The Summer We Made Promises
by Hope Holloway
Seven summers. Two families. One beach house. And a diary that holds all the secrets.
As the sun burns bright on the white sands of Destin, Vivien’s love life takes an unexpected turn. She finds herself torn between two very different men, both offering something she thought she’d lost—security, excitement, and the chance to finally choose herself.
Maggie and Jo Ellen, best friends turned bitter enemies, become unlikely allies. When they discover the last piece of the puzzle of their past, they are forced to question everything they thought they knew about the men they married. Were the promises they made to their husbands never meant to be kept after all?
But it is Lacey whose life is upended the most because of a promise she’d made to Tessa. While chasing a long-buried secret, Lacey finds herself involved in a connection that could not only betray a dear friend, but shatter her heart.
The Summer We Made Promises is a story of friendship, forgiveness, and the fragile vows we make to one another…and what happens when breaking them means risking everything.
The Destin Diaries — A brand new heartwarming family saga co-written by bestselling women’s fiction authors Hope Holloway and Cecelia Scott.
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Martial Peak Reviews
Hope Holloway's The Summer We Made Promises is a compelling narrative that intricately weaves together the lives of two families over the course of seven summers at a shared beach house in Destin. This novel, co-written with Cecelia Scott, is a testament to the complexities of human relationships, the weight of secrets, and the enduring power of friendship and forgiveness.
At the heart of the story is Vivien, whose love life becomes a focal point as she navigates the emotional terrain between two very different men. This love triangle is not just about romance; it is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment. Vivien's character is crafted with depth, showcasing her vulnerabilities and strengths as she grapples with the choices that could redefine her future. Holloway skillfully portrays Vivien's internal conflict, making her a relatable and engaging protagonist.
The dynamic between Maggie and Jo Ellen adds another layer of intrigue to the narrative. Once best friends turned adversaries, their unexpected alliance is both surprising and satisfying. Their journey from animosity to understanding is a poignant exploration of how time and shared experiences can heal old wounds. The discovery of a crucial piece of their past forces them to reevaluate their marriages and the promises they made. This subplot is a powerful commentary on the nature of commitments and the sometimes harsh reality that not all promises are meant to be kept.
Lacey's storyline is perhaps the most heart-wrenching. Her promise to Tessa and the subsequent unraveling of a long-buried secret bring forth themes of loyalty and betrayal. Lacey's character is a study in contrasts, as she balances her sense of duty with her own desires. Her journey is a reminder of the fragile nature of trust and the potential consequences of breaking it. Holloway's portrayal of Lacey's emotional turmoil is both realistic and empathetic, making her struggles resonate deeply with readers.
One of the novel's strengths is its exploration of the theme of friendship. The relationships between the women are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the real-life intricacies of female friendships. Holloway and Scott delve into the nuances of these connections, highlighting how they can be both a source of strength and a cause of conflict. The authors' ability to capture the essence of these relationships is a testament to their understanding of human nature.
Another significant theme is forgiveness. Throughout the novel, characters are faced with the challenge of forgiving others and themselves. This theme is handled with sensitivity and insight, offering readers a chance to reflect on their own experiences with forgiveness. The authors suggest that forgiveness is not just an act of grace towards others, but a necessary step towards personal healing and growth.
The setting of Destin, with its sun-drenched beaches and serene atmosphere, serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding drama. The beach house is more than just a physical space; it is a symbol of the characters' shared history and the promises that bind them. Holloway's vivid descriptions of the setting enhance the narrative, immersing readers in the idyllic yet emotionally charged environment.
In comparison to other family sagas, such as Elin Hilderbrand's Nantucket series or Mary Alice Monroe's Beach House series, The Summer We Made Promises stands out for its intricate character development and the seamless blending of multiple storylines. While Hilderbrand and Monroe excel in creating atmospheric settings and engaging plots, Holloway and Scott's collaboration brings a unique depth to the emotional and psychological aspects of their characters.
Overall, The Summer We Made Promises is a beautifully crafted novel that will appeal to fans of women's fiction and family dramas. Its exploration of friendship, forgiveness, and the complexities of human relationships is both thought-provoking and heartwarming. Holloway and Scott have created a narrative that is as engaging as it is insightful, leaving readers with much to ponder long after the final page is turned.
For those seeking a story that delves into the intricacies of promises and the impact of secrets, this novel is a must-read. It is a reminder that while promises may be fragile, the bonds of friendship and love can endure even the most challenging of circumstances.
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