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Summer Harvest
English dog trainer Beth Poole is having trouble getting her life back together after beating a life-threatening illness and divorcing her husband. When her Aussie-soap-obsessed grandma sends her to Australia to recover, it seems a great opportunity for some rest and relaxation while she figures out what's next.
But when Beth arrives in Australia things get off to a rocky start. To begin with, she's on the wrong coast and there are deadly creatures everywhere. And if that weren't enough, her neighbours are driving her crazy. She's staying in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, right next door to a family-owned vineyard. It should be perfect, but the boisterous Hardy clan just don't seem able to leave her alone. The usually reserved Beth is soon reluctantly embroiled in their family disputes and romantic entanglements. And eldest son Clayton Hardy is proving surprisingly persistent.
The more Beth gets to know Clayton and the Hardys, the more she sees what she wants for her future. But as the end of summer approaches, her past comes back to haunt her and will test her newfound relationships to the limit.
From the author of Fly In Fly Out comes this entertaining and touching story about family, friendship and love among the grapevines.
But when Beth arrives in Australia things get off to a rocky start. To begin with, she's on the wrong coast and there are deadly creatures everywhere. And if that weren't enough, her neighbours are driving her crazy. She's staying in the beautiful Margaret River wine region, right next door to a family-owned vineyard. It should be perfect, but the boisterous Hardy clan just don't seem able to leave her alone. The usually reserved Beth is soon reluctantly embroiled in their family disputes and romantic entanglements. And eldest son Clayton Hardy is proving surprisingly persistent.
The more Beth gets to know Clayton and the Hardys, the more she sees what she wants for her future. But as the end of summer approaches, her past comes back to haunt her and will test her newfound relationships to the limit.
From the author of Fly In Fly Out comes this entertaining and touching story about family, friendship and love among the grapevines.
274 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 27, 2016
3 people are currently reading
119 people want to read
About the author
Georgina Penney
9 books83 followersHello There,
So wonderful of you to drop by!
I am no longer writing novels under the name Georgina Penney but you can find all future releases published under the name Evie Snow. All Evie Snow books will be set in the same 'world' with characters you've already met in my Georgina Penney books.
Why the change in name? It's largely because I want to acknowledge how much my lovely husband Tony (AKA The Kraken) helps me in the writing process. We thought a pen name that we'd both come up with would be a much better choice.
Check out www.eviesnow.net for all the info.
But if you want to learn a little more about me, here goes:
Georgina Penney first discovered romance novels when she was eleven and has been a fan of the genre ever since. It took her another eighteen years to finally sit in front of a keyboard and get something down on the page but that's alright, she was busy doing other things until then.
Some of those things included living in a ridiculous number of towns and cities in Australia before relocating overseas to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Brunei Darussalam and presently, Scotland.
In between all these travels, Georgina managed to learn to paint, get herself a Communication and Cultural Studies degree, study Psychotherapy and learn all about Hypnotherapy. In the early days she even managed to get on the IT roller coaster during the early noughties boom, inexplicably ending the ride by becoming the registrar of a massage and naturopathy college. There was also a PhD in the mix there somewhere but moving to Saudi Arabia and rediscovering the bodice ripper fixed all that.
Today she lives with her wonderful husband, Tony in the Scottish wilds surrounded by hairy coos and far too many procreating rabbits.
So wonderful of you to drop by!
I am no longer writing novels under the name Georgina Penney but you can find all future releases published under the name Evie Snow. All Evie Snow books will be set in the same 'world' with characters you've already met in my Georgina Penney books.
Why the change in name? It's largely because I want to acknowledge how much my lovely husband Tony (AKA The Kraken) helps me in the writing process. We thought a pen name that we'd both come up with would be a much better choice.
Check out www.eviesnow.net for all the info.
But if you want to learn a little more about me, here goes:
Georgina Penney first discovered romance novels when she was eleven and has been a fan of the genre ever since. It took her another eighteen years to finally sit in front of a keyboard and get something down on the page but that's alright, she was busy doing other things until then.
Some of those things included living in a ridiculous number of towns and cities in Australia before relocating overseas to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Brunei Darussalam and presently, Scotland.
In between all these travels, Georgina managed to learn to paint, get herself a Communication and Cultural Studies degree, study Psychotherapy and learn all about Hypnotherapy. In the early days she even managed to get on the IT roller coaster during the early noughties boom, inexplicably ending the ride by becoming the registrar of a massage and naturopathy college. There was also a PhD in the mix there somewhere but moving to Saudi Arabia and rediscovering the bodice ripper fixed all that.
Today she lives with her wonderful husband, Tony in the Scottish wilds surrounded by hairy coos and far too many procreating rabbits.
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June 18, 2017
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(4.5 stars)
Summer Harvest is a modern contemporary romance novel, inspired by the author, Georgina Penney’s very close friend’s experience of dealing with breast cancer. While offering an insight into the effects of breast cancer, Summer Harvest is also a humorous and heartfelt journey, following one woman’s path in finding love again. The picturesque backdrop of the Margaret River region, located in Western Australia, is where this appealing story plays out.
Beth Poole lives in the north of England. She has a satisfying career as a dog trainer, but she finds herself at a loose end. Beth’s marriage has ended in divorce, she is recuperating from breast cancer and she is now living with her grandparents. Beth’s grandmother Violet senses Beth’s disillusion with her current life and gifts her trip of a lifetime, across the other side of the world. Although thankful for this generous gift, Beth feels uneasy about making the big journey across the other side of the world, to a city in Australia she knows very little about. Despite her apprehension, Beth makes the journey and it lands her in a cottage nestled in the tranquil vineyard region of Margaret River. It does not take Beth long to befriend the locals, including a neighbour from an adjacent winery, Clayton Hardy. Beth and Clayton experience instant attraction and a sizzling relationship between the sheets soon emerges from their meeting. However, Beth chooses to shield her health problems from Clayton, while Clayton has his own insecurities, which surfaces as their relationship develops. As the two month mark and the end of Beth’s trip draws to a close, Beth has to make the decision as to whether or not her love for Clayton can stand the test of distance.
I love the new crop of novels that have started to emerge as an offshoot from the popular Australian rural romance genre, aptly titled ‘vineyard lit’. It was absolutely superb to see author Georgina Penney set her novel in an area that is deeply familiar to me, the Margaret River region located in south west WA. Penney’s descriptions of this locale are both vivid and realistic, showcasing the true beauty of this region. The vineyard setting will be sure to appeal to readers and it is the ideal place for a romance to flourish.
I have to say I really appreciated the tone of Penney’s novel, which is the first I have read from this author. She managed to deliver a blend of heartfelt insight, realism and humour to the pages of her novel. Whilst the book does cover some fairly serious and life threatening issues, Penney takes it in her stride and the final product is a sensitively handled novel.
The leads of Summer Harvest, Beth and Clayton, are likable and relatable characters. Beth and Clayton each have their own set of insecurities, which keeps the reader interested in how they will overcome these feelings. I warmed quickly to Beth, as well as her generous grandmother Violet. Overall, I simply enjoyed the journey Beth makes as a person, to heal after her recovery from breast cancer. Clayton is an appealing lead and I liked his connection to the wine industry. His family makes a good contribution to the novel, with their dramas, couplings and strength of spirit. The romance side of the novel is on the steamy side, which will easily appeal to those who enjoy hot and heavy holiday flings. The road to Beth and Clayton’s life together is fraught with things left unsaid, unresolved feelings and a time lapse, however, the ending draws to a close in a pleasing fashion.
I heartily recommend Summer Harvest, particularly to those who appreciate a solid romance, a strong character journey and a bonza Aussie setting. I’m off to seek out Fly in Fly Out, also by Georgia Penney, as soon as I can, as I’m told it features some of the lovely characters featured in Summer Harvest.
(4.5 stars)
Summer Harvest is a modern contemporary romance novel, inspired by the author, Georgina Penney’s very close friend’s experience of dealing with breast cancer. While offering an insight into the effects of breast cancer, Summer Harvest is also a humorous and heartfelt journey, following one woman’s path in finding love again. The picturesque backdrop of the Margaret River region, located in Western Australia, is where this appealing story plays out.
Beth Poole lives in the north of England. She has a satisfying career as a dog trainer, but she finds herself at a loose end. Beth’s marriage has ended in divorce, she is recuperating from breast cancer and she is now living with her grandparents. Beth’s grandmother Violet senses Beth’s disillusion with her current life and gifts her trip of a lifetime, across the other side of the world. Although thankful for this generous gift, Beth feels uneasy about making the big journey across the other side of the world, to a city in Australia she knows very little about. Despite her apprehension, Beth makes the journey and it lands her in a cottage nestled in the tranquil vineyard region of Margaret River. It does not take Beth long to befriend the locals, including a neighbour from an adjacent winery, Clayton Hardy. Beth and Clayton experience instant attraction and a sizzling relationship between the sheets soon emerges from their meeting. However, Beth chooses to shield her health problems from Clayton, while Clayton has his own insecurities, which surfaces as their relationship develops. As the two month mark and the end of Beth’s trip draws to a close, Beth has to make the decision as to whether or not her love for Clayton can stand the test of distance.
I love the new crop of novels that have started to emerge as an offshoot from the popular Australian rural romance genre, aptly titled ‘vineyard lit’. It was absolutely superb to see author Georgina Penney set her novel in an area that is deeply familiar to me, the Margaret River region located in south west WA. Penney’s descriptions of this locale are both vivid and realistic, showcasing the true beauty of this region. The vineyard setting will be sure to appeal to readers and it is the ideal place for a romance to flourish.
