I absolutely love this book. Octogenarian Kathleen is not ready to move into a retirement home as her daughter insists on suggesting, and goes on a road trip with 25 year old Martha, who’s escaping from problems in her own life. I particularly enjoyed the story thread of Kathleen’s daughter Liza, which is told in alternating chapters. Written with great descriptions as well as realistic characters, this is a fantastic read.

Another uplifting book by Sarah Morgan. The three main characters all need to reassess their lives and this summer is the time to do it. I loved my virtual journey across Route 66 – something my husband is keen to do (and maybe we will travel there one day).

Sarah Morgan looks at how the past can stop us reaching our full potential and how we need to take time to do the things we enjoy. The story features secrets, family issues, the coast, sightseeing and romance. Happy to recommend for a summer read.

I adored this gorgeous summer read, I'm new to Sarah Morgan and the cover caught my eye, I enjoyed the writing very much but it was the characters and their evolution through the book that I absolutely loved!
Kathleen is such a ball-sy character who gently softens, Liza is a stressed out worrier who learns its OK to put herself and her needs first, no mean feat with a job,husband and stroppy entitled teenagers! and Martha, lovely lovely Martha who learns that the only opinion of her that matters is her own, all to the gorgeous background of a road trip down Route 66!
A gorgeous escape for the summer, I really enjoyed it, my only slight negative was it seemed to end a little abruptly.
Thank you to HQ and Nergalley for the advance copy.

Eighty year old Kathleen and a much younger Martha decide that the only way to survive is to go on a road trip Route 66 is calling along with many comedy induced moments. I love Sarah Morgan and this book was everything I expected and more.

This is a very joyful book, just what we need at the moment. Two ladies setting off on an adventure across America. Has some laugh out loud moments putting a smile on my face.

The Summer Seekers is another hit from Sarah Morgan. A great feel good book which was both entertaining and heart warming. I loved it from start to finish and would highly recommend reading this book.. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.

The Summer Seekers is a story about rediscovering oneself, and finding joy in our lives. It tells the tale of three women: Kathleen, an octogenarian who was once a go-getting travel correspondent who is desperate to get back out in the world and take a trip across the USA along the historic route 66, and perhaps confront one or two demons from her past; her sensible daughter Liza, drowning under the weight of motherhood and a stagnant marriage, and who has always been the 'dependable' one; and Martha, a young woman employed by Kathleen to drive her along route 66, and who is escaping her own overbearing family and cheating ex-husband. We get all three POV's, and each voice is distinct, unique and because of their different ages and experiences, the story has something for all ages.
In the opening chapters, (from Kathleen's POV in particular) I found Liza to be overbearing, controlling, and quite unlikeable, but once we got more of her perspective I actually found some of her chapters particularly hard to read because of the brutal honesty in her reality, and the often thankless task of being seen only as a mother and wife. Kathleen was a little harder for me to warm to, but I appreciated her story arc and felt satisfied with it. Martha was a delight from the start and I empathised with her as the family member who was never quite good enough and always compared to her sibling.
While I found the opening a little slow to get started, once it did I couldn't help but be utterly charmed by all three women, each seeking to rediscover some joy in their oppressing lives. At a time when a lot of us will still be spending our summers at home, this was a heart-warming escape.

*Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to leave an honest review*

I have also left a review on Amazon UK but am awaiting moderation.

I loved this book.
Told from the POVs of Kathleen, Martha and Liza, set in Cornwall and on Route 66, it's full of self discovery, friendships, love and fears.
The characters are all fun and interesting and it's was great to follow their separate and joint journeys of finding who they are, who they want to be and how to put some things from their past to sleep.
A beautiful story that pulls you in from the get go!

How can you not love a Sarah Morgan story? I jump at the opportunity to read one of her books every chance I get and this one is right up there with my favourite One Summer in Paris. I mean I didn't think it was possible to top a character like Audrey. But Kathleen.....just wow. This story pulled me in from the very beginning, no warm up required, and I was there and ready for the entire journey, literally speaking.

Sarah has a special way of throwing unlikely characters into a mixing bowl and seeing what happens....I'm amazed that the results are always awe inspiring. So it is no surprise when I say that character creation is at the top of my list of favourite things about this book. Let's start with Kathleen, at 80 years old she is fiercely independent, glamorous and still determined to live life like the adventure it ought to be. Then there's Kathleen's daughter Liza, who is kind, careful and the glue that binds her family together....sometimesto a fault. Finally there's young Martha who has had a bit of tough time of things lately but is warm, wise and fond of a hyperbolic statement or ten (much to my delight). Their stories dance around one another throughout the narrative and we are witness to some of the best character developments I've read in a good long while. The women we see in the concluding chapters are worlds away from those we initially meet and it was an honour to bare witness to their transformation.

From the famous Route 66 to the beautiful backdrop of the English countryside this book has it all. Setting, story and the best bunch of people you can only hope to meet. I loved each and every moment of this story and felt truly sad when it came to an end. Congratulations Sarah on yet another spectacular story. I can't recommend The Summer Seekers enough, so if this book is not on your radar then please amend that oversight immediately.

One of my top reads of 2021. Kathleen is eighty and wants to do Route 66 across America. Her daughter Liza is aghast at this and would rather she think about sheltered accommodation. Martha is living back at home after an acrimonious divorce and the little confidence she did have has now very much been shelved, not assisted by her mother who not only thinks that the sun shines out of Martha's sister but that Martha always makes bad choices- bourne out now by her lack of job and marriage. The two meet up after Kathleen advertises for a driver- something Martha can do but again is very unsure about. The result is a symbiotic relationship where each is good for the other once they get to know one another. I loved this early on- there is something about Kathleen for all her foibles that you can't help but take to. A woman who has seen life and hindsight being that wonderful thing that it is can pass on her advice rather than criticism which is all Martha has sadly ever had. Kathleen has her own issues with Liza and for once Liza has taken her advice to get away for a while to put her own life into perspective rather than run around after two ungrateful, spoilt daughters and a busy husband whilst putting herself last. A book that is life affirming and one with lots of good advice in it: “ There are no bad decisions, just your decisions which may not be those of others” and “ I think in life we tend to regret the things we don’t do more than the things we do” . I found this heartwarming and thought provoking in a very good way. A truly wonderful read, a tonic, a pick-me-up and a smile. 10* if I could
( amazon done- misfits farm)

Another great read from Sarah Morgan and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. I felt a little emotional when I had finished it, yearning for the story to carry on even more – a bit like Kathleen’s road trip.

With three female protagonists, initially they seem incredibly contrasting and I could not foresee how Martha and Kathleen would cope on such a lengthy road trip. However, as the novel progresses, we learn so much about Martha, Kathleen and Liza, proving that they each share emotional, turbulent backgrounds that all need addressing. Undoubtedly, the road trip across America did remind me of 'Thelma and Louise', especially as it becomes apparent that Martha and Kathleen are escaping demons from back home. Furthermore, when they pick up hitchhiker Josh, I could not help but picture Brad Pitt in the back of the sports car.

All of the characters and supporting cast are incredibly sweet. I found I wanted more from all of them – even though this book is already 400 pages long. I have found that Morgan structures her novels with rather lengthy chapters; this did not put me off as I was so intrigued to see the story progress. However, it is one you can’t easily dip in and out of; this novel does require your love and attention – a bit like the characters in the book.

Morgan explores the relationship between mother and daughter, Kathleen and Liza. From the opening, it is clear that this is a rather strained relationship, with Liza frustrated by her mother’s reckless behaviour. Liza cannot understand why Kathleen would want to embark on such a long trip at her ripe age of eighty years, even more so with a stranger who has not been vetted or has background checks. Therefore, we get a sense of Liza’s cautious and caring approach which sometimes verges on suffocating. I think this is why Kathleen rebels against Liza and here we see a role reversal of the mother-daughter relationship. On the other hand, I did applaud Kathleen’s thirst for life and wished I could join her on such an epic adventure. Kathleen is vivacious, entertaining and I loved her dry humour, making me chuckle as I imagined sitting in the car with her. However, it soon is revealed that Katherine has secret regrets and perhaps this road trip is not too dissimilar to Liza’s need to escape to Cornwall.

Martha, the driver of the trip, also desires to leave her mundane life. Living with her constantly criticising parents has worn her down. I chuckled over her attitude towards driving and really warmed to her character as she grew in confidence over the trip. I wanted her to be happy because Martha is such a loving character and it was like watching a grand-daughter with her nan, such was the developing relationship between her and Kathleen.

Not just a book about relationships, we are treated to some epic locations on Route 66. How jealous did I feel? Kathleen and Martha are doing a journey that I am sure so many of us can only dream of completing. Morgan’s vivid writing takes her readers with the duo and I felt the carefree abandonment that the travellers experienced as well. As the novel switches between the three women, I still found the narrative set in Cornwall, following Liza, equally refreshing. The sea air and fresh start for Liza was rejuvenating and it reminded me that I valued each woman’s story as the novel progressed.

This was a story that had me smiling throughout and left me wanting to go on a summer adventure myself. The characters are all very appealing and I felt like I was part of their friendship circle, reflecting the depth of Morgan’s narrative. Now, several books down the line with Morgan, I think I can safely say that there has never been a “dud book” at all and, if you have yet to sample her work, this might be a lovely, summer read to begin with.

This is a fantastic story about three generations of women, their adventures and their lives….

Kathleen is a very independent eighty year old who is determined not to give in to her daughter’s suggestions that she move into a retirement home. After an unexpected encounter with an intruder and a frying pan, Kathleen decides what she needs is actually an adventure . . . . an adventure driving across America on Route 66.

Her daughter, Liza, is definitely not in favour – but her attempts to thwart her Mum’s plans fail, leaving Liza considering her own life which seems to be doing everything for everyone else and nothing for herself.

Martha is the young divorcee who applies for the job of driving Kathleen as a way to escape her home situation and ex-husband, even though she’s not a confident driver – she hopes she will be by the time she’s driven all that way!

The story is told from the point of view of these three women.

It is a story of relationships, reconnecting, sharing and opening up about feelings, the past and dreams for the future. There are many other key characters involved, including Liza’s husband and their twin teenage daughter, Kathleen’s famous but secret neighbour, a hitchhiking tech tycoon and a very distinctive cat! All of them are brought to life in this fascinating story which has a great mix of angst, matchmaking and family drama. It is another great read from this talented author and I can’t recommend it highly enough.

Thank you to HQN and Netgalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read, thoroughly enjoyed and honestly reviewed.

If you are looking for a feel good, uplifting summer read, then look no further. The Summer Seekers follows the lives of three very different women, all at different stages in their lives, but they all share the same desire – to escape their day to day lives and have an adventure.

First we meet Kathleen, an eighty year old woman who, after having a run in with an intruder in her home has to try and explain to her worried daughter as to why she has no desire to go in to a care home. Kathleen is fiercely independent, and this encounter is the final push that encourages her to chase the adventure she so desperately craves.

Unable to drive herself Kathleen puts an advertisement up online, catching the attention of Martha. Martha is going through a rather rough patch in her life, as she is now unemployed, the lack of companionship and inspiration in her life is certainly lacking. Despite her reservations about having to get back behind the wheel of a car, Martha knows this is an opportunity that she can’t pass up on.

Liza – Kathleen’s ever serious daughter – is far from happy about the idea of her mother setting off on a road trip with a woman she has only just met, and she struggles to see how her mother can even contemplate just upping and leaving her day to day life behind. We quickly come to learn that Liza is far from happy with her life, despite having a husband and twin daughters, she feels incredibly lonely and is taken for granted far too much by her family. After a heart to heart with her mother, Liza realises that it is about time she looks after herself, and embarks on her own adventure.

I adored learning about each of these women as individuals as the story unfolded. Each of the central characters had such unique personalities, and all of them were facing a different struggle in their lives that pushes them towards embarking on this adventure. All three women grew as individuals as the story progressed, and it was truly heart warming to see their confidence grow with every passing chapter.

The storyline itself is wonderfully written and refreshingly unique, allowing us to experience the journey from varying perspectives of three women, all of different generations, and the struggles in which they were facing themselves. This is a story that really captures your heart, and before long you find yourself rooting for these three women as they pursue their happiness.

An action-packed adventure - perfect for those still wanting to stay close to home. I love when a book can transport you thousands of miles and this latest release from Sarah Morgan does just that.
Kathleen is pretty cool; a kick ass 80 year old who feels no fear in bashing an intruder across the head. Determined to prove there is still adventures to be had, despite her daughters reluctance, she sets off on the trip of a lifetime. There may be an ulterior motive for this particular journey but she discovers more about herself and her relationship with her daughter along the way.
Liza is concerned about her Mum, she’s worried her marriage isn’t what it should be and she is constantly put upon by everyone around her. She’s lost sight of herself somewhere and as her Mum goes off to live out her dreams it makes Liza realise there may just be more to life, the question is what changes does she need to make?
Martha needs a direction in life. She’s not had the best of times and she doesn’t get any support from her family. Tasking a chance on an opportunity gives her a whole new lease of life, plus a little bit of romance! After a few weeks with Kathleen, Martha becomes more confident, carefree and able to see she isn’t the failure others lead her to believe.
All the components of a fun filled, adventure with laughs, love and drama along the way. I love all the characters in the book, Kathleen is awesome for her age and spirit, I felt sorry for Liza and really hoped she would loosen up a little and speak up and Martha; I really hoped she’d see the qualities in herself that were apparent to everyone who met her.
I think many people dream of doing the Route 66 adventure so was lovely to take this trip if only in book form.

Brilliant writing, which I have come to expect from this author and a story that moved along at a great pace. A brilliant summer read, I highly recommend.

After having a bit of a scare in the shape of an intruder in her home, 80 year old Kathleen re-evaluates the way she is living her life and decides she needs an adventure. One she’s been putting off since her tv show days which saw her jetting off around the world on a program called the summer seekers. Liza isn’t too happy about her mothers plan to take off on a road trip down route 66 and feels she should be thinking more about slowing down, maybe even selling her house and looking for a nursing home.
Liza is a bit of a control freak and perfectionist who tries so hard to keep everyone happy. But she is over worked and feels unappreciated by her husband, teenage twin daughters and her mother.
Kathleen employs 25 year old Martha to drive her across America.
Martha jumps at the chance to escape her overbearing family and her ex-husband who won’t leave her alone , but the one catch is she’s a terrible driver and has really low self-esteem.
The multi-generational trio embark on a journey of self- discovery.
I really enjoyed this book , it addresses issues that most women will experience at various points in their life and explores how they worked through them. The characters are so relatable. It certainly gave me food for thought.
The descriptions especially those of the house and surroundings in Cornwall were just idyllic, made me want to visit there.
An uplifting summer story, full of adventure humour and romance. Utterly unputdownable! If you are looking for the perfect holiday read then look no further!

A beautifully written book about Kathleen and Martha’s amazing Route 66 road trip. Kathleen has lead a full life but she still wants more. Martha is in her early 20’s and trying to work out what direction her life should go in. The unlikely friendship between these two was beautiful to read and gave me all the feels. Sarah Morgan knows exactly what type of characters her audience want and need. Recommended for a light read with some real life affirming lessons.

This book is certainly a winner! I was hooked from the start, Kathleen drew me in from page one and I wanted to know how her story would unfold as well as those of Liza and Martha.

Kathleen is an eighty-year-old woman living in her family home alone, when one night she is disturbed by an intruder. This sets her on a path where she wants to go on one last big adventure, a road-trip across America.

Liza, Kathleen’s daughter, has other ideas. The intruder has convinced her that her mother should be moving into a residential home and living a more sedate life to the one she is used to. Not only is Liza worried about her mother but also is dealing with the struggles of her own daily family life.

Martha desperate to escape her own daily reality, applies for and gets the job of Kathleen’s driver and companion on her American road-trip.

What is great about this book is that it is told by these three women, we swap viewpoints with each chapter. They are all of different generation, Kathleen eighty, Liza forty and Martha twenty five, and yet they all learn something from each other and so do we as the reader.
The relationship between each of these characters is something that we see grow and develop over the course of the book as well as discovering what has led them each to this place and these feelings. And it’s these relationships that I think is the biggest draw to this book. Each of these characters are great on their own, they are so different from each other and still all completely relatable, but the way they connect to each other is what brings this story together.

The fact they are on the American road-trip, although relevant and a big statement, it almost plays an undercurrent to the journey that they are really one. That hasn’t stopped me from adding Route 66 to the bucket list though.

This is the perfect summer read that is warm and uplifting.

If you take anything away from this book it’s to live life more like Kathleen.

The new novel of Sarah Morgan sees three generations of women in a journey of self-discovery: eighty-year-old Kathleen wants to live one last adventure driving across America before it’s too late; her daughter Lisa feels taken for granted by her husband and her twin daughters and maybe it’s time she thinks about herself; twenty-five-year-old Martha still hasn’t figure out what to do with her life, but she’s certainly tired of living with her parents and sister so she accepts to accompany Kathleen in her trip. As usual, Sarah Morgan chose another fantastic setting for her novel: on one side we have the incredible Route 66 as Kathleen and Martha travel from Chicago to California, on the other side, beautiful Cornwall where Lisa finds refuge. I enjoyed this novel, although not as much as the author’s previous novels. It took me a while to warm up to the characters and the story felt, at times, slow and repetitive, especially at the beginning, but halfway through I started enjoying it much more. All in all, this is an entertaining and escapist novel that will make you dream of beautiful places and will keep you entertained for a few hours.

This is a fairly light, fun book. It does what it says on the tin and gives a light hearted trip with interesting characters. Perfect for all of us trapped inside because of the pandemic. We can still get to travel, just seeing it through someone else's eyes.

Sarah Morgan is one of my favourite authors and I often read her books more than once, particularly if I am feeling low. The Summer Seekers is, as the name suggests, a blast of summer fun, perfect for this time of year, even more so if you're stuck at home on a Staycation. You'll be whisked off on holiday with Kathleen, Liza and Martha!

Kathleen used to have a popular TV travel show but now she's 80 years old and chaffing at the restrictions others (mainly her daughter, Liza) seem to want to force upon her due to her age. Liza feels Kathleen should give up her home on the beach in Cornwall and go into some form of retirement home. So Kathleen retaliates by booking a road trip across America. She can't drive but that's not a problem - she'll hire Martha to drive her!

Martha is only too eager to jump at the chance to get away from her family and ex-boyfriend, who want to belittle her at every opportunity. Won't they be surprised (and hopefully impressed) to learn she has a new job driving a TV star across America? There is only one teensy problem. Martha can't drive...

Liza can feel herself buckling beneath the pressure of being everyone's go-to woman. She worries about her too-independent mother and feels her husband and daughters are not supporting her, rather creating more work without a second thought. The final straw is coming home to find her house wrecked after a party. Using cat-sitting as an excuse, she flees to her mother's home in Cornwall to rediscover the woman she used to be.

The Summer Seekers is a feel-good, heart-warming story about three women rebelling against their family's expectations, who seize the chance for an adventure with both hands, and discover new friends and potential lovers along the way.

I particularly adored the character of Kathleen and had Dame Maggie Smith stuck in my head for most of the book. What a terrific film this would make! Martha was sweet and I enjoyed how she gained confidence with every mile, even having a romance along the way. I think the character that resonated most with me was Liza. Who hasn't fantasised about giving up the stresses of everyday life and heading to Cornwall and the beach. And finding a sexy rock star living next door? Bonus!



The Summer Seekers will be published on 27th May 2021.

Thank you to Sarah Morgan and HQ for my copy of this book, which I requested via NetGalley and reviewed voluntarily.