Summer of Secrets has been published today so I urge you to go out and buy your copy now. It really is a brilliant and compelling read that had me hooked all the way through. I finished it last night with tears streaming down my face and it’s all I can think about since.
Dare I say that as much as the cover of this novel is romantic, I do think it is a tad misleading. Summer of Secrets is a powerful read that explores the themes of emotional dependence, control and the darker sides of love. But in a subtle way that reinforces the power of the story. Yet it is hopeful too, also revealing the strength of friendship and love.
It is a brilliantly structured novel juxtaposing between the story of Maddy whose relationship with her sister is redefined when Victor enters their lives and is not all that he seems; and newly pregnant Chloe who is struggling under the pressure of her husband’s all-consuming and controlling love.
Maddy’s story is set just days before the outbreak of World War Two. I loved this as the onset of war is always looming in the backdrop, skillfully adding to the dramatic tension. And Maddy’s story is dramatic. Orphaned at a young age and struggling to deal with her father’s death, she eagerly awaits the return of her adored sister Georgiana who has been travelling around Europe. Yet when Georgiana brings with her a group of friends, including the handsome Victor, their lives change irrevocably.
Chloe is a photographer living in the present day. She is approached to photograph Maddy who is now in her 90s. When Chloe’s husband emotionally coerces her not to take the photography job, Chloe takes the job in secret. As Chloe’s situation resonates with Maddy, reminding her of the summer of 1939, a close friendship develops between the two women.
I was gripped reading Summer of Secrets; it is emotionally charged, heartbreaking and also beautiful. I simply loved it. I will definitely be reading more from its author, Nikola Scott.
I also think this would be an ideal read for Reese Witherspoon’s book club, as that is a community celebrating women’s stories. So if by any chance you see this blog post Reese, check out Summer of Secrets. You won’t be disappointed. 😉
Thank you Nikola Scott for such a tense and beautiful read. Also thank you to NetGalley and Headline Publishing for sending me an advance copy in return for an honest review.
Summer of Secrets is available now, so go and buy your copy – if you’re a fan of historic fiction, I’m sure you’ll love this book.
Publication date of Summer of Secrets: 6 September 2018.
My rating:
