What do you think?
Rate this book
Lowcountry Summer #4
A Lowcountry Wedding
Wedding season has arrived in New York Times bestselling author Mary Alice Monroe’s fourth novel in the “distinct, complex, and endearing” (Charleston Magazine) Lowcountry Summer series, set against the romantic, charming Carolina lowcountry.Nothing could be more enchanting than a summer wedding—or two!—in storied Sullivan’s Island. A centuries-old plantation, an avenue of ancient oaks dripping moss, a sand dune at sunset… it’s all picture perfect, and half-sisters Dora, Carson, and Harper, and their grandmother Marietta “Mamaw” Muir couldn’t be more excited. Wedding dresses are picked, venues booked, and delectable cakes tasted. What could possibly go wrong? The answer, the Muir clan is soon to find out, is everything. Carson loves Blake, but struggles with giving up her independence. Harper questions if a prenuptial agreement will help or hurt the future of her marriage, and a newly unfettered Dora is uncertain whether she really wants to walk down the aisle again. Just when it seems things couldn’t get more complicated for the Muir sisters, a stranger arrives bearing a long-held family secret that has the potential to upset even the most carefully laid-out wedding plans. With the weddings mere weeks away, the invitations sent out, and the family in tumult, Mamaw and her Summer Girls discover the enduring and powerful bonds of family, and realize that, no matter how different each bride might be, she can still have her perfect wedding.
450 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 3, 2016
1288 people are currently reading
4542 people want to read
About the author
Mary Alice Monroe
71 books5,651 followersMary Alice Monroe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of 30 books, including her new novel, Where the Rivers Merge, the first book in a duology and her historical debut. The second book is titled The Rivers End. Release date has not been set yet.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
Monroe has also published children’s books, which complement the environmental themes she is known for in her adult novels. Monroe’s middle grade series, written with Angela May, The Islanders, debuted #2 on the New York Times Best Sellers List in 2021. The second book in the series, Search for Treasure, debuted #3 on the New York Times Best Sellers List. And the third book in the series, Shipwrecked, is available everywhere books are sold.
Nearly eight million copies of her books have been published worldwide.
Mary Alice has earned numerous accolades and awards including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame; South Carolina Center for the Book Award for Writing; the South Carolina Award for Literary Excellence; the SW Florida Author of Distinction Award; the RT Lifetime Achievement Award; the International Book Award for Green Fiction; the Henry Bergh Award for Children’s Fiction; and her novel A Lowcountry Christmas won the prestigious Southern Prize for Fiction.
Mary Alice is also the co-founder of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
The Beach House is a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie, starring Andie McDowell. Several of her novels are optioned for film.
Mary Alice has championed the fragility of the earth’s wild habitat. The coastal southern landscape in particular is a strong and important focus of many of her novels. For her writing, Monroe immerses herself in academic research, works with wildlife experts, and does hands-on volunteering with animals. She then uses the knowledge and experiences to craft captivating stories that identify important parallels between nature and human nature. Sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, monarch butterflies, shorebirds are among the species she has worked with and woven into her novels.
Mary Alice is also an active conservationist and serves on several boards including the South Carolina Aquarium board emeritus, the Pat Conroy Literary Center Honorary Board, and the Leatherback Trust, which she received the Leatherback Trust Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022. She is especially proud to be a state-certified volunteer with the Island Turtle Team for more than twenty years.
Mary Alice splits her time between her home on the South Carolina coast and her home in the North Carolina mountains. When she’s not writing a novel, she is with her family or busy working with wildlife somewhere in the world.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 592 reviews
March 24, 2016
This book was given to me by the author in exchange for my honest opinion. And here it is...
Although I've read all the books in the series in order, I feel this book could be a standalone as there was plenty of explanation bringing a new reader up to speed.
Opening a new book of MAM is, for me, like opening the door of a beloved summer bungalow after a long winter. The familiarity, the excitement, the memories. I love the Muirs, Sea Breeze, the lowcountry. The story was very well told, with the addition of a new family member and all the secrets and tears that go along with it. My only criticism, and it is a strictly personal thing for me...was the complete overuse of the annoying phrase du jour "baby bump". Ugh. I started my eye rolls after the 4th or 5th one, and kept right on going until my eyes hurt. I realize the importance of keeping things fresh and relevant, but that just got on my nerves. That aside, MAM has come up with another compelling story about a family that has weathered many storms, and stick together despite family conflict. The weddings were just the beginning of bigger things to come for the Muir sisters.
For me, the most poignant and heartbreaking part of this book was saying goodbye to Delphine. Although I'm sure she was on her way to bigger adventures as well.
Although I've read all the books in the series in order, I feel this book could be a standalone as there was plenty of explanation bringing a new reader up to speed.
Opening a new book of MAM is, for me, like opening the door of a beloved summer bungalow after a long winter. The familiarity, the excitement, the memories. I love the Muirs, Sea Breeze, the lowcountry. The story was very well told, with the addition of a new family member and all the secrets and tears that go along with it. My only criticism, and it is a strictly personal thing for me...was the complete overuse of the annoying phrase du jour "baby bump". Ugh. I started my eye rolls after the 4th or 5th one, and kept right on going until my eyes hurt. I realize the importance of keeping things fresh and relevant, but that just got on my nerves. That aside, MAM has come up with another compelling story about a family that has weathered many storms, and stick together despite family conflict. The weddings were just the beginning of bigger things to come for the Muir sisters.
For me, the most poignant and heartbreaking part of this book was saying goodbye to Delphine. Although I'm sure she was on her way to bigger adventures as well.
March 25, 2018
Master storyteller, Mary Alice Monroe’s highly anticipated fourth installment of Lowcountry Summer series, A LOWCOUNTRY WEDDING —is full of excitement, family, and romance.
Readers were sad to see the trilogy end; however, delighted to see this additional installment return following The Summer’s End. #3 . And let me say, it is explosive! What a stunning front cover, MAM's trademark style, and the nice media touch with the wedding giveaway promotion in Charleston. No place better in the world for a romantic wedding!
Brimming with Lowcountry Charleston charm, elegance, and history--of course, some added Emily Post proper tidbits, and social graces of the South, providing clear answers to a vast range of wedding and entertaining etiquette from one Southern grandmother, PLUS, a little British proper Debrett's rituals, social manners, and characteristics from the England wealthy grandmother —making for a nice twist for their take on today’s modern woman. (love the generational mix).
Mixed with emotions, wedding plans, stresses, dresses, locations, homes, identities, independence, love, some juicy secrets, budding romances, a wise voice from the past, a lovable dolphin we fell for, a hidden manuscript, and one extra very special secret (GQ minister) visitor, which will change all their lives—Heartwarming, full of entertainment and lots of laughs!
In THE SUMMER GIRLS (Lowcountry Summer #1) we met three-half sisters (Carson, Harper, and Dora), as they find their way back to one another with the help of their loving and aging grandmother, Mamaw and sidekick Lucille, the housekeeper.
The one link the deceased son/father Parker, an alcoholic whose actions still affect the lives of all today. Mamaw was about to sell the home and move into an assisted living, and she informs all the girls if they do not come home for the summer, she will cut them out of her will. She hopes she can talk them in to returning full time to the south and connect to their roots.
THE SUMMER WIND (Lowcountry Summer #2), we dig deeper into the emotional lives and challenges of the three grown half-sisters, from different walks of life, a grandmother, a wise housekeeper, and a charismatic dolphin who touches the lives of a troubled boy with autism, and his aunt.
THE SUMMERS END (Lowcountry Summer #3) brings a mixture of sadness and joy, tying up all loose ends, and reinvention. Lucille, Mamaw’s dear friend, has passed on, and now Mamaw is lost without her. She knows Lucille would not like her mourning, having brought the girls to the island to get to know one another and embrace their roots. She has more work to do.
Coming full circle, A LOWCOUNTRY WEDDING (Lowcountry Summer #4) Mamaw is living at Seabreeze on Sullivans' Island, SC and of course did not go to the assisted living facility, thanks to Harper. She has moved into the guest cottage. Now enters Emma Jean (Harper's grandmother) from England and she plans on moving in since their family estate has been sold. Lots of women!
The girls are here, finally and preparing for the upcoming wedding nuptials of Carson/Blake and Harper/Taylor. Dora (son Nate) is still dating (Delvin) with a lot of pressure of marriage and getting into her real estate career; however, needs some time after her horrible divorce from Cal.
One a beach seaside wedding at Wild Dunes and the other an old plantation style historic wedding at Legare Waring House. (both venues are fabulous) Neither girl is in the planning and leaving most of the details to the grandmothers, who love all the social graces and planning. The comfort of family and friends. Sharing of stories--better or worse. Dora is also hovering like a mother hen, and Atticus is a nice addition to the story.
In the midst of the planning, a deeper story, family ties and bonds- Atticus, the black good looking minister who will perform the ceremonies. A secret between him and Mamaw until after the wedding, unless they are discovered. From dresses, venues, pre-nuptial agreements, careers, drama, pregnancy, conflicts, loves, fears, laughs, and a revisit from the Delphine lovable dolphin.
If you have ever lived or worked in the Lowcountry (it is mesmerizing) you know how special the culture, art, cuisine, nature, rich in history and its southern roots. Having worked with hotels in Charleston and the CVB, there is nothing like it. The atmosphere changes the minute you step in the historic downtown. I love Charleston!
With all Mary Alice Monroe’s stories, she is a master at skillfully weaving into her narrative, significant environmental topics, blending them into the lives of her flawed characters---as they mature, learn, and find healing and acceptance from life’s lessons and experiences. The real meaning of family and friends. One of my all-time favorite Southern authors for many years.
Each book is unique with richly developed characters, connected to nature, ones you will not soon forget, even after the story ends. If you have not read Mary Alice Monroe, you are missing a rare treat. Each can be read as a standalone; however, recommend reading them all, to appreciate fully.
For fans of Southern authors: Patti Callahan Henry, Dorothea Benton Frank, Mary Kay Andrews, Wendy Wax, and Karen White. All my favorites!
Highly recommend the audiobook, narrated by the author, Mary Alice Monroe. Her voice was perfect for her own creation, with a winning performance! Listen Here
A Lowcountry Wedding Contest! Win a FREE dream wedding in Charleston, SC! Winner announced June 2016. LEARN MORE. Love her new website!
JDCMustReadBooks
Readers were sad to see the trilogy end; however, delighted to see this additional installment return following The Summer’s End. #3 . And let me say, it is explosive! What a stunning front cover, MAM's trademark style, and the nice media touch with the wedding giveaway promotion in Charleston. No place better in the world for a romantic wedding!
Brimming with Lowcountry Charleston charm, elegance, and history--of course, some added Emily Post proper tidbits, and social graces of the South, providing clear answers to a vast range of wedding and entertaining etiquette from one Southern grandmother, PLUS, a little British proper Debrett's rituals, social manners, and characteristics from the England wealthy grandmother —making for a nice twist for their take on today’s modern woman. (love the generational mix).
Mixed with emotions, wedding plans, stresses, dresses, locations, homes, identities, independence, love, some juicy secrets, budding romances, a wise voice from the past, a lovable dolphin we fell for, a hidden manuscript, and one extra very special secret (GQ minister) visitor, which will change all their lives—Heartwarming, full of entertainment and lots of laughs!
In THE SUMMER GIRLS (Lowcountry Summer #1) we met three-half sisters (Carson, Harper, and Dora), as they find their way back to one another with the help of their loving and aging grandmother, Mamaw and sidekick Lucille, the housekeeper.
The one link the deceased son/father Parker, an alcoholic whose actions still affect the lives of all today. Mamaw was about to sell the home and move into an assisted living, and she informs all the girls if they do not come home for the summer, she will cut them out of her will. She hopes she can talk them in to returning full time to the south and connect to their roots.
THE SUMMER WIND (Lowcountry Summer #2), we dig deeper into the emotional lives and challenges of the three grown half-sisters, from different walks of life, a grandmother, a wise housekeeper, and a charismatic dolphin who touches the lives of a troubled boy with autism, and his aunt.
THE SUMMERS END (Lowcountry Summer #3) brings a mixture of sadness and joy, tying up all loose ends, and reinvention. Lucille, Mamaw’s dear friend, has passed on, and now Mamaw is lost without her. She knows Lucille would not like her mourning, having brought the girls to the island to get to know one another and embrace their roots. She has more work to do.
Coming full circle, A LOWCOUNTRY WEDDING (Lowcountry Summer #4) Mamaw is living at Seabreeze on Sullivans' Island, SC and of course did not go to the assisted living facility, thanks to Harper. She has moved into the guest cottage. Now enters Emma Jean (Harper's grandmother) from England and she plans on moving in since their family estate has been sold. Lots of women!
The girls are here, finally and preparing for the upcoming wedding nuptials of Carson/Blake and Harper/Taylor. Dora (son Nate) is still dating (Delvin) with a lot of pressure of marriage and getting into her real estate career; however, needs some time after her horrible divorce from Cal.
One a beach seaside wedding at Wild Dunes and the other an old plantation style historic wedding at Legare Waring House. (both venues are fabulous) Neither girl is in the planning and leaving most of the details to the grandmothers, who love all the social graces and planning. The comfort of family and friends. Sharing of stories--better or worse. Dora is also hovering like a mother hen, and Atticus is a nice addition to the story.
In the midst of the planning, a deeper story, family ties and bonds- Atticus, the black good looking minister who will perform the ceremonies. A secret between him and Mamaw until after the wedding, unless they are discovered. From dresses, venues, pre-nuptial agreements, careers, drama, pregnancy, conflicts, loves, fears, laughs, and a revisit from the Delphine lovable dolphin.
If you have ever lived or worked in the Lowcountry (it is mesmerizing) you know how special the culture, art, cuisine, nature, rich in history and its southern roots. Having worked with hotels in Charleston and the CVB, there is nothing like it. The atmosphere changes the minute you step in the historic downtown. I love Charleston!
With all Mary Alice Monroe’s stories, she is a master at skillfully weaving into her narrative, significant environmental topics, blending them into the lives of her flawed characters---as they mature, learn, and find healing and acceptance from life’s lessons and experiences. The real meaning of family and friends. One of my all-time favorite Southern authors for many years.
Each book is unique with richly developed characters, connected to nature, ones you will not soon forget, even after the story ends. If you have not read Mary Alice Monroe, you are missing a rare treat. Each can be read as a standalone; however, recommend reading them all, to appreciate fully.
For fans of Southern authors: Patti Callahan Henry, Dorothea Benton Frank, Mary Kay Andrews, Wendy Wax, and Karen White. All my favorites!
Highly recommend the audiobook, narrated by the author, Mary Alice Monroe. Her voice was perfect for her own creation, with a winning performance! Listen Here
A Lowcountry Wedding Contest! Win a FREE dream wedding in Charleston, SC! Winner announced June 2016. LEARN MORE. Love her new website!
JDCMustReadBooks
May 16, 2016
I guess I'm different than most everyone else, but this book got on my nerves! The girls were SO whiney and wishy-washy. I get the fact that because of their dad they were pretty mixed up regarding men, but I felt they were selfish--sleeping with the guys and promising marriage then going back and forth as to whether or not they were ready to get married. Atticus was an interesting character, but I don't hear Southern Baptist preachers cursing. I could hardly wait to just finish this book and start something else.
April 18, 2016
A Lowcountry Wedding by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2016 Gallery Books Publication. I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher as an XOXpert, the official street team of XOXO After Dark. (Digital copy provided by Edelweiss)
I have been eagerly anticipating this return to Sea Breeze, and reconnecting with the Muir’s.
Finally, Harper and Carson are getting married!! Or are they?? If Carson can make something complicated you bet your bottom dollar, she will, and she tries Blake’s patience, and mine, as it seems she still has some things to work through before she can totally commit to marriage. Sounds like classic Carson, right?
Harper allows Granny James to interfere which causes trouble with Taylor, and Dora continues to put Devlin off about their future.
Meanwhile, MawMaw has been bitten by the romance bug herself, and Granny James feels like she has no place to land, since MawMaw moved out to the cottage, a place she always thought would be hers, eventually.
With the ladies making wedding plans, and struggling with doubts, and upheavals, a surprise visit from a minister, which could set off a scandal of epic proportions, instead becomes a soothing balm for the girls by becoming a voice of reason by offering sane opinions and advice.
Emily Post was the supreme authority on etiquette and MawMaw still holds onto those protocols, and old fashioned southern traditions that she attempts to pass along to her granddaughters as they prepare to enter that all important institution of marriage. The most interesting advice given to brides to be, adds a charming factor to the story as old values blend with new ones. Sometimes they clash, but in the end, the ladies once more learn to give and take, to work together, to do what families do, and the results are amazing.
This last book in the series packs the same emotional punch as in the previous installments, but there were some genuine moments of mirth, a few ironical situations, and as all the pieces began to fit together, once and for all, I felt like popping the cork on a bottle of champagne and celebrating with the Muir’s.
As the finale arrives, a real sense of peace settled over me, but not without a few bittersweet and poignant moments, as remembrances, memories, and some permanent, but necessary goodbyes must take place.
This series has turned out to be one of my favorites of all time. I have enjoyed this journey with Carson, Harper, and Dora. I’ve shared their fears, doubts, frustrations, and struggles. I’ve watched them all fall in love, grow up, spread their wings, and land back where they all belonged from the start. I’ve been angry, frustrated, laughed and cried with all these intimately drawn characters, each with foibles, but all of them filled with inner strength and love.
But, the most rewarding part is finally seeing the sisterly bond which had all but disappeared, build over time until these fine women, with the help of one very special lady, found their way back to one another, learned to lean on each other, and support each other, and will no doubt share that bond with future generations.
I do recommend reading these books in order, because there is simply too much very important backstory you simply have to know in order to experience the full pleasure of this series. That being said, I can’t recommend this series highly enough!!
5 stars
I have been eagerly anticipating this return to Sea Breeze, and reconnecting with the Muir’s.
Finally, Harper and Carson are getting married!! Or are they?? If Carson can make something complicated you bet your bottom dollar, she will, and she tries Blake’s patience, and mine, as it seems she still has some things to work through before she can totally commit to marriage. Sounds like classic Carson, right?
Harper allows Granny James to interfere which causes trouble with Taylor, and Dora continues to put Devlin off about their future.
Meanwhile, MawMaw has been bitten by the romance bug herself, and Granny James feels like she has no place to land, since MawMaw moved out to the cottage, a place she always thought would be hers, eventually.
With the ladies making wedding plans, and struggling with doubts, and upheavals, a surprise visit from a minister, which could set off a scandal of epic proportions, instead becomes a soothing balm for the girls by becoming a voice of reason by offering sane opinions and advice.
Emily Post was the supreme authority on etiquette and MawMaw still holds onto those protocols, and old fashioned southern traditions that she attempts to pass along to her granddaughters as they prepare to enter that all important institution of marriage. The most interesting advice given to brides to be, adds a charming factor to the story as old values blend with new ones. Sometimes they clash, but in the end, the ladies once more learn to give and take, to work together, to do what families do, and the results are amazing.
This last book in the series packs the same emotional punch as in the previous installments, but there were some genuine moments of mirth, a few ironical situations, and as all the pieces began to fit together, once and for all, I felt like popping the cork on a bottle of champagne and celebrating with the Muir’s.
As the finale arrives, a real sense of peace settled over me, but not without a few bittersweet and poignant moments, as remembrances, memories, and some permanent, but necessary goodbyes must take place.
This series has turned out to be one of my favorites of all time. I have enjoyed this journey with Carson, Harper, and Dora. I’ve shared their fears, doubts, frustrations, and struggles. I’ve watched them all fall in love, grow up, spread their wings, and land back where they all belonged from the start. I’ve been angry, frustrated, laughed and cried with all these intimately drawn characters, each with foibles, but all of them filled with inner strength and love.
But, the most rewarding part is finally seeing the sisterly bond which had all but disappeared, build over time until these fine women, with the help of one very special lady, found their way back to one another, learned to lean on each other, and support each other, and will no doubt share that bond with future generations.
I do recommend reading these books in order, because there is simply too much very important backstory you simply have to know in order to experience the full pleasure of this series. That being said, I can’t recommend this series highly enough!!
5 stars
September 8, 2016
Lowcountry Happy Endings
The fourth and final (?) book in the Lowcountry Summer Series has lots of heart but there's a lot going on here and circumstances were a bit much for me to believe. While I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and the amazing setting, one of my favorite places in the world, this last offering left me rolling my eyes one too many times. However, the characters are lovely and there's a surprise addition to the Muir family that I never saw coming. I'll miss the girls, Mamaw, and, mostly, the sweet dolphin, Delphine.
The Lowcountry Summer series consists of four books. The other books in the series are:
#1 - THE SUMMER GIRLS ( my personal favorite.)
#2 - THE SUMMER WINDS
#3 - THE SUMMER'S END
FYI: As always, Monroe includes delicious southern recipes that were enjoyed at Sea Breeze. Enjoy the gumbo. =)
For more Mary Alice Monroe reading enjoyment, visit her website @
http://MaryAliceMonroe.com
Facebook.com/MaryAliceMonroe
*Many thanks to my local library, Breaux Bridge Public Library/St. Martin Parish Libraries, for adding this book after my many suggestions.
The fourth and final (?) book in the Lowcountry Summer Series has lots of heart but there's a lot going on here and circumstances were a bit much for me to believe. While I have thoroughly enjoyed this series and the amazing setting, one of my favorite places in the world, this last offering left me rolling my eyes one too many times. However, the characters are lovely and there's a surprise addition to the Muir family that I never saw coming. I'll miss the girls, Mamaw, and, mostly, the sweet dolphin, Delphine.
The Lowcountry Summer series consists of four books. The other books in the series are:
#1 - THE SUMMER GIRLS ( my personal favorite.)
#2 - THE SUMMER WINDS
#3 - THE SUMMER'S END
FYI: As always, Monroe includes delicious southern recipes that were enjoyed at Sea Breeze. Enjoy the gumbo. =)
For more Mary Alice Monroe reading enjoyment, visit her website @
http://MaryAliceMonroe.com
Facebook.com/MaryAliceMonroe
*Many thanks to my local library, Breaux Bridge Public Library/St. Martin Parish Libraries, for adding this book after my many suggestions.
May 30, 2016
This book just felt a little predictable and rushed....the tension was mostly manufactured and the "family secret" unfolded just a little too strangely. I like this series and will keep reading, but this wasn't my favorite.
December 21, 2016
Novel received courtesy of Goodreads.com First Reads Giveaway
I love stories that are set in Lowcountry and islands of the Carolinas. The setting, if done well, becomes almost another character. Mary Alice Monroe definitely does it right! As the two brides were deciding on venues for their weddings, the area was beautifully described.
This is the fourth in the series of "Lowcountry Summer" novels. Even though I haven't read the first three, I felt as though I quickly got to know and care about the characters in the story. The matriarch of the Muir family, Mamaw, is the quintessential southern lady. Her granddaughters Harper, Dora and Carson are modern southern women. This novel is the story of Carson and Harper both getting married at two different venues in one weekend.
This is a beautifully written novel that allows me to see the story as a movie. I will be looking for the first three in the series!
I love stories that are set in Lowcountry and islands of the Carolinas. The setting, if done well, becomes almost another character. Mary Alice Monroe definitely does it right! As the two brides were deciding on venues for their weddings, the area was beautifully described.
This is the fourth in the series of "Lowcountry Summer" novels. Even though I haven't read the first three, I felt as though I quickly got to know and care about the characters in the story. The matriarch of the Muir family, Mamaw, is the quintessential southern lady. Her granddaughters Harper, Dora and Carson are modern southern women. This novel is the story of Carson and Harper both getting married at two different venues in one weekend.
This is a beautifully written novel that allows me to see the story as a movie. I will be looking for the first three in the series!
May 9, 2016
Initially, I was so so excited to see that a fourth book was coming out in the Summer Girl series. I really liked the first three, and wanted to continue reading about the Muir sisters and their grandmother.
But although the story was inviting, I found this one to be my least favorite. Maybe too predictable, but at the same time far fetched, I was disappointed, especially since I was so looking forward to reading it.
I wouldn't turn my back on the author, or subsequent books, but I wouldn't run to read this one.
But although the story was inviting, I found this one to be my least favorite. Maybe too predictable, but at the same time far fetched, I was disappointed, especially since I was so looking forward to reading it.
I wouldn't turn my back on the author, or subsequent books, but I wouldn't run to read this one.
June 26, 2021
Meh. This one I didn’t love. The only reason I kept reading it was because I was already invested in the characters. The best part was the relationship between Girard and Mawma. The plot was incredibly predictable, and while I completely accept that in these chick lit novels, this one was simply too predictable. If you’re already into the series’s and characters, go ahead and read it; but don’t feel too badly if you skip it too.
October 8, 2017
Wow! Are they really this sexist, shallow and backwards. Fast read but took me for ever to finish because I needed to take a break from this bad writing and whining women.
February 11, 2021
This book in another installment in the Lowcountry Summer series by Mary Alice Monroe. Much like the others in the series, we continue following the journey of three half-sisters who not only learning to love themselves but are also delving into love and marriage in this book. We get to read about, what I imagine to be, the beautiful and magical South Carolina low country and the connection people have to the place. This book does not disappoint for those who are fans of the first three books. Monroe keeps us interested and even throws in a twist introducing a new character to the bunch named Atticus. I recommend these books all the time for people who love a good beach read or anyone who wishes to be transported to another place. This book could work as a stand alone if you have not read the previous books and does a good job of keeping you up to date as to what is happening in everyone's lives. I have enjoyed these books immensely and would love to see yet another installment to the series.
Find it today: https://ent.sharelibraries.info/clien...
Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
Find it today: https://ent.sharelibraries.info/clien...
Ashley C. / Milton Public Library #CheckOutMPL
August 31, 2024
This third book in the LowCountry Series is as wonderful as the first 2 books were. The characters were really interesting and the story was beautifully written. I enjoyed all of the details of the Muir family history and also the importance of love acceptance and forgiveness was to this family. I can’t wait to read more of Mary Alice Monroe’s books 💕💕💕
May 19, 2016
4.5 stars. It was with much excitement that some of we readers learned there was a fourth book set in the lowcountry, with the three Muir sisters and Mamaw. Harper and Carson are in the final count down to their weddings. Dora had seemed all settled and all was well. Or so we thought. However life does go on, and we were taken further along on the journey.
I had listened to the first three in this series on audiobook and loved the narration by the author. However I couldn't wait when I saw this one, I wanted to get down and read it. I love the description of the setting, all the sights and sounds of that part of the world.
Mary Alice Monroe certainly takes a surprising step in this book, I really don't want to say any more because to do so would be to spoil the surprise for other readers. I can only say I loved the surprise, and while the sisters found it hard to come to grips with it, what a gift for them.
The book covers the two months lead up to the wedding and all that goes on before a wedding. Finding the right dress and making the final decisions about the venue. Harper and Carson seem to have got mixed up and oddly are planning a wedding that the other would be more comfortable in.
All three sisters are still dealing with issues and growing through them. Harper has money and how does that leave Taylor feeling? Carson wants to know she has work and will never be without it. Dora is on the verge of a new job and a newly minted divorce. She wants to prove her independence and ability to prove herself much to the chagrin of Devlin. So you see, plenty of ways all this could go. I wondered if there would be a wedding by the end and would Mamaw survive without a hear attack!
Lastly but not the least, Delphine makes some appearances - significant ones and she also has the honor of the epilogue. Perfect.
I had listened to the first three in this series on audiobook and loved the narration by the author. However I couldn't wait when I saw this one, I wanted to get down and read it. I love the description of the setting, all the sights and sounds of that part of the world.
Mary Alice Monroe certainly takes a surprising step in this book, I really don't want to say any more because to do so would be to spoil the surprise for other readers. I can only say I loved the surprise, and while the sisters found it hard to come to grips with it, what a gift for them.
The book covers the two months lead up to the wedding and all that goes on before a wedding. Finding the right dress and making the final decisions about the venue. Harper and Carson seem to have got mixed up and oddly are planning a wedding that the other would be more comfortable in.
All three sisters are still dealing with issues and growing through them. Harper has money and how does that leave Taylor feeling? Carson wants to know she has work and will never be without it. Dora is on the verge of a new job and a newly minted divorce. She wants to prove her independence and ability to prove herself much to the chagrin of Devlin. So you see, plenty of ways all this could go. I wondered if there would be a wedding by the end and would Mamaw survive without a hear attack!
Lastly but not the least, Delphine makes some appearances - significant ones and she also has the honor of the epilogue. Perfect.
March 9, 2016
This is book 4 in Mary Alice Monroe's Low Country Summer series. The series needs to be read in order because there are lots of references to the previous books.
Once again we are back on Sullivan's Island SC with the Muir family at Sea Breeze while Harper and Carson plan their weddings. Their planning is helped by Dora, their grandmother and Harper's grandmother from England. If planning two weddings a day apart - one on the beach and one at a plantation - isn't stressful enough, there is a surprise visitor who joins the family and really changes the family dynamics. And of course, there is the beautiful South Carolina low country, the ocean and Delphane, the dolphin from the earlier books. The characters are well done and very real and the scenery makes you feel like you are ready to dip your toes into the ocean.
I love Mary Alice Monroe's book and I really love this series. I'm sad that this is the end of the series and that we won't go back and spend more time with these characters that we've grown to know so well. This is a great series and I highly recommend it!
(Thanks to NetGalley and the author for a copy of this book for a fair and unbiased review.)
Once again we are back on Sullivan's Island SC with the Muir family at Sea Breeze while Harper and Carson plan their weddings. Their planning is helped by Dora, their grandmother and Harper's grandmother from England. If planning two weddings a day apart - one on the beach and one at a plantation - isn't stressful enough, there is a surprise visitor who joins the family and really changes the family dynamics. And of course, there is the beautiful South Carolina low country, the ocean and Delphane, the dolphin from the earlier books. The characters are well done and very real and the scenery makes you feel like you are ready to dip your toes into the ocean.
I love Mary Alice Monroe's book and I really love this series. I'm sad that this is the end of the series and that we won't go back and spend more time with these characters that we've grown to know so well. This is a great series and I highly recommend it!
(Thanks to NetGalley and the author for a copy of this book for a fair and unbiased review.)
May 4, 2016
As soon as I started reading page one, I found myself exhaling a deep sense of calmness, as I was immediately drawn back to the beauty of the Lowcountry. Luscious, elegantly written words gave me a warm welcome back to Sullivan's Island and nearby Charleston. Three half-sisters who have the same father and different mothers get back together with Mamaw, their grandmother, and wedding plans take shape. Delphine, the beloved dolphin, is back and beautifully woven into the story. There are big surprises with new characters in this fourth book of this series. I laughed and cried with all of the characters, and found myself beside them, wanting to help them out. The descriptions of the sceneries could not be more life-like. I felt the emotional struggles of every character, smelled the scents of the waters, warmed to the men's groundness, felt the breezes, and heard the voices of nature, mammals, and the wisdom of the elders. For me, every book by Mary Alice Monroe rates five stars, and this is no exception. If you haven't read the first three books, I highly recommend that you read them. [I received an early copy in exchange for my honest review.]
August 11, 2016
Two of the three Summer girl sisters are getting married. Sea Breeze is where they all bonded every summer and there is no greater place to get married. Harper is loving all the planning that goes into the her wedding. Carson is reluctant and needs to be prodded to get anything done. Does this mean she is not as excited to get married? Older sister Dora has found love again, but wants to take it slow and be self sufficient for a bit more. There was a surprise twist in the book that added interestingly enough to the story. I loved revisiting with these characters after reading their individual stories and was a bit concerned about how the twist would change the dynamics of this family, but it turned out fantastically and a great conclusion to the previous three books.
August 20, 2016
This story surprised in how much I couldn't stop reading and surprisingly enough, I even cried bythe end of the story. Mary Alice Monroe creates characters that truly do connect with the reader. She also made me want to hop in my car and head for South Carolina! The grandmothers, Mamaw and Granny James were absolutely delightful characters and I relished each time they appeared on scene.
The story had a very "hallmark hall of fame " vibe to it.A good clean story about the true commitment that marriage is. While some may argue that the ending could be a little too fairytale, I felt that it was a very nice ending.
Although part of a series, MAM provides new readers with enough of each characters backstory that no holes need filling. A good beach read!
The story had a very "hallmark hall of fame " vibe to it.A good clean story about the true commitment that marriage is. While some may argue that the ending could be a little too fairytale, I felt that it was a very nice ending.
Although part of a series, MAM provides new readers with enough of each characters backstory that no holes need filling. A good beach read!
April 12, 2022
This is the 4th series in Mary Alice Monroe's low country series. Once again back on Sullivan's Island with Muir family at Sea Breeze where Harper and Carson are planning their weddings. Helped by sister Dora, their Grandmother and Harper's Grandmother from England. If.planning 2 weddings isn't stressful enough, there is a surprise visitor who joins the family dynamics and of course the beautiful South Carolina low country, the ocean and Delphine, the dolphin from the earlier books. I love love these books. I just learned there is 5th book --- A Low Country Christmas...which I will read. Highly recommend this trilogy😀
June 23, 2016
Mary Alice Monroe infuses every word she writes with her love of the low country. She has made this Pennsylvania native yearn for that magical part of the country. She draws rich characters who it is a pleasure to know. This book is a romance but, as always with her books, the romance is between the reader and the setting and its inhabitants. Great book.
January 27, 2016
"A Lowcountry Wedding" is another installment in the Muir girls lives. Was tired of them by the third book. I tried to get into this one, but I guess I'm just not in the mood to go through more drama with them.
August 17, 2017
Great ending to the books.
May 15, 2016
Loved all 4 books! Great reads for your summer at the beach.
June 14, 2020
I find it hard to rate this novel. Parts of it were delightful. I loved the relationships with the grandmother's which brought humour and poignancy to the story. Atticus was very endearing; his struggles with his new found identity were perhaps not explored well enough. That could be said for each of the main characters;however, that may be why the reader should start at the beginning of the series.
Mary Alice Monroe paints a beautiful picture of the low country which makes the reader feel as though s/he is living and breathing the very air as it is described.
I will read more by this author.
Mary Alice Monroe paints a beautiful picture of the low country which makes the reader feel as though s/he is living and breathing the very air as it is described.
I will read more by this author.
March 14, 2017
Low country Weddings and one Wedding equipment.
After reading these low country novels I can smell the sweet salt air and feel the soft breezes on my skin. I'm in love with Taylor and Blake and want the Rev to preform the weddings. Mawmaw and Granny James are nestled in the big black chairs drinking sweet tea. I feel a part of the families and life at Sea Breeze. I recommend reading these novels from the beginning so that you can become immersed in the country of Sullivan's Island.
After reading these low country novels I can smell the sweet salt air and feel the soft breezes on my skin. I'm in love with Taylor and Blake and want the Rev to preform the weddings. Mawmaw and Granny James are nestled in the big black chairs drinking sweet tea. I feel a part of the families and life at Sea Breeze. I recommend reading these novels from the beginning so that you can become immersed in the country of Sullivan's Island.
August 1, 2018
Great book! Lots of unexpected surprises, some pleasant, others less so, but the sisters and Mamaw cope with all of them. The brides and grooms work out their problems, some more easily than others.
Will Carson’s and Harper’s weddings occur without drama or problems?
Ms. Monroe has written another fabulous Low Country story.
Will Carson’s and Harper’s weddings occur without drama or problems?
Ms. Monroe has written another fabulous Low Country story.
February 21, 2024
I loved this easy read! It’s the 4th book in a series and I really need to go back and read the previous 3. It feels like this should be a Hallmark movie about 3 sisters living in the low country and planning weddings. This was extra special for me since I shared the same wedding venue as one of these brides.
September 17, 2018
I have LOVED these books. I love the diverse characters and I love that the grandmothers played a significant role in the three girls’ lives. This series is about women’s relationships and how they find their passion in life. Perhaps not great literature, but definitely well written and VERY enjoyable.
May 23, 2017
Although this is by no means a literary masterpiece, it was such a wonderful read. Probably, because I'd just come back from Charleston and all the places and traditions were still on my mind but nevertheless, this book would bring you right back immersed in all the beauty of the lowcountry with immensely likable characters and dreamy settings. The perfect cozy escape kind of book!
July 26, 2018
I listened to this book on CD. It was very good and the story flowed nicely. It can be read as a standalone but I recommend that the books are read in order. Enjoy the Lowcountry!
December 9, 2019
I have loved this series so much!! So sad it’s over!! Love this family! Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 592 reviews