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Big Summer
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Fiction (2020)Six years after the fight that ended their friendship, Daphne Berg is shocked when Drue Cavanaugh walks back into her life, looking as lovely and successful as ever, with a massive favor to ask. Daphne hasn’t spoken one word to Drue in all this time—she doesn’t even hate-follow her ex-best friend on social media—so when Drue asks if she will be her maid-of-honor at the society wedding of the summer, Daphne is rightfully speechless.
Drue was always the one who had everything—except the ability to hold onto friends. Meanwhile, Daphne’s no longer the same self-effacing sidekick she was back in high school. She’s built a life that she loves, including a growing career as a plus-size Instagram influencer. Letting glamorous, seductive Drue back into her life is risky, but it comes with an invitation to spend a weekend in a waterfront Cape Cod mansion. When Drue begs and pleads and dangles the prospect of cute single guys, Daphne finds herself powerless as ever to resist her friend’s siren song.
A sparkling novel about the complexities of female friendship, the pitfalls of living out loud and online, and the resilience of the human heart, Big Summer is a witty, moving story about family, friendship, and figuring out what matters most.
Drue was always the one who had everything—except the ability to hold onto friends. Meanwhile, Daphne’s no longer the same self-effacing sidekick she was back in high school. She’s built a life that she loves, including a growing career as a plus-size Instagram influencer. Letting glamorous, seductive Drue back into her life is risky, but it comes with an invitation to spend a weekend in a waterfront Cape Cod mansion. When Drue begs and pleads and dangles the prospect of cute single guys, Daphne finds herself powerless as ever to resist her friend’s siren song.
A sparkling novel about the complexities of female friendship, the pitfalls of living out loud and online, and the resilience of the human heart, Big Summer is a witty, moving story about family, friendship, and figuring out what matters most.
364 pages, ebook
First published May 5, 2020
About the author
Jennifer Weiner
63 books23.7k followersJennifer Weiner is the #1 New York Times bestselling author of eighteen books, including Good in Bed, In Her Shoes, and, most recently, That Summer. A graduate of Princeton University, she lives with her family in Philadelphia. Visit her online at JenniferWeiner.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 12,726 reviews
March 4, 2021
The first half had the potential to be a decent chick lit story - it had a lot of focus on social media influencers, frenemies drama, and body image discussions with a plus-sized protagonist. I would have given it 3 stars if it were just that, but the latter is where the story suffers as we abruptly shift over to a mystery. I actually am intrigued by the idea of switching genres halfway through a book, but the execution wasn’t great because it was clear that the author is better at writing chick lit than a mystery or thriller. Another reviewer compared it to Scooby Doo, which I find accurate - we watch the protagonist become an amateur sleuth and go on a journey with two sidekicks, a cheesy detective, and a cartoonish villain who gladly gives exposition about how and why they did it.
I didn’t care for any of the characters. The protagonist constantly comments on her weight, self-deprecates, and compares herself to others. This behavior, while realistic and understandable for a lot of people, gets repetitive and tiring to read, especially when it seems like you can’t read any fat character without them CONSTANTLY feeling bad about themselves. At least in “One to Watch” it was more purposeful and realistic considering that protagonist’s circumstances, but in this one, I really wish there was more to her character other than struggling with her self-esteem, body image, and dealing with her bitchy skinny frenemy. It seems like such low-hanging fruit of a narrative. She didn’t even really get a decent romance, since we were thrown right into insta-love.
As for the frenemy, the entire plot hinges upon her somehow having a magnetic effect on the protagonist and everyone else. She didn’t have that effect on me at all, since it’s obvious she’s a stereotypical vapid influencer. Even when the book tries to make her sympathetic or give her depth, I still could not bother to care. The frenemies relationship just felt like white girl drama to me.
Speaking of which, I have mixed feelings about a very dramatic scene in the story where she has a conversation with an Asian character, who laments about being the only Asian person in a predominantly white place, how their family worked so hard to get them to America, and how important it was to be an American, but now their parents were ashamed of them because of that character’s academic failures. Aside from the stereotypical Asian-American background story, the protagonist replies that she knows what it’s like to be different as well, because she is a fat girl. The Asian character argues that is not the same, but the protagonist insists that she has suffered too and that everyone suffers in their own way. The main character replies: “We’re all people.” Um…. ok?
A question I constantly asked while reading this was: what is the point? Any message that could have been given from the first half of the book becomes diluted by the sudden turn of events and Scooby Doo hijinks in the second half. The best answer I can think of was that it shows how everyone has their own insecurities and issues, and you never know what someone is going through behind their social media. “We’re all people”. To which I say… um… ok.
I didn’t care for any of the characters. The protagonist constantly comments on her weight, self-deprecates, and compares herself to others. This behavior, while realistic and understandable for a lot of people, gets repetitive and tiring to read, especially when it seems like you can’t read any fat character without them CONSTANTLY feeling bad about themselves. At least in “One to Watch” it was more purposeful and realistic considering that protagonist’s circumstances, but in this one, I really wish there was more to her character other than struggling with her self-esteem, body image, and dealing with her bitchy skinny frenemy. It seems like such low-hanging fruit of a narrative. She didn’t even really get a decent romance, since we were thrown right into insta-love.
As for the frenemy, the entire plot hinges upon her somehow having a magnetic effect on the protagonist and everyone else. She didn’t have that effect on me at all, since it’s obvious she’s a stereotypical vapid influencer. Even when the book tries to make her sympathetic or give her depth, I still could not bother to care. The frenemies relationship just felt like white girl drama to me.
Speaking of which, I have mixed feelings about a very dramatic scene in the story where she has a conversation with an Asian character, who laments about being the only Asian person in a predominantly white place, how their family worked so hard to get them to America, and how important it was to be an American, but now their parents were ashamed of them because of that character’s academic failures. Aside from the stereotypical Asian-American background story, the protagonist replies that she knows what it’s like to be different as well, because she is a fat girl. The Asian character argues that is not the same, but the protagonist insists that she has suffered too and that everyone suffers in their own way. The main character replies: “We’re all people.” Um…. ok?
A question I constantly asked while reading this was: what is the point? Any message that could have been given from the first half of the book becomes diluted by the sudden turn of events and Scooby Doo hijinks in the second half. The best answer I can think of was that it shows how everyone has their own insecurities and issues, and you never know what someone is going through behind their social media. “We’re all people”. To which I say… um… ok.
July 13, 2022
Wow! Fat-shaming, dangers of social media, frenemies, entertaining, riveting, interesting plot with well-developed, impeccable characterization and it’s Jennifer brilliant Weiner book! There’s nothing say more! I’m all in!
Two things I adored about the book:
1) Our MC Daphne, her struggles, family relations, her inner securities and her fight against self-loathing, learning to self-respect, turning it into a shining, growing, successful business opportunity. Yes, she is social media influencer, she’s smart, she is beautiful, she is powerful, she is strong.
2) Intriguing progression of the story, unexpected twist makes you feel like the rug pulled out from under you and genre’s whirlwind change. Yes, ladies and gentleman, first part of the book is women’s fiction and chic lit and it is totally branded Jennifer Weiner’s writing style but when you reach to the second half, the story turns into a MURDER MYSTERY! I didn’t see it coming and my spidey senses left the building so I left in the dark. And guess what? This mysterious half is also captivating and entertaining. A brilliant author can manage to bring out different tastes to serve her readers and you gotta get ready to devour these delicious parts at one bite. It’s truly worth it!
Let’s take a look at the plot: Our main character Daphne is being humiliated, teased because of her appearance throughout her life.
Especially the epic fight with her best wealthy, blonde, skinny, shiny best friend Drue screams her cruel, harsh words which marks a milestone of her youth. ( Because she didn’t belong to the plastic surgery icons’ fake, perfect, selected world. And her family is not rich enough to send her college so she got her scholarship and did her best to adapt with her inner circle didn’t treat her so well.)Daphne gathers her wits and turns her insecurities, years of humiliation into a career opportunity and she becomes a social media influencer! But her mean girls’ Broadway musical cast choice Drue connects with her after six years of silence. And she wants her to her maid of honor( seems like being Cruella didn’t give much power to her throughout the years!
Now she’s seeing a therapist and trying to make things right!) and she even offers her money so biased and bribed Daphne finally accepts the offer. And then? I’m stopping right there because that’s the part the story is going to the different direction. You gotta read ASAP to learn more juicy details.
The only thing that really irritated me about the book, the over emphasizing Daphne’s wright at each chapters, comments of the people she related or connected, her inner thoughts! At some parts I want to stop reading and screaming: “Oh come on! Why is she only defined by her weight as if she should be shunned! Being overweight is not a disease! It can increase the risk of so many health problems but being unhappy kills you faster than the fat surround your bodies! It’s a fact! Eat carbs, chocolate and drink wine! Just be happy and stop judging yourself! Even supermodels have anxiety crisis and feel themselves ugly! Everything ends in your mind!”
