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Summer Darlings
“Filled with 1960s nostalgia and a host of deftly drawn characters” (Renée Rosen, author of Park Avenue Summer), Summer Darlings pulls back the curtain on one mysterious and wealthy family as seen through the eyes of their nanny—a college student who, while falling in love on Martha’s Vineyard, is also forced to reckon with the dark side of privilege.In 1962, coed Heddy Winsome leaves her hardscrabble Irish Brooklyn neighborhood behind and ferries to glamorous Martha’s Vineyard to nanny for one of the wealthiest families on the island. But as she grows enamored with the alluring and seemingly perfect young couple and chases after their two mischievous children, Heddy discovers that her academic scholarship at Wellesley has been revoked, putting her entire future at risk. Determined to find her place in the couple’s wealthy social circles, Heddy nurtures a romance with the hip surfer down the beach while wondering if the better man for her might be a quiet, studious college boy instead. But no one she meets on the summer island—socialite, starlet, or housekeeper—is as picture-perfect as they seem, and she quickly learns that the right last name and a house in a tony zip code may guarantee privilege, but that rarely equals happiness. Praised as “a perfect summer book packed with posh people, glamor, mystery, and one clever, brave, young nanny” by New York Times bestselling author Nancy Thayer, Summer Darlings promises entrance to a rarefied world, for anyone who enjoyed Tigers in Red Weather or The Summer Wives.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 693 reviews
March 4, 2021
Note: I received a free copy of Summer Darlings by Brooke Lea Foster, in exchange for an honest review.
I wanted to like this book, but honestly, it felt like work to read it. 😬 I can’t put my finger on it exactly, it’s got the bones of a decent enough story. But all the meat was just raw and not very enjoyable to get through. Heddy, the main character, wasn’t very engaging or likable to me. The best part of this book was the last chapter.
Thank you @goodreads @brookeleafoster and @simonandschuster #goodreadsgiveaway
I wanted to like this book, but honestly, it felt like work to read it. 😬 I can’t put my finger on it exactly, it’s got the bones of a decent enough story. But all the meat was just raw and not very enjoyable to get through. Heddy, the main character, wasn’t very engaging or likable to me. The best part of this book was the last chapter.
Thank you @goodreads @brookeleafoster and @simonandschuster #goodreadsgiveaway
August 30, 2020
There is still some summer weather left and this book would be a great read for right now.
The characters are quite well developed and I liked the historical visit to Martha's Vineyard in the 60's. A great look at the wealthy who live there and the people who worked to keep the homes and inns running smoothly, as well as those hired to take care of the kids. Because of course the parents are too busy planning parties and deciding what they should add to their wardrobes.
Heddy is the main character and is spending her summer as a nanny for one of the families on the island. She is an undergraduate student on scholarship to Wellsley. This character has a lot to learn and fortunately she does grow throughout the book.
She gets into relationships that she shouldn't, finds out truths about what really goes on behind the beautiful facade of the houses and faces. She makes friends with another young woman and they generally have a great summer with some surprises
There are some interesting characters, probably most notably, Gigi a Hollywood star who decides that Heddy will be her project for the summer. She sees something in this young woman that reminds her of herself as she struggled to find herself years before.
There is the "required" hot, older man who lives on the beach in a small bungalow. He teaches surfboarding (of course) and Heddy revels in his attention. He isn't all that he appears to be, there are some secrets here.
This is a coming of age novel and it's well done. The background of the Vineyard is beautiful and well described and I enjoyed the characters.
I can recommend this book as a nice escape read.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publishers through Edelweiss. This novel is available now.
The characters are quite well developed and I liked the historical visit to Martha's Vineyard in the 60's. A great look at the wealthy who live there and the people who worked to keep the homes and inns running smoothly, as well as those hired to take care of the kids. Because of course the parents are too busy planning parties and deciding what they should add to their wardrobes.
Heddy is the main character and is spending her summer as a nanny for one of the families on the island. She is an undergraduate student on scholarship to Wellsley. This character has a lot to learn and fortunately she does grow throughout the book.
She gets into relationships that she shouldn't, finds out truths about what really goes on behind the beautiful facade of the houses and faces. She makes friends with another young woman and they generally have a great summer with some surprises
There are some interesting characters, probably most notably, Gigi a Hollywood star who decides that Heddy will be her project for the summer. She sees something in this young woman that reminds her of herself as she struggled to find herself years before.
There is the "required" hot, older man who lives on the beach in a small bungalow. He teaches surfboarding (of course) and Heddy revels in his attention. He isn't all that he appears to be, there are some secrets here.
This is a coming of age novel and it's well done. The background of the Vineyard is beautiful and well described and I enjoyed the characters.
I can recommend this book as a nice escape read.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publishers through Edelweiss. This novel is available now.
June 8, 2020
I think this was a really good debut novel and I did enjoy Brooke Lea Foster's writing.
I loved the setting and time period! Martha's Vineyard in the summer of 1962 amongst all the jet-set rich. It's a good coming-of-age story about a college girl named, Heddy who is hired by a wealthy family to be their nanny for the summer on the island. I did enjoy the story overall but there were parts that were a little slow for my liking.
I can tell the author did a lot of research about the time period and setting. I was plunged into a 1960's summer with some fun antidotes about the lifestyle, fashions and foods of the time. I really enjoyed the references to some movies and music also from that era. The only thing that puzzled me was the reference to a character calling 911 when I don't think it came into service until the later part of the 1960's. Sometimes a glaring inconsistency like that just erks me..but it really was not that big of a deal.
I do think Brook Lea Foster has demonstrated she is an entertaining and promising writer. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for kindly providing me access to this Advanced Reader Copy.
I loved the setting and time period! Martha's Vineyard in the summer of 1962 amongst all the jet-set rich. It's a good coming-of-age story about a college girl named, Heddy who is hired by a wealthy family to be their nanny for the summer on the island. I did enjoy the story overall but there were parts that were a little slow for my liking.
I can tell the author did a lot of research about the time period and setting. I was plunged into a 1960's summer with some fun antidotes about the lifestyle, fashions and foods of the time. I really enjoyed the references to some movies and music also from that era. The only thing that puzzled me was the reference to a character calling 911 when I don't think it came into service until the later part of the 1960's. Sometimes a glaring inconsistency like that just erks me..but it really was not that big of a deal.
I do think Brook Lea Foster has demonstrated she is an entertaining and promising writer. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for kindly providing me access to this Advanced Reader Copy.
August 1, 2022
Summer Darlings follows Heddy Winsome, a Wellesley student who accepts a summer job as a nanny for the Williams family, a wealthy couple with 2 kids who reside seasonally in Martha’s Vineyard.
It’s 1962 and Heddy is trying to balance her education with her future — She was raised by a single mother in Brooklyn and comes from a life of just getting by. Heddy hasn’t told her mom or anyone else that her Wellesley scholarship has been revoked, and she hopes she will be able to find a solution over the summer.
Initially, Heddy is enamored with the Williams family but as she gets to know Ted and Jean-Rose, and those in their social circle, she realizes money can’t change everything and things aren’t always as they seem.
For the most part, I enjoyed Summer Darlings, especially the time and place. Though I felt for her at times, I didn’t always like Heddy, or most of the pretentious residents, but I was still curious to find out what would happen. I found the last couple of chapters to be a bit dramatic — 3.5 stars
It’s 1962 and Heddy is trying to balance her education with her future — She was raised by a single mother in Brooklyn and comes from a life of just getting by. Heddy hasn’t told her mom or anyone else that her Wellesley scholarship has been revoked, and she hopes she will be able to find a solution over the summer.
Initially, Heddy is enamored with the Williams family but as she gets to know Ted and Jean-Rose, and those in their social circle, she realizes money can’t change everything and things aren’t always as they seem.
For the most part, I enjoyed Summer Darlings, especially the time and place. Though I felt for her at times, I didn’t always like Heddy, or most of the pretentious residents, but I was still curious to find out what would happen. I found the last couple of chapters to be a bit dramatic — 3.5 stars
May 1, 2020
Rated 4.5
It’s 1962 and Heddy Winsome is heading to Martha’s Vineyard for a summer that will forever change her life. Having been raised in Brooklyn by a single mother struggling to pay each month’s rent, Heddy is striving for something more. Everything was looking bright but after losing her scholarship to Wellesley, her future is in jeopardy. A summer working as a nanny for one of Martha’s Vineyard’s wealthiest families offers her some hope. Will being surrounded by the rich and privileged enable Heddy to enter this world and help her get closer to the life she believes she deserves?
Summer Darlings is a fun book filled with people who are not what they seem. From the perfect couple, Ted and Jean-Rose Williams, who hire Heddy, to the fun-loving and very famous actress Gigi who lives next door, to two possible love interests. You can visualize the impeccable, tasteful homes, the private beaches and the early 60s styles. And there’s some fun nostalgic references of people and places from the period.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Gallery Books and Brooke Lea Foster for an advance copy of this impressive debut effort. The publication date is May 5 and I hope Summer Darlings gets the attention it deserves.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com
It’s 1962 and Heddy Winsome is heading to Martha’s Vineyard for a summer that will forever change her life. Having been raised in Brooklyn by a single mother struggling to pay each month’s rent, Heddy is striving for something more. Everything was looking bright but after losing her scholarship to Wellesley, her future is in jeopardy. A summer working as a nanny for one of Martha’s Vineyard’s wealthiest families offers her some hope. Will being surrounded by the rich and privileged enable Heddy to enter this world and help her get closer to the life she believes she deserves?
Summer Darlings is a fun book filled with people who are not what they seem. From the perfect couple, Ted and Jean-Rose Williams, who hire Heddy, to the fun-loving and very famous actress Gigi who lives next door, to two possible love interests. You can visualize the impeccable, tasteful homes, the private beaches and the early 60s styles. And there’s some fun nostalgic references of people and places from the period.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Gallery Books and Brooke Lea Foster for an advance copy of this impressive debut effort. The publication date is May 5 and I hope Summer Darlings gets the attention it deserves.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com
May 13, 2020
*2.5 stars ✨
So disappointed. I really wanted to love this one 🙁. There was so much spite & hate in this book and the ending didn’t make much sense from the rest of the book. The only things that I loved were the cover & the 60’s time period.
So disappointed. I really wanted to love this one 🙁. There was so much spite & hate in this book and the ending didn’t make much sense from the rest of the book. The only things that I loved were the cover & the 60’s time period.
December 25, 2020
Summer Darlings by Brooke Lea Foster is a fun, summer read set in the 1960s on the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard. Heddy, a young penniless student from Wellesley steps off the boat ready to make money at her nanny summer job. She will be working for one of the richest families on the island and she hopes to make valuable connections. Heddy sees all that is beautiful and fun on this luxurious island with the potential for a wonderful summer ahead. When her college scholarship falls through, Heddy tries to make friends in the wealthy community, hoping to meet well-off, handsome and eligible men. From Ruth, her co-worker, to Gigi, a famous starlet, Heddy learns the ropes and her social life picks up. Romance takes hold, and she must decide between the cool surfer down the beach or the seemingly quiet college student. Heddy envies all the privileged families on the island, but after spending time with the wealthy people of Martha’s Vineyard, she learns that under the veil of money, there is no guarantee of happiness.
It was a joy to spend the summer on the Vinyard with Heddy. She is smart and resourceful, and comes of age during the season, walking away at the end with a renewed sense of self and a way to continue her growth and success. Summer Darlings is a lovely summer tale that gives us a window into the lives of the elegant and wealthy socialites, revealing the dark side of financial advantage, from the perspective of a poor, college aged nanny; perfect for a lazy day at the beach. Author Q & A can be found at Book Nation by Jen https://booknationbyjen.com/2020/06/2...
May 19, 2020
Terrific beach read, kills the boredom! I was really drawn into this story with the characters and lifestyle on the island. Also, the setting was before my time and it was really fascinating to read the different references from the 60's that I recognized from history or other readings.
Summer Darlings is a coming of age story featuring our main character, Heddy Winsom who is excited about spending the summer working on Martha's Vineyard as a nanny. Spending time with one of the most popular couples on the island, drives Heddy to want even more for her life. Raised by her single mother, Heddy is also dismayed to realize that one careless night has led to a big mistake that could cost her everything. So when she gets to Martha's Vineyard, she is eager to make a new life for herself and hopeful to snag a husband as well.
Things do not always go according to plan. She meets the famous (infamous) actress and starlet, Gigi McCabe who sees a bit of herself in lovely Heddy. Gig takes her under her wings and tries to give her a hand. The wife that she works for also volunteers to help steer her in the right direction as well. Heddy spends time with the family, the children and winds up meeting many people from the island and the rich and famous people staying there for the summer.
Heddy also meets two men who draw her to them in different ways, but they are radically different in their lifestyles and philosophies. It is interesting to see how these romances play out.
What I loved:
Setting. Martha's Vineyard in the 1960's is wonderful and enticing, full of mystery and sophistication... with the perfect background. The character development was good at least in Heddy. She moves from innocence to scheming like those around her. Her desperate need for a better life for herself and her mother is one of her primary motivations, but will the lifestyles and lack of morals lead her down a dark path?
What annoyed me:
The Characters!!!
Have you ever sat down to watch a show and the characters just annoy you so much that you are mouthing off and giving them a piece of your mind? The characters in Summer Darlings seriously got on my last nerve. Not sure that they are likable at all, it seems author Brooke Lea Foster truly portrayed their weaknesses with spot on accuracy and that had me cringing! (The writing was good, the characters were self absorbed, insecure, ambitious and often cruel).
Thank you to NetGalley, author Brooke Lea Foster, and Gallery Books for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
Summer Darlings is a coming of age story featuring our main character, Heddy Winsom who is excited about spending the summer working on Martha's Vineyard as a nanny. Spending time with one of the most popular couples on the island, drives Heddy to want even more for her life. Raised by her single mother, Heddy is also dismayed to realize that one careless night has led to a big mistake that could cost her everything. So when she gets to Martha's Vineyard, she is eager to make a new life for herself and hopeful to snag a husband as well.
Things do not always go according to plan. She meets the famous (infamous) actress and starlet, Gigi McCabe who sees a bit of herself in lovely Heddy. Gig takes her under her wings and tries to give her a hand. The wife that she works for also volunteers to help steer her in the right direction as well. Heddy spends time with the family, the children and winds up meeting many people from the island and the rich and famous people staying there for the summer.
Heddy also meets two men who draw her to them in different ways, but they are radically different in their lifestyles and philosophies. It is interesting to see how these romances play out.
What I loved:
Setting. Martha's Vineyard in the 1960's is wonderful and enticing, full of mystery and sophistication... with the perfect background. The character development was good at least in Heddy. She moves from innocence to scheming like those around her. Her desperate need for a better life for herself and her mother is one of her primary motivations, but will the lifestyles and lack of morals lead her down a dark path?
What annoyed me:
The Characters!!!
Have you ever sat down to watch a show and the characters just annoy you so much that you are mouthing off and giving them a piece of your mind? The characters in Summer Darlings seriously got on my last nerve. Not sure that they are likable at all, it seems author Brooke Lea Foster truly portrayed their weaknesses with spot on accuracy and that had me cringing! (The writing was good, the characters were self absorbed, insecure, ambitious and often cruel).
Thank you to NetGalley, author Brooke Lea Foster, and Gallery Books for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
April 14, 2020
Fun throwback to the 60’s with a surprise twist ending.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The 60s were transitional time in our history and this new book has captured the fun and flirty atmosphere perfectly.
Young college student from an innercity background spends an impressionable summer in Martha’s Vineyard. On the outside we see the glamour and prestige, but behind closed doors Heddy finds life is so different.
The story is so addicting because of the fact the author captures the young innocence so perfectly. The awe-inspiring homes and grounds, the beaches and sun, glitz and glamour, even crushes and young love.
But we soon see behind the scenes and how the affluent people are not what they seem. Beautifully developed and highly detailed, this story will suck you in and not let go. Plus, the ending caught me off guard and surprised me. A startling development that completely changed the story but yet gives us hope.
Foster nails her debut novel with an amazing story full of flair and flirtation where growing up is not an option but knowing who you are is critical.
Fun and addicting with a startling ending you never saw coming. A must read!
*copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/summer-darli...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The 60s were transitional time in our history and this new book has captured the fun and flirty atmosphere perfectly.
Young college student from an innercity background spends an impressionable summer in Martha’s Vineyard. On the outside we see the glamour and prestige, but behind closed doors Heddy finds life is so different.
The story is so addicting because of the fact the author captures the young innocence so perfectly. The awe-inspiring homes and grounds, the beaches and sun, glitz and glamour, even crushes and young love.
But we soon see behind the scenes and how the affluent people are not what they seem. Beautifully developed and highly detailed, this story will suck you in and not let go. Plus, the ending caught me off guard and surprised me. A startling development that completely changed the story but yet gives us hope.
Foster nails her debut novel with an amazing story full of flair and flirtation where growing up is not an option but knowing who you are is critical.
Fun and addicting with a startling ending you never saw coming. A must read!
*copy received for review consideration
Full Review - https://amidlifewife.com/summer-darli...
May 12, 2020
Terrific beach read, kills the boredom! I was really drawn into this story with the characters and lifestyle on the island. Also, the setting was before my time and it was really fascinating to read the different references from the 60's that I recognized from history or other readings.
Summer Darlings is a coming of age story featuring our main character, Heddy Winsom who is excited about spending the summer working on Martha's Vineyard as a nanny. Spending time with one of the most popular couples on the island, drives Heddy to want even more for her life. Raised by her single mother, Heddy is also dismayed to realize that one careless night has led to a big mistake that could cost her everything. So when she gets to Martha's Vineyard, she is eager to make a new life for herself and hopeful to snag a husband as well.
Things do not always go according to plan. She meets the famous (infamous) actress and starlet, Gigi McCabe who sees a bit of herself in lovely Heddy. Gig takes her under her wings and tries to give her a hand. The wife that she works for also volunteers to help steer her in the right direction as well. Heddy spends time with the family, the children and winds up meeting many people from the island and the rich and famous people staying there for the summer.
Heddy also meets two men who draw her to them in different ways, but they are radically different in their lifestyles and philosophies. It is interesting to see how these romances play out.
What I loved:
Setting. Martha's Vineyard in the 1960's is wonderful and enticing, full of mystery and sophistication... with the perfect background. The character development was good at least in Heddy. She moves from innocence to scheming like those around her. Her desperate need for a better life for herself and her mother is one of her primary motivations, but will the lifestyles and lack of morals lead her down a dark path?
What annoyed me:
The Characters!!!
Have you ever sat down to watch a show and the characters just annoy you so much that you are mouthing off and giving them a piece of your mind? The characters in Summer Darlings seriously got on my last nerve. Not sure that they are likable at all, it seems author Brooke Lea Foster truly portrayed their weaknesses with spot on accuracy and that had me cringing! (The writing was good, the characters were self absorbed, insecure, ambitious and often cruel).
Thank you to NetGalley, author Brooke Lea Foster, and Gallery Books for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
Summer Darlings is a coming of age story featuring our main character, Heddy Winsom who is excited about spending the summer working on Martha's Vineyard as a nanny. Spending time with one of the most popular couples on the island, drives Heddy to want even more for her life. Raised by her single mother, Heddy is also dismayed to realize that one careless night has led to a big mistake that could cost her everything. So when she gets to Martha's Vineyard, she is eager to make a new life for herself and hopeful to snag a husband as well.
Things do not always go according to plan. She meets the famous (infamous) actress and starlet, Gigi McCabe who sees a bit of herself in lovely Heddy. Gig takes her under her wings and tries to give her a hand. The wife that she works for also volunteers to help steer her in the right direction as well. Heddy spends time with the family, the children and winds up meeting many people from the island and the rich and famous people staying there for the summer.
Heddy also meets two men who draw her to them in different ways, but they are radically different in their lifestyles and philosophies. It is interesting to see how these romances play out.
What I loved:
Setting. Martha's Vineyard in the 1960's is wonderful and enticing, full of mystery and sophistication... with the perfect background. The character development was good at least in Heddy. She moves from innocence to scheming like those around her. Her desperate need for a better life for herself and her mother is one of her primary motivations, but will the lifestyles and lack of morals lead her down a dark path?
What annoyed me:
The Characters!!!
Have you ever sat down to watch a show and the characters just annoy you so much that you are mouthing off and giving them a piece of your mind? The characters in Summer Darlings seriously got on my last nerve. Not sure that they are likable at all, it seems author Brooke Lea Foster truly portrayed their weaknesses with spot on accuracy and that had me cringing! (The writing was good, the characters were self absorbed, insecure, ambitious and often cruel).
Thank you to NetGalley, author Brooke Lea Foster, and Gallery Books for this temporary, digital advance review copy for me to read and enjoy. As always, my opinions are my own.
May 6, 2020
One of the worst books I’ve ever read and actually finished. I feel cheated and I’m actually angry. What begins as a historical(1960s) coming of age novel that was on the beachy light side, turns into a crazy ending with guns, blackmail and financial crimes. All of this takes place in the last pages of the book changing the tone and completely negating everything you knew about the main character. And speaking of that. There was no continuity when it came to the character. She was like a windy day, with no center, blown every where. Also there were some major mistakes. She’s so poor she has a bathing suit that she bought at a thrift store, has to borrow a suit from her employer and then suddenly is putting on a bikini top.....where did that come from? I could go on and on. I really hated this. I can’t believe someone actually published it. Shame on the “author” and Gallery books
January 31, 2020
Welcome a fresh new voice in historical fiction! Brooke Lea Foster spins a delicious tale of a young girl from Brooklyn who spends a summer rubbing elbows with the rich and famous on Martha’s Vineyard. Filled with 1960s nostalgia and a host of deftly drawn characters, this is a novel that gives us an intimate look at the world of privilege, proving once again that money does not buy happiness.
May 13, 2020
3.5! Thank you Simon & Schuster Canada for the ARC!
I loved the glam of 1960s, and the whole vibe. It was so well written, and had much darker undertones than I originally expected! A little long in parts, but overall a good book to read!
I loved the glam of 1960s, and the whole vibe. It was so well written, and had much darker undertones than I originally expected! A little long in parts, but overall a good book to read!
April 12, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Gallery Books for an early e-copy.
This is my first review since the COVID panic really began in earnest, so it's a bit trickier than normal to write a focused review! But here we go...
For me, SUMMER DARLINGS had three different stages. It opened with what felt like a character study. Heddy, of college age, comes to work for a WASPy, well-to-do family on Martha's Vineyard for the summer. In this stage, the appeal is in observing the "otherness" of the time period (1960s), and in watching Heddy navigate the class differences.
Then, the book broadened into a bit of a romance, with two men on the island vying for Heddy's attentions (and provoking her boss's petty envy). This "stage" also includes a kind of Cinderella story, as a famous actress summering on the island takes Heddy under her wing and sets about making Heddy over. The entirely fictional actress possessed vampish shades of Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, and between this fact and the many references to Jackie Kennedy, the book reminded me a bit of Jess Walter's BEAUTIFUL RUINS, with SUMMER DARLINGS perhaps skewing more to the commercial side of that equation versus the literary.
Finally, during the third and extremely fast-paced final stage of the book, the plot transforms into a bit of a twisty whodunnit heist. My only complaint here is that the pacing ramped up so dramatically it felt a bit rushed at times, but I think other readers will not mind/actually enjoy a book that sprints to the end in this manner.
As far as helping potential interested readers find this book: I think fans of Fiona Davis would be best suited to really enjoy SUMMER DARLINGS. SUMMER DARLINGS doesn't do Davis's signature toggling between a past plot line and a present plot line, nonetheless there was something in Foster's plucky protagonist that is reminiscent of Davis's protagonists, and both authors work hard to transport the reader to a beloved time/place. I *WOULD* have said this would be a great summer beach read, because it seeks to distract/transport. But maybe with our present state of virus-ridden affairs in this world, it can be a good book even if you have to PRETEND you're at the beach. In other words, if you want to get away, you can pour yourself a Cape Codder or a Greyhound and dive into these pages.
This is my first review since the COVID panic really began in earnest, so it's a bit trickier than normal to write a focused review! But here we go...
For me, SUMMER DARLINGS had three different stages. It opened with what felt like a character study. Heddy, of college age, comes to work for a WASPy, well-to-do family on Martha's Vineyard for the summer. In this stage, the appeal is in observing the "otherness" of the time period (1960s), and in watching Heddy navigate the class differences.
Then, the book broadened into a bit of a romance, with two men on the island vying for Heddy's attentions (and provoking her boss's petty envy). This "stage" also includes a kind of Cinderella story, as a famous actress summering on the island takes Heddy under her wing and sets about making Heddy over. The entirely fictional actress possessed vampish shades of Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor, and between this fact and the many references to Jackie Kennedy, the book reminded me a bit of Jess Walter's BEAUTIFUL RUINS, with SUMMER DARLINGS perhaps skewing more to the commercial side of that equation versus the literary.
Finally, during the third and extremely fast-paced final stage of the book, the plot transforms into a bit of a twisty whodunnit heist. My only complaint here is that the pacing ramped up so dramatically it felt a bit rushed at times, but I think other readers will not mind/actually enjoy a book that sprints to the end in this manner.
As far as helping potential interested readers find this book: I think fans of Fiona Davis would be best suited to really enjoy SUMMER DARLINGS. SUMMER DARLINGS doesn't do Davis's signature toggling between a past plot line and a present plot line, nonetheless there was something in Foster's plucky protagonist that is reminiscent of Davis's protagonists, and both authors work hard to transport the reader to a beloved time/place. I *WOULD* have said this would be a great summer beach read, because it seeks to distract/transport. But maybe with our present state of virus-ridden affairs in this world, it can be a good book even if you have to PRETEND you're at the beach. In other words, if you want to get away, you can pour yourself a Cape Codder or a Greyhound and dive into these pages.
April 19, 2022
Well deserving of it's 3.4 rating
I still wanted to read this book, despite it's less than stellar rating, but eh, I should have listened to the collective! There were a lot of little things with this book that just left me feeling overall dissatisfied.
I don't know how to put this in words, but it just didn't read like like historical fiction or that it was taking place in the 1960s. Sure, the cars were right, but there was something about it that just didn't feel legitimate. The characters were all blah and the author threw so many people and story lines at you, but never gave you their full story. Plus, Heddy was a terrible babysitter!
The writing was mediocre and it just didn't flow well. Reading that blurb got me really excited for this book, but unfortunately, it just didn't deliver.
I still wanted to read this book, despite it's less than stellar rating, but eh, I should have listened to the collective! There were a lot of little things with this book that just left me feeling overall dissatisfied.
I don't know how to put this in words, but it just didn't read like like historical fiction or that it was taking place in the 1960s. Sure, the cars were right, but there was something about it that just didn't feel legitimate. The characters were all blah and the author threw so many people and story lines at you, but never gave you their full story. Plus, Heddy was a terrible babysitter!
The writing was mediocre and it just didn't flow well. Reading that blurb got me really excited for this book, but unfortunately, it just didn't deliver.
June 9, 2020
I loved this perfect summer read that had the right amount of 60’s glamour, fancy parties, summer fling, and a glimpse into the life of the wealthy and privileged.
Wellesley girl Heddy Winsome was spending the summer as a nanny for one of the wealthiest families in Martha’s Vineyard - Jean-Rose and Ted Williams’ two children 6 yo Teddy and 4 yo Anna. The alluring world of the summer residents at Martha’s Vineyard was seen through Hedy’s eyes as she tries to get into the social circles she had only seen and read about in magazines. She quickly learns that nothing was quite what it seems.
The writing was rich and immersive, and the characters were great - from the housekeeper she befriends, the famous movie star Gigi who takes notice of her, to the love interest - a surfer boy Ash, and the references to the pop culture of the time such as the Kennedys, Marilyn Monroe, Carly Simon and Bob Dylan to name a few. The writing was riveting and kept my attention and fingers turning those pages. Fosters’ writing, with the detailed descriptions of the setting, and the great dialogue truly transported me to the time.
Foster delivered a breathtaking debut novel that left me nostalgic, as she dove deep into the social divide and class distinctions in this compelling read. This was truly an enjoyable read.
Wellesley girl Heddy Winsome was spending the summer as a nanny for one of the wealthiest families in Martha’s Vineyard - Jean-Rose and Ted Williams’ two children 6 yo Teddy and 4 yo Anna. The alluring world of the summer residents at Martha’s Vineyard was seen through Hedy’s eyes as she tries to get into the social circles she had only seen and read about in magazines. She quickly learns that nothing was quite what it seems.
The writing was rich and immersive, and the characters were great - from the housekeeper she befriends, the famous movie star Gigi who takes notice of her, to the love interest - a surfer boy Ash, and the references to the pop culture of the time such as the Kennedys, Marilyn Monroe, Carly Simon and Bob Dylan to name a few. The writing was riveting and kept my attention and fingers turning those pages. Fosters’ writing, with the detailed descriptions of the setting, and the great dialogue truly transported me to the time.
Foster delivered a breathtaking debut novel that left me nostalgic, as she dove deep into the social divide and class distinctions in this compelling read. This was truly an enjoyable read.
November 14, 2021
I have a soft spot for books set before my time (the 90s) however this wasn't as enjoyable as I had hoped. It promised, posh people, glamour and a mystery set in the 60s and I was so excited going into it. Sadly the story didn't capture my curiosity and if was bored by it and didn't get attached to any of the characters or plot
May 25, 2020
This was a fun read, but I was confused with the ending. Heddy's actions at the end of the story didn't seem to match her character portrayal from the first 2/3 of the story. It was like it was 2 different characters. Overall, enjoyable though.
March 30, 2024
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This is the perfect pandemic, lose yourself in summer, escape to Martha's Vineyard and hang with the rich and famous book. Of Course, all is not as it seems. This is just a fun book to escape reality with, a chance to explore life as it might have been for the 'haves' and the 'have nots' one summer in the 1960s on Martha's Vineyard.
This is the perfect pandemic, lose yourself in summer, escape to Martha's Vineyard and hang with the rich and famous book. Of Course, all is not as it seems. This is just a fun book to escape reality with, a chance to explore life as it might have been for the 'haves' and the 'have nots' one summer in the 1960s on Martha's Vineyard.
March 16, 2020
I really enjoyed this book! It was an eye opening read, coming of age, money does not buy you happiness, what you see is not reality story. My favorite character was Gigi... Told in truthful and harsh way... Great book!
April 26, 2020
A DRC was provided by Edelweiss in exchange for a fair and honest review.
"A fool's paradise" is what Martha's Vineyard is described as to Heddy Winsome on the ferry over to the island, and in Heddy's case, it's true. Heddy is escaping her failed college career at Wellesley and her impoverished life in Brooklyn to nanny for a rich Wasp family and is hoping to snag a husband along the way. She writes in her journal that living with "a family, particulary an industrious one, offered...a peek into a well-tended marriage." But Jane Austen Heddy is not, however archaic her writing struggles to be, and her observations of the good life on Martha's Vineyard are mostly limited to admiring the haircuts, clothes and shopping habits of her employer's circle, and trying to keep track of who hobnobs with who. Heddy is sorely in need of having a few feminist instincts and political ideas kicked into action but all we hear of is that some housewife is writinng a book about how miserable it is to be a housewife "and it's going to be big." Betty Freidan, I presume? Heddy can see how miserable it is for herself by observing her employer, who passes along bon mots such as "you have so much to learn, dear girl. You must think about the friends you keep and what they can do for you" and treats her and Ruth, native islander and housekeeper, with petty condescension and tight fisted control throughout, even as Heddy realies her husband is beating his wife.
Sensing that Heddy's life of chasing after spoilt children and fixing broken sandals may not be enough to drive the plot, we get two suitors, both a bit slimy and confused about just how much they want Heddy, a movie star who takes on Heddy as a protege for reasons that are never quite explained, and a confusing subplot about real estate schemes gone very wrong. Heddy's great eiphany after a summer of sturm and drang is that money does not make someone happy - but the supposed twist at the end of the story undermines that. Historical fiction should do more than offer period detail of which supermarket has the best lobster, trying for glimpes of Jackie Kennedy or Cary Grant, or gawking at the hot new sport called surfing. There is very little sense of what the always slightly wild and nonconformist Martha's Vineyard of old must have been like, let alone how beautiful the place still is, especially off the beaten track that Heddy drags us along. The only natives we meet are downtrodden islanders desperate to get off, and the population is distressingly white, WASP and upper class. Even back in the 60s, the latter made up only a slice of that magical island's diverse and fascinating population. Where are the African-Americans, Jews, Wampanoags and cheerfully middle class vacationers who made the island thrum along with the monied self-anoited elite? Foster spares them not a glance. She must think her characters spend their summers on Nantucket.
"A fool's paradise" is what Martha's Vineyard is described as to Heddy Winsome on the ferry over to the island, and in Heddy's case, it's true. Heddy is escaping her failed college career at Wellesley and her impoverished life in Brooklyn to nanny for a rich Wasp family and is hoping to snag a husband along the way. She writes in her journal that living with "a family, particulary an industrious one, offered...a peek into a well-tended marriage." But Jane Austen Heddy is not, however archaic her writing struggles to be, and her observations of the good life on Martha's Vineyard are mostly limited to admiring the haircuts, clothes and shopping habits of her employer's circle, and trying to keep track of who hobnobs with who. Heddy is sorely in need of having a few feminist instincts and political ideas kicked into action but all we hear of is that some housewife is writinng a book about how miserable it is to be a housewife "and it's going to be big." Betty Freidan, I presume? Heddy can see how miserable it is for herself by observing her employer, who passes along bon mots such as "you have so much to learn, dear girl. You must think about the friends you keep and what they can do for you" and treats her and Ruth, native islander and housekeeper, with petty condescension and tight fisted control throughout, even as Heddy realies her husband is beating his wife.
Sensing that Heddy's life of chasing after spoilt children and fixing broken sandals may not be enough to drive the plot, we get two suitors, both a bit slimy and confused about just how much they want Heddy, a movie star who takes on Heddy as a protege for reasons that are never quite explained, and a confusing subplot about real estate schemes gone very wrong. Heddy's great eiphany after a summer of sturm and drang is that money does not make someone happy - but the supposed twist at the end of the story undermines that. Historical fiction should do more than offer period detail of which supermarket has the best lobster, trying for glimpes of Jackie Kennedy or Cary Grant, or gawking at the hot new sport called surfing. There is very little sense of what the always slightly wild and nonconformist Martha's Vineyard of old must have been like, let alone how beautiful the place still is, especially off the beaten track that Heddy drags us along. The only natives we meet are downtrodden islanders desperate to get off, and the population is distressingly white, WASP and upper class. Even back in the 60s, the latter made up only a slice of that magical island's diverse and fascinating population. Where are the African-Americans, Jews, Wampanoags and cheerfully middle class vacationers who made the island thrum along with the monied self-anoited elite? Foster spares them not a glance. She must think her characters spend their summers on Nantucket.
April 9, 2020
I received Summer Darlings ARC from Netgalley. This coming of age tale takes place during the summer of 1962 on Martha’s Vineyard. A reader will find the typical elements of women’s fiction, its part coming of age story, part love story. After losing her scholarship to Wellesley, Heddy decides to take a summer nanny job as a way to finance her education or find a husband. Remember this is the early 1960 when marriage was considered the best option for a woman’s security and few career options were encouraged outside of teaching or nursing. Heddy’s immediately enamored with her employers, a young, wealthy Kennedy-like couple. She also gets caught up in the loves of other rich and glamourous summer residents of the island; including a famous actress and rival of Heddy’s employer. I often find the romances in women’s fiction predictable, but Brooke Lea Foster did a great job keeping me interested. The conflict between Heddy’s desires for independence and finding a man on her own terms, within the confines of the time period was believable. I enjoyed the sprinkling in pop culture references throughout the books. Soon enough Heddy learns what people project as outward appearances aren’t always what’s beneath the surface. Marriages aren’t perfect, stardom comes with loneliness, men aren’t who they appear to be. This book is a nice escape from everyday life. I look forward to reading more books by the author in the future.
April 23, 2020
Thanks to Gallery Books and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
I was really looking forward to this book, but ultimately it fell flat for me. I loved the 1960s Martha's Vineyard setting and the clothing descriptions but I was bored through most of the book and the characters annoyed me.
Set in 1960s Martha's Vineyard, a scholarship Wellesley girl nannies for a wealthy family, finds out that while you can have money it doesn't mean life is as perfect as it looks from the outside.
I was really looking forward to this book, but ultimately it fell flat for me. I loved the 1960s Martha's Vineyard setting and the clothing descriptions but I was bored through most of the book and the characters annoyed me.
Set in 1960s Martha's Vineyard, a scholarship Wellesley girl nannies for a wealthy family, finds out that while you can have money it doesn't mean life is as perfect as it looks from the outside.
April 13, 2020
If you are looking for a great Women's Historical Fiction Book to take to the beach with you this summer, than this certainly is the book for you.
This is a Throw Back book to take you back to the 60's to the rich and famous of Martha's Vineyard. You get to see how things were in the day thru the eyes of a young lady who made one mistake right before summer break. This mistake started off ruining a perfect summer on Martha's Vineyard!
You will meet 2 girls, Ruth and Heddy who work for a very 'perfect' rich family, or so it would seem. Thru Heddy's eyes, you will see that money certainly doesn't buy you happiness. She meet's up with 2 men who both are intriguing to her in 2 totally different ways.
So, grab this book, read how things were 'back in the day', learn about young love and the decisions that need to be made, fall in love with Teddy and Anna, follow the mystery behind Ash and Sullivan, and decide if Heddy picked the right guy in the end.
This is a Throw Back book to take you back to the 60's to the rich and famous of Martha's Vineyard. You get to see how things were in the day thru the eyes of a young lady who made one mistake right before summer break. This mistake started off ruining a perfect summer on Martha's Vineyard!
You will meet 2 girls, Ruth and Heddy who work for a very 'perfect' rich family, or so it would seem. Thru Heddy's eyes, you will see that money certainly doesn't buy you happiness. She meet's up with 2 men who both are intriguing to her in 2 totally different ways.
So, grab this book, read how things were 'back in the day', learn about young love and the decisions that need to be made, fall in love with Teddy and Anna, follow the mystery behind Ash and Sullivan, and decide if Heddy picked the right guy in the end.
July 27, 2020
This was the perfect Summer escape beach read! Loved the 60s, Martha’s Vineyard setting! I saw that Hilderbrand endorsed this one and I definitely felt that Hilderbrand esq in this book and what I missed from her book this year. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future!
June 13, 2020
Hardy is a lower-class girl on scholarship to Wesllesley when she meets a Harvard boy, flunks a final and loses her scholarship for the 1962-1963 academic year. She becomes a nanny for a rich couple who are summering in Martha’s Vineyard, being drawn to fame and money like moth to a flame. She’s looking for a potential rich husband to either marry or to send her back to school. So basically, Heddy is looking for a sugar daddy, they just happened to call them husbands back then. ANYWAYS. Will Heddy pick the dark, brooding yet classically wealthy Sullivan or will she go with the sunny, slightly sniffy past, Ash? I like how this one focused on how the grass is not always greener on the other side, that it’s more important to foster true connections and how to find the true you. I thought Heddy was kind of a sap at first but she ends up becoming super cool. I loved the imagery and references to the 1960’s, especially with the Kennedys. Personally I liked this one more than I enjoyed Summer of 69.
April 6, 2020
Heddy is a Wellesley student from a working-class Brooklyn family who has landed a summer job as a nanny for an affluent family on Nantucket in 1962. From the moment the ferry docks, she is transported into a world she quickly realizes is not the rosy picture that is seems. Trying to wade through the illusions is further complicated by the loss of her scholarship and she fears her dreams of becoming a writer will be permanently crushed.
As the book progressed, the characters came to life--with all of their flaws, secrets, motives and schemes exposed against the façade created. Heddy's background serves her well in trusting her instincts. Gigi the actress mocked and flaunted the social morays, but even she had her own selfish reasons for befriending the co-ed. By keeping true to her values, Heddy is able to survive in a world sorely lacking them.
Thanks to NetGalley and Gallery for an ARC of this book. My review is voluntary.
As the book progressed, the characters came to life--with all of their flaws, secrets, motives and schemes exposed against the façade created. Heddy's background serves her well in trusting her instincts. Gigi the actress mocked and flaunted the social morays, but even she had her own selfish reasons for befriending the co-ed. By keeping true to her values, Heddy is able to survive in a world sorely lacking them.
Thanks to NetGalley and Gallery for an ARC of this book. My review is voluntary.
June 15, 2020
3.5 stars. This was a pretty good beach read in spite of the last part of the book which came out of left field and didn’t seem to fit the characters. It kinda made me laugh rather than ruining the book for me though. I’m wondering where these people end up after all that! I was reading the ARC so I’m guessing that some inconsistencies with the time period were cleaned up before the final publication (no, you couldn’t call 911 in 1962).
This is the author’s first novel and I’d definitely read her next book. Thanks to Goodreads Giveaways for the ARC.
This is the author’s first novel and I’d definitely read her next book. Thanks to Goodreads Giveaways for the ARC.
July 5, 2020
Great summer beach read. The author of this debut novel has created interesting characters in an intriguing setting and time.
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