Customer Reviews

A Summer to Remember

5 star:		(28)
4 star:		(19)
3 star:		(9)
2 star:		(4)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I'd rather not review this book but, instead, "share my thoughts" as we are invited to do by amazon. Mary Balogh is so talented that she rarely fails to please and those who may have been disappointed by this story perhaps prefer stories which are not quite so introspective as this one.

One aspect of this novel I enjoyed was that it brought a happy outcome for some of those wonderful characters in One Night for Love. It also allowed us to watch a deeply hurt and misunderstood man and woman reach tentatively, hesitatingly for mutual fulfilment and and happiness. Kit Butler, Lt Col Viscount Ravensberg had, from all outward appearances, a brilliant military career working under particularly dangerous circumstances. Balogh alludes to this sparingly but with great effect as she explores the impact that war and command can have on a man. However, he is damaged and confused and hurt as a result of his experiences and this has helped to bring about a collapse of relations with each member of his family.

Miss Lauren Edgeworth was the jilted bride from One Night for Love who, we now find out, has turned inward on herself because of loss of her parents at a young and vulnerable age. She has some rather deep psychological scarring which needs to be expunged if ever she is to find true happiness and serenity of spirit. Her calm and cool manner hides a deeply passionate and loving woman who, sadly, all her life has felt she must exist to please others and never herself. Balogh writes with great insight into Lauren's character.

Balogh has written a novel examining the psychological make-up of two very interesting and sympathetic characters. They think and behave in a wholly credible and believeable fashion. She has truly made them come alive for me and, by placing them in a setting of a large extended family, she shows how sadly isolated both of them are, despite the surroundings of the comings and goings of everyday family activity.

I am truly interested to see if the author can make me like Lady Freyja Bedwyn who makes her somewhat alarming debut here. I look forward to reading about her and her family in the Bedwyn saga. I also hope that Sydnam Butler, Kit's younger brother will find a happy outcome in a future story. Much of the torment and turmoil experienced by Kit is directly attributable to his relationship with Sydnam. Sydnam deserves "fleshing out" and I hope to read more of him.

All in all, another marvel from Mary Balogh and not to be missed if you like heart-wrenching, immaculately plotted fiction with a rounded, mature H/H who mature to loving completion in a most heart-warming way.

reading for every aspiring author (and some professional ones too). Maybe then we readers would be spared some of those atrocious, embarrasing books that are being published nowadays (and become bestsellers too!! Who buys this dreck???) Anyway, the point of that rant is that Mary Balogh has produced a gem of a book, a true keeper in every sense of the words.

After his older brother's untimely death the notorious Kit Butler inherited the title of Viscount Ravensberg (sp). His family, aghast at Kit's exploits in London order him home immediately to take his rightful place as the heir to a powerful earldom and also to fulfill his duty by marrying a bride chosen by his father and producing heirs. Kit, already estranged from his family, balks at his family's command and decides that he will find his own bride and marry on his own terms not his father's. He will even go a step further and instead of choosing someone completely unsuitable as his family would expect he decides he will choose the perfect lady.
Lauren Edgeworth is the perfect lady. She has devoted her whole life to perfecting the art of being a lady. She thrives on prediction and takes comfort in routine. In short, Lauren Edgeworth is a dead bore (or so Kit thinks) therefore she is the ideal woman for his plans. Lauren surprises him by agreeing to be his fiancee in name only until he can find a bride not of his father's choosing. In exchange, Lauren wants Kit to give her a summer she will never forget. He readily agrees. At the end of Lauren's perfect summer she will break off the betrothal and move to Bath to begin the life a respectable spinster. However, for Kit this was easier said than done because he was not prepared for the other side of Lauren. He finds himself captivated by the woman hiding behind the icy facade, apparently afraid to come out. Since Kit is not one to resist a challenge he is determined to bring that woman out. In the process he finds himself caring far too much for his "pretend" fiancee.
Lauren, on the other hand is determined to leave at the end of the summer with her heart intact. After her first wedding was scandalously aborted (see One Night for Love) Lauren is convinced she will never be able to love again. However, she is not made of stone and very soon she finds herself hopessly drawn to Kit. His devil-may-care attitude fascinates her and the pain she glimpses behind his laughing eyes and happy-go-lucky attitude brings her dangerously close to falling madly in love.

Balogh has outdone herself with Kit and Lauren. Never before have I read a book with characters that were so perfect for one another. Kit is an absolute joy to read, his charm and endearing ways had me sighing over and over. Also, the dialogue sparkles and the developing relationship between Kit and Lauren is belivable and incredibly executed. I have said before that Balogh is the closest one can get to a modern day Jane Austen and this book just reinforces my opinion. In short, this is an incredible book and I cannot recommend it enough. :0)

While I don't exactly share the first reviewer's sentiments about "A Summer to Remember" honesty compels to agree that while this was a rather agreeable and enjoyable read, there was really nothing incredibly earth-shatteringly new or fresh about this latest Mary Balogh Regency romance. Everything depends on one's personal taste: compared to "No Man's Mistress (too improbable a plot -- supposedly 'honourable' heroes don't force their presence on the households of respectable young ladies, no matter the circumstances) and "More Than a Mistress" (the last few chapters of that book made me quite ill), "A Summer to Remember," was a welcome relief. It seemed to herald (for me anyway) the return of the Mary Balogh who knew how to make her characters engaging and sympathetic.

For all of us who wondered whatever would happen to Miss Lynn Edgeworth after "One Night of Love" this novel answers those all questions in spades. And while it is not exactly essential to have read that book before embarking on this one, being familiar with some of the finer workings of that plot does help. It's been almost a year since Lauren was left at the altar because of the return from the dead of her intended's previous wife. Outwardly, the very cool, calm and collected Lauren gives the impression that she's recovered from the humiliation of losing Neville (her intended and her greatest love) but inwardly, the pain of the rejection has never left. Now, she's in London for some time away from painful memories. Unfortunately, her family and friends seems to have plans to introduce her to as many eligible bachelors as possible. And for a young lady who has decided never to marry, such a situation is well neigh intolerable!

In the meantime, Kit Butler, the Earl of Ravensberg, receives news that his father is planning to marry him off the his dead brother's fiance. Kit is both angry and bitter about his family's highhandedness; and desperate to thwart his father's plans, he concocts a scheme to find his own bride. However, which respectable young lady would marry an infamous rake such as he? And when he notices Lauren and learns of her reputation, he decides that Lauren just might be the bride for him. Lauren however has other plans -- she has no wish to marry. And so she poses a counter scheme: she will pose as his fiance, and Kit will give her a summer of fun (her previous life has suddenly struck her as being rather unadventurous and dull), but at the end of the summer, she will disengage herself from him and they will each go their separate ways. Kit is intrigued and nothing loath, agrees to Lauren's scheme. But as the summer progresses, Kit comes to see that Lauren just might be the ideal wife for him, and he discovers that he is in danger of losing his heart to her. But not only is Lauren (he thinks) still in love with Neville, she has no intention of marrying at all. Can a rake who used to pride himself on his ability to seduce any woman persuade a respectable and decorous young lady to give up her plans and settle on him?

The plot is a much used and rather basic one. What makes this novel incredibly engrossing and enjoyable was the manner in which the authour brings Lauren to life -- the pain she suffers when her hopes were dashed, her dissatisfaction with her life, the joy she takes from the simple pleasures that Kit introduces her to (like swimming) and the manner in which she handles a few sticky situations. This is a tale of a young woman coming into her own, and what a joy it was to read those bits of the novel. Kit's and Lauren's romance however had me in two minds -- Balogh does show how well they deal with each other, but while their romance was quite sensuous, it was also at times a little ho-hum. As for Kit, well he's the usual self-centered hero, with some redeeming characters. I, personally enjoyed the scene in which his younger brother finally told him off. I probably would have broken his nose as well, but if you only have one arm (as Kit's brother has) breaking other people's noses could be a problem.

On the whole, I'd say that this novel was quite an enjoyable read and rates somewhere in the 3 1/2 stars realm. It even hints that there may be more novels featuring a few characters from this novel. I do hope so, for I'm dying to see how things turn out between Gwen and Ralf Bedwyn! A good read.

... do yourself a favor, and make it this one. This is my second-favorite romance of any genre, of all time. It is the most purely romantic novel I've read.

Everything is perfect. The two leads are complex, interesting, vulnerable and flawed, and the tentative way they both slowly flower within their relationship made me weep, in more than one place within the story. I can't remember when I was more moved by a romance novel, and as a voracious reader of every star author of the Regency genre that is saying something. Few books even approach this one both in satisfaction of a great read by a skilled author or in the way the story itself resonated within me.

The heroine Lauren was especially well-written. Her pride and gentility broke my heart. She is exactly what a regency-era heroine should be, but crafted in the timeless mold of a Jane Austin character. She isn't wild, or spunky, or goofy/silly/helpless, she isn't motivated by lust, or financial need, nor does she use the speech patterns and vocabulary of a modern American woman. She is British and she is refined, elegant, and every bit a lady. I wanted her to be happy. She deserved happiness.

Likewise, Kit, her partner, is also exceptionally attractive as a human being and a man, not a cliche of the genre. He is a realistic man, not a real macho man, vulnerable, occasionally thoughtless, and refreshingly kind.

The novel itself does conform to the standards of the romance genre, but not so much so that the inevitable conflict and resolution detract from the character's growing love for one another. They fall, and stay, in love. Isn't that, and not some sub-plot/murder mystery/comedy of errors/love-hate-love-hate abuse & forgive S&M knot the essence of a romance?

Some may fault the story for not being lust-driven but I cheered the novelty and the skill of the author in crafting desire based almost entirely upon affection and mutual respect. I enjoy an erotic romance more than most, but I loved this gentler story even more.

Get this book. You can't go wrong.

As a long time reader of historical romances, I'm embarassed to admit that this is my first book by Mary Balogh! And it won't be my last. An absolutely lovely, warm and poignant story and a highly recommended read!

Stubborn and reckless Christopher "Kit" Butler, Viscount Ravensberg, refuses to succumb to his father's plans for him to marry the fiancee of his deceased older brother now that he is the heir. Determined to do things his own way, he plans to return to the family seat with a bride of his own choosing - one that is beyond reproach. But where to find such a creature? And more importantly, how to woo and win her (especially with his wild reputation)? When his friends suggest a candidate, and a wager is made, Kit is off and in hot pursuit of his quarry.

Being left behind by those she loves has been Lauren Edgeworth's greatest sadness and continuing fear. At the age of three, her mother left her and just the year before, she was left at the altar. She's always been proper, dutiful and perfectly behaved so that no one will ever want to leave her again. Her self-esteem has taken a devastating hit leaving her feeling unattractive and unwanted. So when rogue Kit Butler begins to energetically and enthusiastically pursue her, she knows that something is up and calls him on it.

A contrite Kit confesses his plans to Lauren, apologizes for using her, and moves to leave when she does the unexpected. She agrees to become engaged to Kit in exchange for a summer of adventure. Once the summer is over, Lauren will then break the engagement and retire to a quiet life alone in Bath leaving Kit the option to marry where he chooses. But the reality of what they've agreed to is much more complicated than either had planned and both wonder what they've gotten themselves into. Feelings start to develop and not just between Kit and Lauren. Kit's family comes to love Lauren and she them, making the charade even more painful. And while Lauren is resolved to help Kit reconcile with his family before she leaves, Kit is equally determined to give Lauren the most wonderful summer of her life in the hope that he can convince her to become his wife for real! Just a wonderful book!

This book introduces the Bedwyn siblings (Freyja Bedwyn was the woman Kit was supposed to marry) who will star in 6 upcoming books. They are arrogant, proud and sound like fascinating subjects to follow and I look forward to their stories.

Kit Butler, Viscount Ravensberg, a rake, wagers with friends that he will marry Lauren Edgeworth. Lauren, a lady, was deserted at the altar, a year before. She considers herself unmarriageable. And, as luck and Ms. Balogh will have it, the two meet.

As Kit and Lauren become acquainted, they will bargain to meet each other's needs. Kit needs a pretend-betrothed to satisfy his family. And, Lauren needs to have a summer to remember, before she sets up her spinster life in Bath.

Two more likeable leads I've never read about, in a romance. And, I fully enjoyed their story. All the secondary characters are fascinating, too. And, I would like to see some of their stories continue.

My only quibble with this book, was in the way all of Lauren's and Kit's mysteries, problems, are wrapped up so quickly. A Summer to Remember, really should have been longer. Otherwise, this book was almost perfect.

Most historical romance bolsters on suspense/mystery to enthrall but not Regency mistress Mary Balogh who is hailed by Romantics Times as a "matchless storyteller" - her characters and full-fledged romance provide the stimulus.

In A Summer to Remember, Ms. Balogh fashions her most beguiling creatures to date with the frigid Lauren Edgeworth as the perfect foil to the debonair adventurer Viscount Ravensburg Kit Butler. The demise of his elder brother Jerome has lifted his banishment from Alvesley to assume his position as heir to Earl of Redford. Striking a wager with his friends, Kit intends to make the prosaic beauty as his wife. It's just too bad that Lauren isn't a simpering neophyte and Kit confesses honestly his agenda, only to be surprised that Lauren wants a brief romantic summer interlude with him. She will break the engagement and be free from the marriage proposals that her relatives thrust her.

They fall in love as in any romance novel but the courtship that segues from Vauxhall to swimming and tree-climbing is unfettered bliss and lush romance. Ms. Balogh weaves intimacy between the couple with tender passion and redemption. Lauren curbs her sunny side with her parents' departure; Kit is unable to forgive himself for the afflictions he caused on his younger brother Syd in his militant days.

It is at once heart-wrenching with denouements and poignant with family reconciliations. With maturity and grace, Ms. Balogh resolves the conflicts and adds depth to the ensemble of sub-characters including Syd and Lady Muir. She employs the healing power to soothe personal anguish in the characters with emotional delicacy. A Summer to Remember is unadulterated romance of such rare beauty and elegance that it will be remembered as Ms. Balogh's most glorious outing.

Kit Butler, Viscount Ravensberg, returned to London a year ago, and has subsequently gained notoriety, not only as a rake, but also as someone who frequently engages in shocking behaviors. Kit takes all the negative attention in stride though. In fact, he appears to relish the fact he's the main source of talk in the drawing rooms of London. Now his estranged father wants him to return home, in order to prepare for the day he'll inherit the earldom. However, Kit's father has also picked a bride for him. Determined to make his own choices, Kit plans to find a woman imminently suitable and respectable, to take home with him as his bride. His family won't be able to object to a marriage to such a woman. Without meeting her, he decides on the perfect choice to meet his requirements, Miss Lauren Edgeworth.

A year ago, Lauren was abandoned at the alter, and since then she has decided not to marry. Lauren has always been utterly dignified and respectable, but after being jilted, she has managed to bury herself beneath her dignity to the point of icy aloofness. Hence, Lauren strikes a bargain with Kit. She will return home with him posing as his betrothed, if he'll agree to provide her with one adventurous, passionate, and unforgettable summer. A summer to remember. At the end of the summer, she will break off their engagement, and move to Bath to live her life alone and independent.

Slowly, Kit releases Lauren from the shell of her existence, then realizes he's done the unthinkable. He has fallen in love with her. But will he be able to convince her that life with someone you love is preferable to her intended plan?

Let me just start by saying this is one of the best books I've ever read, a true work of art. When the story began, I thought it would be a light, fun, and pretty much run of the mill romance. Instead, what I discovered was a rare and perfect gem. Kit and Lauren were expertly crafted by Ms. Balogh, to the point they literally breathed with a life of their own from the pages. They were each very complex, multi-layered, but flawed individuals, who while helping each other heal, fell in love. There was never a doubt in my mind that they were in love. After all they did for each other, how could they not be? The secondary characters were also well crafted, and served to add extra depth to the story.

This was the first novel I've read by this author, and I know I'll certainly be reading more of her work. I'm anxious to start the "Slightly" series, which portrays the Bedwyn family introduced here. This book is a keeper, and a must read for anyone who loves the genre of romance, because it just doesn't get any better than this!

The thing I love about Mary Balogh, and what distinguishes most of her work, is how she throws her characters together, keeps them together, and develops them together. And she does it spectacularly in "A Summer to Remember." There's none of the "barely meet, have a stupid misunderstanding, spend the book pining for each other but not speaking, miraculously fix their only problem without showing that they'll be able to work through future problems, live happily ever after" crap. In contrast, these characters meet, don't get along so well, but agree to help each other out for selfish reasons. In the process, they learn more about each other, we learn more about them, and they learn to deal well with each other and with the secondary characters. By the end of the book, we *believe* they will live happily ever after because we know they know how to behave with each other. They adjust their behavior based on their knowledge of the other person.

The primary characters are really decent people. They make decisions which a reasonable person would make. I can sympathize with their problems because they seem real, not sensational. This book weaves in many secondary characters as well. I truly enjoyed it; it's on my keeper shelf with plans for re-reading.

I loved this book!!! Besides really liking the hero and heroine and their story, I found this book unique regarding the secondary characters - they were not just filler background providing best friend moral support or villians to battle and conquer. There were a number of important personal issues between the primary and secondary characters (family members and long-time friends)- long-standing disagreements and misunderstandings that were explored and resolved in a satisfactory (but not sappy) manner. The secondary characters were for the most part well-developed and I cared about them. The process of resolving the problems from the past involved the main characters - the hero and heroine each helping to bring the injured parties of the other one's issues together, bringing themselves closer to each other in the process. They each made the other's life better because of their caring actions, whether or not they'd end up together (which of course they do! Can you imagine a romance novel not ending "happily ever after"?). Anyway - I loved it and highly recommend it!