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Summer of Georgie

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Deep into her 40s with a lackluster career, Georgie wonders how she became so...underwhelming. If she’s not battling her micromanaging boss and egotistical CEO, she’s trying to quiet her inner voice, the one whispering that she hasn’t lived up to the cool, funny and creative person she used to be.

When she's fired for finally pushing back on her CEO’s questionable business practices, Georgie – with the support of her husband and book club friends– uses her free summer to rekindle latent talents and redefine success. But just as she figures out what’s next, an unexpected hurdle threatens to turn her summer of opportunity into a zero-sum disaster.

Summer of Georgie is a fresh and likably snarky take on the “middle age do-over,” with an authentic portrayal of friendship, marriage, motherhood, and that inner critic inside us all.

284 pages, Paperback

Published December 1, 2021

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169 people want to read

About the author

Kerry Crisley

4 books135 followers
I'm a lifelong bookworm who, at the end of 2021, finally crossed "write a novel" off my Bucket List! I read women's fiction, thriller/suspense, memoirs, dystopian fiction, and some YA and fantasy.

My author bio:
Kerry Crisley is a 25+ year veteran of the communications industry. Fiction, however, is her first love; she wrote and directed an original play performed by her second grade classmates, and has been writing ever since. She lives in Wakefield, Massachusetts with her husband, their children, and their (very spoiled) rescue dog. When not at work, Kerry can usually be found reading, hiking, or getting into a wide variety of shenanigans with her book club. Kerry is a current member of the Women's Fiction Writing Association, and also muses about pop culture and wellness on Medium. Summer of Georgie is her first novel.

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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
1 review2 followers
May 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! I had the opportunity to meet Kerry at Molly's Bookstore in Melrose on Independent Booksellers Day, and I was happy to support a local author. I really could relate to Georgie's pronouncement that she felt "underwhelming." Reading this book made me want to have my own summer - I wouldn't end up opening a bar, but it does make me wonder what I would do instead.
Profile Image for Kat.
481 reviews24 followers
April 15, 2022
One Sentence Summary: When 40-something year old Georgie is fired for pushing back at her demanding and questionably ethical boss, she’s given a summer to re-evaluate her life and figure out what will truly make her happy.

Overall
Summer of Georgie is an incredible, smart women’s fiction novel that’s firmly grounded in reality, but offers a wonderfully fun story with lots of humor. It touches on being a mother to a child with autism as well as the very real fears a family goes through when one partner loses a job. It also very much celebrates female friendship, female empowerment, and women going for their dreams. At every step, there’s a healthy dose of reality and setbacks, but I loved how Georgie persevered and was determined to find a way through. There are ups and downs and so much hard work, but Georgie always has her family and friends to rally around her. Summer of Georgie is an incredible novel, and I loved every minute of it.

Extended Thoughts
Georgie is a 40-something wife and mother who has survived for the past 18 months working for the demanding Frank Hudson, of Hudson Hotels. It hasn’t been easy, and her boss, Lena, is no better, but, when Frank openly wants her to lie in order to increase sales on his self-published memoir, Georgie has had enough. Now faced with a whole summer to figure out what’s next for her, she starts to train to do a 100 mile bike ride, an event put on by Hudson Hotels that she signed up for before being fired and decided to still complete. And, with the help of her husband and close group of friends, she forms an idea, but it might be in jeopardy before it can even get off the ground.

I nearly passed on this book because, at the time I received the request, I wasn’t really feeling women’s fiction, but I am so glad I didn’t. This book is an absolute gem for my women’s fiction loving heart. It’s literally everything I love about the genre: the focus on a woman figuring out her life, the strong group of supportive females, the surprisingly complex and realistic men. To say I adored Summer of Georgie would be a massive understatement. I could neither read this fast enough nor slow enough. It’s absolutely delightful and exactly the kind of read I needed both in my reading schedule and the stressful period of my life I’m currently in. But, outside of that, this book ticked all the boxes for me and was just such a fun, smart, witty read.

As women’s fiction, Summer of Georgie absolutely dazzles. I loved that it focused on Georgie and that she had a band of women who were there for her every step of the way. The women were really front and center and it was wonderful to see their close ties and the sheer fun they had together even while discussing more serious things. The women really felt truly empowered in this novel. I loved how they rallied together, but, mostly, I loved how it helped Georgie cement what she wanted to do with her life.

Georgie was such a delight. She’s strong and determined, but definitely doesn’t have all the answers. I really enjoyed reading her process and journey and all the ups and downs. I was excited for her when things were going well and frustrated when wenches were thrown in her path. But Georgie always pushed through. I couldn’t help but admire her. But it wasn’t all just about her. She’s a wife and mother, failing and succeeding at turns. Her husband Dan was delightful in that his character felt real. He was supportive of his wife, but also brought in a healthy dose of reality that helped keep this novel firmly standing on the ground. I loved that, instead of a cookie cutter man who just lets the women in the novel run everything, he felt very life-like and reacted the way I’d expect most husbands to react in the same situations. I also loved Georgie’s kids, Max and Shannon. They felt like ordinary kids, especially in just wanting to spend their summer at home instead of camp, and I loved that they had a close relationship. I did wish to have seen them a little more throughout the story, but I liked that Georgie never neglected being a parent. Most of all, I liked that Max is on the autism spectrum, but he wasn’t portrayed as the stereotypical child with autism. It was never in my face, but instead subtly woven in, clearly painting a picture that not every case is the same. I really liked how it was handled, but do wish both kids had a bigger role.

But, as women’s fiction, Summer of Georgie focused more on Georgie and her group of female friends. I loved all of her friends. They were so much fun and added so much levity and love. They relied on each other and were always there for Georgie. They felt like a real group of friends, each of them with their own fun personality. At first, I did get a few of them mixed up, but as Georgie started interacting more with them one-on-one it became easier to pick them apart. Then there are also the women outside of Georgie’s circle. Most of them were incredible and really wonderful additions, especially one that Georgie meets later in the story (I really loved her to death), though there’s also that female rival. I wouldn’t say she was evil, but I definitely loved hating her. Crisley did an amazing job of making me either love or hate each female in this story, and there are so many I wouldn’t mind calling friend.

Then there’s Gilda, and I really must give her her very own paragraph because she was just so much fun! Gilda is Georgie’s inner voice, and was just such an absolute delight to read. She’s snarky and smart, and knows just how to get Georgie going. I loved Georgie’s conversations with her. They were always a lot of fun, and I really liked how their dialogue shifted throughout the novel. I did miss all the snark as the novel went on, but the relationship between the two was absolute gold and I didn’t even miss the Gilda from the beginning of the novel by the time the story wrapped up. Though it was still a lot of fun to go back and enjoy her snark all over again.

Summer of Georgie is all about Georgie taking the time to figure out her life, to re-envision what she wants, after being laid off from a horrible job. I liked that it wasn’t framed as a mid-life crisis, but as an opportunity given. I liked that Georgie really did try and get a new job, and it was refreshing to watch her think and consider and wonder what would really be best for her and her family. I really loved how her idea came to her and just how grounded in reality the whole process was. Instead of having easy fixes for all the problems and hard work she was faced with, she was forced through the hard work. Summer of Georgie really went into all the background work associated with what Georgie decided to try for, and I really appreciated how realistic it was. It showed the ups and downs, the hopes and failures, the letdowns and the joys. Woven in is also the story of Georgie signing up to do a 100 mile bike ride right before she’s fired, and she decides to go through with it so spends the summer training for it. As her body strengthened, so did her resolve. Georgie really put in a ton of work during one summer, and I found it to be really inspiring.

If there’s any quibble I had with this book, it was that it took a bit of time to really get into Georgie’s plans. I had to keep reminding myself Summer of Georgie is Georgie’s story, her summer and what happens. It’s about a middle-aged woman figuring out what she really wants from life and she has to explore all avenues and how she feels about it all. As much as I wanted the story of her having figured it out to be at the forefront, that was just a part of her story. It was a major part, and definitely my favorite part of it, but I felt this novel was about Georgie, not about her plans. During the first half, I couldn’t quite figure out where the story was going and when or where the problem referenced in the book description was going to be coming from, but, when it hit, I absolutely loved how it played out. I adored how this novel ended. It did seem to happen rather quickly, but I really liked how it was balanced and, like everything else, grounded in reality.

