‘Summer Rental’ a light-hearted novel of friendship

Since it doesn’t look like summer is ever going to end, there is still plenty of time to get in some great summer reading, especially since the kids will be off to school soon.

Mary Kay Andrews is well-known for her wonderful novels set during those warm days, and this year is no exception with her latest book, “Summer Rental,” being the perfect, light-hearted read.

Ellis, Julia and Dorie have been friends since childhood. Now in their mid-30s, each woman finds herself at a crossroads.

Ellis is unsure what her future holds now that she's been “downsized” from her financial job. Except for a short but disastrous marriage, she has dedicated her life to her career and can't see the direction her future will take.

Dorie believed she was lucky to be married to the love of her life until a horrible betrayal revealed an agonizing truth. She arrives at the beach house carrying secrets, unsure about her next step.

Fashion model Julia loves her bohemian European life with her long-term lover. Now he wants to settle down and she's not sure if that's the life she wants or even deserves.

The women decide to get together at a summer rental house on the North Carolina shore. Unfortunately, the house, christened “Ebbtide,” has seen better days and the absentee landlord is slow to respond to requests and complaints. The house also comes with Ty, the oh-so-handsome guy who lives over the garage and seems drawn to Ellis.

The ladies also find themselves sharing a home with Madison, a woman willing to pay cash for the extra room. What they don't know is that she is really Maryn Shackleford, on the run from an abusive husband intent on hiding his criminal behavior. In her own way, each woman will have to choose her path toward a better future.

The lively characters of “Summer Rental” are complex, genuine and strong, but the interplay between the longtime friends is what really will endear this novel to readers.