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The Summer House
The Summer House weaves Lauren K. Denton’s inviting Southern charm around a woman’s journey to find herself.
Sometimes it takes losing everything to find yourself again.
Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated, but a flyer at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community provides a refuge while she contemplates her next steps.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where residents share town gossip, as well as a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far.
“The perfect summer read! While following the endearing relationship between Rose Carrigan and Lily Bishop, Denton introduces readers to the utterly charming town of Safe Harbor. Situated on the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’ll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends—you won’t want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.” —Katherine Reay, bestselling author of The Printed Letter Bookshop and Dear Mr. Knightley
Sometimes it takes losing everything to find yourself again.
Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated, but a flyer at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community provides a refuge while she contemplates her next steps.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where residents share town gossip, as well as a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far.
“The perfect summer read! While following the endearing relationship between Rose Carrigan and Lily Bishop, Denton introduces readers to the utterly charming town of Safe Harbor. Situated on the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’ll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends—you won’t want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.” —Katherine Reay, bestselling author of The Printed Letter Bookshop and Dear Mr. Knightley
352 pages, Hardcover
First published June 2, 2020
About the author
Lauren K. Denton
7 books1,895 followersSouthern grit and grace + humor, hope, and love
Lauren K. Denton is the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts bestselling author of THE HIDEAWAY, HURRICANE SEASON, GLORY ROAD, THE SUMMER HOUSE, THE ONE YOU'RE WITH, and A PLACE TO LAND.
Her books have received widespread accolades, including...
*Women.com's Most Anticipated Summer Beach Reads
*Travel + Leisure's 20 Most Anticipated Books for Summer 2021
*Southern Living's 25 Beach Reads Perfect for Summer and Best Spring Break Reads
*Starred reviews from Publisher's Weekly
*PopSugar's Best 20 Destination Romance Novels
*Deep South Magazine's Spring/Summer Reading Lists
*Woman's World Book Club's Week's Best Fiction
*BuzzBooks Spring/Summer Great Reads
*Travel + Leisure 10 Spring Reads That Will Make Winter a Distant Memory
Combining a love of Deep South settings, a generous dose of Southern flavor and humor, and heartwarming romance, Lauren pens stories that chronicle women’s journeys towards truth and love, hope and healing.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Lauren now lives with her husband and two daughters in Homewood, just outside Birmingham. In addition to her fiction, she writes a monthly newspaper column about life, relationships, and how funny (and hard) it is to be a parent. Though her husband tries valiantly to turn her into a mountain girl, she'd still rather be at the beach with her family and a stack of books.
Visit Lauren at www.laurenkdenton.com,
instagram.com/laurenkdentonbooks/
facebook.com/LaurenKDentonAuthor
twitter.com/LaurenKDenton,
Lauren K. Denton is the USA Today, Wall Street Journal, and Amazon Charts bestselling author of THE HIDEAWAY, HURRICANE SEASON, GLORY ROAD, THE SUMMER HOUSE, THE ONE YOU'RE WITH, and A PLACE TO LAND.
Her books have received widespread accolades, including...
*Women.com's Most Anticipated Summer Beach Reads
*Travel + Leisure's 20 Most Anticipated Books for Summer 2021
*Southern Living's 25 Beach Reads Perfect for Summer and Best Spring Break Reads
*Starred reviews from Publisher's Weekly
*PopSugar's Best 20 Destination Romance Novels
*Deep South Magazine's Spring/Summer Reading Lists
*Woman's World Book Club's Week's Best Fiction
*BuzzBooks Spring/Summer Great Reads
*Travel + Leisure 10 Spring Reads That Will Make Winter a Distant Memory
Combining a love of Deep South settings, a generous dose of Southern flavor and humor, and heartwarming romance, Lauren pens stories that chronicle women’s journeys towards truth and love, hope and healing.
Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Lauren now lives with her husband and two daughters in Homewood, just outside Birmingham. In addition to her fiction, she writes a monthly newspaper column about life, relationships, and how funny (and hard) it is to be a parent. Though her husband tries valiantly to turn her into a mountain girl, she'd still rather be at the beach with her family and a stack of books.
Visit Lauren at www.laurenkdenton.com,
instagram.com/laurenkdentonbooks/
facebook.com/LaurenKDentonAuthor
twitter.com/LaurenKDenton,
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 785 reviews
January 23, 2020
Lily Bishop's husband leaves her one day out of the blue. She wakes up to find a note and divorce papers on the counter. He has left, leaving all his belongings behind. Lily is devastated but by chance sees a flyer at a local grocery store advertising for a hair stylist
Rose Carrigan runs the retirement community where Lily applies for the job as being a hair stylist. She is known for running a tight ship, keeping others at arm’s length, and yet she sees something in the younger woman and knows she must hire her and allow her to live over the salon. She even enlists her nephew and his friend to help Lily move.
Soon, Lily becomes a part of the "active" community and learns about the community members, their lives and is told all the local gossip. She also begins to heal after being left high and dry and begins to form a friendship with Rose's nephew.
Both women in this book are on their own path of growth and along the way make friends, form relationships and begin to see that no matter how old (or young) you are, you can always start over and begin again.
I really enjoyed Lauren K. Denton's book The Hideaway and was hoping that this would be just as good. Sadly, it fell a little short of that book but was still charming and enjoyable. Sure, it was predictable, but I didn't mind that at all. One issues that I had was the changing back and forth between the two women's stories was a little choppy and it interrupted up the flow of the book for me.
