The Summer House
by Lauren K. Denton
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Pub Date Jun 02 2020 | Archive Date Jun 30 2025
Thomas Nelson--FICTION | Thomas Nelson
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Description
It's never too late to start over. The Summer House weaves Lauren K. Denton’s inviting Southern charm around a woman’s journey to find herself in a small beach town—with a little help from the local retirement community.
Lily Bishop wakes up one morning to find a good-bye note and divorce papers from her husband on the kitchen counter. Having just moved to Alabama for his job only weeks before, Lily is devastated. New to town and knowing no one, Lily finds herself in desperate need of a job and a new place to live. When Lily hears that a hair stylist is needed at small retirement community, she decides to apply.
Rose Carrigan built the small retirement village of Safe Harbor years ago—just before her husband ran off with his assistant. Now she runs a tight ship, making sure the residents follow her strict rules. Rose keeps everyone at arm’s length, including her own family. But when Lily shows up asking for a job and a place to live, Rose’s cold exterior begins to thaw.
Lily and Rose form an unlikely friendship, and Lily’s salon soon becomes the place where the colorful residents share town gossip and a few secrets. Lily soon finds herself drawn to Rose’s nephew, Rawlins—a single dad and shrimper who’s had some practice at starting over—and one of the residents may be carrying a torch for Rose as well.
Neither Lily nor Rose is where she expected to be, but the summer makes them both wonder if there’s more to life and love than what they’ve experienced so far.
The Summer House is a:
- Cozy novel full of charm and heart that’s perfect vacation reading
- Celebration of new beginnings, friendship, and family
- Sweet, clean romance set on the Gulf Coast
“The perfect summer read! Situated on the Alabama Gulf Coast, you’ll feel the sun, taste the salt, and linger with new friends—you won’t want to leave. And with lyrical prose and rich characters, The Summer House is a beautifully poignant reminder that we are never too young to find a good place to stand nor too old to start over.”—Katherine Reay, bestselling author of The Printed Letter Bookshop and Dear Mr. Knightley
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9780785232537 |
PRICE | $26.99 (USD) |
PAGES | 368 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews

I am not sure why this book is NOT yet rated 5 stars by everyone! It was the best read I have had in awhile! This book had me hooked from the very begging to the end! It was romantic, heartbreaking, suspenseful! There was no smut. Such a very quick clean read. If you’re looking for a new book for your book club I highly recommend this book! I am now a new fan of this author! I will be looking into more books from her from here on out! Really hoping there is a sequel

The Summer House was such a breath of fresh air. I loved each character and how you felt like you knew them. I would highly recommend this to everyone.

I enjoyed this read, from beginning to end, and would have loved to continue on in their lives!
As the story begins, a young woman and her husband are starting a new life on the Alabama coast! The picture looks rosy, but what happens next puts them both on different paths. Lily Bishop life is about to change, and she is about to take control, and stand on her own two feet.
Then there is Rose, she owns a retirement community, which I would love to live at! Can these two help each other heal? We journey along with lots of surprises, and a sweet little girl, who wants to do cartwheels.
I loved this place, and the characters whom lived in the community were delightful, and entertaining!
There is a lot of hidden hurts here, and then their is forgiveness. Once you arrive here you won't want to leave!
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson, and was not required to give a positive review.

Lily wakes up one morning with her husband gone and divorce papers on her pillow. they have just moved to Alabama and she doesn't know anyone. she makes friends with Rose. good story

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! It was such a beautiful and heartwarming read. I loved that it was a clean romance, with no spicy scenes, even though the story explored themes of second chances, redemption, and finding love again.
There was a great balance between Rose’s and Lily’s stories. Two women from different generations, both facing personal challenges and striving to rebuild their lives. It was inspiring to see them seek healing, each navigating pain, regret, and broken relationships in their own ways.
Lily’s character development was so satisfying. She rediscovered her strength and voice. Rose, on the other hand, had to let down her emotional walls, confront her past, and mend the relationships that mattered. It was raw and honest, and I appreciated that the story wasn’t just centered on romance, but on healing, resilience, bravery, and redemption.
I also loved the minor characters, they were beautifully written and added so much depth. Every character felt important and real. Their stories didn’t overshadow the main plot, but enriched it. I felt like I was truly in Safe Harbor Village with them, and I didn’t want to leave. I could feel their pain, understand their decisions, and root for their healing.
This was such a reflective and moving book. The writing was strong, the pacing felt right, and the emotional payoff was worth it. I absolutely recommend it.
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