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Rules of Summer #2
Blueberry Summer
Die große Liebe, Strand und Meer.
Ein neuer Sommer beginnt für Rory und Isabel – mit einer kleinen Neuerung: Rory ist fest mit Connor Rule zusammen und deshalb als Hausgast in den Hamptons. Und genau das bringt Komplikationen mit sich, denn irgendwie scheint Connor ein Problem damit zu haben, dass Rory nicht mehr für seine Familie arbeitet. Isabel dagegen arbeitet zur Überraschung aller als Kellnerin, um einen süßen Typen zu beeindrucken – irgendwie muss sie ja über ihre Affäre mit Mike hinwegkommen. Das klappt ganz gut, bis Rory auf Isabels Neuen trifft ... Und Isabel wieder auf Mike.
Ein neuer Sommer beginnt für Rory und Isabel – mit einer kleinen Neuerung: Rory ist fest mit Connor Rule zusammen und deshalb als Hausgast in den Hamptons. Und genau das bringt Komplikationen mit sich, denn irgendwie scheint Connor ein Problem damit zu haben, dass Rory nicht mehr für seine Familie arbeitet. Isabel dagegen arbeitet zur Überraschung aller als Kellnerin, um einen süßen Typen zu beeindrucken – irgendwie muss sie ja über ihre Affäre mit Mike hinwegkommen. Das klappt ganz gut, bis Rory auf Isabels Neuen trifft ... Und Isabel wieder auf Mike.
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
64 people are currently reading
1720 people want to read
About the author
Joanna Philbin
16 books323 followersJoanna Philbin was born in Los Angeles and grew up in New York City. She is the daughter of television host Regis Philbin. She started her first novel at the age of seven, but only got as far as the second chapter. She went on to receive her B.A. from Brown University and an M.F.A. from the University of Notre Dame. She now lives in Santa Barbara, California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
June 11, 2014
Okay, so...this is disappointing to say the least. I guess I'll start by saying I had really high expectations for this. I just adored the first book. It was a YA written as if for adults. It wasn't dumbed down or silly--the storyline was good--and the setting was quaint and easily visualizable. :) Now: this book.
It was...not the same. A lot was just not the same, and where the first book was exciting and essentially about new beginnings, this one was about endings. So many endings, and everything seemed so quickly-paced and lacking in realistic development. Rory and Connor seemed to go from perfect couple to passionless in, like, five pages. I just didn't like it. And Mike--central to the last book, only made a couple appearances with a completely changed tune.
Although I liked Evan at first, but as the book went on, the addition of him seemed entirely unnecessary. What purpose did he serve? And why oh why did he and Rory seem to take off so quickly? It was like a rollercoaster, really.
Essentially, I felt like this was a sequel with characters of the same name, but entirely different personalities and values.
Or lack thereof.
It was...not the same. A lot was just not the same, and where the first book was exciting and essentially about new beginnings, this one was about endings. So many endings, and everything seemed so quickly-paced and lacking in realistic development. Rory and Connor seemed to go from perfect couple to passionless in, like, five pages. I just didn't like it. And Mike--central to the last book, only made a couple appearances with a completely changed tune.
Although I liked Evan at first, but as the book went on, the addition of him seemed entirely unnecessary. What purpose did he serve? And why oh why did he and Rory seem to take off so quickly? It was like a rollercoaster, really.
Essentially, I felt like this was a sequel with characters of the same name, but entirely different personalities and values.
Or lack thereof.
June 8, 2014
Didn't like this as much as I liked the first one. Too much bullshit boy problems.
August 24, 2023
3.75 ⭐️
My expectations for this sequel were low since most of the reviews said the first book was better, and I think that's partly why this book was so enjoyable. I didn't expect it to be the way it was if that makes sense. I really like how neutral everyone was- like I never fully hated anyone because they're all such real characters. The story felt really natural and unexpected. Obviously, I love Montauk/ Bridge Hampton and all the places in this book so knowing these places so well also makes the books so much fun. I kinda forgot most of the first book so at first I was sort of confused but I'm glad I pushed through. I really like the simple descriptive writing style too. Also the covers of these books- the duology- are SO pretty I love them. I finished this in like two days so I definitely recommend for some quick summer drama vibes.
songs:
pity party
everything taylor swift (especially the last great American dynasty because that's literally the Rule family)
My expectations for this sequel were low since most of the reviews said the first book was better, and I think that's partly why this book was so enjoyable. I didn't expect it to be the way it was if that makes sense. I really like how neutral everyone was- like I never fully hated anyone because they're all such real characters. The story felt really natural and unexpected. Obviously, I love Montauk/ Bridge Hampton and all the places in this book so knowing these places so well also makes the books so much fun. I kinda forgot most of the first book so at first I was sort of confused but I'm glad I pushed through. I really like the simple descriptive writing style too. Also the covers of these books- the duology- are SO pretty I love them. I finished this in like two days so I definitely recommend for some quick summer drama vibes.
songs:
pity party
everything taylor swift (especially the last great American dynasty because that's literally the Rule family)
August 4, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Since Last Summer by Joanna Philbin
Book Two of the Rules of Summer series
Publisher: Poppy
Publication Date: June 3, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Review copy sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Rory McShane should be excited to spend the summer in East Hampton with Connor Rule, her generous, smart, cute boyfriend. After all, Rory's no longer the hired help at the Rule family mansion on the beach, and she and Connor have made it through a year of long-distance dating. But now, in the months leading up to college, Rory can't help but wonder if she really belongs in Connor's world.
Isabel Rule is still trying to get over Mike, the devastatingly sexy surfer who broke her heart last summer. Enter Evan, an aspiring filmmaker who's kind, funny, and crushing on Isabel. He'd be the perfect summer fling -- so why can't she seem to forget about Mike?
Set against a backdrop buzzing with the rich, the famous, and the wannabe rich and famous, Since Last Summer, a companion novel to Rules of Summer, is the perfect beach read.
What I Liked:
Another series, binge-read and over! Well, I think this series is just a duo. I haven't seen anything saying that there would be more books in the series. And this book wrapped up really well, so it must be a duo. So yay, I completed another series! Even if I read the two books just days apart. I can still be proud of me!
This book picks up at the start of the next summer, the summer after the summer of book one. One year after book one occurs, Rory comes back to East Hampton, to Isabel, to Connor. But things aren't as she left them. Apparently, Mr. and Mrs. Rule are getting a divorce, but both Mrs. Rule and Connor are pretending that nothing is happening. Mr. Rule has moved out. Isabel is sick of all the secrets - especially the one that everyone is keeping from Gregory, Sloane, and Connor. Rory feels bad for having to keep it from Connor. Meanwhile, Isabel has found someone else, and he's great! Of course, nothing is perfect in the game of love, which both Isabel and Rory will discover.
Just like the first book, this book explores a variety of issues. Friendship, relationships, divorce, teenage drinking, social classes... I love how Philbin incorporates so many topics in one book. Or series. This book focused more on the the Rules' pending divorce, and less on the rich-poor aspect that was highlighted in the first book (between Rory and the Rules, and Mike and Isabel).
There are many friendships in this book. Rory and Isabel aren't perfect friends, but they're a really great example of two very different people who get along well. In the first book, the girls didn't want to get to know or like each other at first. In this book, the girls are close as friends, and they hurt each other. Without meaning to hurt each, they go through many obstacles, but this makes them closer friends. I love just how important friendship is in this book, especially since this book is told from both girls' points-of-view (dual third person).
The relationships... they are messy. You all know I'm not a fan of messy romance. I like it when characters can make up their mind, definitively, and not be wishy-washy. It's totally unfair to other people when a person can't decide on things, especially when it comes to relationships and feelings! In this book, Isabel meets Evan, who is fabulous. But she has lingering thoughts and feelings towards Mike, who actually does want to get back together wither. And Rory - Rory thought things were solid with Connor, but every time she turns around, he's hanging out with snobby friends from St. Paul's - especially some girls.
