My Review
NICU nurse Daisy Stevens moves to Cape Carolina to start a new life. On her first day at the hospital, she meets Mason Thaysden, who brings in a newborn baby found in a dumpster. They both grow attached to the baby and Daisy works to foster (and possibly adopt her). She grows close to Mason, and his family, especially his eccentric Aunt Tilly. Then something happens that threatens everything . . .
I wanted to read Summer State of Mind because I love Southern fiction and Summer reads. I had not read Kristy Woodson Harvey before, but have heard how good her books are.
This was such a lovely read! It wasn't the light Summer beach read I expected. There are a lot of layers to the story. The main characters - Daisy, Mason, and Tilly - all have losses in their past that have shaped their present: a tragic loss at the hospital, the loss of a longed-for career, the loss of a much-loved partner. As they go forward, they occasionally slide back a bit as well. But they do go forward, and I found their stories compelling and ultimately uplifting as well.
The book is told in alternating viewpoints, so readers get to know all three characters through the novel. The author does a wonderful job at voice and characterization.
I really loved Summer State of Mind and will look for more books by Kristy Woodson Harvey. I recommend this novel for fans of Southern fiction, Summer settings, and women's fiction. Five stars!
Thanks to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for an advanced reading copy of this book.
Thanks to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for an advanced reading copy of this book.