• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Bio
  • Bookshelf
    • Audio
    • Complete List of Chautona’s Books
    • The Rockland Chronicles
      • The Vintage Wren
      • The Aggie Series
      • The Hartfield Mysteries
      • Sight Unseen Series
        • Sight Unseen Series Archives
      • The Agency Files
      • Christmas Fiction
    • Legacy of the Vines
    • Meddlin’ Madeline
      • Madeline Blog Archive
    • Ballads from the Hearth
      • Ballads from the Hearth Blog Archive
    • Legends of the Vengeance
    • Journey of Dreams
    • Wynnewood
    • Webster’s Bakery
    • The Not-So-Fairy Tales
    • Heart of Warwickshire
  • Start HERE
    • If You Like…
    • Characters
    • Suggested Reading Order
    • Free Books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Podcast
    • Podcast Guest Information
    • Podcast Interview FAQ
  • Merch Shop
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • Bonus
  • New & Coming
Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

Why This is The Book to Read This Summer

by Challice Neipp · 5 Comments

Summer by the Tides was fun, sad, quirky, engaging, and just a nice, relaxing read. If you're headed out this summer, bring it along for a perfect read. via @chautonahavig

It happens every year. Someone, somewhere asks the question. “Where’s your favorite place to read?”

The question holds heavy implications, though. It just doesn’t mean “at home” or “on the couch” or “at the beach.” Wrapped up in one six-word question are dozens of interrelated ones. Questions like:

  • Sunshine or rain?
  • Paperback or Kindle?
  • Hot tea or chocolate or… maybe a fruity iced drink with a little umbrella?

Yeah, the “favorite place to read” question comes well wrapped and tied with nuances that make it interesting.

I never know how to answer it, either.

I’ve lived in so many places—rolling countryside, orange groves, the base of the Superstition mountains, the beach, the desert, the Ozarks. In all of those places, I read books—deep books, fluffy ones, and everything in between.

I’ve also read books in places I didn’t live—the mountains, by a stream, in the sky whizzing through clouds at speeds that you just feel like you should feel. But you don’t.

So if you ask me that book one day, I may say in a house by the fire, on a couch, snuggled up in a blanket with rain beating against the windows.

On another day, I may dream of The Barn in North Carolina—that wonderful retreat place with its golden pine walls, trickling stream outside, and sneaky raccoons on the roof.

Today, after reading Summer by the Tides, I’d say the beach. Ocean breezes, sand between my toes, massive amounts of sunscreen that will do nothing to protect me from getting red and miserable, an icy Coke, and a book. A good one.

This is happening on Saturday. Our family is going down to Irvine for #5daughter’s graduation from UCI and #7daughter’s request was a beach—not Newport. We’ve done that one too much, apparently.

I’ll be reading a book by an author who, coincidentally, I’ll be seeing on Wednesday—all the way from Wisconsin. Go Pack Go?

I kind of wish, however, I could have been reading the book I just finished.

Summer by the Tides by Denise Hunter. The minute I saw the title and the author, I knew I had to request a review copy. It’s been a few years—probably a decade since I read anything by Denise Hunter, and I remembered liking her.

There was, however, this tiny niggle of trepidation. Why? Well, because I’ve discovered that if you take time off from reading an author’s works, or they take a sabbatical from writing, sometimes you go back, reread, and just aren’t impressed anymore.

It’s happened to me a few times, and I’m sure it’s happened to my readers, too. I didn’t want it to happen again.

Why This is The Book to Read This Summer Summer by the Tides review

Note: Links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. Additionally, I requested a review copy of this book and chose to review it.

Why This is The Book to Read This Summer

After about a decade of not reading anything by Denise Hunter, I’m glad I chose Summer by the Tides to break my unintended hiatus. Maybe I should clarify. I did not purposefully choose not to read Ms. Hunter’s work. It was just one of those life things.

But seriously, this book was exactly what I needed this week. See, I’ve just read two really good books—both put out by Ms. Hunter’s publisher. While I really enjoyed them, I had gotten nervous about Thomas Nelson and the direction it seemed the company might be going.

Well, I didn’t see it in this book.