Weiner’s approach to the social media and the way she manifests threatening harsh comments’ dangerous effect on the people’s psychology are brilliant but I think she didn’t treat fair to her MC.
I loved her subject choices but I didn’t like some of her point of views and expressions. So I’m cutting one and half points and giving 3.5 starts (of course I’m rounding them up 4 because it’s still amazing reading)
An entertaining, riveting, though-provoking, hilarious, questioning, well-written novel is highly recommended to be at your beach bag!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books , dear Ariele Fredman for sharing this enjoyable page-turner ARC with me in exchange my honest review. I always have memorable time when I read one of my favorite authors’ novels.
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Two things I adored about the book:
1) Our MC Daphne, her struggles, family relations, her inner securities and her fight against self-loathing, learning to self-respect, turning it into a shining, growing, successful business opportunity. Yes, she is social media influencer, she’s smart, she is beautiful, she is powerful, she is strong.
2) Intriguing progression of the story, unexpected twist makes you feel like the rug pulled out from under you and genre’s whirlwind change. Yes, ladies and gentleman, first part of the book is women’s fiction and chic lit and it is totally branded Jennifer Weiner’s writing style but when you reach to the second half, the story turns into a MURDER MYSTERY! I didn’t see it coming and my spidey senses left the building so I left in the dark. And guess what? This mysterious half is also captivating and entertaining. A brilliant author can manage to bring out different tastes to serve her readers and you gotta get ready to devour these delicious parts at one bite. It’s truly worth it!
Let’s take a look at the plot: Our main character Daphne is being humiliated, teased because of her appearance throughout her life.
Especially the epic fight with her best wealthy, blonde, skinny, shiny best friend Drue screams her cruel, harsh words which marks a milestone of her youth. ( Because she didn’t belong to the plastic surgery icons’ fake, perfect, selected world. And her family is not rich enough to send her college so she got her scholarship and did her best to adapt with her inner circle didn’t treat her so well.)Daphne gathers her wits and turns her insecurities, years of humiliation into a career opportunity and she becomes a social media influencer! But her mean girls’ Broadway musical cast choice Drue connects with her after six years of silence. And she wants her to her maid of honor( seems like being Cruella didn’t give much power to her throughout the years!
Now she’s seeing a therapist and trying to make things right!) and she even offers her money so biased and bribed Daphne finally accepts the offer. And then? I’m stopping right there because that’s the part the story is going to the different direction. You gotta read ASAP to learn more juicy details.
The only thing that really irritated me about the book, the over emphasizing Daphne’s wright at each chapters, comments of the people she related or connected, her inner thoughts! At some parts I want to stop reading and screaming: “Oh come on! Why is she only defined by her weight as if she should be shunned! Being overweight is not a disease! It can increase the risk of so many health problems but being unhappy kills you faster than the fat surround your bodies! It’s a fact! Eat carbs, chocolate and drink wine! Just be happy and stop judging yourself! Even supermodels have anxiety crisis and feel themselves ugly! Everything ends in your mind!”
Weiner’s approach to the social media and the way she manifests threatening harsh comments’ dangerous effect on the people’s psychology are brilliant but I think she didn’t treat fair to her MC.
I loved her subject choices but I didn’t like some of her point of views and expressions. So I’m cutting one and half points and giving 3.5 starts (of course I’m rounding them up 4 because it’s still amazing reading)
An entertaining, riveting, though-provoking, hilarious, questioning, well-written novel is highly recommended to be at your beach bag!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books , dear Ariele Fredman for sharing this enjoyable page-turner ARC with me in exchange my honest review. I always have memorable time when I read one of my favorite authors’ novels.
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April 30, 2020
JAW. DROP.
This book will be so difficult to review, and I will tread carefully because of spoilers, but I highly recommend you don't read any reviews, including my own until you pick this up for yourself. The less said the better, but this one starts as one thing, and morphs into something else completely along the way. Weiner includes strong narrative around themes of body image, female relationships, and the expectations that our world puts on females in general. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and if you're on a limited budget this summer, please include this in your purchasing list, as it is worth every penny spent.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
This book will be so difficult to review, and I will tread carefully because of spoilers, but I highly recommend you don't read any reviews, including my own until you pick this up for yourself. The less said the better, but this one starts as one thing, and morphs into something else completely along the way. Weiner includes strong narrative around themes of body image, female relationships, and the expectations that our world puts on females in general. I cannot recommend this book highly enough, and if you're on a limited budget this summer, please include this in your purchasing list, as it is worth every penny spent.
*Many thanks to the publisher for providing my review copy.
March 9, 2021
Daphne Berg and Drue Cavanaugh were once best friends. Kind of. The friendship was a little one-sided and had a slight frenemies vibe but still...
Until that one day where Drue pushed Daphne just way too far.
Six years later, Daphne has completely (and utterly) moved on. She has a comfortable influencer life, she just made a major plus-size brand deal AND she's hit her body confidence groove.
THEN DRUE WALTZES BACK IN.
Apparently Drue is getting married and has not made a lot (read: any) friends since high school.
Desperate to have someone standing up on her side of the wedding, Drue begs Daphne to be a bridesmaid.
Daphne is a little hesitant, but she's no longer the doubting little teenager...but somehow being with Drue brings back all the high school memories. But surely Daphne can resist her friend's spell, right?
Whew. Okay. So. This was quite possibly one of the wildest books I've read in a long time.
Like, I picked up this book cause I was like, hmm...I could use a cute summer romance with estranged friends but I was soooo wrong.
To be honest, I don't even want to talk about the book anymore cause the surprise was so fun for me...and I don't want to accidently give anything away.
Ending thoughts: This was a great book! And a perfect one to go in blind!
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June 9, 2020
“Even if things don’t get better, you can always make them look good on the internet.”
Big Summer is part chick-lit, part drama, and part mystery. It explores the dynamics of female friendship, body image, and the pretense of social media personas.
Daphne’s character drew me in immediately. As a woman, I found her vulnerabilities and experiences easy to identify with. A self-described “babysitter and not-very-influential influencer,” Daphne spends a lot of time focusing on her body image and insecurities, but at the same time, she fights to empower herself and view her body in a different light. She exposes herself on social media; however, her social media persona allows her to hide her true self, which poses an additional layer for her to explore in her journey. Part of her journey involves self-acceptance, another part focuses on her acceptance of a former friendship that soured in the worst of ways.
This book kept me company during Tropical Storm Cristobal, and it had all the elements needed to distract me from the gloomy weather: drama, mystery, humor, and a little bit of romance. It's a lot lighter and fluffier than Weiner's most recent book, but this fluff has depth!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Big Summer is part chick-lit, part drama, and part mystery. It explores the dynamics of female friendship, body image, and the pretense of social media personas.
Daphne’s character drew me in immediately. As a woman, I found her vulnerabilities and experiences easy to identify with. A self-described “babysitter and not-very-influential influencer,” Daphne spends a lot of time focusing on her body image and insecurities, but at the same time, she fights to empower herself and view her body in a different light. She exposes herself on social media; however, her social media persona allows her to hide her true self, which poses an additional layer for her to explore in her journey. Part of her journey involves self-acceptance, another part focuses on her acceptance of a former friendship that soured in the worst of ways.
This book kept me company during Tropical Storm Cristobal, and it had all the elements needed to distract me from the gloomy weather: drama, mystery, humor, and a little bit of romance. It's a lot lighter and fluffier than Weiner's most recent book, but this fluff has depth!
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 19, 2020
My reviews can also be seen at: https://deesradreadsandreviews.wordpr...
4.5 Stars!!!!
An entertaining, thought-provoking, extremely satisfying read.
Six years ago, nineteen-year-old, Daphne Berg was out with friends for a night of fun and dancing. The night ended with Daphne making a vow to never see her "friend", Drue Lathrop Cavanaugh ever again.
Six years later, Daphne is an up and coming influencer. She is excited to be starting a collaboration with another influencer. This opportunity means she will gain more followers. At the same time, she knows that more followers mean more attention and scrutiny which is hard on any woman but extra hard for overweight women.
Daphne is surprised when Drue Cavanaugh gets back in touch. She’s shocked when Drue asks her to be her maid-of-honor. Daphne had read about Drue’s upcoming wedding in the papers and online, but she never expected this. Daphne knows she shouldn’t do it. She's still so angry but she does remember having some very good times with Drue. But the hurt goes deep.
Drue seems to have it all. She’s beautiful, she’s rich, and she has a wonderful fiancé.
But Drue’s life may not be as great as Daphne thinks it is.
Will Daphne give Drue another chance? If she does, will she regret it?
One crazy summer filled with secrets, lies, and surprises!
I really enjoyed this novel. The story is told from Daphne’s perspective and alternates between the past and present. I was gripped.
Jennifer Weiner is such a talented storyteller. I thought “Big Summer” would be an entertaining summer read and it was, but it also went further than I expected. It touches on many issues and I thought the author handled them brilliantly. This was a well-paced read with terrific characterization and I was surprised by the well-timed unexpected twists.
An engrossing story of friendship, betrayal, forgiveness, and more
I'd like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
4.5 Stars!!!!
An entertaining, thought-provoking, extremely satisfying read.
Six years ago, nineteen-year-old, Daphne Berg was out with friends for a night of fun and dancing. The night ended with Daphne making a vow to never see her "friend", Drue Lathrop Cavanaugh ever again.
Six years later, Daphne is an up and coming influencer. She is excited to be starting a collaboration with another influencer. This opportunity means she will gain more followers. At the same time, she knows that more followers mean more attention and scrutiny which is hard on any woman but extra hard for overweight women.
Daphne is surprised when Drue Cavanaugh gets back in touch. She’s shocked when Drue asks her to be her maid-of-honor. Daphne had read about Drue’s upcoming wedding in the papers and online, but she never expected this. Daphne knows she shouldn’t do it. She's still so angry but she does remember having some very good times with Drue. But the hurt goes deep.
Drue seems to have it all. She’s beautiful, she’s rich, and she has a wonderful fiancé.
But Drue’s life may not be as great as Daphne thinks it is.
Will Daphne give Drue another chance? If she does, will she regret it?
One crazy summer filled with secrets, lies, and surprises!
I really enjoyed this novel. The story is told from Daphne’s perspective and alternates between the past and present. I was gripped.
Jennifer Weiner is such a talented storyteller. I thought “Big Summer” would be an entertaining summer read and it was, but it also went further than I expected. It touches on many issues and I thought the author handled them brilliantly. This was a well-paced read with terrific characterization and I was surprised by the well-timed unexpected twists.
An engrossing story of friendship, betrayal, forgiveness, and more
I'd like to thank the publisher for providing me with a copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
June 24, 2020
"Nobody heard him, the dead man,
But still he lay moaning:
I was much further out than you thought
And not waving but drowning.
Poor chap, he always loved larking
And now he’s dead
It must have been too cold for him his heart gave way,
They said.
Oh, no no no, it was too cold always
(Still the dead one lay moaning)
I was much too far out all my life
And not waving but drowning.
-Stevie Smith
2.5 stars. I am truly disappointed. Not in this book (well, I am but I'll get to that) but in the fact that I didn't enjoy it considering it was one of my most anticipated reads of 2020 because I absolutely loved Mrs. Everything. There were quite a few things that I did like about this book but they weren't enough to outweigh the things I didn't.
So, what's this book about?
Six years after the fight that ended their friendship, Daphne Berg is shocked when Drue Cavanaugh walks back into her life, looking as lovely and successful as ever, with a massive favor to ask. Daphne hasn’t spoken one word to Drue in all this time—she doesn’t even hate-follow her ex-best friend on social media—so when Drue asks if she will be her maid-of-honor at the society wedding of the summer, Daphne is rightfully speechless.
Drue was always the one who had everything—except the ability to hold onto friends. Meanwhile, Daphne’s no longer the same self-effacing sidekick she was back in high school. She’s built a life that she loves, including a growing career as a plus-size Instagram influencer. Letting glamorous, seductive Drue back into her life is risky, but it comes with an invitation to spend a weekend in a waterfront Cape Cod mansion. When Drue begs and pleads and dangles the prospect of cute single guys, Daphne finds herself powerless as ever to resist her friend’s siren song.
A sparkling novel about the complexities of female friendship, the pitfalls of living out loud and online, and the resilience of the human heart, Big Summer is a witty, moving story about family, friendship, and figuring out what matters most.
I'd like to start by focusing on the positives because, as I said, there were a few. The first positive thing was Daphne. I appreciated her raw honesty about body image. I am actually quite thin but I deal with body image and it was really nice to see that theme explored in the book.
I also loved the overall exploration of friendships and how toxic they can get along with the good and bad of social media.
Body image is a major source for a lot of people (me included although it's gotten a lot better in recent months) and it's not shown in books nearly as much as it should so I was super excited to see it covered. And it was well covered... BUT I wasn't able to fully appreciate it because this book that was trying to portray the theme of body positivity... had a male character who (like almost all romance novels) was physically perfect. Fit, thin, flawless skin... I could write a whole essay about how problematic this is but to put it simply, I was frustrated by the irony.
Anywho, on to my next point. There was too much going on. This book was attempting to be a mystery, a romance, and a contemporary novel with social commentary all at once. All of these things, on their own, are great, and, if well done, they go great together. In this book, things felt kind of clumpy. Like water and oil, it just wasn't mixing well. Mostly the mystery... It was totally unnecessary in my opinion. I feel like there could have been other and better ways to get the same end result.
Speaking of the mystery... It happened way too late. The inciting incident happened at the 50% mark which is kind of ridiculous. There wasn't nearly enough time to build any tension or suspense up. I also wasn't a fan of the reveal because it didn't make any sense.
Finally, I didn't like the romance. It was quite insta-lovey which occasionally works but this time it didn't. It didn't fit with the story and it was kind of cringy.
Overall, I was very disappointed in this book. Check out this author's other books rather than this one. They're a lot better.
Bottom Line:
2 stars
Age Rating - [ R ]
Content Screening (Mild Spoilers)
Positive Messages (4/5) - [Self-care, self-love]
Violence (3/5) - [Bodies, Death, Injury, Fights, Guns]
Sex (3/5) - [Semi-detailed sex scene, Sexual themes, Kissing]
Drinking/Drugs (3/5) - [Poison, Medicinal drugs, Alcohol consumption]
Content and Trigger Warnings - Body shaming, Death, Loss of a loved one, Mental illness
Publication Date: May 5th, 2020
Publisher: Atria Books (an imprint of Simon & Schuster)
Genre: Mystery/Romance
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2.5 stars
I am just surprised as you are
Review to come
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OOHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
MYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY
GOOOOOOOOODDDDDDDDDD
GIVE IT TO ME NOWWWWWW
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June 24, 2020
3.5 stars I think. This book was a ROLLER-COASTER. I don't want to say too much for fear of spoiling even the tiniest bit, but I went into this book knowing absolutely nothing and about halfway through something COMPLETELY shocking happens that left me having to drag my jaw up off of the floor because I didn't see it coming AT ALL. As much as I did LOVE that element and it did make this book super memorable and enjoyable for me, I don't think it would be something that I would call a new favorite. However, I would still definitely recommend it though if you are interested in reading a fun and fast summery contemporary about a fat girl living her best life!
TW: fatphobia, bulimia, restricted eating, adultery
TW: fatphobia, bulimia, restricted eating, adultery
March 6, 2023
This is a Women's Fiction/Chick-Lit/Mystery/Romance. This book really surprised me in a good way. I have to say this book did not pull me in for the beginning, but I got so pulled into the story I could not put this book down if I wanted too by the middle of the book. I am having trouble putting this book into a genre because I feel this book is a little bit of several genres. I love that this book is not the normal book you will read. The main character I did not love at first, but by the end of the story I really loved her so much. The mystery part I really enjoyed, and I did not see the ending happening how it did. Overall, this is a really well-written story with great characters and twists. The audiobook was super good, and I really loved the audiobook. The narrator was super good. I received an ARC of this book. This review is my own honest opinion about the book like all my reviews are.
May 21, 2020
4.5 stars.
Big Summer , Jennifer Weiner's newest novel, is a thought-provoking, poignant exploration of friendship, self-esteem, body image, social media, and whether people truly are capable of change.
If she’s not completely happy, Daphne is at least content with her life. She’s starting to gain momentum as a social media influencer for the plus-size community, she likes her job and her apartment, and she’s even starting to feel a bit better about how she looks.
When her childhood best friend Drue shows up after they haven’t spoken in six years, Daphne is thrown for a loop. Drue is set to marry a reality show star on Cape Cod, and she wants Daphne to be in her wedding. Drue says she’s changed since the night of their big fight, and although that night changed Daphne in many ways, she’s willing to give Drue the benefit of the doubt, despite the numerous times Drue made her feel bad about herself.
I’ll stop with any synopsis here because this is a book that surprises, and the less you know about it going in, the better. Weiner creates believable, complex characters, and she pulls you into this story completely.
I struggled a little at the beginning because the narration of the book kept shifting from Daphne’s childhood memories to present-day, but after a little bit of time that leveled off and I was totally hooked. There are a lot of powerful themes Weiner touches on in the book but she’s never heavy-handed in her messaging.
Atria Books and Ariele Stewart provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thank you for making it available!!
This book publishes May 5.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
Big Summer , Jennifer Weiner's newest novel, is a thought-provoking, poignant exploration of friendship, self-esteem, body image, social media, and whether people truly are capable of change.
If she’s not completely happy, Daphne is at least content with her life. She’s starting to gain momentum as a social media influencer for the plus-size community, she likes her job and her apartment, and she’s even starting to feel a bit better about how she looks.
When her childhood best friend Drue shows up after they haven’t spoken in six years, Daphne is thrown for a loop. Drue is set to marry a reality show star on Cape Cod, and she wants Daphne to be in her wedding. Drue says she’s changed since the night of their big fight, and although that night changed Daphne in many ways, she’s willing to give Drue the benefit of the doubt, despite the numerous times Drue made her feel bad about herself.
I’ll stop with any synopsis here because this is a book that surprises, and the less you know about it going in, the better. Weiner creates believable, complex characters, and she pulls you into this story completely.
I struggled a little at the beginning because the narration of the book kept shifting from Daphne’s childhood memories to present-day, but after a little bit of time that leveled off and I was totally hooked. There are a lot of powerful themes Weiner touches on in the book but she’s never heavy-handed in her messaging.
Atria Books and Ariele Stewart provided me an advance copy of the book in exchange for an unbiased review. Thank you for making it available!!
This book publishes May 5.
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2019 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2019.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
July 12, 2021
Big Summer by Jennifer Weiner is a 2020 Atria Books publication.
A Big Summer Hit!!
A nasty fight between Daphne and her best friend, Drue, leads to a six- year estrangement. Daphne is now a plus-size Instagram influencer and has come a long way since her days of hero worshipping her rich and glamourous friend.
But, when Drue comes barreling back into her life, begging her to be the maid of honor at her wedding, Daphne, against her better judgement, decides to give Drue one more chance.
Besides, she’s been invited to Cape Cod for a wedding party, which could give her online presence a major boost, and there is sure to be a few eligible men in attendance, too.
Little did she know that the weekend events would change her entire perspective on many things, including family and friendship.
This is my first book by this author- though I have had a few of her books on Kindle for a while now. This one got some buzz last summer-but the wait list at the library was so long, I put it on a back burner for a while. Now, a year later, I’m finally getting around to reading it.
This book took me a little by surprise. I do remember reading some reviews for the book- after all, that is what convinced me to add the book in the first place, but I didn’t refresh my memory before I started reading. It was like going in blind- and it worked out perfectly.
Things were going along pretty much as I expected, and I was enjoying the book well enough. I appreciated the way the plot exposed the mindset of reality shows/ social media/ influencers/ and how Daphne was seeing Drue through a more mature lens.
Then the story took a dark turn I didn’t see coming- and suddenly I was no longer reading a chick-lit novel or contemporary fiction- I was reading a mystery/thriller too! Awesome!! What a great combination- Almost-like romantic suspense got a refreshing reboot!
I loved how Daphne’s character grew, the way she learned to appreciate how rich she really was, how grateful she was for all the blessings she had overlooked. She saw how sometimes other's lives aren't as charmed as they appear. She owned her own flaws, acknowledging the things she took for granted, and came away with a new outlook on life.
While I would say I’m probably a little older than the targeted audience for this one- I really liked the book and will definitely read more books by this author!
4 stars
*Note: Content advisory- I have some online book pals who, like me, prefer the sensual scenes remain behind a closed door- So beware- this novel has some explicit sex scenes- one that seemed to go on forever- especially since I was listening to the audio version at the time and couldn’t just skip past it as I would if reading on my Kindle. I personally don’t feel the added details were necessary to the plot, but I suppose that’s a matter of taste. Just giving you a heads up.
A Big Summer Hit!!
A nasty fight between Daphne and her best friend, Drue, leads to a six- year estrangement. Daphne is now a plus-size Instagram influencer and has come a long way since her days of hero worshipping her rich and glamourous friend.
But, when Drue comes barreling back into her life, begging her to be the maid of honor at her wedding, Daphne, against her better judgement, decides to give Drue one more chance.
Besides, she’s been invited to Cape Cod for a wedding party, which could give her online presence a major boost, and there is sure to be a few eligible men in attendance, too.
Little did she know that the weekend events would change her entire perspective on many things, including family and friendship.
This is my first book by this author- though I have had a few of her books on Kindle for a while now. This one got some buzz last summer-but the wait list at the library was so long, I put it on a back burner for a while. Now, a year later, I’m finally getting around to reading it.
This book took me a little by surprise. I do remember reading some reviews for the book- after all, that is what convinced me to add the book in the first place, but I didn’t refresh my memory before I started reading. It was like going in blind- and it worked out perfectly.
Things were going along pretty much as I expected, and I was enjoying the book well enough. I appreciated the way the plot exposed the mindset of reality shows/ social media/ influencers/ and how Daphne was seeing Drue through a more mature lens.
Then the story took a dark turn I didn’t see coming- and suddenly I was no longer reading a chick-lit novel or contemporary fiction- I was reading a mystery/thriller too! Awesome!! What a great combination- Almost-like romantic suspense got a refreshing reboot!
I loved how Daphne’s character grew, the way she learned to appreciate how rich she really was, how grateful she was for all the blessings she had overlooked. She saw how sometimes other's lives aren't as charmed as they appear. She owned her own flaws, acknowledging the things she took for granted, and came away with a new outlook on life.
While I would say I’m probably a little older than the targeted audience for this one- I really liked the book and will definitely read more books by this author!
4 stars
*Note: Content advisory- I have some online book pals who, like me, prefer the sensual scenes remain behind a closed door- So beware- this novel has some explicit sex scenes- one that seemed to go on forever- especially since I was listening to the audio version at the time and couldn’t just skip past it as I would if reading on my Kindle. I personally don’t feel the added details were necessary to the plot, but I suppose that’s a matter of taste. Just giving you a heads up.
June 5, 2020
I honestly should have known this book wasn't for me, but I had heard good things and I was just looking for something light and happy and thought this might do the trick. I did not really enjoy this book at all; I found the whole book to be very shallow, predictable and full of cliches. Everything just seemed dramatic and kind of silly to me.
I didn't really enjoy the main character at all. She was supposed to be all about positive body image because she was judged all her life about being overweight but she judged everyone she met based on their appearance, and it was usually always negatively. Every person she met, she described what they looked like in her head and it was always mean and judgemental like protruding ears, or a big nose that looked fine on her brother but not good on her, or that she was beautiful but she had her nose and breasts done. She even judged every room she walked into or outfit she saw someone wear. She also seemed to really enjoy pointing out people's wrinkles and tired baggy eyes.
The cheesy insta love was also not for me. She totally fell for a guy she just met who she is aware used her and basically lied to her about everything. But he is really hot, so that's okay right?!? He had perfect abs and a tan. Also, it was weird how obsessive he was suddenly about leaving her side and needing to always protect her when they didn't even know each other, they just had a one night stand.
The one good part about the book was the message that you never know what someone is really dealing with in their life from the outside looking in. Everything may look perfect, but that just may be the only part they let you see. This is so relevant in today's society. We see people post messages or pictures multiple times a day and follow their lives so we feel like we know them. We really only know the things they let us see, and even those things are usually heavily edited.
I didn't really enjoy the main character at all. She was supposed to be all about positive body image because she was judged all her life about being overweight but she judged everyone she met based on their appearance, and it was usually always negatively. Every person she met, she described what they looked like in her head and it was always mean and judgemental like protruding ears, or a big nose that looked fine on her brother but not good on her, or that she was beautiful but she had her nose and breasts done. She even judged every room she walked into or outfit she saw someone wear. She also seemed to really enjoy pointing out people's wrinkles and tired baggy eyes.
The cheesy insta love was also not for me. She totally fell for a guy she just met who she is aware used her and basically lied to her about everything. But he is really hot, so that's okay right?!? He had perfect abs and a tan. Also, it was weird how obsessive he was suddenly about leaving her side and needing to always protect her when they didn't even know each other, they just had a one night stand.
The one good part about the book was the message that you never know what someone is really dealing with in their life from the outside looking in. Everything may look perfect, but that just may be the only part they let you see. This is so relevant in today's society. We see people post messages or pictures multiple times a day and follow their lives so we feel like we know them. We really only know the things they let us see, and even those things are usually heavily edited.
April 7, 2020
3.5 stars
"I would still want to be her friend, because she was everything I wanted to be."
Six years after the fight (and video) that ended their friendship, Drue Cavanaugh comes back into Daphne Berg's life. Drue is as Blonde, skinny and beautiful as ever and she needs something from Daphne. She comes begging forgiveness and for Daphne to be her Maid-of-honor at her wedding. Daphne is shocked, that night besides being incredibly painful was the turning point in her life. She turned her pain and embarrassment into a career and is now a social media influencer. So why her? Why not ask someone else to be in her wedding?
This book started slowly for me. Let me clarify, I enjoyed the beginning with the single woman raising her son on the Cape, but then there is a dramatic shift and the book tells the story of Daphne, Drue and to a small degree, Daphne's roommate and lifelong friend, Dashni as well. After the change is the storyline, it took until the 49 percent mark for me to become fully invested in the book. That is when things became interesting to me. That is when the book which was many things - a book about female friendships, body shamming, self-esteem, the positive and negative aspects of sharing parts of your life on social media, family, accepting yourself, etc., became a whodunit as well. The last part of the book moved very fast for me as I was eager to find out all the questions brought up in this book. The last part of this book saved it for me.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
"I would still want to be her friend, because she was everything I wanted to be."
Six years after the fight (and video) that ended their friendship, Drue Cavanaugh comes back into Daphne Berg's life. Drue is as Blonde, skinny and beautiful as ever and she needs something from Daphne. She comes begging forgiveness and for Daphne to be her Maid-of-honor at her wedding. Daphne is shocked, that night besides being incredibly painful was the turning point in her life. She turned her pain and embarrassment into a career and is now a social media influencer. So why her? Why not ask someone else to be in her wedding?
This book started slowly for me. Let me clarify, I enjoyed the beginning with the single woman raising her son on the Cape, but then there is a dramatic shift and the book tells the story of Daphne, Drue and to a small degree, Daphne's roommate and lifelong friend, Dashni as well. After the change is the storyline, it took until the 49 percent mark for me to become fully invested in the book. That is when things became interesting to me. That is when the book which was many things - a book about female friendships, body shamming, self-esteem, the positive and negative aspects of sharing parts of your life on social media, family, accepting yourself, etc., became a whodunit as well. The last part of the book moved very fast for me as I was eager to find out all the questions brought up in this book. The last part of this book saved it for me.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 20, 2020
I won this ARC in a GoodReads Giveaway in exchange for a fair review. My thanks to GR, the publisher and the author for this opportunity.
This is not my typical go-to genre nor do I feel like I am the ideal demographic for this book. Even so, I was spellbound from the beginning and finished this in one sitting. When things became twisty in the middle of the book I was completely unprepared for it and found I could not stop reading until I reached the riveting conclusion. Still I felt the first half of the book was (for me anyway) the stronger half by a smidgen. But by then, Daphne Berg had stolen my heart completely and I was all in!
I think this is going to be a perfect summer read!
This is not my typical go-to genre nor do I feel like I am the ideal demographic for this book. Even so, I was spellbound from the beginning and finished this in one sitting. When things became twisty in the middle of the book I was completely unprepared for it and found I could not stop reading until I reached the riveting conclusion. Still I felt the first half of the book was (for me anyway) the stronger half by a smidgen. But by then, Daphne Berg had stolen my heart completely and I was all in!
I think this is going to be a perfect summer read!
September 5, 2021
It has been many years since I've read a Jennifer Weiner novel, but lately I've read several of her insightful, witty op-ed pieces in the NY Times. So I figured this would be a smart, witty beach read. Nope. It is a silly novel about shallow people stuck in adolescence. By the end it devolved into total nonsense.
April 29, 2020
3.5 stars
This book was a complete surprise! I absolutely loved this authors last book Mrs. Everything, so when I got this ARC in the mail I dropped everything so I could read it, and I consumed this entire book in one day. I think it’s best to go into this book knowing absolutely NOTHING, cause you will be so surprised, so read this review at your own risk.
This story follows this woman named Daphne who is an Instagram influencer and she posts a lot of fashion and fitness posts for plus size women. She had this childhood friend named Drue who was more of a bully than a friend and she was always gaslighting her and manipulating her and she’s rich, a real Regina George type. They had a falling out in college when Drue made her feel exceptionally shitty. This book takes place six years later when Drue gets in touch with Daphne again asking her to be a bridesmaid in her wedding because she doesn’t have any other friends. I love reading books about complicated toxic female friendships, I find them absolutely fascinating.
At the end of part one this had the most unexpected plot twist???? I was so shook and so surprised and I love when authors can surprise me like this. I didn’t notice the genre “mystery” listed on this book until after I finished it, so I was very excited about the mysterious plot line happening in this book.
The end of this got a little too cringe-y and lifetime drama for me, but I still think this was a highly entertaining story that I had to finish all in one night because I HAD to know where it was going.
Definitely be sure to check this one out when it comes out in May! Thanks to Atria Books for the ARC 😌
This book was a complete surprise! I absolutely loved this authors last book Mrs. Everything, so when I got this ARC in the mail I dropped everything so I could read it, and I consumed this entire book in one day. I think it’s best to go into this book knowing absolutely NOTHING, cause you will be so surprised, so read this review at your own risk.
This story follows this woman named Daphne who is an Instagram influencer and she posts a lot of fashion and fitness posts for plus size women. She had this childhood friend named Drue who was more of a bully than a friend and she was always gaslighting her and manipulating her and she’s rich, a real Regina George type. They had a falling out in college when Drue made her feel exceptionally shitty. This book takes place six years later when Drue gets in touch with Daphne again asking her to be a bridesmaid in her wedding because she doesn’t have any other friends. I love reading books about complicated toxic female friendships, I find them absolutely fascinating.
At the end of part one this had the most unexpected plot twist???? I was so shook and so surprised and I love when authors can surprise me like this. I didn’t notice the genre “mystery” listed on this book until after I finished it, so I was very excited about the mysterious plot line happening in this book.
The end of this got a little too cringe-y and lifetime drama for me, but I still think this was a highly entertaining story that I had to finish all in one night because I HAD to know where it was going.
Definitely be sure to check this one out when it comes out in May! Thanks to Atria Books for the ARC 😌
May 8, 2021
Six years ago wealthy Drue Cavanaugh and Daphne Berg have a serious fall out over something potentially unforgivable that Drue set up for Daphne and they have not spoken since. In the present day Daphne has carved a good life for herself as a plus size Instagram influencer. Out of the blue Drue gets in touch and begs Daphne to be her maid of honour at her Cape Cod wedding. What should Drue do? As her loyal friend Darshi rightly points out Drue is Daphne’s kryptonite. The developing story deals with several issues and becomes an intriguing mystery too.
Initially I find the book is all over the place with timelines that seem very random and I’m confused and struggling to follow the threads. However, once it gets going it’s a very entertaining and easy to read novel which has a good pace, has some well placed humour and clever twists. The premise and themes are good with, amongst other things, some tangled webs and deception. The friends to enemies to maybe friends keeps you wondering too - who or where is the real Drue? Is she a false friend, a user or for real? The body image focus is thought provoking although it’s over empathised way too much about Daphne’s size. Yes, thank you, got it, message received and understood. I think it’s counter intuitive to keep hammering the point home when the author is trying to get across that it’s about acceptance. There’s fake it til you make it of the Insta influencer, with the pitfalls of social media and horrible, cruel trolls hiding behind the anonymity- though there’s nothing unique here, it’s a fact. There’s some romance in the mix and just a bit of steam 😳.....
The storyline gets darker as it progresses and as more about the Cavanaugh family is revealed - oh boy, there are some cold hard hearted people there. Drue’s portrayal is very good, making you angry and sad in equal measure. Daphne is very likeable and her parents are wonderful. The contrast between them and Drue’s family could not be starker, you can have all the wealth in the world and yet lack so much. The setting in Cape Cod is wonderful, there are some great descriptions which takes me back to a terrific holiday there, including P’town and seeing the dancing policeman!!
Overall, there are lot of positives in this book, it’s entertaining, puzzling, thought provoking and once it gets going it’s a compelling read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little, Brown Book Group, Piatkus for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
Initially I find the book is all over the place with timelines that seem very random and I’m confused and struggling to follow the threads. However, once it gets going it’s a very entertaining and easy to read novel which has a good pace, has some well placed humour and clever twists. The premise and themes are good with, amongst other things, some tangled webs and deception. The friends to enemies to maybe friends keeps you wondering too - who or where is the real Drue? Is she a false friend, a user or for real? The body image focus is thought provoking although it’s over empathised way too much about Daphne’s size. Yes, thank you, got it, message received and understood. I think it’s counter intuitive to keep hammering the point home when the author is trying to get across that it’s about acceptance. There’s fake it til you make it of the Insta influencer, with the pitfalls of social media and horrible, cruel trolls hiding behind the anonymity- though there’s nothing unique here, it’s a fact. There’s some romance in the mix and just a bit of steam 😳.....
The storyline gets darker as it progresses and as more about the Cavanaugh family is revealed - oh boy, there are some cold hard hearted people there. Drue’s portrayal is very good, making you angry and sad in equal measure. Daphne is very likeable and her parents are wonderful. The contrast between them and Drue’s family could not be starker, you can have all the wealth in the world and yet lack so much. The setting in Cape Cod is wonderful, there are some great descriptions which takes me back to a terrific holiday there, including P’town and seeing the dancing policeman!!
Overall, there are lot of positives in this book, it’s entertaining, puzzling, thought provoking and once it gets going it’s a compelling read.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Little, Brown Book Group, Piatkus for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
June 29, 2020
I found Big Summer to be a mixture of drama, mystery and women's fiction all blended together.
Daphne Berg has had a problem with body image and her weight for most of her life. Her insecurities and struggles have been obvious but recently, she has learned to love her body or try to. Six years ago, she had the worst night of her life and there was a video to prove it. Instead of hiding and commiserating about the event, she decides to take charge of her life and in a way to write her own story. By doing so, she becomes an internet sensation and an Instagram influencer.
Everything seems to be looking better for Daphne until Drue Cavanaugh comes back into her life. Drue is blonde, beautiful, smart and rich. She used to be Daphne's friend until Daphne realized what a terrible person she really was. Yet, for the life of her, she can't understand why Drue after not seeing each other for six years, wants Daphne to be her maid of honor or why she decides to accept the offer.
As you can imagine, things are about to become quite interesting in Cape Cod. Interesting and with a twist landing squarely into the mystery category (Didn't see that one coming).
With Big Summer, there are so many good points Jennifer Weiner brings to the board including body image issues and the constant fight within ourselves, the pursuit and desperation to be accepted by a parent, the idea that online our lives are better and brighter, how some people appear to have a perfect life when they don't.
**I want to thank Atria for giving me a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
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May 13, 2020
5 Stars!
This was absolutely the right book at the right time for me! Being at home has made me want to transport myself to a Beach on an island and read. Big Summer gave me that and so much more.
Daphne is a girl who is trying to make it as a social influencer online. She gets clothes, jewelry, etc. in exchange for her posting online. Growing up she went to a school where she didn't exactly fit in but was befriended by one of the rich girls in school. They had a falling out but then Daphne's friend, Drue shows back up in her life to ask her, or even offers to pay her to be her maid of honors for her upcoming wedding.
Is letting Drue back in Daphne's life really worth it? Can she trust this friend who ultimately betrayed her? Her life was starting on the right track until this person came back in her life and things get real messy, real fast.
I read Jennifer Weiner's books every May that they come out and when I read what this book was about I couldn't wait to dig in. With everything going on in the world I definitely needed an escape. This book was that and then some! It's definitely so much more than it looks like or is described as on the surface and it will most definitely throw you for a loop. It had the right mix of female friendship along with some twists and turns. I don't want to say too much more without giving anything anyway, you will just have to read for yourself!
If you are looking for your next summer read, this is it folks! Be sure to pick this one up - you won't regret it!
Thank you to Atria books for my ARC!
This was absolutely the right book at the right time for me! Being at home has made me want to transport myself to a Beach on an island and read. Big Summer gave me that and so much more.
Daphne is a girl who is trying to make it as a social influencer online. She gets clothes, jewelry, etc. in exchange for her posting online. Growing up she went to a school where she didn't exactly fit in but was befriended by one of the rich girls in school. They had a falling out but then Daphne's friend, Drue shows back up in her life to ask her, or even offers to pay her to be her maid of honors for her upcoming wedding.
Is letting Drue back in Daphne's life really worth it? Can she trust this friend who ultimately betrayed her? Her life was starting on the right track until this person came back in her life and things get real messy, real fast.
I read Jennifer Weiner's books every May that they come out and when I read what this book was about I couldn't wait to dig in. With everything going on in the world I definitely needed an escape. This book was that and then some! It's definitely so much more than it looks like or is described as on the surface and it will most definitely throw you for a loop. It had the right mix of female friendship along with some twists and turns. I don't want to say too much more without giving anything anyway, you will just have to read for yourself!
If you are looking for your next summer read, this is it folks! Be sure to pick this one up - you won't regret it!
Thank you to Atria books for my ARC!
May 28, 2020
Jennifer Weiner has masterfully woven together a beach read and a murder mystery and created the perfect summer read. Daphne has always struggled with her body image, and it didn’t help that even her BFF Drew made cutting remarks about her weight. But Daphne is older and wiser now and has extricated Drew from her life after she publicly humiliated her. She is also now a popular plus size Instagram influencer with tons of followers and opportunities. When Drew reaches out and asks Daphne to be her maid of honor Daphne doesn’t know what to do. Hopeful that this is an olive branch Daphne decides to attend the wedding and repair her friendship with Drew. A gorgeous weekend in Cape Cod at the social event of the year and then... BAM everything goes sideways! A lush beach read, a juicy murder mystery, a brilliant book.
Daphne was just a fabulous character! Her struggle with her weight was so authentic. I loved her inner dialogue and even though at times it may have seemed as though she excessively focused on her weight I think unfortunately that is so true of many women. We do get a lot of the backstory between Daphne and Drew, I really loved watching Daphne’s character evolve as a person. She has such a dazzling and dynamic personality and it was nice to see her begin to embrace that. There were a lot of great secondary characters in this book especially Daphne‘s BFF/roommate and her love interest. This was such a fun story that did a really good job touching on a lot of heavy subject matter. Another exceptional summer read from Miss Weiner. The perfect addition to any beach bag!
This book in emojis 🏖 📱 👰🏼 💵 🔍
*** Big thank you to Atria for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Daphne was just a fabulous character! Her struggle with her weight was so authentic. I loved her inner dialogue and even though at times it may have seemed as though she excessively focused on her weight I think unfortunately that is so true of many women. We do get a lot of the backstory between Daphne and Drew, I really loved watching Daphne’s character evolve as a person. She has such a dazzling and dynamic personality and it was nice to see her begin to embrace that. There were a lot of great secondary characters in this book especially Daphne‘s BFF/roommate and her love interest. This was such a fun story that did a really good job touching on a lot of heavy subject matter. Another exceptional summer read from Miss Weiner. The perfect addition to any beach bag!
This book in emojis 🏖 📱 👰🏼 💵 🔍
*** Big thank you to Atria for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
February 29, 2020
I was actually really surprised with Big Summer.
Jennifer Weiner explores some heavy issues in this one around social media, societal views on women, and women's body image.
Our main character Daphne Berg has been made fun of and judged by her body her entire life. Sadly, she was made fun of by her best friend Drue. Drue is quite the typical bombshell beauty but is extremely stuck up and just mean. Drue of course begs Daphne to be her bridesmaid because she is getting married.
There is a significant elements and layers to this novel.... I wasn't expecting at all a mystery within this women's fiction. But, Weiner totally pulls it off.
Weiner weaves a story about the reality of social media with friendships, romance, and mystery all in the perfect summer tale.
The only minor issue I had with this one was the main character Daphne is having insecurities about being overweight and feeling not good enough. It felt a little judge on labeling typical "skinny women" and "overweight women."
Overall, I would grab this one for your beach bag!
Thank you to Netgalley and Atria for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 stars rounded up.
Pub date: 5/19/20
Published to GR: 2/28/20
Jennifer Weiner explores some heavy issues in this one around social media, societal views on women, and women's body image.
Our main character Daphne Berg has been made fun of and judged by her body her entire life. Sadly, she was made fun of by her best friend Drue. Drue is quite the typical bombshell beauty but is extremely stuck up and just mean. Drue of course begs Daphne to be her bridesmaid because she is getting married.
There is a significant elements and layers to this novel.... I wasn't expecting at all a mystery within this women's fiction. But, Weiner totally pulls it off.
Weiner weaves a story about the reality of social media with friendships, romance, and mystery all in the perfect summer tale.
The only minor issue I had with this one was the main character Daphne is having insecurities about being overweight and feeling not good enough. It felt a little judge on labeling typical "skinny women" and "overweight women."
Overall, I would grab this one for your beach bag!
Thank you to Netgalley and Atria for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
3.75 stars rounded up.
Pub date: 5/19/20
Published to GR: 2/28/20
June 10, 2020
Nope. Nope, nope, noooope.
Guys. What did I just read?
Look, I'm not trying to be cruel here, but this was a dumpster fire. I don't even know where to start. The first 40% were about the main character, Daphne, and how low her self-esteem is because she's fat. Or how low it was because she's fat? She's supposed to be empowered and she had her own thriving instagram and she has this best friend that matters but doesn't, whatever. Okay, so the first 40% is backstory and boring but it's a fat girl character and it's nice to read something different so I keep going.
So, then we get into a part that might be romance, I guess? And to be honest, by now I'm really confused because I thought for sure this was a romance, chick lit book and yet nothing has been a slow burn... but there's a guy and he's hitting on her and okay things are happening in the romance realm. We very suddenly get a pretty explicit (but not sexy because there is NO chemistry) sex scene. That's 50%.
Then, let's call it 55% - BOOM - there's a dead girl in a hot tub and all of a sudden our protagonist is a suspect (but is she, really, considering the cops don't care where she is EVER? Like EVER?) and she's running around interviewing people and googling things like she's an expert researching and every once in a while there's a reminder that she is fat and has self-esteem issues and then it's BACK to being an amateur sleuth and don't even get me STARTED on the two bizarre sidekicks (friend with no personality and dude who I guess is in love with her also with no personality?)
Seriously. I have no idea what I read. But I did. not. like. it. Sorry to be so blunt but brrrr that was give-me-the-shivers kind of bad.
Guys. What did I just read?
Look, I'm not trying to be cruel here, but this was a dumpster fire. I don't even know where to start. The first 40% were about the main character, Daphne, and how low her self-esteem is because she's fat. Or how low it was because she's fat? She's supposed to be empowered and she had her own thriving instagram and she has this best friend that matters but doesn't, whatever. Okay, so the first 40% is backstory and boring but it's a fat girl character and it's nice to read something different so I keep going.
So, then we get into a part that might be romance, I guess? And to be honest, by now I'm really confused because I thought for sure this was a romance, chick lit book and yet nothing has been a slow burn... but there's a guy and he's hitting on her and okay things are happening in the romance realm. We very suddenly get a pretty explicit (but not sexy because there is NO chemistry) sex scene. That's 50%.
Then, let's call it 55% - BOOM - there's a dead girl in a hot tub and all of a sudden our protagonist is a suspect (but is she, really, considering the cops don't care where she is EVER? Like EVER?) and she's running around interviewing people and googling things like she's an expert researching and every once in a while there's a reminder that she is fat and has self-esteem issues and then it's BACK to being an amateur sleuth and don't even get me STARTED on the two bizarre sidekicks (friend with no personality and dude who I guess is in love with her also with no personality?)
Seriously. I have no idea what I read. But I did. not. like. it. Sorry to be so blunt but brrrr that was give-me-the-shivers kind of bad.
April 10, 2020
Out of all the books I have read during this period of quarantine, this by far has been my favorite distraction read. It felt so nice to be able to relax with a solid main character and a story that held my interest as my concentration level hasn't been at a high level recently. The book was a good mix of mindless escapism and a little bit of substance but not nearly enough to make it a heavy read.
Six years Daphne Berg stopped talking to her childhood friend, Drue Cavanaugh, after a huge fight. Drue has good looks, money, and charm but she's also one of those Mean Girl types and Daphne was always regulated to a more sidekick role rather than the two of them being equals. But now Daphne has achieved some success as a plus-size influencer on social media and Drue reneters her life asking for a big favor. You see Drue is getting married to a reality tv star and she wants Daphne to be one of her bridesmaids. Given the wedding will get a lot of press, career wise it would be smart for Daphne to accept, but by doing so she opens herself up to potentially getting hurt again.
Daphne is someone who you can't help but root for and want her to be happy and successful in life. While we all know a Drue type person in real life, most of us more like Daphne and that's why she is a relatable character.
This is a quick and easy read but there are quite a few things going on in the story. I found myself fascinated with Daphne's relationships with other people in her life besides Drue as it provided a good context to who she was as a person. The social media aspects of the story were interesting to me as well. I don't want to give away too much of the plot but there are two rather distinct parts of the story. I might not have loved everything in the second part but I do like it when writers take a chance and keep readers on their toes.
Definitely recommend if you are looking for a decent escape from the real world type of read. I normally would say this is a good beach/vacation read but time's have changed so let's just call it a good quarantine read.
Thank you to Atria Books and Netgalley for providing me an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
Six years Daphne Berg stopped talking to her childhood friend, Drue Cavanaugh, after a huge fight. Drue has good looks, money, and charm but she's also one of those Mean Girl types and Daphne was always regulated to a more sidekick role rather than the two of them being equals. But now Daphne has achieved some success as a plus-size influencer on social media and Drue reneters her life asking for a big favor. You see Drue is getting married to a reality tv star and she wants Daphne to be one of her bridesmaids. Given the wedding will get a lot of press, career wise it would be smart for Daphne to accept, but by doing so she opens herself up to potentially getting hurt again.
Daphne is someone who you can't help but root for and want her to be happy and successful in life. While we all know a Drue type person in real life, most of us more like Daphne and that's why she is a relatable character.
This is a quick and easy read but there are quite a few things going on in the story. I found myself fascinated with Daphne's relationships with other people in her life besides Drue as it provided a good context to who she was as a person. The social media aspects of the story were interesting to me as well. I don't want to give away too much of the plot but there are two rather distinct parts of the story. I might not have loved everything in the second part but I do like it when writers take a chance and keep readers on their toes.
Definitely recommend if you are looking for a decent escape from the real world type of read. I normally would say this is a good beach/vacation read but time's have changed so let's just call it a good quarantine read.
Thank you to Atria Books and Netgalley for providing me an advance digital copy in exchange for an honest review!
June 27, 2020
Full of surprises and a deep dive into the world of influencers, body image, and acceptance.
Characters: ★★★★
Body Image Discussions: ★★★
Plot/Arc: ★★★★
Daphne is a plus-size influencer in our modern world of Instagram, social media careers, and body acceptance. But she's still at the "accepting" part when it comes to her own body—and the life she leads on Instagram is a constant push/pull with her internal monologue.
Drue Cavanaugh used to be Daphne's best friend, but when she burned Daphne and made their last fight about Daphne's weight, Daphne escaped. Drue was rich, thin, blonde, and perfect—it was time for Daphne to cut her losses.
Years later, out of the blue, Drue contacts Daphne and asks her to be in her wedding. She even offers to pay her. Turns out Drue's mean girl self hasn't done her any favors. Daphne knows she's been coerced and bribed, but she says yes anyway. She's never been able to say no to Drue for very long.
Big Summer is mostly about Daphne's experience at the Cape with Drue's wedding, but it's also series of memories of Daphne's childhood. And, more specifically, a journey through Daphne's mind as she glitches on every single moment with thoughts on her body and body size.
Also, there was a huge twist about halfway through Big Summer that I was NOT expecting. I'm so glad the description didn't allude to it. I thought it made this novel so much better, and really enjoyed where it took Daphne.
If I had to pick a negative, I'd say that this novel is the most "fat-focused" of any Jennifer Weiner that I've read so far. That feels weird to say as a negative, but hear me out—as someone who is plus-sized herself, I found it disheartening that literally every single moment, every single thought, and every single plot point focused or mentioned something explicitly related to Daphne's weight. At the beginning, I was like "Yes! Someone gets it!" but towards the first half...and the middle...and the end...I felt myself wishing, desperately, for more balance in the main character. In a way, by focusing on this aspect of Daphne so much, we went past highlighting her "acceptance" to reducing her to that one characteristic...which I feel was a problem, as we're trying to make plus-size women feel seen and normalized...not reduced to their weight, or distilled down to one trait of self body-hate.
However, overall I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and am thrilled to see where Jennifer Weiner takes us next—don't miss this one this summer!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
Characters: ★★★★
Body Image Discussions: ★★★
Plot/Arc: ★★★★
Daphne is a plus-size influencer in our modern world of Instagram, social media careers, and body acceptance. But she's still at the "accepting" part when it comes to her own body—and the life she leads on Instagram is a constant push/pull with her internal monologue.
Drue Cavanaugh used to be Daphne's best friend, but when she burned Daphne and made their last fight about Daphne's weight, Daphne escaped. Drue was rich, thin, blonde, and perfect—it was time for Daphne to cut her losses.
Years later, out of the blue, Drue contacts Daphne and asks her to be in her wedding. She even offers to pay her. Turns out Drue's mean girl self hasn't done her any favors. Daphne knows she's been coerced and bribed, but she says yes anyway. She's never been able to say no to Drue for very long.
Big Summer is mostly about Daphne's experience at the Cape with Drue's wedding, but it's also series of memories of Daphne's childhood. And, more specifically, a journey through Daphne's mind as she glitches on every single moment with thoughts on her body and body size.
Also, there was a huge twist about halfway through Big Summer that I was NOT expecting. I'm so glad the description didn't allude to it. I thought it made this novel so much better, and really enjoyed where it took Daphne.
If I had to pick a negative, I'd say that this novel is the most "fat-focused" of any Jennifer Weiner that I've read so far. That feels weird to say as a negative, but hear me out—as someone who is plus-sized herself, I found it disheartening that literally every single moment, every single thought, and every single plot point focused or mentioned something explicitly related to Daphne's weight. At the beginning, I was like "Yes! Someone gets it!" but towards the first half...and the middle...and the end...I felt myself wishing, desperately, for more balance in the main character. In a way, by focusing on this aspect of Daphne so much, we went past highlighting her "acceptance" to reducing her to that one characteristic...which I feel was a problem, as we're trying to make plus-size women feel seen and normalized...not reduced to their weight, or distilled down to one trait of self body-hate.
However, overall I thoroughly enjoyed this one, and am thrilled to see where Jennifer Weiner takes us next—don't miss this one this summer!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for an ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram
March 3, 2020
The first half of this novel is written in the style I’ve come to know and love from Ms. Weiner. Daphne Berg was a scholarship student at a private school. She was friends with the nerdy misfits, but she was honored to bask in glow of Drue Lathrop Cavanaugh, the wealthy, beautiful girl, who sometimes made Daphne feel like the queen of the world and sometimes made her feel insecure because of her bigger size in a world of skinny, cosmetic-surgery-enhanced rich people.
Daphne has done her best to stop body shaming herself and become a social media influencer—a starter one, but with potential for growth. When Drue reenters her life after six years begging her to be her maid-of-honor (Daphne wasn’t the only friend she lost because of her penchant for cruelty), Daphne reluctantly agrees.
The second half becomes a mystery. I enjoyed it, it’s just not Weiner’s usual style. Which is fine—she’s such a talented writer I’ll follow her anywhere; it was just unexpected.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which will be RELEASED MAY 19, 2020.
Daphne has done her best to stop body shaming herself and become a social media influencer—a starter one, but with potential for growth. When Drue reenters her life after six years begging her to be her maid-of-honor (Daphne wasn’t the only friend she lost because of her penchant for cruelty), Daphne reluctantly agrees.
The second half becomes a mystery. I enjoyed it, it’s just not Weiner’s usual style. Which is fine—she’s such a talented writer I’ll follow her anywhere; it was just unexpected.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to review this novel, which will be RELEASED MAY 19, 2020.
July 26, 2020
After years of insecurity, Daphne Berg finally feels like she has her life together. In addition to her job, she is a plus-size aspiring social media influencer. Her former friend Drue Cavanaugh re-enters her life begging Daphne to be her maid-of-honor. Daphne is surprised as the two of them haven’t spoken in years, following a major fight, but Drue convinces her by promising a fun time in Cape Cod.
The wedding weekend arrives with a beautiful setting but Cavanaugh family tensions are high and secrets are brewing. The story takes a turn overnight, shifting from lighter fiction to a “whodunnit” mystery though this too felt on the lighter side.
It took nearly half the book for me to really become interested in the story — The first part was slow, the second was more engaging, but even once the reveal occurred, it felt like a reach. Daphne was a genuine character, if a little too trusting and juvenile for my preference. Big Summer includes themes of self-acceptance, female friendship, and social media —I liked (but didn’t love) it.
The wedding weekend arrives with a beautiful setting but Cavanaugh family tensions are high and secrets are brewing. The story takes a turn overnight, shifting from lighter fiction to a “whodunnit” mystery though this too felt on the lighter side.
It took nearly half the book for me to really become interested in the story — The first part was slow, the second was more engaging, but even once the reveal occurred, it felt like a reach. Daphne was a genuine character, if a little too trusting and juvenile for my preference. Big Summer includes themes of self-acceptance, female friendship, and social media —I liked (but didn’t love) it.
October 31, 2020
I picked this up for a light, easy, happy read and came away with a lot more than I expected, which was a great surprise. I love a good "woman in the city/relationship/friendship novel" and got that with a character serious about self reflection and a it's a whodunnit to boot! But it still stays light and is a fun engrossing, entertaining distraction.
Daphne is a plus sized influencer who is living her best life when she decides to let her high school best friend, Drue, back into that life. They had a terrible viral end to their friendship but even so, Daphne agrees to go to Drue's wedding weekend in Cape Cod. Shenanigans ensue..
I really loved Daphne and her family, they were so real. I also loved Daphne's perspectives on female body image, self-love and confidence. I liked her honesty, tenacity and friendships. This was not just a formulaic delivery of the usual beach-read and that was refreshing.
What I didn't like, really I'll just be frank, the very graphic sex scene. It's so not me lol 🤷🏼♀️ I always say that I don't find that people write descriptions of characters putting each piece of clothing on or a step by step of how they start their car, and this I also do not need in a book. But I fully realize that is a "me" preference and some people need that for a book to connect. So am just putting it out there as it was the only thing about this book that kind of ruined it for me. But I kept reading and was glad that I did because it was a great story. So just putting it out there, cause if you're into that, it might be a 5 star for you 💁🏼♀️ and if you're not, just skim that part😅
Other than that misstep for me, I would + recommend that you enjoy a slice of big summer to brighten up your November🌞
Daphne is a plus sized influencer who is living her best life when she decides to let her high school best friend, Drue, back into that life. They had a terrible viral end to their friendship but even so, Daphne agrees to go to Drue's wedding weekend in Cape Cod. Shenanigans ensue..
I really loved Daphne and her family, they were so real. I also loved Daphne's perspectives on female body image, self-love and confidence. I liked her honesty, tenacity and friendships. This was not just a formulaic delivery of the usual beach-read and that was refreshing.
What I didn't like, really I'll just be frank, the very graphic sex scene. It's so not me lol 🤷🏼♀️ I always say that I don't find that people write descriptions of characters putting each piece of clothing on or a step by step of how they start their car, and this I also do not need in a book. But I fully realize that is a "me" preference and some people need that for a book to connect. So am just putting it out there as it was the only thing about this book that kind of ruined it for me. But I kept reading and was glad that I did because it was a great story. So just putting it out there, cause if you're into that, it might be a 5 star for you 💁🏼♀️ and if you're not, just skim that part😅
Other than that misstep for me, I would + recommend that you enjoy a slice of big summer to brighten up your November🌞
June 6, 2020
Jennifer Weiner's Big Summer is somehow a winner
November 3, 2020
3.5 stars
Well... I've got some mixed feelings about this one. First, let me say that this is my first book by Jennifer Weiner and I'll definitely be reading more from her. I enjoyed her writing style and there are aspects of this book I loved. But there were also things that didn't work for me. I think the biggest thing was, I was expecting by the cover that this was going to be a fun chick-lit with a side dish of romance and I was here for it. I mean, look at this tagline- friendship, forgiveness, maybe some feel good emotions, right?
Well, it was a contemporary with a side of mystery. Without spoiling anything I wasn't here for the suspense and mystery aspect of the story. If I knew that would be such a large part of the book, I probably wouldn't have picked it up. What I did love was our heroine Daphne. Her voice was fantastic and so was the plus size rep. I also liked how the first chapter of the book tied into the story later on. I can see why so many friends loved this book, and I think if I would have been more in the mood for it, I would have loved it too. Alas, it was just fine for me.
Well... I've got some mixed feelings about this one. First, let me say that this is my first book by Jennifer Weiner and I'll definitely be reading more from her. I enjoyed her writing style and there are aspects of this book I loved. But there were also things that didn't work for me. I think the biggest thing was, I was expecting by the cover that this was going to be a fun chick-lit with a side dish of romance and I was here for it. I mean, look at this tagline- friendship, forgiveness, maybe some feel good emotions, right?
The #1 New York Times bestselling author of the “nothing short of brilliant” (People) Mrs. Everything returns with an unforgettable novel about friendship and forgiveness set during a disastrous wedding on picturesque Cape Cod.
Well, it was a contemporary with a side of mystery. Without spoiling anything I wasn't here for the suspense and mystery aspect of the story. If I knew that would be such a large part of the book, I probably wouldn't have picked it up. What I did love was our heroine Daphne. Her voice was fantastic and so was the plus size rep. I also liked how the first chapter of the book tied into the story later on. I can see why so many friends loved this book, and I think if I would have been more in the mood for it, I would have loved it too. Alas, it was just fine for me.
Audio book source: Libby (library borrow)
Story Rating: 3.5 stars
Narrators: Danielle Macdonald
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Contemporary/Women's Fiction
Length: 10 hours and 54 minutes
June 13, 2021
This book was thought provoking, exciting, fun, modern and sexy! It’s women’s fiction and a suspenseful mystery too! It’s like getting a two for one.
Our main character is Daphne Berg who is a plus size social media influencer who has finally after years of being bullied, attacked, shamed and pitied. Daphne’s social media following has grown steadily as he learns to love herself and her body.
A phone call from Drue, one of Daphne’s nemesis, who made high school a living hell, begs Daphne to be a part of her wedding party and the years’ most celebrated wedding to be featured in Vogue. Daphne remembers the trauma but also knows that being in this wedding will increase her social media influence.
What happens next in Cape Cod is what you have to read about. I tried not to read to much about this book so that you can experience for yourself Weiner’s brilliance in unfolding the story to completely change the atmosphere and add that surprising element I found that made this such an enjoyable read!
Our main character is Daphne Berg who is a plus size social media influencer who has finally after years of being bullied, attacked, shamed and pitied. Daphne’s social media following has grown steadily as he learns to love herself and her body.
A phone call from Drue, one of Daphne’s nemesis, who made high school a living hell, begs Daphne to be a part of her wedding party and the years’ most celebrated wedding to be featured in Vogue. Daphne remembers the trauma but also knows that being in this wedding will increase her social media influence.
What happens next in Cape Cod is what you have to read about. I tried not to read to much about this book so that you can experience for yourself Weiner’s brilliance in unfolding the story to completely change the atmosphere and add that surprising element I found that made this such an enjoyable read!
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