The Summer Set - by Aimee Agresti (Paperback)

About the Book

Book Synopsis

The best drama happens offstage in this undeniably charming novel about an idyllic summer theater where hot stars, has-beens and hopefuls chase roles--and each other.

Recommended by Glamour * Bustle * Popsugar * Booklist * Playbill

Charlie Savoy was once Hollywood's hottest A-lister. Now, ten years later, she's pushing forty, exiled from the film world and back at the summer Shakespeare theater in the Berkshires that launched her career--and where her old flame, Nick, is the artistic director.

It's not exactly her first choice. But as parts are cast and rehearsals begin, Charlie is surprised to find herself getting her groove back, bonding with celebrity actors, forging unexpected new friendships and even reigniting her spark with Nick, who still seems to bring out the best in her despite their complicated history.

Until Charlie's old rival, Hollywood's current It Girl, is brought on set, threatening to undo everything she's built. As the drama amps up both on the stage and behind the curtains, Charlie must put on the show of a lifetime to fight for the second chance she deserves in career and in love.

"A page-turner set in the intoxicating theater world, The Summer Set considers the price of fame, the power of second chances and the enduring nature of love. A truly enjoyable read!" --Elyssa Friedland, author of The Floating Feldmans

Review Quotes

"The perfect staycation escape... and exactly the uplifting summer read we all need."
--Entertainment Weekly

"This immensely satisfying read immerses the reader in the camp-for-grownups feel of a season of summer stock in the mountains, with all of its close company and electric energy, and the deus ex machina ending will earn a standing ovation."
--Booklist (STARRED REVIEW)

"A page-turner set in the intoxicating theater world, The Summer Set considers the price of fame, the power of second chances and the enduring nature of love. Agresti has drawn characters that feel unique and original, but still familiar enough that we can relate to their struggles. A truly enjoyable read!"
--Elyssa Friedland, author of The Floating Feldmans

"A feel-good read that'll leave you pumped up for beach season."
--Us Weekly

"With the drama and humor of a Shakespearean play, Agresti's novel is filled with backstage antics, on-stage tantrums, behind the scenes scandals, and off-stage romance, all in the crazy, fast-paced world of summer stock theater. Sparks fly and opposites attract as The Summer Set explores the blurred line between playing a part and being true to yourself."
--Amy Poeppel, author of Small Admissions

"Spectacular. Agresti captivates with her razor-sharp writing, keen eye for detail and emotional depth of characters."
--Lisa Barr, author of The Unbreakables

"A fun charmer about the lives of actors both on and off the stage. You'll never look at theater the same way again."
--PopSugar, Best Books of Spring

Praise for Campaign Widows

"D.C.'s juiciest politics might not be in the White House. Aimee Agresti's irresistible novel Campaign Widows proves it."
--Cosmopolitan

"Aimee Agresti's whip-smart novel is a political page-turner."
--Us Weekly

"Campaign Widows makes politics fun again.... The novel's sharp pace, witty turn of phrase, and nonintrusive social commentary draw the reader into the glittery world of Washington during campaign season."
--Entertainment Weekly

"A fun, escapist read about an election gone wild and the women (and men!) behind the scenes.... This story of love and friendship will keep you turning the pages long into the night."
--PopSugar, "Best New Books You Should Read This Spring"

"Hits the right balance of Washington insiderness and women's fiction.... [A] smart beach read."
--Booklist, starred review

"This one has it all: politics, power and privilege wrapped in one delightfully juicy novel."
--Washington Life Magazine

"Campaign Widows is big drama in an ultra-fun package, made all the more thrilling by Agresti's insider knowledge."
--BookPage

"As Aimee Agresti shows us through a compelling cast of characters, the most delicious drama happens right in the District."
--Karin Tanabe, author of The List and The Diplomat's Daughter

"Fun and fast-paced, populated with a lovable cast of characters--and peppered with undeniably dishy details--Campaign Widows will keep you turning the pages."
--Ann Mah, author of Mastering the Art of French Eating and The Lost Vintage

"Twenty-first century politics might be an unmitigated disaster, but I adored my time with this collection of vibrant, compelling characters. My vote is an enthusiastic 'yes' for Campaign Widows."
--Shari Goldhagen, author of In Some Other World, Maybe