Summer of Georgie is a remarkable novel for so many reasons. I loved how every part of it felt not just real but utterly realistic. I could absolutely believe that Georgie’s story, exactly as written, could be playing out somewhere in the world. At times, I even forgot I was reading a fictional story. Needless to say, story and reality became a bit blurred for me in the best possible way! Summer of Georgie is the kind of women’s fiction I absolutely love. It felt real and grounded and was so smart and fun. I was so sad when I finished the book, and even sadder to find out this appears to be Crisley’s only published work so far.

Thank you to the author, Kerry Crisley, for a review copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
Author 12 books22 followers
July 26, 2022
Humor underlies this fun tale. Poor Georgie feels like a failure in every aspect of her life, and she is searching for meaning in her life outside of the home. The people Georgie works for are difficult. Georgie finally gets let go for refusing to do something unethical. Now she needs another job, but her former employer is playing dirty. This could even affect her future in a big way.

While looking for a job, Georgie gets an idea of how to spend her summer. It would benefit her and allow her to get revenge on her former employer. Can she do it? While out and about, Georgie comes up with another brilliant idea. She’s inspired and discusses her plans with her friends. It is a unique business proposition and really could work. Unfortunately, she has strong forces against her, and this creates good tension in the story.

The characterization is enables readers to really get an understanding of Georgie and the others. Readers can sense who they are and their values. Some of their politics slip in through the dialogue.

For good, escapist reading, why not give this one a try?
Profile Image for Molly.
144 reviews
March 30, 2022
Summertime, books, friends, women helping women. What could we need? Loved it.
Profile Image for Kim.
138 reviews12 followers
April 8, 2022
This book made me smile. A thoroughly enjoyable read and a story that had me cheering for Georgie on every page.
Profile Image for Jenn.
69 reviews
May 14, 2022
You’ll root for the smart and relatable character of Georgie. A 40-something mother who put her career aspirations—and herself—on the back burner in service of her family, she finds herself with the time to ponder “what’s next?” after hitting a creative and professional wall (along with her stifling company’s exit door). I loved that this story mainly centers on Georgie’s quest for professional fulfillment. She is strong and clever and surrounded by a wonderful supporting cast as she taps into what makes her tick. I wish I had a book club around the corner! Bravo Kerry on your first novel!
Profile Image for Kristin  C.
151 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2022
4.5 stars.

40-something Georgie is in a rut. She works for a self-serving narcissist, in a job where she's grossly overqualified and overwhelmingly under-appreciated. A woeful and weary existence… but sadly, not uncommon by any stretch in industries that have been long-dominated by men.

Raise your hand if you've been there? I know I have!

Then suddenly, everything changes and Georgie finds herself mapping out a new existence, channeling her creativity, reigniting her passions.

Summer of Georgie is such a fun (and authentically real) read. And one that will leave you cheering and raising a glass to Georgie and her gal pals!

A great first novel by Kerry Crisley! Kudos, Kerry!
Profile Image for Jen.
556 reviews132 followers
September 28, 2022
Summer of Georgie was a fantastic read. I was rooting for her from page one and LOVED how she handled everything throughout the entire story. I wanted to hug Georgie, I was so proud.

Brilliantly relatable, a perfect any-time-of-year read.
Profile Image for Andrea.
728 reviews20 followers
June 14, 2022
I love finding books with characters who are older! (Translation: my age) We don't have enough stories about women embracing their 40s. And yeah, Georgie is lost when the book starts out, but she finds herself again in the most amazing way. I was so happy for her and rooted for her success the whole way through.

I also loved that these characters were so real. I saw so much of myself in Georgie. I recognized people I know in most of the other characters as well and flashed back to some of my less than stellar job experiences. I think a lot of readers in their 30s and above are going to relate to these characters and the life questions.

The dialogue was snappy and again so real to me. Again, these characters were just so real. I've had those conversations (gestures included) with my friends.

And even though it was all so real to me, it was also a fantastic escape. I didn't want to put the book down and was annoyed when little life events made me do so. (Work? Who wants to do that when you have a great book on hand?) I even see myself rereading this one with my Blondie CDs for accompaniment. And I would love to meet up with these characters again one day!

I received a requested review copy via Goddess Fish. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
269 reviews
April 4, 2022
This debut novel by Kerry Crisley was just what I needed after reading so much nonfiction. It also helped me navigate through a few days of physical pain.
A job for which the protagonist Georgie is overqualified and a terrible boss who does not appreciate her—something that many of us can relate to. Of course, Georgie is fired when she is assertive and refuses to bow down to unreasonable demands. Then you see her being assertive, unleashing her creativity and passion, and forging ahead to grab her dreams.
That and the portrayal of the supporting characters won me over. Her husband Dan seemed very realistic in that although he worries about their finances, he supports her wholeheartedly. Her parents, her friends, and her children are also similar to people you might meet in your everyday life.
A fun read, this book will make you root for Georgie’s success. I enjoyed it more because it is about women helping other women.

Note: I received an advance review copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tim Oleary.
2 reviews1 follower
February 6, 2022
Summer of Georgie is a wonderful book, full of relatable characters and inspiration. The reader follows Georgie as she goes from feeling underwhelmed by her career to formulating her next move empowered by friends. As she proceeds, she is also being pressured by a nasty, egotistical boss who wants to destroy her self image. The ending is sublime. Grab a cup of tea and snuggle down with this GoodRead!!
Profile Image for Kelly.
2 reviews
April 8, 2023
I love when I read a book and find myself absolutely, unequivocally rooting for the protagonist. Georgie could be any one of my closest friends: relatable, funny, devoted to her family. I know I have truly enjoyed a book when I find myself thinking about the characters almost a year later and wondering what they’ve been up to. I would say it’s a must-read for the beach, but why wait? Hoping to see more from this author soon
50 reviews2 followers
February 9, 2022
Georgie is such a fun and relatable character. I enjoyed her snarky inner monologue and became invested in her success right away. I love how she relies on her gut and her tribe to make her way through the bumps in the road. I highly recommend this entertaining story that highlights women helping other women.
90 reviews
February 25, 2022
I found a bit of myself in Georgie, only I wish I was as bold and brave as her. I was routing for her success from the very beginning. And what can I say, I love a happy ending! Great first novel from author Kerry Crisley! I only hope someone turns Georgie’s idea for a bar called Book Club into a real place.
Profile Image for Courtney.
109 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2022
This book was incredible! It had me rooting for the main character from the very beginning. I felt like I could’ve been one of the characters in the book as it so closely mimics the stage of life that I am currently in. I had all the emotions: happiness, sadness, anger, joy, compassion, and most apparent in this novel….. friendship that is everlasting.
Profile Image for Loretta Miles Tollefson.
Author 22 books29 followers
March 10, 2022
A great beach read kind of book about a woman who finds her true north. One of the things I really liked about this story was the way she and her husband interact and work out the issues between them. It's so nice to read a book in which the spouse is not the bad guy. I definitely would recommend this book.
Profile Image for E.D. Hackett.
Author 18 books117 followers
May 4, 2022
This feel-good novel was fun, funny, and heartwarming. You will fall in love with Georgie and her group of girlfriends. Every character was well developed and memorable. Georgie is let go from her job and takes the summer off to find herself, which leads her down a path of new experiences. She is a strong woman that all women will connect with. Great book. I loved it! Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Julie.
13 reviews
February 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book - it was a welcome escape from the craziness of today’s world and a reminder that we all lose our way sometimes and that we don’t have to rediscover it alone. Great flow and many laugh out loud moments!
1 review
February 22, 2022
Intelligent, hysterical, relatable, empowering! Everything I want in a book, in fact. Georgie's wit drew me in, and her journey kept me up late turning pages to see what happened! Such a satisfying story.
2 reviews
February 9, 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. A perfect weekend read. The world needs more Georgies and definitely Book Clubs!
Profile Image for Vicki Frawley.
78 reviews
February 17, 2022
A fun and relatable read for all moms seeking balance and happiness for their kids and themselves. The idea that justice can be served is the icing on the cake. Perfect read to share with a friend!
8 reviews
March 27, 2022
Funny relatable read. This book captures the struggle of honoring your passions and boundaries while keeping up with the pace and pressures of modern life. Georgie’s inner snark kept me laughing!
Profile Image for Ally.
49 reviews1 follower
May 7, 2024
3.75⭐️ rounded up!
Profile Image for Sarita Bhargava.
1 review1 follower
June 14, 2022
Summer of Georgie is about friendship. I really liked the characters and the realness of them. Kerry brings out the best in people. I could not put the book down — it was a perfect slice of life story about believing in yourself with a little help from your friends.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews

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