What do you think?
Rate this book
Indian Summer
Some memories are best forgotten . . . Others won’t ever go away.
For Kit, the quiet Devon village she visits every year is the perfect retreat. But this summer, she arrives with a heart in turmoil: years have passed since Kit last saw Jake, but now he has written asking to meet again.
For Mungo, the village is simply home and the ideal getaway for friends, like Kit, even if he aches at the old memories they bring – and the secrets they stir in him.
As the summer unfolds, hidden truths are uncovered that will shatter the sleepy community. But those involved soon realize that the only way to move forward might be to confront the past . . .
For Kit, the quiet Devon village she visits every year is the perfect retreat. But this summer, she arrives with a heart in turmoil: years have passed since Kit last saw Jake, but now he has written asking to meet again.
For Mungo, the village is simply home and the ideal getaway for friends, like Kit, even if he aches at the old memories they bring – and the secrets they stir in him.
As the summer unfolds, hidden truths are uncovered that will shatter the sleepy community. But those involved soon realize that the only way to move forward might be to confront the past . . .
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2014
116 people are currently reading
710 people want to read
About the author
Marcia Willett
66 books355 followersMarcia Willett began her career as a novelist when she was fifty years old. Since that first novel Marcia has written twenty more under her own name as well as a number of short stories. She has also written four books under the pseudonym "Willa Marsh", and is published in more than sixteen countries.
Marcia Willett's early life was devoted to the ballet, but her dreams of becoming a ballerina ended when she grew out of the classical proportions required. She had always loved books, and a family crisis made her take up a new career as a novelist - a decision she had never regretted.
Marcia Willett's early life was devoted to the ballet, but her dreams of becoming a ballerina ended when she grew out of the classical proportions required. She had always loved books, and a family crisis made her take up a new career as a novelist - a decision she had never regretted.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
June 25, 2017
Retired actor Sir Mungo resides in the quiet countryside of Devon, England. He lives on a home on the estate owned by his brother Archie and his wife Camilla. This property was handed down by their parents disproportionately due to Mungo’s father being unhappy with Mungo’s career choices and lifestyle. Archie and Camilla are facing financial issues and have started to take on tenants. Some of these tenants have interesting backgrounds and become intertwined in the story.
One of Mungo’s oldest friend’s, Kit, is staying with him for the summer. Their friendship began when they were both starting their careers in the theatre. Over the years their relationship bloomed as they shared success and failures. Kit is seeking advice about a decision to reconnect with a long lost love. He is now a widower and for once the time seems right to restart their relationship.
The book is about friendships that survive the test of time. Sometimes the bonds between lifelong friends are deeper than family. I enjoyed this nicely paced book by Marcia Willett.
One of Mungo’s oldest friend’s, Kit, is staying with him for the summer. Their friendship began when they were both starting their careers in the theatre. Over the years their relationship bloomed as they shared success and failures. Kit is seeking advice about a decision to reconnect with a long lost love. He is now a widower and for once the time seems right to restart their relationship.
The book is about friendships that survive the test of time. Sometimes the bonds between lifelong friends are deeper than family. I enjoyed this nicely paced book by Marcia Willett.
July 7, 2017
ndian Summer by Marcia Willett is set in the English countryside in the middle of a hot summer. The sights and sounds of the local farming area delight and please the senses. With an amazing group of mostly very ordinary characters, it was a rather surprisingly tension filled read.
There is quite a cast of characters living in this small place, Mungo the man who has made his money in acting and directing. And while he is at it, just delights in directing quite a few scenes in the lives of the people around him. His brother Archie lives on the family farm, but now that they are all older there is the worry of money to keep the farm up and the house Archie lives in is rotting away with no money to repair it.
Kit a long time friend of Mungo has come down to stay with him, she has had one main love in her life and was too slow in giving her commitment and he moved on. Yet now Jake is free and wondering is Kit still free after all these years. ( He has children and young grandchildren so we are talking lots of years.)
Emma is a young mother with a young child and a 5 year old. Her husband is overseas in service and she is looking for a little excitement. But... she takes on more than she can chew and I felt the tension around this, reading on to see what was going to happen. I really felt for the 5 year old who knew something was up but not quite what was causing his disquiet.
Then we have two old farmers who have worked the farm and live in one of its cottages. They have been loyal friends to Archie and Mungo, and are still very much part of the local community. Nearby is also a writer - James, endeavouring to write a second book, having self published a first. The whole drama that goes on around him totally escapes him and he thinks he is staying in a very dull place.
Is it all as quiet as it seems or ... is there far more under the surface. The short answer is yes but you'll have to read to find out exactly what.
There is quite a cast of characters living in this small place, Mungo the man who has made his money in acting and directing. And while he is at it, just delights in directing quite a few scenes in the lives of the people around him. His brother Archie lives on the family farm, but now that they are all older there is the worry of money to keep the farm up and the house Archie lives in is rotting away with no money to repair it.
Kit a long time friend of Mungo has come down to stay with him, she has had one main love in her life and was too slow in giving her commitment and he moved on. Yet now Jake is free and wondering is Kit still free after all these years. ( He has children and young grandchildren so we are talking lots of years.)
Emma is a young mother with a young child and a 5 year old. Her husband is overseas in service and she is looking for a little excitement. But... she takes on more than she can chew and I felt the tension around this, reading on to see what was going to happen. I really felt for the 5 year old who knew something was up but not quite what was causing his disquiet.
Then we have two old farmers who have worked the farm and live in one of its cottages. They have been loyal friends to Archie and Mungo, and are still very much part of the local community. Nearby is also a writer - James, endeavouring to write a second book, having self published a first. The whole drama that goes on around him totally escapes him and he thinks he is staying in a very dull place.
Is it all as quiet as it seems or ... is there far more under the surface. The short answer is yes but you'll have to read to find out exactly what.
June 27, 2017
Thanks to St. Martin's for offering me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review. This has not influenced my opinion regarding the book.
This was the first time I read Mrs. Willett's writing, and I'm really happy that I got a chance to experience her writing style, which I enjoyed a lot. I really loved how she masterfully brought the setting to life, as well as how much each of the characters jumped off the page. I found the pacing well-done and the plot really interesting. This is a great adult-lit read about friendship if you're looking for such book, I recommend this one.
