I really enjoyed this book. I did not realize until after I finished the book that its author also wrote “The Dressmaker’s Dowry” which I really enjoyed.
The story alternates between Violet Harcourt in the 1940s and Marisol (Mari) Cruz in 2007. Violet Harcourt was a beautiful California girl who dreamed of making it big in Hollywood. Although married at the time to an abusive, controlling husband, she entered a local beauty pageant in her hometown of Santa Cruz and won. This was her ticket to Hollywood. Violet found that the glittering world of Hollywood didn’t meet her expectations. So she made a shocking choice that left people to wonder why this beauty queen died so young.
Then in 2007 single mother Mari, while researching the history of Santa Cruz, also her hometown, comes across the story of Violet’s death. She discovers that her grandfather Ricardo Cruz, once a famous Boardwalk performer, had a connection to Violet. So, of course, she had to find out what their connection was.
Everyone is keeping secrets – Violet, Mari, Mari’s grandfather. Why? Who were they protecting? And who will be harmed when the secrets are revealed?
This story of tragedy and courage kept me captivated. The characters were endearing – well, most of them. While there are moments of heartbreak, there are also moments of joy. Betrayal overcome by the bond of friendship. Cowardice excelled by love. It is a beautiful story that will linger with you like water lapping at your toes as the tide comes in.

Mari, Violet, and Ricardo have a connection.

No one knew about the connection until Mari decided to do some research.

BOARDWALK SUMMER smoothly goes back and forth from 1940 to 2010.

Violet is married, enters a beauty pageant in 1940, wins the pageant, but then relinquishes the win because only unmarried women are allowed to enter. She also gives up the crown because her abusive, controlling husband was furious. Violet then does a few unlikely and out-of-character things.

Mari is an unmarried mother in 2010 who works as a waitress even though she has a history degree. Her history degree has her uncovering information about Violet and the history of a gazebo where her grandparents met while dancing. The gazebo is currently slated to be torn down, but Mari just can't let that happen. Her research leads to unpleasant secrets about the connection between Violet and Ricardo as well as many other family secrets.

Ricardo is Mari's grandfather who used to perform on the Boardwalk. He and Violet were friends.

BOARDWALK SUMMER was a beautiful read for me. The story line and the characters are heartwarming and unique.

Mari was precious along with her entire family. Violet was sweet, but naive. You can't help but feel pangs of pity as well as love for both of them.

Historical fiction fans, those that enjoy family sagas, and anyone who loves an endearing story about families and their family history will enjoy BOARDWALK SUMMER.

Don’t miss reading Ms. Jaeger’s newest gem. Loved it.

Tissues needed not for sadness, but for the happiness I felt for the characters. 5/5

This book was given to me free of charge and without compensation by the publisher and NetGalley in return for an honest review.