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A Secret Escape
☀️Escape for summer with this uplifting and gorgeous feel-good novel full of friendship, forgiveness and love, from the Number One Sunday Times bestselling author!☀️* * * *
A lifelong friendship
Childhood friends Milly and Nicole had always been more like sisters so Milly never understood why, two years ago, Nicole dropped out of contact completely. Milly buried that hurt and moved on with her life.
A call for help
Now, suddenly, Nicole is begging for Milly’s help. She needs somewhere private to hide, and the only safe place she can think of is Milly's holiday home business in the Lake District. Milly knows she should tell Nicole no, but she can’t ignore the desperation in her old friend’s voice so, despite her misgivings, she agrees to let Nicole stay.
A summer to reconnect
The two women begin to reconnect over the summer, and there’s a potential new romance for Milly too. But then the biggest bombshell of all lands and their delicate friendship is put to the ultimate test …
Can the friends come together in this time of need, or will this summer break their bond forever?
A lifelong friendship
Childhood friends Milly and Nicole had always been more like sisters so Milly never understood why, two years ago, Nicole dropped out of contact completely. Milly buried that hurt and moved on with her life.
A call for help
Now, suddenly, Nicole is begging for Milly’s help. She needs somewhere private to hide, and the only safe place she can think of is Milly's holiday home business in the Lake District. Milly knows she should tell Nicole no, but she can’t ignore the desperation in her old friend’s voice so, despite her misgivings, she agrees to let Nicole stay.
A summer to reconnect
The two women begin to reconnect over the summer, and there’s a potential new romance for Milly too. But then the biggest bombshell of all lands and their delicate friendship is put to the ultimate test …
Can the friends come together in this time of need, or will this summer break their bond forever?
352 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 6, 2025
706 people are currently reading
17399 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Morgan
692 books7,375 followersAbout Sarah
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Look out for Sarah's next novel coming in May - Brave New Summer (UK title)/ Five Star Summer (US/Canadian title)
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
USA Today and #1 Sunday Times bestselling author Sarah Morgan writes romance and contemporary women's fiction and her trademark humour and warmth have gained her fans across the globe. Sarah lives near London, England, and when she isn't reading or writing she loves being outdoors.
Look out for Sarah's next novel coming in May - Brave New Summer (UK title)/ Five Star Summer (US/Canadian title)
Join Sarah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorSarahM...
Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SarahMorgan_
Follow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahmorgan...
Website: www.sarahmorgan.com
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 517 reviews
September 4, 2025
the setup…
Milly Beckett thought she had it all. She was happily married and mother to a wonderful daughter. She also loved her job helping to run an exclusive resort of lakeside cabins, the family business. Then everything fell apart when her husband left her for another woman and her best friend in life ghosted her. It’s now been years since she’s heard from Natalie, an internationally famous actress, and suddenly she receives an urgent message from her asking for help. Milly is still hurt from being abandoned but agrees to allow her to stay with her while she weathers the storm from a scandal.
the heart of the story…
Milly and Natalie struggle to connect with each other as one is still hurt and the other is consumed with guilt for having caused that pain. Their issues aren’t petty but the stuff of real life as Natalie fears losing her friend forever and Milly is scared to trust again. Add to that a difficult ex-husband with a new (and younger) wife and a teenaged daughter who’s grappling with her own issues and you have a meaty story balanced with some romantic elements and multigenerational characters.
the narration…
Henrietta Meire delivered a lovely performance, finding the right balance between being lighthearted and sobering. I enjoyed her storytelling.
the bottom line…
I was looking for a realistic story involving mature characters that had some depth and this met my expectations. The issues were relevant and the paths to resolution rocky and authentic. The romantic elements may have been idealistic but it was what I needed. This was a timely story of two friends who lost their way and managed to find each other and themselves in that journey.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Milly Beckett thought she had it all. She was happily married and mother to a wonderful daughter. She also loved her job helping to run an exclusive resort of lakeside cabins, the family business. Then everything fell apart when her husband left her for another woman and her best friend in life ghosted her. It’s now been years since she’s heard from Natalie, an internationally famous actress, and suddenly she receives an urgent message from her asking for help. Milly is still hurt from being abandoned but agrees to allow her to stay with her while she weathers the storm from a scandal.
the heart of the story…
Milly and Natalie struggle to connect with each other as one is still hurt and the other is consumed with guilt for having caused that pain. Their issues aren’t petty but the stuff of real life as Natalie fears losing her friend forever and Milly is scared to trust again. Add to that a difficult ex-husband with a new (and younger) wife and a teenaged daughter who’s grappling with her own issues and you have a meaty story balanced with some romantic elements and multigenerational characters.
the narration…
Henrietta Meire delivered a lovely performance, finding the right balance between being lighthearted and sobering. I enjoyed her storytelling.
the bottom line…
I was looking for a realistic story involving mature characters that had some depth and this met my expectations. The issues were relevant and the paths to resolution rocky and authentic. The romantic elements may have been idealistic but it was what I needed. This was a timely story of two friends who lost their way and managed to find each other and themselves in that journey.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Harlequin Audio and NetGalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
June 1, 2025
"Love provided insulation from the cuts and bruises of life, and so did trust."
March 17, 2025
I am a huge fan of Sarah Morgan and love her books – they are full of warmth, always have a great storyline, with engaging characters and a large sprinkle of magic. I thoroughly enjoyed her last book, The Summer Swap, and was so very pleased and excited to be able to read an advanced copy of A Secret Escape – thank you!
The two main characters in the book are Milly and Nicole. Milly and Nicole, once inseparable childhood friends, who experienced a falling out a few years ago and have not spoken since. Nicole works in a very high-pressured job as a renowned international film star. and has always struggled with her work-life balance. Milly owns a holiday home business in the Lake District and when Nicole, after two years of no communication, got in touch asking for help, she let Nicole stay at one of her rental holiday homes.
Milly was taken by surprise and felt a whirlwind of emotions when she unexpectedly heard from Nicole, leaving her uncertain about how to respond. However, despite her reservations, Milly couldn't deny how much she had missed Nicole and their friendship and deep bond they once shared. So, Milly saw this as a potential path to reconciliation, but the decision wasn't easy. She felt uncertain about where it might lead and unsure of the outcome. Milly was aware it wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to give it a go.
Nicole, struggling with personal and work challenges, needed a place to stay. She had been grappling with the emotional fallout of a deeply painful divorce and was relentlessly being pursued by the Media. By reaching out to Milly, she showed her genuine wish to repair the connections they once had. She also believed the Lake District was the perfect place to rest and help her understand a way forward. She missed Milly greatly and wanted to try and rebuild their friendship.
Over the summer, Milly and Nicole reconnect and get to know each other again. Their journey is full of ups and downs, with many twists and turns. They revisit old memories, many of which are painful memories from their past, uncover secrets, and learn to trust each other – slowly but surely. Despite the challenges, their bond grows stronger as they face life's storms together.
Milly and Nicole both need to confront their past and come to terms with the reasons behind their estrangement, navigating through the pain and misunderstandings that occurred. This book demonstrates that even long-broken friendships can be mended over time, by revisiting cherished memories and forging a new path forward together. This wonderful book beautifully explores themes of friendship, family, love, self-discovery, and fresh beginnings. To move forward, we need to embrace change, creating opportunities for our own personal growth and make new experiences.
The novel spans multiple generations of women. I adored Milly and Nicole, but the delightful Nanna Peg truly stole my heart – she was just brilliant and made me laugh immensely! Such a great character.
I highly recommend A Secret Escape and give it a massive 5 stars. Once again, Sarah Morgan has delivered another brilliant book – thank you!
I would like to end with an inspiring quote from Catherine Pulsifer: “Every day is a chance to begin again. Don't focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations." - Catherine Pulsifer
Thank you very much HarperCollins Publishers UK and NetGalley for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
The two main characters in the book are Milly and Nicole. Milly and Nicole, once inseparable childhood friends, who experienced a falling out a few years ago and have not spoken since. Nicole works in a very high-pressured job as a renowned international film star. and has always struggled with her work-life balance. Milly owns a holiday home business in the Lake District and when Nicole, after two years of no communication, got in touch asking for help, she let Nicole stay at one of her rental holiday homes.
Milly was taken by surprise and felt a whirlwind of emotions when she unexpectedly heard from Nicole, leaving her uncertain about how to respond. However, despite her reservations, Milly couldn't deny how much she had missed Nicole and their friendship and deep bond they once shared. So, Milly saw this as a potential path to reconciliation, but the decision wasn't easy. She felt uncertain about where it might lead and unsure of the outcome. Milly was aware it wouldn't be easy, but she was determined to give it a go.
Nicole, struggling with personal and work challenges, needed a place to stay. She had been grappling with the emotional fallout of a deeply painful divorce and was relentlessly being pursued by the Media. By reaching out to Milly, she showed her genuine wish to repair the connections they once had. She also believed the Lake District was the perfect place to rest and help her understand a way forward. She missed Milly greatly and wanted to try and rebuild their friendship.
Over the summer, Milly and Nicole reconnect and get to know each other again. Their journey is full of ups and downs, with many twists and turns. They revisit old memories, many of which are painful memories from their past, uncover secrets, and learn to trust each other – slowly but surely. Despite the challenges, their bond grows stronger as they face life's storms together.
Milly and Nicole both need to confront their past and come to terms with the reasons behind their estrangement, navigating through the pain and misunderstandings that occurred. This book demonstrates that even long-broken friendships can be mended over time, by revisiting cherished memories and forging a new path forward together. This wonderful book beautifully explores themes of friendship, family, love, self-discovery, and fresh beginnings. To move forward, we need to embrace change, creating opportunities for our own personal growth and make new experiences.
The novel spans multiple generations of women. I adored Milly and Nicole, but the delightful Nanna Peg truly stole my heart – she was just brilliant and made me laugh immensely! Such a great character.
I highly recommend A Secret Escape and give it a massive 5 stars. Once again, Sarah Morgan has delivered another brilliant book – thank you!
I would like to end with an inspiring quote from Catherine Pulsifer: “Every day is a chance to begin again. Don't focus on the failures of yesterday, start today with positive thoughts and expectations." - Catherine Pulsifer
Thank you very much HarperCollins Publishers UK and NetGalley for my advanced copy. This review is based on a NetGalley ARC provided in exchange for an honest and unbiased opinion.
July 8, 2025
USA Today Best Selling Author Sarah Morgan is a comfort read for me. “Other People’s Summer” was just that.
It’s a novel about two best friends, their very different lives and how they navigate through some of life’s challenging times and are put to the test to figure out what’s most important. Nicole, a famous movie star and Milly a now single mother are holding grudges, shame, secrets and fear. “Other People’s Summer” tests forgiveness and the power of a lifelong friendship. A page turner filled with family, new love and bravery. You will come to love the Lakeside Resort and wish just a little that you could be there too.
I highly recommend this entertaining read. A contemporary romance with second chances and the impact our decisions can make. It’s hopeful, charming and resilient.
Thank you to Canary Street Press and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
It’s a novel about two best friends, their very different lives and how they navigate through some of life’s challenging times and are put to the test to figure out what’s most important. Nicole, a famous movie star and Milly a now single mother are holding grudges, shame, secrets and fear. “Other People’s Summer” tests forgiveness and the power of a lifelong friendship. A page turner filled with family, new love and bravery. You will come to love the Lakeside Resort and wish just a little that you could be there too.
I highly recommend this entertaining read. A contemporary romance with second chances and the impact our decisions can make. It’s hopeful, charming and resilient.
Thank you to Canary Street Press and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 22, 2025
Yay! Sarah Morgan is back! I didn’t need to even open the book to know that it was going to be a 5-star read.
Escape to the Lake District where Milly runs a holiday home business, Forest Nest. It is the picture of calm and tranquillity – exactly what estranged best friend, Nicole, is hoping for. Calling up Milly out of the blue, Nicole wants to escape her glamorous Hollywood life and lay low in the Lakes. What exactly is she hiding?
Not only is Nicole’s life topsy turvy, Milly’s isn’t exactly a bed of roses, either. The story moves between Milly, her daughter and her mother, and I loved how Morgan adds layers to the different generations of women. Life is never simple and I think the writer vividly captures the highs and lows that we all experience. In Milly’s case, divorcing her husband continues to cause pain and she finds herself throwing everything at her business and being the best mother she can – leaving any chance of personal happiness at the bottom of her priorities.
Over time, readers learn what brings Nicole to the Lake District and what she is running from. Like so many of Morgan’s books, the journey is never simple and I enjoyed the way that Brendan and Joel became such significant characters. Furthermore, all of the women were interesting to read about and I felt equally invested in them, regardless of the age difference. The characters are all easy to warm to and I was keen to see them find a happy ending.
Elements of this book reminded me of a previous Morgan read, namely because of the lake setting. I could vividly picture why Milly and Nicole find their inner peace at Forest Nest and felt envious of the characters being able to stay there – it truly seemed idyllic! The theme of broken families was also similar to my last Morgan book, although I enjoyed how this also became woven with friendship and loyalty.
Another exceptional read from Sarah Morgan. I always pick up her books with a smile on my face because I know I am guaranteed a good plot, great characters and an enticing setting. Bring on Christmas for her festive novel!
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Escape to the Lake District where Milly runs a holiday home business, Forest Nest. It is the picture of calm and tranquillity – exactly what estranged best friend, Nicole, is hoping for. Calling up Milly out of the blue, Nicole wants to escape her glamorous Hollywood life and lay low in the Lakes. What exactly is she hiding?
Not only is Nicole’s life topsy turvy, Milly’s isn’t exactly a bed of roses, either. The story moves between Milly, her daughter and her mother, and I loved how Morgan adds layers to the different generations of women. Life is never simple and I think the writer vividly captures the highs and lows that we all experience. In Milly’s case, divorcing her husband continues to cause pain and she finds herself throwing everything at her business and being the best mother she can – leaving any chance of personal happiness at the bottom of her priorities.
Over time, readers learn what brings Nicole to the Lake District and what she is running from. Like so many of Morgan’s books, the journey is never simple and I enjoyed the way that Brendan and Joel became such significant characters. Furthermore, all of the women were interesting to read about and I felt equally invested in them, regardless of the age difference. The characters are all easy to warm to and I was keen to see them find a happy ending.
Elements of this book reminded me of a previous Morgan read, namely because of the lake setting. I could vividly picture why Milly and Nicole find their inner peace at Forest Nest and felt envious of the characters being able to stay there – it truly seemed idyllic! The theme of broken families was also similar to my last Morgan book, although I enjoyed how this also became woven with friendship and loyalty.
Another exceptional read from Sarah Morgan. I always pick up her books with a smile on my face because I know I am guaranteed a good plot, great characters and an enticing setting. Bring on Christmas for her festive novel!
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2025
You can't go wrong with a Sarah Morgan book. This one did not disappoint. Another excellent book.
It was a very powerful story about family and friendships. Milly and Nicole are both exceptional characters. However, you couldn't beat Nanna Peg!
It expresses how important it is to focus on the now and to be grateful for what you have to live a contented and happy life. There are a lot of positive statements to take from this book.
Thank you very much to Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy.
It was a very powerful story about family and friendships. Milly and Nicole are both exceptional characters. However, you couldn't beat Nanna Peg!
It expresses how important it is to focus on the now and to be grateful for what you have to live a contented and happy life. There are a lot of positive statements to take from this book.
Thank you very much to Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy.
July 3, 2025
De beste zomer ooit van Sarah Morgan mocht ik lezen voor de @worldofromancenl Boekenlounge 💕
Nicole is een superster, maar door een gebeurtenis wil ze zich verstoppen. Ze belt haar beste vriendin van vroeger: Milly. Milly wil altijd helpen, ook al hebben ze elkaar 1,5 jaar niet gesproken. In het begin is hun contact koeltjes. Het duurt even voor je als lezer weet wat de reden is.
Je leest het verhaal vanuit meerdere perspectieven, bij dit verhaal was dat echt een must. Iedereen had namelijk geheimen, maar het duurde lang voordat je ze als lezer wist. De personages waren erg goed in van een mug een olifant maken..
De omgeving waar het boek zich afspeelt lijkt me heerlijk: een meer in de bergen, huisjes eromheen. Ideaal om te relaxen en af en toe te hiken.
Ik had meer van het boek verwacht, helaas. Het kabbelde een beetje voort en de grote geheimen vielen dus eigenlijk best mee. Fijn was het natuurlijk wel dat alles goed afliep voor iedereen.
Joel was mijn favoriete personage in dit verhaal 😄
Bedankt @worldofromancenl voor het boek!
Nicole is een superster, maar door een gebeurtenis wil ze zich verstoppen. Ze belt haar beste vriendin van vroeger: Milly. Milly wil altijd helpen, ook al hebben ze elkaar 1,5 jaar niet gesproken. In het begin is hun contact koeltjes. Het duurt even voor je als lezer weet wat de reden is.
Je leest het verhaal vanuit meerdere perspectieven, bij dit verhaal was dat echt een must. Iedereen had namelijk geheimen, maar het duurde lang voordat je ze als lezer wist. De personages waren erg goed in van een mug een olifant maken..
De omgeving waar het boek zich afspeelt lijkt me heerlijk: een meer in de bergen, huisjes eromheen. Ideaal om te relaxen en af en toe te hiken.
Ik had meer van het boek verwacht, helaas. Het kabbelde een beetje voort en de grote geheimen vielen dus eigenlijk best mee. Fijn was het natuurlijk wel dat alles goed afliep voor iedereen.
Joel was mijn favoriete personage in dit verhaal 😄
Bedankt @worldofromancenl voor het boek!
May 6, 2025
If you’re already building a summer reading stack, please add this one to the pile! Sarah Morgan’s latest, OTHER PEOPLE’S SUMMERS is the perfect book to throw in your beach bag this summer. Just look at that beautiful cover—I wanna jump right in! I’ve been reading the author’s books for years now, and love how reliable she’s become. I can count on Morgan for a solid women’s fiction novel each and every single time. In true Sarah Morgan fashion, there’s strong themes of family, friendship, marriage, and romance included.
The vast age range of the characters makes for a fantastic cast. Multiple generations of women are included—from new teen to elderly grandmother—the representation is all there. The bonds and relationships between the women is what truly makes this story sparkle. Their humor and fun banter will bring a smile to your face, and give you all the feels.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
“𝘈 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘥𝘺𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘤 𝘌𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘚𝘈 𝘛��𝘋𝘈𝘠 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭, 𝘖𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦’𝘴 𝘚𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘶𝘴.”
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Female friendship
- Mother/daughter relationships
- Second chances
- Fresh starts and personal growth
- Reflections on forgiveness and healing
- Marriage and divorce
- Lakeside resort setting
- Secrets and betrayal
- Insight on parenting teenagers
Please don’t miss out on this warm and heartfelt gem! OTHER PEOPLE’S SUMMERS is out TODAY! 4/5 stars!
The vast age range of the characters makes for a fantastic cast. Multiple generations of women are included—from new teen to elderly grandmother—the representation is all there. The bonds and relationships between the women is what truly makes this story sparkle. Their humor and fun banter will bring a smile to your face, and give you all the feels.
ABOUT THE BOOK:
“𝘈 𝘧𝘢𝘮𝘰𝘶𝘴 𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘪𝘴 𝘶𝘯𝘳𝘢𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘭𝘦𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘢𝘯 𝘪𝘥𝘺𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘤 𝘌𝘯𝘨𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩 𝘭𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘰𝘳𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘨𝘩𝘰𝘴𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘨𝘯𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘵𝘺 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘜𝘚𝘈 𝘛��𝘋𝘈𝘠 𝘣𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘉𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘊𝘭𝘶𝘣 𝘏𝘰𝘵𝘦𝘭. 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘩𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘧𝘶𝘭, 𝘖𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘗𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦’𝘴 𝘚𝘶𝘮𝘮𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘺 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘯𝘥𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘱, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘰𝘳𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘪𝘤𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘪𝘯 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦 𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘦 𝘶𝘴.”
READ THIS IF YOU ENJOY:
- Female friendship
- Mother/daughter relationships
- Second chances
- Fresh starts and personal growth
- Reflections on forgiveness and healing
- Marriage and divorce
- Lakeside resort setting
- Secrets and betrayal
- Insight on parenting teenagers
Please don’t miss out on this warm and heartfelt gem! OTHER PEOPLE’S SUMMERS is out TODAY! 4/5 stars!
May 23, 2025
4 stars. 🎧
July 3, 2025
Every feeling needs to be spelled out in this novel (preferably multiple times), but I still wanted to keep on reading.
February 10, 2026
3.5 stars. Enjoyable, but predictable.
May 31, 2025
Review coming soon.
September 5, 2025
Adorei este livro!! 🥹 A forma como a escrita da autora nos faz sentir que fazemos parte do mundo e da família das personagens é incrível! Eu amo a escrita dela!!
A história passa-se no verão, mas não diria que é super focado nisso, ou seja, não o categorizaria como um romance de verão. Simplesmente passa-se nessa época! Senti que o início do livro prolongou a introdução um pouco em demasia, com muita narrativa repetitiva e poucos diálogos. Contudo, quando a história se começou a desenvolver foi incrível! Fiquei super viciada como se fizesse parte daquela família e foi muito cozy!! Adorei as personagens (em especial a avó Peggy e a Zoe)!! 🥹
Algo que amo nos livros desta autora é que conseguimos sempre retirar uma lição para a vida! São livros familiares, cozy, que aquecem o coração e que nos fazem pensar sobre a vida! Amo! 💗
A história passa-se no verão, mas não diria que é super focado nisso, ou seja, não o categorizaria como um romance de verão. Simplesmente passa-se nessa época! Senti que o início do livro prolongou a introdução um pouco em demasia, com muita narrativa repetitiva e poucos diálogos. Contudo, quando a história se começou a desenvolver foi incrível! Fiquei super viciada como se fizesse parte daquela família e foi muito cozy!! Adorei as personagens (em especial a avó Peggy e a Zoe)!! 🥹
Algo que amo nos livros desta autora é que conseguimos sempre retirar uma lição para a vida! São livros familiares, cozy, que aquecem o coração e que nos fazem pensar sobre a vida! Amo! 💗
May 14, 2025
Sarah Morgan novels are pure escapism and I really enjoyed A Secret Escape. It’s billed as a feel-good novel friendship, forgiveness and love and I devoured each page. It follows the story of Milly and Nicole. Milly is now a single mum and runs a holiday home business, whilst Nicole is a successful actress living in LA. They lost contact years ago, but when Nicole calls Milly for help, she drops everything giving her a place to hide. Will they be able to reconnect throughout the summer? This is a fabulous novel with endearing characters and a plot that unfolds perfectly. Thank you to NetGalley, HQ and the author for the chance to review.
July 16, 2025
This one is so good from start to finish. Another one to prove why Sarah Morgan is a go to author. The main focus of this one is friendship mostly between the main two characters Milly and Nicole however many more blossom on the way through. I love how they think the other one has life sorted when they've been apart. The downsides of fame are so interesting to read about from Nicole's side of the story. Highly recommend.
May 14, 2025
4.5 Stars
Milly and Nicole have been best friends since childhood staying close even when their lives took very different paths. Nicole fulfilled her dream of becoming a famous actor and Milly took over her family’s resort in the Lake District, marrying and having a child. However, when Milly’s husband left her for another woman, Nicole ghosted her, breaking her heart even more.
Now, Nicole is in desperate need of sanctuary, a place to hide out when scandal hits, and she calls Milly. Milly isn’t keen on helping, but she can’t say no.
I was pulled into the story from the first page! Milly was trying to do her best raising her teenage daughter while managing the hurt and betrayal she felt not only by her ex-husband (a real jerk!), but by the abandonment of her best friend. I wouldn’t have been too happy with Nicole either if I were Milly, but I was eager to hear what was behind her behavior.
Nicole was dealing with a lot. She was grateful for the second chance with Milly and her family, the only place she ever felt loved growing up.
Other People’s Summers was such a lovely, compelling story; completely captivating! Sarah Morgan writes flawed, relatable characters that I end up rooting for every time! Her settings are always gorgeous, making me want to visit every place she writes about. There was even a bit of romance for both Milly and Nicole. A definite recommend!
I alternately listened to and read an audio and e-copy. I’ve listened to and enjoyed Henrietta Meire in the past and she performed all voices, male and female beautifully with appropriate emotions. I can recommend either version.
Advanced readers copy and listening copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Milly and Nicole have been best friends since childhood staying close even when their lives took very different paths. Nicole fulfilled her dream of becoming a famous actor and Milly took over her family’s resort in the Lake District, marrying and having a child. However, when Milly’s husband left her for another woman, Nicole ghosted her, breaking her heart even more.
Now, Nicole is in desperate need of sanctuary, a place to hide out when scandal hits, and she calls Milly. Milly isn’t keen on helping, but she can’t say no.
I was pulled into the story from the first page! Milly was trying to do her best raising her teenage daughter while managing the hurt and betrayal she felt not only by her ex-husband (a real jerk!), but by the abandonment of her best friend. I wouldn’t have been too happy with Nicole either if I were Milly, but I was eager to hear what was behind her behavior.
Nicole was dealing with a lot. She was grateful for the second chance with Milly and her family, the only place she ever felt loved growing up.
Other People’s Summers was such a lovely, compelling story; completely captivating! Sarah Morgan writes flawed, relatable characters that I end up rooting for every time! Her settings are always gorgeous, making me want to visit every place she writes about. There was even a bit of romance for both Milly and Nicole. A definite recommend!
I alternately listened to and read an audio and e-copy. I’ve listened to and enjoyed Henrietta Meire in the past and she performed all voices, male and female beautifully with appropriate emotions. I can recommend either version.
Advanced readers copy and listening copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
August 28, 2025
Super cute coming of age story :) love a good reunited friendship
July 20, 2025
3.95 ☀️❤️🩹
Cute summery read + love the author’s writing! Will be reading the book club hotel when winter comes!!
Cute summery read + love the author’s writing! Will be reading the book club hotel when winter comes!!
May 7, 2025
Nicole and Milly have been friends since childhood, but suddenly, when Milly needed Nicole the most, Nicole ghosted her. Milly suffered through a devastating divorce and her best friend wasn’t there to support her. Meanwhile, Nicole has made a big splash as an actor, but she needs a place to escape and hide away while she recovers from her own problems. The two old friends are not ready to fall into each other’s arms, but Milly does all she can to make sure that Nicole is comfortable. With characters that pop off the page into your heart, this is a fantastic story about friendship, self-discovery and acceptance, and forgiveness. The setting of a small camp in the Lake District is perfect for this moving tale to unfold because as Nicole and Milly bend towards re-establishing friendship, the place they stay calls to them peacefully to make peace with each other and to recall the good times they had there as children. I really liked all of the characters, but Zoe was a favorite, a teen with wisdom and compassion for her mom as she tried to understand the complexities of what a divorce meant to her relationship with her dad. The pace is perfect for this contemporary fiction that explores deep emotional connections, the ones that are lost and new ones that are just beginning.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book 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 of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review, and all opinions expressed are my own.
April 28, 2025
You can always rely on Sarah Morgan to provide the most lovely, heartwarming stories, and A Secret Escape is no exception. I'm hugely grateful to HQ for sending me an early proof copy!
A Secret Escape is set in the Lake District (my favourite part of the world!), where we follow lifelong friends Milly and Nicole, who have hit a rocky patch in their friendship. Nicole's career as a high-profile actress in Hollywood is in tatters after a public scandal and she turns to her oldest friend for help, but will Milly be willing to give her a shoulder to cry on after being ghosted by Nicole for so long?
Milly herself is still reeling from a difficult breakup with her ex-husband, and is juggling her emotions alongside raising their young daughter. Milly and Nicole's friendship is put to the test further as more secrets are revealed about Milly's breakup, and it's becoming increasingly difficult for them to find their way back to each other.
Overall, this is the perfect book to escape with this summer, whether it's by the pool on holiday or curled up on your sofa!
A Secret Escape is set in the Lake District (my favourite part of the world!), where we follow lifelong friends Milly and Nicole, who have hit a rocky patch in their friendship. Nicole's career as a high-profile actress in Hollywood is in tatters after a public scandal and she turns to her oldest friend for help, but will Milly be willing to give her a shoulder to cry on after being ghosted by Nicole for so long?
Milly herself is still reeling from a difficult breakup with her ex-husband, and is juggling her emotions alongside raising their young daughter. Milly and Nicole's friendship is put to the test further as more secrets are revealed about Milly's breakup, and it's becoming increasingly difficult for them to find their way back to each other.
Overall, this is the perfect book to escape with this summer, whether it's by the pool on holiday or curled up on your sofa!
Read
July 4, 2025Libby audio. Gah. I love Sarah Morgan. But this was a kiss for me. The movie star character was really whiney and big turn off. I felt like there wasn’t much of a plot.
July 20, 2025
Misschien iets minder hartverwarmend dan anders maar wel in anderhalve dag uitgelezen .
Gewoon weer een fijn verhaal over vriendschap en familie met een klein beetje romantiek .
Gewoon weer een fijn verhaal over vriendschap en familie met een klein beetje romantiek .
June 26, 2025
Review time: De Beste Zomer Ooit 🩷🏔️👭
Deze week las ik De Beste Zomer Ooit van @sarahmorganwrites! Wat een heerlijk zomers boek! Bedankt @worldofromancenl en @harpercollins_holland voor het opsturen van dit recensie-exemplaar. 😊
De Beste Zomer Ooit van Sarah Morgan is precies wat je wil lezen op een zonnige dag. Dit warme, meeslepende verhaal draait om twee beste vriendinnen die door een moeilijke periode gaan. Nicole, een beroemde actrice wiens leven op z’n kop staat na een schandaal, gaat op de vlucht. Ze klopt aan bij haar oude vriendin Milly, die ze anderhalf jaar geleden heeft laten vallen, en vraagt om hulp.
Milly twijfelt, maar biedt haar toch onderdak in haar charmante cottage in het prachtige Lake District. Daar, tussen de heuvels en kabbelende meren, proberen de twee vrouwen hun vriendschap te herstellen. Ondertussen ontstaat er een nieuwe romance in Milly’s leven, maar ook komen er geheimen boven tafel die alles kunnen veranderen…
Een verhaal over vergeving, tweede kansen en de kracht van echte vriendschap. Ik gaf dit boek uiteindelijk 3.75 sterren! ⭐ Echt een aanrader voor de zomer!
Deze week las ik De Beste Zomer Ooit van @sarahmorganwrites! Wat een heerlijk zomers boek! Bedankt @worldofromancenl en @harpercollins_holland voor het opsturen van dit recensie-exemplaar. 😊
De Beste Zomer Ooit van Sarah Morgan is precies wat je wil lezen op een zonnige dag. Dit warme, meeslepende verhaal draait om twee beste vriendinnen die door een moeilijke periode gaan. Nicole, een beroemde actrice wiens leven op z’n kop staat na een schandaal, gaat op de vlucht. Ze klopt aan bij haar oude vriendin Milly, die ze anderhalf jaar geleden heeft laten vallen, en vraagt om hulp.
Milly twijfelt, maar biedt haar toch onderdak in haar charmante cottage in het prachtige Lake District. Daar, tussen de heuvels en kabbelende meren, proberen de twee vrouwen hun vriendschap te herstellen. Ondertussen ontstaat er een nieuwe romance in Milly’s leven, maar ook komen er geheimen boven tafel die alles kunnen veranderen…
Een verhaal over vergeving, tweede kansen en de kracht van echte vriendschap. Ik gaf dit boek uiteindelijk 3.75 sterren! ⭐ Echt een aanrader voor de zomer!
June 27, 2025
Other People's Summer by Sarah Morgan is one of those books you can read with a book club of all ages. Sweet and safe, this women's lit examines friendships, family dynamics and forgiveness.
Milly and Nicole were inseparable as teenagers, the best of friends. As early adults their lives took very different turns. Milly, becoming pregnant, married an older man and gained confidence through her husband and mothering. Nicole, with dreams of being a star, headed to the bright lights of a Hollywood lifestyle.
Somewhere along he lines, they lost each other and now, new divorced and out of luck Mily receives a phone call from the celebrity actress she used to call her bestie.
Nicole is struggling too, though we are not sure why, and as the story unfolds and these two find their friendship again, many secrets unfold.
I had the opportunity to listen to a fantastic audio edition of this thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio. It was done well and moved quickly, a great women's lit read for lovers of Jodi Picoult and Jojo Moyes.
Milly and Nicole were inseparable as teenagers, the best of friends. As early adults their lives took very different turns. Milly, becoming pregnant, married an older man and gained confidence through her husband and mothering. Nicole, with dreams of being a star, headed to the bright lights of a Hollywood lifestyle.
Somewhere along he lines, they lost each other and now, new divorced and out of luck Mily receives a phone call from the celebrity actress she used to call her bestie.
Nicole is struggling too, though we are not sure why, and as the story unfolds and these two find their friendship again, many secrets unfold.
I had the opportunity to listen to a fantastic audio edition of this thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Audio. It was done well and moved quickly, a great women's lit read for lovers of Jodi Picoult and Jojo Moyes.
May 4, 2025
I loved every character in this book. Each character has their own neurotic issues. So, there is someone in this book you can relate to…trust me!
Nicole is a famous movie star. She ghosted her best friend, Milly, when Milly needed her the most. Now Nicole needs Milly to help her, and of course, Milly comes to her rescue….But, their path back to “best friends” is not going to be easy.
I have said this before and I will say it again…I love a book with secrets and this book has quite a few. Nicole is definitely holding out on Milly. But, Milly just can’t quite let her back in. And when the secret comes out, as it always does, look out!
Need a book to just take you away…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
Nicole is a famous movie star. She ghosted her best friend, Milly, when Milly needed her the most. Now Nicole needs Milly to help her, and of course, Milly comes to her rescue….But, their path back to “best friends” is not going to be easy.
I have said this before and I will say it again…I love a book with secrets and this book has quite a few. Nicole is definitely holding out on Milly. But, Milly just can’t quite let her back in. And when the secret comes out, as it always does, look out!
Need a book to just take you away…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today.
I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.
April 20, 2026
Milly kämpft mit ihrem Alltag. Die Scheidung von ihrem Ex-Mann war schmerzhaft und sie tut alles, damit ihre Tochter möglichst unbelastet davon bleibt. Doch dabei bleibt sie selbts auf der Strecke und ihre beste Freundin Nicole hat sie in der schwersten Zeit in ihrem Leben einfach geghosted. Das hat sie fast mehr verletzt, als der Betrug ihres Mannes.
Nicole wiederum hat ihr Leben als Filmstar nicht mehr im Griff. Längst ist ihr Privatleben nicht mehr privat und ihre schauspielerische Leistung ist nicht mehr interessant, nur ihr Priavtleben scheint noch für die Presse im Vordergrund zu stehen. Da flüchtet sie sich zu ihrer besten Freundin, in der Hoffnung dass diese ihr helfen kann. Und dass ihre Beziehung vielleicht noch zu retten ist.
Sarah Morgan schafft es in einem bezaubernden Setting eine Geschichte zu erzählen, in der es neben der persönlichen Entwicklung der Protagonisten auch um ein Thema geht, das in dieser Zeit recht wichtig geworden ist, der Umgang mit sozialen Medien, besonders in Verbindung mit Prominenz. Nicole kann ihr normales Leben nicht mehr leben, da sie komplett unter Beobachtung steht und jede Aktion sofort kommentiert wird.
Schön fand ich aber auch Millys Geschichte. Selbst vom Vater verlassen versucht sie alles ihrer Tochter den Kontakt zu deren Vater weiter möglichst Urteilsfrei zu ermöglichen. Dabei merkt sie gar nicht wie sie ihre eigenen Bedürfnisse völlig ignoriert und damit einen Abschluss dieses Lebensabschnitts verhindert.
Die Liebe kommt auch nicht zu kurz und auch Millys Mutter bekommt ihren Platz in der Geschichte. Die Gemeinschaft die dabei entsteht ist wirklich schön.
Ich kann das Buch auf jeden Fall empfehlen. Es ist ein schöner Zeitvertreib mit einer zeitgemässen Geschichte.
Nicole wiederum hat ihr Leben als Filmstar nicht mehr im Griff. Längst ist ihr Privatleben nicht mehr privat und ihre schauspielerische Leistung ist nicht mehr interessant, nur ihr Priavtleben scheint noch für die Presse im Vordergrund zu stehen. Da flüchtet sie sich zu ihrer besten Freundin, in der Hoffnung dass diese ihr helfen kann. Und dass ihre Beziehung vielleicht noch zu retten ist.
Sarah Morgan schafft es in einem bezaubernden Setting eine Geschichte zu erzählen, in der es neben der persönlichen Entwicklung der Protagonisten auch um ein Thema geht, das in dieser Zeit recht wichtig geworden ist, der Umgang mit sozialen Medien, besonders in Verbindung mit Prominenz. Nicole kann ihr normales Leben nicht mehr leben, da sie komplett unter Beobachtung steht und jede Aktion sofort kommentiert wird.
Schön fand ich aber auch Millys Geschichte. Selbst vom Vater verlassen versucht sie alles ihrer Tochter den Kontakt zu deren Vater weiter möglichst Urteilsfrei zu ermöglichen. Dabei merkt sie gar nicht wie sie ihre eigenen Bedürfnisse völlig ignoriert und damit einen Abschluss dieses Lebensabschnitts verhindert.
Die Liebe kommt auch nicht zu kurz und auch Millys Mutter bekommt ihren Platz in der Geschichte. Die Gemeinschaft die dabei entsteht ist wirklich schön.
Ich kann das Buch auf jeden Fall empfehlen. Es ist ein schöner Zeitvertreib mit einer zeitgemässen Geschichte.
August 18, 2025
This was a sweet and relaxing story! I liked the audiobook narrator and the calm setting, and it felt like a Hallmark movie. Nothing super special but still enjoyable. Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of the audiobook!
August 1, 2025
Good summer read.
September 23, 2025
This was a fun summer read with the happy ending to boot!
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