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The Summer of Broken Rules

Author: K. L. Walther

Genre: Young Adult

What would you do if your family’s summer vacation suddenly turned into a giant strategy game? In The Summer of Broken Rules by K.L. Walther, a normal trip to Martha’s Vineyard becomes a week full of surprises, sneaking around, and intense competition. This book made me think about how traditions can bring people together, even when life feels messy.

The story follows Meredith Fox, who is returning to the island after losing her sister the year before. Her whole family is gathering for a big wedding, but the real event everyone is excited about is Assassin. In this family-wide game, each person has a target and has to “eliminate” them with a water gun. As the game goes on, Meredith starts teaming up with new friends and trying to outsmart the other players. The mix of strategy, teamwork, and surprises helps her feel connected again after a tough year.

My favorite part of the book is the game itself. The sneak attacks, alliances, and unexpected twists kept things exciting. I also liked how Meredith learns to enjoy herself again and be part of the family fun. The story shows that healing can happen through laughter, competition, and moments when people support each other without making a big deal about it.

I would recommend The Summer of Broken Rules to readers who like realistic fiction, family stories, and books with adventure, not the fantasy kind, but the kind that happens when everyone gets way too into a game. If you like stories with teamwork, humor, and personal growth, this is a great choice.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 stars; fun, thoughtful, and full of summer excitement!

Have you read The Summer of Broken Rules? Would you survive the Assassin game? Comment down below!