ON SALE JUNE 2, 2026
List Price: $30.00
Brand-new from New York Times bestselling author Mary Kay Andrews! The Queen of the Summer Read is back with her first novel in two years!
Maeve and Therese Dunigan are sisters–but the two have been estranged for years. They could not be more opposite: Maeve, a rule-follower and Therese, a rebel. But when their mother’s death brings the family back together, the two find that they have inherited a painting–one that could be worth millions and could save each of them from their respective wolves at the door. The only issue is, the painting might be a fake and the only way they can solve the problem is to find the original. This means a road trip–to Ireland, to their family roots, and to a mysterious crime that occurred years ago. With tensions simmering, the two hit the road and find themselves on twisty lanes, in colorful villages, at local pubs, and with handsome men whose gift of the gab is surpassed only by their charm. Can Maeve and Therese find the real painting, remove a family curse, solve a cold case, and actually survive without killing each other? Join Mary Kay Andrews on a road trip that will entertain you for miles.
- The novel begins with Therese and Maeve having a rocky relationship. How does their relationship develop and change over the course of the novel?
- Therese and Maeve are sent to Ireland by their mother, in the hope that they would figure out more about their family history and get closer as sisters. Do you think it worked? If so, do you think it’s because of the trip or another reason?
- Maeve and Therese’s family history drives their story in the novel. What role do you think past family history plays in your life today?
- Therese is originally characterized quite negatively. How does her character change throughout the novel? Why?
- The text often inserts old letters from Kathleen to her brother, Tommy. What role do these old letters play in the story? How does the author use these letters to weave past and present together?
- Kathleen’s story of moving to the United States is shown and described in great detail. How does the novel show the immigrant experience? How does being a descendant of an immigrant change someone’s perspective on the world and their own family history?
- To Maeve, being in Ireland is like wearing a pair of shoes that is already broken in. Is returning to your ancestor’s homeland necessary to connect with them, or are there other ways to engage with their history and story?
- What did you think about the ending? Did you find it satisfying? Were there any parts of it you found to be upsetting?
- Throughout the course of the novel, both sisters have romantic encounters. What did you think about the development of the two romantic relationships? Which one did you root for more?
- Esme is shown in a negative light until near the end of the novel. What are your thoughts on Esme and her unlikely friendship toward the end of the book?
“A cozy romp that touches lightly on multiple genres to spin an intriguing tale: murder mystery, IRA art heist, coming-to-America immigrant story, justice for elder financial abuse, dual rom-com narratives, and an earnest story of two sisters learning to appreciate each other again. A delightful tale with vivid characters.”
—Kirkus
“Road Trip is full of fun, a little bit of romance, a good deal of sibling rivalry, as well as a heartfelt look at how dynamics change in a family over time. I loved the setting in Ireland, and the cast of characters was great; there are several quirky characters that bring humor to the story, too. There are even a few flashbacks involving their great grandmother in the form of correspondence from when she immigrated to America…This is a great summer/beach read from the Queen of Summer Reads, Mary Kay Andrews.”
—Bargain Sleuth Reviews
“What a fun book… This is just a really solid story. You’ve got some mystery, some long-standing family issues, and a mix of personalities that don’t always get along, which makes the whole thing feel more real… And fair warning, this book will absolutely have you dreaming about flying over to Ireland.”
— NerdyNerdyBookBook
“I love the back and forth in time and location from a small town in Ireland to Georgia. The story has mystery, romance, secrets, it was an enjoyable journey.”
—Ginger’s Library
“I love these characters. They show strength, emotions, and growth as the story goes along. I have read nearly all the books by Mary Kay Andrews and I can honestly say this is by far her best work to date.”
—Belladonna’s Books