Seriously, Summer by the Tides has everything a good summer read should as well as some solid, spiritual encouragement. I really can’t find anything to object to. The author even dipped her toe into spiritual waters that I don’t theologically agree with—and left it there. She brought up a possibility without stating, “This is how things are. Thus saith the Lord” in any way, shape, or form.

I looked for problems—trust me. Full confession here. I was on high alert for them. When two characters show some hint of attraction, I was ready to scream, “INSTA-LOVE! Unrealistic!”

Then it hit me.

I was being ridiculous. At that point, I went back a few chapters and started over. So glad I did.

From page one rich, multi-layered writing captures your attention and your heart. Everything is layered like a good phyllo pastry. And, like said pastry, it crumbles as you bite into it.

In the best way.

Because when characters crumble on the pages of our books, we see who they are underneath all those layers. Sometimes authors do that, you know. The pile on layers to characters until those poor fictional people look ready to brave a Minnesota blizzard. Except the book takes place in July. In Cancun.

Hunter was brilliant. She wrapped her characters in that phyllo dough and allowed them to be laid bare for us to see, to understand, to empathize and sympathize with.

Even the bits that might have seemed implausible just… weren’t. Every time I wanted to snap at one character for being so unforgiving—for not even listening to apologies—I’d realize those apologies hadn’t been made.

Not lately.

And looking at pain I see play out in my life, I see that this is exactly how it works.

Maybe that’s what’s so great about this book. Perhaps it’s just that it feels like I’ve seen it play out before—and yet I haven’t. Not this exact story. Not this exact way.

Sure, it’s a family drama/romance. It’s romantic women’s fiction, actually. Twenty years ago, I might have even said it was unrealistic and soap-operatic. But I’ve learned in the last couple of decades that there are more deep, ugly, unbelievable things in more “normal” families than I’d ever imagined.

It doesn’t just touch the unsaved. Christian husbands wake up to discover wives they don’t recognize anymore. Christian kids discover a lifetime of secrets their parents hid from them. And, sometimes, Christians even “put God on a shelf” while they try to live their lives without Him. Books like this one show what happens when we do those things.

Even better, this book has something for everyone.

For the romance buff—it’s there. In spades. And for people like Pepper Basham, there’s even one totally “stick-your-head-in-the-freezer-kiss.” I actually read it.

Okay, that’s a lie. But I did read part of it. Made it through a bit before I just turned that page. But for me, that’s equivalent to saying I read it three times or something. It’s kind of the beach read equivalent to the “train kiss” at the end of North and South.

That’s high praise—the only kiss I’ve ever NOT turned my head from. Just sayin’.

Okay, in the interest of full disclosure, I should admit that most of the time I do. I’ve seen it over and over. But I recall making myself watch the whole thing when I realized I wasn’t squirming and miserable inside the first time.

I digress.

For people who love family drama? Got it. Want a good misunderstanding? It has that, too. How about unexpected romance? Yep! Learning what the Lord means when He calls us to trust? One character learns that one.

It even has an adorable dog, okay?

Once upon a decade ago, Denise Hunter had a row of books on my shelf. Time passed, people asked to borrow something good to read, and I passed them on. Now her “spot” sits empty.

Well, it did. Summer by the Tides just took up residence there. As for me, I’m off to find another Denise Hunter book to join it. After all, it should have a sibling close, don’t you think

Share247
Pin
Post
Email
251Shares
Share
Pin
Post
Email
251Shares

Filed Under: Book Reviews

Previous Post: « What’s Going on In the Christian Fiction World Right Now?
Next Post: Is The Famine of the Human Dream Worth Reading? »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Or, you can subscribe without commenting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments

  1. Sara says

    June 12, 2019 at 3:44 pm

    I really enjoy reading your reviews! I find Denise Hunter books to be pretty light and quick reads. This book was right in line – an easy, fun beach or pool read. I haven’t read one in a while, but you are so on target about reading an author after a long hiatus.

    Reply
  2. Andrea Stoeckel says

    June 12, 2019 at 12:22 pm

    Been a long time since I’ve read a Denise Hunter book….hopefully that’ will change

    Reply
  3. Patty says

    June 12, 2019 at 10:50 am

    I just love your reviews Chautona! Denise Hunter is usually a pretty safe bet for me, I almost always enjoy her books. Glad to hear that there is a little depth to this one.

    Reply
  4. Rachel Dodson says

    June 12, 2019 at 10:24 am

    I think you have convinced me to try this one. I’ll be honest and say that I have read acouple of her books and didn’t enjoy them. However you make this one sound like one I’ll really like! Great review as always!

    Reply
  5. Pam says

    June 12, 2019 at 8:35 am

    Morning Chautona,
    I agree with you on reading an author you read in the past, then read something new. Sometimes it continues on, sometimes it feels like something is missing. That said, I love Denise Hunter and will look at getting this book.
    Thanks for the review and have a wonderful time at the beach!
    Pam

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 429: A Chat with J. A. Webb
byChautona Havig

Christian dystopian thrillers are too few and far between, but author J. A. Webb has a great one for us. Listen in while we chat about his Seekers Series and the second book, Inheritance.

note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Mix a corrupt secret society along with a priest on the run, and you’ve got a great mix. This series promises to be full of amazing twists and turns. 

  Inheritance by J. A. Webb

 A Dystopian Thriller of Deception, Faith, and the Fight for Truth

The Order has been betrayed. The hunters have been loosed.

Father Curtis has forsaken his vows. He has left the Order and joined the Seekers, a hidden rebellion dedicated to uncovering the truth long buried by the global church. But walking away from the Order does not mean escaping its reach.

When word spreads that a copy of the True Text — the original thirty-nine books of the Creator — has surfaced on the far side of the world, Curtis, Professor Reuel, and Phillip embark on a desperate mission. If they can retrieve the artifact, it could change everything. If they fail, the truth will be lost forever.

But the Eye of the Eternal, the secret police of the Order, has already mobilized. Their assassins are relentless. Their power is absolute. And they will stop at nothing to silence the truth.

Outnumbered and hunted, Curtis and his allies must risk everything to defy an empire built on deception. But against such overwhelming darkness, is faith enough? Or will their inheritance — humanity’s true past — be erased from history once and for all?

The war for truth has begun. And the Order will not suffer heretics to live.

A Gripping Tale of Power, Deception, and the Courage to Seek Truth

🔥 Perfect for fans of dystopian thrillers like 1984, Brave New World, and The Da Vinci Code—but with a Christian twist!

⚡ A suspense-filled journey into a world where illusion is law and questioning it means death.

📖 If you love stories of faith, defiance, and the battle against unseen tyranny, this is the book for you.

The Order has ruled from the shadows long enough. Are you ready to see the truth?

Learn more about J. A. Webb on his WEBSITE and follow him on GoodReads and BookBub.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple
  • Castbox
  • Google Play
  • Libsyn
  • RSS
  • Spotify
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Episode 429:  A Chat with J. A. Webb
Episode 429: A Chat with J. A. Webb
May 12, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 428: A Chat with Janelle Leonard
May 10, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 427: A Chat with Donna Wichelman
May 5, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 426: A Chat with Dell Vans
May 3, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 425: A Chat with Bethany Klassen
April 28, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 424: A chat with Demi Griffin
April 26, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 423: A Chat with Hope Toler Dougherty
April 21, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 422: A Chat with Becca Wierwille
April 19, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 421: A chat with Chawna Schroeder
April 14, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 420: A Chat with Jeremiah Friedli
April 12, 2025
Chautona Havig
Search Results placeholder

Love Audio Books?

audio book ad

Featured Books

An Evergreen Christmas

An Evergreen Christmas

Love Blooms on Valentine’s

Love Blooms on Valentine’s

Clock Tower Bound

Clock Tower Bound
Buy This Book Online
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Buy from Amazon
Purchase with Paypal
Clock Tower Bound
Buy now!

Upcoming Posts

Sorry - nothing planned yet!

Or just subscribe to the newsletter

Recent Blog Posts

  • So, There Was That Time I Forgot What I Knew…
  • “Be Careful Little Mouth What You Say” Ain’t No Lie
  • Why Romance Is a Hairy Proposition (or is that proposal?)

