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Summer Longing
When a baby is left on the doorstep of a Cape Cod beach house, an unlikely group of women risks all they hold dear to harbor and protect her in this "touching, nuanced summer yarn" (Publisher's Weekly).
Ruth Cooperman arrives in beautiful beachside Provincetown for her retirement, renting the perfect waterfront cottage while she searches for her forever home. After years of hard work and making peace with life's compromises, Ruth is looking forward to a carefree summer of solitude. But when she finds a baby girl abandoned on her doorstep, Ruth turns to her new neighbors for help and is drawn into the drama of the close-knit community.
The appearance of the mystery baby has an emotional ripple effect through the women in town, including Amelia Cabral, the matriarch who lost her own child decades earlier; Elise Douglas, owner of the tea shop who gave up her dream of becoming a mother; and teenage local Jaci Barros who feels trapped by her parents' expectations. Ruth, caring for a baby for the first time in thirty years, even reaches out to her own estranged daughter, Olivia, summoning her to Provincetown in hopes of a reconciliation.
As summer unfolds and friends and family care for the infant, alliances are made, relationships are tested, and secrets are uncovered. But the unconditional love for a child in need just might bring Ruth and the women of Provincetown exactly what they have been longing for themselves.
With heartfelt storytelling, Summer Longing is Jamie Brenner's eagerly anticipated return to Provincetown; another unforgettable tale about motherhood, friendship, and finding your way home.
"Welcome to the gold standard of summertime escapism."
---Elin Hilderbrand, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Summer of '69
Ruth Cooperman arrives in beautiful beachside Provincetown for her retirement, renting the perfect waterfront cottage while she searches for her forever home. After years of hard work and making peace with life's compromises, Ruth is looking forward to a carefree summer of solitude. But when she finds a baby girl abandoned on her doorstep, Ruth turns to her new neighbors for help and is drawn into the drama of the close-knit community.
The appearance of the mystery baby has an emotional ripple effect through the women in town, including Amelia Cabral, the matriarch who lost her own child decades earlier; Elise Douglas, owner of the tea shop who gave up her dream of becoming a mother; and teenage local Jaci Barros who feels trapped by her parents' expectations. Ruth, caring for a baby for the first time in thirty years, even reaches out to her own estranged daughter, Olivia, summoning her to Provincetown in hopes of a reconciliation.
As summer unfolds and friends and family care for the infant, alliances are made, relationships are tested, and secrets are uncovered. But the unconditional love for a child in need just might bring Ruth and the women of Provincetown exactly what they have been longing for themselves.
With heartfelt storytelling, Summer Longing is Jamie Brenner's eagerly anticipated return to Provincetown; another unforgettable tale about motherhood, friendship, and finding your way home.
"Welcome to the gold standard of summertime escapism."
---Elin Hilderbrand, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Summer of '69
384 pages, Hardcover
First published May 5, 2020
363 people are currently reading
7702 people want to read
About the author
Jamie Brenner
27 books1,658 followersJamie Brenner is the author of The Wedding Sisters, The USA TODAY bestseller The Forever Summer, and several other beach books. Jamie's short story "Gold Party" (Blackstone Publishing) is currently in development as a feature film.
After raising two daughters in New York City, Jamie now lives in Bucks County, PA -- the inspiration for her next book THE WEEKEND CRASHERS (November 4, 2025) about a mother-daughter knitting retreat gone awry.
Jamie grew up on the blockbuster novels by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, the gothic horror of Anne Rice, and political thrillers by Nelson DeMille. Her dream novel combines all three.
Follow Jamie on instagram @jamiebrennerwrites
After raising two daughters in New York City, Jamie now lives in Bucks County, PA -- the inspiration for her next book THE WEEKEND CRASHERS (November 4, 2025) about a mother-daughter knitting retreat gone awry.
Jamie grew up on the blockbuster novels by Judith Krantz and Jackie Collins, the gothic horror of Anne Rice, and political thrillers by Nelson DeMille. Her dream novel combines all three.
Follow Jamie on instagram @jamiebrennerwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 416 reviews
May 16, 2020
A heartwarming beach read. Jamie Brenner’s vivid storytelling swept me away to Cape Cod and into the lives of these delightful characters. Ruth is in her late 50s and has decided to move and live a quieter life in the small town of Provincetown on Cape Cod.But Ruth’s wished for quiet life is quickly diverted when she finds a newborn baby has been abandoned on her rental homes front porch. Soon the owners of the rental property Elise and Fern Who have been wanting a baby move back in to help Ruth take care of baby girl Mira. Having a baby in the house inspires Ruth to reach out to her daughter Olivia who she has a less than stellar relationship with. Then Olivia joins her mother in Cape Cod and is quickly followed by her father/ Ruth’s ex-husband. Ruth’s new life is no longer quiet, but this just might be the perfect start to new beginnings. A beautiful story of family, friendship, second chances, new beginnings, love, loyalty, and hope.
Loved all the female relationships in the story mothers and daughters, friends, and romantic ties. It was lovely how this little baby girl brought all these unlikely women together. Each of these women were smart, strong, and savvy in their own ways. The setting of this book was so magical, I just adored this small town. Although the bulk of the story was about women and their ties to one another, there also was a bit of sweet romance. An enchanting beach read that warmed my heart.
This book in emojis 🏖 ☕️ 💄 👶🏼 🦪 🐚
*** Big thank you to Little Brown for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved all the female relationships in the story mothers and daughters, friends, and romantic ties. It was lovely how this little baby girl brought all these unlikely women together. Each of these women were smart, strong, and savvy in their own ways. The setting of this book was so magical, I just adored this small town. Although the bulk of the story was about women and their ties to one another, there also was a bit of sweet romance. An enchanting beach read that warmed my heart.
This book in emojis 🏖 ☕️ 💄 👶🏼 🦪 🐚
*** Big thank you to Little Brown for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
May 22, 2020
Ruth Cooperman is going to retire in Provincetown. She’s renting a beautiful cottage as she seeks a home to settle into.
Ruth is ready to open this new chapter of her life when she finds an abandoned baby on her doorstep. She leans on her neighbors for help.
This baby has a way of pulling on all the heartstrings and at the same time igniting drama amongst these women. Elise, Amelia, Jaci, and Ruth are each affected by the baby’s presence in different ways.
Oh my gosh, I loved these characters. Loving, quirky, complex characters. There’s a mystery here too. Where did this baby come from? What will her future be like? The setting is completely brought to life and made this the quintessential “beach” read.
Every year, I think Jamie Brenner has topped herself, and I find that with Summer Longing, she has done it again. This is certainly my favorite because it’s all heart.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
Ruth is ready to open this new chapter of her life when she finds an abandoned baby on her doorstep. She leans on her neighbors for help.
This baby has a way of pulling on all the heartstrings and at the same time igniting drama amongst these women. Elise, Amelia, Jaci, and Ruth are each affected by the baby’s presence in different ways.
Oh my gosh, I loved these characters. Loving, quirky, complex characters. There’s a mystery here too. Where did this baby come from? What will her future be like? The setting is completely brought to life and made this the quintessential “beach” read.
Every year, I think Jamie Brenner has topped herself, and I find that with Summer Longing, she has done it again. This is certainly my favorite because it’s all heart.
I received a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
May 5, 2020
Thanks to Netgalley and Little, Brown and Company for an egalley in exchange for an honest review.
In real life it's a rainy day with high winds and my feet just cannot get warm. But as soon as I began this novel, I could feel the warm summer sun and the beach sand through my toes. Summer Longing is a heartwarming story about motherhood, friendship and a sense of belonging.
Ruth Cooperman is all about getting away from the chaos of the business world that has been her focus for most of her adulthood. At 58, Ruth, a divorcee, is looking forward to enjoying her summer in Provincetown on Cape Cod. What Ruth couldn't even anticipate is all the drama that is about to go down. Ruth discovers that a baby has been left on the doorstep of the house she is renting.
Elise Douglas, the house's owner wants nothing more to be a mother. She and her wife, Fern have been trying for a child so long and the arrival of a mysterious infant may be what they've been waiting all this time for. But will Elise's actions have devastating consequences for their marriage and their tea business?
Soon Ruth finds her summer home filled with two extra housemates and a baby. When Ruth's adult daughter, Olivia arrives to visit, it promises to be a life changing experience for all the women.
Between Jamie Brenner, Elin Hilderbrand, and Kristy Woodson Harvey, the sales of Aloe vera must skyrocket in the summer as we all get sunburns from lingering at the beach. This unlikely group of women that find themselves thrown together by circumstances kept me turning the pages. Each of the three women that we really get to know-Ruth, Olivia, and Elise were easy to relate to. Even though I would shake my head at with some of their decisions, I found them really endearing. They are all supported by a great cast of memorable secondary characters. Jamie Brenner once again tugs at the heartstrings with another tale of mothers, daughters, and strong female friendships
Goodreads review published 05/05/20
Publication Date. 05/05/20
In real life it's a rainy day with high winds and my feet just cannot get warm. But as soon as I began this novel, I could feel the warm summer sun and the beach sand through my toes. Summer Longing is a heartwarming story about motherhood, friendship and a sense of belonging.
Ruth Cooperman is all about getting away from the chaos of the business world that has been her focus for most of her adulthood. At 58, Ruth, a divorcee, is looking forward to enjoying her summer in Provincetown on Cape Cod. What Ruth couldn't even anticipate is all the drama that is about to go down. Ruth discovers that a baby has been left on the doorstep of the house she is renting.
Elise Douglas, the house's owner wants nothing more to be a mother. She and her wife, Fern have been trying for a child so long and the arrival of a mysterious infant may be what they've been waiting all this time for. But will Elise's actions have devastating consequences for their marriage and their tea business?
Soon Ruth finds her summer home filled with two extra housemates and a baby. When Ruth's adult daughter, Olivia arrives to visit, it promises to be a life changing experience for all the women.
Between Jamie Brenner, Elin Hilderbrand, and Kristy Woodson Harvey, the sales of Aloe vera must skyrocket in the summer as we all get sunburns from lingering at the beach. This unlikely group of women that find themselves thrown together by circumstances kept me turning the pages. Each of the three women that we really get to know-Ruth, Olivia, and Elise were easy to relate to. Even though I would shake my head at with some of their decisions, I found them really endearing. They are all supported by a great cast of memorable secondary characters. Jamie Brenner once again tugs at the heartstrings with another tale of mothers, daughters, and strong female friendships
Goodreads review published 05/05/20
Publication Date. 05/05/20
October 30, 2020
4.5 stars.
Jamie Brenner's Summer Longing snapped me out of my brief reading slump!!
Ruth has always been totally driven, founding her own cosmetics company, but major success helped end her marriage and strained her relationship with her daughter. Now, having sold her company, she’s ready for retirement, and she plans to spend her golden years in Provincetown, a place she had fallen in love with when she was younger and never quite forgot.
When she arrives in the beachside town, her dreams of an idyllic summer quickly turn chaotic. She’s renting a cottage while looking for a permanent home, but at least one of the cottage’s owners doesn’t want to leave the house. And then, just a day after she arrives, someone abandons a baby girl on the porch of the cottage.
Whose baby is it? Is it a stranger's, or someone from town? Was the baby meant to be left for Elise and Fern, the cottage’s owners, who have struggled with fertility? If so, can they just keep the baby and pretend nothing happened? Elise sees it as a sign from God; Fern wants no part of this and knows the situation will only hurt her wife and potentially jeopardize their business and their marriage.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s estranged daughter, Olivia, comes to visit, bringing latent anger with her mother and her childhood. But Olivia has her own issues to deal with, and as much as she resents Ruth, she realizes Provincetown might be the place to figure things out.
This type of book totally appeals to me—some drama, some romance, secrets and lies, a beautiful setting, a sense of community—and I was hooked from start to finish. Brenner knows how to tell a story and make you feel a sense of connection to her characters. (I loved her last book, Drawing Home .) Apart from one character whom I loathed (it seemed her primary purpose was to stir s—t up and then leave), this was so enjoyable.
If you're looking for a book to put you in a good mood and perhaps make you long for the beach, Summer Longing may be what you need.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Jamie Brenner's Summer Longing snapped me out of my brief reading slump!!
Ruth has always been totally driven, founding her own cosmetics company, but major success helped end her marriage and strained her relationship with her daughter. Now, having sold her company, she’s ready for retirement, and she plans to spend her golden years in Provincetown, a place she had fallen in love with when she was younger and never quite forgot.
When she arrives in the beachside town, her dreams of an idyllic summer quickly turn chaotic. She’s renting a cottage while looking for a permanent home, but at least one of the cottage’s owners doesn’t want to leave the house. And then, just a day after she arrives, someone abandons a baby girl on the porch of the cottage.
Whose baby is it? Is it a stranger's, or someone from town? Was the baby meant to be left for Elise and Fern, the cottage’s owners, who have struggled with fertility? If so, can they just keep the baby and pretend nothing happened? Elise sees it as a sign from God; Fern wants no part of this and knows the situation will only hurt her wife and potentially jeopardize their business and their marriage.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s estranged daughter, Olivia, comes to visit, bringing latent anger with her mother and her childhood. But Olivia has her own issues to deal with, and as much as she resents Ruth, she realizes Provincetown might be the place to figure things out.
This type of book totally appeals to me—some drama, some romance, secrets and lies, a beautiful setting, a sense of community—and I was hooked from start to finish. Brenner knows how to tell a story and make you feel a sense of connection to her characters. (I loved her last book, Drawing Home .) Apart from one character whom I loathed (it seemed her primary purpose was to stir s—t up and then leave), this was so enjoyable.
If you're looking for a book to put you in a good mood and perhaps make you long for the beach, Summer Longing may be what you need.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
July 5, 2020
A bit of Provincetown porn, with affluent middle class people, tea shops, gorgeous beach houses. As it's the case in most books of this genre, people's dramas get fully resolve and there's always happy ever after. It wasn't bad but it was predictable and overexplained at times.
Easy listen, but I probably won't remember what it was about come next week.
Easy listen, but I probably won't remember what it was about come next week.
May 28, 2020
Once I sat down and started reading this book, I could not put it down I had to keep on reading it. I just had to know whos baby it was left on that front porch.
It was such a good read. I loved the who story.
This is a four star read that I recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
It was such a good read. I loved the who story.
This is a four star read that I recommend.
The Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are our own.
July 25, 2020
Ruth Cooperman has decided to retire to Provincetown. She is a single woman in her fifties who recently sold her successful cosmetics company. After dedicating her life to her work, she Is excited for a change of pace in a new community. On the first morning in her new home, she finds an abandoned baby on her doorstep. Ruth is confused about what to do and contacts Elise and Fern who are the owners of her house.
Elise and Fern run the local tea shop and have been trying to conceive a baby for many years. They can’t help but believe that this baby is a sign from above and was purposely left for them. Together they convince Ruth not to notify the authorities. Needing more space, they also convince Ruth to let them move back into the house. Ruth suddenly finds herself surrounded by people and love and her life changes in unexpected ways.
Summer Longing delves into issues surrounding motherhood, relationships, and family. Enjoy your summer as Jamie Brenner takes you to Provincetown.
Elise and Fern run the local tea shop and have been trying to conceive a baby for many years. They can’t help but believe that this baby is a sign from above and was purposely left for them. Together they convince Ruth not to notify the authorities. Needing more space, they also convince Ruth to let them move back into the house. Ruth suddenly finds herself surrounded by people and love and her life changes in unexpected ways.
Summer Longing delves into issues surrounding motherhood, relationships, and family. Enjoy your summer as Jamie Brenner takes you to Provincetown.
June 10, 2020
5 Stars!
Jamie Brenner is one of my must reads for summer and Summer Longing definitely did not disappoint!
Ruth just sold her very successful company, which has been her whole life, and now she's looking to settle down. Provincetown or P-town holds a special place in her heart. She decides this is the summer she is going to rent a house and try to start over. After Ruth settles on the house she's going to rent she gets a lot more than she bargains for with a baby showing up on her doorstep. The owners of the house become involved and before she knows it Ruth has a house full of people when all she wanted was her own retirement home. Summer Longing explores family dynamics, especially working moms and daughter, as well as infertility trouble and moral/ethical dilemmas. Each character goes through their own journey to find what works for them.
I loved this book so much and I could not put it down! When I finished the book I wanted nothing more than to pack my bags and head to P-town. The dynamics between the characters is really what drew me into this one. The mother/daughter relationship (which i'm sure some of us can relate), of Ruth and Olivia trying to make up for lost time and repair their bond. The relationship between Elise and Fern was so raw and real of what marriages go through. Also, the family obligations that we see within Jaci's family are very realistic and the kinds that we see each and everyday. The book explores the struggles of supporting a family whilst also wanting to pursue your dreams.
Overall, if this is not on your summer read list then you absolutely need to put it on. It will help you escape to the perfect beach town and will captivate you with the characters challenges and triumphs!
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours and Little Brown for my e-ARC and finished copies of this book!
Jamie Brenner is one of my must reads for summer and Summer Longing definitely did not disappoint!
Ruth just sold her very successful company, which has been her whole life, and now she's looking to settle down. Provincetown or P-town holds a special place in her heart. She decides this is the summer she is going to rent a house and try to start over. After Ruth settles on the house she's going to rent she gets a lot more than she bargains for with a baby showing up on her doorstep. The owners of the house become involved and before she knows it Ruth has a house full of people when all she wanted was her own retirement home. Summer Longing explores family dynamics, especially working moms and daughter, as well as infertility trouble and moral/ethical dilemmas. Each character goes through their own journey to find what works for them.
I loved this book so much and I could not put it down! When I finished the book I wanted nothing more than to pack my bags and head to P-town. The dynamics between the characters is really what drew me into this one. The mother/daughter relationship (which i'm sure some of us can relate), of Ruth and Olivia trying to make up for lost time and repair their bond. The relationship between Elise and Fern was so raw and real of what marriages go through. Also, the family obligations that we see within Jaci's family are very realistic and the kinds that we see each and everyday. The book explores the struggles of supporting a family whilst also wanting to pursue your dreams.
Overall, if this is not on your summer read list then you absolutely need to put it on. It will help you escape to the perfect beach town and will captivate you with the characters challenges and triumphs!
Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours and Little Brown for my e-ARC and finished copies of this book!
May 5, 2020
Jamie Brenner does it again!!
This time, with fabulous women and a baby in beautiful Cape Cod! Everything I need for a fabulous summer easy breezy read is right here.
Brenner transports us to picturesque small island town, Provincetown in a summer rental. We are introduced to some intriguing characters that you will absolutely love and get immersed in and that is how Jamie Brenner does it - with amazing dialogue, plot twists and backstories you will absolutely inhale. I feel like Brenner's characters come to life and jumps out from the pages. I absolutely adore this.
I really needed a great palate cleanser and this book came in the right time to escape from. Anyone brooding in this quarantine, please pick this book up for a lovely P'town Escape.
This time, with fabulous women and a baby in beautiful Cape Cod! Everything I need for a fabulous summer easy breezy read is right here.
Brenner transports us to picturesque small island town, Provincetown in a summer rental. We are introduced to some intriguing characters that you will absolutely love and get immersed in and that is how Jamie Brenner does it - with amazing dialogue, plot twists and backstories you will absolutely inhale. I feel like Brenner's characters come to life and jumps out from the pages. I absolutely adore this.
I really needed a great palate cleanser and this book came in the right time to escape from. Anyone brooding in this quarantine, please pick this book up for a lovely P'town Escape.
August 31, 2020
Ruth Cooperman moves to Provincetown after selling her cosmetics company and retiring, searching for the peace and nostalgia of the past and ultimately, a home of her own in this new community. Ruth is looking forward to new friends and connections as she gets involved with the close-knit community. What she didn’t anticipate was an abandoned baby on the doorstep shortly after she moves into her summer rental which leads to the homeowners, Elise and Fern Douglas, moving back into the guest room to care for the child.
The appearance of the child impacts not only Ruth, whose peaceful beach house has been disrupted, as well as Elise and Fern, who have longed for a child of their own, but also the other women and families in Provincetown.
Ruth ends up reaching out to her estranged daughter Olivia, who ends up visiting, in a bit of a personal crisis. Ben, Ruth’s ex-husband, also arrives thinking that Olivia and Ruth are in need of help.
Summer Longing explores the power of home and family, female friendships, and motherhood.
February 27, 2021
I don't know about you, but I am longing for summer and a great read by summer fiction master Jamie Brenner is just the way to imagine myself there early! In her latest, a woman who is retiring to Cape Cod finds her plans upended when someone leaves a baby girl on her doorstep and she becomes immersed in the tight knit local community as a result
May 3, 2020
Charming, engaging, and breezy!
Summer Longing is a warm, cosy tale that takes us to Provincetown, Cape Cod and into the life of Ruth Cooperman, a retired cosmetic entrepreneur whose retirement becomes a little more hectic than she expected when a newborn baby is abandoned on the doorstep of her rental house, the owners move back in to care for the mysterious bundle of joy, her estranged daughter arrives and decides to stay for an unspecified amount of time, and her ex-husband also pops in for a day or two.
The prose is light and fluid. The characters are multilayered, inclusive, quirky, and endearing. And the plot is a delightful mix of relationship dynamics, friendship, introspection, parenthood, support, forgiveness, love, drama, family, community, and new beginnings.
Overall, Summer Longing is another scintillating, satisfying, enjoyable treat by Brenner that once again highlights her innate ability to delve into all the psychological and emotional entanglements that exist between family members and friends.
Thank you to HBG Canada for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Summer Longing is a warm, cosy tale that takes us to Provincetown, Cape Cod and into the life of Ruth Cooperman, a retired cosmetic entrepreneur whose retirement becomes a little more hectic than she expected when a newborn baby is abandoned on the doorstep of her rental house, the owners move back in to care for the mysterious bundle of joy, her estranged daughter arrives and decides to stay for an unspecified amount of time, and her ex-husband also pops in for a day or two.
The prose is light and fluid. The characters are multilayered, inclusive, quirky, and endearing. And the plot is a delightful mix of relationship dynamics, friendship, introspection, parenthood, support, forgiveness, love, drama, family, community, and new beginnings.
Overall, Summer Longing is another scintillating, satisfying, enjoyable treat by Brenner that once again highlights her innate ability to delve into all the psychological and emotional entanglements that exist between family members and friends.
Thank you to HBG Canada for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 17, 2020
Every summer, I look forward to a new novel from Jamie Brenner. I love how she can take me to these idyllic beach towns through her stories. This time she took me back to Provincetown, which was also featured in The Forever Summer, along with some characters from that novel. I enjoyed visiting with them again, even though they were supporting characters this time.
Summer Longing is one of those books where you forget you're reading something because the characters feel so real that it seems more like you're watching friends interact. I loved the descriptions of Provincetown, as well. It provided a great way to escape while being cooped up at home. I liked all of the characters except for one, whom I was not expected to like anyway. I especially liked that there was some diversity within the group of characters.
The only concern I had was about some timing issues, which I hope got sorted out in the published version.
There were a lot of sweet moments that made me smile. They made it worthwhile when I was reading through some of the difficult or stressful moments. It provided a nice balance where things weren't perfect, but there was still good to come of it.
Summer Longing is a great story to read at any time of year! Another winner from Jamie Brenner!
Movie casting suggestions:
Ruth: Elizabeth Perkins
Olivia: Nina Dobrev
Jaci: Jenna Ortega
Marco: Diego Boneta
Elise: Lindy Booth
Fern: Tika Sumpter
Bianca: Dyana Ortelli
Tito: Esai Morales
Ben: Billy Campbell
Summer Longing is one of those books where you forget you're reading something because the characters feel so real that it seems more like you're watching friends interact. I loved the descriptions of Provincetown, as well. It provided a great way to escape while being cooped up at home. I liked all of the characters except for one, whom I was not expected to like anyway. I especially liked that there was some diversity within the group of characters.
The only concern I had was about some timing issues, which I hope got sorted out in the published version.
There were a lot of sweet moments that made me smile. They made it worthwhile when I was reading through some of the difficult or stressful moments. It provided a nice balance where things weren't perfect, but there was still good to come of it.
Summer Longing is a great story to read at any time of year! Another winner from Jamie Brenner!
Movie casting suggestions:
Ruth: Elizabeth Perkins
Olivia: Nina Dobrev
Jaci: Jenna Ortega
Marco: Diego Boneta
Elise: Lindy Booth
Fern: Tika Sumpter
Bianca: Dyana Ortelli
Tito: Esai Morales
Ben: Billy Campbell
June 17, 2020
Ruth just wants to enjoy retirement. She rents a cottage in Cape Cod looking for peace and quiet. All that changes the minute she finds a baby abandoned on her door step. This baby gathers the women of this community. Each with their secrets and heartache. This was so heart felt. I loved the characters and a of course the setting on Cape Cod. A beautiful story. Perfect summer read.
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
Dawnny-BookGypsy
Novels N Latte
Hudson Valley NY
May 5, 2020
4.5/5
You guys ready for another summer reading recommendation? Jamie Brenner writes some of the best beachy books and I look forward to her latest every single year. There’s something effortless and easy about the way she tells a story and once again, this one has everything I look for in a summertime read and more. There’s a pretty setting that is brought to life, complex and authentic characters, intrigue, romance and even a light mystery, what more could you want?!
If you need a pick me up in the form of a great book this is definitely a great option. This one really swept me away and made me forget about my own life as I got wrapped up in the dramas of the characters. Highly recommended by me and her other books are just as fantastic!
You guys ready for another summer reading recommendation? Jamie Brenner writes some of the best beachy books and I look forward to her latest every single year. There’s something effortless and easy about the way she tells a story and once again, this one has everything I look for in a summertime read and more. There’s a pretty setting that is brought to life, complex and authentic characters, intrigue, romance and even a light mystery, what more could you want?!
If you need a pick me up in the form of a great book this is definitely a great option. This one really swept me away and made me forget about my own life as I got wrapped up in the dramas of the characters. Highly recommended by me and her other books are just as fantastic!
May 12, 2020
A solid beach read. Perfect for readers who want a quiet, heartwarming read with a gorgeous coastal setting. I loved the community in the story as well as the focus on family, friendship, and second chances. Full review to come.
February 14, 2024
This is...
A heartwarming beach read.
Loving, quirky, complex characters.
And...
A mystery too (thankfully not a murder! – it has to do with a cute baby).
With...
A lovely setting.
And...
It is a heartwarming story about motherhood, friendship and a sense of belonging.
A heartwarming beach read.
Loving, quirky, complex characters.
And...
A mystery too (thankfully not a murder! – it has to do with a cute baby).
With...
A lovely setting.
And...
It is a heartwarming story about motherhood, friendship and a sense of belonging.
May 5, 2020
Ruth, after selling her cosmetics company, decides to retire to Provincetown, but unable to find a home to purchase she rents from Fern and Elise. Only one day after arriving in Provincetown, a newborn baby girl is left on Ruth's front porch, clearly whoever left the baby knew that Fern & Elise would take care of her.
What follows is how the tightly woven Provincetown community, led by Amelia, comes together to care for the baby, until the truth comes out.
"How fitting that Amelia was dressed as a comfort food.. She was such a comfort to them all."
Jamie Brenner has become a go-to, must-read author for me and this book did not disappoint. It had everything I look for in a book....a little mystery, a little drama, a little romance and lots of vivid descriptions of the setting.
I received an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
What follows is how the tightly woven Provincetown community, led by Amelia, comes together to care for the baby, until the truth comes out.
"How fitting that Amelia was dressed as a comfort food.. She was such a comfort to them all."
Jamie Brenner has become a go-to, must-read author for me and this book did not disappoint. It had everything I look for in a book....a little mystery, a little drama, a little romance and lots of vivid descriptions of the setting.
I received an advanced copy; all opinions are my own.
May 9, 2020
This book is a charming small town novel with a warm feel and is a perfect and peaceful beach read or the ideal book to binge read in a weekend.
June 10, 2020
Trigger Warning: Fertility issues
Jamie Brenner is back with another stellar beach read. Summer Longing hits you in all the feels, with many ways in which you can long for something. A relationship, a new look on life, a baby...
Ruth is ready for retirement in Provincetown, but things go wrong from the beginning. Finding a home on the coast is proving fruitless, her "landlords" cause problems from the first moment, and then a baby just shows up on her doorstep.
Before she knows it, Ruth is helping care for this sweet thing, while slowly becoming friends with the locals. Caring for the child even helps her to build the nerve to call her estranged daughter. As word of the baby gets out, tensions start to rise around town. Relationships and reputations are at stake, secrets will be found out.
Brenner, in her classic style, makes you feel as if you're one of the islanders, that their problems are your problems, and you are emotionally invested from page one.
Grab a chair, poured an iced tea, and sit down for a binge read. Summer is getting started.
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Jamie Brenner is back with another stellar beach read. Summer Longing hits you in all the feels, with many ways in which you can long for something. A relationship, a new look on life, a baby...
Ruth is ready for retirement in Provincetown, but things go wrong from the beginning. Finding a home on the coast is proving fruitless, her "landlords" cause problems from the first moment, and then a baby just shows up on her doorstep.
Before she knows it, Ruth is helping care for this sweet thing, while slowly becoming friends with the locals. Caring for the child even helps her to build the nerve to call her estranged daughter. As word of the baby gets out, tensions start to rise around town. Relationships and reputations are at stake, secrets will be found out.
Brenner, in her classic style, makes you feel as if you're one of the islanders, that their problems are your problems, and you are emotionally invested from page one.
Grab a chair, poured an iced tea, and sit down for a binge read. Summer is getting started.
I received an advanced copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
June 3, 2020
3.75⭐️ I loved Jamie Brenner’s Forever Summer but was pretty disappointed with the two follow ups The Husband Hour and Drawing Home. I enjoyed her latest much more. I think fans for Forever Summer will enjoy this one too.
April 27, 2020
Thanks to the publisher, via Netgalley, for an advance e-galley for honest review!
I generally liked Summer Longing, and felt that there was a lot of good heart in this story about family (and all the different ways it can be made and found), and felt that the message of slowing down and enjoying the important parts of life before you miss them was timely. It felt a little too long, and I think that some of the storylines could have been tightened up a bit, but this will be a reliable one to relax with and escape with this summer.
I generally liked Summer Longing, and felt that there was a lot of good heart in this story about family (and all the different ways it can be made and found), and felt that the message of slowing down and enjoying the important parts of life before you miss them was timely. It felt a little too long, and I think that some of the storylines could have been tightened up a bit, but this will be a reliable one to relax with and escape with this summer.
May 16, 2020
Ruth Cooperman is ready to retire, and because of her fond memories of the beachside town, Provincetown, she rents a house there while looking for a place to buy. When a baby is left on her doorstep, her plans for a quiet retirement are upended, and she'll turn to the eclectic group of women she's met on the island for help. This may not be what she wanted, but could it be what she needs? Summer Longing is Jamie Brenner at her best: an emotionally honest story about motherhood, friendship, and belonging.
May 24, 2020
2.5 Ruth has sold her cosmetics company and is retiring to Provincetown, RI. She is renting house from Fern and Elise who run a tea shop and have not been able to have a baby when one shows up on their doorstep. Their place above the tea shop is too small to accommodate the baby so they wind up moving back into the house with Ruth. Here is lots of tension as Fern wants to give up and Elise wants Fern to try and carry a baby as Elise cannot.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s estranged daughter Olivia (who felt Ruth abandoned her, always putting work before her family) who had been planning to leave her job (social media PR) to start her own company gets fired. She starts dating Marco (oyster fisher who is starting to catch seaweed and kelp (as he notes, nobody was eating kale 10 yrs ago!) to use in teas and as general product. Turns out Marco’s sister Jaci, a student at Princeton is the mom of the abandoned baby. She returns to Princeton, and Marco and Olivia get engaged and take the baby. BYW, Fern decides to try and carry the baby though we don’t know what happens. Sequel, I guess.
Ruth’s ex Ben comes to Ptown, where they originally met when Ben wanted to be a writer. In order to earn money, he went to med school and became an anesthesiologist and primary caregiver. Ruth realizes she still loves him, and they get back together and move back to Philadelphia or New York or wherever they’re from.
Very enjoyable, light summer read but pretty cliche and very pc with Fern and Elise biracial lesbian couple. I likely will not remember it next month.
Meanwhile, Ruth’s estranged daughter Olivia (who felt Ruth abandoned her, always putting work before her family) who had been planning to leave her job (social media PR) to start her own company gets fired. She starts dating Marco (oyster fisher who is starting to catch seaweed and kelp (as he notes, nobody was eating kale 10 yrs ago!) to use in teas and as general product. Turns out Marco’s sister Jaci, a student at Princeton is the mom of the abandoned baby. She returns to Princeton, and Marco and Olivia get engaged and take the baby. BYW, Fern decides to try and carry the baby though we don’t know what happens. Sequel, I guess.
Ruth’s ex Ben comes to Ptown, where they originally met when Ben wanted to be a writer. In order to earn money, he went to med school and became an anesthesiologist and primary caregiver. Ruth realizes she still loves him, and they get back together and move back to Philadelphia or New York or wherever they’re from.
Very enjoyable, light summer read but pretty cliche and very pc with Fern and Elise biracial lesbian couple. I likely will not remember it next month.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 27, 2020
Do your beach reads need to take place AT the beach?
I don’t think mine do... but it sure doesn't hurt!
SUMMER LONGING is definitely what I’d call the ultimate beach read!
It’s got:
• Idyllic summer beach town setting (Provincetown/Cape Cod)
• A bit of mystery (random baby left at a doorstep)
• Family drama (so. much. drama.)
• Friendships (love the ladies in this one!)
• Work junk (beach > work = always!)
• Mom love (cause moms rule!)
I definitely think those just might be the exact elements for a perfect beach read! These all come together in a sweet, and charming story that screams summer and is a wonderful escape whether you’re sitting on the sand, or at home on the couch!
I definitely recommend picking this one up!
I don’t think mine do... but it sure doesn't hurt!
SUMMER LONGING is definitely what I’d call the ultimate beach read!
It’s got:
• Idyllic summer beach town setting (Provincetown/Cape Cod)
• A bit of mystery (random baby left at a doorstep)
• Family drama (so. much. drama.)
• Friendships (love the ladies in this one!)
• Work junk (beach > work = always!)
• Mom love (cause moms rule!)
I definitely think those just might be the exact elements for a perfect beach read! These all come together in a sweet, and charming story that screams summer and is a wonderful escape whether you’re sitting on the sand, or at home on the couch!
I definitely recommend picking this one up!
January 26, 2020
Jamie Brenner brings the layers that I want in a summer beach reach time & time again. I greatly enjoyed this one, connected with the chapters & felt all the emotions of joy, laughter, and tears. Thank you to her & the Little Brown Team for an advance copy to enjoy.
April 15, 2020
Returning to Provincetown with Jamie Brenner is something I deeply looked forward to. Her other books, The Husband Hour, The Forever Summer and Drawing Home all succeeded in taking me away and escaping me into tiny island towns with big personalities who had interesting stories to tell. Summer Longing did not disapoint to do the same.
Main character Ruth Cooperman gets off the ferry at Provincetown ready to start a new chapter in her life. She has everything planned and has her eye on the prize of finally having her own time to relax and living in the beach front home of her dreams.
Except of course, nothing always goes as planned. What I loved about this book the most is the major plot twist. I could have read about Ruth and gotten to know the other characters for the entirity of the novel because I loved reading Brenner's superior character development. But alas every book needs a twist and this one did not disapoint!
Out of the blue, a babby appears in Ruth's life. And what follows is in no way part of her plan but still changes her life in ways she never imagined. Ruth's relationship with the baby leads her to new people she would have never connected with and gives her the opportunity to reconnect with one of the most important people in her life, her daughter.
Alliances are made, relationships are tested, and secrets are uncovered. But the unconditional love for a child in need just might bring Ruth and the women of Provincetown exactly what they have been longing for themselves.
I highly recommend this for your summer reading list! I recieved a copy of this book from Little Brown. All my opinions are my own.
Main character Ruth Cooperman gets off the ferry at Provincetown ready to start a new chapter in her life. She has everything planned and has her eye on the prize of finally having her own time to relax and living in the beach front home of her dreams.
Except of course, nothing always goes as planned. What I loved about this book the most is the major plot twist. I could have read about Ruth and gotten to know the other characters for the entirity of the novel because I loved reading Brenner's superior character development. But alas every book needs a twist and this one did not disapoint!
Out of the blue, a babby appears in Ruth's life. And what follows is in no way part of her plan but still changes her life in ways she never imagined. Ruth's relationship with the baby leads her to new people she would have never connected with and gives her the opportunity to reconnect with one of the most important people in her life, her daughter.
Alliances are made, relationships are tested, and secrets are uncovered. But the unconditional love for a child in need just might bring Ruth and the women of Provincetown exactly what they have been longing for themselves.
I highly recommend this for your summer reading list! I recieved a copy of this book from Little Brown. All my opinions are my own.
May 20, 2020
This book was the perfect balance of dark and light, love and loss. It was filled with strong women who actually supported one another through their struggles. It was the kind of book that makes you emotional but leaves you feeling happy.
I loved the ease of this book and wanted to be a part of this amazing community. I appreciated how Brenner actually drew on her own experiences in that community. I loved the part I really didn’t see coming that made my heart soar. I loved that everyone got a “happy ever after” but it may not have been what they envisioned.
This is my first book by Brenner, but I will definitely be catching up on her past work soon. I recommend this one when you’re looking for a book with heart and depth but also a happy ending.
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
May 9, 2020
Review to come at AAR.
July 6, 2020
This was SUCH AN AMAZING BOOK! A couple of characters really annoyed me with how they handled things BUT that makes it more real. People came be annoying in real life lol. They make dumb mistakes, but hopefully they learn and grow from it. I really enjoyed this story and writing style. I enjoyed the diversity of couples also. I will be thinking about these characters for a long time.
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