"...a beautiful tribute to what it feels like to be an Asian-American woman, pre-internet and today."
- Lynn Chen (writer/director, "I Will Make You Mine")

"A Long Dark Summer" is a pseudo-memoir told in a compilation of poems set between 1993 and 2021. It chronicles the journey of a young woman letting go of the angst of adolescence and surrendering to the pull of adulthood all while confronting issues around race, identity, relationships, and an unforgiving entertainment industry. Part dreamscape, part punch in the stomach, "A Long Dark Summer" is a cautious love letter to the intoxication of how one wishes the world to be and the pain of embracing how it truly is.

REVIEWS:
"...a fascinating look inside the mind of a growing artist, within the boundaries of 97 pages. Helenna never ceases to amaze me in her artistry, and I'm excited for what's to come." - Tim Guzman (director/producer)

"A Long Dark Summer is a shadowed and unflinching exploration into the vulnerability of relationships, making sense of oneself, and pursuing the boldest of dreams. Through her own reflections, Helenna Santos guides the reader on a compassionate journey toward self-assurance." - Shannon Corbeil (writer/actor)

"A Long Dark Summer threads memories and years of searching for one's identity into a tender emotional tapestry that spans time and place. A beautiful read." - Zadi Diaz (director/producer)