The Summer Place

Weiner (That Summer) creates relatable characters in this summer story filled with relationship drama, figuring out what they want out of life, and secrets. The Danhauser family members are each battling their own demons: Sarah is feeling a strain in her marriage since her husband, Eli, has pulled away from her. Her stepdaughter Ruby is ready to be an adult and feels like the obvious next step is marrying her pandemic boyfriend. All are hiding secrets, and the authenticity of the characters drives this novel. Actress Sutton Foster (Younger) narrates a robust set of characters, giving each enough distinction so listeners know easily who is speaking in this multi-perspective story. These characters deal with death, heartbreak, love, tears, outbursts, and more, and Foster conveys all this without resorting to overperformance. Listeners should be aware that some instances could make them uncomfortable, including marital infidelity and possibly perceived derogatory comments to Jewish families on Cape Cod.