A Novel
by Felicity Hayes-McCoy
The Heart of Summer is the sixth title in a series of novels that are set in Ireland. By now, Ms. Hayes-McCoy knows her characters and settings so well.
These books may well be best enjoyed in order although I have only read this title and the one from last year. The author spends a fair amount of time in the beginning of the book sharing what happened to key characters in the earlier novels so that they can move right in to Finfarran. Those who already know the books will be reminded of who their old literary friends are.
This title is leisurely in tone and gives off that sense that nothing really bad will happen to anyone. This time the main focus is on Hanna and Brian although of course others including Hanna’s daughter Jazz is also here. Brian and Hanna recently solidified their relationship and are living togehter, but now there are events that will impact them. Brian’s son is planning to spend more time with them. An old friend of Hanna’s from when she earlier lived in London comes to the village. Along with Amy, Hanna returns to England. Will she stay there or will she return to Ireland? Dedicated readers of the series will enjoy finding out as may some new readers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 05 July 2022
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 