The Stats
Title: Bad Summer People
Author: Emma Rosenblum
Narrated By: January Lavoy
Publisher: Flatiron Books (23 May 2023)
Time: 9 Hours 48 Mins
Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Contemporary, Mystery Thriller, Suspense
Trigger Warnings: Violence, Alcohol/Substance Abuse, Sexual Content, Profanity, Death & Grief, Workplace Harassment, Embezzlement
Read if you like: Gossip Girl, Anna K: A Love Story, White Lotus
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
duffRUNStough May 2023 TBR List
The Review
I originally put “Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum on my May 2023 TBR list because it screamed “White Lotus” vibes to me. My husband and I had binged watch both season and I was craving more stories of Rich People acting privileged. I was thrilled when I finally got of the Libby waitlist for “Bad Summer People” as mid-February is the perfect time to begin thinking of summer days.
While “Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum is a scintillating debut that takes readers on a rollercoaster ride through an exclusive summer haven on Fire Island, calling it a “mystery/thriller” is a bit of a stretch. Set against the backdrop of Salcombe, this novel unravels the tangled web of infidelity, backstabbing, and competitiveness that lurks beneath the surface of picture-perfect lives. But it isn’t until the final twist that you remember this “is” a suspense novel.
At the heart of the story are Jen Weinstein and Lauren Parker, two charismatic figures who reign supreme over the island’s social scene, alongside their husbands Sam and Jason. As the plot unfolds, Rosenblum expertly weaves together the lives of these characters, along with a captivating ensemble cast – each harboring their own secrets and desires.
What sets “Bad Summer People” apart is its masterful exploration of human nature. Although the sheer number of characters may be overwhelming at first, Rosenblum deftly navigates the complexities of privilege, jealousy, and betrayal, painting a vivid portrait of flawed individuals grappling with their inner demons. Through multiple narrators and shifting perspectives, she invites readers into the inner workings of a community where appearances can be deceiving and everyone has something to hide. These perspective shifts were made very clearly as well, so that I could easily follow along on the audiobook version. I often found myself empathizing with the residents of Salcombe, only to remind myself that I am far from being the level of financial stability they are.
Overall, “Bad Summer People” is a captivating and entertaining read that will completely shock you at the end. With its engaging characters, lush setting, and twisty plot, it’s the perfect book to devour poolside or beachside this summer. Emma Rosenblum has crafted a debut novel that is sure to leave readers eagerly awaiting her next literary offering.
Short Review (AKA TLDR)
Summary:
“Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum is an engaging and thrilling debut that unfolds the twisted dynamics of an elite social scene on Fire Island. While initially billed as a mystery/thriller, the novel’s strength lies in its profound exploration of human nature, privilege, and betrayal. Through a web of infidelity, backstabbing, and hidden desires, the story masterfully delves into the complexities of flawed characters and their interwoven lives, culminating in a shocking and memorable conclusion. With captivating narrators and a lush setting, this book promises to enthrall readers looking for a compelling poolside or beachside read.
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