This was the first time I read Mrs. Willett's writing, and I'm really happy that I got a chance to experience her writing style, which I enjoyed a lot. I really loved how she masterfully brought the setting to life, as well as how much each of the characters jumped off the page. I found the pacing well-done and the plot really interesting. This is a great adult-lit read about friendship if you're looking for such book, I recommend this one.
September 13, 2014
A story called Indian Summer, set in the Devon countryside in August is one that you just know is going to be evocative, and this one most definitely is, it puts you right there with the descriptions of the area and the people. I could almost taste a Devon cream tea as I was reading it. The characters are mostly in their autumn years and I really fell in love with them, especially Mungo – a retired actor, most definitely a “luvvy” described as being “versatile” in his sexual favours, he loves nothing more than to entertain friends, especially his dear old friend Kit. Kit is visiting him for advice – she has a dilemma to face and needs his input.
We also meet his brother and sister in law, Archie and Camilla – owners of the farming estate which is now struggling to make ends meet and they are living in a state of genteel poverty. We also meet their tenants, a pair of widowed brothers Philip and Billy, struggling to work their farm now that Bily has been knocked down by a stroke; Emma and her young family who have come to live in one of the cottages whilst her military husband is on a tour and, finally, James. James is a self published author (and doesn’t he want everyone to know it) who is staying in the area to set the tone for his next novel. I loved James, he really put a smile on my face!
Another very important member of the cast is Izzy – dead for a long time, yet very much alive in the hearts of her friends. She still has a very important part to play in the book, and will be central to a secret – one that must not come to light.
It is a very gentle book, almost cosy, the story of friendships that go back decades and the bonds between the characters. They will do anything for each other, including making sure that their secrets remain hidden. There is an element of mystery and suspense, but only a small one, this is certainly not a thriller by any means, it is just a really lovely story about a fantastic group of characters. It is a very relaxing, easy to read book, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Many thanks to the publishers for the review copy.
We also meet his brother and sister in law, Archie and Camilla – owners of the farming estate which is now struggling to make ends meet and they are living in a state of genteel poverty. We also meet their tenants, a pair of widowed brothers Philip and Billy, struggling to work their farm now that Bily has been knocked down by a stroke; Emma and her young family who have come to live in one of the cottages whilst her military husband is on a tour and, finally, James. James is a self published author (and doesn’t he want everyone to know it) who is staying in the area to set the tone for his next novel. I loved James, he really put a smile on my face!
Another very important member of the cast is Izzy – dead for a long time, yet very much alive in the hearts of her friends. She still has a very important part to play in the book, and will be central to a secret – one that must not come to light.
It is a very gentle book, almost cosy, the story of friendships that go back decades and the bonds between the characters. They will do anything for each other, including making sure that their secrets remain hidden. There is an element of mystery and suspense, but only a small one, this is certainly not a thriller by any means, it is just a really lovely story about a fantastic group of characters. It is a very relaxing, easy to read book, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Many thanks to the publishers for the review copy.
July 5, 2017
How odd love is, thinks Kit. Like a virus attacking us when we’re low.
Plenty of memories swirl around this collection of friends, from love that never was, to unexplained disappearances and lonely guests that may step into a mess of mistakes. Old age seems like a disguise, so many of us think everything is finished past the first blush of youth. But there are dark troubling buried secrets for some, years of wear and tear, first loves that got away only to reappear when you feel so ridiculously worn down. Friendships are richer for their mileage, as with Mungo (retired actor, famous) and Kit, visiting him in the Devonshire countryside. Long ago Mungo was with Izzy (who is no longer living) but it was a cover. Izzy was involved with another man, Robert and though their history is dusty, what happened between them will play a vital role in this novel. For Kit, thespian Mungo will again direct, in a sense, by helping guide her to a rekindled flame for Jake, now a widower and free to love her. But is it too late for all that?
This is a bit like a summer breeze, with a hint of trouble. There is a farm owned by Mungo’s brother Archie. Archie and his wife Camilla are having trouble staying afloat, the threat of selling creates complications for others, due to a dark secret rooted deep in the past and the land. On this land too, are the renters- Emma with her family, her little boy Joe missing his father away serving with the AF as much as military wife Emma is lonely and hungry for affection and attention. Soon Marcus enters the scene, a surprise since he too is supposed to be serving elsewhere. Marcus is struggling with his own family problems, a separation. There is an attraction- both are yearning for different things, could it be so bad to have something for herself? What exactly are Marcus’s motives? It’s not as easy to seduce a woman with her children around. How does young Joe experience a budding forbidden relationship between his mother and another man? Will she go through with it? James is there to write, in quiet peace, without distraction. He just has to figure out how to write from a woman’s perspective, which apparently according to his wife, he is terrible at. He watches, he collects everything he sees, ideas percolate in his creative mind, and he uses his surroundings to write. What is the deal with the weird guy he keeps seeing around?
These are brief moments in the lives of all the characters. Some face difficult times financially, others are weighted down by guilt, some are there for escape but all come together to make a wonderful summer story. It is a quiet story without anything too wild, but I felt the confusion inside the hearts of the characters is something we can all relate to. Kit having a second life of sorts is something we should see more of in fiction. You still have a pulse as you age!
A nice read with the countryside as setting.
Available Now
St. Martin’s Press
Thomas Dunne Books
Plenty of memories swirl around this collection of friends, from love that never was, to unexplained disappearances and lonely guests that may step into a mess of mistakes. Old age seems like a disguise, so many of us think everything is finished past the first blush of youth. But there are dark troubling buried secrets for some, years of wear and tear, first loves that got away only to reappear when you feel so ridiculously worn down. Friendships are richer for their mileage, as with Mungo (retired actor, famous) and Kit, visiting him in the Devonshire countryside. Long ago Mungo was with Izzy (who is no longer living) but it was a cover. Izzy was involved with another man, Robert and though their history is dusty, what happened between them will play a vital role in this novel. For Kit, thespian Mungo will again direct, in a sense, by helping guide her to a rekindled flame for Jake, now a widower and free to love her. But is it too late for all that?
