Summer on the Island by Brenda Novak

Disclaimer: I was sent a free book and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.

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I  discovered Brenda Novak a few years back. She is quickly becoming one of my favorite writers as I find I can relate to so many of her characters in small ways. This last book was no different. 

Book Description

A summer of healing, friendship, love...and a secret that could change everything.

After the death of her US senator father, Marlow Madsen travels to the small island off the coast of Florida where she spent summers growing up to help her mother settle the family estate. For Marlow, the trip is a chance to reconnect after too long apart. It’s also the perfect escape to help her feel grounded again--one she’s happy to share with friends Aida and Claire, who are hoping to hit reset on their lives, too.

A leisurely beachfront summer promises the trio of women the opportunity to take deep healing breaths and explore new paths. But when her father’s will reveals an earth-shattering secret that tarnishes his impeccable reputation and everything she thought she knew about her family, Marlow finds herself questioning her entire childhood--and aspects of her future. Fortunately, her friends, and the most unlikely love interest she could imagine, prove that happiness can be found no matter what--as long as the right people are by your side.

About Brenda Novak

Brenda Novak is a New York Times & USA Today bestselling author with more than eight million books in print, translated into twenty different languages. An eight-time Rita nominee, she has won many awards, including the National Reader’s Choice, the Bookseller’s Best, the Book Buyer’s Best, the Daphne and the Silver Bullet. She also runs Brenda Novak for the Cure, a charity to raise money for diabetes research (her youngest son has this disease). To date, she’s raised $2.6 million.

My Thoughts

As with many of Novak's books, this was a quick read because I couldn't put it down. 

First, there was the fact it took place in Florida which is my home state so I was thrilled about that.  But more importantly, she really did a fabulous job writing about MS. As a woman who has lived 30+ years with MS, I was in awe of how well Novak was able to Convey what it is like to live with not just from the personal point of view but also from the family's. I found myself so many times nodding my head or simply crying because she nailed it.

With all that said this book had so many layers. It was a story of friendship, family, love, forgiveness and for added fun a little mystery. 

When Marlow decided to return home to restart her life she takes along 2 friends who need to restart as well. But sometimes to restart or to even change your life you have to face the past and learn to forgive and let go. 

I don't want to give too much away but this book had me taking this journey that left me emotionally exhausted and yet feeling rejuvenated all at once. 

If you are looking for a great way to enjoy your summer days on the beach, lake, or by the pool, this book is a must-read. It will take you on a journey that is unforgettable.