I never would have seen the way the romance would have gone in this book, for Rory. For Isabel, I saw it. Most of her thoughts were directed towards one person in particular. But for Rory? I was a bit shocked. It wasn't a shock at the end of the book - no, a reader will be able to tell as soon as this one specific scene comes up (think: pizza). But I was surprised. The summary led me to believe one thing. What happened was another.
So the romance was a huge factor in both girls' lives. The divorce, the secrets, the split family - all of these things weighed down on Rory, and frustrated Isabel. I feel like Rory had very little spine in this book - unlike the first book, where I thought she was a little more feisty and brazen. Isabel thought the same.
Both girls work this summer - Rory has an film internship, and Isabel takes a job as a waitress, where Evan works. I feel like the presence of the summer job and internship is great! Not nearly enough YA novels feature a teen having an internship, so that's awesome. Both girls mature in time, because of their responsibilities. And their romance problems. And their friendship.
All in all, a great sequel! I'm happy with this book. There were a few negatives, but nothing major!
What I Did Not Like:
Like I said, Rory's romance story took me by surprise, and at first, not in a good way. Philbin definitely did a great job of developing Rory's relationships with her peers (Isabel, Connor, etc.), but I was still a tad bit bothered by the romance. And the ending - wow! It's amazing how Rory did a 180 degrees turn from the beginning of book one to the end of book one... and right back around, from the beginning of two to the end of book two. Sort of. You'll see what I mean.
Also, I wanted a bit more between Rory and Connor in this book. Unfortunately, I didn't get that. And there wasn't too much passion and excitement between Isabel and Evan. I almost was rooting for Mike to come back and sweep Isabel off her feet, because the two of them were passionate. Well. Things worked out for Isabel and Rory, in the end. Despite the messy romance. It was messy, but it was okay.
Would I Recommend It:
If you've read the first book, definitely read this sequel novel! A lot of things are resolved and wrapped up really nicely in this book. And if you haven't read either book, that's okay! There are a lot of contemporary novels out there, but I can safely say that this is a good summer series! Especially since it's literally all about summer in both books.
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I liked this sequel! I think I liked the first book better, but that doesn't mean I didn't like this one as well! After all, they got the same overall rating. So that's a good sign! This is a great summer/beach-reading series, if anyone is looking out for something like that!
Since Last Summer by Joanna Philbin
Book Two of the Rules of Summer series
Publisher: Poppy
Publication Date: June 3, 2014
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Review copy sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
Rory McShane should be excited to spend the summer in East Hampton with Connor Rule, her generous, smart, cute boyfriend. After all, Rory's no longer the hired help at the Rule family mansion on the beach, and she and Connor have made it through a year of long-distance dating. But now, in the months leading up to college, Rory can't help but wonder if she really belongs in Connor's world.
Isabel Rule is still trying to get over Mike, the devastatingly sexy surfer who broke her heart last summer. Enter Evan, an aspiring filmmaker who's kind, funny, and crushing on Isabel. He'd be the perfect summer fling -- so why can't she seem to forget about Mike?
Set against a backdrop buzzing with the rich, the famous, and the wannabe rich and famous, Since Last Summer, a companion novel to Rules of Summer, is the perfect beach read.
What I Liked:
Another series, binge-read and over! Well, I think this series is just a duo. I haven't seen anything saying that there would be more books in the series. And this book wrapped up really well, so it must be a duo. So yay, I completed another series! Even if I read the two books just days apart. I can still be proud of me!
This book picks up at the start of the next summer, the summer after the summer of book one. One year after book one occurs, Rory comes back to East Hampton, to Isabel, to Connor. But things aren't as she left them. Apparently, Mr. and Mrs. Rule are getting a divorce, but both Mrs. Rule and Connor are pretending that nothing is happening. Mr. Rule has moved out. Isabel is sick of all the secrets - especially the one that everyone is keeping from Gregory, Sloane, and Connor. Rory feels bad for having to keep it from Connor. Meanwhile, Isabel has found someone else, and he's great! Of course, nothing is perfect in the game of love, which both Isabel and Rory will discover.
Just like the first book, this book explores a variety of issues. Friendship, relationships, divorce, teenage drinking, social classes... I love how Philbin incorporates so many topics in one book. Or series. This book focused more on the the Rules' pending divorce, and less on the rich-poor aspect that was highlighted in the first book (between Rory and the Rules, and Mike and Isabel).
There are many friendships in this book. Rory and Isabel aren't perfect friends, but they're a really great example of two very different people who get along well. In the first book, the girls didn't want to get to know or like each other at first. In this book, the girls are close as friends, and they hurt each other. Without meaning to hurt each, they go through many obstacles, but this makes them closer friends. I love just how important friendship is in this book, especially since this book is told from both girls' points-of-view (dual third person).
The relationships... they are messy. You all know I'm not a fan of messy romance. I like it when characters can make up their mind, definitively, and not be wishy-washy. It's totally unfair to other people when a person can't decide on things, especially when it comes to relationships and feelings! In this book, Isabel meets Evan, who is fabulous. But she has lingering thoughts and feelings towards Mike, who actually does want to get back together wither. And Rory - Rory thought things were solid with Connor, but every time she turns around, he's hanging out with snobby friends from St. Paul's - especially some girls.
I never would have seen the way the romance would have gone in this book, for Rory. For Isabel, I saw it. Most of her thoughts were directed towards one person in particular. But for Rory? I was a bit shocked. It wasn't a shock at the end of the book - no, a reader will be able to tell as soon as this one specific scene comes up (think: pizza). But I was surprised. The summary led me to believe one thing. What happened was another.
So the romance was a huge factor in both girls' lives. The divorce, the secrets, the split family - all of these things weighed down on Rory, and frustrated Isabel. I feel like Rory had very little spine in this book - unlike the first book, where I thought she was a little more feisty and brazen. Isabel thought the same.
Both girls work this summer - Rory has an film internship, and Isabel takes a job as a waitress, where Evan works. I feel like the presence of the summer job and internship is great! Not nearly enough YA novels feature a teen having an internship, so that's awesome. Both girls mature in time, because of their responsibilities. And their romance problems. And their friendship.
All in all, a great sequel! I'm happy with this book. There were a few negatives, but nothing major!
What I Did Not Like:
Like I said, Rory's romance story took me by surprise, and at first, not in a good way. Philbin definitely did a great job of developing Rory's relationships with her peers (Isabel, Connor, etc.), but I was still a tad bit bothered by the romance. And the ending - wow! It's amazing how Rory did a 180 degrees turn from the beginning of book one to the end of book one... and right back around, from the beginning of two to the end of book two. Sort of. You'll see what I mean.
Also, I wanted a bit more between Rory and Connor in this book. Unfortunately, I didn't get that. And there wasn't too much passion and excitement between Isabel and Evan. I almost was rooting for Mike to come back and sweep Isabel off her feet, because the two of them were passionate. Well. Things worked out for Isabel and Rory, in the end. Despite the messy romance. It was messy, but it was okay.
Would I Recommend It:
If you've read the first book, definitely read this sequel novel! A lot of things are resolved and wrapped up really nicely in this book. And if you haven't read either book, that's okay! There are a lot of contemporary novels out there, but I can safely say that this is a good summer series! Especially since it's literally all about summer in both books.
Rating:
3.5 stars -> rounded up to 4 stars. I liked this sequel! I think I liked the first book better, but that doesn't mean I didn't like this one as well! After all, they got the same overall rating. So that's a good sign! This is a great summer/beach-reading series, if anyone is looking out for something like that!
January 22, 2022
Having really enjoyed the first book “rules of summer”, i was really looking forward to reading the sequel. But boy was i disappointed. I would have been happier having never read it and in my head Rory and Connor would still be happy and together and everything would be fine…
But of course, that didn’t happen.
Honestly the main problem i have with this book is Rory herself. In the first one she’s really genuine and authentic and almost misunderstood. She’s someone a lot of us can relate to.
But in “since last summer” she was portrayed awfully. Not only did she treat Isabel poorly as a whole, but she literally kissed the guy she was dating. If that isn’t bad enough, she then acted manipulatively when she found out. Trying to make her feel guilty or make excuses etc. And she’s a lot more dramatic now, especially with the whole leaving thing. Even when i was reading her POV, i hated her.
But of course, that didn’t happen.
Honestly the main problem i have with this book is Rory herself. In the first one she’s really genuine and authentic and almost misunderstood. She’s someone a lot of us can relate to.
But in “since last summer” she was portrayed awfully. Not only did she treat Isabel poorly as a whole, but she literally kissed the guy she was dating. If that isn’t bad enough, she then acted manipulatively when she found out. Trying to make her feel guilty or make excuses etc. And she’s a lot more dramatic now, especially with the whole leaving thing. Even when i was reading her POV, i hated her.
January 10, 2015
I won a copy of this book from LibraryThing. I read the prequel to this book Rules of Summerfirst, since I had not read that yet. While I enjoyed both books, I liked the first book a little bit better.
Since Last Summer is a relatively "clean" YA Romance novel. I would rate it PG 13. I enjoyed reading this, it was quick moving with lots of drama. There are a few reasons I did not give more than 3 stars. First, some of the things that happened in the story were just a little too predictable and/or unrealistic in an exaggerated way. Also, in the first book Mrs. Rule was a pretty intimidating lady, and in this book she seemed almost desperate for a friend and was a little clingy to Rory. I found that a little odd and unlikely. Another thing that bothered me were the little details the author included that didn't always add up. I definitely noticed at least one instance of this happening in the first book, but it seemed to occur much more frequently in the second book. For example, in one scene Rory's suitcases were in the trunk and she never took them out, yet a few sentences later she was zipping them up... I know this has nothing to do with the story, but these kind of details just bug me, especially when it happens frequently.
Overall, I liked the story and enjoyed reading it. I definitely get a cool sort of vacation-y feeling while reading these books. I hope that there is another sequel next summer, because I would like to find out how these girls are doing!
Since Last Summer is a relatively "clean" YA Romance novel. I would rate it PG 13. I enjoyed reading this, it was quick moving with lots of drama. There are a few reasons I did not give more than 3 stars. First, some of the things that happened in the story were just a little too predictable and/or unrealistic in an exaggerated way. Also, in the first book Mrs. Rule was a pretty intimidating lady, and in this book she seemed almost desperate for a friend and was a little clingy to Rory. I found that a little odd and unlikely. Another thing that bothered me were the little details the author included that didn't always add up. I definitely noticed at least one instance of this happening in the first book, but it seemed to occur much more frequently in the second book. For example, in one scene Rory's suitcases were in the trunk and she never took them out, yet a few sentences later she was zipping them up... I know this has nothing to do with the story, but these kind of details just bug me, especially when it happens frequently.
Overall, I liked the story and enjoyed reading it. I definitely get a cool sort of vacation-y feeling while reading these books. I hope that there is another sequel next summer, because I would like to find out how these girls are doing!
August 2, 2014
I remembered loving the first book in this duology (Rules of Summer) but this book fell flat for me.
A big part of the reason for that is that the respective romances took center stage over the friendship between Rory and Isabel. (A major pet peeve of mine is when you have main characters who basically completely revolve around guys. And yes, these are teenage girls but still. STILL.)
Also, it seems like everything is overcome a little too easily. (SPOILERS) Rory and Connor are SO IN LOVE until they aren't and Isabel is SO MAD at Rory for "going after" Evan, until she isn't. And these changes come in pretty much literally a chapter each. Short chapters, too.
I did love her Daughters series and I will definitely check out whatever Joanna Philbin does next, but this book was not a favorite.
A big part of the reason for that is that the respective romances took center stage over the friendship between Rory and Isabel. (A major pet peeve of mine is when you have main characters who basically completely revolve around guys. And yes, these are teenage girls but still. STILL.)
Also, it seems like everything is overcome a little too easily. (SPOILERS) Rory and Connor are SO IN LOVE until they aren't and Isabel is SO MAD at Rory for "going after" Evan, until she isn't. And these changes come in pretty much literally a chapter each. Short chapters, too.
I did love her Daughters series and I will definitely check out whatever Joanna Philbin does next, but this book was not a favorite.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 9, 2018
I have to admit that I didn't like this book quite as much as the first one, but I still enjoyed it a lot. I was stunned to see it take a different direction than I predicted at several points within the story. No one ended up with who I thought they would end up with! I liked seeing the gradual change in relationships and how realistic it was portrayed. I liked the growth in Mrs. Rule's character as well as Isbel's. I enjoyed the addition of Amelia too, I didn't think I would like her at first but she proved me wrong.
While the focus on the difference between people with and without money was still there, I feel like more people in this book realized how little importance that holds.
I was sad to see how Connor changed, I'll be honest I had higher hopes for him, but I like that in the end he was still just such a good guy.
I think fans of the first book will enjoy this one as well, and some might even like it better, it probably depends on who they "ship."
While the focus on the difference between people with and without money was still there, I feel like more people in this book realized how little importance that holds.
I was sad to see how Connor changed, I'll be honest I had higher hopes for him, but I like that in the end he was still just such a good guy.
I think fans of the first book will enjoy this one as well, and some might even like it better, it probably depends on who they "ship."
July 19, 2016
3 stars.
Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed the first book Rules of Summer. It was a cute and fast YA read with a decent plot for a romance novel, at least in my opinion. I read it rather quickly and was just hooked. Rory was a respectable and loyal teenage girl and Isabel was a rebel just trying not to fit in. At the end of the novel, I was actually heartbroken for Isabel and I ended up liking her more than the main character, Rory.
However, Since Last Summer was a bit more of a rocky roller coaster for me. Rory goes back to the Hamptons to stay at the Rule house for another summer. There she wants to spend time with her boyfriend Conner and her best friend Isabel. However, there are still big secrets in the Rule household and Rory can’t help but be worried. Isabel has had almost a year to get over her heartbreak with Mike and then finds a cute new guy to get to know. All the while, she also must hide her family’s secrets.
**SPOILERS AHEAD**
I enjoyed the first few chapters, but then I began to notice how wildly different the characters had become from the first book.
Rory gets depressed over her boyfriend, Connor, for the smallest reasons, like not spending as much time with her as she thinks he should. They don’t even really have a fight, just a small little spat of sorts, and she thinks it’s the end of the world and they’re no longer the perfect couple. I know that teenage girls and adult women as well can be very sensitive especially with relationships. But she was not like this at all in the first novel. It’s as if her character did a complete 180. Maybe it had something to do with what happened in between the first and second novels since there is almost an entire year that we don’t actually read about. So a book on that year would have been nice.
Isabel still seems to have a rebellious attitude, which I like. She meets a new guy, Evan, and really likes him and he is pretty cool. I think I like him more than I liked Mike in the last book, and I actually did enjoy his character until it was revealed that he was using her. However, Isabel often gets upset that Rory spends so much time with her boyfriend, which I also think is not like her character from the first novel. This version of Isabel seems a lot needier than the first version.
Suddenly, Rory begins to have feelings for Isabel’s new boyfriend, Evan. I thought she was an independent young lady in the first novel, but she seemed to rely too heavily on approval from Connor and Evan in this novel. So that was very disappointing.
Also, Isabel runs into Mike again and of course she begins to have feelings for him again. I honestly saw it coming so I did expect them to get back together, even though I thought Mike did make some bad decisions in the first novel.
The element of keeping secrets was a nice touch to this novel. Not only did Rory and Isabel have to keep the secret of the Rules getting a divorce from strangers, but they also had to keep it from Connor. The girls also had the burden of hiding the secret of Mrs. Rule’s affair and that Isabel was a product of the affair. Mr. and Mrs. Rule were desperate to maintain the perfect couple, perfect family charade up for as long as they could.
