What do you think?
Rate this book
Loving Summer #1
Loving Summer
**2022 Update! Currently Filming as a Film to be Released in Theaters and Online!**
Over 2 Million Copies Sold in the Series which has been translated into 25 languages including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, German, Italian, Danish, and more!
The YA to Contemporary Romance Series about Summer, the Donovans, and the magical summers they've spent at Summer's Aunt Sookie's beach house
Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt's beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans - her best friend Rachel and Rachel's brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie's beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel's friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did...and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer.
Sounds like any other summer teen beach series? Guess again, Loving Summer is about a young woman who begins her journey into discovering love through trial and error, heartbreak, and loyalty to discover her strength to love and spans teen years to adulthood.
Over 2 Million Copies Sold in the Series which has been translated into 25 languages including Japanese, Korean, Chinese, Spanish, German, Italian, Danish, and more!
The YA to Contemporary Romance Series about Summer, the Donovans, and the magical summers they've spent at Summer's Aunt Sookie's beach house
Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt's beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans - her best friend Rachel and Rachel's brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie's beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel's friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did...and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer.
Sounds like any other summer teen beach series? Guess again, Loving Summer is about a young woman who begins her journey into discovering love through trial and error, heartbreak, and loyalty to discover her strength to love and spans teen years to adulthood.
250 pages, Paperback
First published May 27, 2012
113 people are currently reading
5378 people want to read
About the author
Kailin Gow
347 books2,502 followers2025 News!
https://ventsmagazine.com/2025/04/10/...
Kailin Gow is an USA Today Bestselling author, publisher, screenwriter, director, producer, and speaker with hundreds of books published. She is also the owner/founder and organizer of mega-book signing events like Rockin' Hollywood, Naughty Mafia in Las Vegas, which has featured the very top authors of Romance and drawn thousands of readers, including being in a documentary film now out on Amazon Prime.
Over 14 Million copies of her books have been downloaded around the world and translated into 25 languages. 2 of her book series, FADE Series and Red Genesis Series, has been optioned by the Academy Award-winning team behind Netflix #1 most Liked and Top 10 Netflix Original Film, Wish Dragon, also the team behind the special effects magic of Star Wars and Marvel films.
She owns a traditional publishing company with an API (Asian Pacific Islander) Diversity initiative that has partnerships with production companies across the globe with distribution through Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Disney and more! Kailin Gow is a go to media guest on Women in Film and Television and is a voting member of the Academy Awards.
Her Worldwide Brand, Kailin Gow's Go Girl has won awards for its tv series, books, cosmetics, fashions, beauty and health products, and soon-to-be home and travel products. As of 2021, Kailin Gow's Go Girl is excited to expand into its own line of hotels, starting with a 70+ room hotel in Texas. In 2022, her books will be adapted into entertainment venues called Sparklesoup World, offered in various locations throughout the U.S. and internationally.
She has been a host on world-class stages, an invited speaker for BEA and a regular radio/TV guest for major stations. She is an official voice of AAPI, She has a TV Reality show on her as an author and personality. She is also the host and publisher of a leading author industry guide, subscription newsletter, and podcast called Authors Voices. Five of her pen names are USA Today Bestselling authors and will be traditionally published in 2022. She is also a recurring speaker/instructor of writing series and serials for professional screenwriters and producers as of 2021.
She was called an "innovating author" and an "Author as Influencer" by Goodreads executives at Book Expo America 2014 in their speech.
Kailin Gow is one of Cindy Crawford's Beauties, who is beautiful on the inside as well as the outside, along with Gabrielle Union.
She was called "a successful author who knows how to balance being an author and life" by Huffington Post. USA Today recommends her steamy romances while PBS Kids have recommended her Teen Fantasy Series.
Amazon highlighted her author success story on the homepage of Amazon.com and in their book, Transformations and was invited by Amazon to be an author spokesperson for Amazon's launch of the Kindle fire in Santa Monica.
In the publishing industry, she has written and presented many articles and workshops for major publications as well as conventions. https://www.fastcompany.com/user/kail...
and is the host/founder of the podcast and newsletter Author Voices. Additionally, she owns a law firm specializing in consumer advocacy.
Kailin Gow holds a Masters degree in Management from USC and degrees in Social Ecology (Psychology, Criminology, Sociology, and Ecology/Climate), Drama, and Film making from UC Irvine where she once ran and DJ for a radio station that helped discovered OC bands like Sugar Ray and Gwen Stefani.
https://ventsmagazine.com/2025/04/10/...
Kailin Gow is an USA Today Bestselling author, publisher, screenwriter, director, producer, and speaker with hundreds of books published. She is also the owner/founder and organizer of mega-book signing events like Rockin' Hollywood, Naughty Mafia in Las Vegas, which has featured the very top authors of Romance and drawn thousands of readers, including being in a documentary film now out on Amazon Prime.
Over 14 Million copies of her books have been downloaded around the world and translated into 25 languages. 2 of her book series, FADE Series and Red Genesis Series, has been optioned by the Academy Award-winning team behind Netflix #1 most Liked and Top 10 Netflix Original Film, Wish Dragon, also the team behind the special effects magic of Star Wars and Marvel films.
She owns a traditional publishing company with an API (Asian Pacific Islander) Diversity initiative that has partnerships with production companies across the globe with distribution through Netflix, Amazon, Hulu, Disney and more! Kailin Gow is a go to media guest on Women in Film and Television and is a voting member of the Academy Awards.
Her Worldwide Brand, Kailin Gow's Go Girl has won awards for its tv series, books, cosmetics, fashions, beauty and health products, and soon-to-be home and travel products. As of 2021, Kailin Gow's Go Girl is excited to expand into its own line of hotels, starting with a 70+ room hotel in Texas. In 2022, her books will be adapted into entertainment venues called Sparklesoup World, offered in various locations throughout the U.S. and internationally.
She has been a host on world-class stages, an invited speaker for BEA and a regular radio/TV guest for major stations. She is an official voice of AAPI, She has a TV Reality show on her as an author and personality. She is also the host and publisher of a leading author industry guide, subscription newsletter, and podcast called Authors Voices. Five of her pen names are USA Today Bestselling authors and will be traditionally published in 2022. She is also a recurring speaker/instructor of writing series and serials for professional screenwriters and producers as of 2021.
She was called an "innovating author" and an "Author as Influencer" by Goodreads executives at Book Expo America 2014 in their speech.
Kailin Gow is one of Cindy Crawford's Beauties, who is beautiful on the inside as well as the outside, along with Gabrielle Union.
She was called "a successful author who knows how to balance being an author and life" by Huffington Post. USA Today recommends her steamy romances while PBS Kids have recommended her Teen Fantasy Series.
Amazon highlighted her author success story on the homepage of Amazon.com and in their book, Transformations and was invited by Amazon to be an author spokesperson for Amazon's launch of the Kindle fire in Santa Monica.
In the publishing industry, she has written and presented many articles and workshops for major publications as well as conventions. https://www.fastcompany.com/user/kail...
and is the host/founder of the podcast and newsletter Author Voices. Additionally, she owns a law firm specializing in consumer advocacy.
Kailin Gow holds a Masters degree in Management from USC and degrees in Social Ecology (Psychology, Criminology, Sociology, and Ecology/Climate), Drama, and Film making from UC Irvine where she once ran and DJ for a radio station that helped discovered OC bands like Sugar Ray and Gwen Stefani.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
Want to read
October 17, 2012 Sorry,but can this lady come up with her own ideas instead of stealing others? As far as I know she "borrowed" Vampire Academy,The Iron Fey,Hunger Games,The Forest of Hands and Teeth,Bloodlines and now the Summer trilogy.
Want to read
June 6, 2012I recently read Kailin Gow's Saving You Saving Me, and was rewarded with the heads-up that it is basically a much tamer rip-off of Fifty Shades of Grey. I just finished reading Fifty Shades of Grey and yeah, everyone's right; total and complete rip-off. So then I started hunting around for clues as to who this Kailin Gow is, and I ended up reading the synopsis for her new book, Loving Summer.
"Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt’s beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie’s beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans – her best friend Rachel and Rachel’s brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie’s beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel’s friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie’s beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did…and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer."
Gosh, this sounds familiar....why does it seem like I've already read this....hmm....
"Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one terrible and wonderful summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along." - The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
Hmmmm....
"Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt’s beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie’s beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans – her best friend Rachel and Rachel’s brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie’s beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel’s friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie’s beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did…and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer."
Gosh, this sounds familiar....why does it seem like I've already read this....hmm....
"Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad. They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one terrible and wonderful summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along." - The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
Hmmmm....
July 15, 2013
now,everybody's heard of 2 guys chasing a girl,but all 3 of them desperately in love with her ?
yeh,me neither....and hence this book...(big mistake)
its basically starts out with young Miss Summers ,deciding to spend summer at her Aunt Sookie's beach pad, with her childhood friends Nat,Drew and Rachel ,all siblings.
Growing up with the Donovans , summer's always been in love with the oldest, brooding,handsome, Nat,WHO'S LIFE'S MISSION is remain obvious to her feeling's while stringing her along..since he doesn't feel ready for to be together,together,even after 17 years.
Drew, is the play boy blue eyed younger brother who decides to leave a life of complete Celibacy until summer decides she wants him too.
and finally , Aston, the superstar, seriously i don't know why was he even there ? he kinna visits in between to fall in love and take her to Disneyland (??!) before going off again too sets....
anyway, this book ,on e-reader lasted just 125 pages:125 pages of loveless love, indention and......
AWKWARDNESS... you got that right.
even though this book ended with a cliffy, trust me this is the LAST series,im going to buy one for.
recommended to NOBODY,not even for a light afternoon read, seriously.... its a definite no,no.
yeh,me neither....and hence this book...(big mistake)
its basically starts out with young Miss Summers ,deciding to spend summer at her Aunt Sookie's beach pad, with her childhood friends Nat,Drew and Rachel ,all siblings.
Growing up with the Donovans , summer's always been in love with the oldest, brooding,handsome, Nat,WHO'S LIFE'S MISSION is remain obvious to her feeling's while stringing her along..since he doesn't feel ready for to be together,together,even after 17 years.
Drew, is the play boy blue eyed younger brother who decides to leave a life of complete Celibacy until summer decides she wants him too.
and finally , Aston, the superstar, seriously i don't know why was he even there ? he kinna visits in between to fall in love and take her to Disneyland (??!) before going off again too sets....
anyway, this book ,on e-reader lasted just 125 pages:125 pages of loveless love, indention and......
AWKWARDNESS... you got that right.
even though this book ended with a cliffy, trust me this is the LAST series,im going to buy one for.
recommended to NOBODY,not even for a light afternoon read, seriously.... its a definite no,no.
July 28, 2012
Originally posted at: http://iliveforreading.blogspot.in/20...
Another perfect summer read!
I've been reading them by the dozen, all of them excellent, and Loving Summer is definitely one NOT to miss! I jumped at the chance to be apart of this blog tour. Why? Well, for starters, Kailin Gow's books have caught my attention for AGES and I've never been able to get my hands on one uptil now. Another reason: the cover. GOR. GE. OUS. Love it! And it totally made me curious as to who she'd end up with.
I found a lot of similarities to other "summery" books, one example being the Summer trilogy by Jenny Han. There's the whole love triangle thing...although it's a one girl with three guys instead of the two. Totally spices up the story!
I liked Summer. I didn't LOVE her, but she's likeable, and I enjoyed hearing her part of the story. From the slight switch in perspectives, while it was interesting to hear from Drew, the main story definitely did come from Summer (hence the title!). I just wish that Rachel had a bigger role though– she's one character I'd have DEFINITELY liked to know better.
And now, the part which will definitely perk up your interest: the love triangle/square... thing. Boy no. 1) Astor. Definitely like him. Charming, sweet and did I mention movie star? *swoon*. Boy no. 2) Drew. "Bad Boy", yet has a softer side. Don't they always? Love him though– he really does change during the book. and Boy no. 3) Nat. The boy Summer has always loved (sounds like Belly and Conrad, huh?), yet it's really complicated. This has to be the most complicated love triangle-square I've ever read about. Because just when you think Summer's going to fall for one or the other, it always changes! I can't wait to find out who the final one is though...I'm on Team Drew so far :D
Loving Summer is the summer full of friendship, love and heartbreak. I loved this story, and can't wait to find out more in the sequel, Perfect Summer, and of course, who Summer ends up with!
**Thank you so much to SupaGirl Books for making me apart of the tour and sending Loving Summer for review**
Another perfect summer read!
I've been reading them by the dozen, all of them excellent, and Loving Summer is definitely one NOT to miss! I jumped at the chance to be apart of this blog tour. Why? Well, for starters, Kailin Gow's books have caught my attention for AGES and I've never been able to get my hands on one uptil now. Another reason: the cover. GOR. GE. OUS. Love it! And it totally made me curious as to who she'd end up with.
I found a lot of similarities to other "summery" books, one example being the Summer trilogy by Jenny Han. There's the whole love triangle thing...although it's a one girl with three guys instead of the two. Totally spices up the story!
I liked Summer. I didn't LOVE her, but she's likeable, and I enjoyed hearing her part of the story. From the slight switch in perspectives, while it was interesting to hear from Drew, the main story definitely did come from Summer (hence the title!). I just wish that Rachel had a bigger role though– she's one character I'd have DEFINITELY liked to know better.
And now, the part which will definitely perk up your interest: the love triangle/square... thing. Boy no. 1) Astor. Definitely like him. Charming, sweet and did I mention movie star? *swoon*. Boy no. 2) Drew. "Bad Boy", yet has a softer side. Don't they always? Love him though– he really does change during the book. and Boy no. 3) Nat. The boy Summer has always loved (sounds like Belly and Conrad, huh?), yet it's really complicated. This has to be the most complicated love triangle-square I've ever read about. Because just when you think Summer's going to fall for one or the other, it always changes! I can't wait to find out who the final one is though...I'm on Team Drew so far :D
Loving Summer is the summer full of friendship, love and heartbreak. I loved this story, and can't wait to find out more in the sequel, Perfect Summer, and of course, who Summer ends up with!
**Thank you so much to SupaGirl Books for making me apart of the tour and sending Loving Summer for review**
September 26, 2016
Update 2016!
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE READERS OF LOVING SUMMER!
Over 1.5 million books sold or downloaded in the US alone. Loving Summer Series is being translated into Korean. Loving Summer Series has already been translated into Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese. More languages on the way!
Now there are 2 films planned and being produced by an award-winning women-friendly film production company. The first film, Loving Summer is currently in pre-production.
After 9 books (AND STILL GOING), Loving Summer Series has grown from a teen book (17+) to an Adult Contemporary because Summer and the Donovans have matured over the years. Having gone through high school, college, grad school, a career before working full-time as an author, getting married, being happily married, and having children (basically being able to fortunately have it all - career, marriage, children, and family life, and happiness); I am glad I am able to infuse some of my own life experience into this series as a Coming-Of-Age series.
If anyone who has read the entire series (not just the book's description of Loving Summer) to Summer's Landing thinks this is like any teen beach series out there, think again. I hope most people won't think teen beach series like these are typical of the teen experience. What happens to Summer is complex and hopefully doesn't happen to everyone. :D
Happy Reading!
xo
Kailin
A BIG THANK YOU TO ALL THE READERS OF LOVING SUMMER!
Over 1.5 million books sold or downloaded in the US alone. Loving Summer Series is being translated into Korean. Loving Summer Series has already been translated into Mandarin Chinese, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese. More languages on the way!
Now there are 2 films planned and being produced by an award-winning women-friendly film production company. The first film, Loving Summer is currently in pre-production.
After 9 books (AND STILL GOING), Loving Summer Series has grown from a teen book (17+) to an Adult Contemporary because Summer and the Donovans have matured over the years. Having gone through high school, college, grad school, a career before working full-time as an author, getting married, being happily married, and having children (basically being able to fortunately have it all - career, marriage, children, and family life, and happiness); I am glad I am able to infuse some of my own life experience into this series as a Coming-Of-Age series.
If anyone who has read the entire series (not just the book's description of Loving Summer) to Summer's Landing thinks this is like any teen beach series out there, think again. I hope most people won't think teen beach series like these are typical of the teen experience. What happens to Summer is complex and hopefully doesn't happen to everyone. :D
Happy Reading!
xo
Kailin
May 31, 2012
Loving Summer is the perfect beach read. I seriously had a perma-smile on while reading this book. Loving Summer is a cute, fun contemporary. I have read one other Kailin Gow book, Saving you Saving me and I enjoyed it so I expected to enjoy this book too. I just didn't realize how much I would love it.
Kailin has a tendency to make female characters that all the guys seem to love. And Summer was no different. She had three guys chasing after her, but it wasn't in an annoying- "this would never happen" way. I could totally picture why each of the guys fell for Summer. And they each complemented her and fit in their own ways. Drew is the jock that can have any girl, Nat is his older brother who Summer has had a crush on for forever, and Astor is the actor that noticed Summer at her aunt's acting studio.
They each seemed really genuine in their affections and the book is going to be a series so it is left open. I have no idea who she will end up with. But for me, there was a clear winner for Summer. I'm not going to tell you what happens in the book, but I will say that I was on team Drew from the very first page all the way to the last page. I liked the other two guys but they just didn't do anything for me. I'm really curious to see who other people like as far as the guys go. I don't even want to tell you too much about them because I want you to read the book for yourself and pick one that you think would be best for Summer.
I thought the writing in Loving Summer was really good. A few times in Saving you Saving me there were awkward sentences or clumsy grammar and it disrupted the story and flow of the book, but I didn't notice any of that here. I thought the writing was descriptive and pulled me right in to that beach house along with Summer, Nat, Drew and Rachel. Loving Summer is my favorite summer/beachy read of the year and I know I am going to love the rest of the series. I wish the second book was out right now, because I really want to see what happens next.
Kailin has a tendency to make female characters that all the guys seem to love. And Summer was no different. She had three guys chasing after her, but it wasn't in an annoying- "this would never happen" way. I could totally picture why each of the guys fell for Summer. And they each complemented her and fit in their own ways. Drew is the jock that can have any girl, Nat is his older brother who Summer has had a crush on for forever, and Astor is the actor that noticed Summer at her aunt's acting studio.
They each seemed really genuine in their affections and the book is going to be a series so it is left open. I have no idea who she will end up with. But for me, there was a clear winner for Summer. I'm not going to tell you what happens in the book, but I will say that I was on team Drew from the very first page all the way to the last page. I liked the other two guys but they just didn't do anything for me. I'm really curious to see who other people like as far as the guys go. I don't even want to tell you too much about them because I want you to read the book for yourself and pick one that you think would be best for Summer.
I thought the writing in Loving Summer was really good. A few times in Saving you Saving me there were awkward sentences or clumsy grammar and it disrupted the story and flow of the book, but I didn't notice any of that here. I thought the writing was descriptive and pulled me right in to that beach house along with Summer, Nat, Drew and Rachel. Loving Summer is my favorite summer/beachy read of the year and I know I am going to love the rest of the series. I wish the second book was out right now, because I really want to see what happens next.
May 31, 2012
More Reviews Posted on FireStarBooks
I received the book as apart of a blog tour. :)
Wow this novel! I don't focus on my genre on contemporary, but when I saw this blog tour, I jumped on it, fast! I don't know why but I think this book had potential. This book definitely made me want to read more contemporary books.
The characters in the book were not boring. I didn't hate them! YAY! I found normal contemporary female characters will always complain about why would a guy pick me because I am not worthy, ugly and stupid. Well, by complaining that you are ugly when you are clearly not is stupid. Summer was not like that. *Thumbs up*
This book also pushed my boundaries since I never found the love for love triangles or square or any of those kind of thing. This book had love-more-than-triangle. But surprisingly I didn't hate it! I think it was the style of writing or something. I really didn't! You clearly could felt the love from each character. The emotions didn't felt force.
This book also touches basis on obstacles. By having the parents divorced, totally reminded me of The Last Song (I just watched it last weekend). The book definitely shown how hard it was for the characters when parents divorce. So this is not just a cute ohhhh I am in love type of book. It shown how people have to step up and take responsibilities when things get tough, and not simply give up. (Thank you! This really motivates me!) The book also mentioned suicide. It hits on so many basis.
I love and hate how the book is short, because by being short, it was a cute, fun, summer read, but I wanted MORE!
Overall, this book was amazing!
PS: Haha, if you saw my Stacking the Shelves vlog last week, you saw me comment on the physical book itself. It squeaks! Well, when you rub the cover, it squeaks. :P It is some weird, almost sticky, rubbery material. This book definitely made an impression on me.
I received the book as apart of a blog tour. :)
Wow this novel! I don't focus on my genre on contemporary, but when I saw this blog tour, I jumped on it, fast! I don't know why but I think this book had potential. This book definitely made me want to read more contemporary books.
The characters in the book were not boring. I didn't hate them! YAY! I found normal contemporary female characters will always complain about why would a guy pick me because I am not worthy, ugly and stupid. Well, by complaining that you are ugly when you are clearly not is stupid. Summer was not like that. *Thumbs up*
This book also pushed my boundaries since I never found the love for love triangles or square or any of those kind of thing. This book had love-more-than-triangle. But surprisingly I didn't hate it! I think it was the style of writing or something. I really didn't! You clearly could felt the love from each character. The emotions didn't felt force.
This book also touches basis on obstacles. By having the parents divorced, totally reminded me of The Last Song (I just watched it last weekend). The book definitely shown how hard it was for the characters when parents divorce. So this is not just a cute ohhhh I am in love type of book. It shown how people have to step up and take responsibilities when things get tough, and not simply give up. (Thank you! This really motivates me!) The book also mentioned suicide. It hits on so many basis.
I love and hate how the book is short, because by being short, it was a cute, fun, summer read, but I wanted MORE!
Overall, this book was amazing!
PS: Haha, if you saw my Stacking the Shelves vlog last week, you saw me comment on the physical book itself. It squeaks! Well, when you rub the cover, it squeaks. :P It is some weird, almost sticky, rubbery material. This book definitely made an impression on me.
October 11, 2012
Taken from my blog Le' BookSquirrel
Kailin Gow has done it again...creating yet another great story...that when it ends your left wanting to beg her to hurry up and release the following book.How can she keep doing this to me..oh the torture!(Okay enough dramatics..breath in breath out..)
In Loving Summer your introduced to Summer,Rachel,Nat,Drew and Aunt Sookie(who I happened to have so much trouble with her name since everytime I read it..I read it in Vampire Bills...Sookeh voice.) I dont want to call this a love triangle as its not quite a triangle..but perhaps a love square?Without giving too much of the book away there are 3 boys who all fall in love with Summer.I will leave it at that.Throughout this book Kailin Gow again addresses some serious topics;Depression,self esteem,divorce,Suicide.I love that she addresses these topics..they need to be out there floating around.