I have to say I really appreciated the tone of Penney’s novel, which is the first I have read from this author. She managed to deliver a blend of heartfelt insight, realism and humour to the pages of her novel. Whilst the book does cover some fairly serious and life threatening issues, Penney takes it in her stride and the final product is a sensitively handled novel.
The leads of Summer Harvest, Beth and Clayton, are likable and relatable characters. Beth and Clayton each have their own set of insecurities, which keeps the reader interested in how they will overcome these feelings. I warmed quickly to Beth, as well as her generous grandmother Violet. Overall, I simply enjoyed the journey Beth makes as a person, to heal after her recovery from breast cancer. Clayton is an appealing lead and I liked his connection to the wine industry. His family makes a good contribution to the novel, with their dramas, couplings and strength of spirit. The romance side of the novel is on the steamy side, which will easily appeal to those who enjoy hot and heavy holiday flings. The road to Beth and Clayton’s life together is fraught with things left unsaid, unresolved feelings and a time lapse, however, the ending draws to a close in a pleasing fashion.
I heartily recommend Summer Harvest, particularly to those who appreciate a solid romance, a strong character journey and a bonza Aussie setting. I’m off to seek out Fly in Fly Out, also by Georgia Penney, as soon as I can, as I’m told it features some of the lovely characters featured in Summer Harvest.
January 25, 2016
When Beth Poole received the air ticket for her birthday to fly to Australia for two months for a holiday, she was flabbergasted. Used to her grandma Violet’s extravagant but different gifts, she thought this one had beaten them all. Beth was a dog trainer; living in London with her grandma and Louis, Violet’s second husband after the dreadful events of the past few years, she had felt nothing but love and caring. Beth had been through serious and life-threatening surgery and then the divorce of her husband – she had been extremely fragile; Violet and Louis took her under their wings and showered her with love.
Arriving in Perth after a long flight from London, Beth hired a car and headed to a small town in the Margaret River vineyard region. After a beginning she could have done without – a flat tyre; her fear of Australia’s deadliest creatures and a handsome stranger – she arrived at the divine little cottage which was run by Laura Hardy. The immediate kinship she felt to Laura surprised Beth – she had had no friends her own age for such a long time, she really didn’t know how to react…
The heat of Australia’s summer felt extremely intense to Beth after London’s cold and dreary winter; but the friendliness of her neighbours, the Hardy’s felt wonderful. Especially Clayton Hardy; good looking, rugged – a real Australian male, he was also persistent in his friendly attentions to the shy Beth. As Beth enjoyed the endless days of her holidays, she knew the summer would soon be over; she would once again return to England. What would happen with the friendships she had made? And would the fear of verbalising her past come back to haunt her?
Summer Harvest by Aussie author Georgina Penney is a beautifully written novel; the descriptions of the Australian bush, the vineyards of the Margaret River region in WA and the well-crafted characters made this book another exceptional read. I first read this author with her novel, Fly In Fly Out and loved it, so knew I had to read this one. And it definitely didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
Arriving in Perth after a long flight from London, Beth hired a car and headed to a small town in the Margaret River vineyard region. After a beginning she could have done without – a flat tyre; her fear of Australia’s deadliest creatures and a handsome stranger – she arrived at the divine little cottage which was run by Laura Hardy. The immediate kinship she felt to Laura surprised Beth – she had had no friends her own age for such a long time, she really didn’t know how to react…
The heat of Australia’s summer felt extremely intense to Beth after London’s cold and dreary winter; but the friendliness of her neighbours, the Hardy’s felt wonderful. Especially Clayton Hardy; good looking, rugged – a real Australian male, he was also persistent in his friendly attentions to the shy Beth. As Beth enjoyed the endless days of her holidays, she knew the summer would soon be over; she would once again return to England. What would happen with the friendships she had made? And would the fear of verbalising her past come back to haunt her?
Summer Harvest by Aussie author Georgina Penney is a beautifully written novel; the descriptions of the Australian bush, the vineyards of the Margaret River region in WA and the well-crafted characters made this book another exceptional read. I first read this author with her novel, Fly In Fly Out and loved it, so knew I had to read this one. And it definitely didn’t disappoint. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this copy in exchange for my honest review.
February 10, 2016
Georgina Penney returns to the sumptuous settings situations she wrought from her previous outing "Fly In/Fly Out" and creates an utterly gorgeous novel with Summer Harvest. The exquisite Margaret River region of Western Australia, with its world renowned vineyards, rolling countryside and azure beaches feature more prominently here and you are effortlessly drawn into the colour and the warmth and the scents of this truly Australian environment.
Taking characters that existed on the periphery in her previous work and giving them their own chance to shine is something Georgina accomplishes with aplomb. The strong, well drawn cast of characters, lead by the enigmatic Beth Poole and her love interest Clayton Hardy, are a strength of Georgina's writing and you quickly come to empathize with them and hold them with affection. There is real emotion in their interactions with one another and the tapestry of their respective backgrounds and narrative arcs are woven together so beautifully, reading Summer Harvest is a joyful experience.
Georgina Penney tackles the issue of serious illness in this new work and how each of the main players are affected by it. Balancing this in the context of a romantic core narrative can be tricky but Georgina is no stranger to exploring heavier plot threads in her works and finding heart and soul in them. My appreciation for what she achieved here is astronomical and I think that for anyone who has faced terminal illness, there is much comfort and sensitivity in the way Georgina has presented it.
Summer Harvest promises a reading banquet - offering delicious courses and robust accompaniments that will leave you filled and wiping your mouth with your fancy serviette and wondering if you can just fit in a little more.
I loved it.
Taking characters that existed on the periphery in her previous work and giving them their own chance to shine is something Georgina accomplishes with aplomb. The strong, well drawn cast of characters, lead by the enigmatic Beth Poole and her love interest Clayton Hardy, are a strength of Georgina's writing and you quickly come to empathize with them and hold them with affection. There is real emotion in their interactions with one another and the tapestry of their respective backgrounds and narrative arcs are woven together so beautifully, reading Summer Harvest is a joyful experience.
Georgina Penney tackles the issue of serious illness in this new work and how each of the main players are affected by it. Balancing this in the context of a romantic core narrative can be tricky but Georgina is no stranger to exploring heavier plot threads in her works and finding heart and soul in them. My appreciation for what she achieved here is astronomical and I think that for anyone who has faced terminal illness, there is much comfort and sensitivity in the way Georgina has presented it.
Summer Harvest promises a reading banquet - offering delicious courses and robust accompaniments that will leave you filled and wiping your mouth with your fancy serviette and wondering if you can just fit in a little more.
I loved it.
February 1, 2016
"'A ticket to Australia,' she said faintly.'Wonderful Gran, Louis, thank you so much.' She forced her mouth to curve upwards into something resembling a smile.'This is great. Just great.'"
When Beth Poole's grandmother gifts her an airline ticket from Yorkshire to Western Australia for her birthday she's reluctant to vacation in a country in which every living thing seems to be lethal. Nevertheless, Beth books a months stay in a holiday cottage in George Creek looking forward to a few weeks of peace and quiet.
Loosely linked to Georgina Penney's previous novels, Irrepressible You and Fly In Fly Out, Summer Harvest is a lovely contemporary romance novel set in the the south west winery region of Australia.
The focus of the story is on the relationship that develops between Beth and Clayton Hardy, whose family owns the winery next door to where Beth is staying. They enjoy an intimate holiday fling which becomes complicated when Beth reveals a secret she has been keeping. An additional subplot involves a fractious relationship between Clayton's father, Rob Hardy and new winery hire, Gwen Stone, who have a history neither are willing to disclose. Both plotlines also explore the themes of loss, grief and moving on.
The characters are well drawn. Beth is a strong character, having survived the loss of her family and the desertion of her husband, as well as breast cancer, and Clayton is an appealing lead. I enjoyed the supporting characters including Beth's outspoken grandmother Violet and Angie, the matriarch of the Evangaline Rest Winery, chatty Laura and her cheeky brother Jeff. Fred, the perpetually stoned farm hand, is good for a laugh too.
Penney's writing style is warm, I enjoyed the very Aussie humour and the witty dialogue. The emotions are believable, the intimate scenes between Beth and Clay are well written and the story is well paced.
Summer Harvest is an engaging read and the ending satisfied the romantic in me.
January 22, 2016
In the space of a few months, Beth’s sister dies of breast cancer, she herself is diagnosed, and after a double mastectomy her husband leaves her. She returns to live with her grandmother and withdraws into herself, only venturing out for her job as a dog trainer.
When her grandmother gives her a trip to Australia for her birthday she is reluctant to leave the austere life she has built for herself after the divorce. But despite her misgivings a week later she finds herself driving along a dry dusty road in the Margaret River wine making region of Western Australia, her destination a small cabin on a working farm.
As she settles in, she makes new friends, among them Clayton who runs a vineyard in the area. Their attraction is immediate but her scars run deeper than the surgeons knife, and for his part Clayton’s mother died of cancer and he is terrified of starting a relationship with Beth only to have her taken from him.
Summer Harvest is something of a hybrid. It combines the best elements of Contemporary Romance with what is essentially Women's Fiction and it manages to effortlessly avoid the pitfalls of both. I wouldn't call it a fun read, it's serious and occasionally emotionally fraught but it's ultimately emotionally satisfying and I loved it.
