Summer Secrets

May 4, 2015
Green (Saving Grace) offers an unflinchingly realistic view of the havoc that alcoholism can wreak in one's life. Cat has always felt there was something wrong with her, that she doesn't fit inâuntil the first swig of vodka as a teenager makes her feel as if she can conquer the world. Fast-forward to her 20s, when Cat is working as a journalist in London and having regular alcoholic blackouts. When Cat meets Jason, the love of her life, he encourages her to get sober. But after her mother admits a shocking truth to Cat, she learns that she has a second family on Nantucketâwhere an alcohol-induced episode leads to a relationship-shattering moment, and Cat once again gets lost in a bottle. When Cat, now in her late 30s, returns to Nantucket and tries to make amends for what she's done, she is forced to face the sad truth that not everyone may accept her apologies, heartfelt as they might be. Green doesn't hold back on the hurt feelings or broken relationships that grip families dealing with alcoholism. This harrowing novel offers hard-earned redemption and healing.

Jane Green's English accent is perfectly fitting for the London journalist featured in her audiobook novel. After a shocking family secret is revealed, Cat Coombs finds herself relying on alcohol to relieve her emotional pain-- until she hits rock bottom and makes a terrible mistake while visiting family in Nantucket. Now in her 40s, Cat is a single mother who is trying to stay sober and earn forgiveness for the mistake that haunts her. Green knows exactly when to put vocal emphasis on the important parts of Cat's life, adding vulnerability to Cat's voice in general and a tone of embarrassment whenever Cat thinks of her past mistakes. Green's soothing, smooth voice and intriguing story are worth devouring. D.Z. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine