Summer Shadows

The Summer Guests: Unraveling Mysteries in Purity, Maine

In her latest novel, The Summer Guests, Tess Gerritsen immerses readers in the serene yet enigmatic setting of Purity, Maine. This captivating location, known for its summer visitors, is characterized by a stark divide between the affluent seasonal residents and the local working class, all while concealing deep-seated secrets.

Plot Overview

The narrative follows Maggie Bird, a former CIA operative who has embraced a quieter life focused on farming and local markets. Alongside her fellow ex-spies—Declan, Ben, Ingrid, and Lloyd—Maggie engages in social activities such as martini nights and book clubs, yet the remnants of their covert past linger. Their tranquil retirement takes a dramatic turn when a teenage girl, Zoe, goes missing from her family’s vacation home, prompting the Martini Club to take matters into their own hands.

The Disappearance of Zoe Conover

Zoe is the step-granddaughter of the wealthy Conover family, vacationing at Moonview Cottage to honor the memory of their patriarch. As they cope with this loss, tensions arise, particularly with Susan, Zoe’s mother, who is increasingly troubled by her family’s indifference toward Zoe’s disappearance.

The investigation uncovers a range of family dynamics among the Conovers, including the antagonism directed toward them from local resident Reuben Tarkin, further complicating the search with his unexplainable animosity.

The Martini Club’s Investigation

Despite warnings from acting Police Chief Jo Thidobeau, the Martini Club utilizes their espionage skills to navigate the increasing complexities surrounding Zoe’s case. As they dig deeper, their advanced skills in unearthing hidden truths place them ahead of local law enforcement, raising suspicions about their true intentions.

The situation escalates when authorities discover a decaying body in the waters of Maiden Pond, leading to a dual investigation into both the missing girl and the identity of the long-buried corpse.

Multiple Perspectives

Gerritsen expertly weaves a multifaceted narrative, allowing readers to experience the unfolding drama from various viewpoints. Whether it’s Susan’s frantic search for her daughter or Jo’s struggle to maintain authority while grappling with the Martini Club’s input, each character adds depth to the ongoing mystery.

A Reflection on Class and Community

The Summer Guests is not just a conventional mystery; it paints a vivid picture of class tensions within a small town struggling with societal divisions between the wealthy vacationers and the locals. The narrative prompts contemplation on broader issues such as community dynamics, friendship, and the haunting impacts of past decisions.

Author Insights

In a recent interview, Tess Gerritsen discussed her inspiration behind this novel: “The second book, The Summer Guests, was inspired by something very local…the retired CIA community that lives in my town.” She articulated her desire to reflect on aging, as exemplified by the character of Jo, a young police officer learning to appreciate the wisdom of older citizens.

Upcoming Works

Fans of Gerritsen will have much to look forward to as she confirms the third installment of The Martini Club series, titled The Shadow Friends, set to release in November 2026. This new book will delve into Ingrid’s life as she navigates her domestic relationship while confronting a re-emerging threat from her past.

About the Author

Tess Gerritsen is a globally recognized author with a diverse portfolio of over 30 novels that has sold more than 40 million copies worldwide. A graduate of Stanford University and the University of California, San Francisco, Gerritsen’s unique blend of medical knowledge and writing talent has led to bestsellers like Harvest and the popular Rizzoli & Isles series, which inspired a hit television series.

Book Details