Barefoot Season: a brighter future with the magic of friendship

Barefoot Season is the first book in the Blackberry Island series by Susan Mallery. Michelle Sanderson appears to be the hardened army vet, a strong independent woman. However, deep inside, she is still deeply wounded by the past she left behind on Blackberry Island. After the death of her mother, Michelle returns to the island to claim her inheritance, the Blackberry Island Inn, and recover from a battlefield wound. The only winkle in her plan is the person who occupies the owner’s suite. The last person she wants to see. Carly Williams and Michelle used to be inseparable until a betrayal destroyed their friendship. As a single mother, Carly has had to weather rumors, lies and secrets. With her young daughter, she is finally in a place with a future. Until, that is, Carly is implicated in the financial disaster facing the inn. To save the inn and their futures, Michelle and Carly must find a way to work together. Will the summer bring a bit of luck and the magic of friendship? 

Barefoot Season is the first book by Susan Mallery I have read. Unfortunately, I was underwhelmed by the characters and the story. It was supposed to be a light, beach read about friendship and forgiveness. I was sympathetic toward Michelle for her battle wounds and the after effects of her military experiences. However, she was a hard character to like especially after reading what she did prior to leaving the island for the army. Carly is a little easier to like as she is trying to make it on her own with her daughter. But she was a little too naive to be dubbed like she was. Even after all the years and their experiences, these women, as well as others, revert back to high school pettiness. It was irritating. Overall, the story is very slow moving and I was bored. Unfortunately, I didn’t care much for this book and most likely will not finish the series. However, if you are a fan of Ms. Mallery’s work, you may enjoy Barefoot Season. 

Barefoot Season is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook.