Bonasia’s second novel is set against the background of a simple clam bar open for the summer crowd on Cape Cod. The characters are drawn with the complexity they might share in life and thus, are flawed, view their small world from their developmental perch, struggle to deal with the death of a young woman/co-worker, are perplexed by the personality (and often the decisions and behavior) of the woman who owns the place. This woman must face truths about her marriage which ended in the death of her young husband many years ago while she embarks on a relationship with a long lost love about whom there are many mysteries and allows herself to enter relationships that she previously denied herself. One of the unexpected treasures of the novel is her journey with a great aunt diagnosed with dementia, the decisions that are made about her care, the heart ache involved, and the grace and dignity of both as they acknowledge this sentinel shift in their lives. Not a great book in my opinion but an easy summer read. For the main character Mary, everything complicated in her life seems to collide at once. I didn't like Mary much which probably had something to do with my overall opinion of the book. In spite of running a successful restaurant, Mary is deficient in a number of other ways. I did like the storyline that followed her great-aunt's diagnosis of Alzheimers and ultimate decline...I found it pretty realistic. I found the book overall pretty predictable.
What do You think about Summer Shift (2010)?
Couldn't finish this one. On page 113 and still bored. Time to start something new.
—Jordan
was a nice little read, nothing exciting. a nice message.
—Jazzzzzzzz
Pretty good book but ended so abruptly.
—MarySabrinaS
