03 Jul Book Review of Slow Burn Summer
Slow Burn Summer: A Comedic Journey Through Life and Second Chances
Josie Silver has always had a knack for crafting heartfelt narratives that linger long after turning the last page. So when I caught wind of her latest offering, Slow Burn Summer, I was immediately intrigued. Would this be another tear-jerker, or perhaps a delightful rom-com? Spoiler alert: it leans more into the comedy realm, dazzling us with a refreshing take on life and love post-heartbreak.
At the heart of this story is Kate Elliott, a 39-year-old former teen actress whose life has taken a rather tumultuous turn. After a seemingly flawless marriage crumbles due to her husband’s infidelity, Kate finds herself navigating an unfamiliar world solo, all while her daughter flies the nest for college. The premise is intriguing and relatable — many of us have had to reassess our lives after significant losses.
What struck me the most was Kate’s character. With her unapologetically open personality, she isn’t just a protagonist; she’s a friend we all wish we had. Silver beautifully captures her quirks and emotional depth, making Kate incredibly easy to resonate with. It’s hard not to want to wrap her in a comforting embrace as she stumbles through awkward job interviews and battles with her own insecurities. I genuinely adored her, and I can wholeheartedly say her characterization deserves 10 stars! Her interactions with her sister Liv — who steals scenes with her unwavering support — add a delightful layer of warmth and humor.
However, when it comes to the romance between Kate and Charlie Francisco, the son of her former agent, things get a bit murky. While their chemistry simmers beneath the surface, I found the romance less robust compared to the rich character development. Their relationship feels more like a genuine attraction between two people grappling with the aftermath of painful divorces rather than a deeply rooted romance. This nuance can be puzzling if you’re expecting a traditional love story, but perhaps it’s a reflection of the pressures and complexities of adult relationships, serving as a reminder that love can be messy and complicated.
Silver’s writing style shines, filled with a refreshing sarcasm and humorous undertones that made me chuckle and engaged throughout. There were pivotal moments where her sharp wit interlaced with emotional depth, particularly when exploring themes of self-discovery and resilience after heartbreak. The pacing matched the tone perfectly — quick, snappy, and dotted with laugh-out-loud moments.
Ultimately, I’ve come to see Slow Burn Summer as more women’s fiction and comedy than romance, which might explain why I’m rounding up my rating to a solid 4 stars — purely for my unconditional adoration of Kate! This is a noteworthy shift from Josie Silver’s previous works, leaning less into trauma and more towards an entertaining, hopeful narrative. I genuinely hope she continues this trend, creating colorful characters infused with humor and charm.
If you’re on the lookout for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and nod in agreement, Slow Burn Summer is an excellent choice. It perfectly captures the chaos of adulthood’s unexpected turns and the power of friendship and self-reflection. Kate’s journey is a reminder that while life can throw curveballs, it also offers the opportunity for second chances and laughter along the way. Happy reading!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Ballantine/Dell for the digital review copy!