This is a bit like a summer breeze, with a hint of trouble. There is a farm owned by Mungo’s brother Archie. Archie and his wife Camilla are having trouble staying afloat, the threat of selling creates complications for others, due to a dark secret rooted deep in the past and the land. On this land too, are the renters- Emma with her family, her little boy Joe missing his father away serving with the AF as much as military wife Emma is lonely and hungry for affection and attention. Soon Marcus enters the scene, a surprise since he too is supposed to be serving elsewhere. Marcus is struggling with his own family problems, a separation. There is an attraction- both are yearning for different things, could it be so bad to have something for herself? What exactly are Marcus’s motives? It’s not as easy to seduce a woman with her children around. How does young Joe experience a budding forbidden relationship between his mother and another man? Will she go through with it? James is there to write, in quiet peace, without distraction. He just has to figure out how to write from a woman’s perspective, which apparently according to his wife, he is terrible at. He watches, he collects everything he sees, ideas percolate in his creative mind, and he uses his surroundings to write. What is the deal with the weird guy he keeps seeing around?
These are brief moments in the lives of all the characters. Some face difficult times financially, others are weighted down by guilt, some are there for escape but all come together to make a wonderful summer story. It is a quiet story without anything too wild, but I felt the confusion inside the hearts of the characters is something we can all relate to. Kit having a second life of sorts is something we should see more of in fiction. You still have a pulse as you age!
A nice read with the countryside as setting.
Available Now
St. Martin’s Press
Thomas Dunne Books
December 3, 2017
An enjoyable novel with a quirky and delightful cast of characters. It takes place in the English countryside outside of London, and centers around a farm with family, friends, and some tenants all in residence. As the characters stories unfold, you realize that their lives are all intertwined in one way or the other, that long buried secrets are slowly coming to life, and that they’re all going to be affected in someway. There’s a little mystery, a little humor, and some very good character development, as well as descriptions of the English countryside. Made me want to curl up with a big pot of earl grey tea while chewing on cakes and biscuits and read all day! Delightful.
May 12, 2015
Marcia Willets book, An Indian Summer was a treasure to read. A gorgeous setting in a beautiful rural village in Devon and a brilliant cast of characters. You could quite easily imagine yourself moving in and getting to know everyone! The time of year just wraps you in a dream of summer- perfect for a drizzly Easter weekend!
Sir Mungo, a retired actor, treats his home as a retreat for his friends in London. His old friend Kit, is visiting. She has a decision to make and is hoping that Sir Mungo will help. She has a letter from a past love. Many secrets are uncovered with the different character throughout the book.
Many friendships are explored and it really does feel like a cosy read wrapped in a fleecy blanket. I’d love to read more books by this author!
With many thanks to Random House Uk, Transworld and Net Galley for a copy of this book. It won't be the last Marcia Willet I read.
Sir Mungo, a retired actor, treats his home as a retreat for his friends in London. His old friend Kit, is visiting. She has a decision to make and is hoping that Sir Mungo will help. She has a letter from a past love. Many secrets are uncovered with the different character throughout the book.
Many friendships are explored and it really does feel like a cosy read wrapped in a fleecy blanket. I’d love to read more books by this author!
With many thanks to Random House Uk, Transworld and Net Galley for a copy of this book. It won't be the last Marcia Willet I read.
July 14, 2017
3.5 stars
This is my first opportunity to read a book by Marcia Willett, and it was enjoyable! Indian Summer is a gentle-paced family stories/mystery. Comparable to maybe Rosamunde Pilcher with a modern twist or Maeve Binchy. There is a colorful cast of characters here who are anything but predictable. Relationships of all sorts seem to be the focus in this book. Sir Mungo is an ex-actor who has retired to his family property in Devon. His brother and wife live there too, and although they've led more stable lives, still have a few secrets. Cottages on the estate are also rented out, and it was fun seeing how their lives intertwine with the family's. Mungo's London friends love popping over for visits and bring drama and excitement to the otherwise quiet countryside. As the summer passes, though, the past comes rushing to the front with it's mysteries and secrets. How will their relationships hold up after they are forced to confront the past? Beautiful descriptions of the setting! Recommended to those who enjoy more gentle-type family/mystery stories
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Dunne Books and Marcia Willett for the opportunity to read and honestly review the ARC!**
This is my first opportunity to read a book by Marcia Willett, and it was enjoyable! Indian Summer is a gentle-paced family stories/mystery. Comparable to maybe Rosamunde Pilcher with a modern twist or Maeve Binchy. There is a colorful cast of characters here who are anything but predictable. Relationships of all sorts seem to be the focus in this book. Sir Mungo is an ex-actor who has retired to his family property in Devon. His brother and wife live there too, and although they've led more stable lives, still have a few secrets. Cottages on the estate are also rented out, and it was fun seeing how their lives intertwine with the family's. Mungo's London friends love popping over for visits and bring drama and excitement to the otherwise quiet countryside. As the summer passes, though, the past comes rushing to the front with it's mysteries and secrets. How will their relationships hold up after they are forced to confront the past? Beautiful descriptions of the setting! Recommended to those who enjoy more gentle-type family/mystery stories
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Thomas Dunne Books and Marcia Willett for the opportunity to read and honestly review the ARC!**
November 2, 2014
I love a book that is full of secrets and intrigue and just keeps you guessing on what it is that is going to be revealed.
This story is set around the lovely place of Devon, which if you ever visited the lovely countryside of Devon you can picture the characters there whilst the book plays out its story.
I can't say this is the best book I have read by this author Marcia Willett, it was a very slow burner, but it did quicken up pace halfway through.
That said, I still enjoyed it.
I would like to thank Random House UK, Transworld Publishers via Net Galley for allowing me to read and review this book.
