Summer Light on Nantucket

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes at the premise—wealthy family, picturesque island, *another* story about healing through sea air. But *Summer Light on Nantucket* won me over by sidestepping clichés at every turn. Thayer’s strength is her dialogue, which crackles with authenticity, especially in the scenes between estranged siblings. When the protagonist’s daughter snaps, *“You don’t get to play the martyr just because you showed up,”* it stings because we’ve all heard (or said) some version of it. The romance subplot, while predictable, works because it’s treated as a side dish, not the main course—refreshing in a genre that often prioritizes love over all else. Andi Arndt’s performance is *almost* flawless. Her voices are distinct without veering into caricature, and she nails the novel’s emotional beats, particularly in the quieter moments (a phone call where a character finally admits *“I missed you”* had me pausing to collect myself). My two critiques: First, the production’s audio levels occasionally dip during outdoor scenes, forcing me to crank the volume. Second, the ending—while realistic—feels *too* abrupt for a book that otherwise savors its pacing. Still, this is a standout listen for anyone who wants their summer escape with a side of sharp-edged truth. Just don’t expect pure fluff; the light here casts shadows, and that’s what makes it memorable.