Published in June 2024 by G.P. Putnam’s Sons, the book is available on Amazon in hardcover, paperback, Kindle, audiobook, and at your local library or through the Libby App.

Ali Morris is a professional organizer whose life is a mess. Two years ago, her mother died. On the one-year anniversary, her husband, Peter, announced he wanted a divorce. Now, at the two-year mark, she is still unmoored. Her house is out of control, and she and Peter begin mediation to finalize their divorce.

Ali hasn’t worn pants with a zipper for as long as she can remember. Her best friend Franny keeps telling her to change that, and no, overalls do not count. Yet, on the day she puts on a pair, removes her wedding ring, and ventures out to the dog park, her dog pees on a cute dog owner.

Ethan finds the dog endearing, even with wet socks. He overlooks it to take the chance to meet the owner. From the way she looks at him, Ethan knows Ali does not recognize him, and he looks forward to being grown-up Ethan instead of Scooter, Franny’s little brother. The town screw-up who once lit his family’s basement rug on fire.

Monaghan weaves in the paralyzing power of grief, a mother rediscovering her strength, a woman regaining her sense of femininity, and a man struggling to align the two halves of himself. When the two start a summer romance, they think it will be easy, and no one will get hurt. Things do not always go as planned when feelings run deep, and goodbye is around the corner.

Summer Romance is a 3.5-star read that delves into the depths of emotional turmoil and the courage it takes to reclaim your life.