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The Darkest Summer
Lady Cora Winfield's life has always gone according to plan--her mother's plan. That's why Cora is so fascinated when she meets the dark Duke of Blackdell. Knowing his dangerous reputation, Cora's mother flatly forbids the match, and the duke decides to take matters into his own hands. Kidnapped and facing a scandal, Lady Cora must now decide whether love will be her downfall or the beginning of a new plan, one she never dreamed possible.
Set in the stormy summer of 1816, this Regency romance is a retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone.
Set in the stormy summer of 1816, this Regency romance is a retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone.
294 pages, Paperback
First published November 14, 2017
41 people are currently reading
689 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca J. Greenwood
7 books69 followersRebecca J. Greenwood is an author, artist, and designer with a love of stories, especially Regency romances. She grew up in Texas as the oldest of six, and studied visual art with a music minor at Brigham Young University. Rebecca lives in Utah with her husband, where she listens to audiobooks, cooks experimentally, has an interest in alternative health, and constantly has a new project in mind. Visit rebeccajgreenwood.com to experience more of her art, writing, and upcoming projects.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
May 25, 2020
FREE e-book https://amzn.to/3egsq3j
(5/24/20)
Loved it! The details of Cora and Adam, the duke, really made the story for me, as well as their mutual yearning for unconditional and affectionate love. Cora is passionate about horticulture and loves plants and flowers, even trying to rescue the plants that are getting waterlogged in Hyde Park and worrying over the wheat crop of England. Adam is struggling with a lingering injury from Waterloo and the sorrow and grief he has over losing his entire company of soldiers to the violence there. The initial attraction they feel for each other is unexpected and Adam's infatuation with Cora leads him to seek her out and discover her true characteristics beyond the ballroom niceties.
Cora's controlling mother is a complex character- at times seeming the villain in her treatment of her daughter, but also had me curious if her motivation was merely selfish or if she truly had deeper concern for her daughter's future well-being. While the pace at the beginning of the book is a bit slow, once Adam and Cora are off on their adventure the plot really spices up and emotions are brought to the surface and forced to be dealt with. Adam's closest servants that accompany them provide humor and more depth as their loyalty and regard for him reveals his true nature. A wonderful Regency novel with sweet romance and excitement!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
(5/24/20)
Loved it! The details of Cora and Adam, the duke, really made the story for me, as well as their mutual yearning for unconditional and affectionate love. Cora is passionate about horticulture and loves plants and flowers, even trying to rescue the plants that are getting waterlogged in Hyde Park and worrying over the wheat crop of England. Adam is struggling with a lingering injury from Waterloo and the sorrow and grief he has over losing his entire company of soldiers to the violence there. The initial attraction they feel for each other is unexpected and Adam's infatuation with Cora leads him to seek her out and discover her true characteristics beyond the ballroom niceties.
Cora's controlling mother is a complex character- at times seeming the villain in her treatment of her daughter, but also had me curious if her motivation was merely selfish or if she truly had deeper concern for her daughter's future well-being. While the pace at the beginning of the book is a bit slow, once Adam and Cora are off on their adventure the plot really spices up and emotions are brought to the surface and forced to be dealt with. Adam's closest servants that accompany them provide humor and more depth as their loyalty and regard for him reveals his true nature. A wonderful Regency novel with sweet romance and excitement!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)
November 15, 2017
(4.5 Stars) This is one story that almost took me by more of a surprise than it did the characters. After a semi-slow start, this book whirled me away into a captivating story of the unexpected and charmed the socks off of me.
I often wonder if the world was made up of book characters, how many inhabitants would be perfectly perfect and gorgeous individuals. I loved that Cora and Adam weren't the most handsome of characters, but they each had intriguing qualities that really made them seem like your normal, average human being. Of course, their unique personalities really complemented one another and make them absolutely more attractive, especially because of their interactions with servants and each other.
It seems that many Regencies have young ladies who are under their parents' thumbs and Cora isn't an exception. You would think her mother would be happy with any match, especially to a titled man, but that's not the case. She has foolish reasons for turning Adam away and really comes across as the "bad guy" in this book.
I found Cora's fascination with horticulture endearing and Adam's dark, lurking ways appealing, especially when he makes up his mind about what he wants and the lengths he goes to in order to get it. The secondary characters really add to the plot and although it's slightly darker in nature, it's still very compelling and a book worth reading, as it's not your typical Regency romance.
Content: very mild violence; mild romance
*I received a copy to review, which didn't affect my opinion or thoughts in any way.*
I often wonder if the world was made up of book characters, how many inhabitants would be perfectly perfect and gorgeous individuals. I loved that Cora and Adam weren't the most handsome of characters, but they each had intriguing qualities that really made them seem like your normal, average human being. Of course, their unique personalities really complemented one another and make them absolutely more attractive, especially because of their interactions with servants and each other.
It seems that many Regencies have young ladies who are under their parents' thumbs and Cora isn't an exception. You would think her mother would be happy with any match, especially to a titled man, but that's not the case. She has foolish reasons for turning Adam away and really comes across as the "bad guy" in this book.
I found Cora's fascination with horticulture endearing and Adam's dark, lurking ways appealing, especially when he makes up his mind about what he wants and the lengths he goes to in order to get it. The secondary characters really add to the plot and although it's slightly darker in nature, it's still very compelling and a book worth reading, as it's not your typical Regency romance.
Content: very mild violence; mild romance
*I received a copy to review, which didn't affect my opinion or thoughts in any way.*
December 11, 2017
I loved this Regency era romance retelling of the Greek myth of the kidnapping of Persephone by Hades. I was caught on the edge of my seat in suspense with the constant action filled events that kept happening one by one non-stop once we got past that calm beginning. It is only after I finished and could stop gasping in surprise at all the thrilling antagonistic forces that kept trying to physically smack down the characters, that I then could be able to reflect on the similarities between both this storyline and its characters in the aforementioned myth. It was so seamless and subtle sometimes that I had to facepalm myself in disbelief afterwards that I didn't see it as I was reading it. I love the mind of this author!
There were some other things I really loved. There were no 21rst century American colloquialisms in a British Regency time period novel. I loved the spotlight on the sociological ills of that time period including the treatment of wives and children as property which also included the still contemporary social problem of domestic violence and child abuse. I was also impressed there was a prominent though not main character of another race included in the story and the discussion of the racial social issues of that time period in an accurate believable way. I also was impressed to find this originated as a NaNoWriMo challenge novel.
Language: No profanity that I remember.
Sensuality: Clean. A proper traditional regency romance with only kisses.
Source: My purchased library. I got it when it was 90% off. Yay!
There were some other things I really loved. There were no 21rst century American colloquialisms in a British Regency time period novel. I loved the spotlight on the sociological ills of that time period including the treatment of wives and children as property which also included the still contemporary social problem of domestic violence and child abuse. I was also impressed there was a prominent though not main character of another race included in the story and the discussion of the racial social issues of that time period in an accurate believable way. I also was impressed to find this originated as a NaNoWriMo challenge novel.
Language: No profanity that I remember.
Sensuality: Clean. A proper traditional regency romance with only kisses.
Source: My purchased library. I got it when it was 90% off. Yay!
November 28, 2017
4.5 stars
This is a regency romance unlike any I have read before. Of course there were plenty of similarities too, but this story took an unbeaten path when the brooding, dark Duke becomes a bit desperate and takes matters of love into his own hands.
The story actually starts out a bit on the slow side with the Duke doing a lot of lurking- which sounds sort of creepy but I just dare you not to fall in love with the Duke of Blackdell. Once the story picks up, it's a surprising and fun ride to the end. I loved it!
Cora is a unique young lady with a curious mind and a passion for horticulture. Her mother is quite severe with her and when Cora has a chance to choose her own path, she takes it. I love how Cora thinks things through. She isn't too quick to judge, forgives quickly and has such a pleasant nature about her. I loved how both she and the duke were kind and respectful to those around them no matter their station.
The Duke! He is passionate but so controlled. Well, most of the time. As the story progresses and you get to know the Duke better, his longings and desperation make more sense. No matter what is happening, he is respectful of Cora and all the people around them. A true gentleman.
I loved the growing romance, the unveiling of personalities along with the situation and the genuine fondness I developed for these characters. The secondary characters were fantastic as well and really helped round out the story. So good!!
There is a novella that goes along with this story ( The Darkest Hour) and I'm reading that next month. I'm really looking forward to that!
Content: kissing, mild peril
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a regency romance unlike any I have read before. Of course there were plenty of similarities too, but this story took an unbeaten path when the brooding, dark Duke becomes a bit desperate and takes matters of love into his own hands.
The story actually starts out a bit on the slow side with the Duke doing a lot of lurking- which sounds sort of creepy but I just dare you not to fall in love with the Duke of Blackdell. Once the story picks up, it's a surprising and fun ride to the end. I loved it!
Cora is a unique young lady with a curious mind and a passion for horticulture. Her mother is quite severe with her and when Cora has a chance to choose her own path, she takes it. I love how Cora thinks things through. She isn't too quick to judge, forgives quickly and has such a pleasant nature about her. I loved how both she and the duke were kind and respectful to those around them no matter their station.
The Duke! He is passionate but so controlled. Well, most of the time. As the story progresses and you get to know the Duke better, his longings and desperation make more sense. No matter what is happening, he is respectful of Cora and all the people around them. A true gentleman.
I loved the growing romance, the unveiling of personalities along with the situation and the genuine fondness I developed for these characters. The secondary characters were fantastic as well and really helped round out the story. So good!!
There is a novella that goes along with this story ( The Darkest Hour) and I'm reading that next month. I'm really looking forward to that!
Content: kissing, mild peril
- I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 19, 2017
What a fun book! This book has adventure, danger, a kidnapping, and romance. There are many things to keep the attention and interest of the reader.
"The Darkest Summer" takes place in the regency era, but is not your typical regency romance. Adam Douglas, the Duke of Blackwell, is known as the Black Duke. I thought it was a play on his name, but there is more that could be considered in the name. He is brooding, good looking, dark brown hair, and keeps himself apart from society. His family also has a dark past. In spite of the characteristics ascribed to him, he is a good guy, that I couldn't help but like. He has had much to overcome and Cora Winfield just may be the woman to help him through his struggles.
What can you say about Cora? Only wonderful things. She is not your typical Lady. She wants to dig her hands in the dirt and care for plants. They are her passion. She cares for a plant throughout most of the book., It should have been discarded and left behind, but Cora is not that kind of a caregiver. She put everything she had into the plant, and in-spite of it's trials, it survived. That is the way that I view Cora and Adam. They have both had some trials, an abusive father and an over-controlling mother, yet they are good people who persevere and bloom.
There is a side romance going on at the same time as Cora and Adam's. It is a fun book with a few detours and unexpected bumps. It's clean with some references to past scandalous behavior of some of the characters. There is sweetly described kissing.
Source: I received a complimentary eBook from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
"The Darkest Summer" takes place in the regency era, but is not your typical regency romance. Adam Douglas, the Duke of Blackwell, is known as the Black Duke. I thought it was a play on his name, but there is more that could be considered in the name. He is brooding, good looking, dark brown hair, and keeps himself apart from society. His family also has a dark past. In spite of the characteristics ascribed to him, he is a good guy, that I couldn't help but like. He has had much to overcome and Cora Winfield just may be the woman to help him through his struggles.
What can you say about Cora? Only wonderful things. She is not your typical Lady. She wants to dig her hands in the dirt and care for plants. They are her passion. She cares for a plant throughout most of the book., It should have been discarded and left behind, but Cora is not that kind of a caregiver. She put everything she had into the plant, and in-spite of it's trials, it survived. That is the way that I view Cora and Adam. They have both had some trials, an abusive father and an over-controlling mother, yet they are good people who persevere and bloom.
There is a side romance going on at the same time as Cora and Adam's. It is a fun book with a few detours and unexpected bumps. It's clean with some references to past scandalous behavior of some of the characters. There is sweetly described kissing.
Source: I received a complimentary eBook from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
July 31, 2018
So much good in this story:} Isn't everyone fascinated by the story of Hades and Persephone, I couldn't wait to see how this author pulled it off. Creating two characters who would be believable in these rolls was a challenge and she did very well. This story was very entertaining and well done. There were a couple issues I had with it tho, but overall I didn't want to put it down and it was a great book to keep me in bed and resting my knee. Reading "The Darkest Hour" first was a good intro to Adam and his back story. It helps so much to understand him. Cora was a complex character that I just loved at the end of the story. This author gives you bits and pieces of there character as you read. It's fun to unravel there story. The issues I had were the amount of unnecessary drama. That was the longest carriage ride I have ever read SPOILERS( 3 near death experiences was a little much and Adam turning cold at the end lasted too long). This is a clean romance. It had some sweet kisses:} I would let my teen read this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. This regency themed book was different than the norm. I instantly loved Cora. I appreciated her knowledge and passion about plants and how that passion was pivotal in some of her decisions about her future. I also loved Adam. He was a wonderful, brooding mystery. I thought it was very well planned of the author to have Cora and Adam acquainted before the abduction (don’t worry, it’s on the back cover:). I kept thinking to myself, how is this going to work out and end up? Good thing I already liked Adam. I enjoyed how Adam and Cora’s relationship developed. Malcolm and Kate were also delights. At times I thought there were too many POV changes. Some were necessary, but some were not. And Cora’s mother was too much at times, but I was very happy with the ending and resolution with the characters.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All views and opinions expressed are my own.
November 17, 2017
Beautifully written, real, romantic (like, hello! :) ...while still being clean and sweet), and exciting! I thought Cora and Adam's relationship grew beautifully. I loved how the original story (the mother, Cora's love of plants/flowers, Adam's sometimes "dark" nature) is weaved in effortlessly. I loved the characters. The descriptions and emotions are real. The pacing was great, especially considering how long they had to travel. :) The cover is breathtaking and the title is perfect.
November 21, 2017
I loved this one! It's a regency romance, but it's quite a lot different from the ones you normally read. I liked everything about it!
I liked Cora, she's a spunky girl that is always a bit at odds with her mother. Cora's been labeled "an original" because of her love and car for all things flower related. I loved the way she's so concerned about the plants outside, because it just keeps raining and raining without stopping. I was a bit sad that her mother locked her out of the orangery where she kept her plants because of something Cora had done. I really liked that in the end, she was able to stand up for to her mother and get what she wanted.
Then there's Adam. I liked Adam. I liked that he liked Cora and could see what a wonderful person she was, even though she was seen as a bit odd by some. I liked the way he noticed her care for plants, and as soon as he noticed, he went out of his way to send her new and beautiful plants to care for. I liked the way he was, he knew what he wanted, and would stop at nothing to get it. Yet at the same time, he felt remorse for what he had done wrong. I had to laugh out loud when I realized just how Adam was going to go about getting what he wanted. It was funny that he had to kidnap Cora, when all he would have had to do was ask her, and she would have followed him anywhere.
I loved that you see some of the story through the eyes of the servants, Kate and Malcolm, and that they have their own little romance. I liked the way Malcolm watched out for Kate.
I loved the story line of this one. As I was reading it, I didn't even realize that it was a retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, but looking back now that I've finished, I can see it quite well. It's really well done!
If you like Regency Romance, you'll love this great book!
I liked Cora, she's a spunky girl that is always a bit at odds with her mother. Cora's been labeled "an original" because of her love and car for all things flower related. I loved the way she's so concerned about the plants outside, because it just keeps raining and raining without stopping. I was a bit sad that her mother locked her out of the orangery where she kept her plants because of something Cora had done. I really liked that in the end, she was able to stand up for to her mother and get what she wanted.
Then there's Adam. I liked Adam. I liked that he liked Cora and could see what a wonderful person she was, even though she was seen as a bit odd by some. I liked the way he noticed her care for plants, and as soon as he noticed, he went out of his way to send her new and beautiful plants to care for. I liked the way he was, he knew what he wanted, and would stop at nothing to get it. Yet at the same time, he felt remorse for what he had done wrong. I had to laugh out loud when I realized just how Adam was going to go about getting what he wanted. It was funny that he had to kidnap Cora, when all he would have had to do was ask her, and she would have followed him anywhere.
I loved that you see some of the story through the eyes of the servants, Kate and Malcolm, and that they have their own little romance. I liked the way Malcolm watched out for Kate.
I loved the story line of this one. As I was reading it, I didn't even realize that it was a retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth, but looking back now that I've finished, I can see it quite well. It's really well done!
If you like Regency Romance, you'll love this great book!
November 10, 2017
I love getting books in the mail, and there are times when I know a few books are coming during the same time period. In these instances, I love the surprise and discovery when I open these packages. I was very happy when I opened The Darkest Summer. I didn't recall the description, but I loved the cover. It would definitely catch my attention in a bookstore or library.
I was very happy that my good feelings from the outside held while I read the book. It was a very enjoyable, fast read. I've been reading a lot of Regency books, and after awhile a lot of them start feeling very much alike. I appreciated how The Darkest Summer has a different take on the genre. Cora has a huge inheritance coming her way and doesn't need to "marry well" just to survive. She is passionate about plants, of all things, and just wants to get back home to tend to her gardens. The Duke of Blackdell wasn't like the other Dukes I've read about, and being from Scotland added some extra adventure to the story.
My feelings about Cora's mother went back and forth. She seemed pretty awful initially, but as the story went along you could see that although selfish and misguided at times, she was trying to put Cora's best interests at heart.
There were many adventures on the road to Scotland. The story brought up several issues: slavery, masters taking advantage of their servants, overbearing parents, abuse, aftereffects of war, loyalty, etc. It was deep on some levels, while still having a fast pace. I’d read more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions express are my own.
I was very happy that my good feelings from the outside held while I read the book. It was a very enjoyable, fast read. I've been reading a lot of Regency books, and after awhile a lot of them start feeling very much alike. I appreciated how The Darkest Summer has a different take on the genre. Cora has a huge inheritance coming her way and doesn't need to "marry well" just to survive. She is passionate about plants, of all things, and just wants to get back home to tend to her gardens. The Duke of Blackdell wasn't like the other Dukes I've read about, and being from Scotland added some extra adventure to the story.
My feelings about Cora's mother went back and forth. She seemed pretty awful initially, but as the story went along you could see that although selfish and misguided at times, she was trying to put Cora's best interests at heart.
There were many adventures on the road to Scotland. The story brought up several issues: slavery, masters taking advantage of their servants, overbearing parents, abuse, aftereffects of war, loyalty, etc. It was deep on some levels, while still having a fast pace. I’d read more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions express are my own.
November 22, 2017
Readers will immediately fall in love with Rebecca J. Greenwood’s novel The Darkest Summer. This is a sweet regency era romance filled with adventure, danger, and excitement, as well as fun and delightfully charming characters. Although the story starts out a little slow, readers will not be disappointed as they keep reading and become enchanted and enthralled with it all. With a kidnapping and an affectionate romance, readers will thoroughly enjoy the development of the relationship between Adam and Cora the two main characters. This is a novel that will definitely capture the attention of readers, especially those that enjoy historical romance with a bit of an escapade!
Genre: historical, romance
Publisher: Sweetwater Books a division of Cedar Fort
Publication date: November 14, 2017
Number of pages: 294
A review copy of this book was provided by Cedar Fort. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: historical, romance
Publisher: Sweetwater Books a division of Cedar Fort
Publication date: November 14, 2017
Number of pages: 294
A review copy of this book was provided by Cedar Fort. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
January 23, 2020
I suppose things ended well, but the first half of the story was disturbing.
Adam's obsession with Cora was NOT romantic. He stalks her and then kidnaps her- not in a cute misunderstanding way, but in a forcibly gagging and tying her up way. Adam thinks of her as "his", wants to OWN her purity and goodness. He constantly manipulates Nora through "plant bribing"as well, exploiting her weakness. He must have her.
I'm used to the tortured hero characterization, but the Black Duke has the creepy feel of a mentally unbalanced person.
It was very uncomfortable to read.
It's unbelievable that Nora so quickly forgave her abductor and married him too. I understand the author was trying to stay close to the Hades and Persephone story, but I didnt enjoy it much.
Adam's obsession with Cora was NOT romantic. He stalks her and then kidnaps her- not in a cute misunderstanding way, but in a forcibly gagging and tying her up way. Adam thinks of her as "his", wants to OWN her purity and goodness. He constantly manipulates Nora through "plant bribing"as well, exploiting her weakness. He must have her.
I'm used to the tortured hero characterization, but the Black Duke has the creepy feel of a mentally unbalanced person.
It was very uncomfortable to read.
It's unbelievable that Nora so quickly forgave her abductor and married him too. I understand the author was trying to stay close to the Hades and Persephone story, but I didnt enjoy it much.
July 17, 2019
A regency retelling of the Greek myth of Hades and Persephone which stays very close to it's source material in plot. This unfortunately means that the author insists on love at first sight, which I don't believe in, so that weakens the story for me. I really liked the characters though and I loved the eventual relationship between Cora and Adam. Cora's relationship with her mother on the other hand did not work as the author intended. We are told that it is close and loving but what we see of Cora's mother is a woman who is dismissive, cold and punishing.
Popsugar Challenge 2019: Two books that share the same title (1)
Popsugar Challenge 2019: Two books that share the same title (1)
November 19, 2017
She got the year right
I have read several Regency novels set in 1816, but this novel got the details right about this particular year. It became known as the year without a summer. Although the inhabitants of Europe did not realize it at the time, the eruption of Mount Tamora in the Dutch East Indies in 1815 was to blame due to the volcanic ash in the upper atmosphere blocking the sun. However, the author uses this phenomenon as the setting and an important element for her novel .
I love how the author depicted the novels characters. With her peculiarities, Cora was an unlikely, yet lovable heroine. She was just distressed about the effect of the summer weather on plants, including crops and what poor growth would mean to the common people as she was about her court of fortune seeking sutures. Her mother, and over bearing overprotective personality, micro-managed her daughter's life, yet there was a little room for empathy for her for her reasoning. And our hero, Adam, struggled to overcome the effects of being raised by his abusive father, fighting what we know today as PTSD, and struggling with physical pain as a result of a battlefield injury not completely healed, was a hero easy to love and cheer for. I ached over his inability to know how to court according to the excepted customs of the day. Yet he loved deeply .
This novel engage me from the start, first with the character of Cora, and then with the action and suspense as the two struggled with the effects of the winter weather in summer while they traveled north. I also enjoyed the secondary romance between two very interesting characters. This was a sweet romance about some dark times, and one that was a pleasure to read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance.
I have read several Regency novels set in 1816, but this novel got the details right about this particular year. It became known as the year without a summer. Although the inhabitants of Europe did not realize it at the time, the eruption of Mount Tamora in the Dutch East Indies in 1815 was to blame due to the volcanic ash in the upper atmosphere blocking the sun. However, the author uses this phenomenon as the setting and an important element for her novel .
I love how the author depicted the novels characters. With her peculiarities, Cora was an unlikely, yet lovable heroine. She was just distressed about the effect of the summer weather on plants, including crops and what poor growth would mean to the common people as she was about her court of fortune seeking sutures. Her mother, and over bearing overprotective personality, micro-managed her daughter's life, yet there was a little room for empathy for her for her reasoning. And our hero, Adam, struggled to overcome the effects of being raised by his abusive father, fighting what we know today as PTSD, and struggling with physical pain as a result of a battlefield injury not completely healed, was a hero easy to love and cheer for. I ached over his inability to know how to court according to the excepted customs of the day. Yet he loved deeply .
This novel engage me from the start, first with the character of Cora, and then with the action and suspense as the two struggled with the effects of the winter weather in summer while they traveled north. I also enjoyed the secondary romance between two very interesting characters. This was a sweet romance about some dark times, and one that was a pleasure to read. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves a good romance.
September 2, 2019
3.5 stars. It was very interesting learning about the year 1816 in conjunction with reading The Darkest Summer, the year this novel is set. 1816 is referred to as the "Year Without a Summer", because of severe climate changes that occurred, which seems to have been mostly caused by the volcanic eruption of Mount Tombora in the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia. There is a lot of rain and mud in this story!
I think it would be difficult to retell the story of Hades and Persephone without the Hades character becoming unlikable, but the author does a good job in making both Cora and Adam likable characters. Though Adam did frustrate me a bit toward to end of the story.
This story is rather dark, and not just with the weather. Past hurts, trying circumstances, and some mild violence add to the somber feel of the story. There is joy scattered throughout though and the ending is a happy one for all.
The story does contain some mild violence and some kisses.
I think it would be difficult to retell the story of Hades and Persephone without the Hades character becoming unlikable, but the author does a good job in making both Cora and Adam likable characters. Though Adam did frustrate me a bit toward to end of the story.
This story is rather dark, and not just with the weather. Past hurts, trying circumstances, and some mild violence add to the somber feel of the story. There is joy scattered throughout though and the ending is a happy one for all.
The story does contain some mild violence and some kisses.
November 15, 2017
The Darkest Summer is a beautiful love story. I laughed, got a little teary-eyed and felt all the highs and lows along with the characters. I liked Lady Cora, she may have an air of innocence around her, but she knows what she wants and how she feels. Adam was her match and their relationship progress throughout the book inspired hope of true love. Both main characters are struggling with their own fears and their deepest desire is to find someone who can respect them and love them. Their journey is a long one with a few scary mishaps in-between. The characters throughout this story really brought the book to life.
I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys reading regency romances. I very much loved this book and highly recommend it. I found it to be a fast read and set true to its time period.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
I would recommend this story to anyone who enjoys reading regency romances. I very much loved this book and highly recommend it. I found it to be a fast read and set true to its time period.
I voluntarily received and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Final Rating: 5 Stars
August 20, 2020
Fantastic mythology retelling
A great recency retelling of Hades and Persephone! I loved the whirlwind adventure to get to Scotland and the humorous misadventures of the members of Cora's court. I loved the use of plants, rivers, rain and crashes to show their travel into the "underworld". Using the Year Without Summer was a clever thing indeed.
One of my favorite things about retellings is figuring out who each of the characters are. Spoilers below:
A great recency retelling of Hades and Persephone! I loved the whirlwind adventure to get to Scotland and the humorous misadventures of the members of Cora's court. I loved the use of plants, rivers, rain and crashes to show their travel into the "underworld". Using the Year Without Summer was a clever thing indeed.
One of my favorite things about retellings is figuring out who each of the characters are. Spoilers below:
November 22, 2019
This is a retelling of the story of Hades and Persephone, particularly when Hades kidnaps Persephone to take her to the Underworld; or, in this case, a far and distant place.... Scotland!
My favorite part was the setting! This is why I had to give it 5 stars!
I thought it was very clever to set this book in the year 1816. It literally was the Year Without a Summer, thanks to the eruption of Mt. Tambora in Indonesia in 1815. This volcanic eruption was so large that the debris and ash caused weather patterns to change in the Northern Hemisphere the following year. Crops failed, snow in July, famine, etc. It all really happened. I loved that the author tied this bit of history with the kidnapping of Cora (Persephone). Just as the earth chills and vegetation dies when Persephone is in the Underworld, so it happened when Adam kidnapped Cora to take her to Scotland.
This is a squeaky-clean, Regency romance. The book was well-written and well-thought out. The characters were multi-dimensional. The only problem I had with it was Adam's crisis about 75% of the way through the book. It didn't totally seem to fit with his character.
p.s. I'm also a sucker for a beautiful cover and this one just drew me in.
November 19, 2017
(4.5) It was good, cute and clean. Goodness, I wouldn’t want to go through what they experience on their dash to Scotland (3/4th of the book by the way but not boring). I loved the characters and enjoyed the story. Good development.
June 2, 2020
Sweet Romance
I enjoyed this clean and sweet historical romance. I learned a bit about the year of no summer. That makes me want to research that even more. The characters were likeable and kisses sweet. I look forward to more books by this author.
I enjoyed this clean and sweet historical romance. I learned a bit about the year of no summer. That makes me want to research that even more. The characters were likeable and kisses sweet. I look forward to more books by this author.
June 2, 2021
Inaccurate character behavior for the time period but forgivable because it is the retelling of Hades and Persephone. Also a little bit of Beauty and the Beast. I loved it and stayed up way too late reading.
November 24, 2017
A Regency novel that kept me turning pages.
August 16, 2018
The Darkest Summer was an ingenious and captivating retelling of the Hades and Persephone myth. I was absolutely glued to this story and when I could not read it, thought about it. This takes place during 1816 which is considered the year with no summer as we now know due to a volcanic eruption that affected the earth’s weather. We are talking snow in July- that is an absolute bone chilling nightmare for me.
Our characters Adam (Hades) and Cora (Persephone) happen to meet that summer. Cora is concerned for the crops and plants throughout England, which in turn causes her to be concerned for the people due to the shortage of crops that can grow. Cora is a horticulturist, and though I do not have a green thumb, I enjoyed the way the author wrote about her passion and her great care of plants and flowers.
Adam, our Hades, is a guy that I really liked. He was enamored with Cora from the start and pursues her as only a gentleman can even with his family’s dark past. He is a duke and someone that Cora’s very particular mother might accept for her daughter- if not for his family history and the fact that he is a Scottish duke with his lands nowhere near hers. So I know how the myth goes and I knew that there would be an abduction scene I just wasn’t sure how it would play out and when it would happen.
Like I said, I really liked Adam, so when that fateful scene occurred (even knowing it was going to happen), the author was able to surprise me anyway. Adam, how could you! The rest of the story was quite an adventure and I was wondering how in the world Cora, who had feelings for Adam would ever forgive him.
This was a masterful told retelling of a myth with all the characters that I remembered in it. Even down to the family history of the Greek gods. I really hope we get more of these retellings. I am interested in Nathan’s (Poseidon) story and maybe even a redemption story for Jude (Zeus).
I purchased this book for my own reading enjoyment, and enjoyed it I did.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
Our characters Adam (Hades) and Cora (Persephone) happen to meet that summer. Cora is concerned for the crops and plants throughout England, which in turn causes her to be concerned for the people due to the shortage of crops that can grow. Cora is a horticulturist, and though I do not have a green thumb, I enjoyed the way the author wrote about her passion and her great care of plants and flowers.
Adam, our Hades, is a guy that I really liked. He was enamored with Cora from the start and pursues her as only a gentleman can even with his family’s dark past. He is a duke and someone that Cora’s very particular mother might accept for her daughter- if not for his family history and the fact that he is a Scottish duke with his lands nowhere near hers. So I know how the myth goes and I knew that there would be an abduction scene I just wasn’t sure how it would play out and when it would happen.
Like I said, I really liked Adam, so when that fateful scene occurred (even knowing it was going to happen), the author was able to surprise me anyway. Adam, how could you! The rest of the story was quite an adventure and I was wondering how in the world Cora, who had feelings for Adam would ever forgive him.
This was a masterful told retelling of a myth with all the characters that I remembered in it. Even down to the family history of the Greek gods. I really hope we get more of these retellings. I am interested in Nathan’s (Poseidon) story and maybe even a redemption story for Jude (Zeus).
I purchased this book for my own reading enjoyment, and enjoyed it I did.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
April 3, 2019
I’ve never read the story of Hades and Persephone, so to me this was just another Regency story. It’s also my first book by author Rebecca J. Greenwood.
Lady Cora Winfield and the tall, dark Duke of Blackdale from Scotland, Adam Douglas have an instant connection even before they are formally introduced. As Adam maneuvers his life to be where Lady Cora is, the two are visual magnets to each other. Finally, when they meet formally, the two have an even more intense connection. The problem is Cora’s domineering mother who does not approve of the Duke and pushes four other unattached men of worth in her direction.
Lord Blackdale decides to do something that would be frowned on by all and kidnaps the lovely Cora as she walks in the park. She is shocked, frustrated and excited all at the same time. The adventure takes the couple toward Gretna Green in Scotland where couples can marry easily.
I did enjoy the story although it seemed like it took forever to get to Scotland. The story was developed well enough and eventually action added the interest I was craving. The ending when some of those competing gentleman and Cora’s mother arrived made for a good ending that I never predicted. I did like the ending!
I give this book 3½ stars I would definitely like to read more by Rebecca Greenwood.
Lady Cora Winfield and the tall, dark Duke of Blackdale from Scotland, Adam Douglas have an instant connection even before they are formally introduced. As Adam maneuvers his life to be where Lady Cora is, the two are visual magnets to each other. Finally, when they meet formally, the two have an even more intense connection. The problem is Cora’s domineering mother who does not approve of the Duke and pushes four other unattached men of worth in her direction.
Lord Blackdale decides to do something that would be frowned on by all and kidnaps the lovely Cora as she walks in the park. She is shocked, frustrated and excited all at the same time. The adventure takes the couple toward Gretna Green in Scotland where couples can marry easily.
I did enjoy the story although it seemed like it took forever to get to Scotland. The story was developed well enough and eventually action added the interest I was craving. The ending when some of those competing gentleman and Cora’s mother arrived made for a good ending that I never predicted. I did like the ending!
I give this book 3½ stars I would definitely like to read more by Rebecca Greenwood.
December 19, 2017
I felt like this story had potential but it started off a little slow. It finally picked up pace a bit only to drag on and on and on....Lady Cora was bored and restless during her carriage ride/abduction and so was I. Every single mishap imaginable didn’t even make the trip more interesting for me...instead, I found myself rolling my eyes because it seemed a bit excessive.
It felt like in the first half of the book, not enough happened and then in the second half, too much happened. It was just all over the place.
I did, however, like Cora and liked the parts when the characters interacted. I just wish there had been more of that, instead of every detail of the carriage ride and trip.
It felt like in the first half of the book, not enough happened and then in the second half, too much happened. It was just all over the place.
I did, however, like Cora and liked the parts when the characters interacted. I just wish there had been more of that, instead of every detail of the carriage ride and trip.
August 29, 2019
2,5 stars
An okay story, but honestly it could have been better. 80 per cent of the book was in a carriage it feels like.. I would have had more of seeing Adam show Cora his home and how he treats his people, it would have made for a more believable and less cringy hades and persophone kidnapping.
An okay story, but honestly it could have been better. 80 per cent of the book was in a carriage it feels like.. I would have had more of seeing Adam show Cora his home and how he treats his people, it would have made for a more believable and less cringy hades and persophone kidnapping.
December 23, 2017
The Endless Carriage Ride
I thought it was good but not more than that. Spoiler Alert: The carriage ride took approximately 60% of the book. I felt like I wanted to jump out of the carriage and I was only reading about it. Besides that everything else was pretty good.
I thought it was good but not more than that. Spoiler Alert: The carriage ride took approximately 60% of the book. I felt like I wanted to jump out of the carriage and I was only reading about it. Besides that everything else was pretty good.
November 10, 2019
I give this book 3.5 stars. I did enjoy the story and I thought it was well written, but there were just a few things that I didn’t love. Some of it was just a little bit too unbelievable and the carriage ride felt like most of the book.
February 13, 2018
This was a wonderful surprise and I give it a solid 4.5
I picked up this book while browsing through the "new arrival" shelves at my local library. I was drawn by the beautiful cover. It sounded intriguing as well. Not knowing anything about the author and having been unaware of the reviews for it, I placed it in my book bag and checked it out.
Later I checked its rating on Goodreads and was surprised to see so many of the authors that I follow giving this title rave reviews. So I set aside all the other books in my TBR pile and started on this one.
Lady Cora and Duke Adam are our main characters. Lady Cora is almost a spinster, going to London on her 2nd season while the Duke is also in London but for business purposes. They meet while Duke was on a ride through Hyde Park and Lady Cora was busy inspecting the flowers in the park. They met on a summer day but in this particular year, the weather was so awful and the sun hardly came out. 1898 would later be dubbed as the year without summer because of all the rain (and even some snow). Adam was smitten and intrigued by the young lady and started to go to social functions. After a few meetings, he declared his intentions for marriage towards Lady Cora to her mother, the dowager Winfield. The mother flat out refused his suit and of course that made Adam mad. He, having some military experience, decided to take matters in his hands and kidnap Lady Cora. Through that experience they get to know each other better and of course you will guess it, there is a happy ending.
What I love about it:
-The omage to the famous story of Hades and Persephone. I liked this take on that classic myth.
-I liked the history sprinkled within this story. There were far more history that I've learned in this book than any other historical or regency romance that I've ever read. The author did a find job with her research. I always hear about Gretna Green in other books but having to see the scene play out and what exactly happens at the "anvil" was fascinating to me. I also enjoyed learning about the standards at that time regarding who to do for help when a lady is abducted or elopes. The history connecting to Waterlooo was also good. Over all I was fascinated by all the true history sprinkled in this fiction book.
- I liked Kate and Morti's love story here too. They were Adam's servants and they reminded me of John Bates and Anna Smith from Downton Abbey. Now granted Kate is a colored gal and nothing like Anna in the physical sense but reading about them just reminded me of those two characters.
-Speaking of secondary characters, I also liked the others that was included in this book. Even Lady Cora's suitors. They were all interesting characters.
What I did not quite like about it:
-Honestly this started slow for me. I totally understand that characters need to be developed and scenes need to unfold before the "good stuff" really comes out but I have read some books that draws you in from the very first page that when a book starts slowly, it already gets me worried.
-There are times when I did not like the choices that the two main characters were making. This happened a lot at the latter part of the book. I especially did not get the choice of Adam to have a loveless marriage just so that he can bring back his "honor". What the heck? After all that he had put Cora in, now he decided to be honorable. I did not buy that for one second. Cora is no better. She too have made some pretty bold decisions at the end there making it seem a little too desperate in my eyes.
-The moment when they were finally called "husband" and "wife" was a bit odd for me. I am not so knowledgeable about how things happen during that time, at that specific place, but really to just say it out loud considers one married? Wow! Kinda takes away from the climax of the story. I wished there were more to their wedding.
Over all I thought this book was a delight surprise. It was not totally perfect but the uniqueness of the story line plus the history added to it made it fascinating to read.
I picked up this book while browsing through the "new arrival" shelves at my local library. I was drawn by the beautiful cover. It sounded intriguing as well. Not knowing anything about the author and having been unaware of the reviews for it, I placed it in my book bag and checked it out.
Later I checked its rating on Goodreads and was surprised to see so many of the authors that I follow giving this title rave reviews. So I set aside all the other books in my TBR pile and started on this one.
Lady Cora and Duke Adam are our main characters. Lady Cora is almost a spinster, going to London on her 2nd season while the Duke is also in London but for business purposes. They meet while Duke was on a ride through Hyde Park and Lady Cora was busy inspecting the flowers in the park. They met on a summer day but in this particular year, the weather was so awful and the sun hardly came out. 1898 would later be dubbed as the year without summer because of all the rain (and even some snow). Adam was smitten and intrigued by the young lady and started to go to social functions. After a few meetings, he declared his intentions for marriage towards Lady Cora to her mother, the dowager Winfield. The mother flat out refused his suit and of course that made Adam mad. He, having some military experience, decided to take matters in his hands and kidnap Lady Cora. Through that experience they get to know each other better and of course you will guess it, there is a happy ending.
What I love about it:
-The omage to the famous story of Hades and Persephone. I liked this take on that classic myth.
-I liked the history sprinkled within this story. There were far more history that I've learned in this book than any other historical or regency romance that I've ever read. The author did a find job with her research. I always hear about Gretna Green in other books but having to see the scene play out and what exactly happens at the "anvil" was fascinating to me. I also enjoyed learning about the standards at that time regarding who to do for help when a lady is abducted or elopes. The history connecting to Waterlooo was also good. Over all I was fascinated by all the true history sprinkled in this fiction book.
- I liked Kate and Morti's love story here too. They were Adam's servants and they reminded me of John Bates and Anna Smith from Downton Abbey. Now granted Kate is a colored gal and nothing like Anna in the physical sense but reading about them just reminded me of those two characters.
-Speaking of secondary characters, I also liked the others that was included in this book. Even Lady Cora's suitors. They were all interesting characters.
What I did not quite like about it:
-Honestly this started slow for me. I totally understand that characters need to be developed and scenes need to unfold before the "good stuff" really comes out but I have read some books that draws you in from the very first page that when a book starts slowly, it already gets me worried.
-There are times when I did not like the choices that the two main characters were making. This happened a lot at the latter part of the book. I especially did not get the choice of Adam to have a loveless marriage just so that he can bring back his "honor". What the heck? After all that he had put Cora in, now he decided to be honorable. I did not buy that for one second. Cora is no better. She too have made some pretty bold decisions at the end there making it seem a little too desperate in my eyes.
-The moment when they were finally called "husband" and "wife" was a bit odd for me. I am not so knowledgeable about how things happen during that time, at that specific place, but really to just say it out loud considers one married? Wow! Kinda takes away from the climax of the story. I wished there were more to their wedding.
Over all I thought this book was a delight surprise. It was not totally perfect but the uniqueness of the story line plus the history added to it made it fascinating to read.
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