Overall, I think fans of Lauren K. Denton will be happy with this book. The book does have some romance but no graphic scenes or language. I also appreciated that the relationships in this book did not feel rushed - including the friendships that are started in this book. I found this to be very realistic.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rose Carrigan runs the retirement community where Lily applies for the job as being a hair stylist. She is known for running a tight ship, keeping others at arm’s length, and yet she sees something in the younger woman and knows she must hire her and allow her to live over the salon. She even enlists her nephew and his friend to help Lily move.
Soon, Lily becomes a part of the "active" community and learns about the community members, their lives and is told all the local gossip. She also begins to heal after being left high and dry and begins to form a friendship with Rose's nephew.
Both women in this book are on their own path of growth and along the way make friends, form relationships and begin to see that no matter how old (or young) you are, you can always start over and begin again.
I really enjoyed Lauren K. Denton's book The Hideaway and was hoping that this would be just as good. Sadly, it fell a little short of that book but was still charming and enjoyable. Sure, it was predictable, but I didn't mind that at all. One issues that I had was the changing back and forth between the two women's stories was a little choppy and it interrupted up the flow of the book for me.
Overall, I think fans of Lauren K. Denton will be happy with this book. The book does have some romance but no graphic scenes or language. I also appreciated that the relationships in this book did not feel rushed - including the friendships that are started in this book. I found this to be very realistic.
I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson Fiction and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 16, 2020
EXCERPT: Even though her mind still felt fuzzy with sleep, she rose from the bed and made her way down to the kitchen. That's when she realised what was wrong. She usually woke to the scent of strong Columbian roast coffee wafting from the kitchen into the bedroom, luring her with a warm, heady promise.
Their fancy Bonavita coffeemaker, a wedding gift from Worth's best man, was the first thing he had unpacked two weeks ago when they had arrived in Foley from Atlanta, and he'd made a steaming pot of extra-robust coffee every morning before he left for work. It was a small token, especially when everything felt so upside down and Lily had long grown used to feeling off-balance, and she took the daily gift of hot coffee for what it was - his way of offering sustenance, love, and maybe a little hope, all in her favourite mug.
This morning, however, the gleaming silver coffeepot was cold and quiet. She was still tying the belt on her thin robe around her waist when she saw the note propped up against it. A mechanical pencil lay next to it.
'Lily, I can't do this anymore. You deserve more than what I can give you. I'm so sorry.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated, but a flyer at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community provides a refuge while she contemplates her next steps.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where residents share town gossip, as well as a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far.
MY THOUGHTS: Sweet, charming, enjoyable. But nothing memorable, and somewhat predictable.
The Summer House is my first book by Lauren K. Denton. It is a quick, easy read, pleasant, but lacking in that special something that leaves you longing for more.
The characters in the lifestyle village are a colourful bunch, with stories of pain, joy, and living their lives fully. They still wear brightly coloured bathing suits, dance, have tiny dogs on glittery leashes, drive golf carts decorated with leis and enjoy boozy Sunday afternoons.
This is a fun read, ideal for a day at the beach or by the pool.
😊😊😊
#TheSummerHouse #NetGalley
'Death is always unexpected, even when we know it's coming.'
THE AUTHOR: Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Lauren K. Denton now lives with her husband and two daughters in Homewood, just outside Birmingham. In addition to her fiction, she writes a monthly newspaper column about life, faith, and how funny (and hard) it is to be a parent. On any given day, she’d rather be at the beach with her family and a stack of books.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Summer House by Lauren K. Denton for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Their fancy Bonavita coffeemaker, a wedding gift from Worth's best man, was the first thing he had unpacked two weeks ago when they had arrived in Foley from Atlanta, and he'd made a steaming pot of extra-robust coffee every morning before he left for work. It was a small token, especially when everything felt so upside down and Lily had long grown used to feeling off-balance, and she took the daily gift of hot coffee for what it was - his way of offering sustenance, love, and maybe a little hope, all in her favourite mug.
This morning, however, the gleaming silver coffeepot was cold and quiet. She was still tying the belt on her thin robe around her waist when she saw the note propped up against it. A mechanical pencil lay next to it.
'Lily, I can't do this anymore. You deserve more than what I can give you. I'm so sorry.'
ABOUT THIS BOOK: Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated, but a flyer at the grocery store for a hair stylist position in a local retirement community provides a refuge while she contemplates her next steps.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where residents share town gossip, as well as a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far.
MY THOUGHTS: Sweet, charming, enjoyable. But nothing memorable, and somewhat predictable.
The Summer House is my first book by Lauren K. Denton. It is a quick, easy read, pleasant, but lacking in that special something that leaves you longing for more.
The characters in the lifestyle village are a colourful bunch, with stories of pain, joy, and living their lives fully. They still wear brightly coloured bathing suits, dance, have tiny dogs on glittery leashes, drive golf carts decorated with leis and enjoy boozy Sunday afternoons.
This is a fun read, ideal for a day at the beach or by the pool.
😊😊😊
#TheSummerHouse #NetGalley
'Death is always unexpected, even when we know it's coming.'
THE AUTHOR: Born and raised in Mobile, Alabama, Lauren K. Denton now lives with her husband and two daughters in Homewood, just outside Birmingham. In addition to her fiction, she writes a monthly newspaper column about life, faith, and how funny (and hard) it is to be a parent. On any given day, she’d rather be at the beach with her family and a stack of books.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Thomas Nelson via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Summer House by Lauren K. Denton for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 11, 2020
What a delightful unexpected gem! Lauren K. Denton has Spohn such a delightful feel good tale that warmed my heart and made me smile. It has been a rough heartbreaking emotional week and I’ve been so distracted. It was so nice to find a gorgeous story filled with kind characters to escape into. Lily has just moved from Atlanta to the Alabama Gulf when her husband up and leaves her. New to town and knowing nobody Lily finds herself in need of a job and a new place to live. While at the grocery store she runs across two older ladies and finds out there is a need for a hairdresser at their active living community. Rose is the owner and manager at the active living community on Safe Harbor. Rose is a little prickly, but when Lily interviews for the hairdressing job she has compassion for the girl. Lily now finds herself with a new job and living in a community where most of the residents are four decades older than her.
Loved every minute I spend with these charming characters. Loved the hairdresser setting, these characters were just like me and spilled all their secrets while sitting in that chair. Both Lily and Rose were wonderful characters and I love the friendship that grew between them. There was also a sweet dose of romance in the story that I loved. A lovely clean romance with a generous dose of hope and heart.
This book in emojis 🌹 ✂️ 💇🏻♀️ 🦐 🐊 🍋 🌊
*** Big thank you to Thomas Nelson for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved every minute I spend with these charming characters. Loved the hairdresser setting, these characters were just like me and spilled all their secrets while sitting in that chair. Both Lily and Rose were wonderful characters and I love the friendship that grew between them. There was also a sweet dose of romance in the story that I loved. A lovely clean romance with a generous dose of hope and heart.
This book in emojis 🌹 ✂️ 💇🏻♀️ 🦐 🐊 🍋 🌊
*** Big thank you to Thomas Nelson for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
March 1, 2021
Well, obviously, I think this story is pretty great! If you choose to read it, I hope it provides you some entertainment and encouragement, and a healthy dose of humor, spunk, and hope.
August 8, 2020
This is my kind of book! It gave me a roller coaster of emotions, but ultimately left me with a big smile. It explores the trials and tribulations of life. Lily and her husband Worth have just recently moved to a small town on the gulf shore in Alabama. She wakes in the morning to find the other side of the bed cold, a note, and divorce papers. Lily at 28 and married only a year is shocked and….relieved. She needs to find a place to stay and a job. She was a hairdresser before marrying, growing up learning the tricks of the trade in her mother's shop. A run-in at the grocery changes everything. Literally a run-in. The women are from an active living community who just happen to be seeking a hair stylist.
Rose is the owner of the active lifestyle community. She is prickly and stand-offish with people including most of the residents, but right away she feels for Lily and hires her on the spot. Despite some reservations, she even lets her move into the apartment above the salon.
The friendship and romances that ensue teach us that anybody has a chance to start over if you open your heart and mind. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks.
My thoughts:
This was the perfect summer beach read!! At the beginning I felt pain for Lily when she found that “dear Jane” note, and indignation for her at her mother in law. What a nightmare of a woman. I really enjoyed the retirement community! I loved the gossip at the salon...I was picturing scenes straight out of “Steel Magnolias” Dolly Parton and all.
This book felt so uplifting and heartwarming! If you are fans of Fannie Flagg, Rebecca Wells or chick- lit southern style you will love this book!!
For more book fun subscribe to my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
Rose is the owner of the active lifestyle community. She is prickly and stand-offish with people including most of the residents, but right away she feels for Lily and hires her on the spot. Despite some reservations, she even lets her move into the apartment above the salon.
The friendship and romances that ensue teach us that anybody has a chance to start over if you open your heart and mind. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks.
My thoughts:
This was the perfect summer beach read!! At the beginning I felt pain for Lily when she found that “dear Jane” note, and indignation for her at her mother in law. What a nightmare of a woman. I really enjoyed the retirement community! I loved the gossip at the salon...I was picturing scenes straight out of “Steel Magnolias” Dolly Parton and all.
This book felt so uplifting and heartwarming! If you are fans of Fannie Flagg, Rebecca Wells or chick- lit southern style you will love this book!!
For more book fun subscribe to my blog @: http://beachbumbookworm.com/
June 17, 2020
What a wonderful book! Oh my goodness. It resonated with me on so many levels. The characters were all so fantastic. The writing is glorious. The story itself was a joy to read. There has not been a book I have read by this author to date (only one published book to go) that hasn't touched me on some level and received a five-star review from me. Just loved it. I cannot wait to read the next new story this gifted and talented author creates. I will be first in line to get it! ;)
May 28, 2020
5 stars. There is so much to love about this book. It’s full of brightness, hope, and has beautifully crafted love stories I adored, with it’s main focus centering on self-discovery/growth which shined through the entirety. I didn’t want this book to end.
The Summer House is a fun loving, feel good, summertime escape. It’s southern coastal setting is located on an island in the small retirement community of Safe Harbor. Ms Danton’s writing is so descriptive and visual she literally transported me to the Alabama shores—my senses could see the pelicans, hear the waves and taste the salt in the gulf.
This moving novel explores the struggles and triumphs of two women—28-year-old Lily Bishop, and 60ish Rose Carrigan aka “Ice Queen.” Lily’s husband walked out on their marriage by leaving behind a note and divorce papers. Rose can’t let go of her difficult childhood.
