Summer Longing by Jamie Brenner

Jamie Brenner's Summer Longing weaves a poignant tale set in picturesque Provincetown, where Ruth Cooperman, a retiree seeking solace, unexpectedly finds herself at the center of a heartwarming drama. Upon discovering a baby girl abandoned on her doorstep, Ruth's plans for a tranquil summer are replaced by a newfound purpose: caring for the infant with the help of her diverse group of neighbors.

Amelia Cabral, a matriarch haunted by past loss, finds herself deeply moved by the baby's arrival, while Elise Douglas, who had relinquished dreams of motherhood, sees a chance for redemption. Meanwhile, teenage Jaci Barros grapples with parental expectations amidst the town's evolving dynamics.

As Ruth navigates the challenges of motherhood after decades, she also reaches out to her estranged daughter, Olivia, hoping to reconcile their fractured relationship. Throughout the summer, bonds strengthen among the women of Provincetown as they rally around the baby, uncovering buried secrets and testing their deepest desires.

Summer Longing explores themes of unconditional love, the complexities of motherhood, and the quest for belonging. Brenner's storytelling deftly captures the emotional intricacies of familial relationships and the transformative power of community support. Against the backdrop of Provincetown's vibrant coastal charm, the novel resonates with heartfelt moments and resonant themes of forgiveness and renewal.

With its compelling narrative and rich character development, Summer Longing promises readers an evocative journey into the intertwined lives of women bound together by compassion, hope, and the enduring bonds of family.