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Troubled Waters #2
The Summer Town
In this sequel to the Amazon Kindle #1 selection for Mystery Thriller and Suspense, The Seasons of the EmmaLee, a captivating story of a shocking crime, bitter betrayal and enduring love, bridging time and a vast cultural divide.
It’s 1951, and Jonathan McKendry’s best friend and small-town lawyer, George Hansen, has found himself on the wrong end of bad situations in the past, but never one so unpopular as when he steps up to defend a local Native American man accused of the alleged sexual assault of the daughter of one of the town’s most prominent summer families. Jonathan, now married to Dr. Emily Compton McKendry, desperately tries to help his friend save the life of an innocent man as well as save his wife and a young family who are threatened by an abusive and murderous father who Emily is trying to help.
In the parallel present-day story, George Hansen looks down from his passing into the next world to see the events that develop in the search for his killer, as well as the challenges faced by the Clark family as Sally Thomason Clark’s husband Alex tries to save his business empire and his marriage from a ruthless partner, and daughter Megan lets her infatuation for a young local boy alienate the summer families who she thought were her friends.
The Summer Town continues the compelling love stories and riveting trials and challenges of Jonathan and Emily, and Alex and Sally in the idyllic resort town of Charlevoix, Michigan.
Amazon Five Star reviews for The Summer Town
“… another stellar novel.”
“… even more compelling than EMMALEE.”
“… a great success.”
“… a delightful read.”
“… after falling in love with SEASONS OF THE EMMALEE, this was a must read!”
Praise for Michael Lindley novels
“… Lindley is a masterful storyteller, effortlessly moving between past and present.”
“… his work reads elegantly and is artfully crafted.”
“… beautifully merges storylines of then and now.”
“… a rising talent.”
It’s 1951, and Jonathan McKendry’s best friend and small-town lawyer, George Hansen, has found himself on the wrong end of bad situations in the past, but never one so unpopular as when he steps up to defend a local Native American man accused of the alleged sexual assault of the daughter of one of the town’s most prominent summer families. Jonathan, now married to Dr. Emily Compton McKendry, desperately tries to help his friend save the life of an innocent man as well as save his wife and a young family who are threatened by an abusive and murderous father who Emily is trying to help.
In the parallel present-day story, George Hansen looks down from his passing into the next world to see the events that develop in the search for his killer, as well as the challenges faced by the Clark family as Sally Thomason Clark’s husband Alex tries to save his business empire and his marriage from a ruthless partner, and daughter Megan lets her infatuation for a young local boy alienate the summer families who she thought were her friends.
The Summer Town continues the compelling love stories and riveting trials and challenges of Jonathan and Emily, and Alex and Sally in the idyllic resort town of Charlevoix, Michigan.
Amazon Five Star reviews for The Summer Town
“… another stellar novel.”
“… even more compelling than EMMALEE.”
“… a great success.”
“… a delightful read.”
“… after falling in love with SEASONS OF THE EMMALEE, this was a must read!”
Praise for Michael Lindley novels
“… Lindley is a masterful storyteller, effortlessly moving between past and present.”
“… his work reads elegantly and is artfully crafted.”
“… beautifully merges storylines of then and now.”
“… a rising talent.”
Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2008
About the author
Michael Lindley
51 books113 followersMichael Lindley is a #1 bestselling Amazon author for "Mystery Thriller & Romantic Suspense" with his debut novel THE EMMALEE AFFAIRS.
His more recent "Hanna Walsh and Alex Frank Low Country Suspense Thriller" series ranked #1 on Amazon for Mystery and Suspense series. The "Hanna and Alex" stories are set in Charleston, Pawleys Island and the fictional Dugganville, South Carolina.
His stories feature love and relationships challenged by the troubled waters of betrayal, tragic loss, and the many dark and unforeseen forces that can lie just below the surface of our fragile lives.
All of Michael's books are set in idyllic locales and often compelling historical contexts. The settings include a remote resort town in Northern Michigan in the 1940's, 50's and present-day; Atlanta and Grayton Beach Florida in the turbulent 1920's as well in current times; and most recently, 1860's and present-day Charleston, Pawleys Island and the fictional Dugganville, South Carolina.
Michael writes full-time now, stepping away from a career in Marketing and Advertising and divides his time between Northern Michigan and Florida. He and his wife, Karen, are also on an annual quest to visit the country's spectacular national parks.
"You will often find that writers are compelled to write what they love to read.
I've always been drawn to stories that are built around an idyllic time and place as much as the characters who grace these locations. As the heroes and villains come to life in my favorite stories, facing life's challenges of love and betrayal and great danger, I also enjoy coming to deeply understand the setting for the story and how it shapes the characters and the conflicts they face.
I've also been drawn to books built around a mix of past and present, allowing me to know a place and the people who live there in both a compelling historical context, as well as in present-day.
Writers like Pat Conroy and Kristin Hannah grace my bookshelves along with Ian McEwen, Dennis Lehane, Amor Towles, Anita Shreve, Lisa Wingate, William Kent Krueger and on and on. I need more bookshelves! ML
His more recent "Hanna Walsh and Alex Frank Low Country Suspense Thriller" series ranked #1 on Amazon for Mystery and Suspense series. The "Hanna and Alex" stories are set in Charleston, Pawleys Island and the fictional Dugganville, South Carolina.
His stories feature love and relationships challenged by the troubled waters of betrayal, tragic loss, and the many dark and unforeseen forces that can lie just below the surface of our fragile lives.
All of Michael's books are set in idyllic locales and often compelling historical contexts. The settings include a remote resort town in Northern Michigan in the 1940's, 50's and present-day; Atlanta and Grayton Beach Florida in the turbulent 1920's as well in current times; and most recently, 1860's and present-day Charleston, Pawleys Island and the fictional Dugganville, South Carolina.
Michael writes full-time now, stepping away from a career in Marketing and Advertising and divides his time between Northern Michigan and Florida. He and his wife, Karen, are also on an annual quest to visit the country's spectacular national parks.
"You will often find that writers are compelled to write what they love to read.
I've always been drawn to stories that are built around an idyllic time and place as much as the characters who grace these locations. As the heroes and villains come to life in my favorite stories, facing life's challenges of love and betrayal and great danger, I also enjoy coming to deeply understand the setting for the story and how it shapes the characters and the conflicts they face.
I've also been drawn to books built around a mix of past and present, allowing me to know a place and the people who live there in both a compelling historical context, as well as in present-day.
Writers like Pat Conroy and Kristin Hannah grace my bookshelves along with Ian McEwen, Dennis Lehane, Amor Towles, Anita Shreve, Lisa Wingate, William Kent Krueger and on and on. I need more bookshelves! ML
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 30, 2018
Lake Charlevoix, MI. George Hansen (86, Uncle, lawyer) had been found dead in his boat.
Sally Thomason (wife/stepmother, nee McKendry) & he had been married on the Emma Lee II (Chris craft runabout, cruising yacht).
Sally (52), Megan Clark (stepdaughter) & various other relation & community citizens attend his funeral.
Park Ave/Central Park. NYC. Alex Clark (lawyer) was upset with Louis “Lou” Kramer (lawyer, business partner).
Round Lake harbor. Johnathan McKendry (husband, McKendry yachts, U of Michigan; engineering), & George Hansen had caught their limit for the day.
Elizabeth Hansen & Dr. Emily McKendry (29, wife, physician, nee Compton) were coming down the ramp to greet them.
1952, Fisherman’s Island beach. Jennifer Harris (Connor’s younger sister) was found passed out drunk & had been raped.
Mary Truegood (50+, Ottawa tribe, mother, Albert’s daughter) & Jonas Truegood (youngest son, Ottawa tribe) came to see George Hansen (WWII vet).
Jennifer has ID Samuel “Sam” Truegood (oldest son, Ottawa tribe, McKendry boat works) as the preparator.
Jacob Henry (Charlevoix County coroner) had released his report on George.
No foul play.
North Point. Sammy was resting on the beach.
Megan & Will Truegood (Ottawa tribe, Michigan St. fisheries biology) were out early fishing. She caught her 1st. steelhead.
Sheriff Elam Stone (Charlevoix County) was waiting for the patrol boat so the divers could search for George’s body.
Johnathan “Johnny” McKendry (husband/dad, Dartmouth U) Emily McKendry (daughter, wife/mother) & Stewart Compton (boss), were out cruising in the boat.
Emily screamed as Stewart fell overboard.
Johnathan managed to drag his lifeless body back to/in the boat.
Emily tried to revive him but to no avail.
Louis “Louie” Kramer (Mary Alice’s husband, Alex’s former partner), had some explaining to do to
Mary Alice Gregory-Kramer (Louis’ wife) when she got home.
Anna Bataglia (Italian, Alex’s lawyer) had come to visit with the couple also.
1952, Dr. McKendry informed Mrs. Agnes Slayton (wife/mother), after looking at Sara Slayton (daughter) she would also have to call the Sheriff.
Sheriff Elam Stone, Deputy Sheriff Billy were on their way to Slayton’s Elk Rapids farm.
Vince Slayton (brother, husband/father), was taken downtown & interrogated.
What did Alberta Manta & Raul go see Louis about?
Round Lake. Anna, Alex, Megan, & Becca were enjoying their swim.
Sheriff Stone was ready to integrate Vince Slayton.
Mary Truegood (Ottawa tribe, wife/mother), & Sam Truegood (McKendry boat works) arrived at the courthouse.
George Hansen (lawyer, retired WWII vet) would represent him in the Jennifer Harris murder case.
Why was Will Truegood arrested?
What were Louis Kramer (Mary Alice’s husband), & Alberto “Berto” Manta discussing?
What about Vince Slayton?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written who-dunit murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dunit murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Sage River Press Book; Bookfunnel; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
Sally Thomason (wife/stepmother, nee McKendry) & he had been married on the Emma Lee II (Chris craft runabout, cruising yacht).
Sally (52), Megan Clark (stepdaughter) & various other relation & community citizens attend his funeral.
Park Ave/Central Park. NYC. Alex Clark (lawyer) was upset with Louis “Lou” Kramer (lawyer, business partner).
Round Lake harbor. Johnathan McKendry (husband, McKendry yachts, U of Michigan; engineering), & George Hansen had caught their limit for the day.
Elizabeth Hansen & Dr. Emily McKendry (29, wife, physician, nee Compton) were coming down the ramp to greet them.
1952, Fisherman’s Island beach. Jennifer Harris (Connor’s younger sister) was found passed out drunk & had been raped.
Mary Truegood (50+, Ottawa tribe, mother, Albert’s daughter) & Jonas Truegood (youngest son, Ottawa tribe) came to see George Hansen (WWII vet).
Jennifer has ID Samuel “Sam” Truegood (oldest son, Ottawa tribe, McKendry boat works) as the preparator.
Jacob Henry (Charlevoix County coroner) had released his report on George.
No foul play.
North Point. Sammy was resting on the beach.
Megan & Will Truegood (Ottawa tribe, Michigan St. fisheries biology) were out early fishing. She caught her 1st. steelhead.
Sheriff Elam Stone (Charlevoix County) was waiting for the patrol boat so the divers could search for George’s body.
Johnathan “Johnny” McKendry (husband/dad, Dartmouth U) Emily McKendry (daughter, wife/mother) & Stewart Compton (boss), were out cruising in the boat.
Emily screamed as Stewart fell overboard.
Johnathan managed to drag his lifeless body back to/in the boat.
Emily tried to revive him but to no avail.
Louis “Louie” Kramer (Mary Alice’s husband, Alex’s former partner), had some explaining to do to
Mary Alice Gregory-Kramer (Louis’ wife) when she got home.
Anna Bataglia (Italian, Alex’s lawyer) had come to visit with the couple also.
1952, Dr. McKendry informed Mrs. Agnes Slayton (wife/mother), after looking at Sara Slayton (daughter) she would also have to call the Sheriff.
Sheriff Elam Stone, Deputy Sheriff Billy were on their way to Slayton’s Elk Rapids farm.
Vince Slayton (brother, husband/father), was taken downtown & interrogated.
What did Alberta Manta & Raul go see Louis about?
Round Lake. Anna, Alex, Megan, & Becca were enjoying their swim.
Sheriff Stone was ready to integrate Vince Slayton.
Mary Truegood (Ottawa tribe, wife/mother), & Sam Truegood (McKendry boat works) arrived at the courthouse.
George Hansen (lawyer, retired WWII vet) would represent him in the Jennifer Harris murder case.
Why was Will Truegood arrested?
What were Louis Kramer (Mary Alice’s husband), & Alberto “Berto” Manta discussing?
What about Vince Slayton?
Warning: This book contains extremely graphic adult content, violence, or expletive language &/or uncensored sexually explicit material which is only suitable for mature readers. It may be offensive or have potential adverse psychological effects on the reader.
I did not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing this book. While I receive free books from publishers & authors, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one. All thoughts & opinions are entirely my own.
A very awesome book cover, & great font/writing style. A very well written who-dunit murder mystery book. It was very easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge set of unique characters to keep track of. This could also make another great who-dunit murder mystery movie, or better yet a mini TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is a very easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free Sage River Press Book; Bookfunnel; Author; PDF book
Tony Parsons (Washburn)
May 21, 2026
“The Summer Town is an emotionally rich and beautifully constructed novel that masterfully blends mystery, historical drama, romance, and family conflict into a deeply immersive reading experience. Michael Lindley once again demonstrates remarkable skill in weaving together dual timelines, allowing past and present to echo one another through themes of loyalty, injustice, betrayal, and enduring love. Set against the idyllic backdrop of Charlevoix, Michigan, the novel captures both the beauty of a resort town and the hidden tensions simmering beneath its polished surface.”
“What stood out most was the emotional complexity behind the story’s central conflicts. George Hansen’s courageous decision to defend an innocent Native American man in 1951 immediately gives the novel moral urgency and emotional weight, especially as prejudice, fear, and social pressure begin to close in around him. The historical storyline feels authentic and deeply human, exploring not only injustice and violence but also friendship, integrity, and sacrifice. Equally compelling is the present-day narrative, where family tensions, greed, emotional vulnerability, and unresolved legacies continue to shape the lives of those connected to the town. I especially appreciated the way Lindley allows both timelines to emotionally inform one another, creating a sense that the past is never fully gone but continues to influence every relationship and decision. The prose feels elegant and atmospheric throughout, balancing suspense with emotional introspection and heartfelt human connection. Rich in emotion, mystery, and character depth, The Summer Town is a captivating novel that lingers long after the final chapter.”
“What stood out most was the emotional complexity behind the story’s central conflicts. George Hansen’s courageous decision to defend an innocent Native American man in 1951 immediately gives the novel moral urgency and emotional weight, especially as prejudice, fear, and social pressure begin to close in around him. The historical storyline feels authentic and deeply human, exploring not only injustice and violence but also friendship, integrity, and sacrifice. Equally compelling is the present-day narrative, where family tensions, greed, emotional vulnerability, and unresolved legacies continue to shape the lives of those connected to the town. I especially appreciated the way Lindley allows both timelines to emotionally inform one another, creating a sense that the past is never fully gone but continues to influence every relationship and decision. The prose feels elegant and atmospheric throughout, balancing suspense with emotional introspection and heartfelt human connection. Rich in emotion, mystery, and character depth, The Summer Town is a captivating novel that lingers long after the final chapter.”
November 27, 2018
As in the first book of this series, the narrative switches between past and present. The descriptions and action are well-presented and make for an easy read. The realism of life on the shore of a Great Lake makes the story interesting and authentic. There are a few surprises, but for the most part the story parallels the first. The details seem to drag through the set ups, but the action slips by rapidly. Maybe the intent is to make the story less graphic, but to me it presented a "what just happened feeling. Still an interesting story.
September 23, 2019
The Summer Town, by Michael Lindley, wraps the reader up with velvet words, from the beginning and then takes the reader along for a real read ride to wonderful on the edge of your seat places. Cannot say enough about Author Michael Lindley’s artful and unique, AND SKILLFUL writing style. I will be reading more of Author Michael Lindley’s books for sure. Captures the imagination with ease, and keeps the reader enraptured all the way to a wonderful ending. Kudos to acclaimed Author Michael Lindley for such a complete and satisifying book!! ENJOY.
May 28, 2019
After reading the first book, I had to read this. We jump back and fourth from the past and into the future. It was unique in the structure in that a dead man is telling his story. Interesting and heartbreaking, and also heartwarming. It made me smile, it made me cry! Well done!
I must tell you this was a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I must tell you this was a gift from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2022
I Love These Characters!
Lindley does a masterful job of weaving in the historical story into the modern day story. It is a real page turner with action and intrigue all the way through.
Lindley does a masterful job of weaving in the historical story into the modern day story. It is a real page turner with action and intrigue all the way through.
November 19, 2022
disjointed
This story jumped around so much it was very hard to keep the characters straight. Very confusing and caused me to have to reread passages several times. Not a good flow to the story.
This story jumped around so much it was very hard to keep the characters straight. Very confusing and caused me to have to reread passages several times. Not a good flow to the story.
November 7, 2017
Exciting Reading
Another Mike Lindley story that just can't be put down. Exciting story with excellent character development, coupled with down to earth action packed realism
Another Mike Lindley story that just can't be put down. Exciting story with excellent character development, coupled with down to earth action packed realism
February 9, 2018
Another fine book
I was caught up with the story from the first chapter. It was a wonderful sequel and followed the timeline perfectly. Thank you for this story.
I was caught up with the story from the first chapter. It was a wonderful sequel and followed the timeline perfectly. Thank you for this story.
October 2, 2021
Good
a book that's that is the last book it this series that's about a committee in Michigan where you have summer people who take over for the summer.
a book that's that is the last book it this series that's about a committee in Michigan where you have summer people who take over for the summer.
November 16, 2022
Great sequel to The Seasons of the EmmaLee. Really enjoyed both of these books set in Charlevoix, in my native state of Michigan.
June 11, 2023
The Emmalee saga continues
February 8, 2026
Interesting reading
The story moved quite well and held my interest very interesting people I am from Michigan and been to that area for vacationing and relaxation...
The story moved quite well and held my interest very interesting people I am from Michigan and been to that area for vacationing and relaxation...
May 6, 2026
a few twists and turns. But, I want to visit Charlevoix.
March 22, 2019
‘The Summer Town’ continues the story of ‘The Seasons of the Emma Lee’ with engrossing storylines about the lives of the rich vacationing and living among the locals of Charlevoix, a beautiful and peaceful resort. Clashes between the two very different classes of people creates great content and keeps pages turning. Author Michael Lindley adds special meaning to everyday happenings with a beloved character, just deceased, actually killed, telling the present day story and adding his memories of the past to explain the present. His knowledge and wisdom add depth and meaning as two storylines decades apart become the best goodread. This series is at the top of my fav list and I believe it’s a must read.
April 2, 2016
Another storyline set in Hemingway's Michigan playground. Lindley tells a lovely story and incorporates the beauty and allure of the area. After falling in love with the Seasons of the EmmaLee this was a must read!
January 26, 2017
This is a sequel to The Seasons of EmmaLee and I enjoyed it just as much as the first book. I think the reason is because it is set in Charlevoix MI.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews