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A standalone, parallel novel in the USA Today Bestselling Mathews Family Series.
Most people know Hollywood heartthrob, Ryan Summer, as Ryan, no last name required. But once upon a time, he was just Summer to Carrie Ann—before a decade of blockbuster hits skyrocketed his success into superstardom.
Summer was smart, gorgeous, and cocky as hell. Nothing was out of his reach. Not even Carrie Ann Lowell. He was the love of her life—until he shattered her heart. Their breakup left more than a profound rift in her soul. It crushed her.
When Carrie Ann’s college flame forces his way back into her life, his dirty-talking, bold self-assurance re-ignites a passion she thought had long since been extinguished. Carrie Ann didn’t believe in second chances.
Not even for him.
No matter how deliciously tempting.
With sparks flying and hidden truths unraveling, will Carrie Anne be able to deny her desires to save herself from another heart break?

275 pages, Paperback

First published July 21, 2015

139 people are currently reading
926 people want to read

About the author

Beverly Preston

15 books1,156 followers
Beverly Preston is a USA Today and Amazon Top 10 bestselling author of contemporary romance. She writes emotionally rich and sinfully sexy stories about the ultimate alpha good guy; the kind of man you want to drag you to bed and put a ring on your finger. She also has a passion for strong, humorous, female characters and stories ingrained in a solid sense of family and loyalty.

She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, four kids, and two golden retrievers. If she's not spinning richly emotional stories, you'll find her on her spin bike.

Laugh, cry, and fall in love with The Mathews Family one Happily Ever After at a time.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
Profile Image for Red Cheeks Reads.
2,281 reviews373 followers
July 23, 2015
“He was the love of her life…until he broke her fucking heart.”

Thirty-four year old Carrie Ann Lowell, a successful philanthropist and an LA socialite, knows what it is to have loved and lost. She lost her mother at a young age to heart disease, and it affected her so profoundly that as an adult she formed a charity to raise funds for heart disease. While in college, she met the love of her life, Ryan Summer. Carrie Ann and Summer were happy together; they were very much in love, and they knew they were each other’s forever. A bright future loomed before them. Until it all came crashing down, leaving them irreparably broken. A devastated Carrie Ann closed off her heart and focused all her attention on her charity.

“Men came and went. But, the lasting image of their breakup left more than a profound rift in her heart. It crushed her. She never got over it. She never got over him.”

Ryan Summer came from a working class Midwestern family. He attended USC on a full-ride football scholarship. An extremely talented player, his was the first name mentioned when anyone spoke of the Heisman Trophy; an NFL career was sure to follow. He and Carrie Ann met at a frat party, and they were inseparable for two years. An injury ended his career, and Summer spiraled out of control as he sunk into a booze-filled depression while mourning the death of his dreams. He pushed everyone away, including Carrie Ann. In an attempt to reconcile, Carrie Ann goes to see Ryan and what she finds that day, as well as the events that follow, irrevocably change their relationship, breaking Carrie Ann in the process.

“She’d never been able to forgive Summer. He wasn’t there when she needed him most.”

Over the years, Summer attempted from time to time to get in touch with Carrie Ann. He never forgot her; he never stopped loving her. He didn’t know, however, the extent of the damage that was done that fateful day. In the ten years that they were apart, Summer grew up and did a lot of soul searching.

“All I’m asking is that you keep an open mind. Let your guard down a little.”

A chance encounter spurs Summer to action, but Carrie Ann is having none of it. When Summer ramps up his game and makes a huge public bid for her attention, Carrie Ann has no choice but to agree to one date. Little did either of them know, someone is watching her and dangerously interferes, giving Summer the perfect opportunity to not only whisk Carrie Ann to safety but also to get her somewhere they can finally talk through all their issues.

“I don’t want to be your friend, Carrie Ann.”

The subplot involving this mystery person intent on hurting Carrie Ann, while ultimately serving as the catalyst to get Summer and Carrie Ann together, was never fully developed or explained. The readers never learned who exactly this person was, what their connection to her was or what was motivating them to do what they did to Carrie Ann. There was no lead up to this person’s introduction into the story, they just appeared, very briefly, and only a few times. While this person’s actions did result in a critical step forward for the couple, this subplot was a big loose end for me.

“I love you, Summer.”
“I love you, Red. I never stopped loving you, and I never will.”


Overall I did enjoy this book, and, aside from the subplot issue I mentioned, I liked this author’s writing style. I’ve added the rest of this series to my TBR! A Taste of Summer gets a solid 4 smooches from me!

~ Danielle Palumbo
Profile Image for Danielle.
1,339 reviews51 followers
July 8, 2015
What I really liked about this story was that although it's part of the Matthews series in a way, you don't have to read any of the other books since this is a standalone.


I enjoyed Ryan and Carrie Ann. They had a history but they both still never got over one another but their time apart only helped them see the picture of them better. I enjoyed the plot. It was unique with her coming from a good family and him working his way up to becoming a well known actor.


Ryan was freaking hot but he was also sweet, caring and such a dirty talker. *swoon* I love how he takes Carrie Ann to his cabin to try to make things right with her and talk about the past In order to move forward. They spent a lot of time together even though Carrie Ann is trying to fight her attraction and love for him.


Carrie Ann on the other hand was a little annoying at times. She wants to talk about her past and what happened but she doesn't want to give him a real chance again. She has basically been half living since their split in college. She also put their mutual friends in the middle which also got a tad annoying. But overall I think they helped convince her to get it together.


So Carrie Ann is drugged and Ryan takes care of her but then a few weeks later she is drugged again by the same person. It reality I didn't even see the point of why this guy wanted to drug her so damn bad.


I loved the parts when they were at the cabin the most. I enjoyed getting to know them better along with their past. Also the dog was OMG cute! I only wish this story was longer and we had more of Ryan and Carrie Ann.


After reading this I definitely want to read the Matthews series and get to know them. Hopefully we will get more of Ryan and Carrie Ann in some future books. This was a short and sweet story that I couldn't put down and really enjoyed until the very end.
Profile Image for MJLovestoRead.
2,277 reviews58 followers
July 15, 2015
Beverly Preston has done it again. Just when I think I can’t fall in love with her words more, she goes and gives us A Taste of Summer. Another gem in the Mathews Family Series, this one solidifies for me, just how talented this author is and how much I truly enjoy losing myself in these books.

This second chance love story is about Carrie Ann, Shayla’s best friend, and Ryan Summer, Hollywood Heartthrob. They’ve been apart for 10 years, but when they have a less than coincidental run-in at a health-club, their well hidden and buried feelings for each other come right back to the surface. You can tell just by their long-held gazes and deliberate responses that these two have a ton of unfinished business. Their nicknames for each other, Summer and Red, easily roll off their tongues and those 10 years simply seem to vanish.

As their worlds seem to collide more often than Carrie Ann can stand, with her successful working relationship with Tommy Clemmins in the Bare Your Soul campaign for her Have a Heart Foundation, and Summer being a friend and associate of Tommy’s, things are bound to get complicated. For Carrie Ann, her heart has never fully recovered and with a long-held secret, she’s not sure she’ll survive another round with the love of her life. Summer, however, has other ideas and he’s not losing his girl again.

An unplanned week together, ‘stranded’ at Summer’s house in the mountains, starts a journey for both Summer and Carrie Ann to try to find their way back to each other. This could either be the start of something wonderful or the final chapter to their intense and painful past. With the hope of a new beginning, get ready for an adventure filled with lust and want, pride and patience, desire and regret. It truly has it all!
What I loved, and what I continue to love with this author’s work is how she flawlessly combines sexy as hell scenes with heartwarming moments with friends and family. Her characters are loving, loyal people who not only know how to make a friend or family member smile but will stand up for that person no matter what. I am so in love with the Clemmins/Mathews family and the way they stick together. And each and every one of the couples, and now with the inclusion of Carrie Ann and Summer, loves deeply and with every fiber of their being. The sex is off the charts hot, yet it remains tasteful and touching.

This book is the perfect addition to this series and I now have yet another bbf in Ryan Summer. The man is as swoonworthy as they come and gives my Tommy a true run for his money. His devotion to Carrie Ann, his Red, made my heart swell and I was hopeful everything would turn out just right.

Give this one a read and find out for yourself if love truly does conquer all even after so much time apart. You’ll be happy you did.

A huge 5++ stars.

Profile Image for Emmbooks .
297 reviews16 followers
January 1, 2017
Beverly Preston, where the heck have you been all my reading life??

A fantastically written book that had it all. Laughs, tears and some seriously smoking hot sex. Ryan Summer is the PERFECT amount of cocky with just the right amount of romance thrown in. it's impossible not to love him.

now I need to go read every other words you've written.

5 stars.
Profile Image for BooksandBeyondFiftyShades.
1,350 reviews158 followers
August 7, 2015
*´¨)
¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*¨)
(¸.•´ (¸.•` ¤Fantastic 5 Star Review ´`★.¸¸,. •°´♡




Carrie Ann Lowell has guarded her heart for the past 10 years due to a soul crushing heartbreak. She tries to become seriously involved in her relationships but they are all just missing something. Deep down she knows it is because she still has very deep rooted feelings for the man who crushed her soul, Ryan Summer.

Ryan Summer is known as just Ryan in the Hollywood world but years ago he was only known as Summer by Carrie Ann. They were college sweethearts who were deeply in love until an injury pulled Ryan's dream of a football career out from under him and he started pushing Carrie Ann away. Then one foolish decision and both hearts were broken.

Ryan comes back into Carrie Ann's life and is determined to clear the air between them and make a relationship work. Carrie Ann is still too devastated to even consider it but Ryan is extremely persistent. After Ryan saves Carrie Ann from a mishap at her fundraiser, he whisks her away for a little time alone. Carrie Ann fights him for as long as she can until she feels like she might be too late and he may just walk back out of her life forever.

I want to just say "Go buy this book. I promise you won't be disappointed". I am a sucker for second chance romance novels and this one was absolutely wonderful. There were so many times I was on Carrie Ann's side and agreeing with her that Ryan just needed to get over it and leave her alone. Then Ryan would do or say something and I was completely on Ryan's side.

The book was very well written and flowed very smoothly. My heart broke for what Carrie Ann had to endure alone. Ryan made a stupid mistake when he thought the world he knew was falling apart. All he wanted was Carrie Ann but her father felt he wasn't good enough and without his football career, he tended to agree with him. Hearts were broken but will Carrie Ann and Ryan be able to find a way to mend their broken hearts together without the secrets from the past breaking them even more?

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Profile Image for Three Chicks.
2,633 reviews419 followers
July 22, 2015
4.5 Stars!

Review by Natasha Gentile
This is the first time reading this author and although this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone.
Most people know Hollywood heartthrob, Ryan Summer, as Ryan, no last name required. But once upon a time, he was just Summer to Carrie Ann—before a decade of blockbuster hits skyrocketed his success into superstardom.

Summer and Carrie Ann dated in college. They fell deeply and madly in love with each other and vowed to be together forever. Till he lost his football dream sending him down a spiraling hill, pushing Carrie Ann away.
Over the years their paths crossed always breaking her and his heart a little bit more. These two have to be the two most stubborn people I have ever read about.

No matter how many years had passed, it never got any easier to see him. Each time she did, she suddenly found it harder to breath.

But now Summer is back and he’s not letting anything get in his way of getting back “the one.” He goes far and beyond to make her see that he is sorry for pushing her away but she just stays in the past never really letting go.

I took off half a star just because Carrie Ann literally pushed me to the edge of the cliff and I almost pushed her off just so I can have Summer.

“I don’t want to be your friend, Carrie Ann.” She heard him murmur. He raised to his feet, playing with her fingers before letting them loose, dropping his hand at his side “I want to be your everything.”

I’m sitting there flipping pages hoping she sees that he is there in front of her begging, begging to be loved. All she has to do is get a taste of Summer and it’ll bring everything back, or will it make the secret she carries too big for her to fight?


Profile Image for Jennifer.
239 reviews
July 21, 2015
The One that got away. Sigh...

Beverly Preston is back in amazing form with A Taste of Summer, her companion novel to the The Matthews Family Series, and I have never been more in love. In my opinion, this is her best work to date (I'm a die hard fan). Mrs. Preston has the uncanny ability to take you on a vacation with her writing, it's spectacular. She transports you into the lives of her characters with her prose and style. Few authors have the ability to write in a way that you can see every detail, smell every smell, and hear every sound. She does. Her writing is exquisitely beautiful.

Enter stage left, Ryan Summer, Hollywood heartthrob. He's made it, he's got it, and he knows it. Enter stage right, Carrie Ann, she had him, she knew him, and she wants nothing to do with him.

Who doesn't love a second chance? This sequel doesn't come easy, it actually comes with a whole lot of rewrites. With this repeat performance comes a funny, sexy, sensual, and at times gut wrenching story. It's a plot about finding your way, and letting go of the past, learning to live in the now. It's an amazing love story of two people that have to get through secrets and obstacles to finally have the curtain call they've been looking for, even when they had no idea they were the directors of their own lives.

"I don't want to be your friend Carrie Ann. I want to be your everything." ~ Summer
Profile Image for Jen Campbell.
101 reviews30 followers
July 21, 2015
ABSOLUTE MUST READ!!!
WOW…. Yes, Beverly Preston has done it again. I have LOVED each of the books Mrs. Preston has written. She has made getting to know the Mathews family a page turning journey, and the ride continues in A Taste of Summer, with Ryan and Carrie Ann.

This couple is complicated; the author does a wonderful job at taking the reader into the depth of feels that these two have for each other. We are given the characters emotions and transported to the scene. There were many times during this book, I would have gladly switch places with Carrie Ann… bwhahahaha. The below picture is a glimpse into Carrie Ann’s thoughts on Ryan.

This couple has their issues which in my opinion only the adds to the page turning appeal of this story. We are also gifted with appearances from our favorite members of the Mathews family. A detail that was fresh and exciting for this book was the chemistry that these characters had for each other. The below picture is a small taste in the sexy appeal that this story had…

Overall this book is a MUST READ!!! It was one of those stories that made you fall in love with falling in love. Well Done Mrs. Preston!!
Profile Image for Courtney.
1,986 reviews210 followers
July 21, 2015
I absolutely adore reading books by Beverly Preston. She never cease to amaze me with her stories and the way she writes.

A Taste of Summer is part of the Matthew Family series and I can attest that you can read this book as a standalone without having read any of the others.

Carrie Ann and Summer have a run-in after not being in each others lives after 10 years. But it seems as though that some things just never go away, even after many years apart.

I love the whit and humor that just flowed out of Carrie Ann's mouth. I think that's partially why I love her so much. Summer - yea, he's a heartthrob. And he is determined to get through to Carrie Ann. However, he is keeping a secret of his own.

I won't give any tidbits about the plot away aside from what I have already said. I really enjoyed reading this story. It had alot of what I enjoy in a summer romance read - humor, character, passion, love and really sexy scenes!!

Great job Beverly! You once again have made me fall in love with your characters and story! You delivered a story that many readers are sure to enjoy!
Profile Image for Pearls.
291 reviews22 followers
July 21, 2015
I absolutely adore the romance found in a Beverly Preston book. Ryan and Carrie Anne were once a couple; now she won't speak to him. What's a guy to do but whisk her away on a vacation at a remote Montana cabin with no internet or phone service. With no one else to talk to, the two slowly find their way back together. The passionate connection between them is real. Can he forgive her secret? Can she deal with her jealousy? Together, they must find a way to balance their relationship with the demands of the real world once they return to LA.

The story contains many of Preston's hallmark style. There is a beautiful majestic setting that creates the scene for our lovers, yet creating a close, intimate view into their relationship. The hero is just too good to be true, and yet human. The heroine is strong in her own right, but soft and feminine. The annoyingly cute sidekick is played by an adorable puppy in this installment. And the hotness factor between the two lovers is off the scale, as it builds a slow boil. Love it!
Profile Image for Karen323.
596 reviews16 followers
July 25, 2015
There needs to be a 4.5 rating. That's what I want to give this book. I loved it, but am held back from giving it the same 5 star rating I give to my absolute favorites that I can't live without that changed me forever. This book didn't move me quite as much as that, but I loved the emotion in the characters and the little plot twist at the end.... I actually had to go back in the book to check something so I was sure what happened really happened. Great beach read romance. Beverly Preston has not disappointed me yet. Looking forward to her next book.
Profile Image for Lorena  Garcia -- Brittany's Book Blog.
1,823 reviews59 followers
July 24, 2015
I absolutely adored A Taste of Summer. Something about these second chance love stories always gets me hooked and this one was no different. Two people who leave each other due to misunderstandings that they were unable to resolve 10 years ago and now that they have a second chance at love will they take it!!

We get to experience what goes on now and what happened 10 years ago. Why the wounds are so deep and Carrie Ann just can't forgive Summer. She is relentless and doesn't want to hear his explanation of what exactly happened that fateful night that tore her heart apart. Carrie Ann also harbors a secret that she believes will have Summer hate her if she gets the courage to come out clean and tell him.

I was in shambles throughout this book. I was heartbroken along with Summer and Carrie Ann when I was half way through and read the part of why they ended up going their separate ways 10 years ago. My heart hurt when Summer tried to explain to Carrie Ann what exactly happened back then that she would never take the time to listen to him explain, or more like she just didn't believe him no matter what he said. But Summer was relentless and he was going to get his woman back one way or another, but it seemed like he was losing his battle until their good friend Shayla knocked some sense into Carrie Ann and had her sit down and reevaluate everything that has been told to her -- all of a sudden she did a 180 and decided to finally believe Summer and give them another chance at love.

The things these two individuals went through was just so sad to have to sit and read through because those are 10 years of lost love over a misunderstanding but because her ego and pride was too strong, she refused to listen to reason.

Now to try and convince those that don't approve of their love is another story. But now that Summer and Carrie Ann have hashed out their problems, they will not let anything or anyone get in the way of their love and happiness.

I totally dig these love stories and I love my HEA!! Exceptional job well done :)

4.5 read

**Received an ARC in exchange for an honest review**
Profile Image for The Book Avenue.
402 reviews33 followers
July 21, 2015
The One that got away. Sigh...

Beverly Preston is back in amazing form with A Taste of Summer, her companion novel to the The Matthews Family Series, and I have never been more in love. In my opinion, this is her best work to date (I'm a die hard fan). Mrs. Preston has the uncanny ability to take you on a vacation with her writing, it's spectacular. She transports you into the lives of her characters with her prose and style. Few authors have the ability to write in a way that you can see every detail, smell every smell, and hear every sound. She does. Her writing is exquisitely beautiful.

Enter stage left, Ryan Summer, Hollywood heartthrob. He's made it, he's got it, and he knows it. Enter stage right, Carrie Ann, she had him, she knew him, and she wants nothing to do with him.

Who doesn't love a second chance? This sequel doesn't come easy, it actually comes with a whole lot of rewrites. With this repeat performance comes a funny, sexy, sensual, and at times gut wrenching story. It's a plot about finding your way, and letting go of the past, learning to live in the now. It's an amazing love story of two people that have to get through secrets and obstacles to finally have the curtain call they've been looking for, even when they had no idea they were the directors of their own lives.

"I don't want to be your friend Carrie Ann. I want to be your everything." ~ Summer

jenn This review was originally posted on The Book Avenue

Profile Image for Natasha.
282 reviews30 followers
July 22, 2015
Review by Natasha Gentile
This is the first time reading this author and although this is part of a series it can be read as a stand alone.
Most people know Hollywood heartthrob, Ryan Summer, as Ryan, no last name required. But once upon a time, he was just Summer to Carrie Ann—before a decade of blockbuster hits skyrocketed his success into superstardom.

Summer and Carrie Ann dated in college. They fell deeply and madly in love with each other and vowed to be together forever. Till he lost his football dream sending him down a spiraling hill, pushing Carrie Ann away.
Over the years their paths crossed always breaking her and his heart a little bit more. These two have to be the two most stubborn people I have ever read about.

No matter how many years had passed, it never got any easier to see him. Each time she did, she suddenly found it harder to breath.

But now Summer is back and he’s not letting anything get in his way of getting back “the one.” He goes far and beyond to make her see that he is sorry for pushing her away but she just stays in the past never really letting go.

I took off half a star just because Carrie Ann literally pushed me to the edge of the cliff and I almost pushed her off just so I can have Summer.

“I don’t want to be your friend, Carrie Ann.” She heard him murmur. He raised to his feet, playing with her fingers before letting them loose, dropping his hand at his side “I want to be your everything.”

I’m sitting there flipping pages hoping she sees that he is there in front of her begging, begging to be loved. All she has to do is get a taste of Summer and it’ll bring everything back, or will it make the secret she carries too big for her to fight?
Profile Image for Michelle ♥ The Romance Vault ♥ .
1,166 reviews97 followers
July 31, 2015
Ah Beverly, you just can't go wrong really with a Beverly Preston book. She writes hot romance with emotion and she writes it bloomin' well every time.

Summer and Carrie Ann were childhood sweethearts and the events of the end of his football career also ended his relationship with Carrie Ann. Ten years later they get a second change, manipulated a bit by Ryan, he certainly took advantage of circumstance and leapt in with both feet.

I kept thinking as I was reading through, would I be able to take back a person after the events, and I really couldn't answer that, so I was in two minds if Carrie Ann should have taken him back or not. In fiction though, of course it's the perfect read, will they, won' they they? Keeps you on your toes throughout.

The star of the book is Aspen! A big shout out to the four legged friend. The interaction with Aspen whether from love and cuddles, to puppy training and indeed 'mishaps with nature' equal priceless pages of endearment. I love a good four legged friend in my romance reads and Aspen is up there with the greatest.

This book is pretty great for a holiday read, it's pure and simply a feel good, sexy, rumpy-pumpy read. Well worth your time and pennies for a great piece of escapism done the Beverly way. Beverly writes in third person, the story is narrated to you, so if that's your preference and you can't gel with 1st person reads, then WAVING at ya! You'll love this! I can read either, 1st person comes easier to my absorbtion but I will happily read anything Beverly writes and know I will be engrossed with the first 1/2 dozen pages.

I received an ARC of A Taste of Summer in return for an honest review, my reviews are my own and are 100% honest.
Profile Image for Katrina Lampkin.
46 reviews1 follower
July 25, 2015
Summer....


Oh my, what was I thinking. Clearly I wasn't! When I looked at the title I think I was anticipating something different. Although I'm also not quite sure what that is. Summer is not referring to the season but to one of the main characters, the heart throb as he is referred to throughout the book. The rest of the title is to your imagination and to be realized when you read this book. So make sure you buy this book and read it. I received an Arc for an honest review and wasn't disappointed. I'd actually give 4.5 stars.


Summer is now a big movie star. Carrie Ann (the othe main character) is also very successful. When they meet again in life we are taken on a journey through feelings that neither were able to move past, regardless of other relationships. After what seemed like an amazing charity auction Carrie Ann finds herself somewhere (Montana-she has no idea at first) with Summer. Once you get here... its hard to put the book down. Carrie fights her feelings and tries to deny what she really wants. There is also another twist in the story... I'm not telling you! Totally not something I anticipated. "I'd say. Who needs a vent caramel macchiato? This view requires enjoying your favorite cup of coffee while snuggling under the covers. It's breathtaking." This I think sums up many scenes.


This was also my first read for this author. She kept my interest and didn't disappoint. I have added her to my list of authors to further check...definitely something you should do... RIGHT NOW!
Profile Image for Michele McMullen .
2,512 reviews84 followers
July 23, 2015
Hats off to Mrs.Preston. She has given us another fabulous couple to fall in love with in her new book a Taste of Summer.

Carrie Ann Lowell and Ryan Summer were meant to be together forever. Unfortunately sometimes life has a way of getting knocked off course.
These two strong willed, feisty individuals collide once again 10 years later. The attraction is not only still very apparent but is undeniable. Carrie had her heart shattered and will not be making that mistake again with golden boy Summer. Ryan knows what he wants and will do everything in his power to have it back. Carrie is his it and always has been , she just doesn't realize that yet. The sexy, cocky confident Mr. Summer is about to show her how persuasive he can be.
Beverly's writing takes hold of you and drags you in . You the reader become emotionally invested and fall right into the lives of these characters. We are taken on a journey of rediscovery. Is this relationship salvageable or will the years and baggage tear them down? We are privileged to feel like we are there watching these characters evolve, heal and hopefully remember what made them amazing together.
Beverly you certainly know how to show us a Good Time!
Thank you!
I was gifted this book for an honest review.
~~Michele McMullen~~
Profile Image for Marissa.
3,583 reviews47 followers
July 21, 2015
ARC Kindle Copy for Review

Most people think they know Ryan Summer the Hollywood heartthrob but before that he was just Summer to Carrie Ann a decade ago before his stardom. Summer had the world at his feet as he planned to used his football to get the fame and wealth but then he got hurt and his football career was no longer.

Carrie Ann Lowell was the love of his life until he broke her heart when she found him with another woman. He was going to propose on her birthday but it never happened as they went their separate ways. She still suffers a broken heart even after all this time.

But when he returns in her life at his movie premiere feelings are once again put to the test as he then wins a bid of a million dollar to go on a date with her for charity. She finds herself the next morning in a secluded cabin in Montana with him and not knowing how she got there and finding out she was drugged.

It does not take them to realize there is still passion between them and perhaps they are still in love with each other. Can they finally talk about that day and the secrets that they still harbor? Will they ever be able to be together and be happy? Sometimes love comes full circle with no place to run
Profile Image for Jodie D..
577 reviews13 followers
July 21, 2015
This is the first book by Beverly Preston that I have read and it is not going to be my last. I feel this book can easily be read as a stand alone. I could pick out the focus of the other books without knowing anything about them. However, it didn't keep me from connecting with the characters and completely enjoying the book.

I absolutely loved Carrie Ann. She was such a strong character with a little sass to book. She was all sweet at times, but when he needed put in his place, she wasn't afraid to do it. She was hiding something, I couldn't wait to find out what it was...the built up tension kept me from putting the book down for long.

I loved Summer's dedication to getting Carrie Ann back. But then again, I'm a sucker for second chance stories. I always want to know if they can find the strength to forget their pasts and trust each other enough to move forward together. The author was able to draw me into their emotions. I experienced all theirs joys and sorrows, loving every minute of it.

This book is written in third person POV. There is no cliffhanger ending. I look forward to reading more from this talented author.
Profile Image for Ebbie ~Author Groupies.
558 reviews10 followers
September 7, 2015

Rating: 4.5 Stars
A Taste of Summer is a parallel novel to the Matthews Family Series but can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the series but was able to follow the story and the characters without any problems. This is a great second chance love story.

Summer is a top Hollywood star know as Ryan but to Carrie he was always be her Summer. Carrie is an independent, strong female lead which makes it harder for Summer to get back into her life. He has a cocky side and a dirty mouth...very swoon-worthy! Carrie is very sassy and also tends to have a dirty mouth which leads to some very interesting heated scenes. I loved the characters, even the secondary characters were easy to connect to.

I loved that Carrie was so involved with the HAH foundation. I found this to be a nice side story to the romance. The heart foundation has always had a special place in my family; this made the story very bittersweet to read and I teared up several times when Carrie talked about her mom.

I would recommend this book to anyone who likes a great second chance love story. This was the first book I have read by this author and I look forward to reading more from her.

Profile Image for Karrie Mellott Puskas.
672 reviews6 followers
July 5, 2015
Beverly sure knows how to make your panties melt! Book after book she writes these men. When I don't think she could top the other, she does! I was so in love with Reed from Surviving Broken. But darn it! Ryan Summer of A Taste of Summer may just have gone above Reed for me! And I hate it well not really! ;)

Carrie Ann and Summer have a history together and over the years they haven't spoken. One night at a bachelor/bachelorette auction changes things. Ryan swoops in as Carrie Ann's knight in shining armor. Though she doesn't remember much of the night, the connection of Summer and her is just as strong.

Ryan works at trying to break down Carrie Ann's walls and pulls out a lot of stops! Carrie Ann being so strong willed is unwillingly to let him back in. But one moment it all come crumbling down and you can not help but get excited for this couple.

I have to say these two are one of my favorite couples hat I've read! You can never go wrong with a Beverly Preston book! So do not hesitate! One click this book!!!
Profile Image for Renee at Book Happiness.
1,486 reviews36 followers
July 24, 2015
OH I JUST LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! I received this for an honest review.. I have to say this book pulled me into this world that I just fall in love with more and more with every book.. From the minute I started reading to the minute I finished I was in FREAKING LOVE!!!

This book can be read as a standalone but in my opinion should be read as a part of the series because you get to see the characters from the other books!!

Beverly does an amazing job with this book. While I was reading this book there was no other world but this book. (Which im pretty sure irritated my coworkers as I was at work while reading). As soon as I was finished with this book I wanted to start at the beginning again..

This is a second chance romance and one at its best!! Just freaking loved the crap out of this..

Carrie Ann and Ryan Summer were college sweethearts when something tore them apart. Now many years later Summer is back and he wants Carrie back and will do anything to make this happen!!

LOVED LOVED LOVED

Profile Image for DCT.
1,036 reviews2 followers
Read
July 25, 2015
Summer is hot, sultry, and sizzling just like the season.

Beverly has added another wonderful story to the Mathews saga. She has a beautiful way with words, which draws the reader in, making you feel truly absorbed in the story. Carrie Ann is the best friend to Shayla, who is Tom Clemmins niece and married to John Mathews, whom we grown to love from previous editions. Ryan Summer is s hottie movie star, but when he and Carrie Ann were together in college, he was a rising football star, until an injury derailed his career and his relationship with Carrie Ann. Ten years later, Carrie Ann is still harboring a lot of anger and resentment against Summer, that came across as childish and immature. Luckily, Summer was persistent, and true love prevailed, and like with her previous works, Beverly weaves in a sensitive issue that as always, is thought provoking. Beverly, I enjoy your work and look forward to much more. I'm hoping that there is more in store from the Mathews gang, as I am not ready to let go of them just yet.
Profile Image for Indies Heart.
154 reviews6 followers
July 16, 2015
I really enjoyed Carrie Ann and Summer's story. They began and ended ten years prior to A Taste Of Summer in what would hold them both hostage to hurt, grief, anger, and a love that neither of them can let go. Both have made their way, forging ahead despite the past, albeit, not easily. With Summer's new career putting him in the spotlight, and Carrie Ann pretty much keeping private due to the guilt and grief she carries daily, when their worlds once again collide, can they put everything else aside and come together? Or will it all be too much for them, leaving them forever broken? Beverly Preston captures your heart with Ryan Summer and Carrie Ann. Beautifully written bringing all the emotions one craves in a love story. You'll love the romance, you'll hate the grief, you'll feel their pain every page along the way. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves a great story, with twist, and heartache, but most of all, the power of love.
Profile Image for Night and Day book blog.
186 reviews6 followers
July 23, 2015
4.5 stars I was given this book as an arc by the author for an honest review.
I found this story to be very touching but hot. Ryan Summer is a man you just can't help but love and lust over. He's got a reputation though and Carrie Anne knows first hand how he is. She will never go back down that road again or will she? I truly felt every emotion that came from this book it has a little of everything. The playful banter and stubbornness of Carrie Anne brought the characters more to life for me. The struggles of what happened to her made you feel sorry for her. But at the same time made you want to say stop being difficult. Summer is really a patient man he really tried to be what she needs. And to understand what she's hiding until he doesn't think he can do it anymore. Ahhhhhhhh at the time I just wanted to say it's OK you can have me. Trust me when I say you will fall madly in love with these characters. Reviewing for Night and Day book blog http://ndbbr2014.com Stephanie Powell
Profile Image for Latochia Hawkins.
279 reviews11 followers
August 4, 2015
This was my first time reading a book from this author and I fell in love with the characters.
A Taste of Summer is part of the Mathews Family Series, but can definitely be read alone. I was worried about being lost in their world, but I was not.
Ryan & Carrie were old loves who were back in each other lives. Whether by chance or by other means, they are starting to see a lot more of each other. But do to old scars and issues, Carrie is not so sure about all this.

I do love second chance love stories! And Ryan has a way about him that turns up the heat level and knows just how to take care of Carrie! He has grown up and he just has to prove that to her and everyone around her. Carrie just has to get past her pride and the pain in order to give Ryan that chance.

Once Ryan starts breaking down those barriers, you can't put it down! There are a few twists and an overbearing parent, and a few crazed fans (on both sides!!!)
Loved it from beginning to end!!!
Profile Image for Tinabooklover.
660 reviews2 followers
July 8, 2015
The more I read from this author the more I love her writing!
I love a hot alpha male...but Summer...hot damn that guy is something else! I can't get enough of him! I could have jumped in the book and kicked Carrie Ann's ass for not giving in to him sooner!! Let me tell you, she has way more restraint then I will ever have!
I loved the flow of this book. As always with BP's books, she gave us a wonderful beautiful touching love story. Even though this is a standalone, the Mathews Family were all here! I was so glad about that because I could read about them forever and never have enough!
I am looking forward to whatever this author has for us next! She truly has a gift for writing, and I'm glad I have the privilege to read what she has gifted us. I wonder who will be our next hot alpha?? Or maybe it will be a story about Sara? I can't wait to find out!!
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,599 reviews78 followers
July 24, 2015
4 star

The story has laughs, second chance at love, and heartbreak.

This is Carrie and Ryan’s story. After Ryan broke her heart years ago now he’s back and thinks he can get another chance, no that is not happening as far as she is concerned. So what’s a guy to do about that? Take her away from it all and make her listen? The more they talk the more you can see they still love each other even if they don’t want to admit it. Secrets will be revealed. Will they be able to move past there history and the secrets and move on? Will she be able to deal with his life in LA? Can this couple who are so much in love with each other really be able to get there second chance and make that chance work?

I felt I was able to connect with the characters and the story was a great read.

I recommend this book and can’t wait for the next story from these authors.
Profile Image for Florence.
463 reviews8 followers
July 21, 2015
I absolutely love this series. . Every time I read one of these books I hope there will be another one... Beverly Preston has an incredible way of drawing you into the lives of her characters so deep you can't help but feel the intensity of their emotions.. Ryan was such a suprise in this book and a perfect example of how people aren't always what they appear to be.. Ryan and Carrie Ann's story is full of regrets, longing, loss and endless passion.. It is a story that took a decade to come full circle but not without a bit of help from fate and a fustrated best friend.. and of course we get to play catch up with some of our favorite members of the Matthews family but you will have to read the book to see who and what they have been upto since the last book. ...
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