Daisy Shoemaker loves to cook and has made a thriving business out of it. She volunteers in her spare time and lives in a beautiful home in the suburbs with her family. At first glance she seems to have it all. But her teenage daughter is sullen, her husband doesn't seem to notice her, and while she has lots of acquaintances, she doesn't have any real connections. Still, compared to most, Daisy knows she’s got it good. So why is she up all night and can't sleep?
For the last little while, Daisy has been receiving emails that are meant for a woman named Diana Starling—her email address is just one punctuation mark away from her own. While Daisy’s driving carpools, Diana is chairing meetings. While Daisy’s making dinner, Diana’s making plans to reorganize corporations. Diana’s glamorous, sophisticated, single-lady life is miles away from Daisy’s simpler existence. And well...isn't the grass always greener on the other side?
When an apology leads to an invitation, the two women meet and become fast friends. But, as they get closer, we learn that their connection was not completely accidental. Who IS this other woman, and what exactly does she want with Daisy?
Do not let the cover fool you. That Summer is not a breezy light beach read, this book has teeth. The #MeToo movement plays a paramount role in this thought-provoking story that is penned with Weiner's acerbic wit and strong characterization. Set in a manicured subdivision in Philadelphia, bustling New York City, and gorgeous Cape Cod, That Summer is more of a contemporary character-driven novel versus chick lit.
My only criticism it that it was a bit bulky and could've been tightened up. All-in-all, a good read and compelling story that is both gutting and powerful. That Summer is not just a twisty tale full of secrets and lies, but a story about the power of female relationships.
JENNIFER WEINER is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of sixteen books, including Good in Bed, In Her Shoes, and her memoir, Hungry Heart: Adventures in Life, Love, and Writing.
She is a graduate of Princeton University and a contributor to the New York Times Opinion section.
Weiner lives with her family in Philadelphia.
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