Book Review: “Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum

Welcome, dear readers, to our very first thrilling (or maybe not-so-thrilling) book review! Today, we’re diving into “Bad Summer People” by Emma Rosenblum. This mystery thriller hit the shelves in May 2023 and promises a cocktail of gossip, scandal, and a dash of murder, all set against the backdrop of a picture-perfect summer getaway. Grab your sunscreen and let’s get started!

Quick Summary

First things first—the cover! Isn’t it just screaming, “Pick me up and get ready for a wild ride!”? The title, “Bad Summer People,” intrigued me right away. I mean, who doesn’t love a good summer scandal? And fun fact: the story kicks off on my birthday! Coincidence? I think not.

I went in expecting a light, entertaining read. Goodreads hinted at a dark comedy, so I buckled up for some laughs mixed with the mystery. Did it meet my expectations? Well, let’s just say I got more than I bargained for.

Likes

Fire Island sounds dreamy. I could totally picture myself there, minus the drama.

Dislikes

Too many characters, too much unnecessary detail, and a plot that moves at a snail’s pace. I kept checking to make sure this was a murder mystery. Spoiler alert: the murder is fashionably late.

Quotes

Memorable quotes? None that really stood out. The focus on internal thoughts and endless descriptions left little room for impactful lines.

Fire Island is the setting—a small, exclusive spot where everyone knows everyone, and secrets don’t stay hidden for long. Think cozy vibes with a hint of “uh-oh, what’s going to happen next?”

The plot? Oh, the drama! A group of wealthy individuals gathers for a summer filled with partying, gossip, and yes, plenty of cheating. The murder mystery, however, takes its sweet time to unfold. Honestly, the pacing is so slow that if it weren’t for my book club, I would have tossed it aside and gone to the beach myself.

Let’s talk about the cast of characters because there are plenty, and they are something else:

-Lauren Parker: The rich mom fleeing scandal, thinking of making Fire Island her permanent hideout.

– Robert Heyworth: The hot tennis coach who is all about that tennis life.

-Rachel Woolf: The lonely, jealous woman tangled in a web of failed relationships.

– Micah Holt: The bartender who overhears all the juicy gossip.

– Jason Parker: Lauren’s cheating husband (what a gem).

-Silvia Mabini: The Parker’s nanny with her own point of view (why? We don’t know).

– Beth Ledbetter: The unpopular character who doesn’t like the other main women.

– Sam Weinstein: Accused of sexual harassment at work but claims innocence.

– Paul Grobel: The music guy married to Emily, possibly swinging with the older crowd.

– Jen Weinstein: Cheating on Sam with Jason (yes, it’s that kind of book).

Their relationships? Oh boy. Let’s just say everyone is cheating on everyone, and they all seem to hate each other yet hang out every summer. It’s like a reality show, but not in a good way.

Emma Rosenblum’s writing is, shall we say, a bit too descriptive. Less talk, more action, please! The dialogue is sparse and often bratty. And the multiple narrative voices? It’s like trying to follow a conversation in a crowded room. Consistency, where art thou?

“Bad Summer People” had the potential to be a sizzling summer read but ended up being more of a damp squib.

Should You Read This?

I wouldn’t recommend it unless you’re really into shows like “Gossip Girl” and “The Real Housewives.” If you like scandal and drama with a side of who-cares-who-dies, this might be for you.

What did you think of "Bad Summer People"

Have you read "Bad Summer People"? What did you think of the characters and the plot? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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