Lily is in dire need of new living arrangements and a job. She sees an ad while at her grocer and immediately applies for a hairstylist position in Safe Harbor. Rose sees something redeeming in Lily, whom also offers office help, and hires her on the spot (which is unusual for her) to reopen the villages only salon. It also provides housing above it.
It’s the summer of new beginnings, hope, and resilience. Lily and Rose’s endearing journey of self-discovery will have you grinning from ear to ear. Their story put a smile on my face, and brought joy to my heart. This is the authors best book yet.
Releases June 2, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Summer House is a fun loving, feel good, summertime escape. It’s southern coastal setting is located on an island in the small retirement community of Safe Harbor. Ms Danton’s writing is so descriptive and visual she literally transported me to the Alabama shores—my senses could see the pelicans, hear the waves and taste the salt in the gulf.
This moving novel explores the struggles and triumphs of two women—28-year-old Lily Bishop, and 60ish Rose Carrigan aka “Ice Queen.” Lily’s husband walked out on their marriage by leaving behind a note and divorce papers. Rose can’t let go of her difficult childhood.
Lily is in dire need of new living arrangements and a job. She sees an ad while at her grocer and immediately applies for a hairstylist position in Safe Harbor. Rose sees something redeeming in Lily, whom also offers office help, and hires her on the spot (which is unusual for her) to reopen the villages only salon. It also provides housing above it.
It’s the summer of new beginnings, hope, and resilience. Lily and Rose’s endearing journey of self-discovery will have you grinning from ear to ear. Their story put a smile on my face, and brought joy to my heart. This is the authors best book yet.
Releases June 2, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Read
March 3, 2020Completely charming!
While following the endearing relationship between Rose Carrigan and Lily Bishop, Denton introduces readers to the utterly charming town of Safe Harbor. Situated on the Alabama Gulf, you’ll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends — you won’t want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.
While following the endearing relationship between Rose Carrigan and Lily Bishop, Denton introduces readers to the utterly charming town of Safe Harbor. Situated on the Alabama Gulf, you’ll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends — you won’t want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.
July 7, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a digital copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
And honestly? I loved this book. I requested it because of the cover alone...I have always had a thing for porch swings. It only took me a couple of pages to get into the book. The main character in the beginning is Lily. Fresh from moving to a new city and a new house, she wakes up one morning to find a goodbye letter and some divorce papers. He didn't even make the coffee before he propped the letter up by the machine. THAT is bad enough but then she finds out that the place they were staying in was contingent on the job he had, which he also walked away from. So now she is alone and without a place to stay. She comes upon some women talking about how a hairdresser is needed at their retirement community and since that is what she used to do, she decided to apply. Rose becomes another main character and Rose is the owner of the retirement community. As she is applying, Lily finds out that as a perk, she would get to live above the shop and things go from there. We meet so many people in that community and there are so many stories within stories that I was not quite ready to let them go.
Maybe I liked it so much because I am middle aged and thinking towards that direction, I have no idea. But I am telling you that if this place were real, I would seriously be contemplating going there when it was time to retire and settle in somewhere. I would seriously love to meet these people if they were real.
And honestly? I loved this book. I requested it because of the cover alone...I have always had a thing for porch swings. It only took me a couple of pages to get into the book. The main character in the beginning is Lily. Fresh from moving to a new city and a new house, she wakes up one morning to find a goodbye letter and some divorce papers. He didn't even make the coffee before he propped the letter up by the machine. THAT is bad enough but then she finds out that the place they were staying in was contingent on the job he had, which he also walked away from. So now she is alone and without a place to stay. She comes upon some women talking about how a hairdresser is needed at their retirement community and since that is what she used to do, she decided to apply. Rose becomes another main character and Rose is the owner of the retirement community. As she is applying, Lily finds out that as a perk, she would get to live above the shop and things go from there. We meet so many people in that community and there are so many stories within stories that I was not quite ready to let them go.
Maybe I liked it so much because I am middle aged and thinking towards that direction, I have no idea. But I am telling you that if this place were real, I would seriously be contemplating going there when it was time to retire and settle in somewhere. I would seriously love to meet these people if they were real.
April 19, 2020
I was rooting for Lily to make a new life for herself. I knew the second she met Rose, they would become great friends and help each other through their struggles. It is a perfect beach read that will make you feel as though you are down in the South on the water. I gave this 4 stars only because it was a bit predicable.
June 21, 2020
3.5 stars
July 24, 2022
Wonderful book!
I enjoyed this book so very much, and right from the very first page. I find myself thinking about Lily, Rose, Coach, Rawlings, Tiny, Roberta, and the rest of the gang quite often.
This is the first book I have read by Lauren K. Denton and she has quickly became a favorite author! Such a sweet, uplifting, lovely book. I just adore it!
I enjoyed this book so very much, and right from the very first page. I find myself thinking about Lily, Rose, Coach, Rawlings, Tiny, Roberta, and the rest of the gang quite often.
This is the first book I have read by Lauren K. Denton and she has quickly became a favorite author! Such a sweet, uplifting, lovely book. I just adore it!
August 3, 2022
I enjoyed this story.
June 16, 2020
Heart-warming! The type of book that will leave you feeling uplifted with a full-heart!
This book is one of those warm, cathartic reads where I felt that I experienced all of the ups and downs with the characters as I read. By the end, I had the warm-fuzzies. A truly great feel-good read that is perfect to escape life for a bit and unwind, whether on vacation or a staycation!
The opening chapters are full of quiet heartbreak. Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a note from her husband and divorce papers. In some ways, she feels like she always knew this is how they’d end. And yet, that doesn’t fix the shock, the sadness, and the memory that their final embrace was in retrospect, a goodbye. She just didn’t know it yet.
But despite the hard moments, this is also a book that felt fully like a story about healing. I found it so cathartic to read, from watching Rose and Lily form a friendship, and watching Lily find her way through a new life now that she had been suddenly released from the life she thought she knew and wanted. Through the hard times, I felt that Lily found something much more valuable and fulfilling, even if it wasn’t the life she imagined for herself.
Both Rose and Lily are compelling characters, and their stories are so seamlessly intertwined. Rose is more reserved and distant than Lily, but they compliment one another in an unexpected way. They felt like the exact person that the other needed to pull them through the trials they are facing.
And of course, there is a romance. It is the sweet kind of butterflies-in-your-stomach romance that just made me happy to read about. It felt like it was happening to me! This is the sort of story that could be called predictable, but also carried the lesson that when love is right, it can be easy. It can just simply make sense. The contrast between Lily’s relationships were so striking and that made the love story so satisfying!
A beautiful story with characters you will not want to leave behind, and uplifting themes of forgiveness, healing, and second chances. A lovely book that lifted my spirits!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
This book is one of those warm, cathartic reads where I felt that I experienced all of the ups and downs with the characters as I read. By the end, I had the warm-fuzzies. A truly great feel-good read that is perfect to escape life for a bit and unwind, whether on vacation or a staycation!
The opening chapters are full of quiet heartbreak. Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a note from her husband and divorce papers. In some ways, she feels like she always knew this is how they’d end. And yet, that doesn’t fix the shock, the sadness, and the memory that their final embrace was in retrospect, a goodbye. She just didn’t know it yet.
But despite the hard moments, this is also a book that felt fully like a story about healing. I found it so cathartic to read, from watching Rose and Lily form a friendship, and watching Lily find her way through a new life now that she had been suddenly released from the life she thought she knew and wanted. Through the hard times, I felt that Lily found something much more valuable and fulfilling, even if it wasn’t the life she imagined for herself.
Both Rose and Lily are compelling characters, and their stories are so seamlessly intertwined. Rose is more reserved and distant than Lily, but they compliment one another in an unexpected way. They felt like the exact person that the other needed to pull them through the trials they are facing.
And of course, there is a romance. It is the sweet kind of butterflies-in-your-stomach romance that just made me happy to read about. It felt like it was happening to me! This is the sort of story that could be called predictable, but also carried the lesson that when love is right, it can be easy. It can just simply make sense. The contrast between Lily’s relationships were so striking and that made the love story so satisfying!
A beautiful story with characters you will not want to leave behind, and uplifting themes of forgiveness, healing, and second chances. A lovely book that lifted my spirits!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours for my copy. Opinions are my own.
November 30, 2020
THE SUMMER HOUSE is a slow burn contemporary story that I was pulled in to from the very first page. To be honest, I fell in love with the cover the minute I saw it. I knew I would read it anyway, because I have been hearing so much about Lauren K Denton, but the cover really pulled me in. I would love to be swaying in that swing with a good book! I loved everything about this beautiful story and I’m excited to recommend it to my reading friends. Lauren K Denton has a way of grabbing her readers and she never lets us go.
THE SUMMER HOUSE really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Lily Bishop’s husband leaves her one day out of the blue and with no warning. She wakes up to find a note and divorce papers on the counter. He has left, but he left all his belongings behind. Lily is devastated and just can’t get it together. One day she sees a flyer at a local grocery store advertising for a hair stylist. Rose Carrigan runs the retirement community where Lily applies for the job as a hair stylist. Rose is known for being very strict about the community, keeping others at arm’s length and never letting anyone close to her heart. But she sees something in Lily and knows she must hire her and allow her to live over the salon. She even gets her nephew and his friend to help Lily move.
THE SUMMER HOUSE is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Lauren K Denton was taking us and what would happen. The retirement community sounds like so much fun, full of fun characters, set on the coast with plenty of activities and a pool, but each person living there has their own cottage. Maybe its because this was the exact book I needed to read right now, but I loved THE SUMMER HOUSE. The sleepy town, the characters all sweet, but carrying their own baggage, the blossoming love of people who never thought they’d love again. I’m so excited to read more of Ms. Denton’s stories. She has a brand new fan now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
THE SUMMER HOUSE really takes a turn that will have you unable to put this beautiful story down. Lily Bishop’s husband leaves her one day out of the blue and with no warning. She wakes up to find a note and divorce papers on the counter. He has left, but he left all his belongings behind. Lily is devastated and just can’t get it together. One day she sees a flyer at a local grocery store advertising for a hair stylist. Rose Carrigan runs the retirement community where Lily applies for the job as a hair stylist. Rose is known for being very strict about the community, keeping others at arm’s length and never letting anyone close to her heart. But she sees something in Lily and knows she must hire her and allow her to live over the salon. She even gets her nephew and his friend to help Lily move.
THE SUMMER HOUSE is filled with twists and turns and had me staying up way too late one night to finish! I had to know where Lauren K Denton was taking us and what would happen. The retirement community sounds like so much fun, full of fun characters, set on the coast with plenty of activities and a pool, but each person living there has their own cottage. Maybe its because this was the exact book I needed to read right now, but I loved THE SUMMER HOUSE. The sleepy town, the characters all sweet, but carrying their own baggage, the blossoming love of people who never thought they’d love again. I’m so excited to read more of Ms. Denton’s stories. She has a brand new fan now!
I received a complimentary copy of this book through Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.
August 11, 2020
Lauren K. Denton delivers another intergenerational story infused with heart and hope and the kind of characters you want for your best friends. She has this charming Southern style that welcomes a reader in. It's gently paced - which doesn't mean it's not compelling -- more like the words wrap around your heart and mind, urging you to take your time and really explore the characters and setting. As much as I wanted to discover what would happen next, I was content to sit in each moment and savor the storytelling genius.
Two women, decades apart in age, are stalling over the same life trauma. Rose has been letting her past fester to the point it has scarred her present. Lily hovers on the cusp of doing the exact same thing until gruff, never-get-involved Rose uncharacteristically reaches out. A beautiful study on the complexities of relationships and the burdens we persist on carrying unnecessarily.
Two budding romances add a frisson of toe-curls and lighten the heavier aspects of this novel as do a bevy of delightful (and a few not-so delightful) secondary characters. Love the goings on in the Safe Harbor community. They provide some giggle-worthy moments as well as some moving, heart-felt ones.
I enjoyed listening to the audible version narrated by Devon O'Day. She's a familiar voice in my audible arsenal which made me feel all the more at home inside this story.
Please note: I would not categorize this novel as Christian Fiction even though the publisher is Thomas Nelson. It is beautifully written and definitely a clean read and while forgiveness plays a role in both Rose and Lily's lives, it doesn't obviously come from a place of faith and the story lacks a definitive inspirational thread.
Two women, decades apart in age, are stalling over the same life trauma. Rose has been letting her past fester to the point it has scarred her present. Lily hovers on the cusp of doing the exact same thing until gruff, never-get-involved Rose uncharacteristically reaches out. A beautiful study on the complexities of relationships and the burdens we persist on carrying unnecessarily.
Two budding romances add a frisson of toe-curls and lighten the heavier aspects of this novel as do a bevy of delightful (and a few not-so delightful) secondary characters. Love the goings on in the Safe Harbor community. They provide some giggle-worthy moments as well as some moving, heart-felt ones.
I enjoyed listening to the audible version narrated by Devon O'Day. She's a familiar voice in my audible arsenal which made me feel all the more at home inside this story.
Please note: I would not categorize this novel as Christian Fiction even though the publisher is Thomas Nelson. It is beautifully written and definitely a clean read and while forgiveness plays a role in both Rose and Lily's lives, it doesn't obviously come from a place of faith and the story lacks a definitive inspirational thread.
July 3, 2020
Dnf at 60%. This wasn't terrible, it started out interesting with our main character being suddenly left by her husband but it just never took off.
I've read a handful of cute, wholesome summer reads recently and this just doesn't live up to the likes of Hilderbrand, Macomber, Carr etc. Again, not terrible just not interesting or cute enough.
Oh, I know. It lacked personality.
I've read a handful of cute, wholesome summer reads recently and this just doesn't live up to the likes of Hilderbrand, Macomber, Carr etc. Again, not terrible just not interesting or cute enough.
Oh, I know. It lacked personality.
March 31, 2020
I enjoyed this feel good story! It was predictable and cozy, which is exactly what I was looking for. Everyone loves a good redemption story and this well written books contains many. I enjoyed the characters and found myself rooting for many of them as they navigated new territory. This book is a warm hug that will leave you smiling! My thanks to the publisher for the advance reader in exchange for my honest review.
March 20, 2020
This book started off great but then fell flat towards the middle but then it picked back up. I would love to live in Safe Harbor with Rose and Lily. I could totally be friends with both of them. This is my 4th book by Lauren K. Denton and her books are always “feel
good books”. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
good books”. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
July 29, 2020
Southern charm. What could be more southern than spending time in a beauty salon?
The retirement village of Safe Harbor is a haven for Lily Bishop after her husband abruptly ends their one year marriage.
And the cover...lovely.
The retirement village of Safe Harbor is a haven for Lily Bishop after her husband abruptly ends their one year marriage.
And the cover...lovely.
June 30, 2020
What a fun book! Just the thing I needed. A huge fan of Lauren K. Denton and have enjoyed all her books. THE SUMMER HOUSE was another favorite. Makes you want to grab a swing on a front porch for the day of reading.
A perfect escape from the madness, full of Southern charm, and a cast of relatable characters. It is never too to start over, no matter the age. I purchased the audiobook narrated by Devon Oday for an award-winning performance. Fans of Mary Kay Andrews will enjoy this one! Heart, humor, sass, and a lot of laughs. A full review coming!
A perfect escape from the madness, full of Southern charm, and a cast of relatable characters. It is never too to start over, no matter the age. I purchased the audiobook narrated by Devon Oday for an award-winning performance. Fans of Mary Kay Andrews will enjoy this one! Heart, humor, sass, and a lot of laughs. A full review coming!
June 25, 2020
The Summer House tells the story of two women: Rose, owner of the retirement village Safe Harbor, who keeps herself closed off from everyone; and Lily, a young woman starting over following her husband's abandonment. Through the course of one summer, each woman comes to terms with her own past and learns to let others in.
I really loved this book! While it contains a little romance, it's definitely much more about friendship than anything else. I loved seeing the relationships Lily built with her customers, and watching Rose come out of her self-imposed shell was really satisfying.
In addition to the story being told from Lily's and Rose's perspectives, Denton adds some letters that Rose writes to her deceased sister-in-law, as well as issues of The Village Vine (the community newsletter). These definitely added to my understanding of the story, and the newsletter brought some great humor, as well. Overall, The Summer House is a book full of charm and heart—a perfect summer read. 4-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
I really loved this book! While it contains a little romance, it's definitely much more about friendship than anything else. I loved seeing the relationships Lily built with her customers, and watching Rose come out of her self-imposed shell was really satisfying.
In addition to the story being told from Lily's and Rose's perspectives, Denton adds some letters that Rose writes to her deceased sister-in-law, as well as issues of The Village Vine (the community newsletter). These definitely added to my understanding of the story, and the newsletter brought some great humor, as well. Overall, The Summer House is a book full of charm and heart—a perfect summer read. 4-1/2 stars.
Disclosure of material connection: I received this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and the opinions expressed are my own.
June 16, 2020
A beautiful beach read that felt familiar in its plot line yet made me happy to read it.
Rose's husband had left her, Lily ran a retirement home. Both struck up friendship and furthered the story.
My first book by this author, I liked the steady pace of the book showing me their lives. The two ladies were sweet, ably supported by other characters who equally had gone through life. Friendships and second chance at life was well shown.
Overall, I would say this was perfect on a day when I didn't want to think but forget every problem in the world.
Rose's husband had left her, Lily ran a retirement home. Both struck up friendship and furthered the story.
My first book by this author, I liked the steady pace of the book showing me their lives. The two ladies were sweet, ably supported by other characters who equally had gone through life. Friendships and second chance at life was well shown.
Overall, I would say this was perfect on a day when I didn't want to think but forget every problem in the world.
March 21, 2020
When Lily’s life is turned upside down hope comes in the most unexpected place. When Lily spots an ad for a hairdresser in a retirement community she decides it just might be the fresh start she is looking for. This book showcased the hope and peace that can come when we make a decision to change, no matter our age ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️5/5 stars for this one!
July 3, 2021
This started off well, but the plot quickly fizzled out, and it became an extremely slow read for me. I must admit, I wanted to quit listening to this book several times, but I pushed through hoping for a good ending. Unfortunately, the ending wasn’t what I was hoping for. I thought this read much like a clean mainstream novel, and nothing about it really inspired nor charmed me.
Things that I did like.
- The setting of a community made up of retired people. Some of the secondary characters were great.
- Rose’s change in attitude and how she learned to love those around her.
Things that I personally didn’t like.
- The casual treatment of divorce.
- How the main characters were drinking beer. (I’m not saying whether it’s right or wrong, I’m just saying that I personally didn’t care for how it was written in the story.)
Things that I did like.
- The setting of a community made up of retired people. Some of the secondary characters were great.
- Rose’s change in attitude and how she learned to love those around her.
Things that I personally didn’t like.
- The casual treatment of divorce.
- How the main characters were drinking beer. (I’m not saying whether it’s right or wrong, I’m just saying that I personally didn’t care for how it was written in the story.)
November 28, 2022
Enjoyable
The Summer House is a pleasant story about bouncing back from relationships. It is an easy read full of interesting characters.
The Summer House is a pleasant story about bouncing back from relationships. It is an easy read full of interesting characters.
March 24, 2020
Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find her husband of a year gone and divorce papers waiting for her to sign. She feels blindsided by this turn of events, but not having much choice, she answers an ad for a hairstylist in Safe Harbor Village, a small retirement community started by Rose Carrigan over forty years ago.
Rose is known as the Ice Queen among the retirement community just not to her face. She doesn’t need a new hairstylist, but Lily convinces her that she won’t be any trouble and that she’ll even help her out in the office. For reasons Rose doesn’t even understand herself, she hires Lily and allows her to move into the apartment above the hair salon.
For Lily, I loved seeing how she was able to open her own shop and come into her own by using the money her Mom had saved for years unbeknownst to her. Lily has regrets, doubts, and sadness regarding her marriage to Worth, but as time goes on, she starts to see where she is, is a good place to be. She’s met Rawlins, (Rose’s nephew) and they definitely have some chemistry between each other. They both have some past issues, and they are willing to tread the edges of their pain to get to know each other. Hazel, Rawlins's daughter is precious.
I have read Ms. Denton’s previous novels and I think this was my favorite so far. It wasn’t hard to connect with any of the characters and they were all so likable, even the ones that meant to cause problems (in little ways). I do admit that I thought Rose a little rough in the beginning but it seems after she let Lily cut her hair that the doors of possibilities in her life just flew open! She had a different perspective even though she was still the same person, however, her heart had open to opportunities that otherwise would’ve stayed closed.
This was really enjoyable read for me, as all Lauren K. Denton’s stories have been. It was easy to become a part of the Safe Harbor Village.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rose is known as the Ice Queen among the retirement community just not to her face. She doesn’t need a new hairstylist, but Lily convinces her that she won’t be any trouble and that she’ll even help her out in the office. For reasons Rose doesn’t even understand herself, she hires Lily and allows her to move into the apartment above the hair salon.
For Lily, I loved seeing how she was able to open her own shop and come into her own by using the money her Mom had saved for years unbeknownst to her. Lily has regrets, doubts, and sadness regarding her marriage to Worth, but as time goes on, she starts to see where she is, is a good place to be. She’s met Rawlins, (Rose’s nephew) and they definitely have some chemistry between each other. They both have some past issues, and they are willing to tread the edges of their pain to get to know each other. Hazel, Rawlins's daughter is precious.
I have read Ms. Denton’s previous novels and I think this was my favorite so far. It wasn’t hard to connect with any of the characters and they were all so likable, even the ones that meant to cause problems (in little ways). I do admit that I thought Rose a little rough in the beginning but it seems after she let Lily cut her hair that the doors of possibilities in her life just flew open! She had a different perspective even though she was still the same person, however, her heart had open to opportunities that otherwise would’ve stayed closed.
This was really enjoyable read for me, as all Lauren K. Denton’s stories have been. It was easy to become a part of the Safe Harbor Village.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 28, 2020
5 stars. There is so much to love about this book. It’s full of brightness, hope, and has beautifully crafted love stories I adored, with it’s main focus centering on self-discovery/growth which shined through the entirety. I didn’t want this book to end.
The Summer House is a fun loving, feel good, summertime escape. It’s southern coastal setting is located on an island in the small retirement community of Safe Harbor. Ms Danton’s writing is so descriptive and visual she literally transported me to the Alabama shores—my senses could see the pelicans, hear the waves and taste the salt in the gulf.
This moving novel explores the struggles and triumphs of two women—28-year-old Lily Bishop, and 60ish Rose Carrigan aka “Ice Queen.” Lily’s husband walked out on their marriage by leaving behind a note and divorce papers. Rose can’t let go of her difficult childhood.
Lily is in dire need of new living arrangements and a job. She sees an ad while at her grocer and immediately applies for a hairstylist position in Safe Harbor. Rose sees something redeeming in Lily, whom also offers office help, and hires her on the spot (which is unusual for her) to reopen the villages only salon. It also provides housing above it.
It’s the summer of new beginnings, hope, and resilience. Lily and Rose’s endearing journey of self-discovery will have you grinning from ear to ear. Their story put a smile on my face, and brought joy to my heart. This is the authors best book yet.
Releases June 2, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The Summer House is a fun loving, feel good, summertime escape. It’s southern coastal setting is located on an island in the small retirement community of Safe Harbor. Ms Danton’s writing is so descriptive and visual she literally transported me to the Alabama shores—my senses could see the pelicans, hear the waves and taste the salt in the gulf.
This moving novel explores the struggles and triumphs of two women—28-year-old Lily Bishop, and 60ish Rose Carrigan aka “Ice Queen.” Lily’s husband walked out on their marriage by leaving behind a note and divorce papers. Rose can’t let go of her difficult childhood.
Lily is in dire need of new living arrangements and a job. She sees an ad while at her grocer and immediately applies for a hairstylist position in Safe Harbor. Rose sees something redeeming in Lily, whom also offers office help, and hires her on the spot (which is unusual for her) to reopen the villages only salon. It also provides housing above it.
It’s the summer of new beginnings, hope, and resilience. Lily and Rose’s endearing journey of self-discovery will have you grinning from ear to ear. Their story put a smile on my face, and brought joy to my heart. This is the authors best book yet.
Releases June 2, 2020
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2020
I didn’t finish reading this one. It started out strong with great character development of Lilly, but then really slowed down. In the end I couldn’t get into the story.
July 7, 2020
The Summer House was such a great summer read. Have you ever heard the song “She Let Herself Go” by George Strait? It’s one of my favorites. In the song, a husband leaves his wife and she “let herself go”. But not in the way you might think. She doesn’t let her looks go. She lets herself go to New York City, the beach, a blind date, etc. You get the point.
Lily wakes up one morning and her husband of barely a year is gone. He left a note and divorce papers like the coward he is. Not only did he leave her, he left her in a town they just relocated to.
Rose is a lady curmudgeon. She likes things a certain way and makes sure the residents of Safe Harbor abide. Her tough exterior is a years built facade and Lily gets through to the real her, after applying for the hairdresser position at the village. These two make unlikely friends. And colleagues.
The Summer House is a story of beginning again, no matter your age. These ladies learn it is never too late to start over, to find love, to say you’re sorry. You’ll love the quirky residents and will root for Lily and Rose (and Coach, honestly). This is a feel good summer novel. Grab a beach chair and get cozy with a cocktail. It’s time to head to the summer house.
I received a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Lily wakes up one morning and her husband of barely a year is gone. He left a note and divorce papers like the coward he is. Not only did he leave her, he left her in a town they just relocated to.
Rose is a lady curmudgeon. She likes things a certain way and makes sure the residents of Safe Harbor abide. Her tough exterior is a years built facade and Lily gets through to the real her, after applying for the hairdresser position at the village. These two make unlikely friends. And colleagues.
The Summer House is a story of beginning again, no matter your age. These ladies learn it is never too late to start over, to find love, to say you’re sorry. You’ll love the quirky residents and will root for Lily and Rose (and Coach, honestly). This is a feel good summer novel. Grab a beach chair and get cozy with a cocktail. It’s time to head to the summer house.
I received a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
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