Many thanks to Penguin Books Australia and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
When her grandmother gives her a trip to Australia for her birthday she is reluctant to leave the austere life she has built for herself after the divorce. But despite her misgivings a week later she finds herself driving along a dry dusty road in the Margaret River wine making region of Western Australia, her destination a small cabin on a working farm.
As she settles in, she makes new friends, among them Clayton who runs a vineyard in the area. Their attraction is immediate but her scars run deeper than the surgeons knife, and for his part Clayton’s mother died of cancer and he is terrified of starting a relationship with Beth only to have her taken from him.
Summer Harvest is something of a hybrid. It combines the best elements of Contemporary Romance with what is essentially Women's Fiction and it manages to effortlessly avoid the pitfalls of both. I wouldn't call it a fun read, it's serious and occasionally emotionally fraught but it's ultimately emotionally satisfying and I loved it.
Many thanks to Penguin Books Australia and Netgalley for providing me with this ARC
April 2, 2016
For more of my reviews, go to http://bookmusterdownunder.blogspot.c...
In Summer Harvest (which is loosely linked to both the author's prior books Irrepressible You and Fly In Fly Out), Georgina Penney takes her readers into the life of Beth Poole, a dog trainer who lives in England. Beth recently lost her sister to the Big C and has herself been in recovery after discovering that she too had breast cancer – and then there was the fact that her ex-husband couldn’t handle her diagnosis. After all her grief, loss, pain and suffering, she has become a shadow of her former self and lives for working with her various four-legged clients and spending time with her own furry friend.
Living with her inimitable grandmother Violet (who I absolutely loved!) and grandfather Louis eases her pain somewhat as they make her comfortable and shower her with lots of love … and some pretty quirky gifts too!
Their latest gift to her? A ticket to the land down under, a place that the Aussie-soap-addicted Violet is fascinated with … and Beth is terrified of – after all, Australia is home to the most dangerous animals in the world!
It soon becomes apparent however that the Margaret River wine region, even with its host of scary creatures, is also salve for Beth’s soul and she begins to relax, socialise, make friends her own age – and somehow manage to get two men to vie for her attention.
Enter Clayton Hardy who is the turning point in Beth’s life when their tentative friendship turns into something more. She slowly begins to reawaken as her and Clayton get closer but as her holiday draws to an end, all her negative body-image issues and old doubts about herself as a woman and person re-surface – was Clayton just enjoying a no-strings attached holiday fling and will any man ever be able to accept her for the woman she has become?
After reading Georgina Penney’s second novel, Fly in Fly Out (my review here), I just knew that she was going to be an author to watch and one that I would seek out when I needed a comfort read. I’m happy to say that she has lived up to this expectation and her latest didn’t fail to draw me in and keep me entertained throughout.
I think what I enjoy most about Georgina’s novels are that her subject choices are almost always close to real life and her characters so three-dimensional that they appear to be plucked right out of our own world. I related to Beth on so many levels, but one of the things that really got me going was her fear of Australia’s “dangerous animals” because I, myself, had the same fears before we immigrated to Australia and I couldn’t help giggling each time she encountered one of our lethal creatures and I became privy to the confusion in Clayton’s mind.
Georgina also captivates her audience early on by creating some fantastic secondary characters to help Beth along her way – of course, there’s Beth’s eccentric grandmother Violet who thrives on gossip, no matter where you are in the world; Louis, her lovable and always-willing-to-please grandfather; Laura, who can talk the hind legs off a donkey; Jeff, who may or may not be competing for Beth’s attentions; and who could forget Fred the stoner who may just have had something to do with a sheep driving a tractor!
All of these characters (and more) help to bring the novel full-circle and, by adding a further sub-plot involving Clayton’s father, Rob, and Gwen who comes to work for the winery, Georgina makes the story that more interesting - but I’ll leave this exciting little tid-bit for you to discover.
Narrated in a light-hearted voice, Summer Harvest does take on a heavy theme and, whilst Beth’s emotional well-being is despairing, Georgina’s novel is not because ultimately it is a story of hope, self-discovery, self-acceptance and moving on. Yes, there are poignant moments scattered throughout (one scene in which Clayton studies Beth’s facial features comes to mind – Say. No. More.) but with Georgina’s apt descriptions, steamy sex scenes and hilarious dialogue, it takes this novel to new heights and will have you turning the pages long into the night to see if they do or if they don’t.
If you’re in the mood for a great rom-com with an issue at its heart that this accomplished author has delicately and sensitively dealt with, then Georgina Penney is definitely an author you need to seek out. Her books are guaranteed to give you lots of reading fun and leave you with hope in your heart and a smile on your face.
In Summer Harvest (which is loosely linked to both the author's prior books Irrepressible You and Fly In Fly Out), Georgina Penney takes her readers into the life of Beth Poole, a dog trainer who lives in England. Beth recently lost her sister to the Big C and has herself been in recovery after discovering that she too had breast cancer – and then there was the fact that her ex-husband couldn’t handle her diagnosis. After all her grief, loss, pain and suffering, she has become a shadow of her former self and lives for working with her various four-legged clients and spending time with her own furry friend.
Living with her inimitable grandmother Violet (who I absolutely loved!) and grandfather Louis eases her pain somewhat as they make her comfortable and shower her with lots of love … and some pretty quirky gifts too!
Their latest gift to her? A ticket to the land down under, a place that the Aussie-soap-addicted Violet is fascinated with … and Beth is terrified of – after all, Australia is home to the most dangerous animals in the world!
It soon becomes apparent however that the Margaret River wine region, even with its host of scary creatures, is also salve for Beth’s soul and she begins to relax, socialise, make friends her own age – and somehow manage to get two men to vie for her attention.
Enter Clayton Hardy who is the turning point in Beth’s life when their tentative friendship turns into something more. She slowly begins to reawaken as her and Clayton get closer but as her holiday draws to an end, all her negative body-image issues and old doubts about herself as a woman and person re-surface – was Clayton just enjoying a no-strings attached holiday fling and will any man ever be able to accept her for the woman she has become?
After reading Georgina Penney’s second novel, Fly in Fly Out (my review here), I just knew that she was going to be an author to watch and one that I would seek out when I needed a comfort read. I’m happy to say that she has lived up to this expectation and her latest didn’t fail to draw me in and keep me entertained throughout.
I think what I enjoy most about Georgina’s novels are that her subject choices are almost always close to real life and her characters so three-dimensional that they appear to be plucked right out of our own world. I related to Beth on so many levels, but one of the things that really got me going was her fear of Australia’s “dangerous animals” because I, myself, had the same fears before we immigrated to Australia and I couldn’t help giggling each time she encountered one of our lethal creatures and I became privy to the confusion in Clayton’s mind.
Georgina also captivates her audience early on by creating some fantastic secondary characters to help Beth along her way – of course, there’s Beth’s eccentric grandmother Violet who thrives on gossip, no matter where you are in the world; Louis, her lovable and always-willing-to-please grandfather; Laura, who can talk the hind legs off a donkey; Jeff, who may or may not be competing for Beth’s attentions; and who could forget Fred the stoner who may just have had something to do with a sheep driving a tractor!
All of these characters (and more) help to bring the novel full-circle and, by adding a further sub-plot involving Clayton’s father, Rob, and Gwen who comes to work for the winery, Georgina makes the story that more interesting - but I’ll leave this exciting little tid-bit for you to discover.
Narrated in a light-hearted voice, Summer Harvest does take on a heavy theme and, whilst Beth’s emotional well-being is despairing, Georgina’s novel is not because ultimately it is a story of hope, self-discovery, self-acceptance and moving on. Yes, there are poignant moments scattered throughout (one scene in which Clayton studies Beth’s facial features comes to mind – Say. No. More.) but with Georgina’s apt descriptions, steamy sex scenes and hilarious dialogue, it takes this novel to new heights and will have you turning the pages long into the night to see if they do or if they don’t.
If you’re in the mood for a great rom-com with an issue at its heart that this accomplished author has delicately and sensitively dealt with, then Georgina Penney is definitely an author you need to seek out. Her books are guaranteed to give you lots of reading fun and leave you with hope in your heart and a smile on your face.
February 24, 2016
In my year of reading (mostly) romance novels, I came across one of Georgina Penney's novels, "Irrepressible You", a novel a enjoyed a great deal. So when I saw her latest novel on NetGalley, I jumped at the opportunity to read it.
"Summer Harvest" was enjoyable, albeit predictable. At times, I had a strong feeling of deja vu. Sure, the romance genre is one of the most formulaic genres, we all know that in the end, the guy gets the girl or vice-versa. So since we know the ending, it's fair to expect that the characters and the plot will be what make the novel interesting.
Our main characters are Beth Poole, a British dog trainer and Clayton Hardy, a winemaker/farmer in the beautiful region of Margaret River, Western Australia.
Beth is gifted return airplane tickets to Perth, Western Australia so she ends in this part of the world. She doesn't visit the city even for one day, preferring to head out the Margaret River region where she rented a cottage for the duration of her stay.
That's where she meets Clayton, who's single, 35 years-old and that's pretty much all there is to say about him. Ah, and he's built like a rugby player. The attraction is almost instant. And things develop. Obviously. I won't say much more as I'll spoil it for you.
The novel is very readable, albeit somewhat forgettable. The writing is competent. Unfortunately, "Summer Harvest" just didn't have the spark that I wanted/expected, partly because the characters were kind of ordinary/boring.
Nevertheless, this would make for a good companion on a long flight or a day at the beach. It only took me a few hours to finish.
3-3.5 stars
I've received this novel via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Penguin Publishing Australia for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
Cover: 4 stars, although... I'm of the opinion that if you are going to use a real person on the cover, make it look like the main character. In this case, Beth has short blondish hair. And I don't remember her doing much grape-picking. Also, the title is kind of random - just saying.
"Summer Harvest" was enjoyable, albeit predictable. At times, I had a strong feeling of deja vu. Sure, the romance genre is one of the most formulaic genres, we all know that in the end, the guy gets the girl or vice-versa. So since we know the ending, it's fair to expect that the characters and the plot will be what make the novel interesting.
Our main characters are Beth Poole, a British dog trainer and Clayton Hardy, a winemaker/farmer in the beautiful region of Margaret River, Western Australia.
Beth is gifted return airplane tickets to Perth, Western Australia so she ends in this part of the world. She doesn't visit the city even for one day, preferring to head out the Margaret River region where she rented a cottage for the duration of her stay.
That's where she meets Clayton, who's single, 35 years-old and that's pretty much all there is to say about him. Ah, and he's built like a rugby player. The attraction is almost instant. And things develop. Obviously. I won't say much more as I'll spoil it for you.
The novel is very readable, albeit somewhat forgettable. The writing is competent. Unfortunately, "Summer Harvest" just didn't have the spark that I wanted/expected, partly because the characters were kind of ordinary/boring.
Nevertheless, this would make for a good companion on a long flight or a day at the beach. It only took me a few hours to finish.
3-3.5 stars
I've received this novel via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Penguin Publishing Australia for the opportunity to read and review this novel.
Cover: 4 stars, although... I'm of the opinion that if you are going to use a real person on the cover, make it look like the main character. In this case, Beth has short blondish hair. And I don't remember her doing much grape-picking. Also, the title is kind of random - just saying.
February 16, 2016
Expect entertainment, laughter and touching moments in Summer Harvest by Georgina Penney (Fly In Fly Out). Set in the beautiful Margaret River region (one of my favourite places), it’s a story of love and lust among the grapevines, complete with interfering family members, deadly Australian creatures, fisticuffs, puppies, and between-the-sheets escapades.
After being dumped by her husband when he found out she had breast cancer, Beth Poole is in a rut. She’s beaten the illness, divorced her loser husband, and moved in with her grandmother, but has no plans to have a life of her own. Luckily her grandmother, Violet, has plans; she sends Beth to Perth, Australia for some rest and relaxation, on the proviso that Beth gives her plenty of good gossip to talk about. Why didn’t her grandmother buy her a ticket to Australia’s east coast, she wonders. How do people survive in a country that’s “bloody hot” and teeming with deadly creatures? Has the heat sent them bonkers?
When Clayton Hardy nearly runs into Beth’s car on the side of the road, his first thought is that she is the one who’s bonkers. Inappropriate clothing for the climate … parking on a blind corner in the middle of nowhere. Bloody tourists, he thinks. But when he runs into Beth at his family-owned vineyard, he soon has other ways to describe her. Like, “not too bad” in the looks department, with a “compact backside” covered in a “sexy stack of a dress”, who smells “so good, vanilla-y fresh”. Pretty soon, Beth’s “pretty damn irresistable”. The two embark on a steamy affair that’s complicated by Beth’s hangup about her mastectomy, Clayton’s boisterous family, and miscommunication. Is this just a summer fling? Will the past repeat itself? Or will Clayton and Beth take their relationship to the next level?
I enjoy Penney’s writing. As with Fly In Fly Out, Summer Harvest is laced with self-deprecating Aussie humour, peopled with appealing and entertaining characters (Violet was my favourite), and set in a beautiful part of Western Australia. It felt familiar, and I do like that in a book now and then. She’s added depth with themes of loss and grief; the corresponding cancer-related storyline gives a very real insight into the reactive behaviour of such a diagnosis on others, as well as the psychological effects that can linger with survivors (and their families). The one thing I want to know is how the Hardy family had so many arguments at the vineyard, but never in front of the general public … pure luck?
Overall, an engaging and funny read, with plenty of romance, steamy romps, and the quintessential relaxed Aussie vibe. Enjoy it with a glass of wine – preferably from Margaret River. I can recommend the Swings and Roundabouts Chenin Blanc.
After being dumped by her husband when he found out she had breast cancer, Beth Poole is in a rut. She’s beaten the illness, divorced her loser husband, and moved in with her grandmother, but has no plans to have a life of her own. Luckily her grandmother, Violet, has plans; she sends Beth to Perth, Australia for some rest and relaxation, on the proviso that Beth gives her plenty of good gossip to talk about. Why didn’t her grandmother buy her a ticket to Australia’s east coast, she wonders. How do people survive in a country that’s “bloody hot” and teeming with deadly creatures? Has the heat sent them bonkers?
When Clayton Hardy nearly runs into Beth’s car on the side of the road, his first thought is that she is the one who’s bonkers. Inappropriate clothing for the climate … parking on a blind corner in the middle of nowhere. Bloody tourists, he thinks. But when he runs into Beth at his family-owned vineyard, he soon has other ways to describe her. Like, “not too bad” in the looks department, with a “compact backside” covered in a “sexy stack of a dress”, who smells “so good, vanilla-y fresh”. Pretty soon, Beth’s “pretty damn irresistable”. The two embark on a steamy affair that’s complicated by Beth’s hangup about her mastectomy, Clayton’s boisterous family, and miscommunication. Is this just a summer fling? Will the past repeat itself? Or will Clayton and Beth take their relationship to the next level?
I enjoy Penney’s writing. As with Fly In Fly Out, Summer Harvest is laced with self-deprecating Aussie humour, peopled with appealing and entertaining characters (Violet was my favourite), and set in a beautiful part of Western Australia. It felt familiar, and I do like that in a book now and then. She’s added depth with themes of loss and grief; the corresponding cancer-related storyline gives a very real insight into the reactive behaviour of such a diagnosis on others, as well as the psychological effects that can linger with survivors (and their families). The one thing I want to know is how the Hardy family had so many arguments at the vineyard, but never in front of the general public … pure luck?
Overall, an engaging and funny read, with plenty of romance, steamy romps, and the quintessential relaxed Aussie vibe. Enjoy it with a glass of wine – preferably from Margaret River. I can recommend the Swings and Roundabouts Chenin Blanc.
February 2, 2016
Summer Harvest is a gorgeous story exploring the effects of grief. It is by no means sad, although it is beautifully emotional and evocative. Clayton and Beth grieve even as they’re enclosed within close families where the humour is genuine and the love clear.
There are wonderful characters in this story, not just Clayton and Beth. Beth’s Gran is a riot and Laura takes over this role when Beth’s in Australia. But my favourite character had a very minor role but every time he was on the page, I snorted with laughter – look out for Fred the stoner!
The dogs who populate the story are great and give Beth real depth. Waffles is just gorgeous, but I loved the Jack Russell and the Bulldog :)
The grieving exploration isn't rushed. It's explored thoughtfully and thoroughly. It seemed real, when often in books it can feel artificial, something to make the story work. This was a very real part of both characters and the story.
There are fabulous lines, great descriptions, and beautiful writing. It’s one of those books you never want to finish – but the last line made me laugh, so the end was perfect.
I hope enjoy this book as much as I did.
There are wonderful characters in this story, not just Clayton and Beth. Beth’s Gran is a riot and Laura takes over this role when Beth’s in Australia. But my favourite character had a very minor role but every time he was on the page, I snorted with laughter – look out for Fred the stoner!
The dogs who populate the story are great and give Beth real depth. Waffles is just gorgeous, but I loved the Jack Russell and the Bulldog :)
The grieving exploration isn't rushed. It's explored thoughtfully and thoroughly. It seemed real, when often in books it can feel artificial, something to make the story work. This was a very real part of both characters and the story.
There are fabulous lines, great descriptions, and beautiful writing. It’s one of those books you never want to finish – but the last line made me laugh, so the end was perfect.
I hope enjoy this book as much as I did.
December 17, 2015
I'm telling you all - you are in for a real treat when you get the chance to read Summer Harvest. Not just because I am an epic fan of Georgina Penney, not just because it is set in the beautiful Margaret River region, and not just because I may have discovered my new spirit animal in the form of the fabulous Violet. You will love it because it is simply a fantastic story.
I loved watching Beth grow and change throughout the story, and it was so nice to see how fallibly human Clayton was. Fab chemistry between these two. I'm not going all spoilerish, because it's not out yet, however you can expect romance, emotion, self-discovery, and some wonderfully bolshy old ladies (Violet cracked me up).
Get out there and pre-order, folks! You won't be disappointed!
I loved watching Beth grow and change throughout the story, and it was so nice to see how fallibly human Clayton was. Fab chemistry between these two. I'm not going all spoilerish, because it's not out yet, however you can expect romance, emotion, self-discovery, and some wonderfully bolshy old ladies (Violet cracked me up).
Get out there and pre-order, folks! You won't be disappointed!
January 31, 2016
I loved the familiar Australian setting and the small town rural feel. I seem to be drawn to these vineyard romances lately. I loved Beth, a wonderful blend of worldly and naive. I'd love to have a cuppa with her, but I think I'd trust her tea more than her coffee. The romance was quite raunchy and I enjoyed the strong themes of mateship. The topic of cancer was handled very well, exploring the issues of body image and what life is like as a survivor.
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2016
When Yorkshire based Beth receives a gift from her grandmother, the feisty Violet, of a plane ticket to Australia, she reluctantly accepts. Violet’s idea is a whirlwind tour of the East coast in a style and setting as close to her favourite Aussie soap as possible. The plan goes awry, however, leaving Beth destined for Western Australia, specifically the beautiful Margaret River area. Beth takes full advantage of this mix up, planning to spend her holiday hiding away in a rented farm cottage, alone.
Only Beth’s peace is quickly shattered by the locals, in particular the handsome head of the cottage’s neighbouring vineyard, Clayton Hardy.
The reason for Beth’s pursuit of isolation and relaxation is soon apparent. She’s recently recovered from breast cancer. The disease took its toll on her life in more ways than one. She lost her sister, her breasts, and her confidence after her husband left her as he was unable to come to terms with her new ‘disfigurement’.
Reading that again, I realise this book had such great potential and at the halfway mark I thought it would reach it. Alas, somehow in there Penney lost me (and perhaps the plot).
I was eager to read this book because I love the trope of angst involved with older characters trying to negotiate sex with new partners later in life. Here I was getting the added heartache of Beth’s hang ups and secrets she feels she can’t reveal but in the end must to pursue a sexual relationship. Unfortunately, the premise of Beth hiding the truth about her body was more interesting than how it turned out in print. It didn’t make me emotional at all. Towards the end, their scenes just seemed to drag on and on.
I think I blame the fact I didn’t fall in love with either Beth or Clayton. She was a little socially awkward, he needed anger management. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t hate either of them, but I could have done with less of them. Which isn’t how I’m supposed to feel about a book’s main characters.
Despite the promise, their intimate scenes were not remarkable. In the end, her illness was not a huge factor and their ages were irrelevant (in fact they often read like characters in their early 20s).
Saving the book for me was the inclusion of some real older characters and their older people romance. Clayton’s dad, Robert (the parent from which Clayton gets his fiery temper from) who, right from the start, is obviously in love with family friend, Gwen. I liked their storyline much better and would have preferred the book if they were the main characters (but, you know, publishers insist on force feeding us young love -- blah). Their negotiating intimacy and overcoming their past was much better written.
There's also a sweet subplot of Clayton’s grandmother’s romance that I would have liked Penney to expand upon.
I liked the Aussie setting, obviously, but I feel Penney could have taken advantage of the Margaret River area even more than she did.
All in all I enjoyed the book, but with a few tweaks I think I would have enjoyed it more.
3 ½ out of 5
Only Beth’s peace is quickly shattered by the locals, in particular the handsome head of the cottage’s neighbouring vineyard, Clayton Hardy.
The reason for Beth’s pursuit of isolation and relaxation is soon apparent. She’s recently recovered from breast cancer. The disease took its toll on her life in more ways than one. She lost her sister, her breasts, and her confidence after her husband left her as he was unable to come to terms with her new ‘disfigurement’.
Reading that again, I realise this book had such great potential and at the halfway mark I thought it would reach it. Alas, somehow in there Penney lost me (and perhaps the plot).
I was eager to read this book because I love the trope of angst involved with older characters trying to negotiate sex with new partners later in life. Here I was getting the added heartache of Beth’s hang ups and secrets she feels she can’t reveal but in the end must to pursue a sexual relationship. Unfortunately, the premise of Beth hiding the truth about her body was more interesting than how it turned out in print. It didn’t make me emotional at all. Towards the end, their scenes just seemed to drag on and on.
I think I blame the fact I didn’t fall in love with either Beth or Clayton. She was a little socially awkward, he needed anger management. Don’t get me wrong, I didn’t hate either of them, but I could have done with less of them. Which isn’t how I’m supposed to feel about a book’s main characters.
Despite the promise, their intimate scenes were not remarkable. In the end, her illness was not a huge factor and their ages were irrelevant (in fact they often read like characters in their early 20s).
Saving the book for me was the inclusion of some real older characters and their older people romance. Clayton’s dad, Robert (the parent from which Clayton gets his fiery temper from) who, right from the start, is obviously in love with family friend, Gwen. I liked their storyline much better and would have preferred the book if they were the main characters (but, you know, publishers insist on force feeding us young love -- blah). Their negotiating intimacy and overcoming their past was much better written.
There's also a sweet subplot of Clayton’s grandmother’s romance that I would have liked Penney to expand upon.
I liked the Aussie setting, obviously, but I feel Penney could have taken advantage of the Margaret River area even more than she did.
All in all I enjoyed the book, but with a few tweaks I think I would have enjoyed it more.
3 ½ out of 5
December 9, 2015
This is another wonderful read from Georgina Penney. I’m a big fan of her writing and have read her previous two books using characters and settings from the Hardy family and the Margaret River wine region.
Summer Harvest begins at a slow and gentle pace when English-born Beth journeys reluctantly to Australia for a holiday at the bequest of her grandmother Violet. Beth is a cancer-survivor, but as the book unfolds she begins to realize how much she has only been ‘surviving’ and how little she has been ‘living’. Beth’s discovery of her self-worth, helped by the admiration of winemaker and farmer, Clayton Hardy, is beautiful in the way it unfolds.
Beth is a character I warmed to immediately. She’s a bit of a stereotype in her fear of Australia and its ‘animals that can kill you’ (snakes/spiders & sharks), but some of the scenes involving Beth’s fear of things that go bump in the bush in the night had me giggling out loud. It’s especially effective when we get a glimpse of Clayton’s point of view. He has no idea why Beth is so afraid to get out of his car (for example) when he takes her on a late night picnic into their vineyard.
The conflict that arises between Beth and Clayton is believable. Beth’s ex-husband couldn’t handle her cancer surgery and recovery and Beth is afraid that Clayton might also run a mile when he discovers her medical history. It’s compounded for Clayton because his mother died of leukemia when he was a boy.
There’s a lovely secondary plot in Summer Harvest involving Clayton’s father, Rob, and a cellar door worker at Evangaline’s Rest winery, Gwen.
It’s also nice to see Jo and Stephen from Fly In, Fly Out, make cameo appearances in Summer Harvest. It’s Christmas time and all the far-flung Hardy’s are coming home for the holidays.
If I have one grizzle, it’s the use of the fictional town George Creek in a book where other place names are factual. For example, Busselton gets a mention as does Margaret River as its wine region. I’d like to see ‘Margaret River’ named instead of George Creek, but that’s a carryover from previous stories in this series and it’s no big deal.
I recommend Summer Harvest for relaxed summer reading, with a glass of wine close to hand. Georgina Penney has a knack for bringing her heroes to their knees, and when Clayton comes to realise how much he's at risk of losing Beth... well, I had to reach for the tissues.
5 smiley stars from me.
Summer Harvest begins at a slow and gentle pace when English-born Beth journeys reluctantly to Australia for a holiday at the bequest of her grandmother Violet. Beth is a cancer-survivor, but as the book unfolds she begins to realize how much she has only been ‘surviving’ and how little she has been ‘living’. Beth’s discovery of her self-worth, helped by the admiration of winemaker and farmer, Clayton Hardy, is beautiful in the way it unfolds.
Beth is a character I warmed to immediately. She’s a bit of a stereotype in her fear of Australia and its ‘animals that can kill you’ (snakes/spiders & sharks), but some of the scenes involving Beth’s fear of things that go bump in the bush in the night had me giggling out loud. It’s especially effective when we get a glimpse of Clayton’s point of view. He has no idea why Beth is so afraid to get out of his car (for example) when he takes her on a late night picnic into their vineyard.
The conflict that arises between Beth and Clayton is believable. Beth’s ex-husband couldn’t handle her cancer surgery and recovery and Beth is afraid that Clayton might also run a mile when he discovers her medical history. It’s compounded for Clayton because his mother died of leukemia when he was a boy.
There’s a lovely secondary plot in Summer Harvest involving Clayton’s father, Rob, and a cellar door worker at Evangaline’s Rest winery, Gwen.
It’s also nice to see Jo and Stephen from Fly In, Fly Out, make cameo appearances in Summer Harvest. It’s Christmas time and all the far-flung Hardy’s are coming home for the holidays.
If I have one grizzle, it’s the use of the fictional town George Creek in a book where other place names are factual. For example, Busselton gets a mention as does Margaret River as its wine region. I’d like to see ‘Margaret River’ named instead of George Creek, but that’s a carryover from previous stories in this series and it’s no big deal.
I recommend Summer Harvest for relaxed summer reading, with a glass of wine close to hand. Georgina Penney has a knack for bringing her heroes to their knees, and when Clayton comes to realise how much he's at risk of losing Beth... well, I had to reach for the tissues.
5 smiley stars from me.
April 3, 2016
This was a great "fish out of water" rural romance. Beth, a cancer survivor, is sent from England to the Margaret River district of Western Australia for a holiday. Here she meets Clayton who works on his family vineyard next door to where she's staying.
There were many things I loved about this book - colourful well-written secondary characters, not shying away from difficult topics like cancer and body image, and the many romance sub-plots. I'm a big fan of older characters having their love story too!
Summer Harvest features characters from Penney's first book, Fly In, Fly Out but you don't need to have read that one first. I really hope there's a 3rd book coming!
There were many things I loved about this book - colourful well-written secondary characters, not shying away from difficult topics like cancer and body image, and the many romance sub-plots. I'm a big fan of older characters having their love story too!
Summer Harvest features characters from Penney's first book, Fly In, Fly Out but you don't need to have read that one first. I really hope there's a 3rd book coming!
February 3, 2017
A charming romance between Aussie bloke and English professional woman. Great summer reading.
March 21, 2018
Beth hasn't had a proper holiday in so many years. She is a dog trainer and works very hard in her career. She is a survivor of breast cancer and a new divorcee, she is in need of a well earned holiday vacation. she has a surprise gift from her ever loving grandmother to take a trip to Western Australia.
We are met by Clayton Hardy who almost runs into Beth's car on the side of the road. There is a connection but he sort of thinks she is bonkers. His family own a wine vineyard next door to where Beth is staying while on her vacation.
Summer Harvest promises a reading frenzy offers yummy tasty course meals, that leave you filled and wanting extra desert whilst wiping your dirty mouth with an expensive napkin.
We are met by Clayton Hardy who almost runs into Beth's car on the side of the road. There is a connection but he sort of thinks she is bonkers. His family own a wine vineyard next door to where Beth is staying while on her vacation.
Summer Harvest promises a reading frenzy offers yummy tasty course meals, that leave you filled and wanting extra desert whilst wiping your dirty mouth with an expensive napkin.
January 22, 2016
Readers were acquainted with the Hardy's in Fly In Fly Out by Georgina Penney which was an awesome read on its own and Summer Harvest was even better! I loved Beth's internal monologue which often had me laughing out loud! :D Clayton and Jeff's conversations were tense and comical throughout the read :D Laura and Beth's antics had this reader rapt. There were so many underlying stories within the main story with its secondary characters and to say secondary characters is a stretch as all of the characters had their pivotal role in the book. Violet and Louis were a hoot from the start! Rob and Clayton's discussions came close to waterworks and definitely pulled at the heartstrings a few times for this reader. Rachael and Jeff have so many sparks with much hidden history - (there's a storythere :) ) and the sizzling passion between Beth and Clayton was steamy throughout and their journey in the story had its share of tension and humour. Summer Harvest was an all round wonderfully superb read from author Georgina Penney that I completely immersed in.
Review copy kindly received from the Publisher
Review copy kindly received from the Publisher
March 15, 2016
I've stopped reading romances (I like a plot driven book with some meat to it) but read this on holiday & in the romance genre it does some great things - easy reading. Great locale, good characters. What I really liked was she also tackles some bigger issues, & though in a light way, great to have them out there in popular novels.
August 6, 2017
Summer Harvest is a contemporary romance novel set in the the south west region of Australia. I like a lot of novels like this, which are set in either England or Australia because you can not only learn a great deal but also it is very interesting.
Beth meets Clayton after he helps her with a puncture in her tyre. When they first me, Beth is some what nervous and almost intimidated by his good looks, as you get further into the book, you really start to decide whether or not you like the characters and if they have the tendency to grow on you. I liked Beth, mainly because she's a dog person and I can connect to that. She's a strong character because of her loss of family, her parents dying quite young and then her sister recently. Her ex-husband whom she might have loved once and even shared things with but they'd since grown apart in their adult life, left her after her diagnosis of breast cancer and his ignorance in learning his wife would be breast less in that department, could quite possibly be the icing on the cake. Time to go forth and to a new destination.
Clayton is a strong character also, he falls for Beth and stops at nothing at first to have her. However, he disappointed me when he wasn't willing to challenge his feelings, he clearly liked Beth and wouldn't have a conversation about any of the important things. He also irritated me when he became moody with Beth instead of doing something about it. Beth clearly needed answers and he just got all mardy and when she left - he didn't chase her.
Rule 101 - if she starts to take flight, grab her wings. Never leave on a bad word.
I was a little disappointed in Beth not wanting to go and see the sights at first (that is the explorer in me) but I can totally understand at the same time why she might not. Australia really brought her out of her shell and taught her about needing to look after herself, not just because of the cancer but also because she was human being. In many ways, hiding in baggy mature clothes made me feel that she could relate to a sexual assault victim. By covering herself up, she was safe from harm and possibly even her cancer returning, she wanted to go through life wrapping up in cotton wool in a means of a self defence mechanism to protect herself, from the return of the cancer, from the devastating desertion, to protect herself from her true feelings of love but fearing of rejection. She wasn't always very good at explaining why she needed to do that and I suspect it was all the hurt she suffered when her ex-husband had identified his own needs rather than her own on coping with her illness. It really made me feel for Beth after I made that connection / interpretation and I only began to love her more when she reacquainted with her back bone.
I felt the ending would be pleasing for constant readers of this genre but it was a little too abrupt for me, I felt a mix of feelings at a marriage proposal from Clayton, I understand completely why he did it. But neither one of them had established excellent communication techniques and I feel maybe she should have just decided to try a relationship with him before marriage but that's just my opinion. Let's hope Clayton pulls his finger out, because sometimes he really needed a slap with a wet fish. I think he needed to be a bit more forthcoming and confident. That only happened when he was in his comfort zone.
The other events that occurred in the story with Laura, Jo and Beth's friendship also really impressed me, I loved how Beth was able to travel across the world and make new friends, spend time with people her own age and even get some shopping done. She seemed so uptight when she first got to Australia but she soon began to flourish in the warm Australian sun. The sub plot between Angie (Clayton's grandmother), Rob (his father) and Gwen (an old friend) really added a divide up between just reading about Beth and Clayton's fling - it really helped to see how loss and grief can affect all parties involved in ways we don't always recognise and that even the young can help the older and more experienced people in life. The emphasis on moving forward was a bit part of the plot in this book and whilst grief and loss are deeply explored and show in many of the characters, there is so much to learn from moving forward that the reader might not always connect with until the very end of this book.
I really, really enjoyed this book! I sort of borrowed it on a whim. 4 am, unable to sleep.. don't want to physically borrow a book but the ability to use the library without moving from my bed and read a book I don't have to physically cramp up to.. meant it was a top choice!
I have to say, I totally borrowed it based on the cover, which drew me in but the blurb seemed so easy to get into and I thought I'd give it a whirl. I am so glad I did!
I read it in just 3 days, I thought the writing was exceptionally good, especially some of the sexy scenes, Georgina Penney really knows how to get the descriptions going but also she knows how to get the reader to hang on every last word! I really loved her writing style and from a good experience will look up her other works.
4/5 stars from me.
Beth meets Clayton after he helps her with a puncture in her tyre. When they first me, Beth is some what nervous and almost intimidated by his good looks, as you get further into the book, you really start to decide whether or not you like the characters and if they have the tendency to grow on you. I liked Beth, mainly because she's a dog person and I can connect to that. She's a strong character because of her loss of family, her parents dying quite young and then her sister recently. Her ex-husband whom she might have loved once and even shared things with but they'd since grown apart in their adult life, left her after her diagnosis of breast cancer and his ignorance in learning his wife would be breast less in that department, could quite possibly be the icing on the cake. Time to go forth and to a new destination.
Clayton is a strong character also, he falls for Beth and stops at nothing at first to have her. However, he disappointed me when he wasn't willing to challenge his feelings, he clearly liked Beth and wouldn't have a conversation about any of the important things. He also irritated me when he became moody with Beth instead of doing something about it. Beth clearly needed answers and he just got all mardy and when she left - he didn't chase her.
Rule 101 - if she starts to take flight, grab her wings. Never leave on a bad word.
I was a little disappointed in Beth not wanting to go and see the sights at first (that is the explorer in me) but I can totally understand at the same time why she might not. Australia really brought her out of her shell and taught her about needing to look after herself, not just because of the cancer but also because she was human being. In many ways, hiding in baggy mature clothes made me feel that she could relate to a sexual assault victim. By covering herself up, she was safe from harm and possibly even her cancer returning, she wanted to go through life wrapping up in cotton wool in a means of a self defence mechanism to protect herself, from the return of the cancer, from the devastating desertion, to protect herself from her true feelings of love but fearing of rejection. She wasn't always very good at explaining why she needed to do that and I suspect it was all the hurt she suffered when her ex-husband had identified his own needs rather than her own on coping with her illness. It really made me feel for Beth after I made that connection / interpretation and I only began to love her more when she reacquainted with her back bone.
I felt the ending would be pleasing for constant readers of this genre but it was a little too abrupt for me, I felt a mix of feelings at a marriage proposal from Clayton, I understand completely why he did it. But neither one of them had established excellent communication techniques and I feel maybe she should have just decided to try a relationship with him before marriage but that's just my opinion. Let's hope Clayton pulls his finger out, because sometimes he really needed a slap with a wet fish. I think he needed to be a bit more forthcoming and confident. That only happened when he was in his comfort zone.
The other events that occurred in the story with Laura, Jo and Beth's friendship also really impressed me, I loved how Beth was able to travel across the world and make new friends, spend time with people her own age and even get some shopping done. She seemed so uptight when she first got to Australia but she soon began to flourish in the warm Australian sun. The sub plot between Angie (Clayton's grandmother), Rob (his father) and Gwen (an old friend) really added a divide up between just reading about Beth and Clayton's fling - it really helped to see how loss and grief can affect all parties involved in ways we don't always recognise and that even the young can help the older and more experienced people in life. The emphasis on moving forward was a bit part of the plot in this book and whilst grief and loss are deeply explored and show in many of the characters, there is so much to learn from moving forward that the reader might not always connect with until the very end of this book.
I really, really enjoyed this book! I sort of borrowed it on a whim. 4 am, unable to sleep.. don't want to physically borrow a book but the ability to use the library without moving from my bed and read a book I don't have to physically cramp up to.. meant it was a top choice!
I have to say, I totally borrowed it based on the cover, which drew me in but the blurb seemed so easy to get into and I thought I'd give it a whirl. I am so glad I did!
I read it in just 3 days, I thought the writing was exceptionally good, especially some of the sexy scenes, Georgina Penney really knows how to get the descriptions going but also she knows how to get the reader to hang on every last word! I really loved her writing style and from a good experience will look up her other works.
4/5 stars from me.
March 30, 2018
2018 POPSUGAR Reading Challenge
#20 read a book by a local author
Violet is obsessed with the Australian soap Summer Love, set in the fictional town of Radiant Bay somewhere on the East Coast. She is somewhat eccentric and used to getting her own way, so when she buys tickets to Australia for her insulated, workaholic granddaughter to finally take a holiday, Beth doesn't stand a chance. When it comes to light that the tickets are in fact for Western Australia and not somewhere on the East Coast, Beth is confused by the choice and Violet is furious at her husband for messing up the one thing she tasked him.
At this point I laughed so hard I had to put the book down for a little while. Living in Perth, I can totally understand the indignation. This all happens in the first 8 pages so I don't feel like I need a spoiler tag here.
Beth has no idea what she's meant to do for two months on the wrong side of a country where anything and everything can kill you. (She's a little paranoid of our fauna.) Deciding to at least try and enjoy her first holiday, Beth drives down from Perth to George Creek (again, fictional) in the Margaret River region. When she's close to the cottage she rented, Beth gets a flat tyre and our heroic love interest almost runs her down. He rescues the girl (by changing her tyre for her) who then drives off in a glass slipper scenario, leaving her jack and wrench on the side of the road. Clayton (heroic love interest) picks up her stuff, George Creek is a small place after all, he'll give them back when he finds out how.
There's a lot more going on than the above, but as you can see, it's a very formulaic romantic plot. What Penney manages to do with it though tugged at my heartstrings like a master playing a lyre. I haven't cried so hard while reading since 2005 when . I truly felt for Beth and loved the fact that all the characters were well rounded and living their own lives. The supporting characters have their own problems and are not there just to support Beth and Clayton's relationship, but to enrich the narrative as a whole. The other characters and Beth's own battle made it feel so much more real and hit me incredibly hard.
Summer Harvest is equal parts funny and serious, but most of all, it's real. If you ever get the chance, please read this book (and keep a box of tissues handy for the last 50 pages or so).
#20 read a book by a local author
Violet is obsessed with the Australian soap Summer Love, set in the fictional town of Radiant Bay somewhere on the East Coast. She is somewhat eccentric and used to getting her own way, so when she buys tickets to Australia for her insulated, workaholic granddaughter to finally take a holiday, Beth doesn't stand a chance. When it comes to light that the tickets are in fact for Western Australia and not somewhere on the East Coast, Beth is confused by the choice and Violet is furious at her husband for messing up the one thing she tasked him.
At this point I laughed so hard I had to put the book down for a little while. Living in Perth, I can totally understand the indignation. This all happens in the first 8 pages so I don't feel like I need a spoiler tag here.
Beth has no idea what she's meant to do for two months on the wrong side of a country where anything and everything can kill you. (She's a little paranoid of our fauna.) Deciding to at least try and enjoy her first holiday, Beth drives down from Perth to George Creek (again, fictional) in the Margaret River region. When she's close to the cottage she rented, Beth gets a flat tyre and our heroic love interest almost runs her down. He rescues the girl (by changing her tyre for her) who then drives off in a glass slipper scenario, leaving her jack and wrench on the side of the road. Clayton (heroic love interest) picks up her stuff, George Creek is a small place after all, he'll give them back when he finds out how.
There's a lot more going on than the above, but as you can see, it's a very formulaic romantic plot. What Penney manages to do with it though tugged at my heartstrings like a master playing a lyre. I haven't cried so hard while reading since 2005 when . I truly felt for Beth and loved the fact that all the characters were well rounded and living their own lives. The supporting characters have their own problems and are not there just to support Beth and Clayton's relationship, but to enrich the narrative as a whole. The other characters and Beth's own battle made it feel so much more real and hit me incredibly hard.
Summer Harvest is equal parts funny and serious, but most of all, it's real. If you ever get the chance, please read this book (and keep a box of tissues handy for the last 50 pages or so).
April 26, 2020
This was a great "fish out of water" rural romance. Beth, a cancer survivor, is sent from England to the Margaret River district of Western Australia for a holiday. Here she meets Clayton who works on his family vineyard next door to where she's staying.
There were many things I loved about this book - colourful well-written secondary characters, not shying away from difficult topics like cancer and body image, and the many romance sub-plots. I'm a big fan of older characters having their love story too!
Summer Harvest features characters from Penney's first book, Fly In, Fly Out but you don't need to have read that one first. I really hope there's a 3rd book coming!
There were many things I loved about this book - colourful well-written secondary characters, not shying away from difficult topics like cancer and body image, and the many romance sub-plots. I'm a big fan of older characters having their love story too!
Summer Harvest features characters from Penney's first book, Fly In, Fly Out but you don't need to have read that one first. I really hope there's a 3rd book coming!
September 28, 2020
Floundering after getting through a divorce brought on by a serious health scare, Beth Poole, a dog trainer is living with her Grandma and her partner. Grandma Violet decides to send Beth to Australia for a holiday as a birthday present.
Beth thought she was going to the east coast, but discovers she is on her way to the west coast in the Margaret River wine-making region. Next door to where she is staying live the Hardy family who live and work on their vineyard. As they wheedle their way into Beth's life some strong bonds are made, and it's all falling apart near the end of her trip reminding her of her past anguish.
How will things turn out for her?
Beth thought she was going to the east coast, but discovers she is on her way to the west coast in the Margaret River wine-making region. Next door to where she is staying live the Hardy family who live and work on their vineyard. As they wheedle their way into Beth's life some strong bonds are made, and it's all falling apart near the end of her trip reminding her of her past anguish.
How will things turn out for her?
February 8, 2017
Rule number one of writing a book set in rural Australia. Every conversation must start with "G'day mate," inlcude "bonzer", "arvo", "ute" and "fair dinkum", and conclude with "cheers mate."
Someone forgot to tell Georgina Penney.
Because her dialogue sounds like it comes from actual conversations from actual people who have lived in the actual country.
It's so refreshing. And funny. And addictive.
Someone forgot to tell Georgina Penney.
Because her dialogue sounds like it comes from actual conversations from actual people who have lived in the actual country.
It's so refreshing. And funny. And addictive.
October 16, 2018
Beth is given a airline ticket to Australia by her grandmother for her birthday. Beth is reluactant to go to a country were all the creatures seem to be lethal (I find this funny, living in Australia myself- although I do see where she is coming from). Nonetheless, Beth goes for a months holiday in a quaint cottage in George Creek, next door to a vineyard owned by the Hardy family.
This is where Beth meets Clayton Hardy. They enjoy an intimate holiday fling but becomes more complicated when feelings grow deeper and secrets and past hurts get revealed.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved the Australian setting. I have read Georgina’s other books and I was happy to continue with the loosely based series.
I was at the library when I saw this book, so I had to borrow it as I have been meaning to read it for some time. And I am glad I did.
Check out my review on my blog: https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=2671
This is where Beth meets Clayton Hardy. They enjoy an intimate holiday fling but becomes more complicated when feelings grow deeper and secrets and past hurts get revealed.
I really enjoyed this book and I loved the Australian setting. I have read Georgina’s other books and I was happy to continue with the loosely based series.
I was at the library when I saw this book, so I had to borrow it as I have been meaning to read it for some time. And I am glad I did.
Check out my review on my blog: https://www.auniversaltruth.com/?p=2671
July 27, 2017
Took a sickie to finish this one because there was no way I could put in down. Delicious.
June 21, 2022
Great love story of real incidents. Lessons in talking honestly and don’t assume. Triggers for cancer and mastectomy.
March 20, 2017
Heading to this part of Western Australia myself next month so was quite keen to read a novel set around Margaret River. A great read touching on a very real subject that can be found in lots of families, breast cancer. Showing that no matter what decisions women make in this situation, love and happiness can always be found. I really enjoyed this book and will be seeking further books by this author.
November 12, 2022
It's an enjoyable read. The characters are a bit unrealistic but it's forgivable. Good for a lighthearted read.
February 7, 2016
Summer Harvest is a perfect read for…well, summer. It has that filled-with-light, lazy holiday feel to it, yet it covers some darker subject matter with skill and tenderness. A word of warning though, the story will make you crave a getaway to Western Australia’s Margaret River region (home of wine, cheese, chocolate, fudge and surf)! It’s one of those books that show off my home state to the world and make me proud to be a West Aussie.
The story opens in grey, drizzly England where Beth is living a mundane, day to day existence. Since her double mastectomy for breast cancer (which coincided with her husband leaving her – nice guy), she’s been living with her grandparents. Her only spot of joy is her work as a dog trainer. (It was at this point that I wondered how big a role Beth’s job was going to play in the story because I’m not a dog person – but it’s not much). She’s surprised when her gem of a grandmother gives her a ticket to Australia, the home of Violet’s favourite soap. The only thing is that Louis, her grandfather, got the wrong side of the country and Beth is off to Western Australia. (The better side, really). On arrival, Beth takes off for the south west to have a really relaxing break away from cities and people and…everything. She didn’t expect that a chance meeting with a handsome stranger would end up changing the tone of her holiday… Beth quickly falls into a friendship with Laura and Clayton, but Clayton could mean something much more. But Beth feels she’s damaged a Clayton has a demon or two to deal with (not to mention his father and grandmother being at loggerheads). Can they get it together?
I’m sure you know the answer to that last question, but it’s a really fun trip getting there. Beth seemed to me a bit insipid initially, but I think that’s because she’s so shy and damaged from her experiences that she’s reluctant to reveal herself to even the reader. As we got to know her, she came across as much stronger and meeting Clayton helped with that strength coming to the fore. The jokey way Clayton and his friend Jeff competed for Beth’s affections was a great demonstration of Aussie mateship. Clayton was a great hero, he appeared to tick all the boxes initially, but I liked seeing his more vulnerable, softer and questioning side. Laura (Jeff’s sister and the owner of the cottage where Beth stayed) was a character I’d like to know more about – she’s a bit quirky and full of sensible advice. Perhaps she will get her own book in the future? Penney also writes fantastic older characters, from the fiery Angie (Clayton’s grandmother) to the frank Violet, who was born to gossip. There’s also some romance around the more mature folk, which is handled sensitively but with several fireworks.
Summer Harvest also explores life post-cancer, which is a topic that gaining more interest, both in the lay press and oncology circles. Given that survival rates for several cancers are now better than they’ve ever been, people can expect to live for decades after, if not their full life span. For Beth, who had a double mastectomy and lost her sister to the same disease, it’s not an easy process. Her scars and mastectomy bra revolt her to the point where she doesn’t want anyone (even Clayton) to see them. Changes in body image and sexuality are common post breast cancer (feeling of loss as a woman) but aren’t something that’s talked about that often. I’m pleased that Summer Harvest covers this in detail.
But the story is not all doom and gloom. There’s some hot sex scenes and plenty of good wine, balanced with some very funny moments (think a sheep in a tractor for example). I can’t wait to see what Georgina Penney comes up with next.
Thanks to Penguin Australia for the eARC. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
The story opens in grey, drizzly England where Beth is living a mundane, day to day existence. Since her double mastectomy for breast cancer (which coincided with her husband leaving her – nice guy), she’s been living with her grandparents. Her only spot of joy is her work as a dog trainer. (It was at this point that I wondered how big a role Beth’s job was going to play in the story because I’m not a dog person – but it’s not much). She’s surprised when her gem of a grandmother gives her a ticket to Australia, the home of Violet’s favourite soap. The only thing is that Louis, her grandfather, got the wrong side of the country and Beth is off to Western Australia. (The better side, really). On arrival, Beth takes off for the south west to have a really relaxing break away from cities and people and…everything. She didn’t expect that a chance meeting with a handsome stranger would end up changing the tone of her holiday… Beth quickly falls into a friendship with Laura and Clayton, but Clayton could mean something much more. But Beth feels she’s damaged a Clayton has a demon or two to deal with (not to mention his father and grandmother being at loggerheads). Can they get it together?
I’m sure you know the answer to that last question, but it’s a really fun trip getting there. Beth seemed to me a bit insipid initially, but I think that’s because she’s so shy and damaged from her experiences that she’s reluctant to reveal herself to even the reader. As we got to know her, she came across as much stronger and meeting Clayton helped with that strength coming to the fore. The jokey way Clayton and his friend Jeff competed for Beth’s affections was a great demonstration of Aussie mateship. Clayton was a great hero, he appeared to tick all the boxes initially, but I liked seeing his more vulnerable, softer and questioning side. Laura (Jeff’s sister and the owner of the cottage where Beth stayed) was a character I’d like to know more about – she’s a bit quirky and full of sensible advice. Perhaps she will get her own book in the future? Penney also writes fantastic older characters, from the fiery Angie (Clayton’s grandmother) to the frank Violet, who was born to gossip. There’s also some romance around the more mature folk, which is handled sensitively but with several fireworks.
Summer Harvest also explores life post-cancer, which is a topic that gaining more interest, both in the lay press and oncology circles. Given that survival rates for several cancers are now better than they’ve ever been, people can expect to live for decades after, if not their full life span. For Beth, who had a double mastectomy and lost her sister to the same disease, it’s not an easy process. Her scars and mastectomy bra revolt her to the point where she doesn’t want anyone (even Clayton) to see them. Changes in body image and sexuality are common post breast cancer (feeling of loss as a woman) but aren’t something that’s talked about that often. I’m pleased that Summer Harvest covers this in detail.
But the story is not all doom and gloom. There’s some hot sex scenes and plenty of good wine, balanced with some very funny moments (think a sheep in a tractor for example). I can’t wait to see what Georgina Penney comes up with next.
Thanks to Penguin Australia for the eARC. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
May 31, 2016
It Takes a Village to Raise True Love
I suppose it's possible, but I don’t really know of any true-life romances that have blossomed into anything more than that in a two-person bubble. Falling in love seems to involve falling in love with the whole person in their 'family and friends package' - whether you want the packaging or not. In other words, it takes a village to raise true love. That was the theme that resonated with me in Summer Harvest.
Beth Poole has had a bad run. She and her sister Valerie were the recipients of dodgy genes that meant breast cancer for both of them. When the disease struck Beth she had a total mastectomy; her sister wouldn’t survive her own bout of cancer. But the story opens with Beth’s life having moved on since Valerie’s death. With both of her parents gone too she now lives with her gran and her ‘step-grandad’ who stifle her with love and attention. Worried that their grandaughter’s life has stalled since her illness and the breakdown of her marriage, Violet and Louis shout Beth a holiday to Australia. Carrying deep emotional and physical scars from the devastation cancer brought into her life, Beth is soon on her way to the beautiful Margaret River wine region of Western Australia, unaware she’s about to meet a man whose overbearing but well-meaning 'family and friends package' will rival even hers.
Clayton Hardy is your classic ‘eldest-child citizen’. Taking on a powerful sense of responsibility for his family from the age of five when he lost his mother to cancer, he’s managed to grind himself down into a deep rut on the family farm. He’s now reached the point where although he loves his family, he feels trapped and restlessly discontented in his adulthood. Meeting Beth, stranded with a flat tyre on the way to her holiday cabin, the two of them find they’re soon being thrown together within the rough and tumble of his family and the Rousse family next door where Beth’s staying. But amongst the rough and tumble, Clayton and Beth discover a space with each other that is quiet and sensual and healing. Only when the pressure of Beth’s imminent return home starts to build does their unresolved emotional baggage threaten to derail their relationship before it’s barely begun.
Summer Harvest is a gentle love story written with Georgina Penney’s usual hallmarks of humour, sensitivity and flair. Throughout, you get a strong sense of ‘family - can’t live with them, but definitely can’t live without them’ which feels completely true to everyday life. But always central to the family dimension is the private relationship developing between Beth and Clayton that looks like it could be the making of the two of them, and might one day have a soothing and settling effect on the shenanigans of their two families as well.
Summer Harvest is, like Georgina Penney’s earlier books, a highly recommended read. And as always, she doesn’t disappoint with her ‘world’s best’, first impression descriptions of her protagonists, in this case Beth's first impression of Clayton: ‘His face had looked like something someone had carved out of granite with a blunt knife…” - Love it!
I suppose it's possible, but I don’t really know of any true-life romances that have blossomed into anything more than that in a two-person bubble. Falling in love seems to involve falling in love with the whole person in their 'family and friends package' - whether you want the packaging or not. In other words, it takes a village to raise true love. That was the theme that resonated with me in Summer Harvest.
Beth Poole has had a bad run. She and her sister Valerie were the recipients of dodgy genes that meant breast cancer for both of them. When the disease struck Beth she had a total mastectomy; her sister wouldn’t survive her own bout of cancer. But the story opens with Beth’s life having moved on since Valerie’s death. With both of her parents gone too she now lives with her gran and her ‘step-grandad’ who stifle her with love and attention. Worried that their grandaughter’s life has stalled since her illness and the breakdown of her marriage, Violet and Louis shout Beth a holiday to Australia. Carrying deep emotional and physical scars from the devastation cancer brought into her life, Beth is soon on her way to the beautiful Margaret River wine region of Western Australia, unaware she’s about to meet a man whose overbearing but well-meaning 'family and friends package' will rival even hers.
Clayton Hardy is your classic ‘eldest-child citizen’. Taking on a powerful sense of responsibility for his family from the age of five when he lost his mother to cancer, he’s managed to grind himself down into a deep rut on the family farm. He’s now reached the point where although he loves his family, he feels trapped and restlessly discontented in his adulthood. Meeting Beth, stranded with a flat tyre on the way to her holiday cabin, the two of them find they’re soon being thrown together within the rough and tumble of his family and the Rousse family next door where Beth’s staying. But amongst the rough and tumble, Clayton and Beth discover a space with each other that is quiet and sensual and healing. Only when the pressure of Beth’s imminent return home starts to build does their unresolved emotional baggage threaten to derail their relationship before it’s barely begun.
Summer Harvest is a gentle love story written with Georgina Penney’s usual hallmarks of humour, sensitivity and flair. Throughout, you get a strong sense of ‘family - can’t live with them, but definitely can’t live without them’ which feels completely true to everyday life. But always central to the family dimension is the private relationship developing between Beth and Clayton that looks like it could be the making of the two of them, and might one day have a soothing and settling effect on the shenanigans of their two families as well.
Summer Harvest is, like Georgina Penney’s earlier books, a highly recommended read. And as always, she doesn’t disappoint with her ‘world’s best’, first impression descriptions of her protagonists, in this case Beth's first impression of Clayton: ‘His face had looked like something someone had carved out of granite with a blunt knife…” - Love it!
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