That Certain Summer Book Review

SUMMARY:  Two very different sisters . . .  an unexpected homecoming . . .  one unforgettable summer
     Karen and Val are family - yet they're anything but close.  Karen has carried the burden of responsibility for her aging mother ever since her sister left town years ago to pursue a career in theater.  But Val had other reasons for moving away - as well as a secret to keep - and coming home has never been an option . . . until their mother suffers a stroke.
     Reunited in their hometown, Karen and Val must grapple with past mistakes as they care for their ailing mother.  When two handsome men enter the picture, the summer takes on a surprising new dimension.  As their lives intersect, can each of them learn how to forgive, let go, and move on?  And strengthened by the healing power of faith, might they also find the courage to love?
     With her trademark compelling characters and heartwarming hope, award-winning author Irene Hannon pens an inspiring true-to-life tale of complex relationships, the search for forgiveness, and the life-changing process of finding love.

REVIEW:  Irene Hannon's suspense novels are wonderful so I eagerly anticipated her newest novel.  I was not disappointed.   The interaction between the sisters was refreshing.  I like how they faced their difference, embraced them, learned from each other and became better people.  I like how they did not hold onto grudges but let their relationship flourish.   I loved how Karen finally learned how to stand up for herself and found her voice, literally.  By doing so, she changed her relationship with those around her for the better.  Val had her own issues to deal with, trying to do it on her own.  Once she told her sister about them, she found sharing her burden with others who cared helped her put an end to some past hurt and was able to finally get to a better personal place.
     This book was an easy read and exceptionally written.  A great summer read!

This book was provided by Revell for review without compensation.

Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of over forty books, including more than two dozen contemporary romance novels and the Heroes of Quantico and Guardians of Justice suspense series.  Her books have garnered many honors, including two RITA Awards from Romance Writers of America, a Carol Award, and two Reviewers' Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews magazine.  In addition, Booklist included one of her novels in its "Top 10 Inspirational Fiction" list for 2011.  She lives in Missouri.  For more information, please visit www.irenehannon.com.