That Summer

By: Jennifer Weiner

4/5 🔆🔆🔆🔆

**I received a free copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review**

**Trigger Warning: Rape, sexual assault, suicide**

This book was much harder for me to get through than a normal Jennifer Weiner book. I don't know exactly what I was expecting, but it wasn't a #metoo story. Don't get me wrong, this was beautifully written, but it was raw and difficult to read. I think that was the point, and I'd question anyone who didn't find this a difficult, yet important read. I loved the way it prominently showed two sides: the survivor and the unsuspecting wife. I think there were so many more survivors in this story than just one.

I don't know... I'm having trouble putting my thoughts into words. I've read a lot of books similar to this one, but there was something about the voices that struck me differently. Seeing the effect the rape had on all parties, even years and years down the line, was eye-opening. I do have one complaint, however. I feel like Beatrice's storyline was just left. We get this insight into her life at school, but then... nothing. None of it is followed up on. We get a weird little epilogue at the end, but it's not revealing. I'm sure that was intentional, but it wasn't my cup of tea for that particular arc.

I also wanted more to happen... but I also think Weiner didn't have such a happy ending because that's not real life. Justice isn't always served the way it should be, and That Summer was a true testament to that. I think it'll take me a few days to digest this story. Not my favorite of hers, but still one I'm happy I read.

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