Under a Summer Sky

Follow Your Heart #3

by Melody Carlson

High school art teacher Nicole Anderson is looking forward to a relaxing summer in Savannah, house-sitting and managing an art gallery for a family friend. The house is luxurious in a way that only old money could make it, and the gallery promises interesting days in a gorgeous setting. Yet it isn't long before her ideal summer turns into more than she bargained for: a snooty gallery employee who's determined to force her out, a displaced adolescent roosting in the attic, and two of Nicole's close childhood friends--who also happen to be brothers--vying for her attention.
With a backdrop of a beautiful historical city, incredible architecture, and even an alleged ghost or two, combined with the opportunity for romance . . . anything can happen!
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson invites readers to spend the summer surrounded by beauty and tantalizing possibilities for the future.

Genres: Christian Fiction, Romance, Contemporary, Fiction, Christian Romance, Contemporary Romance, Chick Lit

313 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2017

About the author

Melody Carlson is the award-winning author of over two hundred books, several of them Christmas novellas from Revell, including her much-loved and bestselling book, The Christmas Bus.

She also writes many teen books, including the Diary of a Teenage Girl series, the TrueColors series, and the Carter House Girls series.

Melody was nominated for a Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational market for her books, including the Notes from a Spinning Planet series and Finding Alice, which is in production as a Lifetime Television movie. She and her husband serve on the Young Life adult committee in central Oregon.

Reviews

[Shirley Chapel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky is the third and final book of the Follow Your Heart series by Melody Carlson. The story takes place in Savannah . The main Character is Nicole , a high school art teacher from Seattle. As school gets ready to let out for the Summer, she learns that her mother has volunteered Nicole to work at her friends art gallery in Savannah Georgia for the Summer. Not sure she's qualified to manage an art gallery she tries to get out of it only to learn that her mother's friend has already bought her a first class ticket to fly to Savannah in two days.
Once there she finds herself in a stressful situation with Amyra , an employee who works at the art gallery. Amyra imagines herself to be the manager while her boss is gone on an all summer long cruise. It was left to Nicole to inform her that she wasn't the manager. This doesn't go over well and Nicole fears she will have to fire Amyra because of her bad attitude and lack of respect.
Would Nicole be able to run the art gallery efficiently by herself , without Amyra ? Is it possible that Amyra could have a change of heart and start behaving like a normal employee? There's also the situation with her boss's two sons who seem to be quite taken up with the beautiful Nicole. A bit of sibling rivalry takes place between the two. Which one will win Nicole's affection ?
I enjoyed the story and the southern charm that seemed to ooze from the characters at times. The book covers on all three books of this series are very eye catching. I like that each book could be read as a stand alone . I'm glad that I read all three books. Readers of Christian Contemporary Romance will enjoy this series. If you enjoy Melody Carlson's writing than this series is for you. I highly recommend all three books.

[Melanie Kilsby · Rating 3 out of 5]

Under A Summer Sky was a cute summer read with fireworks and history.

I am really enjoying this new NA series by Melody Carlson and gave this instalment a solid 3 1/2 stars.
The development of of characters was wonderful with notes of architecture, art and history exposing the true colours of each one. Side characters were developed with great arcs too. Though, some I would have wanted to know more about. I loved how Nicole truly cared for people and saw the best in them even if they were horrible and treated her badly.

The story itself did wrap up quickly, leaving me with some questions. And as mentioned before, I would have like to see more of some of the other characters, etc. Ghosts and ghost towns may appeal to some, but not me. However, it made me want to learn more about Savannah. Also, use of strong spirits and alcohol was unfortunate. Though I was thankful when Nicole refused it often! Plus, I was hoping that there would have been more emphasis placed on dating someone that is a Christian vs. a non-believer. Which I think could have been highlighted in this novel wonderfully.

Overall, a great book and one I was happy to read for the summer. Perfect for curling up by the beach or while waiting for the summer fireworks to begin!

[Lindsey (Books for Christian Girls) · Rating 3 out of 5]

About this book:

“High school art teacher Nicole Anderson is looking forward to a relaxing summer in Savannah, house-sitting and managing an art gallery for a family friend. The house is luxurious in a way that only old money could make it, and the gallery promises interesting days in a gorgeous setting. Yet it isn't long before her ideal summer turns into more than she bargained for: a snooty gallery employee who's determined to force her out, a displaced adolescent roosting in the attic, and two of Nicole's close childhood friends--who also happen to be brothers--vying for her attention.
With a backdrop of a beautiful historical city, incredible architecture, and even an alleged ghost or two, combined with the opportunity for romance . . . anything can happen!
Bestselling and award-winning author Melody Carlson invites readers to spend the summer surrounded by beauty and tantalizing possibilities for the future.”


Series: Book #3 in the “Follow Your Heart” series. (Review of Book #1, Here! and #2 Here! But can be read as stand-alones.)


Spiritual Content- A couple Scriptures are mentioned & quoted; A few prayers & thanking God; A few talks about God; Mentions of God; Mentions of prayers, praying, & blessings over food; Mentions of churches, church going, & sermons; Mentions of blessings & being blessed; A few mentions of religious paintings; A mention of a godsend; A mention of a miracle;
*Note: Nicole goes on a ghost tour (up to semi-detailed, but not truly scary); Many mentions of haunted houses and places (but not like at an amusement park), ghosts (some believe there are ghosts, but Nicole doesn’t), & ghost tours; A mention of feeling odd supernatural effects at a place.


Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘idiot’ and six form of ‘stupid’s; Some sarcasm & eye rolling; A party with adults and alcohol, only some young teens get into the vodka & get sick (barely-above-not-detailed); Drinking champagne; Many mentions of divorces, going through one, & parents fighting; Mentions of wars, battles, & deaths; Mentions of slavery & slave labor; Mentions of a house party with alcohol, shots, & a girl who had alcohol poisoning; Mentions of alcohol poisoning & throwing up; Mentions of alcohol (beer, wine, vodka, & champagne), a pub/brewery & drinking; Mentions of a possible break-in, a robbery, & intruder; Mentions of teasing, bullies, mean girls, & hatred; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of a murder & suicide with the son finding his parents’ bodies; A few mentions of a fire & deaths; A few mentions of injuries; A couple mentions of a suspicious murder; A couple mentions of thieves; A couple mentions of pierces & tattoos; A couple mentions of lies & lying; A mention of poison; A mention of horror films;
*Note: Going to & Mentions of Starbucks; Mentions of celebrities (Goldie Hawn, Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway, Adele, & the Kardashians); Mentions of brands (Range Rover, Mercedes, BMW, Hermès, & Ralph Lauren); Mentions of vampires; Mentions of the Munsters; A mention of Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean.


Sexual Content- two barely-above-not-detailed kisses and a semi-detailed kiss; Touches & Embraces (barely-above-not-detailed); Noticing & Smelling; a ‘hot’ and two ‘hussy’s; Many mentions of crushes, dating, dates, boyfriends, girlfriends, breakups, & exes; Mentions of noticing & attention; Mentions of falling [in love with] for someone; Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of a couple who was pregnant when they got married; Attention from two guys; Love, falling in love & a bit of the emotions;
*Note: A few mentions of a skimpy nightgown & a man’s whistling at Nicole; A mention of a young girl wearing a bikini.

-Nicole Anderson, age 29
P.O.V. of Nicole
300 pages

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Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star (and a half)
Early High School Teens- Two Stars (and a half)
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Two Stars (and a half)
The beginning held my interest, but as the book went on I started not enjoying it as much. My main problem was that the romances felt forced. Especially with that ending—it was very rushed and quite honestly just faded out as you read the last bit. No exciting big moment, at least, in my opinion.
I did liked Nicole at first, but during her interactions with the brothers, I was shaking my head at different parts. I don’t feel like she had a connection to either of them, honestly. I enjoyed the art gallery parts and found myself wishing there was more of that.
It was a decently cute read—there were a lot of mentions of ghosts and haunting houses that some might not like however—but I didn’t find it to be the author’s best or anywhere near her best book(s).


Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...


*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Publisher (Revell) for this honest review.

[Paula Phillips · Rating 3 out of 5]

Nicole has been feeling stuck and, in a rut, as she teaches high school art and it seems that the spark is starting to fade as when she was younger, she wanted to be an artist and even spent time in Europe appreciating art in the real world but now it's the same thing over and over again - teaching art in a classroom. When her mum's childhood friend Vivian calls her mother offering Nicole a summer job away in Savannah, Georgia managing her art gallery and house-sitting, this may be the push Nicole needs to get stuck and explore her options and find the reason she loved art in the first place and to get some painting of her own done. Vivian's husband has shouted Vivian a world cruise and so she will be absent all of the summer and now has left Nicole the keys to her gallery and house. While in town though things aren't going to be easy as the other worker at the Art Gallery Amyra acts like she should be the manager and isn't impressed with Nicole being brought in and Nicole will also find herself stuck in a love triangle with Alex and Ryan - Vivian's sons and childhood friends. When they were kids, Nicole had a crush on Alex but now he's a divorced dad with a teen daughter and Ryan was the nerdy one who now has captured Nicole's heart. The thing though is that Ryan has another admirer in Cassidy - his best friend and if Nicole doesn't follow her heart and choose him quickly, she might just have a competition of her hands for Ryan's affections. Is this the summer that Nicole will not only discover a new love but also reignite her passion for the art world? Find out in Book #3 of Melody Carlson's series "Follow Your Heart" which each book can also be read as a standalone.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

After reading the second book in this series earlier this year, I wasn't even sure I wanted to continue reading the series (because I really didn't care for the second book), but I decided to continue and I am glad I did! I really enjoyed Under a Summer Sky.

I liked the characters. I liked how the story featured art and an art gallery. I liked the town and all the "ghosts/haunted houses" history.

All in all, I really liked Under a Summer Sky. If you like contemporary romance, I think you'll enjoy this one.

*I received a complimentary eBook copy via NetGalley for my honest review. As always, all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*

[Callie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read the first book in this series a few years ago, and though the ending was rushed, I really enjoyed it. I decided to pick up this book by the same author for a light, summer read.

Nicole heads to her mother's friend's house to run her gallery for the summer, and get's caught in between two sons who are vying for her attention. She goes through mishaps in running the gallery and in figuring out how her relationship with one of the sons can move forward - because doesn't he have a girlfriend?

