The Summer List

Publisher's Summary

In the tradition of Judy Blume’s Summer Sisters, The Summer List is a tender yet tantalizing novel about two friends, the summer night they fell apart, and the scavenger hunt that reunites them decades later - until the clues expose a breathtaking secret that just might shatter them once and for all.

Laura and Casey were once inseparable: as they floated on their backs in the sunlit lake, as they dreamed about the future under starry skies, and as they teamed up for the wild scavenger hunts in their small California lakeside town. Until one summer night, when a shocking betrayal sent Laura running through the pines, down the dock, and into a new life, leaving Casey and a first love in her wake.

But the past is impossible to escape, and now, after 17 years away, Laura is pulled home and into a reunion with Casey she can’t resist - one last scavenger hunt. With a twist: this time, the list of clues leads to the settings of their most cherished summer memories. From glistening Jade Cove to the vintage skating rink, each step they take becomes a bittersweet reminder of the friendship they once shared. But just as the game brings Laura and Casey back together, the clues unravel a stunning secret that threatens to tear them apart....

Mesmerizing and unforgettable, Amy Mason Doan’s The Summer List is about losing and recapturing the person who understands you best - and the unbreakable bonds of girlhood.

©2018 Amy Mason Doan (P)2018 Harlequin Enterprises, Limited

A deeply touching story of two girls coming of age

Although the elements of the story are starkly dramatic (cults, runaways, underage sex, drugs, secrets), the narrative runs smoothly and lightly without vulgar voyeurism. Two girls in different families become friends at the beginning of the summer before high school. They become inseparable, unaware of the circumstances that link them. Laura’s parents are older and conservative, well respected. Casey is the new girl with an eccentric, flamboyant mother. Alex flouts her unconventional and irresponsible behavior.
The relationship between Laura and Casey is delightfully written. The secrets, lies and misunderstandings leading to the rupture and reunion of Laura and Casey are slowly revealed. The story and the narrative kept me riveted until the end.

1 of 1 people found this review helpful

Just OK

The ending had a sweet turn. I appreciated the ending & the smile it brought. I listened while taking a two-week road trip, full of stops and starts. Therefore, I had to stop and start the book, making it somewhat difficult to follow or feel attached to. My only complaint about one of the narrators was her “male voice.” It was too unnatural and distracting. I will read another from this author...it was simply not one of my favorite stories.

Really Great Book

I loved this book. I'm usually a mystery kind of gal but for some reason this book caught my eye. I am glad it did! It is an unlikely story about families, friendships with a hint of mystery. I will look for other books by this author.

Love, love, loved this story and production

It’s the best story I’ve read (listened to) in a very long time. It’s a story about friendship, love and forgiveness with a bit of mystery involved. Sure it is a bit tidy, but it’s still a fantastic story to appreciate. I will eagerly await the Amy Mason Doan’s next book which is being released on 6/4/19.

Sweet, enduring story of friendship

Love it!
Narrator and was excellent
This book will stay with me forever !!
Ending was perfect

Meh

First half was good.
I really didn’t care about ANY of them by the end.

Great engaging story teller!

I listened to The Summer List over spring break and really enjoyed it! I liked the characters right away and getting to know them and was immediately pulling for them. Enjoyed it right up to the ending twist! (Really good narrator too!)

Loved this book

I loved this story. Kate Rudd is awesome. I enjoyed the characters and the relationship of the girls.