A really lovely story of 3 women with very different parts, Whoop are still trying to deal with the emotions of what has happened. Two best friends met the other main character through a book club, although to be honest the book club is barely mentioned throughout the book. That didn't detect from the story though. I found myself willing the three characters to find happiness and leave the past behind.
A lovely story, I highly recommend.

Oh lawk - the angst, the immaturity, the lack of self-esteem, the whining and whinging! You really do have to grit your teeth with this one.

Susan Mallery’s 'The Summer Book Club' is a heartwarming contemporary novel that thoughtfully delves into themes of new beginnings and tender romance.

The narrative follows three women who, when united by a local book club, forge meaningful connections through their shared passion for reading. As their circle grows, so do their friendships, cultivating a nurturing environment ripe for personal growth and romantic developments. Each character navigates a unique path to reconcile past experiences with future aspirations, all set against the backdrop of a charming rural locale.

Mallery’s inviting prose delivers a delightful and soothing read from beginning to end.

For those seeking a comforting standalone novel that emphasises personal growth and enduring friendships, 'The Summer Book Club' is a great selection.

Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley, for gifting me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Great summer read that had me hooked from beginning to end.

Thank you to NetGalley aan the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Summer Book Club by Susan Mallery and narrated by Tanya Eby is, as the title implies, a perfect summer listen. Relatable in escaping from the troubes of life to books, just books, no aggyness, no drama, no ick of life, just books, books books

It took me a while to settle into the style of the audiobook, but when it clicked, it was perfect. It was a case of adapting to a different style of reading that is well suited to the narrative. It's not my usual genre, but certainly worth trying out

A lovely listen for by the pool, gentle and relatable with a likable cast

Thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollins UK Audio | Mills & Boon, the author Susan Mallery and narrator Tanya Eby for this ALC. My review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own

This is a very sweet and summery listen, I wasn't mad on the narrator but she grew on me over time as I kept going with this audio book. Even though I don't listen to light reads much this passed the time and was enjoyable and would recommend for a light beach read. Thanks to the publisher & netgalley for the audio arc.

3.5 stars
This book played out like a netflix original movie, in the best way. It was really easy to read and a good pass time. It was neither a hit nor a miss, just a pretty solid read.

I loved the "girlhood" aspect of the book as we follow along these women navigating their own personal struggles and coming together to have a great friendship.

The book has a lot of distinct characters that I really loved. I loved that all the girls had their own things going on in the plot and all of these plot points were explored with detail instead of certain parts being brushed over.

The narrator did a really good job at bringing this book to life once i really got into it! At first I was a bit skeptical on whether I would like this narrator's style of reading but I personally really grew to love it

If you're looking for a light and easy read while just chilling out my the sun, I would suggest this.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc!

A Sweet, Summery Listen

I just finished listening to "The Summer Book Club" by Susan Mallery, and if I had to describe it in two words, it would be "Sweet Magnolias." The audiobook has that same warm, small-town feel as the TV show.

The story follows a group of friends who start a summer book club, and their lives intertwine in some pretty heartwarming and sometimes predictable ways. It's a nice, easy listen with some sweet moments and relatable characters.

However, it didn’t completely blow me away. The plot was a bit slow in parts, and I felt like some of the character development could have been deeper. But if you’re looking for a feel-good, summery story, this one’s worth a listen. Perfect for those lazy days when you just want to relax and enjoy some light, charming storytelling.

"The Summer Book Club" by Susan Mallery is the perfect light read for a summer day, focusing on the intricate web of friendships and the power of found family. Laurel, recently divorced and struggling to rebuild her life, and her best friend Paris, who is dealing with past relationship regrets, are set on enjoying a summer of books and wine. Their small, supportive circle becomes even more enriching when they meet Cassie, a woman looking for a fresh start after a string of failed relationships.

Mallery's book beautifully illustrates the strength of female friendships and the healing power of community. As the women share their lives, they inspire each other to take bold steps towards happiness and fulfillment. Despite the lighter, entertaining tone, the novel delves into significant themes of personal growth, making it an engaging and uplifting read. Perfect for those looking for a story about the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of friendship, "The Summer Book Club" is a delightful companion for your summer reading list.

Special thanks to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK Audio, Mills & Boon, and the editorial team for giving me the opportunity to review the ARC in audiobook format and to you, my reader, for taking the time to read this honest personal book review.