First I have to say that I would NOT call this a Christian book. Aside from a couple of the characters shooting up a prayer before meals a couple times, there were no faith references at all. So don't expect much in that department. I would have loved this as a clean, romantic read, but it just irks me when it's presented as a Christian book when it really isn't.

There were many references in this book to the "ghosts" in Savannah, which irked me after a while. One of the characters briefly wonders if her love interest is living with someone - once again, not really representing how important following and obeying Christ should be in the lives of those who I am assuming were supposed to be following Him. But I'm only assuming that because this was presented as a "Christian" book. But it's not.

That said, for what it was, I really did enjoy this book! The story was sweet, the different plot lines were all interesting. I really liked the characters, and how it all played out. The atmosphere of Savannah was described beautifully and made me want to visit. Though the ending came quickly, I didn't feel like it was as abrupt as the previous book I've read by this author. I did feel that a couple of the storylines could have been wrapped up better though, and in that sense it still felt rushed. I always feel like this author's books could use another 50-100 pages.

Still, if you want a quick, light read, this book was fun, and overall I'd recommend it!

Note: I received a copy of this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily Thevenin · Rating 2 out of 5]

It did fit what I was looking for in the sense that it was an easy, light summer read. However it was definitely not Carlson's best. I wish Melody would quit churning out so many books and instead focus on quality over quantity.

This book did not have the gospel message woven into the story like her other books I have read. It would have been nice to have had that, however, I can see Carlson's desire to publish some secular novels with just some hints of Christianity in order to reach a broader audience. It's harder to reach the lost when your book is always labeled as Christian. However I did not like how she, as a Christian, chose to talk so much about haunted houses and such and act like ghost hunting isn't a sin.

The two aspects I enjoyed the most in the story were Nicole's efforts to establish boundaries with her crazy coworker and the wonderful descriptions of the architecture and natural beauty of Savannah. I sure hope and pray one day I can visit that city and see first hand some of the things the author described.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

UNDER A SUMMER SKY is the third book in Ms. Carlson's romance series Follow Your Heart. This one is set in Savannah, Georgia. At first I thought Nicole had no backbone, but as the story unfolded she started to develop one. I really appreciated that. Alex's young daughter, Bernie, made a nice addition to the story, and there is a love - triangle, with both Alex and Ryan vying for her affections! I wanted Nicole to choose the one I was rooting for!

There is some drinking -- beer and wine -- for those who don't approve of it and don't want to read about it, and the faith message is absolutely nonexistent, but otherwise the story is sweet, clean, and nothing objectionable for those who like squeaky clean romances without a spiritual message.

I think this was absolutely my favorite book of the three in the series Once Upon a Summertime, and All Summer Long and now Under a Summer Sky. All three are about girls being sent out of their comfort zones, spreading their wings, and discovering themselves and love in the process. I hope there will be a fourth book in this series.

If you like sweet romances, don't miss UNDER A SUMMER SKY. A can't fail summertime romance set in the deep south. I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Kathleen (Kat) Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Growing up, I had a boy that lived next door to us and our families were the very best of friends. The kind you plan vacations together and then at some point, you see that boy next door as something else besides just your childhood friend. Perhaps a future romance?

In Under A Summer Sky by Melody Carlson, Nicole Anderson is searching for something to inspire a bit of creativity in her lesson plans as a high school art teacher in Seattle. Her mother has the perfect idea and with just a weekend to plan for it, they take an unexpected shopping trip to prepare for her summer job. Vivian Graham is taking a three month world cruise with her husband and has offered a manager position at her art gallery in Savannah, Georgia. She believes that Nicole has just what this shop needs in order to run it, despite the looming presence of Amyra, the employee just about everyone in the Graham family despises. She believes since Vivian will be gone, the job of managing the art galley belongs to her and it's just a matter of time before she sends Nicole packing.

Vivian has offered Nicole the luxury of staying in their palatial Southern home in her absence along with the keys to her SUV to lend her the opportunity to transport any art pieces as needed. She has also placed an order for business cards for Nicole as manager, but she fails to let Amyra in on that little detail. Not to mention that the Grahams are long time friends of the Anderson's, she now learns that Alex, the most handsome of the brothers, whom she had a crush on, is now newly divorced with a teenage daughter as well as Ryan, the youngest brother who has just ended a relationship with Amyra and seems to be in a potential engagement to the town's sweetheart Cassidy. One thing is certain, this summer won't be boring in the least!

I received Under A Summer Sky by Melody Carlson compliments of Baker Publishing Group and Net Galley. This is such a sweet summer romance, coupled with two very different eligible men who fancy Nicole's attention along with the rocky relationship she has with Amyra who has her target set on Nicole for the job at the Graham Gallery. With moss lined trees and ghost tours, the Savannah southern charm is bound to get readers in the mood for some southern romance. I give this novel a 5 out of 5 stars because it is one I could relate to from my early childhood and this one keeps you longing for those southern summer nights complete with fireworks aplenty. This is the third novel in the Follow Your Heart series with Once Upon A Summertime and All Summer Long preceding this one. Available in paperback and eBook formats.

[Jane Lively · Rating 2 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for a review, as part of the book tour for this novel. My corresponding blog post will be published 13 June, 2017 @ https://janepedia.com/carlsonm-uass/.

I originally rated this 3/5 stars, but I feel that's being too generous. There are so many issues with this book I don't understand why it was published before these were addressed—but then, don't I? Award-winning and/or best-selling authors carry with them a particular privilege which allows them to publish any book, figuratively speaking, for the sole purpose of publishing a book (for the author) and bringing in sales (for the publisher).

I'm not new to Christian fiction—there are many well-written novels our their featuring characters with agency. This book is not one of those; it's more the nth draft everyone up and decided they were tired of reading and send to the publishers.

I have more things to say, but for now, this is the gist:

1. The diction does not vary. You can find better diction and varying sentence structure on Facebook, reading your uber religious elder relatives' statuses. This book resembles mom blogs more—except I can't even say this in good faith, because it feels like an insult to all mommy bloggers everywhere.

2. Nicole has no agency. I'd be lying if I said she was role-model material and insulting all role models everywhere—and I'm not even behind the idea of putting people up on pedestals and looking up to them for #inspo or to be influenced. The plot drives her, and all conflict is external. Feelings come out of nowhere, and anytime either brother is in site for the first half of the book, she only thinks with her vagina. It's 2017. Where are the women who aren't boy-crazy middle-schoolers, growing all jealous within two seconds of meeting a guy?! Geez, girl—no wonder your ex-boyfriend was more into his music.

A part of me was to blame this on the Bible Belt Christian lifestyle, but Nicole is from Seattle—she's not from the Bible Belt, yet she's acting exactly like a Bible Belt-raised thoroughbred Christian woman: only thinking about breeding.

It made me—and continues to make me—want to bang my head against the wall because of the ridiculousness that is the entirety of Nicole: we get it, okay? You want a man, because you've been single for almost six months, and it's driving you cray-cray. But that doesn't mean you need to wait on men hand-and-foot, be there at every man's beck-and-call, and/or be afraid to stand up for yourself!

Fiction like this is a major issue because:

3. Christian women are not weak. We don't need society to see us this way, especially not when they already view women as a whole as "weak". We aren't dependent on men; we can take care of ourselves, thank you very much. We don't need to continue to write stereotypes to win over a crowd who seemingly likes this, because it does more harm than good. If we want change, we need to write the change. Disney fairy tales are not real life, and we need to stop treating them like such. I get this is for adults, but oh, my gosh, a kindergarten student could read this and write a much better story.

Because she lacks agency—and any personality other than judging everyone and everything (despite Carlson writing how Nicole is rarely judgmental), and thinking with her ovaries—Nicole is everything but relateable.

My corresponding blog post will be published 13 June, 2017 @ https://janepedia.com/carlsonm-uass/

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky was a breezy little romance that takes Nicole Anderson from the comforts of her Seattle life to Savannah, Georgia for a memorable summer that will change her life. Nicole feels a bit stuck in her life; she is a teacher who has lost her touch, she is a woman closing in on 30 nursing a broken heart and dreams as well. Then an opportunity opens up for her to manage an art gallery for her mother’s longtime friend in Georgia. Not only will she get to manage the art gallery, but she will also have time to pick up her painting, and to top it all off, she gets to house-sit in a beautiful renovated mansion.

I knew I was going to enjoy this novel as it has a little bit of a love triangle. She gets to meet up with her once upon a time childhood crush Alex (who unfortunately is in the middle of a divorce), and his brother, Ryan (who was a bit nerdy and had a crush on her). I knew things were going to get interesting. Throw in an assistant with the nickname Vampira, a house that goes bump in the night, or maybe its ghosts, and the deep, rich atmosphere of Savannah, Georgia itself and you have the makings of fun read.

This is a third in the series called Follow Your Heart and it is my favorite one. The stories are not linked to each other, just all about young women stepping out of their comfort zones to find and pursue new dreams and the romance that just seems to follow.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell Publishing. I was not required to post a positive review and all the views and opinions expressed are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

"It's a great opportunity, but - " . . . . .

High school art teacher Nicole Anderson finds herself being persuaded to fly cross country from Seattle, Washington to Savannah, Georgia in order to house sit and manage an old family friend's art gallery for the summer? Not the quiet summer she had anticipated, but interesting nonetheless.

Settling in to the Graham's lovely home, Nicole finds that some things never change; for instance, the sibling discord between the Graham's two sons, Alex and Ryan, who were Nicole's seasonal childhood friends. Alex is obviously interested in his parent's lovely house sitter, although currently wading through his own divorce proceedings, and while Ryan seems to pick up their friendship quite easily, word has it that he is practically engaged to a beautiful young doctor in town.

Somewhere between juggling a surly co-worker, befriending Alex's teen daughter, and selling quite a few valuable paintings, Nicole is finding herself quite at home in Georgia's infamous "ghost town". Will her stay in the south be permanent or was this just a pleasant summer in Savannah? Enjoy this light, banter-filled romance, with intriguing glimpses of a lovely city that should be everyone's vacation destination.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The opinions stated are entirely my own.

[Trish · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicole Anderson is teaching art in Seattle when she gets an opportunity to spend a summer in Savannah. A family friend offers her the chance to housesit for the summer and mind her art gallery while she is on vacation. Nicole's summer turns out to be very exciting - with interesting work in a beautiful, historic city and with romantic possibilities involving two old friends, who happen to be brothers.

I grew up in a family that was originally from Savannah, and I lived there as a little girl. I always say that part of my heart will always be in Savannah, and this book made me long to spend time there! Melody Carlson did a wonderful job capturing the unique charm of this city, with old stories (including a couple of ghost tours), historic houses and architecture, and some of my favorite places like Forsyth Park and The Pirates House restaurant.

Nicole is a very likeable character. She is a kind person who wants to help others, including a struggling teenage girl who is part of the family she is housesitting for, and a decidedly difficult gallery coworker. I really liked her relationship with Ryan, which started as an old friendship.

Under a Summer Sky is a sweet, heartwarming novel, and it makes a wonderful summer read. I recommend it for fans of women's fiction and contemporary romance ... especially in a unique, picturesque setting. I have not read the previous books in this series, but Under a Summer Sky worked well as a standalone novel.

[Kav · Rating 4 out of 5]

A breezy beach read that will put a smile on your face and a flutter in your heart. Carlson brings the ambiance of Savannah to life in this captivating summer romance. Decadent descriptions and intriguing facts made me feel like I'd actually traveled south and was experiencing this historical city first hand. I do so love a good armchair travel story!

Love the artistic backdrop too -- from the gallery to the architecture to the artist/art teacher heroine. I don't think there's enough of the Arts featured in Christian Fiction so this one fed my creative loving soul.

And while this might look like one of those dreaded love triangle stories -- it isn't really. Well, there are two guys but it was pretty clear to me from the start who was going to come out the winner. So this wasn't an angst-riddled read -- at least not on that front. Loved the sibling dynamics and the friction that brought to the story but Nicole handled it with class.

A heartwarming inspirational love story that's perfect for your next summer escape read.

Book provided courtesy of Baker Publishing and Graf-Martin Communications.

[Carol · Rating 2 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky was well written and interesting There are just a few notes to the Christians out there. Since it is rated as Christian there is references to two couples being pregnant out of wedlock, talk of suicide, talk of mean girls and hate, alcohol, pubs/breweries and drinking, a girl with alcohol poisoning - house party, a major thing for Ghosts and Haunted Houses, the Supernatural - not Angel and Demons were brought out - that I don't mind they are real - like I said the story is well written if you are into that sort of stuff but I am not. I received a complimentary copy of this book; all the opinions in this review are all my own.
if you would like to read more of my Christian book reviews go to christianlybookreviewers.blogspot.com

[Leah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I didn't like this story. It wasn't bad, but I didn't like a lot of things that were mentioned/happened. Also, the ending was the opposite of what I wanted to have happen. I thought she should have picked the his brother. I did like that the story took place in Savannah. I think that is a beautiful setting. Also, I liked the cover, very pretty.

[Lisa M. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was better than the previous book in the series and was interesting. I have wandered through small art galleries before so I liked seeing what happens "behind the scenes". And of course--Savannah! Mmmm.

[Margarita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Filled with art, heart, and romance, Under the Summer Sky is your answer to a light, sweet, summer beach read.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting, mostly sweet romance.

[Jenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a good book! I truly love reading all books by Melody Carlson. They do not disappoint. It was a fantastic read with interesting characters who you root for in the end.

[Jerrye Tellmeagreatstorylove · Rating 4 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky by Melody Carlson

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

___________________________________________________________

Story Notes

Melody Carlson brings to her readers a fun and sweet romance that is as lovely as a summer sky in Savannah.

An on-going fan of Ms. Carlson’s I was most happy to see this story come across my reading dashboard. Her wit and sweetness are always wonderful to read and it comes through very well in her books. As it would happen, I was sent this book the day before my family left for a beach vacation and as this is a summertime book I was glad it would be my companion on that trip. Ms. Carlson did not disappoint – this story was really great and I enjoyed getting to know her characters. She begins her tale with a high school Art teacher named Nicole who loves her subject but not teaching it to high-schoolers who are not interested in Art History. Enter her mother, Caroline who has arranged an adventure for her – managing Caroline’s friend Vivian’s art gallery for the summer! Feeling a bit railroaded, Nicole reluctantly agrees (after speaking with Vivian) and makes plans to head to Savannah. Little does she know that this summer will be just the shake up she needs to build her confidence in herself and give her a chance at lasting love. I am always on the hunt for authors that present well developed characters and further, well developed stories. Ms. Carlson is one such author who seeks to totally immerse her readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of the setting so they actually feel they have been to the location of the story. I have put Savannah on my list of places to visit after reading this book and can’t wait to try out the culture and food of that quiet Southern town. How fun it was to walk alongside Nicole as she revisited her childhood vacation town and saw the wonderful changes that were happening. And to find herself the target of not one possible suitor but two! Add to this the “privilege” of helping a hurting teenager find her way through some tough times, the hard work of dealing with an insolent co-worker, the joy of getting to help design the layout of a lavish home and joining in on several ghost tours in Old Town Savannah and Nicole is bound for a life changing summer. Ms. Carlson also includes spiritual growth for her characters – helping Nicole become confident in the gifts God has given her while still remaining kind to those who are hurtful; helping Ryan to become the contractor he’s sought to be for several years while dealing with his older brother who looks down on him; and helping Bernie (Ryan’s niece) feel loved and stop her parents fighting over with whom and where she belongs. And Ms. Carlson included one of my favorite romance plots – a childhood crush by one character that was annoying to the other character, that finds the good footing of a real love relationship. I love to see this plot played out – it makes for such fun and sarcastic comments that just make the story that much better. I am loathe to include more description of the content as I don’t want to spoil the story for others, but I will certainly be recommending this story to others so they can enjoy it too. I am looking forward to Ms. Carlson’s next book, hoping it will be just as wonderful to read.

I received this E-book free of charge from Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. I will receive not fiscal compensation from either company for this review.

[Kelly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky: A Savannah Romance" is the third book in the "Follow Your Heart" series by Melody Carlson, author of over two hundred books, including novellas, young adult titles, and contemporary romance novels. This book is a quick, easy read about an almost-thirty, disenchanted high school art teacher, Nicole Anderson, who spontaneously leaves her hometown of Seattle the day after school gets out to fly to Savannah and spend the summer house-sitting and working in an art gallery of an old family friend. The town is picturesque and rich with history, but more than its mansion-studded streets, Nicole must navigate the many dynamics of the people she lives and works with, including the two brothers she hasn't seen since childhood, Alex and Ryan, and the rude gallery employee, Amyra.

For whatever reason, when I picked up "Under a Summer Sky", I decided to read it with the same expectation as I used to watch chick flicks, as a predictable "feel good" story without much real conflict or notable characters, and truthfully I was better able to simply enjoy reading this book even if it was average in my opinion. I did find the plot very predictable, and there were some situations that seemed somewhat contrived and others where I felt individuals were out of character. But the handful of main characters added some interest and were fairly well developed through their conversations and interactions with each other; Nicole befriends Alex's daughter, Bernie, who is struggling with her parents' divorce, and the adult/preteen relationship is portrayed thoughtfully, while the tension between Nicole and Amyra adds some conflict and likewise Nicole's attitude when dealing with the difficult employee is commendable, if perhaps a bit unrealistically self-controlled). More generally, the descriptions of the city, landscape, architecture, and art create an idyllic backdrop to the story, and the thread of ghosts and haunted houses woven throughout adds a fun and at times comical touch. (On a final note, as a disclaimer only, this book is not "Christian" fiction; there are a few references to providence and prayer, but otherwise it reads as a secular novel, and also contains what I would consider mature themes, such as alcohol/underage drinking.)

Overall, "Under a Summer Sky" is a cute story, perfect for a lazy summer Saturday afternoon—or a winter vacation to the South! :)

Disclaimer: This book was received for free from Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, in exchange for my review.

[Mardell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melody Carlson is a writer for all seasons. Under A Summer Sky is a wonderful addition for summer reading. Travel first class to Savanna this Summer! Vicariously, of course with Nicole Anderson, who leaves her Seattle home to manage an art gallery for an old family friend. The gallery is owned by Vivian Graham, her mother's best friend through school. While growing up, summer vacations were often spent with the Graham family. Nicole and her sister Kate spent a lot of time with the sons Alex and Ryan.

Arriving in Savanna, Nicole finds she is one step ahead of her old life as a high school art teacher. Staying in the Graham home for the summer home is a dream and when she steps into the gallery she feels like she has stepped into her true calling. Except, of course, for her snarky coworker, Amyra, an unhappy woman who seems willing to go the extra mile to make things unpleasant. Determined to make things work, Nicole maintains a positive attitude under pressure and begins to find her niche in the gallery business. It doesn't take long for her to put her own successful stamp on the business.

Nicole presents a positive impact on a situation that could be tough. I found her character admirable. About the second night of her stay she heard unmistakable noises from the attic. She called on Ryan to help her investigate only to find Alex's daughter Bernie camping out in protest to her parents pending divorce. With great aplomb, our heroine embraces the girl in a positive way by allowing her to stay in the home and mentoring her at the gallery. The way the author characterized Nicole makes her such a good role model for the other young women in the story.

As a single woman, of course there is romance for Nicole and I went back and forth on who I wanted her to choose in the end. The handsome Alex, who she secretly had a crush on as a teen or younger brother Ryan, the former nerd, who may be more than meets the eye. Melody Carlson once again played this well and I liked the ending very much.

Savanna in the summer, romance, patience and finding your true calling are woven together in this wonderful summer novel. I recommend it as an addition to any beach bag or perhaps in that carry on bag you'll stow under your seat as you fly away for your summer vacation!

[Katrina Epperson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story!!
Melody Carlson has released the 3 installment, Under a Summer Sky, in the Follow Your Heart series. This story sweeps the reader from Washington state to Savannah, Georgia. We are introduced to the enchanting Nicole Anderson who is a high school art teacher preparing for summer break when an opportunity to spend the summer in the historical town of Savannah. As a child growing up Nicole spent summer vacations with her mother's childhood friend, Vivian Graham, and her family. Parts of it she remember fondly, but other parts were almost unbearable. This opportunity involves house sitting for Vivian and helping out at her art gallery while she is on a world cruise.
Her arrival is met with the first surprise, Vivian's oldest son was in the middle of a divorce and now lived on the estate. What she remembers of Alex is not really pleasant. He was a good looking boy, but his personality showed him to be a bully and guess what? He hasn't changed much. One big difference is that he is now the father of a teen aged daughter. Surprise number two is that Vivian doesn't just want her to help out in the gallery, but to actually manage it with the help of her assistant, Amyra. Of course no one told Amyra of the Nicole's arrival or what her role at the gallery would be. Another surprise would be Vivian's son Ryan that she remembered had a crush on her when they were younger. All Nicole can think is what a summer this has turned out to be, nothing as she had anticipated.
The is a sweet story. I found the characters captivating. Nicole was so sweet and tried to do what was expected of her as a friend and employee. With each challenge thrown her way she shows her strength of character. She is intrigued with the history and architecture of the city. She tries to acclimate to southern living. I just loved her. Alex was appealing until his true character became obvious with how he dealt with Ryan and his daughter.
I would recommend anyone who loves a good, clean romance with a few twists.
**I received this book from the publisher as part of their book bloggers program. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky, written by Melody Carlson, is book 3 in the Follow Your Heart series. Nicole Anderson is a high school art teacher who has recently broken up with her boyfriend and is feeling stuck in her job. Just before the end of the school year, her mother makes a visit to her classroom. Her mother has made arrangements for Nicole to go to Georgia and watch her friend Vivian's home and co-manage her art gallery while Nicole and her husband go on a long cruise. Nicole has just days to get everything ready.
Nicole and her family are friends with Vivian's family. They use to go on vacations together, so Nicole knows Vivian's boys. But they are all grown adults now and have not seen each other for years. Vivian's husband comes from old money and their home is beautiful and Nicole is looking forward to spending the summer there. What she does not expect is to find herself caring for Vivian's granddaughter as well.
Nicole has never worked in an art gallery before and finds herself struggling to work with Vivian's employee, Amyra. Amyra is an ex-girlfriend of one of Vivian's sons. Vivian's son's encourage Nicole to fire Amyra.
This is a great contemporary romance story. Set in the south, the story gives some background to the area as well as southern traditions. This is a fun book to read for enjoyment. This story can easily be read on a lazy weekend. Even though it is part of a series, it is a stand alone novel. The story line and characters are well developed. The story of a summer romance as an adult seems different to me. As well as having a parent make your summer plans to start immediately after school is over, for the majority of the summer. This is not realistic to me. But overlooking that, it was a fun read. This is also considered a Christian fiction story. The Christian aspect of the story is very light. This is more a good clean romance story.
I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishing. I have chosen to write an honest review.

[Jenn Belden · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a southern girl at heart, so I confess that I am drawn to stories set in the South - particularly Savannah and other coastal Carolina settings - so that was what initially piqued my interest in Under a Summer Sky by Melody Carlson. The story, however, is what drew me in - this is a light-hearted, easy read, picturesque in its descriptions, and the characters are well drawn. I particularly enjoyed the spunky Bernie, Vivian Graham's granddaughter who shows up in a most unexpected way.
 
I think Nicole's story would resonate with many - feeling stuck in a rut, and wanting a change. Having a new opportunity drop in your lap is a life saver, and for her, a life changer.  As a high school teacher, you know she's no pushover, but she finds more resolve in dealing with the delightfully nasty Amyra and in connecting with and caring for the semi-abandoned young Bernie.
 
In the praise shown above, Publishers Weekly describes it as "winsome" and I think that is the perfect adjective for the book: sweetly or innocently charming and engaging. This is a sweet romance story.While the book is categorized as Christian, I didn't find it heavily interwoven with faith or scripture or preaching of any sort. Prayers are said before meals, and there is just a general goodness - nothing racy so that you couldn't pass on to Grandma to read. (Assuming yours isn't like my Grams, who loved her Harlequin romances, but that's another story.)
 
I admit, the trust that Vivian, the gallery owner, put in Nicole - despite that she was an old friend of Nicole's mother - was pretty strong for someone she hadn't seen in years, and the ending left me with a few questions unanswered, but it didn't affect how I enjoyed the story. This was a fun novel, perfect for a summer read. Under a Summer Sky is the third book in the Follow Your Heart series but works well as a standalone book - and I'm looking forward to going back to read the first two in the series because this one was so charming.

I was provided a copy of the book for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jaquelyn Scroggie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Under a Summer Sky is the third book in the Follow Your Heart series. I have read the second book in this series and do not feel it is necessary to read the previous books to enjoy his one. Melody Carlson took me on a fun adventure to the south to visit Savanna, Georgia. It was interesting learning about a part of the country I have never visited, but now would love to. The thought of Southern boy charm doesn't hurt either. I had fun imagining what it would be like to get swept away into a summer of luxury with some good looking old friends vying for my attention. This story follows Nicole as she leaves home during the summer to manage a family friends art gallery.

Nicole is in a rut. Being a art teacher used to be so much fun, but lately it seems like she is stuck. When an opportunity arises for her to take off for the summer, she is weary. The more she thinks about getting away, the better it sounds. After arriving she worries she is in over her head. Being an artist doesn't mean you can run an art gallery, but she is going to give it her best shot. The Graham brothers she knew when she was younger are all grown up now. Living in their parents house, she runs into both of them often. Between running the art gallery and its feisty employee, Nicole has her hands full. Is she meant to be with one of these men, or does she belong back home in Seattle?

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a quick summer read. It's the perfect book for vacations where you can pick it up right where you left off without having to back track. I enjoyed getting to know the characters. This book isn't packed with scriptures or situations where faith is leaned on, but I still enjoyed it. I received a copy of this book from Revell Publishers in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Raechel Lenore · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5

There was some aspects of this book that I enjoyed, and some that I did not. I also didn’t know this was the third in a series (the review program didn’t say I don’t believe), but it seemed to stand on its own just fine.
High school art teacher, Nicole, is from Seatle but accepts a summer job managing a gallery for a family friend down in Savanna. She is charmed by the southern town, and enjoys the scenery but her summer isn’t without difficulties as she deals with a co-worker and possibly un-wanted attention from a once-upon-a-time crush.
What I liked: The gallery. This actually surprised me, because art isn’t really my thing, but I found the scenes where she was working very interesting. I liked Ryan right away, and Bernie was a good character too. Possible SPOILER—- I liked Nicole’s relationship with Ryan the best – that and the gallery is what mainly kept me reading; to find how where that led. END of SPOILER.
What I didn’t like: I wouldn’t catagorize this as a Christian book – pretty clean yes, but not necessarily Christian – it’s one of those books that the author is Christian, so a character may “say a prayer” real quick, but it is devoid of any true faith, which I find disheartening.
I didn’t care for Alex, but that is a personal preference I suppose. However, the love-triangle thing was a bit annoying – not as bad as I first expected though, so at least there was that. And what bothered me the most besides the missing faith (which is the most important element of a book in my opinion) was the almost obsessed fascination and acceptance of ‘ghosts’. Those are not something to play around with, because even what they described as ghost occurances are often demonic. They made light of the whole ghost thing, making it a ‘cutesy’ part of the story, but I just don’t agree with that. While I do not believe in the “ooooh ghosts!”, I do believe the reality of demons.
In conclusion:
This book was an easy read – I was able to read it in just a couple sittings. And it does hold your attention pretty well, but for me it was more of a ‘fluffy’ book than anything.
(Also bummed they didn’t include Vivian’s return in the story – I would’ve liked to read how that went!).

[Deb Haggerty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deb’s Dozen: A Summer Romance, Luxurious Estate, Beautiful Art—Brothers Vying for Her Attention

A summer romance becomes the best beach read. Melody Carlson’s Under a Summer Sky meets all the criteria of the romance genre. Girl crushes on boy, boy ignores, but his brother her best pal. They grow up. Now boy interested in girl, she ignores him, brother still looking out for her. Throw in a summer job in an art gallery, a Vampira-like assistant, a neglected teen, a Southern city, and you have the perfect formula.

The great thing about romances is the more they are alike, the more they are different—a dichotomy that seems unrealistic but plays true here. Nicole Anderson, an art teacher, looks forward to summer. However, her mother volunteered her to help a friend manage her art gallery while the friend takes a cruise with her husband. Included in the job—living in their estate where the bathroom outsizes Nicole’s apartment at home. The two brothers she palled around with as a teen just happen to be the sons of her mom’s friend. The gallery assistant with whom Nicole will be working resembles Vampira, with a personality to match.

Nevertheless, the summer, fraught with possibilities and with pitfalls, portends to be interesting at the least. The conflict with the assistant, the attention of the two men exasperates Nicole. However, you’ll enjoy Under a Summer Sky, exploring the city of Savannah, and cheering for Nicole all along the way. Worth the read. Four stars.

Melody Carlson has written more than two hundred! books with sales over 6.5 million! She’s received the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award in the inspirational category for her many books. She and her husband live in Oregon.

Revell Books, a division of Baker Publishing, gave me a copy of Under a Summer Sky, but I was in no way obligated to write a review.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Under a Summer Sky” is one of those books that one should pick up when in need of a relaxing read. It would be perfect for summer vacation whether at the beach, in the mountains, or in your own backyard. I would probably classify it as a “feel good romance”.

Many of us have been there – stuck in a rut with our lives – maybe because we’ve been hurt, or maybe afraid, or possibly even apathetic or depressed. Whatever the reason, Nicole Anderson found herself is a similar place when her mother arbitrarily arranges for her to spend the summer helping out an old friend in her art gallery in Savannah. It also happens that the trip across the country puts her in contact again with the friend’s two sons who Nicole remembers from vacations the families spent together during her childhood.

With its memorable characters and engaging plot, “Under a Summer Sky” was just what I needed as a break from historical romance and intense suspense novels. It was fun seeing Savannah through Nicole’s eyes and the interaction between Nicole and the other characters was entertaining. It didn’t take me very long to decide which brother Nicole should choose and it became more evident at the story progressed.

Not an overtly Christian novel, “Under a Summer Sky” is squeaky clean and would be appropriate for teens. There are several examples of how to treat others and doing the right thing. I can always count on Melody Carlson for an entertaining read with a few life lessons subtly inserted into the plot.

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.