Review: These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean
From the moment I first saw the cover of These Summer Storms, the latest offering from Sarah MacLean, I felt an undeniable magnetism. There’s something about the juxtaposition of a sunny paradise and tumultuous emotional landscapes that promised a deep dive into complicated family dynamics—something I, like many readers, find utterly compelling. MacLean has long captivated us with her historical romances, but here she invites us into the contemporary world with a lighter touch, even while exploring heavy themes.
At its heart, These Summer Storms unfurls the intricate tapestry of the Storm family, led by the not-so-beloved billionaire Franklin Storm, whose death pulls Alice, our protagonist, back into the fold—one she hasn’t wanted to be part of for years. The idea of siblings, lost to time and distance, reuniting on a secluded island is enticing enough, but what truly drew me in were the intricacies of inheritance and familial obligation. Each sibling faces a unique challenge, a task revealing painful truths, buried secrets, and the struggle to forge connections in the midst of chaos.
MacLean’s gift for characterization shines through here. Alice, the artist, grappling with daddy issues (because let’s be honest, who isn’t?), serves as the emotional compass of the narrative. The nuanced depiction of her siblings—Greta, the caretaker; Sam, the comedic relief in a crumbling marriage; and Emily, the enigmatic youngest—adds depth to the unfolding drama. And then there’s their mother, Elisabeth—a multi-faceted character who kept me on my toes, alternating between love and loathing, which made for a compelling read.
Now, let’s talk about Jack, the “fixer” whose chemistry with Alice simmers tantalizingly beneath the surface. He embodies all the MacLean hallmarks: a stern demeanor coupled with a soft spot for Alice that ignites a slow-burn romance. It’s clear that while this may not be a romance in the traditional sense, it certainly has its sizzling moments that caught me pleasantly off guard. Their relationship felt both authentic and earned—one I found myself rooting for deeply.
Narratively, MacLean balances the complexities of sibling rivalries and romantic tensions effortlessly. Her prose is sharp and engaging, maintaining a brisk pace that kept me invested from the first page to the last. The dialogues are punchy, sparking with wit, a hallmark of MacLean’s style that fans will appreciate. One scene in particular, involving a challenge set forth by Franklin, stood out as both hilarious and painfully relatable—further encapsulating the clever balancing act she pulls off throughout the novel.
What stays with me most is the overarching theme of growth amid imperfection. The Storms’ journey doesn’t tidy itself up in a neat little bow, and I found that beautifully refreshing. Life is messy, families are complicated, and MacLean embraces that messiness wholeheartedly.
In conclusion, These Summer Storms is a blend of evocative storytelling and dynamic characters, making it an ideal read for anyone who appreciates family dramas laced with a pinch of humor and emotional heft. Fans of contemporary fiction and those who adore MacLean’s unique narrative voice will find themselves swept away alongside Alice and her family. As the title suggests, expect some emotional storms, but also the promise of personal growth through tumult. This book encouraged me to reflect on my own family dynamics, a testament to MacLean’s skill in crafting relatable characters and compelling narratives. So, if you’re on the lookout for something both heartfelt and a tad soapy, hurry up and grab a copy—you won’t want to miss this one!
Discover more about These Summer Storms on GoodReads >>