I love Erica Jame’s gritty tales but this one came as a bit of a surprise. Don’t be lured by the summery cover or the quote ‘a glorious summer read’, yes it’s set in the summer but it’s a very dark summer entwined in the unfortunate happenings of a close group of friends. It’s a little complex, very thought provoking and strips the negatives of friendships down to their very bones. As ever, Erica James shows off her wonderful writing skills and sucks you into the world of her characters, so you live and breathe their very existence... this time I was rather pleased to escape alive and with my reputation intact. It has a theatrical feel to it; flashes of Daphne de Maurier, perhaps a hint of Swan Lake? Definitely read it, but suffice to say I won’t ever be staying at Linston End. ( )

This is a warm, character-based novel featuring a group of friends who have spent their summers together in a big house on the Norfolk Broads for many years. But the house owner lost his wife some months before the story starts, and has made a decision to do something that is likely to upset all his friends...

The characterisation is excellent, and though the cast is large (there are eight main characters, as well as two other important ones) they are three-dimensional enough that I had no trouble remembering who was whom. There are many storylines weaving in and out of each other, uncovering the ways in which even the closest of friends are not always entirely honest with each other.

Although primarily character-based, there are a few dramatic incidents and a couple of shocks. The ending, if a tad bittersweet, is very well done. I found it almost impossible to put down!

Very highly recommended to anyone who likes this genre of thoughtful women's fiction.

Full review here: https://suesbookreviews.blogspot.com/2020/05/swallowtail-summer-by-erica-james.h... ( )