A review by bakingbookworm
The Summer That Made Us by Robyn Carr

reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This is the second Robyn Carr book I've listened too in the past few weeks. I enjoy these easy-listen, contemporary fiction novels that include family dysfunction and drama.

The Summer That Made Us centres around a family who traditionally spent idyllic summers at their lake house until tragedy suddenly strikes during an already tumultuous summer. The family is torn apart and it isn't until decades later, that they return to the lake house and the memories it holds. Carr provides insight on the large cast which enabled me to sympathize with the different characters and their not always stellar life decisions. 

Since I listened to this family drama so soon after listening to Carr's The Life She Wants, some of the characters and storylines got a bit muddled in my head because they are both filled with familial angst, long-held family feuds and some romance t'boot. My bad. Regardless, this was an enjoyable family drama that held my attention. I am not reader who sheds tears easily, but one scene made me quite misty-eyed as it brought up a loss in my own life. 

While this book has a summery feel, readers will enjoy this book year-round if they're in the mood for family drama.