I buy my stickers here! (affiliate)

Custom Stickers, Die Cut Stickers, Bumper Stickers - Sticker Mule
The days of kids bringing in a fistful of flowers The days of kids bringing in a fistful of flowers has been gone for a very long time... until today when it wasn't.  @lornarose9 brought these home today and made my day. Happy Mother's Day to me!
Thanks to all my local kids for coming and having dinner with us,  to @andralane0129 for making most of it, and to @havigk4 for my organizational gift. Also, to #MrBrilliantAndHandsomeToo for cleaning up.
It was a beautiful day. I am blessed. 
#GodIsGood
#MothersDay2025
Hiding from the gang that tried to kill him, Leo j Hiding from the gang that tried to kill him, Leo just wants to keep a low profile and start over. He didn't count on his first friend being someone like Allison.
The Kasimirs won't let him go unpunished.
Allison won't let him go unfriended.
What's a guy to do?
Listen FREE to a new chapter every day in November AND the complete book after the end of the month: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eLI5ZH6YUk&list=PLGJaJiSo6mQ2dDLCnbGRORVFd5Rg1y7rR&pp=iAQB
Also available on all major audiobook platforms AND on Kindle Unlimited.
Narrated by the fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo
#Audiobooks
#YouTube
#FreeAudiobooks
#KindleUnlimited
#ChristianRomanticSuspense
Reposted from @twodogsanthologies Have you read Ju Reposted from @twodogsanthologies Have you read Justice yet? Now you can get this first volume of the Long Hot Summer series in eBook and paperback 😎

With FOUR full length stories, we are just getting the summer started with sizzling suspense and sweet romance! From terrorist plots, to secret babies, to kidnappings and forced proximity, this anthology volume promises to keep the pages turning 📚

👉Find your copy and start reading today. 🔗 in bio.

#justice #longhotsummer #romanticsuspenseanthology #christiansuspense #TBR #ChristianBooks #christianpublisher #Anthology #Bookstagram #ChristianRomance #HaveYouReadThis #christianromanticsuspense #christianauthor #RomanceNovels #twodogspublishing #summerreads #ReadMore #avidreadersofchristianfiction #cleanread #summeranthology #ChristianFiction #kindleunlimited #BookLove #SummerStories #readmorebooks #Heartwarming
It feels like another "last" in the "Havig army." It feels like another "last" in the "Havig army." #7daughter followed in the footsteps of six of her siblings yesterday. Proud of you, @lornarose9 
#PhiThetaKappa
#AnotherLast
The fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo has narrated many of The fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo has narrated many of my books, including TheNutcracker's Suite--a mystery set among the mob activity during the Prohibition era.
You can listen FREE on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@christadelsorbo/videos
Check out the other books she has on there... also free!

OR

You can also get The Nutcracker's Suite and several of my other titles on popular retailers like Audible, Spotify, Everand, and more!
#Audiobooks
#FreeAudiobooks
#ChristianMystery
#HistoricalMystery
#FairyTaleRetelling
3d
Austria, 1939. Before the "death trains," Hitler's Austria, 1939. Before the "death trains," Hitler's regime deported ten thousand children to Holland, Sweden, and even England on what was known as the Kindertransport. Two desperate mothers send their only childrent to safety on this Kindertransport, but when those children arrive, nothing is as it seems or should be.  A war-time mystery twist on "Hansel and Gretel" set just before the invasion of Poland.
Available as an audiobook FREE on Youtube, narrated by @ChristaDelSorbo
https://www.youtube.com/@christadelsorbo/videos

#FreeAudiobooks
#ChristFic
#HistoricalChristianMystery
#KindleUnlimited
Reposted from @catheswanson Read Rainbow Valley in Reposted from @catheswanson Read Rainbow Valley in The Mosaic Collection's 2025 Spring Anthology, BirdSong ~ Kindle, Print, and also available in Kindle Unlimited.

https://amzn.to/431QnXc
  • Home
  • Bookshelf
  • New & Coming
  • Blog
  • News!
  • Disclosure & Policies
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2025 · Chautona Havig · All Rights Reserved · Coding by Gretchen Louise

Don't go before you grab your FREE short story collection!