June 11, 2017
A novel set among the peaceful filling hills of Devon, England. A new author for me and I will read her again. Her characters brought right into the story. The descriptions brought the area into my home.a Secrets have been hidden for years but at this time events are threatening them coming to light. Kit is visiting Sir Mungo to relieve her heart. An old love has surfaced again and asked to see her again. Not knowing what she desires, Kit is hiding out in the area. Mungo, brother, Tom has been having problems holding the family's acreage together due to current cost and aging. Tom has rented out a refurbished cottage to the wife of the soldier who is on combat duty in the east. This adds much to the story. Mungo needs to convince Tom to sell him the orchard to prevent secrets coming alight. Will he succeed? I highly recommend the book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from St Martin's Press through NetGalley for an honest review.I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from St Martin's Press through NetGalley for an honest review.I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
July 7, 2017
Thank you to St. Martins Press for the ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book was offered to me by SMP to review and I'll admit I wasn't really interested in it just based on the title or cover art but as they say "don't judge a book by its cover". Surprisingly, the book is very well written and though it is written from multiple points of view you could almost read just one characters POV and it would still make for a great book. The only reason I marked this as 3 stars is because there isn't really a plot point to this book. There is supposed to be a "mystery" of sorts in the book but it's very obvious what happened early on in the book. I enjoyed the writing very much but at the end of the book I didn't really feel anything because there wasn't that build up/climax/resolution in the book.
This book was offered to me by SMP to review and I'll admit I wasn't really interested in it just based on the title or cover art but as they say "don't judge a book by its cover". Surprisingly, the book is very well written and though it is written from multiple points of view you could almost read just one characters POV and it would still make for a great book. The only reason I marked this as 3 stars is because there isn't really a plot point to this book. There is supposed to be a "mystery" of sorts in the book but it's very obvious what happened early on in the book. I enjoyed the writing very much but at the end of the book I didn't really feel anything because there wasn't that build up/climax/resolution in the book.
July 26, 2017
Indian Summer is a lovely story of old friendships that stand the test of time. The writing flows and Willett describes an England you can imagine yourself in. She transports you directly to the Devon countryside and into the memories and lives of Sir Mungo and his family, his old chum Kit, and more. You become invested in their lives and feel a need to know what will happen next. With these likeable characters and the cozy location of this novel, grab your tea and get comfortable. This is a book to settle in with.
Thank you to Saint Martin's Press for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to Saint Martin's Press for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2024
Call that a 3.5. I really enjoyed the characterization and the style, but the plot didn't feel cohesive enough to knock it up to a 4 or a 5. Here's my complete review:
https://bookadept.com/2024/10/03/old-...
https://bookadept.com/2024/10/03/old-...
October 3, 2017
Very visual and had me hooked. More details to come
January 22, 2022
This was an easy and adorable read.. it was like a big cuddly blanket, perfect for those who aren’t feeling themselves and what to cheer themselves up. Definitely cheered me up!
January 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this book!! I enjoyed revisiting Kit and Jake from the Chadwick series and also meeting several more characters, all so fun and interesting.
September 26, 2014
I love the cover of this book, the feeling of late summer it at once sparks in me. That feeling remained with me as I read, especially with the descriptions of Devon – just beautiful.
The characters, though, more than the setting are what bring this book alive. There are several stories interwoven here, each as compelling as the next – the actor/director Sir Mungo who aches with unrequited love; his fiend, Kit, who’s struggling to believe she can finally requite her love; the two brothers frightened of the truth coming out; the young Army wife on the cusp of an affair – and more besides. It’s quite a cast of people to keep up with, but each is vivid and intriguing.I especially love the parts told from the little boy Joe’s perspective; they are quite beautiful for their innocent point of view.
Dialogue is integral to the book, and I felt at times like I could visualise the action on a movie screen. Indeed, Sir Mungo and his eye for directing and characters brings this element to the fore. It would make an excellent film, I think – and I would especially enjoy footage of the many plays touched upon, and of the actress Izzy, whose loss resonates through the book for several characters. But then, would James, the eager self-published writer, quite work outside of the pages of the book? He’s a brilliant character for drawing attention to the process of writing; for reminding us of what the author herself is doing in the story. He’s loveable and endearing – I was left wishing I could read his manuscript.
The past is of integral importance to the book, and it stands out so starkly against the present tense narration. There’s also a thread of darkness running through the narrative – an event that happened many years ago that is haunting characters still, and a near-relationship turning into something unpleasant, something threatening. For me, this was the best element of the book – I felt quite chilled in places. But the author strikes just the right balance so that the darkness does not drown out the light.
Overall, it’s a book that pulls you in, and keeps you turning the pages until you can sit back and see the cohesive whole with satisfaction. It’s ideal if you like stories with people and the many kinds of relationships they form at the heart; and is a must-read if, like me, you love rural Devon.
The characters, though, more than the setting are what bring this book alive. There are several stories interwoven here, each as compelling as the next – the actor/director Sir Mungo who aches with unrequited love; his fiend, Kit, who’s struggling to believe she can finally requite her love; the two brothers frightened of the truth coming out; the young Army wife on the cusp of an affair – and more besides. It’s quite a cast of people to keep up with, but each is vivid and intriguing.I especially love the parts told from the little boy Joe’s perspective; they are quite beautiful for their innocent point of view.
Dialogue is integral to the book, and I felt at times like I could visualise the action on a movie screen. Indeed, Sir Mungo and his eye for directing and characters brings this element to the fore. It would make an excellent film, I think – and I would especially enjoy footage of the many plays touched upon, and of the actress Izzy, whose loss resonates through the book for several characters. But then, would James, the eager self-published writer, quite work outside of the pages of the book? He’s a brilliant character for drawing attention to the process of writing; for reminding us of what the author herself is doing in the story. He’s loveable and endearing – I was left wishing I could read his manuscript.
The past is of integral importance to the book, and it stands out so starkly against the present tense narration. There’s also a thread of darkness running through the narrative – an event that happened many years ago that is haunting characters still, and a near-relationship turning into something unpleasant, something threatening. For me, this was the best element of the book – I felt quite chilled in places. But the author strikes just the right balance so that the darkness does not drown out the light.
Overall, it’s a book that pulls you in, and keeps you turning the pages until you can sit back and see the cohesive whole with satisfaction. It’s ideal if you like stories with people and the many kinds of relationships they form at the heart; and is a must-read if, like me, you love rural Devon.
