Hey, Beneath the Book clubbers! Let’s talk about ‘These Summer Storms’ by Sarah MacLean.

By SARA VANDEN BERGE

Beneath the Book Club’s August read, These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean, was an unexpected hit in my book. (Pun intended.)

There were no big thrills or mystery to weed through, but there was plenty of drama that surrounded the carefully curated characters that made up the Storm family.

Strong and independent, we are introduced to the main character Alice Storm as she boards a train to her estranged father’s funeral.

I fell in love with her right away.

Of course, she bumps into a handsome man along the way, has a one-nighter with him then heads to her family’s estate to say her final goodbye and find out what’s in the will.

But her manipulative father’s games continue even after the grave.

When she joins her mother and siblings on the family’s island, they all learn that the will calls for a final challenge.

(Oh, and the one-night stand guy is charged with overseeing the games. Devious.)

This wealthy family is full of secrets, heartache, love, grief and all the things that sometimes make being part of a family equal parts tough and rewarding.

What did you think?

1. Would you recommend this book to someone? Why or why not?

Absolutely. There was great character development, an intriguing story line and beautiful setting.

2. What kind of reader would most enjoy this book?

Someone who likes a well-rounded theme and can relate to the complicated dynamic of a large family.

3. Did you find this author’s writing style easy to read? How long did it take you to get into the book?

Loved her writing style. I was hooked from the moment it started.

4. How, if at all, did this book relate to your own life? Did it evoke any memories or create any connections for you?

It did. I have lost both of my parents, my mom just six months ago. And I could relate to the grief that comes with a complicated relationship.

5. If this book was adapted into a movie, who would you cast in the leading roles?

Ann Hathaway = Alice Storm

Chris Hemsworth = Jack Dean

Jane Fonda = Elisabeth Storm

6. If you could ask the author one question about this book, what would it be?

Did Alice and Jack stay together and live happily ever after?

7.  Rate this book on a scale of 1 to 10.

I give it a solid nine!