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Summertime Guests: A Novel
The Seafarer is the place to see and be seen in the summer...
With its rich history and famous guests, the glamorous hotel is no stranger to drama. But the bustle at the iconic property reaches new heights one weekend in mid-June when Claire O'Dell of Room 1018 falls tragically to her death, the event rippling through the lives of three very different people.
Bride-to-be Riley is at the hotel to plan her wedding. She would have preferred a smaller, more intimate celebration, but her bossy mother-in-law has taken charge and her fianc� hasn't seemed to notice. Jean-Paul, the hotel's manager, is struggling to keep his marriage and new family afloat, but now he must devote all his energy to this latest scandal at work. And then there's Will, whose romantic getaway with his girlfriend has not exactly gone the way he'd hoped and instead has him facing questions he can't bring himself to answer.
Over three sun-drenched days, as the truth about Claire--and the secret she was hiding--is uncovered, these three strangers become linked in the most unexpected of ways. Together, they just might find the strength they need to turn their own lives around.
With its rich history and famous guests, the glamorous hotel is no stranger to drama. But the bustle at the iconic property reaches new heights one weekend in mid-June when Claire O'Dell of Room 1018 falls tragically to her death, the event rippling through the lives of three very different people.
Bride-to-be Riley is at the hotel to plan her wedding. She would have preferred a smaller, more intimate celebration, but her bossy mother-in-law has taken charge and her fianc� hasn't seemed to notice. Jean-Paul, the hotel's manager, is struggling to keep his marriage and new family afloat, but now he must devote all his energy to this latest scandal at work. And then there's Will, whose romantic getaway with his girlfriend has not exactly gone the way he'd hoped and instead has him facing questions he can't bring himself to answer.
Over three sun-drenched days, as the truth about Claire--and the secret she was hiding--is uncovered, these three strangers become linked in the most unexpected of ways. Together, they just might find the strength they need to turn their own lives around.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published April 6, 2021
About the author
Wendy Francis
17 books347 followersWendy Francis is a former book editor (Houghton Mifflin Co.) and the author of Feels Like Summer, Summertime Guests, Best Behavior, The Summer Sail, The Summer of Good Intentions, and Three Good Things. Her new book, Betting on Good, will be out in May 2025. Her essays have appeared in Good Housekeeping, The Washington Post, YahooParenting, The Huffington Post, and WBUR's Cognoscenti. She lives outside of Boston with her husband and 16-year-old son. For events and updates, check out her webpage at www.facebook.com/wendyfrancisauthor or follow her on Instagram @wendyfrancisauthor.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 201 reviews
November 18, 2021
Summertime Guests by Wendy Francis is a women’s fiction title that is peppered with a bit of mystery. The book features many different characters and of course changes the point of view between them.
One weekend in the middle of June The Seafarer hotel in Boston had plenty of guests staying on the premises. However, things take a dark turn when a woman falls to her death at the hotel and an investigation is opened into what led to the occurance.
Riley is at the hotel trying to plan her wedding without her mother in law taking over the occasion. Claire is in search of the next step in her life after she was recently widowed and came across someone from her past. Jason thought his weekend would be a romantic one but it hasn’t gone the way he planned. Then there’s Jean-Paul who is the manager of the hotel and is doing his best to deal with the death.
While I love a book that crosses over and adds a little extra when it comes to the genre Summertime Guests by Wendy Francis to me seemed to do a little too much. This one reminded me quite a bit of another book I read not too long ago that took place at a hotel and had a lot of characters with a lot going on and I felt again as I had with it that I just didn’t connect to anyone. Just a bit too much jumping around with this secret or that one there and it all sort of just begins to blend together instead of stand out. This book was slighty better than the other I had read but it still just came in as an alright story in the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
One weekend in the middle of June The Seafarer hotel in Boston had plenty of guests staying on the premises. However, things take a dark turn when a woman falls to her death at the hotel and an investigation is opened into what led to the occurance.
Riley is at the hotel trying to plan her wedding without her mother in law taking over the occasion. Claire is in search of the next step in her life after she was recently widowed and came across someone from her past. Jason thought his weekend would be a romantic one but it hasn’t gone the way he planned. Then there’s Jean-Paul who is the manager of the hotel and is doing his best to deal with the death.
While I love a book that crosses over and adds a little extra when it comes to the genre Summertime Guests by Wendy Francis to me seemed to do a little too much. This one reminded me quite a bit of another book I read not too long ago that took place at a hotel and had a lot of characters with a lot going on and I felt again as I had with it that I just didn’t connect to anyone. Just a bit too much jumping around with this secret or that one there and it all sort of just begins to blend together instead of stand out. This book was slighty better than the other I had read but it still just came in as an alright story in the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
September 8, 2021
Don't let the cover fool you, this is much more than a breezy summer read.
The story takes place on June 11, 2021 the day a woman fell to her death fell from a balcony at a swanky hotel in Boston. Through flashbacks of days leading up to June 11th, we learn about the hotel manager and guests whose lives became changed that same day.
I enjoyed the drama and unraveling of key characters' backstories. The mystery about the woman's death kept the story engaging. This story is moving and intriguing from beginning to end.
The story takes place on June 11, 2021 the day a woman fell to her death fell from a balcony at a swanky hotel in Boston. Through flashbacks of days leading up to June 11th, we learn about the hotel manager and guests whose lives became changed that same day.
I enjoyed the drama and unraveling of key characters' backstories. The mystery about the woman's death kept the story engaging. This story is moving and intriguing from beginning to end.
May 31, 2021
I have a pile of books I specifically have tagged for summertime and this was one of the first ones I choose for the unofficial kickoff to summer. The weekend was rainy and cold in my part of the world and reading about a tony hotel near glittering waters and its guests basking in the sunshine was just the escape read I wanted.
Riley and Tom. an engaged couple who happen to be planning their reception and wedding details with Tom's mother, Marilyn. They had all the pre-wedding stressors with Marilyn pushing in at every chance. I felt for Riley and appreciated my own MIL for not ever being like Marilyn. I was totally on Riley's side with regard to wedding footwear (as one who wore Keds under her gown, I support Riley's non-traditional shoe choices) and how she ranks "the wedding" and "the marriage" in importance. I enjoyed reading about Riley and Tom's relationship and where they were at the end of the story. They gave me all the feels.
Claire, widowed and having had a leave imposed on her (from her career as a reporter) who is looking to rekindle a romance with a man she jilted 30 years ago. She literally acted like she'd been planning to live out As Time Goes By. I liked reading about her marriage and family life and how she felt at various points and her observations. She was a bit irritating at times but also came through with such incisive conclusions that I had to highlight and have a mindful moment. I mean, there's wisdom to glean from a character who recounts a 30+ year marriage and family life, even if she's a bit messy in the moment.
Jean-Paul is the director of the hotel at its reopening. He is having marital struggles as he & his wife Marie have welcomed their first child, a girl. I enjoyed reading about their perspective simply because I could relate to that stage of marriage. I very much liked the parts where the two were able to see each other as the people they were before the baby and remember to make time for each other. And the part about celebrating life. Loved that.
Jason & Gwen. are a couple on vacation. He a Ph.D. candidate and she an elementary school teacher. They have what I consider to be insurmountable problems and those create a lot of narrative tension throughout the book.
I stayed up until after midnight reading this one and it was worth it. It's a very gripping read. I worked out which character died by the 64% mark but that didn't diminish the remainder because Francis wrote in such an engaging and compelling way. Sure, I wanted to know if I was right but more than anything, I wanted to know what led up to the death and to see how everyone fared by the book's end.
It's sure to be a great beach or book club read and balanced a breezy read with poignance. This is my first read by Wendy Francis and I'd read another.
Recommended.
Riley and Tom. an engaged couple who happen to be planning their reception and wedding details with Tom's mother, Marilyn. They had all the pre-wedding stressors with Marilyn pushing in at every chance. I felt for Riley and appreciated my own MIL for not ever being like Marilyn. I was totally on Riley's side with regard to wedding footwear (as one who wore Keds under her gown, I support Riley's non-traditional shoe choices) and how she ranks "the wedding" and "the marriage" in importance. I enjoyed reading about Riley and Tom's relationship and where they were at the end of the story. They gave me all the feels.
Claire, widowed and having had a leave imposed on her (from her career as a reporter) who is looking to rekindle a romance with a man she jilted 30 years ago. She literally acted like she'd been planning to live out As Time Goes By. I liked reading about her marriage and family life and how she felt at various points and her observations. She was a bit irritating at times but also came through with such incisive conclusions that I had to highlight and have a mindful moment. I mean, there's wisdom to glean from a character who recounts a 30+ year marriage and family life, even if she's a bit messy in the moment.
Jean-Paul is the director of the hotel at its reopening. He is having marital struggles as he & his wife Marie have welcomed their first child, a girl. I enjoyed reading about their perspective simply because I could relate to that stage of marriage. I very much liked the parts where the two were able to see each other as the people they were before the baby and remember to make time for each other. And the part about celebrating life. Loved that.
Jason & Gwen. are a couple on vacation. He a Ph.D. candidate and she an elementary school teacher. They have what I consider to be insurmountable problems and those create a lot of narrative tension throughout the book.
I stayed up until after midnight reading this one and it was worth it. It's a very gripping read. I worked out which character died by the 64% mark but that didn't diminish the remainder because Francis wrote in such an engaging and compelling way. Sure, I wanted to know if I was right but more than anything, I wanted to know what led up to the death and to see how everyone fared by the book's end.
It's sure to be a great beach or book club read and balanced a breezy read with poignance. This is my first read by Wendy Francis and I'd read another.
Recommended.
May 24, 2021
There's an untimely death at the Seafarer Hotel in Boston and this tragic occurrence directly impacts four hotel guests. First there's Riley, who is there with her fiance and her mother-in-law, and much to her chagrin, they are at the hotel for a wedding tasting. Her mother-in-law has pretty much taken over wedding planning and this disturbs Riley. Then there's the new manager of the hotel, Jean-Paul, who is a new father and is struggling to be the best father and husband he can be while also managing this iconic hotel that now has a scandal attached to its name. Then there's Claire, who is recently widowed, and is in town to take a breather, but also she hopes to reconnect with a former flame. Lastly, there's Jason who is on vacation at the hotel with his girlfriend, but things aren't going well mostly because his career is taking a nose dive and he is hiding some secrets from his girlfriend. All four of their issues start to boil over just as there's an alarming death at the hotel. Slowly readers find out the truth in Summertime Guests by Wendy Francis, a beach read mixed with a page-turning mystery.
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
March 16, 2021
This particular week at the newly restored Seafarer Hotel has more than a few interesting guests. Unfortunately for one, one of them loses their lives. As the story is told, the reader meets each of the guests, with hopes of ascertaining what guest died and by what means.
The hotel, first established in 1886, had been closed for several months in order to undergo a major renovation. The guests that visit the Seafarer Hotel are among an elite crowd. Jean-Paul Savant is the manager of the hotel, and is quite proud that the renovations kept historic features, while at the same time, offers the most convenient benefits. This engaging story focuses on four guests.
First, regarding Jean-Paul, he is having marital difficulties with his wife, Marie.
Then we meet Riley and Tom, who are in the midst of planning their wedding. We also have Claire O'Dell, who is visiting Boston with hopes of connecting with a boyfriend named Marty from over thirty years ago. Claire was happily married, and is now widowed. She is hoping to reignite the flame for Marty, as it had never fully extinguished.
Another pair of guests are Gwen and Jason, This should be a relaxing getaway for them, but Jason is trying to find a way to let Gwen know how unhappy he is at his job, all while in the process of trying to earn his PhD. How these guests connect with one another - to the point that one of them falls to their death - is seen as their various points of view and stories are considered.
Summertime Guests provided a fabulous escape and is the perfect book club read, with a nice selection of discussion questions at the back of the book. I loved this story and could imagine myself as a fly on a wall as each guest and their individual stories unfolded. The story flowed quite well from the very beginning, leaving me to guess as to what actually was to occur. Not one of these guests had an easy time of things and I found myself pulled in emotionally all while hoping for the best for them.
Many thanks to Graydon House and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
The hotel, first established in 1886, had been closed for several months in order to undergo a major renovation. The guests that visit the Seafarer Hotel are among an elite crowd. Jean-Paul Savant is the manager of the hotel, and is quite proud that the renovations kept historic features, while at the same time, offers the most convenient benefits. This engaging story focuses on four guests.
First, regarding Jean-Paul, he is having marital difficulties with his wife, Marie.
Then we meet Riley and Tom, who are in the midst of planning their wedding. We also have Claire O'Dell, who is visiting Boston with hopes of connecting with a boyfriend named Marty from over thirty years ago. Claire was happily married, and is now widowed. She is hoping to reignite the flame for Marty, as it had never fully extinguished.
Another pair of guests are Gwen and Jason, This should be a relaxing getaway for them, but Jason is trying to find a way to let Gwen know how unhappy he is at his job, all while in the process of trying to earn his PhD. How these guests connect with one another - to the point that one of them falls to their death - is seen as their various points of view and stories are considered.
Summertime Guests provided a fabulous escape and is the perfect book club read, with a nice selection of discussion questions at the back of the book. I loved this story and could imagine myself as a fly on a wall as each guest and their individual stories unfolded. The story flowed quite well from the very beginning, leaving me to guess as to what actually was to occur. Not one of these guests had an easy time of things and I found myself pulled in emotionally all while hoping for the best for them.
Many thanks to Graydon House and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
April 14, 2021
2.5 rounded up
I think I am going to be a dissenting voice on Summertime Guests. When I was done reading, all I could think was it was fine. The book follows four different characters who are at the Seafarer Hotel in Boston on the day that a woman plunges to her death from one of the balconies. We also get flashbacks of before that day to give more context to each of the characters reason for being at the hotel.
I guess for me, this was more of a "slice of life" book than anything else. I mean that day does help each character somewhat resolve their issues, but I was also let down by this. For example, one of the characters ends up getting her own way regarding her future plans. It made me wonder if she would have been ultimately better off sticking up for what she wanted rather than the convenience of this woman's death. It isn't revealed who died until the end, but it isn't hard to figure out. The "twists" were a bit predictable. Then, the book just ends. I would have liked to see the further after effects of what happened that day.
Would I recommend it? Sure. I mean it was well written and a fairly easy read. I just wanted more from the book.
I think I am going to be a dissenting voice on Summertime Guests. When I was done reading, all I could think was it was fine. The book follows four different characters who are at the Seafarer Hotel in Boston on the day that a woman plunges to her death from one of the balconies. We also get flashbacks of before that day to give more context to each of the characters reason for being at the hotel.
I guess for me, this was more of a "slice of life" book than anything else. I mean that day does help each character somewhat resolve their issues, but I was also let down by this. For example, one of the characters ends up getting her own way regarding her future plans. It made me wonder if she would have been ultimately better off sticking up for what she wanted rather than the convenience of this woman's death. It isn't revealed who died until the end, but it isn't hard to figure out. The "twists" were a bit predictable. Then, the book just ends. I would have liked to see the further after effects of what happened that day.
Would I recommend it? Sure. I mean it was well written and a fairly easy read. I just wanted more from the book.
July 13, 2021
Oh my goodness, what an absolutely enchanting and emotionally impactful story! Summertime Guests, by Wendy Francis, deals with some very deep, weighty topics in a powerful, but sensitive, sobering manner.
This story has a lovely setting and is entirely engaging. It has intriguing characters from all walks of life and all ages and stages, who find themselves at the prestigious Seafarer Hotel for a weekend. Each character has their own story and struggle, a distinguishing relevant and relatable issue that they are facing. The story they each share is stirring and thought-provoking.
Summertime Guests has a mystery as it’s driving force, but truly, it’s the characters who are at the heart of this story. And the tale that is told is poignant, thoughtful and insightful, and will long stay with me.
This story has a lovely setting and is entirely engaging. It has intriguing characters from all walks of life and all ages and stages, who find themselves at the prestigious Seafarer Hotel for a weekend. Each character has their own story and struggle, a distinguishing relevant and relatable issue that they are facing. The story they each share is stirring and thought-provoking.
Summertime Guests has a mystery as it’s driving force, but truly, it’s the characters who are at the heart of this story. And the tale that is told is poignant, thoughtful and insightful, and will long stay with me.
June 12, 2021
This was labeled as a thrilling mystery. They lied. :(
August 4, 2023
This wasn't bad, it just wasn't for me.
I thought it would be more of a cozy mystery at a beach club and it ended up being more of a (multiple) family drama with a side of mystery?
Not really what I was looking to enjoy when I picked it up.
Much love to HTP Books for my ARC.
I thought it would be more of a cozy mystery at a beach club and it ended up being more of a (multiple) family drama with a side of mystery?
Not really what I was looking to enjoy when I picked it up.
Much love to HTP Books for my ARC.
July 13, 2023
okay the concept for a twisted beach read was definitely there!! just was not intriguing enough to keep the reader’s interest all throughout. really just a small book of life stories, with little to resolve.
February 19, 2021
4.5/5
When I started this one I was in the mood for a book that would provide a true escape and this totally fit the bill. Set in Boston at the famed Seafarer Hotel it follows four couples both before, after and during the time that one of them falls to their death. It was just the type of juicy, slightly scandalous book I was craving.
I love an ensemble cast, especially when they’re all seemingly unconnected at first glance and this one delivered. Riley and Tom are at the hotel planning their future wedding when tragedy strikes. Claire is a widow in town hoping to reconnect with an old boyfriend, Jean Paul is the hotel manager and Gwen and Jason are on a romantic getaway for his birthday. Every single one of them has issues and messy aspects of their lives and I was invested in their various dramas and problems. You don’t find out who died until the very end and I liked this mysterious addition to a fun plot. For awhile I assumed who had passed away, then I was like, wait no it was this person, only to go back and forth several times. A delicious read and only I definitely recommend adding to your spring/summer TBR! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
When I started this one I was in the mood for a book that would provide a true escape and this totally fit the bill. Set in Boston at the famed Seafarer Hotel it follows four couples both before, after and during the time that one of them falls to their death. It was just the type of juicy, slightly scandalous book I was craving.
I love an ensemble cast, especially when they’re all seemingly unconnected at first glance and this one delivered. Riley and Tom are at the hotel planning their future wedding when tragedy strikes. Claire is a widow in town hoping to reconnect with an old boyfriend, Jean Paul is the hotel manager and Gwen and Jason are on a romantic getaway for his birthday. Every single one of them has issues and messy aspects of their lives and I was invested in their various dramas and problems. You don’t find out who died until the very end and I liked this mysterious addition to a fun plot. For awhile I assumed who had passed away, then I was like, wait no it was this person, only to go back and forth several times. A delicious read and only I definitely recommend adding to your spring/summer TBR! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
June 5, 2021
This book is set at a glamorous hotel by the ocean. It is a little bit of a mystery because it starts with a death in the first chapter. A woman plummets to her death from a hotel balcony. A bunch of guests is at the hotel for a long summer weekend. They're in various places in the hotel and in their relationship when this woman falls. And we don't know why. This event propels the storyline along and impacts the lives of four different people: Riley is planning her wedding, Jean-Paul is the manager who is struggling with his wife and family, Claire has lost her husband, and Jason, who is supposed to be on a romantic getaway that isn't working. As we find out the dead woman's truth (and secrets), these four lives intertwine.
Even though the story takes place over one long weekend, there are many flashbacks, especially for Claire, to what her life was like before her husband died and all the characters trying to understand how they’ve gotten to where they are. I was very interested in the way the author played with time and chronology.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/wen...
Even though the story takes place over one long weekend, there are many flashbacks, especially for Claire, to what her life was like before her husband died and all the characters trying to understand how they’ve gotten to where they are. I was very interested in the way the author played with time and chronology.
To listen to my interview with the author, go to my podcast at:
https://zibbyowens.com/transcript/wen...
July 26, 2023
Quick read with a twist of an ending. Defense enjoyed
September 5, 2021
A plunge to death at the Seafarer Hotel. That impacted four hotel guests. Riley planning her wedding with her MIL, then the new manager and father Jean-Paul who had to manage this scandal. Then there was Claire, recently widowed, followed by Jason who vacationing with his girlfriend.
Many issues started happening with all the four characters. The prose progressed slowly as many truths were unfurled. The entire atmosphere set by author Wendy Francis was captivating. I liked how their issues got resolved over the pages. The author dealt with them quite sensitively.
Overall, some topics were thought-provoking. It had mystery in its core but was a character driven story. Quite an engaging read.
Many issues started happening with all the four characters. The prose progressed slowly as many truths were unfurled. The entire atmosphere set by author Wendy Francis was captivating. I liked how their issues got resolved over the pages. The author dealt with them quite sensitively.
Overall, some topics were thought-provoking. It had mystery in its core but was a character driven story. Quite an engaging read.
April 5, 2021
Summertime Guests is a wonderfully entertaining read and kept me captivated from start to finish. It's not all light and sunny, as at the center of Wendy Francis' story is a death and Francis keeps the reader guessing who has perished well into the novel. We also don't know if it's an accident or well, murder.
The story focuses on four people and through their eyes come to know their partners and family members in relation to the Seafarer hotel in Boston. Starting with the newly engaged Riley as she reflects on the development of her relationship with Tom and the many wedding ceremony choices her to be mother-in-law has opinions on. This leaves Riley feeling at odds with Tom, whom she deeply loves, but his lack on involvement is unsettling. The Seafarer GM, Jean-Paul, is quickly ensconced in the accident that leaves one guest dead, and finds himself reflecting on the disconnect with his wife, who is struggling as a new mother. Another young couple is spending the weekend as guests to celebrate a birthday. Jason though is keeping some secrets from Gwen and she's feeling it. Finally, the weeklong guest Claire O'Dell is trying to reconnect an old flame and as she re-lives memories of her marriage and her long ago first love, comparing the two building up the nerve to contact this ex.
I really enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and quickly found myself very invested in the circumstances that brings them to the Seafarer. The story is perfectly paced and well-plotted, with a few gotcha's. This is the second book by Wendy Francis that I've read. Just like Best Behavior Best Behavior, Francis gifts the reader with characters that are relatable and situations that intrigue. 5 Stars and recommendation!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
The story focuses on four people and through their eyes come to know their partners and family members in relation to the Seafarer hotel in Boston. Starting with the newly engaged Riley as she reflects on the development of her relationship with Tom and the many wedding ceremony choices her to be mother-in-law has opinions on. This leaves Riley feeling at odds with Tom, whom she deeply loves, but his lack on involvement is unsettling. The Seafarer GM, Jean-Paul, is quickly ensconced in the accident that leaves one guest dead, and finds himself reflecting on the disconnect with his wife, who is struggling as a new mother. Another young couple is spending the weekend as guests to celebrate a birthday. Jason though is keeping some secrets from Gwen and she's feeling it. Finally, the weeklong guest Claire O'Dell is trying to reconnect an old flame and as she re-lives memories of her marriage and her long ago first love, comparing the two building up the nerve to contact this ex.
I really enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and quickly found myself very invested in the circumstances that brings them to the Seafarer. The story is perfectly paced and well-plotted, with a few gotcha's. This is the second book by Wendy Francis that I've read. Just like Best Behavior Best Behavior, Francis gifts the reader with characters that are relatable and situations that intrigue. 5 Stars and recommendation!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
June 11, 2022
Fast read.
July 14, 2023
Summertime books like these are my kryptonite this time of year. I jumped on this when I saw it as Kindle deal in June. What's a more perfect way to start your summer reading than with a sunny cover like this and the description of a woman falling from her balcony at a storied Boston hotel?! Unfortunately by the end, I was not as impressed as I was hoping to be.
Summertime Guests starts out with several main players: Riley, a young bride-to-be attending a tasting at the historic Seafarer Hotel with her fiancé and future mother-in-law; the hotel's overworked French manager, Jean-Paul; a young academic couple on a birthday trip, Jason and Gwen; and an older woman on a mysterious mission from her past, Claire. I admired the way the author tried to show different stages of love by intertwining these characters together as you try to solve the mystery of who fell to their death on that fateful Friday in June. Unfortunately, I did not feel like they came together all that well. I was mildly entertained by their storylines but I was ultimately indifferent to them all by the end. I actually found it quite sad how everything transpired. It is not the best thing to do, but I found myself comparing this to Elin Hilderbrand's The Hotel Nantucket. I wish that the Seafarer played a bigger part in the story along with the guests. . Overall an ok read for a few summer days.
Summertime Guests starts out with several main players: Riley, a young bride-to-be attending a tasting at the historic Seafarer Hotel with her fiancé and future mother-in-law; the hotel's overworked French manager, Jean-Paul; a young academic couple on a birthday trip, Jason and Gwen; and an older woman on a mysterious mission from her past, Claire. I admired the way the author tried to show different stages of love by intertwining these characters together as you try to solve the mystery of who fell to their death on that fateful Friday in June. Unfortunately, I did not feel like they came together all that well. I was mildly entertained by their storylines but I was ultimately indifferent to them all by the end. I actually found it quite sad how everything transpired. It is not the best thing to do, but I found myself comparing this to Elin Hilderbrand's The Hotel Nantucket. I wish that the Seafarer played a bigger part in the story along with the guests. . Overall an ok read for a few summer days.
March 4, 2021
I don’t normally read two books at once but I got myself into a heavy book and I wanted to mix something lighter in. The other book is a book I feel like I should read, this is the book I’ve truly enjoyed reading. I probably would have torn through this book in one day if I’d picked it up on a Saturday and not been reading anything else. There’s no delay before this book pulls you in. It pulled me in right from the beginning and had my attention the whole time. Last night I had to put it down to finish dinner, knowing there was only a half hour or so left to read. It wasn’t easy. I picked the book back up first thing this morning.
A glamour hotel has had some work done and is reopening.
At the hotel this week is a the hotel manager Jean-Paul. He’s been working a lot of hours to guarantee the success of the hotel but feels terrible for not spending more time with his wife and baby daughter. He can see how stressed his wife is.
Riley and her fiancée and his mother are visiting the hotel to decide whether to hold their wedding there. Riley and her fiancée seem like a very happy couple, excited about their future together. They are just walking a line right now trying to figure out how much to let his mom plan for the wedding.
Jason and his girlfriend are there for his birthday. Jason thinks his girlfriend is too good for him and I agree. He’s got a lot of issues and they’re putting a major strain on his relationship and his life.
Claire lost her husband less than a year ago and comes to town to see her old boyfriend. She dreams of rekindling their relationship.
At the start of this book, someone falls (or was pushed) from their balcony. As you read the book, you dig into the mystery of who died and how.
It could easily have been one of two women and I kept guessing The Who and how all the way till the end.
Despite the death, this is not a scary book. It’s a book with well written characters, with interesting back stories, it’s set at a beautiful hotel we’d probably all like to be at, the element of the mysterious death adds extra intrigue to the plot.
I really enjoyed this book and I also previously enjoyed this author’s book The Summer Sail. She’s becoming a must read author for me.
I got to read an early ebook edition from NetGalley, thank you!
A glamour hotel has had some work done and is reopening.
At the hotel this week is a the hotel manager Jean-Paul. He’s been working a lot of hours to guarantee the success of the hotel but feels terrible for not spending more time with his wife and baby daughter. He can see how stressed his wife is.
Riley and her fiancée and his mother are visiting the hotel to decide whether to hold their wedding there. Riley and her fiancée seem like a very happy couple, excited about their future together. They are just walking a line right now trying to figure out how much to let his mom plan for the wedding.
Jason and his girlfriend are there for his birthday. Jason thinks his girlfriend is too good for him and I agree. He’s got a lot of issues and they’re putting a major strain on his relationship and his life.
Claire lost her husband less than a year ago and comes to town to see her old boyfriend. She dreams of rekindling their relationship.
At the start of this book, someone falls (or was pushed) from their balcony. As you read the book, you dig into the mystery of who died and how.
It could easily have been one of two women and I kept guessing The Who and how all the way till the end.
Despite the death, this is not a scary book. It’s a book with well written characters, with interesting back stories, it’s set at a beautiful hotel we’d probably all like to be at, the element of the mysterious death adds extra intrigue to the plot.
I really enjoyed this book and I also previously enjoyed this author’s book The Summer Sail. She’s becoming a must read author for me.
I got to read an early ebook edition from NetGalley, thank you!
February 22, 2021
I received a gifted ARC from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
A bustling, glamorous Boston hotel is rocked by the death of a guest, as the stories of four very different guests are twined together.
Although a mysterious death is at the heart of this story, it does not read like a mystery novel. Instead, Francis performs a sweeping character study of four very different people who were all gathered at the Seafarer that afternoon. I enjoyed trying to figure out who the victim was; the trail of breadcrumbs (and red herrings) was well-crafted. In a larger view, though, I felt that the guests were more caricature than character: Jean-Paul the Frenchman, who ruminates on descriptions of life in Paris that could only lead me to believe that the author has never been to Paris (having lived there myself, I'm a little biased); Riley the tomboy bride who works at a flower shop and yet somehow can afford a wedding at the poshest hotel in town; Clare the 61-year-old widow who was written more as a doddering 91; and Jason, the bad guy who's convinced himself he's not so bad. In a novel that sacrifices plot propulsion in favor of character development, I would have liked to see a little more... character development.
I will say that this book was an easy, breezy, sunny read. If you're looking for a beach read with a dollop of drama and more than a whiff of scandal, pick up Summertime Guests when it releases on April 6.
A bustling, glamorous Boston hotel is rocked by the death of a guest, as the stories of four very different guests are twined together.
Although a mysterious death is at the heart of this story, it does not read like a mystery novel. Instead, Francis performs a sweeping character study of four very different people who were all gathered at the Seafarer that afternoon. I enjoyed trying to figure out who the victim was; the trail of breadcrumbs (and red herrings) was well-crafted. In a larger view, though, I felt that the guests were more caricature than character: Jean-Paul the Frenchman, who ruminates on descriptions of life in Paris that could only lead me to believe that the author has never been to Paris (having lived there myself, I'm a little biased); Riley the tomboy bride who works at a flower shop and yet somehow can afford a wedding at the poshest hotel in town; Clare the 61-year-old widow who was written more as a doddering 91; and Jason, the bad guy who's convinced himself he's not so bad. In a novel that sacrifices plot propulsion in favor of character development, I would have liked to see a little more... character development.
I will say that this book was an easy, breezy, sunny read. If you're looking for a beach read with a dollop of drama and more than a whiff of scandal, pick up Summertime Guests when it releases on April 6.
September 1, 2021
This was an easy and quick read. I didn’t care for the ending and it seems the book ended kind of fast. Also- three times in the book the author says “I could care less” - this drives me nuts when there are editing and grammar issues!! Should be “I couldn’t care less”. What happened to editing?
May 19, 2021
Wendy Francis writes the most wonderfully layered page-turners full of depth, drama and intrigue and in Summertime Guests she deftly explores the secrets we keep, the lengths we go for the ones we love and the joys and frustrations of relationships with candor, wit and plenty of flair.
The Seafarer is a glamorous Boston hotel with the most exclusive of clientele. Nothing shocks or surprises the staff working at The Seafarer, but during one weekend in June perfectly plucked eyebrows will be raised and jaws will hit the floor when someone falls tragically to their death, an event that will have serious repercussions and unprecedented consequences for four very different people…
Riley is at the hotel planning her wedding. Riley had always dreamed of a small and intimate wedding with close family and friends only, but unfortunately her mother in law has taken over and is insisting on doing everything her way without even bothering to consult the bride and groom. With Riley’s fiancé completely oblivious to his mother’s bossiness and intransigence, Riley begins to wonder whether she should put her foot down once and for all…and whether it’s not too late to change her mind. Meanwhile, the hotel’s manager Jean-Paul is at his wits end. He doesn’t know how much longer he can continue juggling all of his duties and commitments. With his marriage and family to worry about, the last thing he wants or needs is further complications, but this accident at the hotel demands his full attention, but at what cost?
Claire is a widow who has come to town to connect with a long-lost love. Claire cannot help but wonder whether this is the new beginning she had been hoping for for so long or whether too much water has flown under the bridge and she should resign herself to the fact that some things should be left in the past. And then there’s Jason who had come to the Seafarer for a romantic getaway and ended up forced to answer some very difficult questions.
As these four strangers find themselves linked in the most unexpected of ways, they realize that they need to put their trust in one another and figure out a way to turn their lives around. But is it already far too late? Or will there be further surprises in store for them all?
A stylish, entertaining and thought-provoking novel that is highly addictive and immensely enjoyable, Wendy Francis’ Summertime Guests is a captivating tale that will keep readers gripped throughout. Wendy Francis certainly knows how to keep her readers turning the pages of her novel by creating a glamorous and luxurious world readers will love to escape into peopled with fascinating and intriguing characters whose stories will shock, surprise and keep them reading all through the night.
Sharp, sparkling and compulsively readable, Wendy Francis hits all the right notes with her latest novel, Summertime Guests.
The Seafarer is a glamorous Boston hotel with the most exclusive of clientele. Nothing shocks or surprises the staff working at The Seafarer, but during one weekend in June perfectly plucked eyebrows will be raised and jaws will hit the floor when someone falls tragically to their death, an event that will have serious repercussions and unprecedented consequences for four very different people…
Riley is at the hotel planning her wedding. Riley had always dreamed of a small and intimate wedding with close family and friends only, but unfortunately her mother in law has taken over and is insisting on doing everything her way without even bothering to consult the bride and groom. With Riley’s fiancé completely oblivious to his mother’s bossiness and intransigence, Riley begins to wonder whether she should put her foot down once and for all…and whether it’s not too late to change her mind. Meanwhile, the hotel’s manager Jean-Paul is at his wits end. He doesn’t know how much longer he can continue juggling all of his duties and commitments. With his marriage and family to worry about, the last thing he wants or needs is further complications, but this accident at the hotel demands his full attention, but at what cost?
Claire is a widow who has come to town to connect with a long-lost love. Claire cannot help but wonder whether this is the new beginning she had been hoping for for so long or whether too much water has flown under the bridge and she should resign herself to the fact that some things should be left in the past. And then there’s Jason who had come to the Seafarer for a romantic getaway and ended up forced to answer some very difficult questions.
As these four strangers find themselves linked in the most unexpected of ways, they realize that they need to put their trust in one another and figure out a way to turn their lives around. But is it already far too late? Or will there be further surprises in store for them all?
A stylish, entertaining and thought-provoking novel that is highly addictive and immensely enjoyable, Wendy Francis’ Summertime Guests is a captivating tale that will keep readers gripped throughout. Wendy Francis certainly knows how to keep her readers turning the pages of her novel by creating a glamorous and luxurious world readers will love to escape into peopled with fascinating and intriguing characters whose stories will shock, surprise and keep them reading all through the night.
Sharp, sparkling and compulsively readable, Wendy Francis hits all the right notes with her latest novel, Summertime Guests.
April 6, 2021
Oh, my! I don’t even know where to start gushing about how good this book was! The story of a luxurious hotel in Boston Harbor is one that took me to a world of wealth and relationship problems. The new manager of the hotel, Jean-Paul, has arrived from Europe and is settling into the job but has left his wife and baby daughter in the dust while he chases the dream of success. Claire O’Dell is a new widow who wants to meet up with her former high school love and hopefully reconnect. Jason and Gwen are a power couple who enjoy spending time together on the tennis courts, but both have secrets that could mean the end of their courtship. Finally, there is young Riley, engaged to Tom and meeting her mother-in-law at The Seafarer in order to decide if this luxury hotel is the right place for her and Tom to get married. The four couples were all magnetically attractive, but the way the story was told, jumping from one couple to another, made me want to keep reading to find out what happened to each. Each one was well-developed, with intriguing descriptions of their relationship and the underlying problems. My favorite couple was Riley and Tom because they were the ones with the most at stake by having The Seafarer as their wedding venue. Of course, I didn’t like Tom’s mother much because she was very pushy and not very thoughtful about Riley’s wishes for her own wedding. Watching the relationships develop was very entertaining! The plot was a complex one, with four couples, each with problems and each with secrets and some lack of communication between them. I enjoyed the fascinating characters studies and the brilliantly written plot that was so well crafted. This was not a typical beach read because it had me on the edge of my seat in many parts, especially at the beginning when we know someone has died and at the end when it is ultimately revealed the identity of this unlucky guest. Fans of contemporary fiction will enjoy this spiraling and captivating book!
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
Disclaimer
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255, “Guides Concerning the Use of Testimonials and Endorsements in Advertising.”
April 26, 2021
This book made me nostalgic for my time living in Boston! I felt like I was on vacation with the guests as they explored the city, and I loved that. Really great descriptions of place. I especially liked the description of the train ride.
A book about relationships, but also with some mystery. I have to say the book had me guessing, or I should say, with many chapters I thought "oh, I totally know how this ends" but I was not correct on almost any account, which I liked. Clever way of unfolding the story. Its hard to say more without giving the book away so I will stop there : )
A book about relationships, but also with some mystery. I have to say the book had me guessing, or I should say, with many chapters I thought "oh, I totally know how this ends" but I was not correct on almost any account, which I liked. Clever way of unfolding the story. Its hard to say more without giving the book away so I will stop there : )
April 11, 2021
I loved her last year's book and I liked this one.
Wendy Francis has a very talented way of writing, you feel as though you are in the book with the characters, because it's so vivid.
I really enjoyed it and it was meaty and piece of fluff at the same time. I didn't love the ending, It ended a little to abruptly for me, But I still enjoyed the book.
I can't wait to read her next years book.
Wendy Francis has a very talented way of writing, you feel as though you are in the book with the characters, because it's so vivid.
I really enjoyed it and it was meaty and piece of fluff at the same time. I didn't love the ending, It ended a little to abruptly for me, But I still enjoyed the book.
I can't wait to read her next years book.
February 1, 2022
Perfectly amusing audiobook to pass some time. Some Boston details were a little incongruous - how would Winston Churchill stay in this hotel when the Seaport wasn’t developed until more recently?
April 3, 2022
3.5 stars. Kind of slow, but a lot to unpack and think about
March 3, 2023
2.5⭐️
July 4, 2021
3.5 stars. Easy read, without being hokey. Good underlying mystery to keep the pages turning. Recommend for vaca reading.
March 31, 2021
This novel is a mystery, though not written in the usual way you would expect a mystery to be written. From the start the reader will be second-guessing who fell from a balcony at the prestigious Seafarer Hotel in Boston. Was she pushed, or did she fall? There’s potential for it to be a couple women! The descriptions of the characters and the hotel make you feel like you are right there with all the characters. I love how the author brought strangers together by making their connection be a hotel. I recommend adding this book to your list. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 18, 2021
Tucking in the holiday pile with Elin Hilderbrand and other Southern heroes because Wendy Francis deserves to be up there with the best!
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