February 12, 2018
I was intrigued by the plot summary, but I could not get into this book. I found the introduction of characters to be confusing and most were of one-dimension. Because of this, the plot was slow to develop. As I read, I kept thinking that there was more to the plot, but there wasn't. About ⅔'s of the way through, I skimmed the rest and didn't see anything that compelled me to go back and read in-depth.
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway and thankful for the opportunity to read and review.
I received this as a Goodreads Giveaway and thankful for the opportunity to read and review.
October 18, 2023
“The August sunshine is hot and Mungo has slung his jersey around his waist, tying the sleeves in a loose knot. He stands for a moment stretching in the warm dry air, snuffing up the scents of new-cut grass and honeysuckle. […] As usual, he is aware of the past all around him” — Indian Summer by Marcia Willett
Can the past ever stay well and truly buried or is it better to confront our ghosts?
For Sir Mungo, the sleepy Devon valley he calls home is the perfect escape from the busy London life he leads as a celebrated actor. His brother and his wife live close by and the village is near enough to the city that old friends often nip up for a visit.
When Kit Chadwick arrives she is troubled by a letter that she has just received from Jake, her first and only love. Twenty years after she lost him, for the last time, Kit is still single, because ultimately no one could live up her feelings for Jake. Now Jake wants to meet, assumably to pick up where they left off, and Kit needs Mungo’s help deciding what to do.
Kit isn’t the only person who comes to Mungo with their tricky problems. The valley might be quiet, but there is a lot more going on beneath the surface.
Interwoven with memories of the past there is quite a bit of intrigue and suspense in this otherwise gentle, cosy read. I sped through this book, which is usually a good sign for me, as I tend to have many books on the go at once.
The only major issue I had with this book is that the scenes from the past between Kit and Jake are (from what I can tell) directly lifted from an earlier book. (I think it was Holding On , but I could be wrong.) I find this kind of thing very annoying. There are other ways of imparting that information to the reader. Rewrite the scene from another perspective or, even better, paraphrase it. We don’t need all the details, the emotions behind what happened are the important part, as far as I’m concerned.
I had the same problem with another of Marcia Willett’s books, The Prodigal Wife , which had multiple scenes lifted directly from Winning Through . That was much more annoying because the sections were longer and came from the book just before in the Chadwick Family Chronicles.
As you may have noticed from the quotation at the outset, this is one of Marcia Willett’s books that is written in the present tense. I’m not a fan of present tense being used for these cosier books. I do think the present tense creates a feeling of immediacy in a story, which can work well in thrillers. In my opinion, some of Marcia Willett’s books suffer greatly from the use of the present tense. I’m thinking of Seven Days in Summer specifically, but there are definitely others. It worked all right in this one, but I still think it would read better in the past tense.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, but I didn’t feel as emotionally invested in the characters of this one as I have with some of Marcia Willett’s other books. It may be that this busier plot didn’t allow enough room for character development with this large of a cast.
Can the past ever stay well and truly buried or is it better to confront our ghosts?
For Sir Mungo, the sleepy Devon valley he calls home is the perfect escape from the busy London life he leads as a celebrated actor. His brother and his wife live close by and the village is near enough to the city that old friends often nip up for a visit.
When Kit Chadwick arrives she is troubled by a letter that she has just received from Jake, her first and only love. Twenty years after she lost him, for the last time, Kit is still single, because ultimately no one could live up her feelings for Jake. Now Jake wants to meet, assumably to pick up where they left off, and Kit needs Mungo’s help deciding what to do.
Kit isn’t the only person who comes to Mungo with their tricky problems. The valley might be quiet, but there is a lot more going on beneath the surface.
Interwoven with memories of the past there is quite a bit of intrigue and suspense in this otherwise gentle, cosy read. I sped through this book, which is usually a good sign for me, as I tend to have many books on the go at once.
The only major issue I had with this book is that the scenes from the past between Kit and Jake are (from what I can tell) directly lifted from an earlier book. (I think it was Holding On , but I could be wrong.) I find this kind of thing very annoying. There are other ways of imparting that information to the reader. Rewrite the scene from another perspective or, even better, paraphrase it. We don’t need all the details, the emotions behind what happened are the important part, as far as I’m concerned.
I had the same problem with another of Marcia Willett’s books, The Prodigal Wife , which had multiple scenes lifted directly from Winning Through . That was much more annoying because the sections were longer and came from the book just before in the Chadwick Family Chronicles.
As you may have noticed from the quotation at the outset, this is one of Marcia Willett’s books that is written in the present tense. I’m not a fan of present tense being used for these cosier books. I do think the present tense creates a feeling of immediacy in a story, which can work well in thrillers. In my opinion, some of Marcia Willett’s books suffer greatly from the use of the present tense. I’m thinking of Seven Days in Summer specifically, but there are definitely others. It worked all right in this one, but I still think it would read better in the past tense.
Overall, this was an entertaining read, but I didn’t feel as emotionally invested in the characters of this one as I have with some of Marcia Willett’s other books. It may be that this busier plot didn’t allow enough room for character development with this large of a cast.
December 13, 2017
Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes
Indian Summer is my first novel by this author and I’m sure it won’t be my last. Set in the countryside of Devon the scenery plays a big part in the story- as we delve into the past for the backstory it’s a key factor that the setting for the plot of the novel remains the same, despite the passage of time. I even found that it was a parallel for some of the characters’ plot lines.
Admittedly I found the first few pages difficult- I didn’t immediately warm to Sir Mungo and though I tried, I didn’t relate to him at first. I’m glad I persevered though because Mungo’s warmth did come across and I was invested in his history and his future so much. As a young actor he seemed to have frequently returned to the family home on holiday, bringing friends and treating them to the country life, a rural escape etc. However, now retired, he appeared to be staying longer and placing more emphasis on this natural escape to being his more permanent home.
Though initially focussed on Mungo, the author brought in old friends and new friends so that the plot kept expanding for Mungo, his brother and sister-in-law. Each persona had an intricate story of their own and sometimes I wasn’t sure how they would all match up. I liked the different generations that Willett explored - typical of a village in the countryside, you find all sorts of people amongst the ever changing fields, sky and wildlife. I was fascinated by the mystery of the past that was hinted at throughout (and mercifully is explained in the end) but I almost found it distracted from the newer relationships and found its conclusion a smidge anti-climactic- hopefully that’s just me.
