The Summer House

by Susan Mallery, Teresa Southwick

MARRYING MANDY by USA TODAY bestselling author Susan Mallery

Eight years ago, Mandy Carter and Rick Benson shared a whirlwind romance--and a painfully short-lived marriage. Now that Rick was back in her life...back in her arms...would history repeat itself, or would their future hold a passion powerful enough to last forever?

COURTING CASSANDRA by national bestselling author Teresa Southwick

Cassie Brightwell thought she was over and done with loving Kyle Stratton, her older brother's best friend. But when Kyle unexpectedly turned up--as her next-door neighbor--Cassie realized that her school age crush was still going strong. This time around, the two were determined not to make the same mistakes from the past--even if it meant risking all!

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary Romance, Summer Reads, Second Chance, Contemporary, Adult Fiction

256 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published December 1, 2002

About the author

#1 New York Times bestselling author Susan Mallery writes heartwarming and humorous novels about the relationships that define women's lives—family, friendship, romance. She's best known for putting nuanced characters into emotionally complex, real-life situations with twists that surprise readers to laughter. Because Susan is passionate about animal welfare, pets play a big role in her books. Beloved by millions of readers worldwide, her books have been translated into 28 languages.

Critics have dubbed Mallery "the new queen of romantic fiction." (Walmart) Booklist says, "Romance novels don't get much better than Mallery's expert blend of emotional nuance, humor, and superb storytelling," and RT Book Reviews puts her "in a class by herself!" It's no wonder that her books have spent more than 200 weeks on the USA Today bestsellers list.

Although Susan majored in Accounting, she never worked as an accountant because she was published straight out of college with two books the same month. Sixteen prolific years and seventy-four books later, she hit the New York Times bestsellers list for the first time with Accidentally Yours in 2008. She made many appearances in the Top 10 before (finally) hitting #1 in 2015 with Thrill Me, the twentieth book in her most popular series, the Fool's Gold romances, and the fourth of five books released that year.

Susan lives in Washington state with her husband, two ragdoll cats, and a small poodle with delusions of grandeur. Her heart for animals has led Susan to become an active supporter of the Seattle Humane Society. Visit Susan online at www.SusanMallery.com.

Reviews

[Lucy · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF This was just wrong on different levels, so I gave up. I was expecting a fun summer short story, and this wasn’t it.

[Micky Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet short story of if only's that can lead to second chances. How many times in your daily life do you think about the past and think if only I had reacted differently, this is a story of getting to reevaluate the if only's with an ex and the closure or beginning that it leads to now. Well written story with great dialogue and fantastic characters that have been incredibly well developed in a short story. The narration does a wonderful job of bringing the characters more fully to life. I will confess that I am a fan of this author and this novella just once again confirmed my fandom!

[Jen · Rating 2 out of 5]

OOOOOF. This was a tough one. I listened to it on audio and it was a struggle. I actually stopped it soon after I started it to ensure it was a Susan Mallery. This was clearly an early work of hers and was re released on audio. I struggled with basically every aspect of this book. Not for me, but it won’t stop me from reading the authors books in the future.

[January · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Summer House by Susan Mallery (2025)
previously published as Marrying Mandy omnibus as part of The Summer House (2002) featuring Marrying Mandy by Susan Mallery and Courting Cassandra by Teresa Southwick
2h 55m narrated by Tanya Eby

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Featuring: Former Mother-In-Law, Second Chance Trope - Divorced Couple, Ex-Moving Back To Town Trope, Santa Barbara, California; Carpinteria, California; Los Angeles, California; August, Tech Wiz, Special Education Teacher, Sex - Detailed, Movie Industry, Trisomy 21

Rating as a movie: R/NC-17 for sexual content

Books and Authors mentioned: The Emperor's New Clothes by Hans Christian Andersen

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🏖💔💒

My thoughts: I really wasn't feeling this story that much. It was okay. I wondered why is this called The Summer House but later discovered that was the name of the doubled feature it was a part of and The Summer House is better than the original title of Marrying Mandy. If you'd told me this was written in 1995 I'd believe you, it felt old-school.

Recommend to others: Maybe, it wasn’t bad, just thin and simple.

[Nilam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This wasn’t bad, but it also wasn’t out of this world — more of a pleasant little read than a memorable one. The Summer House is a sweet novella about second chances, and while it didn’t totally sweep me away, I appreciated the warmth and the hope woven through the story. It’s the kind of book that’s nice for a cozy afternoon when you just want something gentle and easy to finish.

[Alejandra · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars because of how it made me feel. Quick cute love story and I was in it from the moment it started. I loved it

[HÜLYA · Rating 3 out of 5]

Susan Mallery'inin başlayıp Teresa Southwick'in devam ettiği Yaz ayları hikayelerinden Kızgın Kumlar'ı çok severek okudum .

[penelopewanders]

I apparently mooched this to make up a parcel at some point, as I usually enjoy Susan Mallery's books.
Hopefully no spoilers below.
Here we have two novellas, linked by a summer house and a few overlapping characters. The two main characters don't actually spend time on the page together, but are referred to, are friends, and had been meant to holiday together in the vacation home belonging to the family of one of them.
Both stories are more or less of the second chance romance trope, although Mallery's is more successful than the second with two exes meeting up for lunch, some eight years after their divorce.. It struck me as being quite a bit steamier than most of Mallery's books - perhaps because it was all packed into fewer pages.
It was a quick, entertaining read.
The second story didn't really work for me, for some reason. I suppose all the pieces were there - long time crush on the boy next door, who it turns out to have harbored a similar crush but had been severely warned off by the girl's brother who is his best friend.
I think part of the disconnect was that the hero comes off as some sort of poor relation, and he has obediently followed the brother's command. He is not willing to risk the only family he has - his best friend and the siblings and parents. Somehow, an intelligent, educated, well employed, wealthy (because his own family, which owns the other half of the beachfront property, is hardly destitute and he is a successful divorce lawyer to boot) good-looking young man doesn't really fit my idea of poor and desperate. Maybe I am somehow prejudiced, but it all felt too contrived and I found myself doing something I almost never do when reading - skimming towards the end.
So rather disappointing, all in all.
Hopefully someone else's cup of tea.

[Rachel Drummond · Rating 4 out of 5]

**Audiobook Review: *The Summer House* by Susan Mallory**

Okay, so *The Summer House* is basically your ultimate summer escape in audio form. Susan Mallory serves up a story that’s equal parts steamy romance and emotional rollercoaster, all set in this dreamy, sun-soaked getaway that feels like the perfect break from reality.

The audiobook totally nails the vibe—imagine a narrator whose voice is as smooth as a summer breeze, effortlessly drawing you into every sun-drenched moment and heart-fluttering twist. The characters are so relatable; they’re juggling secrets, longing, and some seriously intense chemistry that has you hooked from the first scene. Every plot twist feels like a refreshing dip in the ocean, keeping the suspense alive and your heart racing.

If you’re into slow-burn romance with a side of summer magic—and if you loved that feel-good, immersive storytelling of your fave beach reads—this one is a must-add to your playlist. *The Summer House* is the perfect blend of lighthearted fun and deep emotional moments that will have you daydreaming about endless summer days long after the audiobook ends.

**Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for the opportunity 💕**

[Elaine · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short. Sweet. But…. Very predictable.

A divorced couple meets up after parents intercede… to ‘catch up’…

Their lives have gone in very different directions since they last spoke…

Again sweet and short!

But, I was thrown off by the Palm Pilot mention, as well as the small cell phone stuffed in his pocket…thinking this was some type of re-brand… and yes, that’s what it was…

Previously published as Marrying Mandy in 2002.

3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me.

#TheSummerHouse by #SusanMallery and narrated by #TanyaEby. Thanks to my library for the lend!

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Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Susan Hamann · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mandy and Rick, young, inexperienced and hot for each other married in a rush and were divorced 8 months later. A number of years later, Mandy teaches special ed and Rick is a very successful entrepreneur. They haven't seen each other, nor even though about each other for years. Rick's mother suggests that Mandy invite him to lunch because Mandy is staying at a beach house near his home.

Both have grown in so many ways. There are also some physical changes that are more than attractive. And they find that they are interested in each other, but are leery to begin another relationship. The better they know each other, the more interested they become. It's a pretty good story. It's a re-release of a prior book by the author.

I listened to an audio version of the book and enjoyed it.

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the Susan Mallery story about Mandy and Rick. The book I had only had their story. I couldn’t find it on Goodreads by itself.

It’s a very sweet story. You can tell it’s an earlier work, but still has some of her trademark storytelling ways which I have come to enjoy over the years.

Susan Mallery’s books often showcase some sort of cause. In this one, Mandy is a special needs teacher. She’s looking at adopting a down syndrome 8 yr old girl. There’s always a happy ending with Susan Mallory’s books. People work out their issues and it’s very gratifying reading her romance stories. They have a little depth. It’s not just about attraction. Everybody’s got a little baggage and somehow they work it out.

[Beyond the Pages with Eva K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick Summary: A second chance after divorce romance

My Review: The Summer House by Susan Mallery is an adult, contemporary romance. The audiobook is being released by Harlequin Audio on 3/4/25. The novel was originally released in 2002 (Marrying Mandy).

About the Book: "Revisit an uplifting second chance romance..."

In My Own Words: Two people. Two choices. A second chance. Closure or something more?

At a Glance:

Married young
Faulty expectations
Blaming/accusations
Adultery
Divorce
Second chance
Disability
Reconciliation
New Beginnings

About the Characters:

Rick - I liked Rick, but I did not always like what he said, and I definitely did not like him after the big no no. Upon seeing each other again, he rubbed me the wrong way when he stated that Mandy had not changed and that she was running...again. Dare I say that she was justified when she left initially, even if she made an error in judgment with what came after. On the flip side, the way Rick engaged with Evie was charming. I appreciated how the two clicked.

Mandy - I liked Mandy, but I did not love her. She was nice enough, but at the same time, she seemed to lack strength of conviction, as well as confidence. I understood her backstory and I could see how it shaped her, but she was old enough to be more firm, in terms of what she wanted. It should not have taken a man to spur her into action. It should also not have taken her friend to state the obvious before she gained insight into her relationship woes with Rick.

Evie - I loved this character. It was refreshing to meet her in the story. For her diagnosis, she appeared high functioning. I liked that she communicated as well as she did. It was also good to see her in a [potential] family unit with two supportive adults.

Rick's mom/Mandy's MIL - Although she did not make a direct appearance, she was a force, in terms of presence. She likely saw all that should have/could have been. with her son and her former DIL. It was interesting to see her influence...and her patience with Rick and Mandy, even as they were not always patient with each other.

About the Conflict: This couple did not have small problems. Because they were young when they first got together, they went into the marriage with some distorted perceptions. Instead of communicating, they shut down and drifted apart. From there, the bad choices were theirs to be make. The second chance scenario was realistic, I suppose.

About the Audiobook: This book was narrated by Tanya Eby. She kept things entertaining. She had a nice rhythm, and she portrayed the characters well.

My Final Say: This was a sweet yet complicated story. Though lighthearted overall, there were a few factors that made this a bit challenging, if I am being honest. I don't know that I got the answer I was looking for on why Rick made the marriage-altering choice that he did. Mandy's error was indicated in detail. The reason should have been revealed for both for there to be balance and transparency.

Other: This novel was an acceptable length. I could easily see it being longer, if only for marriage counseling, interactions with his mom and her dad.

Readers who enjoy stories about breaking up, making up, and securing a love supreme should like this short romance novel.

Rating: 3.75/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: 👍
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +

Sincere appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Harlequin Audio), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. It was a pleasure to review. I am grateful for the opportunity.

[Patrice A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley, Susan Mallery, and Harlequin Audio for allowing me to read this novella. The Summer House was personal since I am a Special Education teacher and teach students with disabilities. The Summer House was a short novel but packed with description, character development, reflection from their earlier marriage, and heart. The ending was sweet and touching without being overly saccharine.

[Linzi Adkins · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute short story. I like that the main characters are reunited after eight years and find their way back to each other. The element of foster care and adoption, especially with a special needs child, was heartwarming and was a nice addition to the story. The narrator’s voice sounded much older than 30 years old. I found it distracting and often thought that the main characters were in their mid to late 40s.

[Jocelyn · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 🌟
it was alright, I was looking for a short little story in-between my series and it had been awhile since I had read Susan mallery, my og romance queen. I did think it was newer release since it had a modern cover but it turns out it's an older release. (and this one isn't even it because it combines this other story.)I feel like this would have worked out so much better as full stand-alone story, it was a little too short for me, not fleshed out enough. it wasn't truly believable that they fell back in love and everyone worked out happily ever after. even though the reason they break up is valid and it's understandable that they were young kids that had different expectations of marriage.

[Jennifer Brown · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 Stars

Review for Marrying Mandy by Susan Mallery only:

I must be on a kick with not enjoying books lately. I've been reading a bunch of mystery/thrillers, so I wanted to throw a romance into the mix. Unfortunately, this was not the one. The couple used to be married and he cheated on her. Why would she go back to that?? I didn't feel the connection between the two. Surprising for this author, but this was not the best short story.

[Nadine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Net galley for the advanced copy of this audiobook. Young lovers married young- divorced- then got a second chance at love. The development of both MC growing up independently then able to re-emerge stronger together is a sweet story. Very quick read- would like to have another follow up story as felt easily could have been a a longer story.

[Madison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a very short, easy read! Nothing too complicated, but it was cute and the main characters were likable. The second chance romance was pretty well done and I enjoyed the writing style and the beachy setting. Definitely a nice palate cleanser!

✨Second Chance Romance
✨Meddling Ex MIL
✨California Setting
✨Beach Setting
✨Teacher FMC
✨Disability Rep.
✨Dual POV
✨Spicy
✨Novella

[Todd Katz · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was awful. I was hoping to see that perhaps this was just the first book of Susan Mallery and she was testing the waters of storytelling and writing. She has over 161 books though. This was a fast, brainless, mindless, romance that was just bad. There was no tension at all and it was just really flat.

[Barb · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I may have read this back when it first came out before I knew about Goodreads but that's ok. It is a quick read, a lot steamy, and just a fun "forget all the crap that's going on in the world right now" book.

[Hannah Krumhansl Okura · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️ cute and predictable as well as a bit corny with some of the dialogue and scenes. I’m personally very picky with second chance romances so this one just wasn’t my favorite. But it’s such a short book, great atmosphere and it did have a few moments that I really enjoyed!

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Early Susan Mallery. Very good, enjoyable read but on the short side.

[Clara Smith]

Read "Marrying Mandy" by Susan Mallery

[Candy]

Short novella. Very predictable. This is a republication of an early book by Mallery. Her style has gotten better and I like her books now much better than the books from earlier times.

[Rosie Trzewik · Rating 3 out of 5]

A second chance romance of a very young couple that married to soon and fell apart almost right from the start. Now years later keeping a promise to her ex mother in law, being told there is unfinished business between her son and herself. She calls and meets Rick for lunch and the sparks ignited into a blaze.
A quick audiobook, perfect for a couple hours getaway. A sweet romance story. Thank you #NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #TheSummerHouse

[Kat · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was ok, short story second chance romance, it was kinda stiff. not a lot of emotional connection between the two.

[Tina Hubbuck · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ Decent quick read

[Stacy K · Rating 2 out of 5]

I listened to the 2025 release of ’The Summer House’
Second chance romance. Maybe the reason why I’m giving it a low rating is I don’t know much about the couple’s back story/relationship

[Valerie Griffin · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5