So once again Kailin has written another wonderfully entertaining story.If your looking for an nice summer read..pick this up.You wont be disappointed.
Kailin Gow has done it again...creating yet another great story...that when it ends your left wanting to beg her to hurry up and release the following book.How can she keep doing this to me..oh the torture!(Okay enough dramatics..breath in breath out..)
In Loving Summer your introduced to Summer,Rachel,Nat,Drew and Aunt Sookie(who I happened to have so much trouble with her name since everytime I read it..I read it in Vampire Bills...Sookeh voice.) I dont want to call this a love triangle as its not quite a triangle..but perhaps a love square?Without giving too much of the book away there are 3 boys who all fall in love with Summer.I will leave it at that.Throughout this book Kailin Gow again addresses some serious topics;Depression,self esteem,divorce,Suicide.I love that she addresses these topics..they need to be out there floating around.
So once again Kailin has written another wonderfully entertaining story.If your looking for an nice summer read..pick this up.You wont be disappointed.
June 15, 2012
-Itching For Books Reviews
Loving Summer was short, sweet, and believable. This is the perfect setting for the hot season, and you'll literally feel every scene come to life on each page. Kailin Gow is an outstanding author capturing every essence of a young girl trying to figure out what she wants and how to deal with love.
What can I say? This book was indeed a loving summer. I've never read a story that included so many potentials chasing after one girl. I was tired for her, knowing she'd have to make such a huge decision in the end: which guy to choose, or if she should choose any at all? For some reason I'd probably stay by myself and choose none of them, especially when two of them were brothers. Kailin had us confused till the end, not leaving any hint at all as to who Summer's going to choose.
I like the fact that the story wasn't only about new found love or how to come to terms with your feelings, it also portrayed the pain of a broken family, health issues, and losing a loved one. I laughed with the characters, yelled at Summer to pick Drew, and cried in their moments of sorrow. One thing I did question is the fact that the main character kissed all three of the guys in their own unique and passionate way. It's like no kiss was better than the other. Summer had butterflies for each guy and it just complicated things even more, for her at least. I already made my pick from the start and I'm never going back on my decision.
Drew's this playboy who no one takes seriously. He's the guy your parents warn you about, and everyone thinks he's this carefree person who thinks of nothing else but himself, but once he saw Summer again and was back at the beach house you got to see the real side to him. And I loved who he was underneath the star football player all the girls went for. I loved how he made an effort to just be himself, and he had no problem with being honest with his feelings. Nat, was clearly the opposite. He took on so much that he kind of stopped enjoying himself was I can't believe that even though he loved Summer that much he disregarded her feelings all those years. Jerk. I kicked him out of the competition the moment I became aware of the situation.
Astor is this star that's not far from having the same effect on girls that Drew has, only he doesn't play around the way Drew used to. I like his personality but he seemed too perfect, and we all know perfect is boring. He didn't really leave an impact on me and I wasn't interested in his scenes.
We can't forget Rachel, though she was hardly in the story. Well, sort of. I liked how she was having fun with her new boyfriend but I hated how hard she was on her brother. In my opinion, I think she's mad at what the dad did and hates that her brother was somewhat doing the same thing.
Aunt Sookie is awesome! Her attitude towards life is one to admire. She keeps everybody happy and appreciative. Her beautiful home brings together these old friends and allows each individual to express themselves freely. Her acting school is built on the foundation of helping young and aspiring actors get the chance to come one step closer to their dreams. It's quite sad what happened to Aunt Sookie and her character is one I will surely miss in the follow-ups.
I can't believe I wrote so much already without addressing my impression of Summer. Do I like her, kind of. I find that she sets herself up for problem. Why would you just go around kissing guys like that when your feelings aren't sorted out. One minute she's heated for one guy, the next she's falling over for the other. Like seriously, chick get away from all of them and go somewhere to find yourself. I think she should stay single for a while. Though, like I've stated before, I'm leaning towards Drew.
Overall, Loving Summer was a fast pace and interesting book. I loved every moment of it and I can't wait for the next because the first just screams to be continued...
Read more: http://itchingforbooks.blogspot.com
Loving Summer was short, sweet, and believable. This is the perfect setting for the hot season, and you'll literally feel every scene come to life on each page. Kailin Gow is an outstanding author capturing every essence of a young girl trying to figure out what she wants and how to deal with love.
What can I say? This book was indeed a loving summer. I've never read a story that included so many potentials chasing after one girl. I was tired for her, knowing she'd have to make such a huge decision in the end: which guy to choose, or if she should choose any at all? For some reason I'd probably stay by myself and choose none of them, especially when two of them were brothers. Kailin had us confused till the end, not leaving any hint at all as to who Summer's going to choose.
I like the fact that the story wasn't only about new found love or how to come to terms with your feelings, it also portrayed the pain of a broken family, health issues, and losing a loved one. I laughed with the characters, yelled at Summer to pick Drew, and cried in their moments of sorrow. One thing I did question is the fact that the main character kissed all three of the guys in their own unique and passionate way. It's like no kiss was better than the other. Summer had butterflies for each guy and it just complicated things even more, for her at least. I already made my pick from the start and I'm never going back on my decision.
Drew's this playboy who no one takes seriously. He's the guy your parents warn you about, and everyone thinks he's this carefree person who thinks of nothing else but himself, but once he saw Summer again and was back at the beach house you got to see the real side to him. And I loved who he was underneath the star football player all the girls went for. I loved how he made an effort to just be himself, and he had no problem with being honest with his feelings. Nat, was clearly the opposite. He took on so much that he kind of stopped enjoying himself was I can't believe that even though he loved Summer that much he disregarded her feelings all those years. Jerk. I kicked him out of the competition the moment I became aware of the situation.
Astor is this star that's not far from having the same effect on girls that Drew has, only he doesn't play around the way Drew used to. I like his personality but he seemed too perfect, and we all know perfect is boring. He didn't really leave an impact on me and I wasn't interested in his scenes.
We can't forget Rachel, though she was hardly in the story. Well, sort of. I liked how she was having fun with her new boyfriend but I hated how hard she was on her brother. In my opinion, I think she's mad at what the dad did and hates that her brother was somewhat doing the same thing.
Aunt Sookie is awesome! Her attitude towards life is one to admire. She keeps everybody happy and appreciative. Her beautiful home brings together these old friends and allows each individual to express themselves freely. Her acting school is built on the foundation of helping young and aspiring actors get the chance to come one step closer to their dreams. It's quite sad what happened to Aunt Sookie and her character is one I will surely miss in the follow-ups.
I can't believe I wrote so much already without addressing my impression of Summer. Do I like her, kind of. I find that she sets herself up for problem. Why would you just go around kissing guys like that when your feelings aren't sorted out. One minute she's heated for one guy, the next she's falling over for the other. Like seriously, chick get away from all of them and go somewhere to find yourself. I think she should stay single for a while. Though, like I've stated before, I'm leaning towards Drew.
Overall, Loving Summer was a fast pace and interesting book. I loved every moment of it and I can't wait for the next because the first just screams to be continued...
Read more: http://itchingforbooks.blogspot.com
June 6, 2012
This is a really hard book for me to review, I actually finished reading it 2 days ago and I have been thinking about my review since then.
Is it a good book? Yes
Is it a series I want to continue reading? Yes
Did I love all the characters? Yes
As you can see there isn’t anything that I didn’t actually LIKE about the book, except the fact that I did actually get teary near the end, that part was so super sad!
I really like Summer, she is the proverbial black swan… weird and gangly when she was younger and then she grew up and is now basically perfect (ok that part kind of bugged me mainly because she seems to be everything I never was but always wanted to be) but Summer was just so nice to everyone that it was ok that she was too perfect.
During the book Summer is torn between 3 guys in her life… Nat, the one that she has ALWAYS had a crush on… Drew, the one who has ALWAYS had a crush on her... and Astor the new guy, movie star extraordinaire.
Now I think she should have just picked Drew right from the beginning, even though he was going through some major issues and even though everywhere he went the ‘Drew-Effect’ was turned on… I just liked him from the first moment I met him.
Nat was ok too, but he was way too serious and he did have a girlfriend, that right there (even if he does break up with his girlfriend) makes him a major write-off.
And then there was Astor, I did not like him! He was just TOO perfect! Like make me sick perfect! I kept waiting for him to either push the boundaries’ that Summer had set, or just to do something to screw up… And he never did! Sooo I just did not like him one bit.
We also got to meet Rachel; she is Summer’s best friend, and also Drew’s twin sister. I didn’t really like her, but I didn’t have a problem with her either… I think she is a little clingy and because of the family drama the Donovan’s have going on she is a little to open for attention.
I really do hope there is another book in the series soon, I think that all the kids are on the verge of something huge, not just in a romance way but in a life which will be interesting to see play out.
Overall it was a pretty good book, a totally different genre then I usually read because it had absolutely not paranormal or fantasy aspects. But I did enjoy reading it. Some parts felt a little too rushed but it wasn’t so fast it was distracting. Other parts felt kinda out of place and unneeded, but again not distracting. I really like the way Kailin writes though, and this book has made me want to check out some of her other books, especially her paranormal ones.
Is it a good book? Yes
Is it a series I want to continue reading? Yes
Did I love all the characters? Yes
As you can see there isn’t anything that I didn’t actually LIKE about the book, except the fact that I did actually get teary near the end, that part was so super sad!
I really like Summer, she is the proverbial black swan… weird and gangly when she was younger and then she grew up and is now basically perfect (ok that part kind of bugged me mainly because she seems to be everything I never was but always wanted to be) but Summer was just so nice to everyone that it was ok that she was too perfect.
During the book Summer is torn between 3 guys in her life… Nat, the one that she has ALWAYS had a crush on… Drew, the one who has ALWAYS had a crush on her... and Astor the new guy, movie star extraordinaire.
Now I think she should have just picked Drew right from the beginning, even though he was going through some major issues and even though everywhere he went the ‘Drew-Effect’ was turned on… I just liked him from the first moment I met him.
Nat was ok too, but he was way too serious and he did have a girlfriend, that right there (even if he does break up with his girlfriend) makes him a major write-off.
And then there was Astor, I did not like him! He was just TOO perfect! Like make me sick perfect! I kept waiting for him to either push the boundaries’ that Summer had set, or just to do something to screw up… And he never did! Sooo I just did not like him one bit.
We also got to meet Rachel; she is Summer’s best friend, and also Drew’s twin sister. I didn’t really like her, but I didn’t have a problem with her either… I think she is a little clingy and because of the family drama the Donovan’s have going on she is a little to open for attention.
I really do hope there is another book in the series soon, I think that all the kids are on the verge of something huge, not just in a romance way but in a life which will be interesting to see play out.
Overall it was a pretty good book, a totally different genre then I usually read because it had absolutely not paranormal or fantasy aspects. But I did enjoy reading it. Some parts felt a little too rushed but it wasn’t so fast it was distracting. Other parts felt kinda out of place and unneeded, but again not distracting. I really like the way Kailin writes though, and this book has made me want to check out some of her other books, especially her paranormal ones.
May 1, 2012
I'm excited to have an ARC copy of Loving Summer, which I received as part of a teacher's beta group from the publisher. I love Summer and her friendship with Rachel whose two older brothers fall for Summer. Loving Summer is more than a romance and a crush on one of the Donovan brothers, but it's about growing up and taking responsibility. Summer and the Donovans have not seen each other for three years, but because of a family crisis, they are thrown together at Summer's Aunt's beach house in Malibu. Every character from Aunt Sookie to Astor to the gorgeous brothers were well-developed. I felt for each one of them. The story made me tear up a few times. I love the romance, but there are bigger issues the author tackles in this book that is appropriate for older teens and young adults and felt realistic. Divorce, suicide, death and dying are some which was delicately handled as part of the story. It's not simply about a girl having a crush on a boy she grew up with, but about friendship, the impact of infidelity and divorce has on a family, and more.
May 28, 2012
When I got the email about this blog tour I was all but jumping on the computer to be a part of it. Kailin Gow is by far one of my favorite authors. So when I seen this was not only by her but also a contemporary I can't even tell you how excited I was to get started. With all my excitement and the build up of anticipation I started to become afraid that I would be let down. That was not the case, actually it is so far from the case I was crazy for even thinking it.
This story is predominately about Summer but once I sat back and looked at it, it is really so much more. Summer and the Donovans: Rachel, Drew and Nat haven't seen each other in 3 years. Even with the promise to keep in touch rather than the odd text between Rachel and Summer there wasn't much contact. A lot can change in 3 years and the teens find that as familiar as it is to be with each other nothing is ever really the same. Well some things never change, like how they feel for each other.
I really appreciated that Summer was not one of those girls that guys lusted over and had no idea what was going on or couldn't understand why a guy would look at her. She wasn't shallow but she knew that she was pretty and realized when she was getting attention from the guys. Even when the famous and gorgeous Astor shows interest she doesn't go into the entire "why me" monologue type thing. She still crushes on Nat but somewhere along the line becomes aware of Drews feelings as well. This is where it all becomes complicated. How do you choose between all of those boys. I know most of you are thinking love triangle... Well really it's more than 3 so it's not a triangle. Regardless, the way Kailin writes this makes it easy to read and not torturous. I actually find the way that it is written makes it hard for even the reader to decide who is right for Summer. There is so much raw emotion from each of the characters that sometimes I am not sure how Summer doesn't go crazy.
This novel also has much more than just boys and love going on. There are issues that so many people/family's/teens deal with all of the time. What seems like a book that is about a girl and her choices between the boys that are pinning for her is so very much more. It is the novel that shows what the pressures of a parents divorce can have on the kids and the one that has some views into what the pressure a parent puts on their child can do. There is also the way people deal with illness. There is so many problems/issues that hide in the background that burst forth and demand the attention. In the end everyone has to deal with what they have been dealt and still try to remain together.
This novel was original and had me addicted from the first chapter. The characters were vivid and so alive you feel that you know them. Actually I really felt connected to Summer and so much of what she did and her reactions. Kailin Gow has created yet another series that will draw you in and have you wishing that it didn't end. Between the fast paced story and the characters you wont want to put the book down from start to finish. I highly recommend this book to everyone, even if you aren't a big contemporary fan.
This story is predominately about Summer but once I sat back and looked at it, it is really so much more. Summer and the Donovans: Rachel, Drew and Nat haven't seen each other in 3 years. Even with the promise to keep in touch rather than the odd text between Rachel and Summer there wasn't much contact. A lot can change in 3 years and the teens find that as familiar as it is to be with each other nothing is ever really the same. Well some things never change, like how they feel for each other.
I really appreciated that Summer was not one of those girls that guys lusted over and had no idea what was going on or couldn't understand why a guy would look at her. She wasn't shallow but she knew that she was pretty and realized when she was getting attention from the guys. Even when the famous and gorgeous Astor shows interest she doesn't go into the entire "why me" monologue type thing. She still crushes on Nat but somewhere along the line becomes aware of Drews feelings as well. This is where it all becomes complicated. How do you choose between all of those boys. I know most of you are thinking love triangle... Well really it's more than 3 so it's not a triangle. Regardless, the way Kailin writes this makes it easy to read and not torturous. I actually find the way that it is written makes it hard for even the reader to decide who is right for Summer. There is so much raw emotion from each of the characters that sometimes I am not sure how Summer doesn't go crazy.
This novel also has much more than just boys and love going on. There are issues that so many people/family's/teens deal with all of the time. What seems like a book that is about a girl and her choices between the boys that are pinning for her is so very much more. It is the novel that shows what the pressures of a parents divorce can have on the kids and the one that has some views into what the pressure a parent puts on their child can do. There is also the way people deal with illness. There is so many problems/issues that hide in the background that burst forth and demand the attention. In the end everyone has to deal with what they have been dealt and still try to remain together.
This novel was original and had me addicted from the first chapter. The characters were vivid and so alive you feel that you know them. Actually I really felt connected to Summer and so much of what she did and her reactions. Kailin Gow has created yet another series that will draw you in and have you wishing that it didn't end. Between the fast paced story and the characters you wont want to put the book down from start to finish. I highly recommend this book to everyone, even if you aren't a big contemporary fan.
June 28, 2012
I just finished
Loving Summer
and I am completely speechless. It was a quick, summer read but there was much more depth in this book than you'd think there was.
The plot definitely wasn't as lovey dovey as I thought it would be. Sure, there's a huge love sqaure but as the second half of the book progresses that becomes a secondary aspect. I'm pretty sure the plot of this book is to have as much fun possible and remember the good moments in life. I'm not sure, but there were a lot of sad moments in this book that make you think about the wonderful times in your life.
Summer. She is such as awesome person. She didn't start off as the beautiful girl she is now. In fact, a lot of the main characters have physical and emotional insecurities about themselves. The characters were so real that what's happening in the book feels like it's happening to you. The only fictional part would be Astor.
Astor is the guy you can't help but like. Although, his celebrity status could influence your judgement. He's the boy-next-door type with a hint of mischief. He was such a great guy, but I felt that he was almost too perfect.
Nat and Drew. The two Donovan brothers with completely opposite personalities. Nat is the older of the two and he acts the part. He's much more serious about everything. Even hooking up with girls he takes more seriously than Drew. The only time that Nat loosens up a bit is when he's around Summer, but he keeps in mind that he's the oldest and needs to remember his duty to the family. I think it's his seriousness that makes him so sweet.
Drew. I feel for him the most. He's similar to Summer in every single way. Their childhoods weren't exactly the best. You could say they were the people always in the background. However, the three years that everyone spent apart have made Drew and Summer more confident. They have improved their appearance a lot and seem to enjoy who they are now. With Drew, he has all this pressure on him from his distant father and the people from school. Drew cannot stand up to his father because of his mother's
Drew and Summer have such a wonderful connection, I can't help but like them whenever their together. It's serious and comical at times. I don't know which boy I'm rooting for, but I do like all of them in their own special way.
The plot definitely wasn't as lovey dovey as I thought it would be. Sure, there's a huge love sqaure but as the second half of the book progresses that becomes a secondary aspect. I'm pretty sure the plot of this book is to have as much fun possible and remember the good moments in life. I'm not sure, but there were a lot of sad moments in this book that make you think about the wonderful times in your life.
Summer. She is such as awesome person. She didn't start off as the beautiful girl she is now. In fact, a lot of the main characters have physical and emotional insecurities about themselves. The characters were so real that what's happening in the book feels like it's happening to you. The only fictional part would be Astor.
Astor is the guy you can't help but like. Although, his celebrity status could influence your judgement. He's the boy-next-door type with a hint of mischief. He was such a great guy, but I felt that he was almost too perfect.
Nat and Drew. The two Donovan brothers with completely opposite personalities. Nat is the older of the two and he acts the part. He's much more serious about everything. Even hooking up with girls he takes more seriously than Drew. The only time that Nat loosens up a bit is when he's around Summer, but he keeps in mind that he's the oldest and needs to remember his duty to the family. I think it's his seriousness that makes him so sweet.
Drew. I feel for him the most. He's similar to Summer in every single way. Their childhoods weren't exactly the best. You could say they were the people always in the background. However, the three years that everyone spent apart have made Drew and Summer more confident. They have improved their appearance a lot and seem to enjoy who they are now. With Drew, he has all this pressure on him from his distant father and the people from school. Drew cannot stand up to his father because of his mother's
Drew and Summer have such a wonderful connection, I can't help but like them whenever their together. It's serious and comical at times. I don't know which boy I'm rooting for, but I do like all of them in their own special way.
November 24, 2019
After reading Crushed which was a prequel to the Loving Summer series and it had been years since I read the Loving Summer series, so I decided to re-read the series. Loving Summer starts three years after the Donovans moved away in the middle of the night and it has been three years since Summer has laid eyes on the Donovan family. Gone is the young girl who had a bit of baby fat and braces and the young thirteen-year-old Summer who has now blossomed into the gorgeous stunning sixteen-year-old Summer. Nate, Drew and Rachael has just moved back for the Summer and staying with Aunt Sookie. With their family demons, we have Nate who Summer is still head over heels for but has a girlfriend Christy and Drew who is a playboy and using sex to forget his emotions and Rachael is now a goth/emo with her black and purple streaked hair. Summer has also captured the attention of a newcomer Hollywood actor Astor. Has Drew missed his chance with Summer as he still is pining for her but of course right throughout the book he is a jerk. During the book though to we have some strong emotional scenes from Donovan's mother ending in hospital after trying to kill herself and then Aunt Sookie has an illness revealed. I have to admit the angst of this book was high between Summer and Nate as it was a lot of chemistry but not enough action and was a lot of back and forth between the characters. I wanted to shake Nate and was like make up your mind about your feelings with Summer. Don't muck her around as she's a big girl and can take it and make up her own decisions. If you are wanting to read a new adult filled with angst, then check out the Loving Summer by Kailin Gow.
June 15, 2012
I had to jump right in and start reading this book even though I was in the process of reading another book. My book will just have to understand that when it comes to a Kailin Gow book others just have to wait.
First of all I am liking Kailin's venture into the YA romance genre. I came to know Kailin's writing through the Frost Series and the Desire series (both I love!!!). Her writing just sucks me in no matter what the genre is. Maybe I'm a little biased because I feel that you can't go wrong with a Kailin Gow book and I will tell you why. She is an author who writes characters that the reader can connect with and care about. Her writing allows the story to unfold at just the right pace. She allows her reader to discover and feel throughout her stories. I just love to read Kailin Gow's books.
Anyway, on to this offering, Loving Summer. What an appropriate title because I am loving this book. This had a love quadrilateral. Summer had three love interests and each of them were easy to love. Summer is such a loving person that makes the people around her want to be better. She is like the sun and the boys just orbit around her. I have to admit that towards the end I was getting frustrated with trying to figure out who I thought she should be with. I definitely have my opinion and I hope the next book goes my way. Summer's Aunt Sookie's story is heartbreaking. Had me in tears. My father is diabetic so I made a connection to that story line.
I don't want to give any of the story away. It is a quick read not quite 300 pages. It is a perfect read for the summer since the setting is a beach house in California. It has that summer feel. I recommend this book and any other Kailin Gow book for that matter. I am making my other books wait another day or two while I read the next installment from the Desire series, Passion. Like I said a Kailin Gow book moves to the top and all the rest have to wait.
If you couldn't tell from all the gushing, I do recommend reading Loving Summer. Pick it up you'll be glad you did.
First of all I am liking Kailin's venture into the YA romance genre. I came to know Kailin's writing through the Frost Series and the Desire series (both I love!!!). Her writing just sucks me in no matter what the genre is. Maybe I'm a little biased because I feel that you can't go wrong with a Kailin Gow book and I will tell you why. She is an author who writes characters that the reader can connect with and care about. Her writing allows the story to unfold at just the right pace. She allows her reader to discover and feel throughout her stories. I just love to read Kailin Gow's books.
Anyway, on to this offering, Loving Summer. What an appropriate title because I am loving this book. This had a love quadrilateral. Summer had three love interests and each of them were easy to love. Summer is such a loving person that makes the people around her want to be better. She is like the sun and the boys just orbit around her. I have to admit that towards the end I was getting frustrated with trying to figure out who I thought she should be with. I definitely have my opinion and I hope the next book goes my way. Summer's Aunt Sookie's story is heartbreaking. Had me in tears. My father is diabetic so I made a connection to that story line.
I don't want to give any of the story away. It is a quick read not quite 300 pages. It is a perfect read for the summer since the setting is a beach house in California. It has that summer feel. I recommend this book and any other Kailin Gow book for that matter. I am making my other books wait another day or two while I read the next installment from the Desire series, Passion. Like I said a Kailin Gow book moves to the top and all the rest have to wait.
If you couldn't tell from all the gushing, I do recommend reading Loving Summer. Pick it up you'll be glad you did.
July 11, 2012
- Review taken from my YA book blog Little Paper Rose
(2.8)
The synopsis of 'Loving Summer' made me think of 'The Boys Next Door' by Jennifer Echols and the 'Summer' series by Jenny Han - my love for YA fiction started there and as I'm writing this I'm noticing a pattern.. love triangles that involves brothers (I'm ignoring the voice in my head saying that's weird.)
I do like me a good love triangle, as long as it's well-done and believable. 'Loving Summer' featured a love square and I have yet to read a novel where I can actually make the connection as to how three guys can fall for this one girl.
It wasn't realistic having these gorgeous boys claim to love Summer, at the same time, without it being clear or coming across what it was that was so spectacular about her.
The relationship Summer struck up was really out of the blue as were the love confessions suddenly hailing from left and right, people pouring their hearts out.
Wherever Summer turned there was a boy. And this girl could not make up her mind. One boy she'd loved all her life, one she's dating, and one she has momentarily thoughts of going further with - it just made little sense.
There were many melodramatic situations and ones so cheesy I just found myself smiling.
I can't really place 'Loving Summer' - it was a super quick read for me; having only read for a little while I was shocked when realizing I was already halfway through. Everything flew by really fast and I didn't have enough time to grow feelings for anything or connecting with the emotions presented in the book.
'Loving Summer' also contained serious family issues but each of them were passed by rather than explored in a way to really attach the reader in the matter, it ended up feeling scattered and messy to me.
It amazes me every time how much impact an ending has. Without having gotten resolution to any problem 'Loving Summer' just ended, leaving in the midst of a giant tangle, literally as if several pages were missing. Or several chapters. And then comes an epilogue. In this case it felt like an easy way out. Now all I can feel is that this novel was unfinished.
The ending, unfortunately, took away a lot for me and I won't be picking up the following installment. I wished I'd liked 'Loving Summer', it had potential - it was really okay at its core (absolutely not a bad book) but ended up not working for me.
(2.8)
The synopsis of 'Loving Summer' made me think of 'The Boys Next Door' by Jennifer Echols and the 'Summer' series by Jenny Han - my love for YA fiction started there and as I'm writing this I'm noticing a pattern.. love triangles that involves brothers (I'm ignoring the voice in my head saying that's weird.)
I do like me a good love triangle, as long as it's well-done and believable. 'Loving Summer' featured a love square and I have yet to read a novel where I can actually make the connection as to how three guys can fall for this one girl.
It wasn't realistic having these gorgeous boys claim to love Summer, at the same time, without it being clear or coming across what it was that was so spectacular about her.
The relationship Summer struck up was really out of the blue as were the love confessions suddenly hailing from left and right, people pouring their hearts out.
Wherever Summer turned there was a boy. And this girl could not make up her mind. One boy she'd loved all her life, one she's dating, and one she has momentarily thoughts of going further with - it just made little sense.
There were many melodramatic situations and ones so cheesy I just found myself smiling.
I can't really place 'Loving Summer' - it was a super quick read for me; having only read for a little while I was shocked when realizing I was already halfway through. Everything flew by really fast and I didn't have enough time to grow feelings for anything or connecting with the emotions presented in the book.
'Loving Summer' also contained serious family issues but each of them were passed by rather than explored in a way to really attach the reader in the matter, it ended up feeling scattered and messy to me.
It amazes me every time how much impact an ending has. Without having gotten resolution to any problem 'Loving Summer' just ended, leaving in the midst of a giant tangle, literally as if several pages were missing. Or several chapters. And then comes an epilogue. In this case it felt like an easy way out. Now all I can feel is that this novel was unfinished.
The ending, unfortunately, took away a lot for me and I won't be picking up the following installment. I wished I'd liked 'Loving Summer', it had potential - it was really okay at its core (absolutely not a bad book) but ended up not working for me.
June 7, 2012
3.75-4 Stars
Don't hate me, but I really enjoy stories where guys compete for the love of a girl. Normally these stories only involve two guys competing, but this one had three. Yes, THREE. Is it weird to want this girl's problem? Seriously. Three drop dead gorgeous guys wanting lil ole me is a ridiculous fantasy, but hey, a girl can dream. lol.
However, this story about Summer and her three potential mates did give me whiplash. Let me introduce them. First there's Nathaniel or Nat. Summer has had a crush on him since they were kids, but Nat seems oblivious, though everyone else around them knows the truth. However, he can no longer ignore the fact that other guys are starting to notice Summer. He starts to see her in a different light. Second, there's Nat's brother, Drew. Drew is a player, plain and simple. Girls just flock to him wherever he goes. His secret is that he's been pining for Summer though never decided to act upon it since he knows how she feels about his brother, Nat. Last, and certainly not least, is Astor. He's a celebrity and has gotten to know Summer while attending her Aunt's acting school. He's sweet and is completely open with his feelings. Each of these three boys are interested in Summer. Each of them is unique in their own right. Summer, of course, can't choose.
Throughout the book, she goes back and forth, back and forth with each guy she likes most. Why he's better than the other and vise versa. I couldn't keep up. I knew what she was feeling considering I, too, couldn't choose. As soon as I start to favor one over the other, the other did something incredible and made me re-think. Grrrr! I don't know who I'm rooting for. With that said, I have no other choice but to read the sequel when it comes out so I can continue to live vicariously through Summer. =D
Don't hate me, but I really enjoy stories where guys compete for the love of a girl. Normally these stories only involve two guys competing, but this one had three. Yes, THREE. Is it weird to want this girl's problem? Seriously. Three drop dead gorgeous guys wanting lil ole me is a ridiculous fantasy, but hey, a girl can dream. lol.
However, this story about Summer and her three potential mates did give me whiplash. Let me introduce them. First there's Nathaniel or Nat. Summer has had a crush on him since they were kids, but Nat seems oblivious, though everyone else around them knows the truth. However, he can no longer ignore the fact that other guys are starting to notice Summer. He starts to see her in a different light. Second, there's Nat's brother, Drew. Drew is a player, plain and simple. Girls just flock to him wherever he goes. His secret is that he's been pining for Summer though never decided to act upon it since he knows how she feels about his brother, Nat. Last, and certainly not least, is Astor. He's a celebrity and has gotten to know Summer while attending her Aunt's acting school. He's sweet and is completely open with his feelings. Each of these three boys are interested in Summer. Each of them is unique in their own right. Summer, of course, can't choose.
Throughout the book, she goes back and forth, back and forth with each guy she likes most. Why he's better than the other and vise versa. I couldn't keep up. I knew what she was feeling considering I, too, couldn't choose. As soon as I start to favor one over the other, the other did something incredible and made me re-think. Grrrr! I don't know who I'm rooting for. With that said, I have no other choice but to read the sequel when it comes out so I can continue to live vicariously through Summer. =D
June 14, 2012
I really loved this book. It is the perfect summer read. Nat, Drew, and Rachel Donovan are spending the summer with their childhood friend, Summer Jones, who they haven't seen in three years, and a lot has changed in those three years...they have all grown up. Summer is no longer the 13-year-old with braces, Drew is the star football player and is totally hot, and Nathaniel is pretty hot himself. As they reunite at Summer's Aunt Sookie's Malibu beach house, they not only rekindle their childhood friendship, but their relationships take a turn in a new direction. Summer now not only has the attention of the Donovan boys, but also of Astor Fairway, the handsome television star, and suddenly her life is more complicated than she ever dreamed.
This is a great contemporary romance. I really liked Summer. She is really sweet and has everyone's best interest at heart. She doesn't want to hurt anyone, which makes trying to decide which guy she wants that much harder, especially when she really loves them all. Even though the characters are all young, they are very responsible, and when Aunt Sookie becomes ill, they all pitch in to do whatever they can to help. Even in the midst of tragedy, they find their friendships strengthening. This is a fun and enjoyable YA romance, but the characters also face issues like divorce, depression, suicide, and the death of a loved one. As for the three hotties, Drew, Astor, and Nat, I am team Drew all the way. He is absolutely yummy. I am looking forward to the second book in the Loving Summer Series to see where Kailin Gow takes the story from here. This is the first book I have read by Kailin Gow, and I am really looking forward to checking out more of her books. If you love contemporary romance, then this is a really enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it.
This is a great contemporary romance. I really liked Summer. She is really sweet and has everyone's best interest at heart. She doesn't want to hurt anyone, which makes trying to decide which guy she wants that much harder, especially when she really loves them all. Even though the characters are all young, they are very responsible, and when Aunt Sookie becomes ill, they all pitch in to do whatever they can to help. Even in the midst of tragedy, they find their friendships strengthening. This is a fun and enjoyable YA romance, but the characters also face issues like divorce, depression, suicide, and the death of a loved one. As for the three hotties, Drew, Astor, and Nat, I am team Drew all the way. He is absolutely yummy. I am looking forward to the second book in the Loving Summer Series to see where Kailin Gow takes the story from here. This is the first book I have read by Kailin Gow, and I am really looking forward to checking out more of her books. If you love contemporary romance, then this is a really enjoyable read and I would definitely recommend it.
March 13, 2017
This is the second series that I've read by Kalin and I've been blown away by her writing both times, her stories are fantastic and I'm definitely going to be checking out all of her other books and series.
Having never really been a fan of contemporary romance I've been very surprised with the few that I've read this year and Loving Summer is no exception.
Summer has invited the Donovan's: Rachel, her twin brother Drew and their older brother Nat whom Summer has had a crush on ever since she was a little to her Aunt Sookie's beach house, what used to be a yearly thing has tapered off and this will be the first time they've seen each other in years.
Nat has a girlfriend and Drew is now a walking one night stand and Summer starts to feel attracted to Drew while also harboring feelings for Nat, and then she starts dating tv star Astor and develops feelings for him too, what's a girl to do with three gorgeous guys whom may or may not all have feelings for her.
I personally would choose Drew, he's so sweet and while his twin Rachel has warned him off Summer so as not to ruin their friendship I think they'd make a great couple.
I loved all the characters in this book, I laughed, I cried and I'm extremely, impatiently hanging out for the next book.
A great summer read or if you want a light contemporary romance to put a smile on your face, definitely pick this one up.
I give this 5/5.
Having never really been a fan of contemporary romance I've been very surprised with the few that I've read this year and Loving Summer is no exception.
Summer has invited the Donovan's: Rachel, her twin brother Drew and their older brother Nat whom Summer has had a crush on ever since she was a little to her Aunt Sookie's beach house, what used to be a yearly thing has tapered off and this will be the first time they've seen each other in years.
Nat has a girlfriend and Drew is now a walking one night stand and Summer starts to feel attracted to Drew while also harboring feelings for Nat, and then she starts dating tv star Astor and develops feelings for him too, what's a girl to do with three gorgeous guys whom may or may not all have feelings for her.
I personally would choose Drew, he's so sweet and while his twin Rachel has warned him off Summer so as not to ruin their friendship I think they'd make a great couple.
I loved all the characters in this book, I laughed, I cried and I'm extremely, impatiently hanging out for the next book.
A great summer read or if you want a light contemporary romance to put a smile on your face, definitely pick this one up.
I give this 5/5.
June 2, 2012
Originally posted on my blog: http://book-spark.blogspot.com/2012/0...
"He heads off, leaving me with Drew. I look at him. 'The Drew Effect? Seriously?'
'I get it at most places,' he says, starting to grin, but then stopping himself. 'Honestly, it can get pretty annoying.'
'Oh, poor Drew,' I say. Like pretty girls giving him their number is really a problem."
Loving Summer was absolutely the perfect way to start the summer! It was a very short, light read, perfect for the beach. Although it isn't all rainbows and unicorns, it mostly focuses on the time Summer spends with three boys and their romances.
Plot: Loving Summer was the first novel I have read by Kailin Gow and now, I can see why readers love her work so much. Her work is mainly romance, but she incorporates so much character-building and well-written narration, you can't help but love whatever she writes. Summer hasn't seen her best friend Rachel and her two brothers, Drew and Nat in over three years. Summer has always had a crush on Nat but he has never seemed to notice her...until now. Although my first thought was that this was going to be yet another boring, sappy romance novel, it turned out to be so much more!
Characters: Gow really takes her time developing each of her characters' personalities, which is what makes this book so much fun to read:
Summer: The protagonist of the novel. She has changed drastically from the girl with braces and glasses to an incredibly beautiful girl, but is still sweet as ever. Has had a crush on Nat since forever. The thing I love most about Summer is that she knows who she is. She knows that she's pretty and athletic and that boys notice her now. She is aware that all three boys have a thing for her instead of being annoyingly oblivious.
Drew Donovan: At first, he is shown to be an uncaring jerk, who is unbelievably hot but sleeps with many girls then forgets about them. Slowly, however, you realize he is devoted (guess who to!) and considerate. Think Damon from Vampire Diaries, except he changes after meeting Elena. And just like I love Damon, I am Team Drew all the way! :D
Nathaniel "Nat" Donovan: The first thing I thought of was that the name sounds a LOT like Matt Donovan (again, Vampire Diaries). But if you really wanted a comparison (from VD), take Stefan while his feelings were turned off by Klaus and Elena still cared about him (I sure hope you've watched this last season!). That's kind of how Nat is throughout the book. He's always playing with Summer's feelings - uncaring and out of the picture. Then after a while, he shows up, alternately telling her he cares for her and then informing they can't ever be together.
Astor Fairway: A TV star of popular teen shows and movies. He doesn't have friends outside of Summer and the actors he works with. He asks Summer out at a party in the beginning and they start dating and stay that way throughout the book. Hot, sweet, smart and rich - he's the perfect boyfriend...if only he could stop going away to movie shoots.
Rachel Donovan: Summer's best friend. Recently turned Goth, she is pretty and sweet, but not too big in the story - except when it's something about her boyfriend Ryan. I wish she were shown to be the best friend that she is, maybe with Summer confiding in her about some things.
Aunt Sookie: She owns the beach house and the Acting Academy. This is the character I most wish I'd seen more of. She sounds like a fabulous aunt and her stories about her 20s would be a great addition to the story. Oh well..
Romanciness:The romanciness is so CUTE!! Instead of wanting to gag, I was pulled along through the love triangle or love pentagon or whatever it was, and I stayed up late because I wanted to know who Summer ends up with so bad!!!
POV: Most of the novel is told through Summer's point of view, but there are a few amazing chapters told through Drew's point of view. I love the bit of guy's perspective in the whole thing, although I feel like it's a huge giveaway to who Summer might possibly be with in the end (this is not a spoiler, I don't know either!)
Ending: I just wish all of them were shown to be great choices in the end, so it would make it harder for the reader to pick a "team" for the second book. As it is, only one stands out as the best choice. And I'm not the only one who thinks so! If you have read the book, be sure to go vote on which team you're on at theedgebooks.com!
Cover/Title: The cover fit the theme of this book just right, with a girl and guy holding hands in front of a setting sun. Their backs are turned so that gives it sort of a mysterious aura as to who it could be. The title is cool too - it makes sense with Summer meaning both the season and the protagonist. If you're going to read this book, I encourage you to get a physical copy. The cover's made out a weird rubbery substance, so when you let your fingers slide over it, the book squeaks! I just thought that was the coolest thing and I found myself rubbing it while reading :D
"He heads off, leaving me with Drew. I look at him. 'The Drew Effect? Seriously?'
'I get it at most places,' he says, starting to grin, but then stopping himself. 'Honestly, it can get pretty annoying.'
'Oh, poor Drew,' I say. Like pretty girls giving him their number is really a problem."
Loving Summer was absolutely the perfect way to start the summer! It was a very short, light read, perfect for the beach. Although it isn't all rainbows and unicorns, it mostly focuses on the time Summer spends with three boys and their romances.
Plot: Loving Summer was the first novel I have read by Kailin Gow and now, I can see why readers love her work so much. Her work is mainly romance, but she incorporates so much character-building and well-written narration, you can't help but love whatever she writes. Summer hasn't seen her best friend Rachel and her two brothers, Drew and Nat in over three years. Summer has always had a crush on Nat but he has never seemed to notice her...until now. Although my first thought was that this was going to be yet another boring, sappy romance novel, it turned out to be so much more!
Characters: Gow really takes her time developing each of her characters' personalities, which is what makes this book so much fun to read:
Summer: The protagonist of the novel. She has changed drastically from the girl with braces and glasses to an incredibly beautiful girl, but is still sweet as ever. Has had a crush on Nat since forever. The thing I love most about Summer is that she knows who she is. She knows that she's pretty and athletic and that boys notice her now. She is aware that all three boys have a thing for her instead of being annoyingly oblivious.
Drew Donovan: At first, he is shown to be an uncaring jerk, who is unbelievably hot but sleeps with many girls then forgets about them. Slowly, however, you realize he is devoted (guess who to!) and considerate. Think Damon from Vampire Diaries, except he changes after meeting Elena. And just like I love Damon, I am Team Drew all the way! :D
Nathaniel "Nat" Donovan: The first thing I thought of was that the name sounds a LOT like Matt Donovan (again, Vampire Diaries). But if you really wanted a comparison (from VD), take Stefan while his feelings were turned off by Klaus and Elena still cared about him (I sure hope you've watched this last season!). That's kind of how Nat is throughout the book. He's always playing with Summer's feelings - uncaring and out of the picture. Then after a while, he shows up, alternately telling her he cares for her and then informing they can't ever be together.
Astor Fairway: A TV star of popular teen shows and movies. He doesn't have friends outside of Summer and the actors he works with. He asks Summer out at a party in the beginning and they start dating and stay that way throughout the book. Hot, sweet, smart and rich - he's the perfect boyfriend...if only he could stop going away to movie shoots.
Rachel Donovan: Summer's best friend. Recently turned Goth, she is pretty and sweet, but not too big in the story - except when it's something about her boyfriend Ryan. I wish she were shown to be the best friend that she is, maybe with Summer confiding in her about some things.
Aunt Sookie: She owns the beach house and the Acting Academy. This is the character I most wish I'd seen more of. She sounds like a fabulous aunt and her stories about her 20s would be a great addition to the story. Oh well..
Romanciness:The romanciness is so CUTE!! Instead of wanting to gag, I was pulled along through the love triangle or love pentagon or whatever it was, and I stayed up late because I wanted to know who Summer ends up with so bad!!!
POV: Most of the novel is told through Summer's point of view, but there are a few amazing chapters told through Drew's point of view. I love the bit of guy's perspective in the whole thing, although I feel like it's a huge giveaway to who Summer might possibly be with in the end (this is not a spoiler, I don't know either!)
Ending: I just wish all of them were shown to be great choices in the end, so it would make it harder for the reader to pick a "team" for the second book. As it is, only one stands out as the best choice. And I'm not the only one who thinks so! If you have read the book, be sure to go vote on which team you're on at theedgebooks.com!
Cover/Title: The cover fit the theme of this book just right, with a girl and guy holding hands in front of a setting sun. Their backs are turned so that gives it sort of a mysterious aura as to who it could be. The title is cool too - it makes sense with Summer meaning both the season and the protagonist. If you're going to read this book, I encourage you to get a physical copy. The cover's made out a weird rubbery substance, so when you let your fingers slide over it, the book squeaks! I just thought that was the coolest thing and I found myself rubbing it while reading :D
May 28, 2021
My All Time Favorite Summer Read! I read it every summer because I love this story so much!
March 28, 2018
‘I know I can’t let this summer be the last happy summer we have at the beach house.‘
California author/filmmaker Kailin Gow has worked as an Exec in charge of Legal and Production at Walt Disney Company, a writer/producer for Cable Television, an Exec at high tech start ups, an Exec at Fortune 100 Hotel and Travel Corporations, a model, a tour director, journalist, re-organization consultant, and secret shopper. She holds a Masters Degree in Communications Management from USC and Drama/Film and Social Ecology Degrees from UC Irvine. Now combining her highly successful career as an author and filmmaker Kailin uses her personal life's adversities into an inspiration and drive to write empowering books and stories for girls and women of all ages.
In keeping with her mission to empower women Kailin has written a sweet romance that contains social issues such as coming of age, mental illness, divorce, depression, death, and family. How she makes these seemingly disparate themes related is evident in the opening of the Prologue of this story – ‘When I think of my summers spent at Aunt Sookie’s Malibu “pad” as she called it, I think about first kisses, first love, and first heartbreak. I think about my friendship with Rachel Donovan and her brothers Nathaniel (Nat) and Drew. I think of all the sunsets, dawns, and first attempts. And then there was this summer, the summer I grew up, in more ways than one, and everyone noticed, especially the boys, especially Nat." – Summer Jones.
Knowing that this novel is being transformed into a film it is good to note that Kailin’s ability to create characters and dialogue is unique and involving for movie audiences. She proves this rather early in the book with the following encounter: ‘When we all used to stay over at Aunt Sookie’s place on the beach every summer, it used to be great. It’s been three years now though. Maybe it won’t be so good. Maybe I won’t even know Rachel so much. We’ve talked on the phone and online, but a friend you spend all summer with is different to one you just talk to now and again, right? I haven’t seen any of the Donovans since they moved away to San Francisco. And what about Drew? What about Nat? I wonder what he thought about the picture I sent. Did he like it? Did he see that I’m not some little girl anymore? “Summer?” There’s a Goth girl coming towards me, all purple streaked black hair, ivory skin and dark makeup, in a t-shirt and jeans that go with her hair like someone has streaked purple dye on them. I stare at her for a good couple of seconds before I see her face fully and rush forward to hug her. “Rachel!” I shouldn’t have worried about what it would be like with her back. Just hugging her, I know. I know that we’re exactly the friends we always were. Okay, so she’s done something freaky with her hair, but she’s still Rachel.’
Kailin’s synopsis outlines the excursion we are entering – ‘Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt's beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans - her best friend Rachel and Rachel's brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie's beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel's friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, escaped to the beach, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did, that there would be a second chance for everything good and bad, including love and romance...and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer.’
Solid writing lifting what could be a Chick Lit tale into a higher realm of character sensitivity, it is not surprising that this young lady is becoming a force in contemporary literature and film.
California author/filmmaker Kailin Gow has worked as an Exec in charge of Legal and Production at Walt Disney Company, a writer/producer for Cable Television, an Exec at high tech start ups, an Exec at Fortune 100 Hotel and Travel Corporations, a model, a tour director, journalist, re-organization consultant, and secret shopper. She holds a Masters Degree in Communications Management from USC and Drama/Film and Social Ecology Degrees from UC Irvine. Now combining her highly successful career as an author and filmmaker Kailin uses her personal life's adversities into an inspiration and drive to write empowering books and stories for girls and women of all ages.
In keeping with her mission to empower women Kailin has written a sweet romance that contains social issues such as coming of age, mental illness, divorce, depression, death, and family. How she makes these seemingly disparate themes related is evident in the opening of the Prologue of this story – ‘When I think of my summers spent at Aunt Sookie’s Malibu “pad” as she called it, I think about first kisses, first love, and first heartbreak. I think about my friendship with Rachel Donovan and her brothers Nathaniel (Nat) and Drew. I think of all the sunsets, dawns, and first attempts. And then there was this summer, the summer I grew up, in more ways than one, and everyone noticed, especially the boys, especially Nat." – Summer Jones.
Knowing that this novel is being transformed into a film it is good to note that Kailin’s ability to create characters and dialogue is unique and involving for movie audiences. She proves this rather early in the book with the following encounter: ‘When we all used to stay over at Aunt Sookie’s place on the beach every summer, it used to be great. It’s been three years now though. Maybe it won’t be so good. Maybe I won’t even know Rachel so much. We’ve talked on the phone and online, but a friend you spend all summer with is different to one you just talk to now and again, right? I haven’t seen any of the Donovans since they moved away to San Francisco. And what about Drew? What about Nat? I wonder what he thought about the picture I sent. Did he like it? Did he see that I’m not some little girl anymore? “Summer?” There’s a Goth girl coming towards me, all purple streaked black hair, ivory skin and dark makeup, in a t-shirt and jeans that go with her hair like someone has streaked purple dye on them. I stare at her for a good couple of seconds before I see her face fully and rush forward to hug her. “Rachel!” I shouldn’t have worried about what it would be like with her back. Just hugging her, I know. I know that we’re exactly the friends we always were. Okay, so she’s done something freaky with her hair, but she’s still Rachel.’
Kailin’s synopsis outlines the excursion we are entering – ‘Summer has always looked forward to spending her summers at her Aunt's beach house with the Donovans. To her, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house was magical, especially getting to spend time with the Donovans - her best friend Rachel and Rachel's brothers Nathaniel, and Drew. Here at Aunt Sookie's beach house, they can be anyone and anything they dreamed. For Summer, she had always wished to become as pretty as Rachel and for her brothers to think of her as more than Rachel's friend. For Nat and Drew, summers at Aunt Sookie's beach house meant fun and escape, a place where they go to with their mom and sister for the summer, escaped to the beach, away from city life. They never thought this summer would be different. They never thought things would change as much as they did, that there would be a second chance for everything good and bad, including love and romance...and it all began with them falling for and loving Summer.’
Solid writing lifting what could be a Chick Lit tale into a higher realm of character sensitivity, it is not surprising that this young lady is becoming a force in contemporary literature and film.
May 28, 2012
What would it be like if you could return to your favorite time of year? Summer has always loved spending time with her Aunt Sookie at her beach house in Malibu during the summer months. It helped that she also got to spend time with the Donovans - Rachel, Nathaniel and Drew. Summer had a lot of firsts with the Donnovans - "first kisses, first love and first heartbreak."
Rachel Donnovan is her best-friend and she is excited to be spending the summer with them after not having done so in a while. Summer has always had a crush on Nathaniel aka Nat, but he has never thought of her more than his little sister's friend. They have always got along well and made summers the best time of the year.
Now that Summer, Rachel, Nat and Drew are older, will they still have the same relationships as they did when they were younger and carefree? What is going on in Aunt Sookie's life that she invited them all to her house for the summer?
Loving Summer was the first book that I have read by Kailin Gow. I must say, I haven't read a lot of contemporary books, but I really liked this novel. Not only did it keep me in suspense of what was happening, but the character's responses were believable. Gow really impressed me with this book and I am looking forward to reading her other books.
Cover:
On the cover there are a girl and a guy holding hands on the beach. This is appropriate because this book is all about falling for someone. The galley copy that I received was really shiny. I hope that they make changes in that in the final edition. I hated picking the book up for that reason because it squeaked.
Characters:
This is where I normally write what I liked and didn't like about the book and since I couldn't figure out what I didn't like, besides what was said in the cover section, I decided to go over the characters.
Summer Jones: She is different than the last time the Donnovans have seen her. It has been three years and she is no longer the little girl with braces and glasses. She is the main character of the book.
Rachel Donnovan: Summer's best friend and the twin sister of Drew. She is going through her Goth stage currently. Rachel has felt the need to differentiate herself from her twin. Even though Drew and she are fraternal twins, they look alike. Rachel says she feels more like herself with her Goth look.
Nathaniel Donnovan: He is the oldest of the bunch. He is leaving his girlfriend, Chrissy, to go to Aunt Sookie's house for the summer. He isn’t happy about leaving at that time, but when he gets to Aunt Sookie’s house in Malibu, his attitude changes.
Drew Donnovan: He is the jock of the family and is missing football camp to go to Aunt Sookie's house. He is Rachel's twin brother and older by five minutes. She has told him that she doesn't want him to pursue a relationship with Summer because she doesn't want her to get hurt. Drew is used to getting a lot of ladies who only want to have sex. "I don't have girlfriends. Just girls who like to have their way with me."
Astor Fairway: He is an actor who is currently starring in a teen sitcom and sometimes takes private lessons from Aunt Sookie's Acting Academy. He says that he doesn’t really have any friends other than friends in the acting business.
Aunt Sookie: She owns and runs the Acting Academy. She loves having Summer and the Donnovans up to her beach house during the summer.
Rachel Donnovan is her best-friend and she is excited to be spending the summer with them after not having done so in a while. Summer has always had a crush on Nathaniel aka Nat, but he has never thought of her more than his little sister's friend. They have always got along well and made summers the best time of the year.
Now that Summer, Rachel, Nat and Drew are older, will they still have the same relationships as they did when they were younger and carefree? What is going on in Aunt Sookie's life that she invited them all to her house for the summer?
Loving Summer was the first book that I have read by Kailin Gow. I must say, I haven't read a lot of contemporary books, but I really liked this novel. Not only did it keep me in suspense of what was happening, but the character's responses were believable. Gow really impressed me with this book and I am looking forward to reading her other books.
Cover:
On the cover there are a girl and a guy holding hands on the beach. This is appropriate because this book is all about falling for someone. The galley copy that I received was really shiny. I hope that they make changes in that in the final edition. I hated picking the book up for that reason because it squeaked.
Characters:
This is where I normally write what I liked and didn't like about the book and since I couldn't figure out what I didn't like, besides what was said in the cover section, I decided to go over the characters.
Summer Jones: She is different than the last time the Donnovans have seen her. It has been three years and she is no longer the little girl with braces and glasses. She is the main character of the book.
Rachel Donnovan: Summer's best friend and the twin sister of Drew. She is going through her Goth stage currently. Rachel has felt the need to differentiate herself from her twin. Even though Drew and she are fraternal twins, they look alike. Rachel says she feels more like herself with her Goth look.
Nathaniel Donnovan: He is the oldest of the bunch. He is leaving his girlfriend, Chrissy, to go to Aunt Sookie's house for the summer. He isn’t happy about leaving at that time, but when he gets to Aunt Sookie’s house in Malibu, his attitude changes.
Drew Donnovan: He is the jock of the family and is missing football camp to go to Aunt Sookie's house. He is Rachel's twin brother and older by five minutes. She has told him that she doesn't want him to pursue a relationship with Summer because she doesn't want her to get hurt. Drew is used to getting a lot of ladies who only want to have sex. "I don't have girlfriends. Just girls who like to have their way with me."
Astor Fairway: He is an actor who is currently starring in a teen sitcom and sometimes takes private lessons from Aunt Sookie's Acting Academy. He says that he doesn’t really have any friends other than friends in the acting business.
Aunt Sookie: She owns and runs the Acting Academy. She loves having Summer and the Donnovans up to her beach house during the summer.
June 27, 2012
originally appeared on: Bookshelf Confessions
Shame, but I haven’t read any of Kailin’s book other than this. And like many other readers, I did enjoy reading “Loving Summer”.
I am a bit hesitant of reviewing the book actually. Not because I don’t like it, but because I have problems reading e-books. But when the tour comes out, it just happens, I sign-up for review and here I am. Note: My review is not influenced by my participating in the blog tour. This is my own honest opinion.
I really like the main character, she’s not the type that goes “I’m not worthy for your affection” and she’s not also someone who just jumps to a boy whenever he shows attraction towards her. Summer is different from any contemporary female lead.
Kailin’s writing style was a bit descriptive that it seemed I could feel the breeze on my face. (Oh, I love summer). She managed to give us enough details about Drew, Nat and Astor, that it would make the readers really think of who should Summer end up with. There was such depth in each of the character, that you would really sympathize with each, which makes it harder for Summer. Kailin made the idea of 3 guys falling for the same girl genuine, like I could see why they’d tend to like Summer. Naturally, the love story isn’t forced at all.
I also salute the author for merging family issues into young adult contemporary romance. The book talks about divorce and how it affects the children and even health and life issues. So you guys get the picture, it’s not just a book that focuses on boys and love, it has depth too.
It’s not until the very end of the book that I realize this is going to be a series. So there are a lots of things that are left open, even who Summer will end up with. But for me, I have already chosen someone for her ( I wouldn’t spoil the fun by telling you so..:))
One thing the bugs me though, is that why would Summer kissed all of them (not really jealous..:)).. and yet she didn’t even know what she really felt…and I do wish she spent more time with her best friend Rachel. It’s also a little bit the same with Jenny Han's "The Summer I Turned Pretty" but with different conflicts plus there’s not a love triangle but a love square.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book. It was short (for me) and fun mixed with drama and love.. It’s my only summer read with summer as a theme so Highly recommended to your summer-read-shelf..:)
I’ll definitely read the next book and see what would happen next…
Shame, but I haven’t read any of Kailin’s book other than this. And like many other readers, I did enjoy reading “Loving Summer”.
I am a bit hesitant of reviewing the book actually. Not because I don’t like it, but because I have problems reading e-books. But when the tour comes out, it just happens, I sign-up for review and here I am. Note: My review is not influenced by my participating in the blog tour. This is my own honest opinion.
I really like the main character, she’s not the type that goes “I’m not worthy for your affection” and she’s not also someone who just jumps to a boy whenever he shows attraction towards her. Summer is different from any contemporary female lead.
Kailin’s writing style was a bit descriptive that it seemed I could feel the breeze on my face. (Oh, I love summer). She managed to give us enough details about Drew, Nat and Astor, that it would make the readers really think of who should Summer end up with. There was such depth in each of the character, that you would really sympathize with each, which makes it harder for Summer. Kailin made the idea of 3 guys falling for the same girl genuine, like I could see why they’d tend to like Summer. Naturally, the love story isn’t forced at all.
I also salute the author for merging family issues into young adult contemporary romance. The book talks about divorce and how it affects the children and even health and life issues. So you guys get the picture, it’s not just a book that focuses on boys and love, it has depth too.
It’s not until the very end of the book that I realize this is going to be a series. So there are a lots of things that are left open, even who Summer will end up with. But for me, I have already chosen someone for her ( I wouldn’t spoil the fun by telling you so..:))
One thing the bugs me though, is that why would Summer kissed all of them (not really jealous..:)).. and yet she didn’t even know what she really felt…and I do wish she spent more time with her best friend Rachel. It’s also a little bit the same with Jenny Han's "The Summer I Turned Pretty" but with different conflicts plus there’s not a love triangle but a love square.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the book. It was short (for me) and fun mixed with drama and love.. It’s my only summer read with summer as a theme so Highly recommended to your summer-read-shelf..:)
I’ll definitely read the next book and see what would happen next…
June 21, 2012
Loving Summer did not go the way I expected. I was expecting a typical love triangle, but the book was so much more than that, and not just because there was third love interest.
Summer is the central character and she comes across as very likeable. She struggles with her seemingly unrequited love for Nat, and her growing attraction to Drew and a popular actor who is working for her aunt, who is showing an interest in her as well. There was a lot of room for Summer to make selfish, or silly decisions, but she doesn't. What really made me like her was that she doesn't try to play games with them. Instead she tries to be fair, and honest with not only herself, but also with the three guys.
The other characters, especially Nat and Drew felt very well developed and thought out. Drew starts off as the playboy, interested in sex and, well, more sex. But he goes through a gradual change that seems believable and makes him into someone that the reader could see being with Summer. Nat on the other hand, has fewer scenes in the book, but they reveal his character very clearly. He's the responsible older brother, and it's not until near the end of the book that the reader learns all of the things he's been dealing with, which only makes him more attractive.
The ending of Loving Summer definitely had me wanting more, if only so Summer could end up with the person I wanted her to be with! This was a great summer read and I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog Turning the Pages
Summer is the central character and she comes across as very likeable. She struggles with her seemingly unrequited love for Nat, and her growing attraction to Drew and a popular actor who is working for her aunt, who is showing an interest in her as well. There was a lot of room for Summer to make selfish, or silly decisions, but she doesn't. What really made me like her was that she doesn't try to play games with them. Instead she tries to be fair, and honest with not only herself, but also with the three guys.
The other characters, especially Nat and Drew felt very well developed and thought out. Drew starts off as the playboy, interested in sex and, well, more sex. But he goes through a gradual change that seems believable and makes him into someone that the reader could see being with Summer. Nat on the other hand, has fewer scenes in the book, but they reveal his character very clearly. He's the responsible older brother, and it's not until near the end of the book that the reader learns all of the things he's been dealing with, which only makes him more attractive.
The ending of Loving Summer definitely had me wanting more, if only so Summer could end up with the person I wanted her to be with! This was a great summer read and I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Check out more of my reviews on my blog Turning the Pages
February 1, 2012
This book looks very interesting and seems like it has a really cool storyline
Want to read
February 8, 2012Looking forward to this, but something sounds familiar about it? But some plots are too awesome for one book/series!
May 29, 2021
A Classic Summer Read!
This series was my ADDICTION when it first came out. Now I am re-reading and binging on the entire series and its many spin-offs.
I am totally falling back in love with this series and all its beloved characters. One of my all time favorites!
This series was my ADDICTION when it first came out. Now I am re-reading and binging on the entire series and its many spin-offs.
I am totally falling back in love with this series and all its beloved characters. One of my all time favorites!
June 5, 2012
Book: Loving Summer by Kailin Gow
Pages: 210
Genre: Young Adult, Romance
Source: Sent from The Edge Books
Short Synopsis: Summer always enjoyed spending her summers at Aunt Sookie's house along with the Donavan's, Nat, Drew, and Rachel. But it's been three years since they've seen each other, and everyone has changed since then.
My Thoughts: Not quite as good as Gow's Saving You Saving Me series, but still an interesting read with exciting characters.
Summer had always loved spending her summers at her Aunt Sookie's place. Along with the Donavan's, she always felt like she could be herself. But it's been three years since she's seen Aunt Sookie and the Donovans as well, and couldn't be more excited to see her old friends once again.
But this summer is a year that Summer and the Donavan's will never forget. As summer helps out her aunt with the acting academy, Summer meets Astor Fairway, a famous celebrity, and the two start to develop a relationship.
But Summer didn't expect to get so close to the Donavan brothers either. Summer's long time crush on Nat has re-hashed once again, and Drew starts to develop feelings for Summer as well. But things aren't all fun and games in the household. Summer discovers that their aunt Sookie has become seriously ill, and the Donovans' parents are having their own problems too. Summer does everything she can to help aunt Sookie and her acting academy, while the Donovans face the reality of their parent's current issues. Can Summer survive this summer, and find out who she truly has feelings for?
I seriously have no idea why I haven't picked up a Kailin Gow novel until this year. I really enjoy her writing style. The characters and plots are unique, with romances, and drama, I felt such sympathy for the situations that the characters are thrust into.
I loved reading how each relationship developed between Summer, Drew, Nat, and even Astor, and how they were very different from each individual as well. I however wasn't a fan of the fact that Summer was a bit too free with her feelings. In this first novel, she manages to kiss all the boys involved, but doesn't really proclaim her feelings for one boy, or tell the others that she had kissed someone else.
Aside from the romance involved, I was a bit disappointed that Summer didn't really spend as much time with her best friend Rachel, and that there didn't seem to be much of a closeness with the two. I was really sympathetic towards the situation between their aunt Sookie, and the Donovans' parents. In general, this novel is filled with a lot of romance, drama, and I can't wait to see who Summer actually ends up with. P.S., I'm team Drew all the way!
Would I recommend this novel: Yes
Rating: I give this book a 4/5.
Pages: 210
Genre: Young Adult, Romance
Source: Sent from The Edge Books
Short Synopsis: Summer always enjoyed spending her summers at Aunt Sookie's house along with the Donavan's, Nat, Drew, and Rachel. But it's been three years since they've seen each other, and everyone has changed since then.
My Thoughts: Not quite as good as Gow's Saving You Saving Me series, but still an interesting read with exciting characters.
Summer had always loved spending her summers at her Aunt Sookie's place. Along with the Donavan's, she always felt like she could be herself. But it's been three years since she's seen Aunt Sookie and the Donovans as well, and couldn't be more excited to see her old friends once again.
But this summer is a year that Summer and the Donavan's will never forget. As summer helps out her aunt with the acting academy, Summer meets Astor Fairway, a famous celebrity, and the two start to develop a relationship.
But Summer didn't expect to get so close to the Donavan brothers either. Summer's long time crush on Nat has re-hashed once again, and Drew starts to develop feelings for Summer as well. But things aren't all fun and games in the household. Summer discovers that their aunt Sookie has become seriously ill, and the Donovans' parents are having their own problems too. Summer does everything she can to help aunt Sookie and her acting academy, while the Donovans face the reality of their parent's current issues. Can Summer survive this summer, and find out who she truly has feelings for?
I seriously have no idea why I haven't picked up a Kailin Gow novel until this year. I really enjoy her writing style. The characters and plots are unique, with romances, and drama, I felt such sympathy for the situations that the characters are thrust into.
I loved reading how each relationship developed between Summer, Drew, Nat, and even Astor, and how they were very different from each individual as well. I however wasn't a fan of the fact that Summer was a bit too free with her feelings. In this first novel, she manages to kiss all the boys involved, but doesn't really proclaim her feelings for one boy, or tell the others that she had kissed someone else.
Aside from the romance involved, I was a bit disappointed that Summer didn't really spend as much time with her best friend Rachel, and that there didn't seem to be much of a closeness with the two. I was really sympathetic towards the situation between their aunt Sookie, and the Donovans' parents. In general, this novel is filled with a lot of romance, drama, and I can't wait to see who Summer actually ends up with. P.S., I'm team Drew all the way!
Would I recommend this novel: Yes
Rating: I give this book a 4/5.
November 5, 2012
This review is also posted on my blog, Anatea's Bookshelf.
So, I'm a little torn on what to think about this book. But I decided to give it 3 stars after all. If I gave it 2 stars, that would mean I didn't quite enjoy the book, which I did. I read it in one sitting. Before you know it you're half way throught the book, and than you decide to read just one more chapter, and than you're finished with the book. There just isn't the right moment to stop reading. This book is a real page turner!
I didn't really like Summer. I think she's insecure and she doesn't know what she wants. Playing with three guys just isn't my thing. I do like a good love triangle, and I even liked the love-square here, but I don't quite like Summer.
But than on the other hand, I just loved the guys!
So, we have BOY #1. Astor. He's a famous actor and he's Summer's boyfriend. He's pretty likeable. He's sweet, he looks good, and he loves Summer a lot. I could see why would someone want to be with him.
Than we have BOY #2, Nat. Summer had a crush on him for like forever. And when he finaly notices her and admits his feelings, things get complicated and his priority is not Summer.
And BOY #3 is Drew. He's kinda a man-whore. But once he spends a little time with Summer he's starting to really fall for her. He's always there for her no matter what happeneds and we see him change drasticly throught the book. As you can already guess, I'm Team Drew!
So, all in all, this book is okay. There are a few scenes that I really liked. There are some that made me cry, and there are some that made laugh really hard. So if you're looking for some light read, go on, and read this book :)
So, I'm a little torn on what to think about this book. But I decided to give it 3 stars after all. If I gave it 2 stars, that would mean I didn't quite enjoy the book, which I did. I read it in one sitting. Before you know it you're half way throught the book, and than you decide to read just one more chapter, and than you're finished with the book. There just isn't the right moment to stop reading. This book is a real page turner!
I didn't really like Summer. I think she's insecure and she doesn't know what she wants. Playing with three guys just isn't my thing. I do like a good love triangle, and I even liked the love-square here, but I don't quite like Summer.
But than on the other hand, I just loved the guys!
So, we have BOY #1. Astor. He's a famous actor and he's Summer's boyfriend. He's pretty likeable. He's sweet, he looks good, and he loves Summer a lot. I could see why would someone want to be with him.
Than we have BOY #2, Nat. Summer had a crush on him for like forever. And when he finaly notices her and admits his feelings, things get complicated and his priority is not Summer.
And BOY #3 is Drew. He's kinda a man-whore. But once he spends a little time with Summer he's starting to really fall for her. He's always there for her no matter what happeneds and we see him change drasticly throught the book. As you can already guess, I'm Team Drew!
So, all in all, this book is okay. There are a few scenes that I really liked. There are some that made me cry, and there are some that made laugh really hard. So if you're looking for some light read, go on, and read this book :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews