Swimming Lessons

By Mary Alice Monroe

Toy Sooner has dealt with enough rough waves in her troubled past.

It's only been through the enduring love of a close-knit group of women on this tiny island that she's finally started to find her footing. But as new challenges in her career arise for this young single mother, the choices and demons of her past will catch up to her.

Soon Toy will learn that, like the steadfast sea turtles she cares for, a mother must find the strength within herself to make it safely to shore.

• Language: English
• Publisher: HarperCollins UK
• Release date: Dec 1, 2011
• ISBN: 9781408975978

Mary Alice Monroe

Mary Alice Monroe is the New York Times bestselling author of over 27 books. Almost 8 million copies of her books have been published worldwide, and she’s earned numerous accolades and awards, including induction into the South Carolina Academy of Authors’ Hall of Fame.

Reviews for Swimming Lessons

[cmdh5 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

The second in Mary Alice Monroe's Beach House series, we return to the hypnotic rhythm of low-country. Toy Sooner, now a college graduate working at the local aquarium, has turned her life around, is a wonderful mother to her daughter Little-Lovie, and carries on the traditions of 'The Turtle Ladies' she learned for her beloved mentor. But life, as nature must change, and Toy must reconcile her past, including Little-Lovie's father Darrel, before she can move on and find happiness in herself, or with someone else. Another wonderful episode in this series!

[melannc-1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoy Mary Alice Monroe's books! This one is a continuation of the "Turtle Ladies". Yes, the turtles come to nest, but there is so much more. I got to find out what happened to Toy Sooner who is still living in Lovie's house. I also spent more time with Brett and Cara (Miss Lovie's daughter). Of course, Flo and Emmi make their entrance too. I enjoyed the character development and the resolution of Toy's history and her future. I will definitely read more about the Turtle Ladies!

[nyiper · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I remember the turtles in the first book so it was great to have another wonderful description of the work involved in caring for injured ones. A warm and wonderful group of characters whose relationships made a good story with challenging experiences for each of them.