Summer has come early thanks to women’s fiction author Monica Garner. I recently spoke with her about her latest release, Summer on Cape May.
Tell me about your latest release.
While planning a wedding, over the course of one summer, three best friends in a small beach town on the southern coast of New Jersey embark upon a journey of self-discovery that makes them question everything they thought they knew about themselves and each other. While Lu unravels deep family secrets about a father and siblings she didn’t even know existed, Kenya discovers that closing one chapter of life and opening a new one is perfectly normal, and all the while Natalia questions everything she thought she knew about a husband who has not only been unfaithful but has committed the ultimate betrayal. Summer On Cape May is a story of friendship, love and healing—and secrets. Secrets that they are each harboring about one another and the revelations that threaten to change their friendship.
Why did you decide to write it?
I wanted to write a story about sisterhood, with diverse characters that women from all walks of life could relate to and enjoy reading about. I wanted women to understand that sisterhood is not necessarily about DNA, it’s about people who make you feel safe and included, and who love you without conditions.
What was your most memorable experience writing this book?
The setting, which actually came about while reading an article about a black bed-and-breakfast owner, Monique Greenwood (former editor and chief of Essence magazine) who visited Cape May and fell in love with it; decided to make it her next B&B location. I was intrigued by that article and also fell in love with Cape May; thought it would make a great setting for my next novel.
Which character in the book would you like to have as a best friend and why?
I would have to say Kenya. Kenya’s a badass attorney who doesn’t back down from a fight. And she demonstrated in the book that even when she’s at odds with her friends, she still shows up for them. That’s what true friendship is about—although we might be at odds, I still love you and will come to your rescue when necessary.
What’s something readers would be surprised to learn about you?
Readers might be surprised to learn that my second love to writing is cooking. I love to cook and have always had a desire to go to culinary school, but I was always too busy working, writing and raising my children. Now that I have more time, it’s not off the table.
What do you like to do when you’re not writing?
I cook. I often host events at my home, like brunches, luncheons, or wine tastings. I also love spending time with my family and hanging out with my grandchildren.
What’s the most difficult part of being an author?
Discipline. Making time to write when so many other things are pulling at my attention. That’s the most difficult part for me, staying focused.
Who are some of your favorite authors, and what are some of their books you love?
Of course Terry McMillan and Eric Jerome Dickey inspired me to write. But I love a wide range of authors like Kennedy Ryan, Daniel Black, Rachel Hanna. The best book I read last year was Kennedy Ryan’s Before I Let Go, and it made me go back and read all of her others. I plan to pick up Daniel Black’s book Isaac’s Song. And of course I love a good beach read like Rachel Hanna’s The Beach House.
What’s next for you?
Now that I’ve retired from federal service after 38 years, I plan to write full-time. I’m currently writing my second title with Kensington that’s slated for 2026. I have some other ideas that I’m planning to pitch in the near future. I think readers will see more from me very soon.
Do you have anything you would like to add?
Nothing more than I’m excited about my writing future. I have a couple of events that I’ll be attending this year, NBCC [National Book Club Conference] and the Texas Book Festival in Austin. I hope to connect with some of my readers there.
Use the Black Fiction Addiction affiliate link to purchase your copy of Summer on Cape May by Monica Garner.
To learn more about Monica Garner, author of women’s fiction, visit her website or connect with her on social media.
Monica’s website: Monica-Writes.com
Facebook: Monica Garner
Instagram: @_Monica-writes
Threads: @_Monica-writes