Exploring the Depths of “Summers at the Saint” by Mary Kay Andrews: A Gripping Saga of Secrets, Betrayal, and Redemption – Book Review @mkayandrews @StMartinsPress @MacmillanAudio

Step into Summers at the Saint: where family legacies, buried secrets, and unexpected romance converge in a gripping narrative.

Acknowledgments:

Thank you to St Martin’s Press, Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for the ARC of the book and audiobook. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

From The Publisher:

Welcome to the St. Cecelia, a landmark hotel on the coast of Georgia, where traditions run deep and scandals run even deeper. . . .

Everyone refers to the St. Cecelia as “the Saint.” If you grew up coming here, you were “a Saint.” If you came from the wrong side of the river, you were “an Ain’t.” Traci Eddings was one of those outsiders whose family wasn’t rich enough or connected enough to vacation here. But she could work here. One fateful summer she did, and married the boss’s son. Now, she’s the widowed owner of the hotel, determined to see it return to its glory days, even as staff shortages and financial troubles threaten to ruin it. Plus, her greedy and unscrupulous brother-in-law wants to make sure she fails. Enlisting a motley crew of recently hired summer help—including the daughter of her estranged best friend—Traci has one summer season to turn it around. But new information about a long-ago drowning at the hotel threatens to come to light, and the tragic death of one of their own brings Traci to the brink of despair.

Traci Eddings has her back against the pink-painted wall of this beloved institution. And it will take all the wits and guts she has to see wrongs put to right, to see guilty parties put in their place, and maybe even to find a new romance along the way. Told with Mary Kay Andrew’s warmth, humor, knack for twists, and eye for delicious detail about human nature, Summers at the Saint is a beach read with depth and heart.

My Thoughts:

In “Summers at the Saint,” Mary Kay Andrews masterfully weaves a tale that transcends typical genre boundaries, blending elements of romance, mystery, and women’s fiction into a captivating narrative. Set against the backdrop of the iconic St. Cecelia hotel, Andrews delves into a world where tradition collides with scandal, and where the past casts a long shadow over the present.

At the heart of the story is Traci Eddings, a widow determined to restore the Saint to its former glory despite facing myriad challenges, from staff shortages to familial betrayal. Andrews’ journalistic background shines through as she skillfully crafts a multi-layered plot filled with twists and turns, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

What sets “Summers at the Saint” apart is its rich cast of characters, each with their own secrets and motivations. Through multiple points of view and a series of well-executed flashbacks, Andrews brings these characters to life, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested in their fates.

But perhaps the true strength of the novel lies in its portrayal of female relationships. From Traci’s bonds with her friends and family to the camaraderie among the Saint’s staff, Andrews captures the power of women supporting women in a way that feels both authentic and uplifting.

The Narration:

I had the pleasure of experiencing the audiobook version of “Summers at the Saint,” narrated by Kathleen McInerney. Her exceptional performance breathed life into Andrews’ characters, providing distinct voices for each and enhancing the overall listening experience.

Final Thoughts:

“Summers at the Saint” is a must-read for fans of women’s fiction and mystery alike. With its compelling storylines, well-developed characters, and evocative setting, it’s a book that lingers in the mind long after the final page is turned. Whether you choose to read the print version or listen to the audiobook, you’re in for a treat.

Some Of The Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written by Mary Kay Andrews:

The Homewreckers

The Newcomer

Hello, Summer