That Summer

The Aurora MacIntyre Series #2

by H.M. Shander

Aurora may be named after a fairy tale princess, but she has never believed in happily ever afters—especially since her PTSD won’t let go, and her addiction to prescription pills still taunts her.

Now with only nine weeks to get her shit together and prove herself to Nate, Aurora must find the will to believe in herself so she can stop her true love from making a career ending decision. In order to defeat her darkest fears, she needs help from the only person she trusts with her life—Nate's younger brother, Lucas.

Through therapy and relapses, Aurora and Lucas become best friends. However, deep and dark emotions bubble to the surface threatening both the friendship and everything she’s worked hard to overcome.

When darkness descends, threatening to take you away forever, do you succumb or fight back with all you've got?

That Summer is the expanded portion of Duly Noted readers craved. A story of love and courage. A story of a beautiful friendship between two lost souls. It is a standalone, but having read Duly Noted will give the readers more insight into the characters.

Genres: Young Adult

151 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2017

About the author

H.M. Shander is an award winning and USA TODAY bestselling author who is a hopeless romantic and lover of chocolate, coconut and a damn good cup of coffee.

She's the author of several reader's choice books (Bronze medal for Return to Cheshire Bay and the Gold Medal for Living La Vida Mocha). An upcoming release was also a Kobo Writing Life finalist - so watch for that to release soon.
She writes swoon-worthy, gentle beta heroes, in sweet or steamy storylines that all end with a happily ever after.

When not writing, she is a part-time librarian and Educational Assistant to a group of kindergartens, a devoted mother to her two kids, and believes she's married the sweetest man and the greatest inspiration for her heroes.

Sign up for the newsletters: https://h-m-shander.eo.page/z5tgg

Reviews

[Everything Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowww! Absolutely adored "That Summer". Unfortunately I did not read book one (Duly Noted) as I was unaware this was the second book- when I finished reading I immediately scrambled to the authors good reads to see about the continuation of this one LOL- I devoured this book- I absolutely love love love Lucas- and am team Lucas all the way- This is my first read from this author and it will not be my last- this was an amazing story about strength, friendship and love- Aurora suffers addiction and PTSD and lost the love of her life Nate to it- his brother Lucas secretly tries to help Aurora spending every waking moment with her to through her battles so she can try and win her way back to Nate- I can't help my heartbreak for Lucas as when Nate and Aurora finally get to that place- will it be a forever lasting love? What happens to Lucas and Aurora's friendship? My heart breaks for Lucas as deep down I know he has stronger feelings than friendship for her- That ending tho!!!....LOL left me dying for more! Definite must read! Highly anticipating book 3 to come! (In the meantime I'll go catch up on book 1 ❤️)

[Tricia Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read and reviewed an ARC copy for an honest review on behalf of Everything Marie http://everythingmarie.com/

Wowww! Absolutely adored "That Summer". Unfortunately I did not read book one (Duly Noted) as I was unaware this was the second book- when I finished reading I immediately scrambled to the authors good reads to see about the continuation of this one LOL- I devoured this book- I absolutely love love love Lucas- and am team Lucas all the way- This is my first read from this author and it will not be my last- this was an amazing story about strength, friendship and love- Aurora suffers addiction and PTSD and lost the love of her life Nate to it- his brother Lucas secretly tries to help Aurora spending every waking moment with her to through her battles so she can try and win her way back to Nate- I can't help my heartbreak for Lucas as when Nate and Aurora finally get to that place- will it be a forever lasting love? What happens to Lucas and Aurora's friendship? My heart breaks for Lucas as deep down I know he has stronger feelings than friendship for her- That ending tho!!!....LOL left me dying for more! Definite must read! Highly anticipating book 3 to come! (In the meantime I'll go catch up on book 1 ❤️)

[Paula Genereau · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing. I had a hard time putting it down. Aurora has a pill addiction. She's a lost soul. She has to pull herself together to keep someone close to her from making a bad decision. But she needs help from his brother first to get herself straight. Will it be a bad idea?

[Chrsitina Somerville · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for my honest review.

I liked this book, but also thought that it was just ok.

This book was a good continuation from the first book. I loved the relationship between Aurora and Lucas. They had a really strong connection. You could not help but fall in love with Lucas, he was amazing. He went above and beyond in his relationship with Aurora. He cared so much about her and helping her get past her PTSA and back to his brother. Again for me Aurora was love/hate. There is just something back her that just turns me away.

One thing I would have loved to read in this book was more about Nate. I loved him in the last book. Would have loved to have had a couple chapters in the book from his perspective to see what he was going through during this time.

I was also not a big fan of the ending. It just ended. I wish we would have been able to find out what the sign said. Also an epilog would have been nice.

This series is really strong, dealing with extreme PTSD that have not read before. I would recommend this book and the first one as well. I would read the first one before this one to get the back story on Aurora and Nate.

[Cierra McCauley (Cierra's Corner) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow... my mind is completely Blown! I didn’t not anticipate how much this book was going to make me feel! I should have! Because the first book really hit my emotions but it was nothing compared to how this book left me! This Author just has has a way of making you connect with the characters in such a deep level. Where to even begin.. Aurora has been through so much pain and her PTSD is so Heartbreaking and Terrifying it consumes her everyday life to the extreme and she is so strong, she wants to over come that. For Nate. Nate was my everything in the first book, but in this book he really took the back burner. Yes, there was betrayal on Aurora’s part but I just felt like after everything he gave her in the first book he just gave up way to easily on during this book. He didn’t try to make contact he just gave up. Everything was Aurora wanting him and wanting to overcome her addiction and her Fears for him... now that being said woah! Lucas.. like where the hell he he come from I so didn’t see him coming. He was the sweetest, most caring and just Everything to me in this book. He was there everyday fighting for Aurora with her completely unselfishly for his brother for her happiness. Oh he is definitely my favorite. #TeamLucas. Ending this book I’m left heartbroken for Lucas , want to “gently” shake some sense into Aurora, and just not happy with Nate and his out of sight out of mind, go get another girlfriend ass! Lol be prepared to have your world rocked! This is a great read! It’s so well written, very emotional and pulls on all your heartstrings. Don’t pass this book up! I received an arc from the author in exchange for an honest review.

[a🧚‍♀️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars ⭐️

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bam! Wow!
While I was reading Duly Noted I kind of wondered WTH happened during that summer (haha, love the title btw), and now I know. What a great read, and so much packed into a short novel.

Lucas is totally wicked awesome; the kind of friend to truly pull Aurora out of her self. He is so magnificent that I found my heart breaking a little for him.
I was really hoping there would be more insight into this poster. Will we ever know what's on it? He hinted a bit but not enough. What am I missing here?
The texts were funny between Lucas and Aurora and I found myself LOLing at a few of them. I adored how far she had come in her recoveries and how much of a cheerleader he was for her.

All in all, a remarkable read. Another insight into her mind, and her addictions, and how she battled her fears to get the guy at the end. I loved reading the connection these two share and I hope for many good things for them in the future. Having read the first book, I highly recommend this read. You won't be able to put it down.

Oh and even if you haven't read Duly Noted, (but you really should) you will enjoy this short novel that really is about the friendship between Lucas and Aurora, and how she gets her man. I wonder now who the more perfect for her man is? Hmm...

[Reading with 2 book lovers Sarah P - · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora and Nate are back in this short story, oh how I loved these characters in the first book.
it's great to see how there summer evolves.
I'm hanging for the next book in this series!
I volunteered to read a copy of this book

[Shelly Davis · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this continuation of Duly Noted. It's great to see what Aurora went through and how Lucas helped her achieve her goals.

This is a story of friendship and overcoming overwhelming pain and fear to find something more than could have been dreamed of.

[Emma Tharp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE HM Shander's work! She's an amazing author and I will read every book she writes. #fangirl!

I read the other books in this series and loved this one just as much as the others.

Aurora is flawed with huge challenges to overcome. Lucas, is just the man to help her. He is there to support her and selflessly help her conquer her fears. The crazy part is that Aurora is in love with Lucas's brother, Nate. I won't add spoilers, but let's just say things get complicated.

You need to read this book. You won't be disappointed.

Can't wait to read what comes next.

[Crystal · Rating 5 out of 5]

H.M. Shander, another terrific read ! I don't want to add a spoiler so I'll just say that I'm in love with Lucas ! Although this book is our second " Aurora " read, I think it would stand alone if somehow you missed " Duly Noted " ( you will want to read book one, so you may as well start with it ! LOL ). The everyday struggles that the characters live through are presented in a way to encourage healing and growth. I look forward to the continuing journey as the lives of Aurora, Nate, Lucas, Kaitlyn and all unfold. Thank you for sharing your talent with us !!!

[Jane | Shelf in Bloom♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowww! Absolutely adored "That Summer". Unfortunately I did not read book one (Duly Noted) as I was unaware this was the second book- when I finished reading I immediately scrambled to the authors good reads to see about the continuation of this one LOL- I devoured this book- I absolutely love love love Lucas- and am team Lucas all the way- This is my first read from this author and it will not be my last- this was an amazing story about strength, friendship and love- Aurora suffers addiction and PTSD and lost the love of her life Nate to it- his brother Lucas secretly tries to help Aurora spending every waking moment with her to through her battles so she can try and win her way back to Nate- I can't help my heartbreak for Lucas as when Nate and Aurora finally get to that place- will it be a forever lasting love? What happens to Lucas and Aurora's friendship? My heart breaks for Lucas as deep down I know he has stronger feelings than friendship for her- That ending tho!!!....LOL left me dying for more! Definite must read! Highly anticipating book 3 to come! (In the meantime I'll go catch up on book 1 ❤️)

[Fiona Chislett · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I was totally honest I think that this story should have been included in Duly Noted. But, having said that I enjoyed getting to know Lucas other than he being Nate’s brother. The friendship that developed between him and Aurora is deep and very tender and it was very easy to be caught up in the emotional web that the storyline created. I really liked how the author wasn’t afraid to delve into the murky depths of mental illness portraying it in a way that others may experience the daily struggle.One little passage struck me to the core. I thought it was brilliantly written into the storyline and simply conveyed the message of what it is like for those who reach rock bottom.
“That’s the thing. I didn’t choose life. Death just never came for me.”
Add to all of this the hint of a love triangle and it makes me think that book 3 in this series is going to be a real corker.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

his is the second book in a series and covers approximately the same time frame as the first book, but with a different point of view. We learn how Aurora conquers the symptoms of PTSD that keep her away from Nate, both physically and emotionally. His brother Lucas is her main coach as she gradually learns to face her fears. Nate's sister Chris is also instrumental in helping her find a good therapist and listening when she falls apart. The author continues to depict therapy and recovery realistically. Great characters, touchy conflicts, and a happy outcome for now. But there is still one book to go, so we don't really have our HEA yet!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Andrea Britton · Rating 4 out of 5]

That Summer by H.M. Shander

Aurora has set a goal. One, that she must do to get back the love of her life. The only problem is that she ends up in love with two men not just one.

Her steady help from Lucas helps push her to put away the drugs and get over the fears she has. He's her in constant in life.

Lucas has one of the best hearts out there. Both of these Men have the patience of saints to deal with Aurora but with his help and his friendship she does end up meeting her goal.

I'm excited to see how this trilogy ends. Great story line and the characters are all growing and it's fun to watch.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having read “Duly Noted” , it was amazing to go back and take the journey of Aurora’s fight to conquer her demons of PTSD, and the drug addiction that took her down following the accident. Lucas is Nate’s younger brother who dedicates his entire summer to helping her face this battle, after she had pushed Nate out of her life. It was a heart wrenching struggle that our author did such an incredibly realistic way of portraying. I think it would be imperative to read the first book to get the most out of the second, and now I am most anxious to complete the third and final part of Aurora’s story!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora’s story is so emotional. After the trauma of her car accident, she, understandably, has a lot of fears, not to mention the physical after effects of her injuries. She has a long struggle to overcome her physical issues, emotional issues and fears. Lucas was wonderful - he was thoughtful, supportive and steadfast. Doing all he could to get Aurora and his brother Nate back together. They became close, truly best friends, and she wouldn’t have reached her goal without him. Her story is one of trials and set-backs and some dark emotional places, but also fortitude and perseverance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[TELA666 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this should be combined into Duly Noted as it would fill the time jump where Aurora finally made progress.
It was great to see her make the decision to get clean and start therapy but sad that Lucas was her only real non professional support.
Katerina is quite a useless best friend, especially when she gets jealous of Aurora and Lucas' bond.
I'd like to finish the trilogy and see where the love triangle despite my less than enthusiastic reviews so far.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Nicole Ortiz · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story takes place between Nate and Aurora's breakup and her journey to try to get him back. A great quick read as Aurora tries to battle with her addiction, her pain as she goes through P.T., her therapy and her journey facing her PTSD with the help of Luke (Nate's younger brother), Chris their sister and her friend. This was an interesting story. This is mostly about Aurora but then a glimpse into the friendship between Aurora and Luke and how close they got during this journey.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've read several books written by H.M. Shander; she is becoming one of my favorite authors. I can’t wait to read more of her books.

This is the second book in the Aurora MacIntyre Series; it can be read as a stand-alone book but would be best if read in order.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rhonda Howell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a continuation of Duly Noted. In this story it focuses solely on Aurora and follows her recovery after her accident. The author does a wonderful job of portraying what Aurora went through and how those around her helped.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[casvec · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aurora's story continues. This part of her story gives you more understanding of her struggles after the accident, and those in her life. It will grab at your heart and have your mind spinning.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a continuation of the book, Duly Noted. Well written, it tells more of the story from Aurora’s perspective as well as Lucas’s involvement.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book. Very easy read. My mind :) After reading boom 1 (Duly Noted) I wanted so badly to find out about Aurora’s battle through her her PTSD.