Thank you to St.Martin's Press for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
Indian Summer is my first novel by this author and I’m sure it won’t be my last. Set in the countryside of Devon the scenery plays a big part in the story- as we delve into the past for the backstory it’s a key factor that the setting for the plot of the novel remains the same, despite the passage of time. I even found that it was a parallel for some of the characters’ plot lines.
Admittedly I found the first few pages difficult- I didn’t immediately warm to Sir Mungo and though I tried, I didn’t relate to him at first. I’m glad I persevered though because Mungo’s warmth did come across and I was invested in his history and his future so much. As a young actor he seemed to have frequently returned to the family home on holiday, bringing friends and treating them to the country life, a rural escape etc. However, now retired, he appeared to be staying longer and placing more emphasis on this natural escape to being his more permanent home.
Though initially focussed on Mungo, the author brought in old friends and new friends so that the plot kept expanding for Mungo, his brother and sister-in-law. Each persona had an intricate story of their own and sometimes I wasn’t sure how they would all match up. I liked the different generations that Willett explored - typical of a village in the countryside, you find all sorts of people amongst the ever changing fields, sky and wildlife. I was fascinated by the mystery of the past that was hinted at throughout (and mercifully is explained in the end) but I almost found it distracted from the newer relationships and found its conclusion a smidge anti-climactic- hopefully that’s just me.
Thank you to St.Martin's Press for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
August 26, 2017
A gentle, cozy, tender read about 'autumn' friendships in the English countryside.
3.5 Stars overall
INDIAN SUMMER is Willet's sixteenth book to be published in the U.S. and it's almost exactly what I needed as I settled into a busy new school year with two active kiddos. Grab a spot of tea, this is a story you'll want to settle in for; and it's a fast read so you might need only one 'warm up.'
Sir Mungo is a retired actor living in his family's cottage in rural Devon. It's summer and friends and family flock to the parcel of land to join in camaraderie, seek advice and solace. James is a self-published author working on something new, Kit an interior decorator who is tired of being the 'expert' in the room, but there are others, too and all bring a colorful array of antics, needs and loyalties to the gathering.
INDIAN SUMMER is a subtle, relaxing read with the undercurrent of secrets and old memories chipping at the surface. It's not a true mystery (though perhaps could be considered a 'cosy.'), and it's not at all psych suspense, but more of a gentle sway of character development. Willett's prose is good, but I found keeping the characters straight a bit of challenge and almost wondered if they were part of a series and had I read other of her books, I would have felt a deeper connection. I think the strength lies in the setting: a bucolic trip through Devon's countryside.
There's a striking similarity between Willett's novels and those of Maeve Binchy.
For all my reviews, including author interviews, please see: www.leslielindsay.com
Thanks to SMP/Thomas Dunne Books for this review copy in exchange of an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
3.5 Stars overall
INDIAN SUMMER is Willet's sixteenth book to be published in the U.S. and it's almost exactly what I needed as I settled into a busy new school year with two active kiddos. Grab a spot of tea, this is a story you'll want to settle in for; and it's a fast read so you might need only one 'warm up.'
Sir Mungo is a retired actor living in his family's cottage in rural Devon. It's summer and friends and family flock to the parcel of land to join in camaraderie, seek advice and solace. James is a self-published author working on something new, Kit an interior decorator who is tired of being the 'expert' in the room, but there are others, too and all bring a colorful array of antics, needs and loyalties to the gathering.
INDIAN SUMMER is a subtle, relaxing read with the undercurrent of secrets and old memories chipping at the surface. It's not a true mystery (though perhaps could be considered a 'cosy.'), and it's not at all psych suspense, but more of a gentle sway of character development. Willett's prose is good, but I found keeping the characters straight a bit of challenge and almost wondered if they were part of a series and had I read other of her books, I would have felt a deeper connection. I think the strength lies in the setting: a bucolic trip through Devon's countryside.
There's a striking similarity between Willett's novels and those of Maeve Binchy.
For all my reviews, including author interviews, please see: www.leslielindsay.com
Thanks to SMP/Thomas Dunne Books for this review copy in exchange of an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
October 6, 2017
Indian Summer is one of those books that is difficult to categorize. Some call it a Romance, but it focuses more on relationships than on romance. Others see it as Women’s Fiction, and I agree that it would appeal more to women than to men, but I prefer to just call it a novel. Marcia Willett’s Indian Summer is the story of Sir Mungo Kerslake and his brother Archie who reside on the family property near a small town. The other characters’ lives intersect with the brothers’ in various ways. Some live on the property as tenants or renters. Others are visitors from outside the community. All have secrets.
Sir Mungo is a very social retired actor and director of some renown, and all of the characters relate to him in some way. Very likable, he is the ultimate good friend—hospitable, understanding, loyal, and trustworthy. He has the amusing penchant of looking at life through a director’s lens, seeing life events as the bits and pieces of a play. He adds a fun, dramatic flair to every situation.
Indian Summer was first published as a paperback in 2015. Thomas Dunne Books is now publishing it as a hardback. This my first book by this author, but won’t be the last. I enjoyed the gentle, understanding approach of the author to her characters. The story is written in such a way that it jumps between sets of characters within a chapter. That was disconcerting at first, but as the relationships became more apparent, these switches morphed into a flow appropriate to the plot.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Thomas Dunne Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sir Mungo is a very social retired actor and director of some renown, and all of the characters relate to him in some way. Very likable, he is the ultimate good friend—hospitable, understanding, loyal, and trustworthy. He has the amusing penchant of looking at life through a director’s lens, seeing life events as the bits and pieces of a play. He adds a fun, dramatic flair to every situation.
Indian Summer was first published as a paperback in 2015. Thomas Dunne Books is now publishing it as a hardback. This my first book by this author, but won’t be the last. I enjoyed the gentle, understanding approach of the author to her characters. The story is written in such a way that it jumps between sets of characters within a chapter. That was disconcerting at first, but as the relationships became more apparent, these switches morphed into a flow appropriate to the plot.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Thomas Dunne Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 26, 2017
Mungo is a retired actor who lives in the country with his dog. He lives on the family property that belongs to his brother Archie. Archie and his wife Camilla rent out the cottages on their land. Brothers Philip and Billy are from a farming family. They live near the orchard, where Philip takes care of Billy who had a stroke. Mungo’s friend, Kit, comes to stay with him. She is dealing with a past lover who has come back into her life after his wife died. All of these old friends always think of their friend Izzy. She was a beautiful actress that everyone loved but she died young from an overdose. The other tenants of the cottages are Emma and James. James is a writer who has moved to the country to get some inspiration for his latest novel. Emma lives with her two children while her husband is away as a doctor in Afghanistan. She starts to have a relationship with one of her husband’s friends, who turns out to be more dangerous than she imagined.
There were a lot of characters and storylines. They were all connected, some much less than others. The perspective kept changing between characters. This could be confusing at times when it switched between characters in the same scene without warning.
The story kept giving hints to big scandals but it didn’t deliver. Some scenes had big cliffhangers but they were disappointing when nothing happened. I think if there were simpler plot points, the climaxes could have been bigger.
This story was well written but not as exciting as I hoped.
There were a lot of characters and storylines. They were all connected, some much less than others. The perspective kept changing between characters. This could be confusing at times when it switched between characters in the same scene without warning.
The story kept giving hints to big scandals but it didn’t deliver. Some scenes had big cliffhangers but they were disappointing when nothing happened. I think if there were simpler plot points, the climaxes could have been bigger.
This story was well written but not as exciting as I hoped.
July 22, 2017
I got to read an early copy of this from NetGalley. So, some of my comments are about format and that may very well be corrected.
Most importantly I want to say that I love the character Mungo. He's fantastic and he's the kind of person everyone should want as a friend. He's as loyal as it gets and he's fun to be around too.
Mungo is a retired actor who lives in a house on his brother's property. They've shared a lot of friends throughout the years.
One day, his friend Kit contacts him about wanting to come for a visit. He's never sure what to expect with Kit.
When she arrives, she confides in Mungo about the return of her lost love Jake. He's contacted he'd after many years of silence and she's not sure whether to give him another chance.
I found two things to be confusing in this story:
Who was talking
What year it was
There were random "appearances" from long deceased Izzy and the timeframes bounced around from present to past.
I thought this had potential to be a better story with a few format tweaks:
Let us know what year it is right off the bat
Make clear which character is talking
There were a lot of characters in the book and I spent too much time trying to keep them straight. In the scheme of things, what did I learn from having Mags in the book? Or the man in town writing his novel? I'm not sure.
But I didn't put the book down because I had to stick with Mungo. Loved his character. He's truly the heart of the whole story.
Most importantly I want to say that I love the character Mungo. He's fantastic and he's the kind of person everyone should want as a friend. He's as loyal as it gets and he's fun to be around too.
Mungo is a retired actor who lives in a house on his brother's property. They've shared a lot of friends throughout the years.
One day, his friend Kit contacts him about wanting to come for a visit. He's never sure what to expect with Kit.
When she arrives, she confides in Mungo about the return of her lost love Jake. He's contacted he'd after many years of silence and she's not sure whether to give him another chance.
I found two things to be confusing in this story:
Who was talking
What year it was
There were random "appearances" from long deceased Izzy and the timeframes bounced around from present to past.
I thought this had potential to be a better story with a few format tweaks:
Let us know what year it is right off the bat
Make clear which character is talking
There were a lot of characters in the book and I spent too much time trying to keep them straight. In the scheme of things, what did I learn from having Mags in the book? Or the man in town writing his novel? I'm not sure.
But I didn't put the book down because I had to stick with Mungo. Loved his character. He's truly the heart of the whole story.
November 11, 2017
Marcia Willett for me is lumped with Rosamunde Pilcher and Maeve Binchy: gardens, dogs, wellies and lots of tea. Lovely gentle reads with characters you almost know.
This story has many hints and portends of a hidden world beneath the "stereotypical little hamlet".
The opening pages had me off balance: characters were thrown off the pages: Mungo, Mopsa, Sammy; one of these was a human. Later Izzy, Star, Sin, Mags, Smudgy come along. Sorting them out to the main characters followed at a pace, though I always, to the end of the book, had trouble with the name Mungo.
The book often takes the reader back in memory, and sometimes the reader is not quite sure that the memory had ended. Izzy in particular is very present yet very dead. And characters see Izzy in a young mother [Emma] who has been on the edge of an affair with a menacing character with spoon bending suppressed anger. But the occasional comments that Emma resembles Izzy go nowhere, leaving me to wonder if Ms Willett has in mind to follow up with and story about Izzy as Emma's mother and something else is buried near the Herm.
Well, I look forward to whatever lovely read she offers up next. Usually by the time the next book is out I will have forgotten all these memorable characters. So I will dwell for a few days, imagining Emma in the cottage as a widow and a dying mother's confession that she is not her birth mother.....
This story has many hints and portends of a hidden world beneath the "stereotypical little hamlet".
The opening pages had me off balance: characters were thrown off the pages: Mungo, Mopsa, Sammy; one of these was a human. Later Izzy, Star, Sin, Mags, Smudgy come along. Sorting them out to the main characters followed at a pace, though I always, to the end of the book, had trouble with the name Mungo.
The book often takes the reader back in memory, and sometimes the reader is not quite sure that the memory had ended. Izzy in particular is very present yet very dead. And characters see Izzy in a young mother [Emma] who has been on the edge of an affair with a menacing character with spoon bending suppressed anger. But the occasional comments that Emma resembles Izzy go nowhere, leaving me to wonder if Ms Willett has in mind to follow up with and story about Izzy as Emma's mother and something else is buried near the Herm.
Well, I look forward to whatever lovely read she offers up next. Usually by the time the next book is out I will have forgotten all these memorable characters. So I will dwell for a few days, imagining Emma in the cottage as a widow and a dying mother's confession that she is not her birth mother.....
July 18, 2017
Set in Devon in a small village, the inhabitants are those whom for foreigners are quintessentially English! Hereditary farmers Archie and Camilla and his brother Sir Mungo. Archie and Camilla are small time farmers and trying to manage a losing battle on their property. They do not want to sell to developers either but there seems to be no way out. Sir Mungo is very rich but Archie is highly principled and does not want to take money from him. We then have other characters like Billy and Phillip whose home it has been for generations on the same property and others like Kit and Emma and James and Marcus who are part of the plot and support the story.
More or less like a very interesting drama the whole story goes forward on seemingly small incidents. One leading to another. Like all family/village stories secrets abound. What you dont know does not hurt but once you are in the know, dragged in unwittingly then you have a dilemma on your hands and this is what Mungo and Archie eventually face.
Then there is the story of Kit and Jake - a love affair left too late, decades too late and the ghost of Izzy and Ralph hovering around them all.
Strands of different stories, very well woven together to give one a very balanced view of family life in a small English village! Loved it.
More or less like a very interesting drama the whole story goes forward on seemingly small incidents. One leading to another. Like all family/village stories secrets abound. What you dont know does not hurt but once you are in the know, dragged in unwittingly then you have a dilemma on your hands and this is what Mungo and Archie eventually face.
Then there is the story of Kit and Jake - a love affair left too late, decades too late and the ghost of Izzy and Ralph hovering around them all.
Strands of different stories, very well woven together to give one a very balanced view of family life in a small English village! Loved it.
January 27, 2021
2.5 I enjoyed the cozy style of writing very much which is what kept me reading for the most part. The author did a wonderful job setting the scene for a warm and fuzzy story based in the English countryside. As the plot lines began to develop it seemed to me to take a rather strange change of course which ended up just being an unnecessary distraction really as nothing came of most of the story lines in the end and it ended leaving me feeling quite unsatisfied.
The character writing the book (I forget his name) did nothing for the story and didn't even finish his book which was bizarre as it seemed like he was going to play a significant part in the end being an avid people watcher and therefore being a key witness to anything awful that might take place.
Kit was a very difficult character to warm up to, I couldn't understand why everyone loved her so much, she just seemed very selfish and whiny to me.
One of the most irritating things about this short story was the over use of the word "sweetie" by the character Mungo. As he is a main character and this is a quick read, it took me out of the story eventually as he finished almost every sentence with it.
I wouldn't recommend this book but I would read others by the author just incase she hits the sweet spot in a different story as I did enjoy parts of it.
The character writing the book (I forget his name) did nothing for the story and didn't even finish his book which was bizarre as it seemed like he was going to play a significant part in the end being an avid people watcher and therefore being a key witness to anything awful that might take place.
Kit was a very difficult character to warm up to, I couldn't understand why everyone loved her so much, she just seemed very selfish and whiny to me.
One of the most irritating things about this short story was the over use of the word "sweetie" by the character Mungo. As he is a main character and this is a quick read, it took me out of the story eventually as he finished almost every sentence with it.
I wouldn't recommend this book but I would read others by the author just incase she hits the sweet spot in a different story as I did enjoy parts of it.
June 26, 2017
One thing this book does is give the reader a good picture of English countryside and the people who live there. In this book, Sir Mungo spends the summer at the English estate of his brother Archie and his wife Camilla. Mungo did not receive any stake in the estate because his father disapproved of his chosen profession. Kit, an old friend of Mungo from the theater, is staying with him for the summer. At this time, Kit looks for advice about rekindling an old relationship with a one-time lost love who is now a widower. The story covers the ins and outs of lives of characters in their waning years. In addition to Mungo and Kit, we meet Mungo’s brother and his wife, who have fallen on hard times and have taken in tenants, several of whom figure in the story, to help support their farm. The story focuses on friendships and relationships, with only a slight hint of mystery. It is an easy, interesting story about friendships, providing a very relaxing read for the reader. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
July 7, 2017
With its picturesque Cornwall setting, gentle good humor and a cast of engaging characters, many of them in the autumn of their years, Marcia Willett's new novel Indian Summer (St. Martin's Press, digital galley) reminds me of a Rosamunde Pilcher favorite, Winter Solstice. Famous actor and director Sir Mungo Springer loves his country retreat, part of the family farm run by his brother Archie and his wife Camilla. When his old friend Kit visits, she brings with her memories of good times shared and of other old pals, including a troubled actress. One of the book's running jokes is the presence of an aspiring novelist, who spies on the locals and concludes they're a dull bunch. Little does he realize that a young Army wife is on the brink of a dangerous affair, that two old men once buried a body in the orchard, that Kit is contemplating a second chance with her long-ago lover Jake, and that Mungo will do most anything to keep safe his family and friends. I'm getting this one for my mom.
from On a Clear Day I Can Read Forever
from On a Clear Day I Can Read Forever
July 3, 2017
Synopsis
Some memories can be forgotten…and should be forgotten. Some memories just won’t . . . ever go away. Author Marcia Willett comes out with a magnificent new novel, Indian Summer.
Actor Sir Mungo, his quiet home village in Devon provides the perfect retreat. His brother and his wife live close by, which makes the rural location of his home the ideal getaway for his old friends in London.
Kit comes to stay for the summer, bringing with her a letter from her first and only love, Jake, and a broken heart. Years have passed . . . and now he has written to Kit asking to meet again.
Book Review 4.2
A nice Marcia Willett story. It’s like meeting up with an old friend, as I read the books. Her characters come alive and she describes the countryside and houses so you think that you are there. Indian Summer is about a group who have been friends for years, secrets they keep from each other. A great read!
Some memories can be forgotten…and should be forgotten. Some memories just won’t . . . ever go away. Author Marcia Willett comes out with a magnificent new novel, Indian Summer.
Actor Sir Mungo, his quiet home village in Devon provides the perfect retreat. His brother and his wife live close by, which makes the rural location of his home the ideal getaway for his old friends in London.
Kit comes to stay for the summer, bringing with her a letter from her first and only love, Jake, and a broken heart. Years have passed . . . and now he has written to Kit asking to meet again.
Book Review 4.2
A nice Marcia Willett story. It’s like meeting up with an old friend, as I read the books. Her characters come alive and she describes the countryside and houses so you think that you are there. Indian Summer is about a group who have been friends for years, secrets they keep from each other. A great read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews