A Warm Summer Escape: Book Review of Summer Light on Nantucket by Nancy Thayer

Summer Light on Nantucket blends laid-back summer charm with relatable family dynamics and the promise of new beginnings.

Acknowledgments:

Thank you to Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for the ARC of this audiobook. The thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.

Summary:

Blythe Benedict is content with her life in Boston, raising four teenagers and enjoying her steady routine. Every summer, she cherishes the family’s annual trip to Nantucket, but this year’s visit is anything but relaxing. Alongside managing teenage drama and her ex-mother-in-law’s declining health, Blythe faces a troubling secret about her ex-husband. Adding to the chaos, she reconnects with her high school sweetheart Aaden, only for a new romantic interest to complicate things further. Despite the unexpected challenges, Blythe leans on the love and support of her family to navigate this unpredictable summer.

My Thoughts:

Nantucket has long been one of my favourite settings for a summer read, and Nancy Thayer never fails to capture its charm. Her books always leave me dreaming of a breezy island escape, complete with sandy beaches, salty air, and a tight-knit community. Summer Light on Nantucket is no exception—it’s a gentle, heartwarming story with just enough drama to keep things interesting, and a reminder that growth and self-discovery don’t end with motherhood or middle age.

Blythe Benedict is a character I genuinely enjoyed following. A recently divorced mother of four, she’s navigating life with grace, raising teenagers (no easy task!), teaching part-time, and trying to keep some balance between selflessness and self-care. She’s lucky enough to split her time between a lovely home in Boston and her cherished inherited summer house on Nantucket. Every year, her family’s island getaway is a sacred tradition—but this summer proves to be unlike any other.

Between her ex-mother-in-law’s declining health and a few complicated secrets involving her ex-husband, Blythe has a full plate. On top of that, she reconnects with Aaden, her high-school sweetheart now living overseas, and meets Nick, a fellow teacher visiting the island. As she begins to open herself up to love again, Blythe starts to see herself as more than just “Mom.” She’s a woman in her own right, deserving of joy, connection, and even a little romance.

While there’s definitely some drama—both teen and adult—it’s handled in a way that feels grounded and real. I loved watching Blythe explore who she is outside of her roles as a mother and ex-wife. The story flows with the easy rhythm of summer, full of warmth, reflection, and second chances.

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook, beautifully narrated by Andi Arndt, whose calm and engaging voice brought Blythe’s perspective to life. Her tone is easy to settle into—perfect for this kind of heartfelt, beachy listen. I highly recommend the audiobook format if you enjoy being read to—it only adds to the relaxing feel of the story.

Final Thoughts:

Summer Light on Nantucket is a lovely reminder that it’s never too late to rediscover yourself. Whether you’re sitting on the beach or just longing for a little summer escape, this one’s a gentle, feel-good pick.

Other Books I’ve Reviewed Written by Nancy Thayer:

The Summer We Started Over

All The Days of Summer

Summer Love