"Enthralling family drama with multiple love stories."

Secrets and lies abound for the three McKenna sisters. Kate, the oldest, tries to hold the slowly disintegrating family together. Ashley, overwhelmed by irrational fears since she participated with her family in a sailboat race around the world, has reached an emotional breaking point. The youngest, Caroline, lives a wild and crazy life, trying to forget that fateful summer eight years ago - the summer the sisters and their obsessed father battled the elements and a harrowing storm that led to five deaths.

Foreign correspondent Tyler Jamison needs answers from the fearsome McKennas about the true events of the race. Masquerading as a freelance writer, he approaches Kate. She surprises him with a wall of resistance, but it doesn't deter Tyler. His curiosity is piqued and he has his own agenda. His need to unearth information will not allow him to be merciful to the McKenna family. Tyler must expose their lies in order to protect his family. Nothing, not even an appealing Kate, can deter him.

Tyler's probe into the past causes events to unfold that reveal unexpected realities. Each sister must revisit the tragic race and make peace with the past before she can embrace the future.

A wonderful storyteller, Ms. Freethy expertly draws readers into the character's strengths and flaws. An enthralling family drama with multiple love stories, this one belongs on your keeper shelf.

Reviewed by Suan Wilson
Courtesy Old Book Barn Gazette
Posted April 9, 2003

Read an Excerpt

There are secrets meant to be shared and those that must be kept forever ...

In SUMMER SECRETS bestselling author Barbara Freethy presents her most powerful contemporary novel -- the story of three unique sisters ... the secrets that bind them for life ... and the summer that will set them free.

"In the tradition of Lavyrle Spencer, gifted author Barbara Freethy creates an irresistible tale of family secrets, riveting adventure and heart-touching romance." Susan Wiggs

Summary

Bestselling author Barbara Freethy presents her most powerful contemporary novel -- the story of three unique sisters, the secrets that bind them for life, and the summer that will set them free.

Eight years ago, the three McKenna sisters, Kate, Ashley and Caroline, had their fifteen minutes of fame. Driven by their ambitious father, they won an around-the-world sailing race as teenagers. But something happened out on the turbulent sea -- during a fierce storm they could never forget.

Now Tyler Jamison has come to Castleton, a small picturesque island off the coast of Washington State, asking questions about the famous McKennas. But even as the sisters close ranks against the tenacious reporter, the past threatens to drown them in its wake. It will take Caroline's willingness to right a wrong, Ashley's struggle to face her greatest fears, and Kate's attempt to embrace life -- and love -- to finally calm the winds and stop the rain ...