Written for : Beyond Dreaming

Ahh... So we finally get to read Charlie's book. I wasn't sure what to make of it, really, it wasn't at all what I expected - though I did like it. The first 1/3 of the book was really slow for me; I usually finish books within a day or two but it took me about two weeks to drill through that first third - needless to say I was disappointed. After passing that, though, All Summer Long soared for me... It was funny and oh-so sweet (as expected from Susan Mallery). I must say, I admired the way Charlie's rape didn't affect her in any way other than...umm, the bedroom; usually I have to wade through a very emotional book about rediscovery and healing, which I don't mind - but they tend to be heavy while All Summer Long remained light-hearted.
Clay was down-to-Earth and uber caring, which I liked. What I didn't like, however, was his annoying tendency to think of his deceased wife. I mean; I understand loss but jeez, I'm reading contemporary romance - I don't want to see him mentally paused on his wife (which was how he seemed at first). Because of said tendency, early on I felt no chemistry between the characters, which added to my boring 1/3. After he mellowed his thoughts and Charlie freed up, though, yowza, it was hot... I totally loved their relationship, they were so cute together with all the tenderness they showed towards each other; I expected a relationship of the more rough-and-tumble variety. Speaking of relationships, I loved the 'little' surprise that came in the graceful package of Dominique. Watching Dominique find herself and try to forge a relationship with Charlie was ultra-entertaining and, in a funny way, touching.
Susan Mallery did a great job with All Summer Long (excluding that first third) and I loved the end (including a certain character's 'visit'). I can't wait to read A Fool's Gold Christmas, after which I can totally focus on anticipating the story of Justice and Patience (which I'm totally feeling, btw, because I loved Justice instantly) that was hinted at.