"The Summer of Lost and Found"

"The Summer of Lost and Found" by Mary Alice Monroe 

Resilient, strong, and determined aptly describe the Rutledge

family. With their fierce sense of commitment and loyalty

to one another, they've survived many challenges and setbacks 

over the years. 

But, like so many others, that toughness of spirit will be tested

in ways they never imagined, as a global pandemic spreads havoc 

around the world. 

For Linnea Rutledge, being furloughed from her dream job at 

the South Carolina Aquarium is a huge disappointment, and a

financial nightmare. It means giving up her privacy to look for 

a roommate to share expenses at Primrose Cottage, a home filled

with  rich, Rutledge history that she cherishes and adores. Emotions 

run high when Linnea discovers that John, the man who rejected

her after an impulsive move to California, is now living next door under 

quarantine with his mother. Their relationship ended with some 

soul-searching on her part, so why is Linnea finding his clever 

overtures to rekindle their romance, increasingly hard to ignore? 

To complicate things, Linnea's new British love interest, Gordon,

is set to return to the Isle of Palms after spending time in England.

Sparks are about to ignite, as Linnea finds herself in an unanticipated

love triangle, with both men vying for her affections. Fearful of making 

the wrong decision only adds to the uncertainty in her already

tumultuous life. 

As always, her Aunt Cara is a solid, soothing source of comfort.

But Cara is facing troubles of her own. Husband David is stricken

with Covid, and must remain in quarantine within their home, 

leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness for Cara. She fears

what exposure could mean for her immune-compromised young

daughter. Her strong marriage is showing the strain of living together,

yet so far apart.  

With a little ingenuity and creativity, this small circle of friends and family

finally unite to overcome the obstacles only a crisis like the pandemic can

bring. 

Mary Alice Monroe's signature style of writing is evident in every chapter of

her newest release. Whether it be the return of the sea turtles, heart-

wrenching family drama, sprinkles of humor, or environmental awareness, 

the message of the healing power of love, always comes shining through.

But this time, the author writes of forgiveness, compassion, and hope

in a more self-reflective, introspective way. We welcome the next Rutledge

generation as they take center stage in this current, compelling story 

showcasing warm, familiar characters we know so well.