March 14, 2022

The Summer Getaway by Susan Mallery is a clever and honest family drama/fiction novel. It focuses on second chances and standing up for oneself.

I know, that makes it sound like it is a heavy read but it isn’t. It is more like watching your favorite tv show or a chick flick. You know, where you just jump in and go for the ride?

Robyn is everything to everybody. But four years after her divorce, she feels stagnant, which is hardly surprising. Why?

First off, her ex’s choice for a girlfriend has a disturbing connection to the family. Then her daughter is a bridezilla. In all, there are too many demands on Robyn.

As to the first one there, I don’t want to give that away, but it was a legit laugh-out-loud moment for me. It really set the tone for Robyn’s attitude the rest of the book.

I think any woman of a certain age will relate to Robyn wanting to do more for herself. Having to put others first for so long can make one go a little mad and want to toss it all away.

This was the aspect of the story that I enjoyed the most. As a result of the pressures, Robyn tries to get away from it all.

I especially liked how Robyn sees great-aunt Lillian as a free spirit to mimic. But this can also be a case of “be careful what you wish for.” Really, can one be too “free?”

And what happens when the rest of the family realizes they can’t do without Robyn, bringing their drama to rain down on her blissful dreamlike existence with Lillian?

Haven’t we all been there? Where we just want to be alone, but family intrudes?

Honestly, I’m not sure what else I can say about The Summer Getaway without giving anything away (see what I did there?)

There are times the family drama seems almost too contrived. None of the male characters are as developed as they could be. Unfortunately, they seem very cookie-cutter compared to other characters.

The Summer Getaway is a book that doesn’t require a lot of thought. Just go for the ride and be entertained by Susan Mallery’s writing talents.

If you are looking for more from this author, try these as well: The Vineyard at Painted Moon; The Friendship List; The Stepsisters.