If you are interested in other of my book reviews, make sure to follow me on GoodReads! #TheSummerBookClub #NetGalley #LifeLongLearning

A summer of reading and wine is the plan for Laurel and Paris, but more important is their friendship and support. Everyone else chooses to drift away for the summer, but they insist on continuing their group of two during these months. Life still has its issues, after all. When Cassie arrives in town, deflated after another "fixer upper" relationship isn't working, and Life is seemingly passing her by, she spies a job in a wine bar and meets the girls. Two become three, and they help each other navigate the perils of their private lives. Laurel still reeling from a divorce, feels saddened that her daughters feel so negative towards male figures after so many negative experiences, and is reluctant to move beyond friendship even when a good man appears, Paris had a good man and her own poor behaviour and choices ruined their relationship. He is back in town, widowed with a young son. Cassie has spent her life supporting her elder siblings and has neglected her own life story.. She needs to forge her own path. This is a lighthearted listen with some big themes of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth. The book club is the reason for their meeting, but it is secondary to the relationship between the women. A perfect summer holiday listen. #thesummerbookclub #susanmallery #audiobook

What a beautifully written book! This an heart felt work of art. I absolutely love the characters they are so true to life. They have their own individual struggles just like all of us in every day life. This book reminded me of how important self growth is and we hold the keys to our own future. THIS BOOK IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST READ

There is not a lot about the book club and only a couple of mentions of actual books here. It is a story of three women with issues that help each other to get over them. So there is a lot of psychoanalysis as they each try to get to the bottom of their problems and get over them. This is repeated a lot. There are some too good to be true men involved as well, but the women have to get over their issues before they can allow romance in their lives.

The Summer in a Book Shop is a good summer read, full of romance, friendship and books.

The story is about three friends who need friends to help them through this stage of life.

I listened to the audio book and the narrator was really good and every character had a different tone so it was easy to follow. It’s light summer reading, perfect for an afternoon in the sun. A perfect 4 star read.

Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.

EXCERPT: The fortysomething teacher with prematurely gray hair smiled as soon as she saw Laurel.

“You look panicked.”

“I’m having some breathing issues,” Laurel admitted lightly, shaking the other woman’s hand before sitting in the chair next to her desk. “I don’t usually get asked in for either of my girls.”

“That’s right. Jagger has a younger sister.”

“Ariana. She’s ten. She’ll be in middle school next fall.”

“We look forward to having her.” Mrs. Krysty rested her hands on the desk. “I want to start by saying that Jagger’s doing well in all her classes. I spoke to her other teachers myself and they think she’s an excellent student. She’s friendly, cooperative, bright and well-liked.”

The other woman smiled. “She seems to be a natural leader and has no trouble expressing her opinion.”

Laurel told herself to relax, that so far nothing bad was being shared—only she was pretty sure there was a giant “but” in her future.

“There have been a few odd comments,” Mrs. Krysty said slowly.

Odd comments? “About what?”

“It’s more a who.” She paused. “About men, actually.”

“Men? What does that mean?”

“Last week, in her European history class, the teacher showed how the Cold War was linked to World War II and other events of the past hundred years. Jagger said wars were started by men and if they would mind their own business, the world would be a better place.”

Mrs. Krysty offered a faint smile. “Conversation became heated and Jagger and another student got into a shouting match. Jagger told him that men have always subjugated women, that they only care about themselves and not their families, and for him to give her one example of a woman starting a war. Any war.”

“She’s not wrong,” Laurel murmured. “Women haven’t been in power until recently so they couldn’t start wars, but I’m guessing that isn’t your point.”

“No. In her social studies class they were discussing different forms of courtship. How some customs are similar to what we’re familiar with and some are not. The example was that even in modern India, many couples use matchmakers.”

Mrs. Krysty put on her reading glasses and glanced at her notes. “Jagger said she was never getting married because men can’t be trusted and always let you down. Women would be better off living together in groups and only letting in men so they can have babies, then locking them out.”

She dropped her glasses to the desk. “I understand you and Jagger’s father are recently divorced and that’s always traumatic for the children, but this seems like more than that. Jagger seems to dislike and mistrust men.”

“That can’t be true,” Laurel said automatically, as confused by what her daughter meant as by where she’d developed that attitude. “She’s never said anything to me.”

At least she didn’t think she had. It wasn’t as if they sat around discussing gender roles and whether or not men made good fathers in general. She knew Jagger was furious with her dad for leaving and that her oldest had become protective, but not to the point where she didn’t like men.

“What about the male role models in her life?” Mrs. Krysty asked. “How is she getting along with them?”

“Male role models?”

“Male role models?”

“Yes. An uncle, or grandfather. A family friend. Perhaps someone you’re seeing.”

“You mean am I dating? God, no. Not only does love turn women into idiots, the last thing I need in my life is some man screwing up everything that I’ve…” Her voice trailed off as horror swept through her."

ABOUT 'THE SUMMER BOOK CLUB': The rules of summer book club are simple:
• No sad books
• No pressure
• Yessssss, wine!

Besties Laurel and Paris are excited to welcome Cassie to the group. This year, the book club is all about fill-your-heart reads, an escape from the chaos of the everyday—running a business, raising a family, juggling a hundred to-dos. Even the dog is demanding (but the bestest boy).

Since Laurel’s divorce, she feels like the Worst Mom Ever. Her skepticism of men may have scarred her vulnerable daughters. Cassie has an unfortunate habit of falling for ridiculous man-boys who dump her once she fixes them. Paris knows good men exist. She’s still reeling after chasing off the only one brave enough—and foolish enough—to marry her.

Inspired by the heroines who risk everything for fulfillment, Laurel, Paris and Cassie begin to take chances—big chances—in life, in love. Facing an unwritten chapter can be terrifying. But it can be exhilarating, too, if only they can find the courage to change.

MY THOUGHTS: The Summer Book club is not so much about a book club at all! - in fact, the book club itself barely features - it is more about being open to change and second chances.

We all know women like Laurel, Paris and Cassie. Laurel and Paris are long-time friends who accept Cassie into their little group when she moves to Los Lobos from Bar Harbour, Maine. Each of the friends face a 'pivotal moment' in their lives and rely on the good advice and encouragement of the other two to make the right decision.

There are one or two cringeworthy moments (I did - I physically cringed!) and some rather more frequent annoyingly repetitive angst-ridden declarations; but if you can get past these, you'll enjoy the read. Susan Mallery's books are ideal if you are wanting a light read with a guaranteed happy ever after ending.

I enjoyed the diverse characters of the women - there's always someone you can relate to in a Susan Mallery book - and the challenges they faced. Of the three women's stories I enjoyed Laurel's the most. I also enjoyed the thrifting expeditions!

The Summer Book Club didn't set my world on fire but it was an enjoyable, fun and comforting read.

⭐⭐⭐.4

#TheSummerBookClub #NetGalley

THE AUTHOR: Susan grew up in California and now lives in Seattle with her husband. She's passionate about animal welfare, especially that of the two ragdoll cats and adorable poodle who think of her as mom. Her warm, humorous stories make the world a happier place to live.

DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harper Collins UK Audio, Mills & Boon, via NetGalley for providing an audio ARC of The Summer Book Club written by Susan Mallery and narrated by Tanya Eby for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

I just finished reading the book and I think it has a lot of potential. However, I felt that all the female characters had similar attitudes and reactions, which was a bit weird. The three main female characters seemed very insecure, while the male characters were portrayed as perfect, almost too perfect. It seemed like all of the characters fell in love too quickly, even the second chance romance felt rushed considering one of the characters was previously in an abusive relationship.

As for the audiobook, it was okay, but I wish the narrator had used different voices for each character to avoid confusion at the beginning.

Overall, I think this book is perfect if you're looking for something light and fast to read.

Susan Mallery is one of my favorite authors. The Summer Book Club is a perfect beach read.
Laurel, Paris, and Cassie each have so much going in their lives. There is a strong bond between them and having this friendship holds the story all together. These are the friends I would love to have in my life.
The men they have come into their lives fit so perfectly with them. I know that there is a bond that I could feel listening to this book. The chemistry was perfect.
Tanya Eby narrated this audiobook and did a fantastic job.
Thank you NetGalley, Susan Mallery and HarperCollins UK Audio for the Audiobook. This is my personal review.

Three friends, facing their own personal struggles, embrace the escapism of romance novels for their summer book club. As they delve into their favorite stories, they find themselves inspired by the heroines, gaining the courage to confront their own fears and take chances in life and love.

I enjoyed the characters in this romance. The low-angst plot is leisurely. The narration by Tanya Eby was very well done—she’s one of my favorite narrators.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Susan Mallery knows how to write heartwarming stories. The Summer Book Club is the story of best friends Laurel and Paris who are joined by newcomer Cassie. The women get together for a book club, this year its heart warming reads. Although the title is pretty deceptive as the book club isnt a huge part of the story. Each of the women are navigating issues in their lives. Laurel is recently divorced, with an ex who isnt pulling his weight with the children. Its starting to have an effect on her daughters and how they view men. When a teacher suggests a positive male role model in their lives. Laurel looks to find a steady kind and helpful man.
Cassie who is new to the town and friendship group has a habit of picking men who need fixing and fix them, then they leave. When she meets a new guy, one who doesnt need fixing she isnt sure what to do. Cassie desperately tries to sabotage the relationship, will she succeed ?
Then we have Paris, she once had a lovely man in Jonah until she ruined things. Now he is back and she wants to apologise for how she acted. Will she take a chance on romance again ?
I really enjoyed listening to The Summer Book Club, a recommended read for fans of chick lit.
Five stars .

This book had a lovely storyline with the lives of three friends entwined with their romances and families. A trio of slow burning romances with background stories well described. Had I not previously read and enjoyed books by Susan Mallory, I would have been tempted to abandon the book after the first few chapters. Unlike other reviewers, I found the narrator quite wooden and almost robotic. After a while, I got used to her and heard the story rather than her voice. Her diction was certainly clear. and she spoke evenly but I think I’d have got more pleasure from the book if I had read rather than listened to it.

Cassie has always lived in Bar Harbor, Maine. Her life consists of helping her brother and her sister with whatever they need done. Cassie is content and she isn't looking for more in life. She has inherited land and more in California and her siblings made her move across country to find and grow herself into an independent person. Laurel and Paris live in the small town where Cassie is headed. Fate has them meeting and hitting it off. All of them have had disappointing relationships with men.

As they address life issues and lean on each other, their lives get deeper and richer. They all find new or renewed relationships with men. But all of them have issues believing in themselves and their current circumstances.

This is a story about personal growth, love for family, each other, and some special men. A perfect summer read. Susan Mallery tells great stories.

I listened to the audio version of the book. The narrator was great.