By the middle of the novel, I was enjoying it again. I figured that Rory would end up with Evan and I knew that Isabel would run back to Mike. But I actually preferred things that way. Rory seemed to want to be with Evan more than Connor and that would mean she wouldn’t have to put up with acting like the Rules were perfect. Isabel was definitely a better fit with Mike, but I still thought Mike was an asshole. I wouldn’t have given him a second chance, but I’m not Isabel.
I enjoyed the drama between the two girls. Isabel calls Rory out on being practically a different person since last summer and getting a boyfriend. Rory calls out Isabel on being spoiled and a bit boy crazy. I think both were completely right. Rory did change to try to be perfect for Connor and Isabel was very needy about spending time with Rory yet wanting both Evan and Mike. It all worked out for them in the end of course, like I figured it would.
However, what I did not expect came at the end. Isabel finally hooks up with Mike again, but quickly runs from him when he starts acting like a real boyfriend. I thought that was what she wanted but she didn’t like it. I thought it was really strange and stupid of her. It was also very sudden in the writing so it wasn’t very believable. Rory decides not to pursue a relationship with Evan even though she really liked him. WHAT! I waited almost over half the novel for them to get together and they don’t. Nope. Instead Rory says they can be friends and even up and leaves to go back home for the rest of the summer! It was written very suddenly and very stupidly. I was not impressed. And then Mike shows up right after Rory leaves and Isabel doesn’t give him a second thought, just goes right along with him. But just a little bit ago she was complaining about him being too much of a boyfriend with her?? It seemed to me that the author was rushed with ending the novel and just threw in random plots to hurry the novel and finish it, which left me disappointed.
The novel really did have more potential than this. I was really disappointed that the characters had seemed to change, but at least that was part of the plot, so that’s something. The ending left more to be deserved and was a huge let down. The only redeeming part about this sequel was Mr. and Mrs. Rule and their secrets that Rory and Isabel had to keep. But there was so much more the author could have done with this novel.
Let me start by saying that I really enjoyed the first book Rules of Summer. It was a cute and fast YA read with a decent plot for a romance novel, at least in my opinion. I read it rather quickly and was just hooked. Rory was a respectable and loyal teenage girl and Isabel was a rebel just trying not to fit in. At the end of the novel, I was actually heartbroken for Isabel and I ended up liking her more than the main character, Rory.
However, Since Last Summer was a bit more of a rocky roller coaster for me. Rory goes back to the Hamptons to stay at the Rule house for another summer. There she wants to spend time with her boyfriend Conner and her best friend Isabel. However, there are still big secrets in the Rule household and Rory can’t help but be worried. Isabel has had almost a year to get over her heartbreak with Mike and then finds a cute new guy to get to know. All the while, she also must hide her family’s secrets.
**SPOILERS AHEAD**
I enjoyed the first few chapters, but then I began to notice how wildly different the characters had become from the first book.
Rory gets depressed over her boyfriend, Connor, for the smallest reasons, like not spending as much time with her as she thinks he should. They don’t even really have a fight, just a small little spat of sorts, and she thinks it’s the end of the world and they’re no longer the perfect couple. I know that teenage girls and adult women as well can be very sensitive especially with relationships. But she was not like this at all in the first novel. It’s as if her character did a complete 180. Maybe it had something to do with what happened in between the first and second novels since there is almost an entire year that we don’t actually read about. So a book on that year would have been nice.
Isabel still seems to have a rebellious attitude, which I like. She meets a new guy, Evan, and really likes him and he is pretty cool. I think I like him more than I liked Mike in the last book, and I actually did enjoy his character until it was revealed that he was using her. However, Isabel often gets upset that Rory spends so much time with her boyfriend, which I also think is not like her character from the first novel. This version of Isabel seems a lot needier than the first version.
Suddenly, Rory begins to have feelings for Isabel’s new boyfriend, Evan. I thought she was an independent young lady in the first novel, but she seemed to rely too heavily on approval from Connor and Evan in this novel. So that was very disappointing.
Also, Isabel runs into Mike again and of course she begins to have feelings for him again. I honestly saw it coming so I did expect them to get back together, even though I thought Mike did make some bad decisions in the first novel.
The element of keeping secrets was a nice touch to this novel. Not only did Rory and Isabel have to keep the secret of the Rules getting a divorce from strangers, but they also had to keep it from Connor. The girls also had the burden of hiding the secret of Mrs. Rule’s affair and that Isabel was a product of the affair. Mr. and Mrs. Rule were desperate to maintain the perfect couple, perfect family charade up for as long as they could.
By the middle of the novel, I was enjoying it again. I figured that Rory would end up with Evan and I knew that Isabel would run back to Mike. But I actually preferred things that way. Rory seemed to want to be with Evan more than Connor and that would mean she wouldn’t have to put up with acting like the Rules were perfect. Isabel was definitely a better fit with Mike, but I still thought Mike was an asshole. I wouldn’t have given him a second chance, but I’m not Isabel.
I enjoyed the drama between the two girls. Isabel calls Rory out on being practically a different person since last summer and getting a boyfriend. Rory calls out Isabel on being spoiled and a bit boy crazy. I think both were completely right. Rory did change to try to be perfect for Connor and Isabel was very needy about spending time with Rory yet wanting both Evan and Mike. It all worked out for them in the end of course, like I figured it would.
However, what I did not expect came at the end. Isabel finally hooks up with Mike again, but quickly runs from him when he starts acting like a real boyfriend. I thought that was what she wanted but she didn’t like it. I thought it was really strange and stupid of her. It was also very sudden in the writing so it wasn’t very believable. Rory decides not to pursue a relationship with Evan even though she really liked him. WHAT! I waited almost over half the novel for them to get together and they don’t. Nope. Instead Rory says they can be friends and even up and leaves to go back home for the rest of the summer! It was written very suddenly and very stupidly. I was not impressed. And then Mike shows up right after Rory leaves and Isabel doesn’t give him a second thought, just goes right along with him. But just a little bit ago she was complaining about him being too much of a boyfriend with her?? It seemed to me that the author was rushed with ending the novel and just threw in random plots to hurry the novel and finish it, which left me disappointed.
The novel really did have more potential than this. I was really disappointed that the characters had seemed to change, but at least that was part of the plot, so that’s something. The ending left more to be deserved and was a huge let down. The only redeeming part about this sequel was Mr. and Mrs. Rule and their secrets that Rory and Isabel had to keep. But there was so much more the author could have done with this novel.
July 21, 2018
Leider nicht mehr so packend wie der erste Band
July 11, 2022
3⭐️ Not as good as the first book. Way too much stupid boy drama and petty girl fights imo. Not to mention there’s a cheating trope🤢 But I love the rich Hampton vibe and the secrets/gossip between the families so it was a quick, easy read for me!!
June 15, 2022
what a roller coaster… isabel was definitely NOT herself in this book, i feel like she definitely changed somehow? also the situation between her and mike was never solved so idk about that. i feel like she’s the type of person who wants to live off of flings and doesn’t care for a real relationship. rory was also kind of like a side character in this so idk i think the entire book could’ve been written better.
July 13, 2023
Cute summer romance book! J'ai mieux aimer le premier!! Not a fan du ending, tout les ship que j'aimais on pas fini ensemble☹️ On dirait aussi que les personnages ne sont pas rester fidèle à comment ils étaient dans le premier livre, c'est comme si l'auteur à garder les mêmea noms, mais à complètement changer leur personnalité🫠
August 11, 2019
2,5 Sterne 🌟
Leider nicht so gut wie der erste Band. Viel zu viel unnötiges Drama 🙄
Leider nicht so gut wie der erste Band. Viel zu viel unnötiges Drama 🙄
August 9, 2018
Original review: https://holedupinabook.blogspot.com/2...
I think these books are overlooked because I’m not sure why there are such few ratings on them because I thoroughly enjoyed both books. I definitely enjoyed the first one a bit more because I was a bit disappointed in the outcome of Rory in the second book. I had really hoped that things would go a certain way for her but it didn’t so the second book left a slightly sour aftertaste.
For me, the best part was the friendship between Rory and Isabel. They’re unlikely friends but I can really tell how they came to be so close as the books progressed. The way how they stood up for each other in times of need was nice to see. It’s good to always have friends who you can rely on. And even though they fought at times and bickered, at the end of the day, they know what’s right and would forgive each other.
I was honestly glad that there was a second book because it really allowed the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Rule to be more firmly established and revealed. In the first book, it wasn’t really quite obvious as to why they were the way they were until the end but I was glad that in the second book, their relationship went a bit deeper. I was able to understand a little more from Mrs. Rule’s perspective.
As for the boys, oh my, I was quite enthused with the options, specifically with Mike and Connor. They were both introduced in the first book and I was really rooting for the both of them. In the second book, I was still rooting for the two of them but I did find myself liking Connor slightly less. He was becoming a little too much of a goody-two-shoes which I didn’t find attractive or appealing and he would often take it out on Isabel. However, I had high hopes that he would see the error of his way.
Overall, I did enjoy these two books and they were quite a fast read because it was just so engaging and I was constantly trying to find out what would happen with Isabel and Rory’s love lives.
I think these books are overlooked because I’m not sure why there are such few ratings on them because I thoroughly enjoyed both books. I definitely enjoyed the first one a bit more because I was a bit disappointed in the outcome of Rory in the second book. I had really hoped that things would go a certain way for her but it didn’t so the second book left a slightly sour aftertaste.
For me, the best part was the friendship between Rory and Isabel. They’re unlikely friends but I can really tell how they came to be so close as the books progressed. The way how they stood up for each other in times of need was nice to see. It’s good to always have friends who you can rely on. And even though they fought at times and bickered, at the end of the day, they know what’s right and would forgive each other.
I was honestly glad that there was a second book because it really allowed the relationship between Mr. and Mrs. Rule to be more firmly established and revealed. In the first book, it wasn’t really quite obvious as to why they were the way they were until the end but I was glad that in the second book, their relationship went a bit deeper. I was able to understand a little more from Mrs. Rule’s perspective.
As for the boys, oh my, I was quite enthused with the options, specifically with Mike and Connor. They were both introduced in the first book and I was really rooting for the both of them. In the second book, I was still rooting for the two of them but I did find myself liking Connor slightly less. He was becoming a little too much of a goody-two-shoes which I didn’t find attractive or appealing and he would often take it out on Isabel. However, I had high hopes that he would see the error of his way.
Overall, I did enjoy these two books and they were quite a fast read because it was just so engaging and I was constantly trying to find out what would happen with Isabel and Rory’s love lives.
July 26, 2014
*3.5 star rating*
Another book in this series? Really?
It wasn't needed. The previous and first book ended off the perfect way for a good summer contemporary read! And this one took two years to be written. Meh. I already forgot who the characters were in the series. Thank goodness Joanna gave us a recap.
This book was okay. I had some problems with it, but it overall was enjoyable, coming from this great author.
This book takes place right from where the first book left us off... well a year later. Rory is back in the Hamptons for a summer where she's the guest, since she is Connor's girlfriend and Isabel's best friend. Time is ticking, and Rory's beginning to wonder if it's working out between Connor and her, the first boy she's really loved. Isabel still can't forget about Mike, but when she meets Evan, she falls head over heels for him instantly, with some backtrack thoughts still nearing her down. How will their summer end?
The big question that was sorted through in this book was--Who do these chicks really love? That's all that's really surrounding the reader's mind, at least, mine. I really think that Joanna was trying to create some plot twists and surprises, but none of those really came out as shocking. And I didn't expect them to. This is just a plain Mary-Jane summer contemporary read that you can read beside the pool with loud screaming kids behind you and while you sip a plain old Coke. It was a very easy read and none of it seemed to be a big deal. So overall, the plot was okay, but really nothing special.
The characters were really what annoyed me. My hate for Rory was unbelievable.
I never really liked her in the first book, but now my disliking has gone extreme to a whole other level. She was selfish and didn't give a crap about anyone except her and her love life. She kissed Connor's ass the whole time through, and when he broke up with her, she didn't even care. She just acted like he was sad but she went to Amelia's (who she doesn't really know) house to hide and pretend that she was sad. She was a cold, heartless brat.
Now Isabel was the character I just adored. She was badass and wasn't afraid to be afraid. Bad things were coming her way, but she dealt with them strongly and appropriately. I just loved that girl. She's a definite character that you could look up to.
And then I got a different liking for another character... Evan.
YUM. No other words needed.
I'm silently hoping that this won't become a trilogy, because it doesn't need to be. It definitely should've stayed as a standalone, but it was enjoyable either way. The plot was good, and I liked what happened in the end.
Another book in this series? Really?
It wasn't needed. The previous and first book ended off the perfect way for a good summer contemporary read! And this one took two years to be written. Meh. I already forgot who the characters were in the series. Thank goodness Joanna gave us a recap.
This book was okay. I had some problems with it, but it overall was enjoyable, coming from this great author.
This book takes place right from where the first book left us off... well a year later. Rory is back in the Hamptons for a summer where she's the guest, since she is Connor's girlfriend and Isabel's best friend. Time is ticking, and Rory's beginning to wonder if it's working out between Connor and her, the first boy she's really loved. Isabel still can't forget about Mike, but when she meets Evan, she falls head over heels for him instantly, with some backtrack thoughts still nearing her down. How will their summer end?
The big question that was sorted through in this book was--Who do these chicks really love? That's all that's really surrounding the reader's mind, at least, mine. I really think that Joanna was trying to create some plot twists and surprises, but none of those really came out as shocking. And I didn't expect them to. This is just a plain Mary-Jane summer contemporary read that you can read beside the pool with loud screaming kids behind you and while you sip a plain old Coke. It was a very easy read and none of it seemed to be a big deal. So overall, the plot was okay, but really nothing special.
The characters were really what annoyed me. My hate for Rory was unbelievable.
I never really liked her in the first book, but now my disliking has gone extreme to a whole other level. She was selfish and didn't give a crap about anyone except her and her love life. She kissed Connor's ass the whole time through, and when he broke up with her, she didn't even care. She just acted like he was sad but she went to Amelia's (who she doesn't really know) house to hide and pretend that she was sad. She was a cold, heartless brat.
Now Isabel was the character I just adored. She was badass and wasn't afraid to be afraid. Bad things were coming her way, but she dealt with them strongly and appropriately. I just loved that girl. She's a definite character that you could look up to.
And then I got a different liking for another character... Evan.
YUM. No other words needed.
I'm silently hoping that this won't become a trilogy, because it doesn't need to be. It definitely should've stayed as a standalone, but it was enjoyable either way. The plot was good, and I liked what happened in the end.
October 12, 2014
I loved the first book and was surprised at the fact that a sequel was released. It had a nice premise, the reader learns that 18 year old Rory managed to make her long distance relationship with Connor work after all. While Isabel cannot get over Mike and is in a romance rut. She is back in Hamptons She finds out that her mother has no intention to inform her family of the truth. It was nice to get a recap on what went on last summer as I had only a vague idea.
The story began alright. It was okay and great. I liked finding out about Rory's internship and her relationship with Connor. The middle was a wreck. Serious. Rory and Isabel are best friends and so different but they turned out to be stupidly naive and cheaters. Yes, both of them and somehow the reader is thrown into the mess of relationships.
Rory develops a odd vibe from Connor when she arrives at the Rules house. Isabel needs to get over Mike, she meets Evan, a funny and sweet guy and they get together. Totally differently from Mike.
I liked Rory much more than Isabel. She was sensible and made mistakes. I did not like that the two girls always jump to conclusions and assumed.
What I liked about this book was that the reader gets a real look into what is is like to be wealthy. The catch is that wealthy does not always mean happy. There are secrets, lies, appearances and facades. All messy business. Mr and Mrs Rules relationship was a big thing in the book. It was my hope that Mrs Rule would admit to what happened. I did not like that she used Rory. Rory's internship showed that sometimes you will get taken advantage of for your connections and how you should deal with it. I was happy Rory handled things well and she was not hot headed like Isabel. Isabel was very immatured throughout the book. She should have gotten over Mike as what they had was not serious relationship material.
I find myself disappointed by this installment as it started out so well. This is for people who enjoy the PLL series and The Lying Game. If you love TONS of drama, the wealthy and summer this is for you.
The story began alright. It was okay and great. I liked finding out about Rory's internship and her relationship with Connor. The middle was a wreck. Serious. Rory and Isabel are best friends and so different but they turned out to be stupidly naive and cheaters. Yes, both of them and somehow the reader is thrown into the mess of relationships.
Rory develops a odd vibe from Connor when she arrives at the Rules house. Isabel needs to get over Mike, she meets Evan, a funny and sweet guy and they get together. Totally differently from Mike.
I liked Rory much more than Isabel. She was sensible and made mistakes. I did not like that the two girls always jump to conclusions and assumed.
What I liked about this book was that the reader gets a real look into what is is like to be wealthy. The catch is that wealthy does not always mean happy. There are secrets, lies, appearances and facades. All messy business. Mr and Mrs Rules relationship was a big thing in the book. It was my hope that Mrs Rule would admit to what happened. I did not like that she used Rory. Rory's internship showed that sometimes you will get taken advantage of for your connections and how you should deal with it. I was happy Rory handled things well and she was not hot headed like Isabel. Isabel was very immatured throughout the book. She should have gotten over Mike as what they had was not serious relationship material.
I find myself disappointed by this installment as it started out so well. This is for people who enjoy the PLL series and The Lying Game. If you love TONS of drama, the wealthy and summer this is for you.
July 20, 2015
Das Buch fing an und ich war gleich wieder in der Geschichte drin – und das obwohl Band 1 schon eine ganze Weile her ist. Die Atmosphäre war wie im ersten Buch und durch kleinere Erinnerungshilfen waren auch ein paar Lücken schnell wieder gefüllt, sodass ich mich gar nicht lange in die Geschichte einlesen musste.
Auch die Personen waren wieder so, wie man sie aus Strawberry Summer kennt: Rory als das Mädchen, das nicht so recht in die teure Schickimickigegend passt und Isabel, die nicht reinpassen will. Von Rory war ich aber stellenweise ziemlich genervt. Sie war mir einfach zu weinerlich und zu zickig. Im Klappentext heißt es zwar, dass Connor ein Problem hätte, aber meiner Meinung nach kann der arme Junge da überhaupt nichts für. Ja, ab und zu hat auch er sich komisch benommen, aber er tat mir die meiste Zeit einfach nur leid, weil Rory ihn so mies behandelt hat.
Isabel mochte ich da schon viel lieber. Sie trägt nach wie vor das Geheimnis um ihren leiblichen Vater mit sich herum, trifft dann diesen Typen und dann taucht auch noch Mike wieder auf, der sich geändert zu haben scheint. Kein Wunder, dass sie überfordert ist. Das größte Liebesdrama gab es dann in meinen Augen auch bei Isabel. Und auch wenn ja irgendwie klar ist, wie das ausgeht, war es trotzdem spannend zu lesen. Rorys Geschichte hat mich dagegen weiterhin genervt – wegen ihres Charakters, der so unfassbar anstrengend ist. Wenn sie hinter jedem Satz, den Connor von sich gibt, etwas blödes vermutet und den Mund nicht aufbekommt, wenn sie etwas stört, dann kann das ja auch nichts werden.
Da die Geschichte abwechselnd aus Isabels und aus Rorys Sicht geschrieben wurde, konnte ich mich dann nach Rorys Part gut abregen und Isabels Teil lesen, den ich immer sehr mochte. Allgemein ließ sich das Buch aber weglesen wie nichts. Es lässt sich leicht lesen, ein ideales Urlaubsbuch oder einfach für Regentage, wenn einem aber nach Sommer ist. Das Ende hat mich noch einmal echt überrascht. So vorhersehbar wie gedacht war die Geschichte dann schlussendlich doch nicht. Im ersten Moment war ich etwas verdattert und dachte mir "ernsthaft?!", aber als ich darüber nachgedacht habe, war es doch ein tolles Ende für die Geschichte.
Wer Strawberry Summer mochte, der wird auch an diesem Buch seinen Spaß haben. Man muss es nicht lesen, da Strawberry Summer ein abgeschlossenes Ende hat, aber dieses Ende hat mir als Ende noch einmal besser gefallen. Auch wenn Rory mir zeitweise den letzten Nerv geraubt hat, hat Isabels Part das Ruder wieder rumgerissen, sodass das Buch guten Gewissens von mit weiterempfohlen werden kann.
Auch die Personen waren wieder so, wie man sie aus Strawberry Summer kennt: Rory als das Mädchen, das nicht so recht in die teure Schickimickigegend passt und Isabel, die nicht reinpassen will. Von Rory war ich aber stellenweise ziemlich genervt. Sie war mir einfach zu weinerlich und zu zickig. Im Klappentext heißt es zwar, dass Connor ein Problem hätte, aber meiner Meinung nach kann der arme Junge da überhaupt nichts für. Ja, ab und zu hat auch er sich komisch benommen, aber er tat mir die meiste Zeit einfach nur leid, weil Rory ihn so mies behandelt hat.
Isabel mochte ich da schon viel lieber. Sie trägt nach wie vor das Geheimnis um ihren leiblichen Vater mit sich herum, trifft dann diesen Typen und dann taucht auch noch Mike wieder auf, der sich geändert zu haben scheint. Kein Wunder, dass sie überfordert ist. Das größte Liebesdrama gab es dann in meinen Augen auch bei Isabel. Und auch wenn ja irgendwie klar ist, wie das ausgeht, war es trotzdem spannend zu lesen. Rorys Geschichte hat mich dagegen weiterhin genervt – wegen ihres Charakters, der so unfassbar anstrengend ist. Wenn sie hinter jedem Satz, den Connor von sich gibt, etwas blödes vermutet und den Mund nicht aufbekommt, wenn sie etwas stört, dann kann das ja auch nichts werden.
Da die Geschichte abwechselnd aus Isabels und aus Rorys Sicht geschrieben wurde, konnte ich mich dann nach Rorys Part gut abregen und Isabels Teil lesen, den ich immer sehr mochte. Allgemein ließ sich das Buch aber weglesen wie nichts. Es lässt sich leicht lesen, ein ideales Urlaubsbuch oder einfach für Regentage, wenn einem aber nach Sommer ist. Das Ende hat mich noch einmal echt überrascht. So vorhersehbar wie gedacht war die Geschichte dann schlussendlich doch nicht. Im ersten Moment war ich etwas verdattert und dachte mir "ernsthaft?!", aber als ich darüber nachgedacht habe, war es doch ein tolles Ende für die Geschichte.
Wer Strawberry Summer mochte, der wird auch an diesem Buch seinen Spaß haben. Man muss es nicht lesen, da Strawberry Summer ein abgeschlossenes Ende hat, aber dieses Ende hat mir als Ende noch einmal besser gefallen. Auch wenn Rory mir zeitweise den letzten Nerv geraubt hat, hat Isabels Part das Ruder wieder rumgerissen, sodass das Buch guten Gewissens von mit weiterempfohlen werden kann.
August 29, 2016
When I finished Rules of Summer, I was so satisfied with the ending, I almost didn’t read Since Last Summer because I didn’t want my perfect vision ruined. While the relationships that I loved in the first book didn’t all necessarily stick around in this book, I love how the friendships still managed to stay strong despite everything Rory and Isabel went through.
I really wish I could give this plot and character development and writing two different ratings. While the plot and the characters were amazing, I felt like the actual writing from Philbin seemed to lack in the second book of this series. There were times where she mentioned she was leaving her bags in her trunk and later zipping them back up? I know that authors don’t have to specify everything, but little details like that make me cringe. Like most of the summery contemporaries that I read, this read like a fanfiction. A well written fanfiction, but still one at that.
Overall, I did enjoy reading this second book and reading about the new relationships that formed and all the drama that kept me hooked. I’m going to give this book 4/5 stars!
I really wish I could give this plot and character development and writing two different ratings. While the plot and the characters were amazing, I felt like the actual writing from Philbin seemed to lack in the second book of this series. There were times where she mentioned she was leaving her bags in her trunk and later zipping them back up? I know that authors don’t have to specify everything, but little details like that make me cringe. Like most of the summery contemporaries that I read, this read like a fanfiction. A well written fanfiction, but still one at that.
Overall, I did enjoy reading this second book and reading about the new relationships that formed and all the drama that kept me hooked. I’m going to give this book 4/5 stars!
June 23, 2014
After blowing thru the first book, I felt I had to get the companion book, but in some ways I was disappointed. Rory was just not the same character as before. She comes across as very unsure, and I liked the spunky Rory better. She is back with the Rules for the summer and interning at a film festival before she starts college. But right away her relationship with Connor that I totally loved before has cooled down to where they are barely agreeing to anything.
I like how Isabel takes a job, partly to get out of the house and the terrible pressure her parents split is causing. I expected her to pull out of her job but she stuck it out and really made me feel like I could like her for a change.
The relationships with Rory and Isabel and the boyfriends was a little contrived and I kinda wish that had been different. But the book does tie things up and answer a few things so you know there isn't another in the series. It's too bad cause I would not mind seeing everyone again next summer.
I like how Isabel takes a job, partly to get out of the house and the terrible pressure her parents split is causing. I expected her to pull out of her job but she stuck it out and really made me feel like I could like her for a change.
The relationships with Rory and Isabel and the boyfriends was a little contrived and I kinda wish that had been different. But the book does tie things up and answer a few things so you know there isn't another in the series. It's too bad cause I would not mind seeing everyone again next summer.
dnf
May 28, 2021i liked the first book at the time. i like remembering i enjoyed it for what it is. when i got this i thought i would fall immediately back in the groove of the story, but i didn’t and have no desire to finish it. it might be really good, but it might not. it didn’t make me super mad, but it wasn’t great at the beginning... so no rating.
October 1, 2015
Also schon ganz nett aber der erste Band war eindeutig besser. Die Story hier kam etwas gewollt dramatisch rüber, aber es war trotzdem nett zu sehen wie sich alle Charakter in einem Jahr entwickelt haben.
October 15, 2013
Loved the first book, I can't wait for this one!!!!
September 11, 2017
While cleaning for the hurricane, I stumbled across my copy of this. I feel bad that it's taken me this long to read it but I suppose better late than never.
Sort of. I'm not really sure who this book was written for. It's a sequel to a book I haven't read, that it sounds like people really, really enjoyed... but it sounds like the big 'ship to come out of the first book is Connor/Rory and that ship falls apart within a few chapters of this book starting. But it doesn't fall apart in a way that feels natural, really. It's more of a, "hey, we survived the school year apart and now that we're back together the author needs us to break up for Reasons and sure why not." This is a bit frustrating for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that there was an actual way to break them up and have it resonate emotionally with those of us not invested from the first book. Rory knows the truth about Isabel's father and keeps it from Connor AND he's having a hard time with his parents breaking up, so he pulls away. He admits as much at the end of the book in the most wooden, boring way ever. I believe cardboard cutouts emote more than Connor does.
I'm hoping this is simply a case of book 2 requiring book 1 to be read previously so that the emotional attachment to characters has already been achieved. As someone who did not read the first book, it falls incredibly flat. But I'd also imagine, the way C/R are set up at the start of the book, that if I'd read book 1, I'd be ticked that this was the follow-up.
Isabel and Rory don't really interact much and when they do, Rory is basically ignoring Isabel and concentrating on either her feelings for Isabel's brother or her feelings for Isabel's boyfriend. Rory, my dear, you are kind of the worst.
I'd have rather spent the summer with Evan and Amelia. Maybe this is better if you've read Rules of Summer, but as a standalone it doesn't work.
Sort of. I'm not really sure who this book was written for. It's a sequel to a book I haven't read, that it sounds like people really, really enjoyed... but it sounds like the big 'ship to come out of the first book is Connor/Rory and that ship falls apart within a few chapters of this book starting. But it doesn't fall apart in a way that feels natural, really. It's more of a, "hey, we survived the school year apart and now that we're back together the author needs us to break up for Reasons and sure why not." This is a bit frustrating for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that there was an actual way to break them up and have it resonate emotionally with those of us not invested from the first book. Rory knows the truth about Isabel's father and keeps it from Connor AND he's having a hard time with his parents breaking up, so he pulls away. He admits as much at the end of the book in the most wooden, boring way ever. I believe cardboard cutouts emote more than Connor does.
I'm hoping this is simply a case of book 2 requiring book 1 to be read previously so that the emotional attachment to characters has already been achieved. As someone who did not read the first book, it falls incredibly flat. But I'd also imagine, the way C/R are set up at the start of the book, that if I'd read book 1, I'd be ticked that this was the follow-up.
Isabel and Rory don't really interact much and when they do, Rory is basically ignoring Isabel and concentrating on either her feelings for Isabel's brother or her feelings for Isabel's boyfriend. Rory, my dear, you are kind of the worst.
I'd have rather spent the summer with Evan and Amelia. Maybe this is better if you've read Rules of Summer, but as a standalone it doesn't work.
November 1, 2019
Okay, so I loved the first book in this Duology, but I am so soo disappointed by the second. The story and the characters from the first book have been just beautiful, cheesily romantic and gave me a cliche Pawn-to-Princess story. But I love these things from time to time and they are just perfect in their unrealistic way.
So the second book tried, in my opinion, to break everything good and fairytale-like apart again to somehow push the story into a "realistic" version/Setting again. The other went back to basic problematics of differences between rich and poor people, forced in a relationship-issues along with pushing in a love triangle that wasn't even necessary at the end, along with a way less than important side story of an internship/work-problem and breaking a fresh friendship. So all in all this made me really mad. She changed up some characters' behavior over 180 degrees so you wouldn't know them anymore and this book made me kind of question why the first book actually happened, as she destroyed everything and the whole story ended barely different than it all began. It was like the sequel of Pocahontas Disney did. Everything you loved about that movie and her true Happy End was wrecked apart in the Second where she found her Happy End with another man. But come on this story was soo unnecessary, like sadly the storyline of this second book. I would have much preferred to have the story end after the first book.
So sorry about my ranting here and I have to say that this is just my opinion and I would still recommend people to read the first book. The second book I will try to just forget as I did with Pocahontas. Besides the failing storyline for me, the writing was still really good and easy to read so I finished this book in a little bit then over a day. So it'S still great to read in summer for a quick read at the beach.
So the second book tried, in my opinion, to break everything good and fairytale-like apart again to somehow push the story into a "realistic" version/Setting again. The other went back to basic problematics of differences between rich and poor people, forced in a relationship-issues along with pushing in a love triangle that wasn't even necessary at the end, along with a way less than important side story of an internship/work-problem and breaking a fresh friendship. So all in all this made me really mad. She changed up some characters' behavior over 180 degrees so you wouldn't know them anymore and this book made me kind of question why the first book actually happened, as she destroyed everything and the whole story ended barely different than it all began. It was like the sequel of Pocahontas Disney did. Everything you loved about that movie and her true Happy End was wrecked apart in the Second where she found her Happy End with another man. But come on this story was soo unnecessary, like sadly the storyline of this second book. I would have much preferred to have the story end after the first book.
So sorry about my ranting here and I have to say that this is just my opinion and I would still recommend people to read the first book. The second book I will try to just forget as I did with Pocahontas. Besides the failing storyline for me, the writing was still really good and easy to read so I finished this book in a little bit then over a day. So it'S still great to read in summer for a quick read at the beach.
July 6, 2023
Klappentext
Ein neuer Sommer beginnt für Rory und Isabel – mit einer kleinen Neuerung: Rory ist fest mit Connor Rule zusammen und deshalb als Hausgast in den Hamptons. Und genau das bringt Komplikationen mit sich, denn irgendwie scheint Connor ein Problem damit zu haben, dass Rory nicht mehr für seine Familie arbeitet. Isabel dagegen arbeitet zur Überraschung aller als Kellnerin, um einen süßen Typen zu beeindrucken – irgendwie muss sie ja über ihre Affäre mit Mike hinwegkommen. Das klappt ganz gut, bis Rory auf Isabels Neuen trifft ... Und Isabel wieder auf Mike.
Meine Meinung
Es ist bereits eine Weile her, dass ich den letzten Band gelesen habe. Das Buch erzählt aus der Sicht von Rory und Isabel und spielt ein Jahr nach den Ereignissen des letzten Bandes, in dem sich Rory und Connor Rule lieben gelernt haben und Isabel Mike nicht vergessen konnte. Es ist eine Geschichte über ein Sommer, über Liebe und Erwartungen und Geheimnisse, die in der vornehmen Gesellschaft gewahrt werden müssen. Doch genau das ist es, was am Ende Rory und Connor voneinander entfernt, während Isabel versucht, sich von ihrer Familie und Mike zu entfernen. Die Geschichte an sich ist recht vorhersehbar, weil es kaum überraschende Wendungen und Entwicklungen gibt. Der Schreibstil ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen.
Bewertung
Eine gelungene Fortsetzung und ein gelungener Abschluss, der Rory und Isabel ein wenig über das Erwachsenwerden und Erwartungen und Liebe begleitet. Das Buch konnte mich ähnlich gut unterhalten wie der Vorgänger und hat mir gut gefallen, daher gibt es verdiente
3 von 5 Würmchen
Ein neuer Sommer beginnt für Rory und Isabel – mit einer kleinen Neuerung: Rory ist fest mit Connor Rule zusammen und deshalb als Hausgast in den Hamptons. Und genau das bringt Komplikationen mit sich, denn irgendwie scheint Connor ein Problem damit zu haben, dass Rory nicht mehr für seine Familie arbeitet. Isabel dagegen arbeitet zur Überraschung aller als Kellnerin, um einen süßen Typen zu beeindrucken – irgendwie muss sie ja über ihre Affäre mit Mike hinwegkommen. Das klappt ganz gut, bis Rory auf Isabels Neuen trifft ... Und Isabel wieder auf Mike.
Meine Meinung
Es ist bereits eine Weile her, dass ich den letzten Band gelesen habe. Das Buch erzählt aus der Sicht von Rory und Isabel und spielt ein Jahr nach den Ereignissen des letzten Bandes, in dem sich Rory und Connor Rule lieben gelernt haben und Isabel Mike nicht vergessen konnte. Es ist eine Geschichte über ein Sommer, über Liebe und Erwartungen und Geheimnisse, die in der vornehmen Gesellschaft gewahrt werden müssen. Doch genau das ist es, was am Ende Rory und Connor voneinander entfernt, während Isabel versucht, sich von ihrer Familie und Mike zu entfernen. Die Geschichte an sich ist recht vorhersehbar, weil es kaum überraschende Wendungen und Entwicklungen gibt. Der Schreibstil ist angenehm und flüssig zu lesen.
Bewertung
Eine gelungene Fortsetzung und ein gelungener Abschluss, der Rory und Isabel ein wenig über das Erwachsenwerden und Erwartungen und Liebe begleitet. Das Buch konnte mich ähnlich gut unterhalten wie der Vorgänger und hat mir gut gefallen, daher gibt es verdiente
3 von 5 Würmchen
April 30, 2020
Now this story I was intrigued to picking up. Having read and enjoyed the first book, Rules of Summer, I wanted to find out what happened next with the characters.
Again, we follow Rory as she returns to the Rules' house in the Hamptons but this time she is not going back to work. She is going back because she is part of the family. Interestingly, what I enjoyed the most in this story was following Isabel as she grows as a character and discovers that she may not be over her past love...
There were no surprises in this story and I do have to say that I was a little disappointed by what happens with Rory in this one but could understand where that had come from. I was hoping for most from this story but it really was just an extension of the first story but with a bit more drama. I did enjoy reading it to follow more about the characters but wished there was more to the story.
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
Again, we follow Rory as she returns to the Rules' house in the Hamptons but this time she is not going back to work. She is going back because she is part of the family. Interestingly, what I enjoyed the most in this story was following Isabel as she grows as a character and discovers that she may not be over her past love...
There were no surprises in this story and I do have to say that I was a little disappointed by what happens with Rory in this one but could understand where that had come from. I was hoping for most from this story but it really was just an extension of the first story but with a bit more drama. I did enjoy reading it to follow more about the characters but wished there was more to the story.
For more reviews, please check out the link below:
Debra's Book Cafe
Debs :-)
March 29, 2022
just unnecessary if I’m being honest I only read it because of Mike and Isabel and my curiosity about their relationship. didn’t care much about the other characters..
the beginning was repetitive of the first book and really gave me nothing. This book has a lot of drama that seems forced and I thought Rory’s actions were really random especially when it comes to the topic boys. I also felt no connection between her and what has his name again?? Isabel’s ex boyfriend Evan which leads to the next point. You just don’t do stuff like dating your best friends ex and kissing him while you’re in a relationship and she is still with him.
This also applies to the first book: sometimes the plot felt super artificial with all the coincidences how Rory & Isabel met their love interests.
Still I liked the writing and some parts of the story for instance how mrs rule learned to live outside her perfect bubble and how she started to appreciate Rory more for what she is.
This book just didn’t feel realistic at all.
the beginning was repetitive of the first book and really gave me nothing. This book has a lot of drama that seems forced and I thought Rory’s actions were really random especially when it comes to the topic boys. I also felt no connection between her and what has his name again?? Isabel’s ex boyfriend Evan which leads to the next point. You just don’t do stuff like dating your best friends ex and kissing him while you’re in a relationship and she is still with him.
This also applies to the first book: sometimes the plot felt super artificial with all the coincidences how Rory & Isabel met their love interests.
Still I liked the writing and some parts of the story for instance how mrs rule learned to live outside her perfect bubble and how she started to appreciate Rory more for what she is.
This book just didn’t feel realistic at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 29, 2022
This book was not as good as the first one. I loved rules of summer so naturally I thought I'd enjoy this one just as much, but unfortunately I didn't. There were many MANY moments where I was screaming at the characters because it didn't make much sense to me. This book contains mainly the cheating trope so if you don't like that you may not like it. One of the main things that I liked about the first book was Rory and how she was kind of innocent but in this book that's not the case. I also didn't really enjoy the ending, I felt that it needed something more. I was able to read to this book decently fast so I don't feel like my time was wasted too much. Would reccomend if you need a quick read but the first book was overall so much better.
May 13, 2024
I really enjoyed the first book of this series. The romance between Rory & Connor was pure and the one with Isabel & Mike was electric which got me really excited for the second one… Well, after reading the second book, I can truly say that I should’ve stopped reading after the first book. Rory was all over the place in this one, sleeping with Isabel’s boyfriend and completely disrespecting her friendship with her, for then telling Evan that she doesn’t want to be with him? I mean really? Then Isabel being so on & off with Mike, got me annoyed with her as well. Honestly if I could recommend people that read the first book and liked it (like I did), I would just stop there and not spoil the rest by this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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