What do you think?
Rate this book
What Happened That Summer
Not yet published
Expected 3 Jan 26You think you know what happened that day… But what if you’re wrong?
Everyone remembers where they were when they heard that AJ Silver had died. In summer 1996, there was no avoiding the story that America's biggest teen pop sensation had plunged to his death on a rollercoaster at a family-run amusement park in rural England.
Now, 27 years have passed, and – even if you’re too young to remember the event – you’ve probably heard AJ Silver's songs topping the charts again. So what better time to take a forensic look at what happened that summer?
I’ve spent hundreds of hours interviewing everyone who was there that fateful day: workers, friends, family… the people who gained from his death, and the people who lost everything.
But you’re going to want to pay attention. Because I’ve found out a secret. One you’re all going to want to know… Perhaps it wasn’t such an accident after all?
Everyone remembers where they were when they heard that AJ Silver had died. In summer 1996, there was no avoiding the story that America's biggest teen pop sensation had plunged to his death on a rollercoaster at a family-run amusement park in rural England.
Now, 27 years have passed, and – even if you’re too young to remember the event – you’ve probably heard AJ Silver's songs topping the charts again. So what better time to take a forensic look at what happened that summer?
I’ve spent hundreds of hours interviewing everyone who was there that fateful day: workers, friends, family… the people who gained from his death, and the people who lost everything.
But you’re going to want to pay attention. Because I’ve found out a secret. One you’re all going to want to know… Perhaps it wasn’t such an accident after all?
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 3, 2026
193 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
November 9, 2025
Thanks to Laura for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I am never not going to love a book by Laura, and I was thrilled when she sent me this copy. I don't want to come across corny but Laura is my favourite author and having met her, I can promise she is a lovely woman. It's not common to like every single book one author writes, some will inevitably be stronger than others. But I have now read eight of hers (with two more on the shelf) and thy are all as perfect as the one before and the one after.
It's a different angle than she normally writes, more of a thriller than the speculative fiction I'm used, which could have been a bad move but her writing ability ensures it's as fabulous as ever, and I'm interested to see what other angles she might pursue in the future.
I was concerned at first because there's only about eight chapters across nearly 300 pages, which is about 35 pages a chapter, and I reallllllly don't like long chapters. But because this is written in a script format, a podcast script format, with each chapter a new episode, it really whizzed by and I'm not sure shed have got to the heart of the story as easily if she'd written it as a normal narrative. This throws us straight in and gives us a personal perspective and holds our attention to the end.
It is full of twists and turns and shocks, but they don't feel overwhelming or too unbelievable, with one or two I couldn't have predicted.
I made the mistake of starting it in bed late one night, thinking I'd just read a few pages, but I was coming up halfway before I could bear to part with it. But then I had such a bad night and hardly slept so I returned to it and finished it in the early hours. So I may have been cranky that following morning but boy was it worh with.
We don't get to know the characters as an outsider - like a normal narrative would introduce and describe the characters - but because this is a podcast recording, we don't get that chance to read a physical description. Instead we get to know who they are as people, their likes and dislikes and ambitions. It gets us closer to them. And whilst some are nicer people than others, some goodies and baddies, they are all so distinct, so well written that they become familiar to you and after the first chapter I really felt I knew who they all were, their voices were so clear.
When a story is told over one day or something like that - I know this is technically over a few weeks because it's a podcast series, but it had the same feeling as something written over a short period of time - it can have a tendency to be slow or drawn out and uninspiring. But it felt right. Telling the story in retrospect I think has a stronger impact than if it was told in the usual way.
I could see this as a TV series. Not necessarily in the podcast form, but the actual content of what happened, I could easily see on screen.
Did I like this new angle she's chosen? Yes I did. If I'm completely honest, I prefer her speculative type novels, the ones with a little bit of magic and fantasy about them because that's just the genre I like, but that doesn't take away from the fact that this is another five star read.
I am never not going to love a book by Laura, and I was thrilled when she sent me this copy. I don't want to come across corny but Laura is my favourite author and having met her, I can promise she is a lovely woman. It's not common to like every single book one author writes, some will inevitably be stronger than others. But I have now read eight of hers (with two more on the shelf) and thy are all as perfect as the one before and the one after.
It's a different angle than she normally writes, more of a thriller than the speculative fiction I'm used, which could have been a bad move but her writing ability ensures it's as fabulous as ever, and I'm interested to see what other angles she might pursue in the future.
I was concerned at first because there's only about eight chapters across nearly 300 pages, which is about 35 pages a chapter, and I reallllllly don't like long chapters. But because this is written in a script format, a podcast script format, with each chapter a new episode, it really whizzed by and I'm not sure shed have got to the heart of the story as easily if she'd written it as a normal narrative. This throws us straight in and gives us a personal perspective and holds our attention to the end.
It is full of twists and turns and shocks, but they don't feel overwhelming or too unbelievable, with one or two I couldn't have predicted.
I made the mistake of starting it in bed late one night, thinking I'd just read a few pages, but I was coming up halfway before I could bear to part with it. But then I had such a bad night and hardly slept so I returned to it and finished it in the early hours. So I may have been cranky that following morning but boy was it worh with.
We don't get to know the characters as an outsider - like a normal narrative would introduce and describe the characters - but because this is a podcast recording, we don't get that chance to read a physical description. Instead we get to know who they are as people, their likes and dislikes and ambitions. It gets us closer to them. And whilst some are nicer people than others, some goodies and baddies, they are all so distinct, so well written that they become familiar to you and after the first chapter I really felt I knew who they all were, their voices were so clear.
When a story is told over one day or something like that - I know this is technically over a few weeks because it's a podcast series, but it had the same feeling as something written over a short period of time - it can have a tendency to be slow or drawn out and uninspiring. But it felt right. Telling the story in retrospect I think has a stronger impact than if it was told in the usual way.
I could see this as a TV series. Not necessarily in the podcast form, but the actual content of what happened, I could easily see on screen.
Did I like this new angle she's chosen? Yes I did. If I'm completely honest, I prefer her speculative type novels, the ones with a little bit of magic and fantasy about them because that's just the genre I like, but that doesn't take away from the fact that this is another five star read.
December 14, 2025
What happened that summer
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Listen, I'm a very simple girlie. Every time I see the tag line "for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid", I must read the book because I understant the certain type of vibes is selling and so far I haven't been disappointed.
This book was good and so engaging! I was hooked from the very first page and I read it in one sitting.
What happened that summer is told with a set of interviews, following the shocking death of a highly famous teenage pop star and now, 30 years after the event we are going to discover that there's a lot more that what it seemed with the case.
In a very similar way to Daisy Jones and The Six, the thing that impacted me the most is how well developed are the characters and the story within the frames of a podcast/documentary style of narration. I ended up feeling like I deeply knew this people and their motivations and how they got to the place they are currently at in life.
The story gave not 1 but 2 romances filled with yearning, complicated family dynamics, messy characters that at the same time are easy to understand and a very unique setting.
Another thing that worked for me is that the book is actually quite short (224 pages) so the story is not dragged unnecessarily, it was perfect in that aspect. Amazing for the author giving so much in such little time!
The only thing I didn't quite like entirely was the big plot twist at the end, or at least, part of it (IYKYK). There's absolutely nothing wrong with it per se, I think is just a matter of taste. I kinda saw it coming and I wished for it to go on a different direction. That been said, it didn't ruined my experience at all. I really liked the book and the ending was extremely sweet and had my expectations fulfilled.
I definitely recommend, specially to read during the summer time.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
Listen, I'm a very simple girlie. Every time I see the tag line "for fans of Taylor Jenkins Reid", I must read the book because I understant the certain type of vibes is selling and so far I haven't been disappointed.
This book was good and so engaging! I was hooked from the very first page and I read it in one sitting.
What happened that summer is told with a set of interviews, following the shocking death of a highly famous teenage pop star and now, 30 years after the event we are going to discover that there's a lot more that what it seemed with the case.
In a very similar way to Daisy Jones and The Six, the thing that impacted me the most is how well developed are the characters and the story within the frames of a podcast/documentary style of narration. I ended up feeling like I deeply knew this people and their motivations and how they got to the place they are currently at in life.
The story gave not 1 but 2 romances filled with yearning, complicated family dynamics, messy characters that at the same time are easy to understand and a very unique setting.
Another thing that worked for me is that the book is actually quite short (224 pages) so the story is not dragged unnecessarily, it was perfect in that aspect. Amazing for the author giving so much in such little time!
The only thing I didn't quite like entirely was the big plot twist at the end, or at least, part of it (IYKYK). There's absolutely nothing wrong with it per se, I think is just a matter of taste. I kinda saw it coming and I wished for it to go on a different direction. That been said, it didn't ruined my experience at all. I really liked the book and the ending was extremely sweet and had my expectations fulfilled.
I definitely recommend, specially to read during the summer time.
December 2, 2025
As soon as I saw the cover of What Happened That Summer, Laura Pearson’s New Year publication, I knew I was about to read something unalike her previous books. Laura’s covers are usually instantly recognisable, but this had an unfamiliar feel to it. It has a Taylor Jenkins Reid vibe. As soon as I started reading, I knew I was right. I am a fan of Laura’s writing, but this new style excited me as a reader.
The book takes us back to 1996. The world is in the thrall of teen idol sensation, AJ Silver. From the outset, we know that AJ died in an accident that summer, aged just 17. The story is told through a podcast format, individual episodes revealed in separate chapters. These episodes talk to everyone who was involved, each giving their own perspectives.
The book feels like a new bold new departure for the author, and I have to say, I really enjoyed this change of direction. It felt very fresh, very relevant. I genuinely felt that I was listening to a gripping podcast, I can see this book making a fabulous audiobook. Fans of Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera and None of This is True by Lisa Jewell, will love What Happened That Summer.
Getting to know the characters through their own words and thoughts, but also through the eyes of others was really interesting. It helps the reader to find the truth, that always exists somewhere between everyone’s own narrative. Having the opportunity to meet many of the cast, nearly three decades later, felt like a full circle moment.
As I was reading, and thoroughly enjoying the book, I was desperately hoping the ending would live up to my high expectations; as a wonderful book can be spoiled by a poor ending. I’m sure other readers will understand this feeling too. I was so relieved and happy to find that I loved the ending.
I have read, and enjoyed, virtually all of the author’s books, but this one has shot to the top of my favourites. I see this book being a firm favourite, helping readers to get through their post Christmas blues; when we will all be craving the warmth of the summer sun.
The book takes us back to 1996. The world is in the thrall of teen idol sensation, AJ Silver. From the outset, we know that AJ died in an accident that summer, aged just 17. The story is told through a podcast format, individual episodes revealed in separate chapters. These episodes talk to everyone who was involved, each giving their own perspectives.
The book feels like a new bold new departure for the author, and I have to say, I really enjoyed this change of direction. It felt very fresh, very relevant. I genuinely felt that I was listening to a gripping podcast, I can see this book making a fabulous audiobook. Fans of Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera and None of This is True by Lisa Jewell, will love What Happened That Summer.
Getting to know the characters through their own words and thoughts, but also through the eyes of others was really interesting. It helps the reader to find the truth, that always exists somewhere between everyone’s own narrative. Having the opportunity to meet many of the cast, nearly three decades later, felt like a full circle moment.
As I was reading, and thoroughly enjoying the book, I was desperately hoping the ending would live up to my high expectations; as a wonderful book can be spoiled by a poor ending. I’m sure other readers will understand this feeling too. I was so relieved and happy to find that I loved the ending.
I have read, and enjoyed, virtually all of the author’s books, but this one has shot to the top of my favourites. I see this book being a firm favourite, helping readers to get through their post Christmas blues; when we will all be craving the warmth of the summer sun.
December 13, 2025
Summer 1996 shocked the world when the biggest pop star of the year tragically died at a theme park in the UK. Mystery has surrounded the actual events until, almost twenty years later, a podcast delves back into the mystery.
Author Laura Pearson is one of those writers who I know is going to deliver something special, something different. What Happened That Summer certainly fits that description. The novel is a little different from the author's more recent novels, featuring a mystery rather than a mystical element.
I loved the style, told as a transcript for a podcast. Although the chapters are long, the fact that it is a transcript makes it easy to put down mid-chapter. However, once you start reading, you are completely engrossed by the storyline and unlikely to want to stop.
Podcaster Danny interviews lots of people involved with the events leading to the death of teen pop star AJ Silver. The main characters are the Hunter family, who own the theme park, and the Campbells, AJ's family. It is interesting getting so many different perspectives, particularly when they contradict each other. It is also obvious that, even twenty years later, some people haven't been entirely honest and open.
This is primarily a romance. You can feel the euphoria of Penelope 'Pea' Hunter and Zak Campbell as their young love blossoms. The setting of early summer in a world without smartphones and emails adds to the heady mix. However, things are not without their complications; jealousy isn't far away. The couple also has to contend with AJ being around. AJ is not a likeable character, he displays all the traits you would expect from a diva. There are sympathetic moments, where you realise that he's had to grow up under the glare of spotlights, constantly in the media's attention, when at heart he's still a child, a child who no one is willing to say no to.
As the narrative weaves its way through the build-up to the arrival of AJ and his entourage, his time at the theme park, and then the accident, I found myself looking for subtle clues, frantically turning the pages, desperate to know what was going to happen. The repercussions have a seismic effect on everyone, with the podcast relating the way in which lives were changed forever. I'd grown to care for the characters I'd read about and was upset by the way some of their lives had been impacted. There's also a mystique hanging over everything, and a bombshell revelation that makes you sit up and question what you've read. The conclusion puts to rest some of the uncertainty that has surrounded AJ Silver's death for twenty years, but still leaves the reader needing to know more.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on:-
Twitter; @Debbie_Hart_UK
Instagram; @reading_for_leisure_blog
Author Laura Pearson is one of those writers who I know is going to deliver something special, something different. What Happened That Summer certainly fits that description. The novel is a little different from the author's more recent novels, featuring a mystery rather than a mystical element.
I loved the style, told as a transcript for a podcast. Although the chapters are long, the fact that it is a transcript makes it easy to put down mid-chapter. However, once you start reading, you are completely engrossed by the storyline and unlikely to want to stop.
Podcaster Danny interviews lots of people involved with the events leading to the death of teen pop star AJ Silver. The main characters are the Hunter family, who own the theme park, and the Campbells, AJ's family. It is interesting getting so many different perspectives, particularly when they contradict each other. It is also obvious that, even twenty years later, some people haven't been entirely honest and open.
This is primarily a romance. You can feel the euphoria of Penelope 'Pea' Hunter and Zak Campbell as their young love blossoms. The setting of early summer in a world without smartphones and emails adds to the heady mix. However, things are not without their complications; jealousy isn't far away. The couple also has to contend with AJ being around. AJ is not a likeable character, he displays all the traits you would expect from a diva. There are sympathetic moments, where you realise that he's had to grow up under the glare of spotlights, constantly in the media's attention, when at heart he's still a child, a child who no one is willing to say no to.
As the narrative weaves its way through the build-up to the arrival of AJ and his entourage, his time at the theme park, and then the accident, I found myself looking for subtle clues, frantically turning the pages, desperate to know what was going to happen. The repercussions have a seismic effect on everyone, with the podcast relating the way in which lives were changed forever. I'd grown to care for the characters I'd read about and was upset by the way some of their lives had been impacted. There's also a mystique hanging over everything, and a bombshell revelation that makes you sit up and question what you've read. The conclusion puts to rest some of the uncertainty that has surrounded AJ Silver's death for twenty years, but still leaves the reader needing to know more.
If you enjoyed my review please check out my book blog, Reading For Leisure
https://readingforleisure.blogspot.com/
or follow me on:-
Twitter; @Debbie_Hart_UK
Instagram; @reading_for_leisure_blog
December 8, 2025
4,5/5
My sincere thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and of course Laura Pearson for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As of now, I'm Laura Pearson's fan, looking forward to read her other works. I absolutely loved „What Happened That Summer” and connected deeply with all of the protagonists, especially Zak and Pea.
In a nuthshell, there's this performer, AJ Silver, a teenage sensation of the 90s, a number one star. And one day he decides he wants an inclusive stay in a theme park, just him and his crew for a few weeks. His wish comes true with Wildwood, managed by the Hunter family, a business with a lot of history but struggling financially, so not in the position to turn off a hefty sum of money. AJ's visit though turns into tragedy as he dies, just 17 years old, on one of the park's railways.
Fast forward almost thirty years and now enter Danny, with his brand new podcast revisiting the scene of „That Summer” with all of the main players. The book is structured as a series of interviews (think „Daisy Jones and The Six”) Danny is conducting for every episode of his podcast.
There are no villains and no heroes here. The emotions are painfully raw and very human. Sometimes people remember the same thing differently and you've got to wonder – is a question of memory, shame, or maybe self-preservation? I observed with delight the romance between Zac and Pea – and it means a lot from me, as I generally cannot stand romance in books. Is a perfect mix of young naïveté, exploring boundaries, discovering the ups and downs of true, but also complicated love, and slowly growing into maturity. Beautiful.
It's so sad, but also meaningful, that one small, simple decision – sometimes made with good intentions, sometimes out of spite and regret, may have the ultimate power to destroy someone's life or reroute it completely. Every person here has a story, and each one is worth listening to. These people are not artificial creations, they are real.
Plus the 90s, my personal youth, so there's also an element of nostalgia here. Overall, a sweet gem and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
My sincere thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and of course Laura Pearson for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
As of now, I'm Laura Pearson's fan, looking forward to read her other works. I absolutely loved „What Happened That Summer” and connected deeply with all of the protagonists, especially Zak and Pea.
In a nuthshell, there's this performer, AJ Silver, a teenage sensation of the 90s, a number one star. And one day he decides he wants an inclusive stay in a theme park, just him and his crew for a few weeks. His wish comes true with Wildwood, managed by the Hunter family, a business with a lot of history but struggling financially, so not in the position to turn off a hefty sum of money. AJ's visit though turns into tragedy as he dies, just 17 years old, on one of the park's railways.
Fast forward almost thirty years and now enter Danny, with his brand new podcast revisiting the scene of „That Summer” with all of the main players. The book is structured as a series of interviews (think „Daisy Jones and The Six”) Danny is conducting for every episode of his podcast.
There are no villains and no heroes here. The emotions are painfully raw and very human. Sometimes people remember the same thing differently and you've got to wonder – is a question of memory, shame, or maybe self-preservation? I observed with delight the romance between Zac and Pea – and it means a lot from me, as I generally cannot stand romance in books. Is a perfect mix of young naïveté, exploring boundaries, discovering the ups and downs of true, but also complicated love, and slowly growing into maturity. Beautiful.
It's so sad, but also meaningful, that one small, simple decision – sometimes made with good intentions, sometimes out of spite and regret, may have the ultimate power to destroy someone's life or reroute it completely. Every person here has a story, and each one is worth listening to. These people are not artificial creations, they are real.
Plus the 90s, my personal youth, so there's also an element of nostalgia here. Overall, a sweet gem and I wholeheartedly recommend it.
December 5, 2025
I know that anything written by Laura Pearson will be brilliant and this is no exception. It’s very different to her previous books but just as fabulous!
20 years ago, young American pop star, AJ Silver, died on a rollercoaster at Wildworld, a small family owned amusement park in the UK.
The story is told as a podcast; eight chapters, eight episodes, and it drew me in immediately, in fact, I devoured it in one sitting.
Hearing from almost everybody who was involved the day that AJ died and in the run-up to the accident, reminded me of a line from one of my favourite musicals, “everyone remembers it how they need to”. Because with any event, people will always have their own version to tell; some will see it differently to others and some will alter their perception in their own mind to suit themselves, especially if they harbour some guilt about what happened.
The impact of AJ‘s death was far reaching and it was gripping and emotional to read about the devastating implications for his own family and for the family that owned Wildworld, with the knock on effects lasting for many many years and in ways I never would have imagined, yet it was completely believable and relatable - the writing is off the scale brilliant and totally immersive.
The characters were incredibly well developed, which I imagine wasn’t easy to do within the confines of a podcast, but it worked so well and I found myself just as addicted to the podcast as all of the other listeners. So what really happened that day? Was it an accident, or was there more at play? I’m so glad that I didn’t have to wait a week in between episodes to find out!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Laura Pearson and Boldwood for an ARC of this book.
20 years ago, young American pop star, AJ Silver, died on a rollercoaster at Wildworld, a small family owned amusement park in the UK.
The story is told as a podcast; eight chapters, eight episodes, and it drew me in immediately, in fact, I devoured it in one sitting.
Hearing from almost everybody who was involved the day that AJ died and in the run-up to the accident, reminded me of a line from one of my favourite musicals, “everyone remembers it how they need to”. Because with any event, people will always have their own version to tell; some will see it differently to others and some will alter their perception in their own mind to suit themselves, especially if they harbour some guilt about what happened.
The impact of AJ‘s death was far reaching and it was gripping and emotional to read about the devastating implications for his own family and for the family that owned Wildworld, with the knock on effects lasting for many many years and in ways I never would have imagined, yet it was completely believable and relatable - the writing is off the scale brilliant and totally immersive.
The characters were incredibly well developed, which I imagine wasn’t easy to do within the confines of a podcast, but it worked so well and I found myself just as addicted to the podcast as all of the other listeners. So what really happened that day? Was it an accident, or was there more at play? I’m so glad that I didn’t have to wait a week in between episodes to find out!
5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Laura Pearson and Boldwood for an ARC of this book.
November 29, 2025
❤️ Blurb -
You think you know what happened that day… But what if you’re wrong?
Everyone remembers where they were when they heard that AJ Silver had died. In summer 1996, there was no avoiding the story that America's biggest teen pop sensation had plunged to his death on a rollercoaster at a family-run amusement park in rural England.
Now, 27 years have passed, and – even if you’re too young to remember the event – you’ve probably heard AJ Silver's songs topping the charts again. So what better time to take a forensic look at what happened that summer?
I’ve spent hundreds of hours interviewing everyone who was there that fateful day: workers, friends, family… the people who gained from his death, and the people who lost everything.
But you’re going to want to pay attention. Because I’ve found out a secret. One you’re all going to want to know… Perhaps it wasn’t such an accident after all?
💜 Review -
Having not read anything by the author before, I was drawn in by the blurb and I knew that I had to give it a read. The novel was only 8 chapters, but they were long, which I found a bit overwhelming. But they were set out like a pod cast interview, which made for an interesting read. I found the story easy to follow and had good pacing with a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💙 Release date -3rd January.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author Laura Pearson for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
You think you know what happened that day… But what if you’re wrong?
Everyone remembers where they were when they heard that AJ Silver had died. In summer 1996, there was no avoiding the story that America's biggest teen pop sensation had plunged to his death on a rollercoaster at a family-run amusement park in rural England.
Now, 27 years have passed, and – even if you’re too young to remember the event – you’ve probably heard AJ Silver's songs topping the charts again. So what better time to take a forensic look at what happened that summer?
I’ve spent hundreds of hours interviewing everyone who was there that fateful day: workers, friends, family… the people who gained from his death, and the people who lost everything.
But you’re going to want to pay attention. Because I’ve found out a secret. One you’re all going to want to know… Perhaps it wasn’t such an accident after all?
💜 Review -
Having not read anything by the author before, I was drawn in by the blurb and I knew that I had to give it a read. The novel was only 8 chapters, but they were long, which I found a bit overwhelming. But they were set out like a pod cast interview, which made for an interesting read. I found the story easy to follow and had good pacing with a great cast of characters. I highly recommend it and I look forward to reading more by the author.
💙 Release date -3rd January.
💝 Thank you to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author Laura Pearson for my arc ebook copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 1, 2025
Laura Pearson’s latest novel is a haunting meditation on the fragility of truth and the way stories linger long after the headlines fade.
In the summer of 1996, AJ Silver—the world’s brightest teen pop star—plunged to his death from a rollercoaster in a quiet English amusement park. It was the kind of moment that defined an era, etched into collective memory. But Pearson asks us to look closer: what if the story everyone remembers isn’t the whole truth?
Through a tapestry of interviews, recollections, and secrets unearthed decades later, Pearson crafts a narrative that is both forensic and deeply human. The novel balances the intrigue of a mystery with the tenderness of character study, exploring grief, identity, and the way fame distorts reality. Her prose is elegant yet piercing, inviting readers to question not only what happened that day, but how memory itself can be shaped by desire, loss, and silence.
This is not a thriller in the conventional sense—it is quieter, more reflective, and all the more powerful for it. Pearson’s gift lies in her ability to entwine suspense with emotional resonance, leaving the reader both unsettled and moved.
A story of echoes, secrets, and the weight of nostalgia, What Happened That Summer lingers like a song you can’t forget—haunting, beautiful, and impossible to put down.
With thanks to Laura Pearson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
In the summer of 1996, AJ Silver—the world’s brightest teen pop star—plunged to his death from a rollercoaster in a quiet English amusement park. It was the kind of moment that defined an era, etched into collective memory. But Pearson asks us to look closer: what if the story everyone remembers isn’t the whole truth?
Through a tapestry of interviews, recollections, and secrets unearthed decades later, Pearson crafts a narrative that is both forensic and deeply human. The novel balances the intrigue of a mystery with the tenderness of character study, exploring grief, identity, and the way fame distorts reality. Her prose is elegant yet piercing, inviting readers to question not only what happened that day, but how memory itself can be shaped by desire, loss, and silence.
This is not a thriller in the conventional sense—it is quieter, more reflective, and all the more powerful for it. Pearson’s gift lies in her ability to entwine suspense with emotional resonance, leaving the reader both unsettled and moved.
A story of echoes, secrets, and the weight of nostalgia, What Happened That Summer lingers like a song you can’t forget—haunting, beautiful, and impossible to put down.
With thanks to Laura Pearson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What Happened That Summer is an interesting and well-executed experiment in form, written entirely in a podcast-style format. Pearson’s concept is strong and timely, and while the structure itself isn’t new, it’s used thoughtfully here and suits the story being told.
The writing is solid and engaging on a technical level, and I appreciated the way the narrative unfolds through interviews, transcripts, and reflections, gradually revealing layers of the past. That said, while I admired the format and premise, I struggled to emotionally connect with the characters. By around the halfway point, I realized I wasn’t fully invested in their personal outcomes, which made the story harder for me to stay engaged with as a reading experience.
I do think this book would shine even more as an audiobook—or even as a fully produced podcast-style audio drama—where voice, pacing, and performance could add immediacy and emotional pull. In audio form, I suspect I would have flown through it.
Although this one wasn’t a personal favorite for me, I continue to enjoy Laura Pearson’s work overall. Her ideas are consistently thoughtful, her writing is reliable, and I appreciate her willingness to experiment with narrative form. Readers who enjoy podcast-style storytelling and true-crime-inspired fiction will likely find a lot to admire here.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books y his ARC. This is my honest review .
The writing is solid and engaging on a technical level, and I appreciated the way the narrative unfolds through interviews, transcripts, and reflections, gradually revealing layers of the past. That said, while I admired the format and premise, I struggled to emotionally connect with the characters. By around the halfway point, I realized I wasn’t fully invested in their personal outcomes, which made the story harder for me to stay engaged with as a reading experience.
I do think this book would shine even more as an audiobook—or even as a fully produced podcast-style audio drama—where voice, pacing, and performance could add immediacy and emotional pull. In audio form, I suspect I would have flown through it.
Although this one wasn’t a personal favorite for me, I continue to enjoy Laura Pearson’s work overall. Her ideas are consistently thoughtful, her writing is reliable, and I appreciate her willingness to experiment with narrative form. Readers who enjoy podcast-style storytelling and true-crime-inspired fiction will likely find a lot to admire here.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books y his ARC. This is my honest review .
December 2, 2025
This book was so amazing I couldn’t put it down!! The story of the short life of AJ Silver was told as a podcast and each week the host added another dimension to his road to stardom. We met his family, his management team and the fans who adored him. Along the way AJ, who always got what he wanted, decided to spend his free time while on tour in the UK, at an amusement park outside of London. His older brother Zak, and his manager Maggie went ahead to check the place out, and this visit would change Zak’s life forever. The family who owned the park were barely hanging on and the opportunity to host a famous American pop star, and receive a huge pay out, was just too good to be true, and unfortunately, that turned out to be the case.
Drama, heartbreak and strained relationships were at the core of the podcast as the host interviewed Zak, Pea and her brother Sebastian, the children of the owners, and Pea’s best friend Alex, who had his own story to tell. Life in the UK is very different than in America, but music is a universal language that always brings people together. Pea and Zak listened to their favorite songs while strolling around the park and AJ’s haunting lyrics from one of his popular hits gave all involved an idea of what was really going on in his head. My mind was blown away by the surprising ending but then again, they say that fame can make you do crazy things! “What Happened That Summer” is the kind of book that will stay with you forever; one you will read over and over again, so you could pour over every detail just one more time!
Drama, heartbreak and strained relationships were at the core of the podcast as the host interviewed Zak, Pea and her brother Sebastian, the children of the owners, and Pea’s best friend Alex, who had his own story to tell. Life in the UK is very different than in America, but music is a universal language that always brings people together. Pea and Zak listened to their favorite songs while strolling around the park and AJ’s haunting lyrics from one of his popular hits gave all involved an idea of what was really going on in his head. My mind was blown away by the surprising ending but then again, they say that fame can make you do crazy things! “What Happened That Summer” is the kind of book that will stay with you forever; one you will read over and over again, so you could pour over every detail just one more time!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a high to end my reading year on!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC which I received in exchange for an honest review.
This book came on my radar after recommendation from @bexbookaholic on Instagram. The format wasn't my usual go to style. Written in the style of a podcast. Would it work? Would it flow right and allow me to get immersed? The answers are a resounding "yes" and "yes". I was hooked.
Initially I thought this was a young adult book, which I have found to lack depth, realism and are often idealistic. However the strong characters, depths of emotion, and compelling storylines had me gripped and made me quickly realise that this wasn't a YA book. Yes, the key characters were teenagers at the time the main event took place, but there is so much more there.
Spread across multiple timelines, you see how events shaped the characters lives over the proceeding years; where they ended up and with whom.
I wasn't expecting the ending. I guessed Sebastian was somehow involved but not to the extent that he was.
A gripping read. Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC which I received in exchange for an honest review.
This book came on my radar after recommendation from @bexbookaholic on Instagram. The format wasn't my usual go to style. Written in the style of a podcast. Would it work? Would it flow right and allow me to get immersed? The answers are a resounding "yes" and "yes". I was hooked.
Initially I thought this was a young adult book, which I have found to lack depth, realism and are often idealistic. However the strong characters, depths of emotion, and compelling storylines had me gripped and made me quickly realise that this wasn't a YA book. Yes, the key characters were teenagers at the time the main event took place, but there is so much more there.
Spread across multiple timelines, you see how events shaped the characters lives over the proceeding years; where they ended up and with whom.
I wasn't expecting the ending. I guessed Sebastian was somehow involved but not to the extent that he was.
A gripping read. Highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 24, 2025
A book with only 8 chapters that is not a novella was daunting as long chapters are not the most enjoyable ones! However this book is in podcast interview format and each chapter represents a podcast episode. This was the first time I’ve actually read a book in this format. Previously I have specifically had the audiobook versions of books to get the podcast experience and I’m pleased to say I was not disappointed in the reading of this book.
The story, set in a theme park, with a world renowned pop star shutting it down for 6 weeks whilst he runs amok inside, may seem be a bit far fetched, but it follows a storyline that makes the scenario realistic and believable.
Laura Pearson gives us the opportunity to get to know each character intellectually and emotionally. They were all fully formed characters with strong opinions, beliefs and experiences that rang true to the person they were bought in to be.
A great read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the arc for review.
The story, set in a theme park, with a world renowned pop star shutting it down for 6 weeks whilst he runs amok inside, may seem be a bit far fetched, but it follows a storyline that makes the scenario realistic and believable.
Laura Pearson gives us the opportunity to get to know each character intellectually and emotionally. They were all fully formed characters with strong opinions, beliefs and experiences that rang true to the person they were bought in to be.
A great read!
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the arc for review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an excellent book and one which I read very quickly as I was engrossed in the story and couldn’t wait to see what would happen. This is a different style of writing for this author, but one that I really enjoyed and was fully invested in the plot, characters and what would happen.
Set in two very different worlds, the pop star lifestyle in the USA and a family run theme park just making ends meet in the UK. As the 2 world collide the readers know from the outset that the death of a young an upcoming talent occurred at the theme park and the book is the story of why, how and who was involved.
It is a lovely read, some touching young love moments together with some harsh realities of finding out about becoming an adult and making choices. The author shows good knowledge of what would work in a YA genre which is also very readable for adults.
Great book and one that I will definitely be recommending.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Set in two very different worlds, the pop star lifestyle in the USA and a family run theme park just making ends meet in the UK. As the 2 world collide the readers know from the outset that the death of a young an upcoming talent occurred at the theme park and the book is the story of why, how and who was involved.
It is a lovely read, some touching young love moments together with some harsh realities of finding out about becoming an adult and making choices. The author shows good knowledge of what would work in a YA genre which is also very readable for adults.
Great book and one that I will definitely be recommending.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing this book, with my honest review below.
I’m a big fan of finding unique ways to tell a story, and for What Happened That Summer it works so perfectly to tell it through a podcast format, that’s exactly what I’d expect if a young pop star met his end on a rollercoaster and there was still plenty of intrigue around what happened.
What I didn’t expect was how Laura Pearson was able to really explore AJ Silver (our pop star) so well while also taking us through the years from prior to 1996 to today with his family, the amusement park owners and their family, and some supporting characters along the way. We get to experience overbearing and dysfunctional families, young love, a mystery, plus a massive twist. This is totally engrossing and the execution is so perfectly done that I’m blown away by how effortless it was to get lost in a story that feels true.
I’m a big fan of finding unique ways to tell a story, and for What Happened That Summer it works so perfectly to tell it through a podcast format, that’s exactly what I’d expect if a young pop star met his end on a rollercoaster and there was still plenty of intrigue around what happened.
What I didn’t expect was how Laura Pearson was able to really explore AJ Silver (our pop star) so well while also taking us through the years from prior to 1996 to today with his family, the amusement park owners and their family, and some supporting characters along the way. We get to experience overbearing and dysfunctional families, young love, a mystery, plus a massive twist. This is totally engrossing and the execution is so perfectly done that I’m blown away by how effortless it was to get lost in a story that feels true.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to @laurapauthor @the.shelfcareclub and @lovebookstours for the gifted copy of this book to read and review.
It’s like listening to your favorite podcast about the accidental death of a celebrity. Danny, the podcast host, has interviews of every person surrounding the death of pop sensation AJ Smith. You hear the story from every angle. It’s 27 years after his death and you are learning what happened that fateful day. You also find out what everyone is doing today. Then, just when you think you know what happened back in 1996, you question everything.
This is a great read. The chapters are long (only 8 in the whole book), but they represent an episode each of the podcast. The book is a captivating read, switching pov during the podcast. I found myself wanting to read more and more and more to find out what happened to AJ Smith.
It’s like listening to your favorite podcast about the accidental death of a celebrity. Danny, the podcast host, has interviews of every person surrounding the death of pop sensation AJ Smith. You hear the story from every angle. It’s 27 years after his death and you are learning what happened that fateful day. You also find out what everyone is doing today. Then, just when you think you know what happened back in 1996, you question everything.
This is a great read. The chapters are long (only 8 in the whole book), but they represent an episode each of the podcast. The book is a captivating read, switching pov during the podcast. I found myself wanting to read more and more and more to find out what happened to AJ Smith.
November 21, 2025
Review of ‘What Happened That Summer’ by Laura Pearson, due to be published on 3 January 2026 by Boldwood Books.
A story told in 8 chapters, in the style of a podcast. Host, Danny Drake, a 1990s obsessive, revisits the death of pop megastar, A J Silver who was killed on a rollercoaster in 1996.
The podcast has a host of characters who were involved with the tragedy - the theme park owners and their family, the family and entourage of the pop star.
What can I say, other than…..Wow!
As a fan of Laura, this is unlike any other book she has written, and completely blew me away. I devoured every page, was completely invested in the characters and was stunned by the ending.
If you read one book next year - make it this one - you won’t regret it!
A story told in 8 chapters, in the style of a podcast. Host, Danny Drake, a 1990s obsessive, revisits the death of pop megastar, A J Silver who was killed on a rollercoaster in 1996.
The podcast has a host of characters who were involved with the tragedy - the theme park owners and their family, the family and entourage of the pop star.
What can I say, other than…..Wow!
As a fan of Laura, this is unlike any other book she has written, and completely blew me away. I devoured every page, was completely invested in the characters and was stunned by the ending.
If you read one book next year - make it this one - you won’t regret it!
December 7, 2025
Nearly 3 decades have passed since the tragic death of music sensation AJ Silver, and while everyone thinks they know what happened that long ago summer they may not be entirely justified in that belief.
A new podcast looking into the case seems on the brink of unearthing previously unknown information. And, at the very least, it has captured the public imagination and become the subject of water cooler conversations across the land.
This is an engaging story and the podcast format works well. It easily earns 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
A new podcast looking into the case seems on the brink of unearthing previously unknown information. And, at the very least, it has captured the public imagination and become the subject of water cooler conversations across the land.
This is an engaging story and the podcast format works well. It easily earns 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
December 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for granting me ARC access to What Happened That Summer.
I love this format of book, based around a podcast script which examines a cold case from 30 years previously.
This is definitely my favourite book of the year BY A MILE!!! One of those I wish I could go back and read again for the first time. If I didn’t have to go to work I would not have put it down. And the twist at the end!!! Didn’t see it coming at all.
I know I have used way too many exclamation marks in this review but I can’t stop!! An absolute triumph of a novel in every way. 5 stars plus a cherry on top! 🍒
I love this format of book, based around a podcast script which examines a cold case from 30 years previously.
This is definitely my favourite book of the year BY A MILE!!! One of those I wish I could go back and read again for the first time. If I didn’t have to go to work I would not have put it down. And the twist at the end!!! Didn’t see it coming at all.
I know I have used way too many exclamation marks in this review but I can’t stop!! An absolute triumph of a novel in every way. 5 stars plus a cherry on top! 🍒
December 22, 2025
What Happened that Summer by Laura Pearson is the story of what exactly happened to 1990s pop star AJ Silver.
Told in the form of an investigative podcast, this novel explores the death of teen pop star AJ Silver, who rented out a theme park in England as a home base for his tour, which came to an end due to his untimely death on one of the theme park rides.
Almost 30 years later, people still wonder what exactly went wrong. Was it a freak accident? Negligence? Or something darker and more sinister?
I truly enjoyed this book. The story was captivating, the characters were well written, and I found the podcast format to be unique and creative. But, of course, the best part was trying to solve the mystery of What Happened that Summer.
Told in the form of an investigative podcast, this novel explores the death of teen pop star AJ Silver, who rented out a theme park in England as a home base for his tour, which came to an end due to his untimely death on one of the theme park rides.
Almost 30 years later, people still wonder what exactly went wrong. Was it a freak accident? Negligence? Or something darker and more sinister?
I truly enjoyed this book. The story was captivating, the characters were well written, and I found the podcast format to be unique and creative. But, of course, the best part was trying to solve the mystery of What Happened that Summer.
November 25, 2025
This is a neat story that is told in the form of a podcast. It is so different and well done.
It's a mystery that is filled with suspense as we try to learn of a sudden tragedy at a theme park.
It is told through 8 chapters that lead you to this disaster all taking place over a short period of time.
This is a different type of book that is written by Laura Pearson, yet none the less, it is a quick, intense read that I am quite sure everyone will enjoy!
Thank you to @NetGalley and to @Boldwood for this ARC and allowing me to provide my own review.
It's a mystery that is filled with suspense as we try to learn of a sudden tragedy at a theme park.
It is told through 8 chapters that lead you to this disaster all taking place over a short period of time.
This is a different type of book that is written by Laura Pearson, yet none the less, it is a quick, intense read that I am quite sure everyone will enjoy!
Thank you to @NetGalley and to @Boldwood for this ARC and allowing me to provide my own review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 stars
What Happened That Summer by Laura Pearson is an engaging, easy-to-read mystery with a strong sense of nostalgia. Told in a podcast-style format through interviews, it revisits the shocking 1996 death of teen pop star AJ Silver and gradually uncovers long-buried secrets from the people closest to the event.
I’m a big fan of Pearson’s writing, and while this novel feels a little different from her previous books stylistically, it works extremely well. The story thoughtfully explores how time, memory and fame can blur the truth.
What Happened That Summer by Laura Pearson is an engaging, easy-to-read mystery with a strong sense of nostalgia. Told in a podcast-style format through interviews, it revisits the shocking 1996 death of teen pop star AJ Silver and gradually uncovers long-buried secrets from the people closest to the event.
I’m a big fan of Pearson’s writing, and while this novel feels a little different from her previous books stylistically, it works extremely well. The story thoughtfully explores how time, memory and fame can blur the truth.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
2.75 rounded to 3 stars for me.
Everyone know that AJ Silver had died,but was it a accident or did someone wanted him dead?Through interviewing everyone who was there that day,they might find the truth.
It was a interesting mystery,about young love,family dynamics and tragedy.While I hoped to find out what happened to AJ,and enjoyed reading his brother love story,I found I didn't enjoy reading it in a podcast-style format.It was interesting,but this format was just not for me.
Thank you netgalley and publisher for arc,the review is honest and my own.
Everyone know that AJ Silver had died,but was it a accident or did someone wanted him dead?Through interviewing everyone who was there that day,they might find the truth.
It was a interesting mystery,about young love,family dynamics and tragedy.While I hoped to find out what happened to AJ,and enjoyed reading his brother love story,I found I didn't enjoy reading it in a podcast-style format.It was interesting,but this format was just not for me.
Thank you netgalley and publisher for arc,the review is honest and my own.
November 23, 2025
Loved this book and read it in one sitting! It's the story of the death of AJ Silver who died at a theme park back into 1990's. He was an incredibly famous pop star and known all over the world and his death was shocking as he was just 17
The story is told in just 8 chapters in the style of a podcast which is hosted by Danny Drake and he revisits the death of AJ, including interviews of all those involved. I could see this made into a film or TV series as it was all so believable
The story is told in just 8 chapters in the style of a podcast which is hosted by Danny Drake and he revisits the death of AJ, including interviews of all those involved. I could see this made into a film or TV series as it was all so believable
December 9, 2025
In the world of celebrity, anything is possible! Including making a private theme park your home for weeks while on tour. Told in podcast script format, we meet all the players from the summer when teen pop sensation AJ Silver dies in a rollercoaster incident. This format worked really well for this story and gave us the opportunity to hear multiple sides of the story at the same time. I was blindsided at the end!
December 26, 2025
In the summer of 1996, the world’s biggest teen pop star, AJ Silver, plunged to his death from a rollercoaster at a small amusement park in rural England. The tragedy shocked millions and became one of the most talked-about stories of the decade. Fast forward nearly three decades: AJ’s music is topping the charts again, and an investigator is digging into what really happened that day. Through interviews with friends, family, and those who stood to gain or lose from AJ’s death, a chilling truth begins to emerge. Was it really an accident?
I loved how the entire story unfolded through podcast episodes and character interviews. It felt fresh, relevant, and incredibly immersive, I genuinely felt like I was listening to a gripping true-crime podcast, this format will make an amazing audiobook. The long chapters might seem daunting, but because they’re written as transcripts, it’s easy to pause mid-chapter. That said, once you start, you won’t want to stop.
Getting to know the characters through their own words, and through the eyes of others, was fascinating. It really drives home the idea that the truth often lies somewhere between everyone’s version of events. Chatting with the cast decades later gave the story a satisfying full circle feel.
Themes like child stardom, fame, first love, sexuality, and family struggles (divorce, addiction) run throughout. While these are heavy topics, the YA undertone makes them accessible and easy to follow.
I loved how the entire story unfolded through podcast episodes and character interviews. It felt fresh, relevant, and incredibly immersive, I genuinely felt like I was listening to a gripping true-crime podcast, this format will make an amazing audiobook. The long chapters might seem daunting, but because they’re written as transcripts, it’s easy to pause mid-chapter. That said, once you start, you won’t want to stop.
Getting to know the characters through their own words, and through the eyes of others, was fascinating. It really drives home the idea that the truth often lies somewhere between everyone’s version of events. Chatting with the cast decades later gave the story a satisfying full circle feel.
Themes like child stardom, fame, first love, sexuality, and family struggles (divorce, addiction) run throughout. While these are heavy topics, the YA undertone makes them accessible and easy to follow.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Really disappointed to say that I just couldn't connect with this due to the chosen writing style. A whole book written as a podcast script with exceedingly long chapters, I found jarring and it felt like it needed something else to break that up.
Sadly that overtook the actual story for me and I struggled to get through it. Such a shame as I loved the author's last read but this couldn't be more different.
Sadly that overtook the actual story for me and I struggled to get through it. Such a shame as I loved the author's last read but this couldn't be more different.
November 24, 2025
I feel that this would be better as an audiobook as there are similar books out there that do work better in that format. I found the whole thing a bit slow and I figured out the ending part way through which meant that I didn’t get the shock factor that I think the author was going for. It was an alright book but now one I would rave about.
December 3, 2025
Wow, I have really enjoyed reading this book! I did not expect to like it this much tbh. The podcast format is a real page-turner and the plot is twisty enough for you to want to know more! I even think I’d read a second book based on Danny’s podcast if the author were ever to go there- as it was, again, really entertaining!
December 17, 2025
Told as the transcript of a podcast, the story takes us back to the summer of 1996 when American popstar, AJ Silver was killed at a theme park in England.
The podcast looks at the events leading up to AJ’s death, the day he died and the events after.
There is a mystery and a love story packed into the novel.
The format of the book and the fact it covers the events of nearly thirty years has a Taylor Jenkins Reid so will appeal to her fans as well as many others.
This is a fantastic read that I raced through. It’s easy to read and enjoyable. I was really routing for AJ’s brother Zac and love interest Pea and was as invested in that storyline as the death of AJ.
All of the characters are well rounded and had a part to play.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy.
The podcast looks at the events leading up to AJ’s death, the day he died and the events after.
There is a mystery and a love story packed into the novel.
The format of the book and the fact it covers the events of nearly thirty years has a Taylor Jenkins Reid so will appeal to her fans as well as many others.
This is a fantastic read that I raced through. It’s easy to read and enjoyable. I was really routing for AJ’s brother Zac and love interest Pea and was as invested in that storyline as the death of AJ.
All of the characters are well rounded and had a part to play.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have loved Laura's books since I read the Last List of Mabel Beaumont and this did not disappoint
It is very different to her other books but it os a stunning book told as a series of podcasts about the death of a teen idol.
It reminded me of stories like Daisy Jones and also the book the Ugly Truth but it doesn't imitate them in any way
A fabulous book in every way
It is very different to her other books but it os a stunning book told as a series of podcasts about the death of a teen idol.
It reminded me of stories like Daisy Jones and also the book the Ugly Truth but it doesn't imitate them in any way
A fabulous book in every way
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews