underdeveloped. While these elements serve the main narrative, they could have been explored more thoroughly to add additional depth.
Thematic Depth and Social Commentary
Beyond its entertainment value, the novel offers thoughtful commentary on several social issues. The impact of wrongful conviction extends far beyond the incarcerated individual to devastate families and communities. Lucy's fifteen years of exile and struggle illustrate how injustice creates ripple effects that touch innocent lives.
The book also examines how class differences affect justice. Mick McBride, as a working-class alcoholic with no social standing, made an easy target for law enforcement seeking quick resolution. In contrast, the wealthy Wagner family's influence provides protection and resources unavailable to those without means.
Novak's portrayal of small-town dynamics reveals both the comfort of community and its potential for cruelty. The same intimate connections that provide support can also enable gossip, prejudice, and mob mentality.
Writing Style and Technical Merit
Novak's prose flows smoothly without calling attention to itself, allowing readers to focus on character and plot development. Her dialogue feels natural and reveals character effectively. Descriptions of the Virginia coastal setting create atmosphere without becoming overly descriptive.
The author demonstrates solid understanding of legal and forensic procedures while avoiding excessive technical detail that might bog down the narrative. Her research into wrongful conviction cases and DNA evidence appears thorough and accurate.
Final Assessment
The Summer That Changed Everything succeeds as both romance and mystery while offering meaningful commentary on justice, forgiveness, and the power of truth. Novak creates characters readers care about facing real consequences for their choices. The novel's resolution feels earned rather than convenient, providing emotional satisfaction without tying up every loose end too neatly.
While some plot developments stretch credibility and certain secondary characters could use more development, these are minor flaws in an otherwise engaging and well-crafted novel. The book's greatest achievement lies in its demonstration that genre fiction can tackle serious themes without sacrificing entertainment value.
This novel will appeal to readers seeking romance with substance, mystery lovers interested in wrongful conviction cases, and anyone who appreciates stories about redemption and second chances. Novak has created a work that entertains while encouraging reflection on justice, prejudice, and the courage required to seek truth even when it comes at great personal cost.
June 23, 2025
The Summer That Changed Everything
5✨
Compelled from the very first page. Completed in only two days. loved it!
5✨
Compelled from the very first page. Completed in only two days. loved it!
June 3, 2025
when lucy heads back to her hometown to figure out what happened with a neighborhood girl who was supposedly killed by her father, she didn’t expect ford, her first summer love, to be there. as he helps to unravel the secrets buried in this town about the murders, the two of them slowly find their way back to each other.
I did enjoy pieces of this. I liked the mystery aspects and how hard Lucy was fighting for her father. I just wish ford wasn’t still married with a baby on the way even though there were divorce papers waiting to be signed. The romance felt a little icky to me but if he wasn’t married with a kid on the way I would’ve liked this more.
🎧 the audiobook was pretty well done. Courtney Patterson read for all perspectives (as this is in multiple pov) and I do wish there was one male narrator because I would get a little lost at points with the perspective changes.
Thank you harlequin for a finished copy!
I did enjoy pieces of this. I liked the mystery aspects and how hard Lucy was fighting for her father. I just wish ford wasn’t still married with a baby on the way even though there were divorce papers waiting to be signed. The romance felt a little icky to me but if he wasn’t married with a kid on the way I would’ve liked this more.
🎧 the audiobook was pretty well done. Courtney Patterson read for all perspectives (as this is in multiple pov) and I do wish there was one male narrator because I would get a little lost at points with the perspective changes.
Thank you harlequin for a finished copy!
July 18, 2025
I liked the story, but this was not well-written, and it took way too long to get to the point.
July 18, 2025
This kept my interest enough to finish it but it was so poorly executed and predictable. So many eye rolls while reading this one 🙄🙄
August 6, 2025
The writing was just not good … every chapter felt like it was repeating how Lucy and Ford were so in love 15 years and the same story about the two murders in town. Spoiling that Chet was one of the murderers early on in the book made it feel like there was nothing else to really expand on. The points of view were confusing changing from Lucy to Ford to Chet.
June 9, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! The Summer That Changed Everything was everything I hoped it would be and more. The storyline pulled me in right from the start, and I completely fell in love with the characters—they felt so real and relatable. Brenda Novak has a way of creating emotional depth without ever feeling heavy, and this book is a perfect example of that.
The setting was beautiful and made the whole story feel like a true escape. I could picture every scene like I was right there. I’ve really enjoyed her last few books, and this one might be my favorite yet. Highly recommend to anyone who loves heartfelt stories with strong friendships, second chances, and a touch of summer magic.
The setting was beautiful and made the whole story feel like a true escape. I could picture every scene like I was right there. I’ve really enjoyed her last few books, and this one might be my favorite yet. Highly recommend to anyone who loves heartfelt stories with strong friendships, second chances, and a touch of summer magic.
June 12, 2025
Fifteen years ago, Lucy Sinclair’s father was convicted of murdering three people in the small town of North Hampton Beach, Virginia. At just seventeen, with no other family, she was left to fend for herself. Lucy weathered some tough times but got through it and made something of herself. Now all these years later Lucy’s ready to go back to answer some nagging doubts she had about one of the murders. She doesn’t count on running into Ford, the man who abandoned her and broke her heart, but he’s also back in town taking a summer break from his own problems.
Lucy gets flak from the townsfolk right away when they find out why she’s there, but there are also ones who’ve questioned the past, as well. While we find out what’s behind one of the mysteries pretty early on, some of it doesn’t come all the way out until the end. I had my suspicions.
The Summer That Changed Everything was part romance, part mystery and a messy situation on several levels. Messy is usually something I avoid because I’m not a big fan of angst, but somehow Ms. Novak writes it in such a way that it doesn't come off as angsty. Once I started, I knew I’d have to read/listen to it all the way through! It wasn’t a story I’d have an easy time setting aside to continue later. I was riveted and had to know how it’d all turn out! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m still thinking about it!
I alternately read and listened to The Summer That Changed Everything. I thought Courtney Patterson performed all voices, males and female wonderfully with appropriate emotion, bringing the characters and story to life.
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Lucy gets flak from the townsfolk right away when they find out why she’s there, but there are also ones who’ve questioned the past, as well. While we find out what’s behind one of the mysteries pretty early on, some of it doesn’t come all the way out until the end. I had my suspicions.
The Summer That Changed Everything was part romance, part mystery and a messy situation on several levels. Messy is usually something I avoid because I’m not a big fan of angst, but somehow Ms. Novak writes it in such a way that it doesn't come off as angsty. Once I started, I knew I’d have to read/listen to it all the way through! It wasn’t a story I’d have an easy time setting aside to continue later. I was riveted and had to know how it’d all turn out! I thoroughly enjoyed it and I’m still thinking about it!
I alternately read and listened to The Summer That Changed Everything. I thought Courtney Patterson performed all voices, males and female wonderfully with appropriate emotion, bringing the characters and story to life.
I voluntarily read/listened to an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
May 31, 2025
Review coming soon.
June 14, 2025
The Summer That Changed Everything has layers of story with mystery and romance. I loved the mystery, twists, turns, & love story! I just adore this new book & can’t recommend it enough!
June 3, 2025
The newest book by Brenda Novak combines the fun of a getaway to the beach with a murder mystery that is riveting and suspenseful. Lucy returns to North Hampton Beach to prove that her father, a man convicted of three murders, did not actually kill a young teen named Aurora. Once at the place she had previously called home, Lucy is assailed with memories and also faces a great deal of opposition from the local residents. They don’t accept her theory that her father is innocent of Aurora’s murder and seem to resent that she is trying to prove it. Lucy appears to be alone in her battle until her former high school boyfriend Ford shows up to support her, both mentally and physically. Together, the two of them make a good investigative team, especially when Ford hires a private investigator to unravel some on the mysteries involved in Aurora’s death. There are some twists and surprises along the way, although the killer’s identity is actually revealed early in the story. It was interesting to read how Lucy and Ford were able to follow clues to reveal the killer to the town as well as pursue a secondary mystery. There are also some steamy scenes as Lucy and Ford reignite their former attraction. Family drama is a central part of the plot, too, since Ford’s family does not approve of his choices and Ford’s estranged wife wants to hold on to him and holds what seems to be a winning hand. This is a fast-paced and engaging read with the signature style and brilliantly woven complex plot by a master author.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
February 9, 2025
When I see a book by this author, I do not even read the synopsis I dive in headfirst.
Lucy returns to North Hampton Beach after leaving 15 years ago.
Her father is in prison for a triple murder, and the entire town turned their back on her when she was 17,
In spite of it she has made her way and is back because all the pieces of the puzzle don’t fit.
She’s not the only one who’s back her ex-boyfriend from that time Ford is back also, and soon they begin working together to clear her father’s name.
I loved every page, I got so invested in this story and in Lucy and Ford! This is one you will not want to miss
Lucy returns to North Hampton Beach after leaving 15 years ago.
Her father is in prison for a triple murder, and the entire town turned their back on her when she was 17,
In spite of it she has made her way and is back because all the pieces of the puzzle don’t fit.
She’s not the only one who’s back her ex-boyfriend from that time Ford is back also, and soon they begin working together to clear her father’s name.
I loved every page, I got so invested in this story and in Lucy and Ford! This is one you will not want to miss
June 17, 2025
Even though Brenda Novak has written many books, this is my first of hers but I'll definitely be watching for what she writes next. This is largely a book about Lucy--a resilient, strong, wise and very understanding young woman who has been estranged from her father for 15 years. Her father, who raised her on his own, was sentenced to life in prison for murdering 3 people in 2 separate instances when Lucy was only 17 years old. Not only did Lucy decide to leave her father behind but she left her high school sweetheart behind as well, or I should say he and his well-to-do family left her and her alcoholic father behind. Lucy decides to go back to her hometown and face her father and when she does, bit by bit what everyone in her small town had accepted regarding the murders starts to unravel as Lucy digs into the past. It's a great mystery but there's a very sweet romance as well.
June 18, 2025
This is the perfect summer mystery!
July 5, 2025
Great book!
June 4, 2025
This was my favorite of Brenda's books so far.
I wasn't sure what to expect with the premise but it was fascinating and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. Lucy was so brave to return to the small town that held so many memories and people that will most likely not treat her well.
I wasn't sure what to expect with the premise but it was fascinating and I enjoyed how the story unfolded. Lucy was so brave to return to the small town that held so many memories and people that will most likely not treat her well.
April 27, 2025
This should definitely be on your summer reads list. It’s got everything you need for a great summer read. 15 years has gone by since Lucy’s father has been convicted of 3 murders in one summer. Something has never sat right to Lucy the past 15 years. Yes the dna was a match to convict him of the 2 murders since one of the victims had his DNA under his nails. But the murder of a girl her age was more circumstantial. The whole town was convinced they got the right person. But Lucy wants to go back to her hometown and dig up the truth. She ends up finding way more than she ever thought. A bit of a spicy romantic mystery story that will keep your head on a swivel.
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