Emily Giffin’s recent release The Summer Pact is a thoughtful tale of survivor’s guilt and much, much more. This novel touched me so much that a spot is reserved for it on the Best Books of 2024 list. Yet, it is not a feel-good, easy summer read. Topics covered include alcoholism, suicide, infidelity, and parental/societal disproval. Furthermore, the author shines a spotlight on Millennials and their struggle to find themselves long after reaching adulthood.
At the heart of The Summer Pact is a response of three college friends after a close fourth commits suicide. Each carries guilt from not being there for their friend Summer. So, a pact was agreed on to not follow the same path without giving the others time to reach out. Hannah is the first to call for help after discovering her fiancée in bed with another just weeks before her wedding.
True to the agreement, Lainey and Tyson drop everything and fly to help. From this point on, the novel delves into the backstories of the three characters while the action propels each one forward towards discovery of where to go, how to act and just who they really are.
Giffin is outstanding in her non-judgmental approach to multiple topics. Open minded readers will appreciate the social twists presented in the story. Furthermore, the characters are so complex and vulnerable, one aches for their difficulties and celebrates their triumphs.
Perhaps there are families in this world where everything follows the norms of the 1950s. But for the rest, a novel such as The Summer Pact is refreshingly honest. To quote Reinhold Niebuhr: Change is the essence of life; be willing to surrender what you are for what you could become. Throughout The Summer Pact, Hannah, Lainey and Tyson do just that on their way forward on life’s path.
Meant to Be by Emily Giffin is a delightful contemporary romance. The love story between Cate and Joe could easily film as a chick flick. And is perfect for a summer beach book.
Joe Kingsley is a most eligible bachelor. Born into wealth and power, destined to forever be in the spotlight. He falls head over heels for Cate Cooper.
The character of Cate is much more complex. Matching her upbringing. But Cate is everything Joe needs.
The Big Apple is the central setting of Meant to Be. Although Cate’s early years are in Northern New Jersey. Meanwhile, Joe is most at home in The City. Yet the Eastern Shore of the Hamptons also come into play.
Anyone familiar with New York City will easily pick up on the vibe. There is a life pulse to NYC that one simply feels. This backdrop is the perfect setting for two individuals with such differing upbringings.
I am envious of writers such as Emily Giffin. Joe and Cate are so very real. Perhaps this can partially be attributed to the rotating point of view. However, the author is masterful at dialogue too. Each of the main characters capture the readers attention and heart. Can they overcome such diverse backgrounds?
The relationships with the secondary characters are also well-done. The overbearing and abusive step-father is not cliché. Nor is the best friend from Cate’s high school years. Perhaps the best twist of all is the character of Berry-soul sister to Joe.
Meant to Be is truly a romance released in hard cover. The hero is flawed but genuine. The heroine is a self-made success story. Both have insecurities. Their life together looks doomed. But fate intervenes. This feel-good story touches on several contemporary issues, most notable domestic abuse. But other themes, including service to country, forgiveness and redemption are incorporated.
I checked Meant to Be out from my local library. Emily Giffin is a new to me author and I highly enjoyed her work. I believe this is a stand-alone novel. If you fancy romantic tales, find a copy and enjoy.