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Nyár a Comói-tónál
Floriana számára egy esküvői meghívás változtatott meg mindent...
Ha nem tereli el a gondolatait, hogy élete szerelme egy másik nőt vesz feleségül, észrevette volna a közeledő kocsit.
Ha látta volna az autót, nem kellett volna az idős vénkisasszonynak, Esme Silcoxnak és Adam Strongnak, a helyi ingatlanfejlesztőnek a segítségére sietnie.
És ha Floriana nem ismerkedik meg Adammel és Esmevel, soha nem lett volna bátorsága részt venni Seb esküvőjén a gyönyörű Comói-tó partján.
Esmeben az olasz nyaralóhely emlékeket ébreszt, tizenkilenc évesen itt lett elsőször szerelmes. Gyakran eltöprengett, hogy mi történt a férfival, aki ellopta a szívét - és megváltoztatta az életét.
Esme and Floriana számára eljött az idő, hogy mindketten szembe nézzenek a múltjukkal - és a jövőjükkel - a Comói-tó, elbűvölő, romantikus partjain.
Csodálatos regény elvesztett szerelemről, sorsról és második esélyekről...
Santa Montefiore, Jill Mansell, Katie Fforde és Rosamunde Pilcher rajongóknak különösen ajánlott.
Ha nem tereli el a gondolatait, hogy élete szerelme egy másik nőt vesz feleségül, észrevette volna a közeledő kocsit.
Ha látta volna az autót, nem kellett volna az idős vénkisasszonynak, Esme Silcoxnak és Adam Strongnak, a helyi ingatlanfejlesztőnek a segítségére sietnie.
És ha Floriana nem ismerkedik meg Adammel és Esmevel, soha nem lett volna bátorsága részt venni Seb esküvőjén a gyönyörű Comói-tó partján.
Esmeben az olasz nyaralóhely emlékeket ébreszt, tizenkilenc évesen itt lett elsőször szerelmes. Gyakran eltöprengett, hogy mi történt a férfival, aki ellopta a szívét - és megváltoztatta az életét.
Esme and Floriana számára eljött az idő, hogy mindketten szembe nézzenek a múltjukkal - és a jövőjükkel - a Comói-tó, elbűvölő, romantikus partjain.
Csodálatos regény elvesztett szerelemről, sorsról és második esélyekről...
Santa Montefiore, Jill Mansell, Katie Fforde és Rosamunde Pilcher rajongóknak különösen ajánlott.
500 pages, Paperback
First published November 7, 2013
293 people are currently reading
3132 people want to read
About the author
Erica James
55 books1,059 followersWith an insatiable appetite for other people's business, Erica James will readily strike up conversation with strangers in the hope of unearthing a useful gem for her writing. She finds it the best way to write authentic characters for her novels, although her two grown-up sons claim they will never recover from a childhood spent in a perpetual state of embarrassment at their mother's compulsion.
The author of nineteen bestselling novels, and the winner of the 2006 Romantic Novel of the Year Award, Erica divides her time between Suffolk and Lake Como in Italy.
The author of nineteen bestselling novels, and the winner of the 2006 Romantic Novel of the Year Award, Erica divides her time between Suffolk and Lake Como in Italy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 440 reviews
August 29, 2021
Set in the lakes of Italy mostly, such a beautiful setting.
I loved how the two came together. This is not just a love story it has some bite to it.
Lots of back story that I loved.
Erica James writing is sublime and her characters are real people…..to me.
I loved how the two came together. This is not just a love story it has some bite to it.
Lots of back story that I loved.
Erica James writing is sublime and her characters are real people…..to me.
February 24, 2018
Such a lovely lovely book. Readers of Jojo Moyes and Lucinda Riley will definitely enjoy this one! I like when two stories are told in one book, in a detailed manner. The absolute best thing about this one is the language. Oh God its written so well and with such vivid descriptions you feel like you´re really apart of their story. I just wished there was more dialogue. My only complain.
October 25, 2023
Catching Up…
My friend, Verlie who has been generously donating books to my Little Free Library Shed, introduced me to Erica James.
And so…
I have allowed myself to be transported into worlds that have allowed me to travel to such beautiful places beyond my treasured home.
This story is set partly in Oxford and the Italian Lakes (Lake Como and the lakeside town of Bellagio), which is mentioned in the book.
Premise: When Oxford tour guide Floriana is knocked down by a car, little did she know that this traumatic event would lead to gaining two special friends.
Property developer Adam who is nursing a broken heart and elderly spinster Esme both come to her aid.
And…
Despite all 3 being from vastly different backgrounds, they find connection.
Each character has their own “sad” story.
And yet…
Their characters bring a brightness to the story that continues to unfold.
Floriana shows a quirky side, Adam tends to be a more serious problem solver, and Esme seems wise and perceptive.
But…
What of their backgrounds – what happened to Adam, what is Floriana’s heartache, and what is Esme’s past?
The book does its job of telling their backstories, while bringing them all together to the present moment.
At the same time…
Readers are treated to the beautiful scenery, which could be a character, in itself. The three main characters are engaging, and as readers we can’t help but root for them to find their happily-ever-after.
February 21, 2014
I was really looking forward to reading Summer At The Lake, not least because the weather has been so awful just lately, and I thought it would great to be able to transport myself away to the sunnier climes of Italy.
This novel is 400 pages of pure indulgence, I absolutely loved it. Despite the length, I raced through it, devouring the story which is filled with wonderfully created characters and takes the reader from the dreamy spires of Oxford to the evocative Lake Como in Italy.
Three very unlikely friends meet when Floriana is knocked over by a car. Adam Strong and Esme Silcox rush to help her and it is at that moment that a firm friendship between the three of them is formed. Floriana is an Oxford tour guide, a free spirit, independent, and a little bit quirky. She is also reeling with shock, having just received an invitation to the wedding of one of her oldest and closest friends, Seb. Seb and Floriana lost touch a while ago and it is clear that Floriana feels more than friendship toward him. Esme is in her 80s, a gentle and elegant lady who never married and spends her days listening to the radio with just her faithful cat for company. Adam Strong is a property developer, with a broken heart and welcomes the opportunity to be the knight in shining armour, it may help him to get over his latest failed relationship.
Erica James cleverly weaves the stories of each of the character into the here and now. As these three main characters form their friendship and begin to open up to each other, the reader learns their story too. For me, Esme's story of her time spent in Italy with her father, over sixty years ago was the most engaging and fascinating. It is clear that this elderly spinster has many secrets hidden in her past, and as she tells of how her heart was broken by the only man she ever loved, and the tragedy that followed, the story takes another turn.
Despite loving Esme's story best, I found both Adam and Floriana to be really well developed characters too, with their own stories of disappointment and heartbreak that impact on the people that they have become.
The three friends find themselves travelling together to Italy, so that both Floriana and Esme can face up to things that have happened in the past and learn to move on without so much regret and sorrow. Their seven days in Italy are beautifully written, the sense of the place with the sights, sounds and smells of Lake Como and the surrounding towns and villages is just wonderful, and as their friendship develops, so do the characters.
I was totally hooked by Summer At The Lake, it's the perfect read for either a sunny afternoon in the garden or curled up on the sofa in front of the fire. A real feel-good read, with characters and settings that the reader will really care for, and maybe even fall just a little in love with!
This novel is 400 pages of pure indulgence, I absolutely loved it. Despite the length, I raced through it, devouring the story which is filled with wonderfully created characters and takes the reader from the dreamy spires of Oxford to the evocative Lake Como in Italy.
Three very unlikely friends meet when Floriana is knocked over by a car. Adam Strong and Esme Silcox rush to help her and it is at that moment that a firm friendship between the three of them is formed. Floriana is an Oxford tour guide, a free spirit, independent, and a little bit quirky. She is also reeling with shock, having just received an invitation to the wedding of one of her oldest and closest friends, Seb. Seb and Floriana lost touch a while ago and it is clear that Floriana feels more than friendship toward him. Esme is in her 80s, a gentle and elegant lady who never married and spends her days listening to the radio with just her faithful cat for company. Adam Strong is a property developer, with a broken heart and welcomes the opportunity to be the knight in shining armour, it may help him to get over his latest failed relationship.
Erica James cleverly weaves the stories of each of the character into the here and now. As these three main characters form their friendship and begin to open up to each other, the reader learns their story too. For me, Esme's story of her time spent in Italy with her father, over sixty years ago was the most engaging and fascinating. It is clear that this elderly spinster has many secrets hidden in her past, and as she tells of how her heart was broken by the only man she ever loved, and the tragedy that followed, the story takes another turn.
Despite loving Esme's story best, I found both Adam and Floriana to be really well developed characters too, with their own stories of disappointment and heartbreak that impact on the people that they have become.
The three friends find themselves travelling together to Italy, so that both Floriana and Esme can face up to things that have happened in the past and learn to move on without so much regret and sorrow. Their seven days in Italy are beautifully written, the sense of the place with the sights, sounds and smells of Lake Como and the surrounding towns and villages is just wonderful, and as their friendship develops, so do the characters.
I was totally hooked by Summer At The Lake, it's the perfect read for either a sunny afternoon in the garden or curled up on the sofa in front of the fire. A real feel-good read, with characters and settings that the reader will really care for, and maybe even fall just a little in love with!
October 22, 2018
Three and a half stars.
The story starts with an unexpected wedding invitation, or at least a save the date for a wedding. As a result, Floriana Day is not paying attention and is struck by a hit and run driver. Two people come to her rescue. One is Esme Silcox, a sprightly woman in her eighties and the other is Adam Strong, a property developer. So begins a three way friendship that is lovely to read about. They show concern for each other and encourage each other to undertake hard situations. The story also drifts back to the young Esme to the love that changed her life. For Esme, Floriana and Adam, is it ever possible to face the past and if they do, what then? What will it mean for the future?
I loved the way the friendship developed between the three main characters and the way they look out for each other, and at times interfere a little to move events along. Floriana is a bubbly likable character with a zest for life. Esme is a strong, independent woman who has a heart for others. Adam, at first appears a little staid but over time the real character of the man shines through.
I enjoyed this story and since I have read a number by this author I was surprised this one had escaped me till now. It is light but the characters are well drawn, though there are a couple that were selfish and unlikable in the extreme. Anyone who likes a feel good story with a picturesque setting and likable characters should enjoy this. Maybe the ending is a bit neat but I was happy to go along with it. Just a gentle, feel good story of friendship, love, and choices that mostly appealed to me.
The story starts with an unexpected wedding invitation, or at least a save the date for a wedding. As a result, Floriana Day is not paying attention and is struck by a hit and run driver. Two people come to her rescue. One is Esme Silcox, a sprightly woman in her eighties and the other is Adam Strong, a property developer. So begins a three way friendship that is lovely to read about. They show concern for each other and encourage each other to undertake hard situations. The story also drifts back to the young Esme to the love that changed her life. For Esme, Floriana and Adam, is it ever possible to face the past and if they do, what then? What will it mean for the future?
I loved the way the friendship developed between the three main characters and the way they look out for each other, and at times interfere a little to move events along. Floriana is a bubbly likable character with a zest for life. Esme is a strong, independent woman who has a heart for others. Adam, at first appears a little staid but over time the real character of the man shines through.
I enjoyed this story and since I have read a number by this author I was surprised this one had escaped me till now. It is light but the characters are well drawn, though there are a couple that were selfish and unlikable in the extreme. Anyone who likes a feel good story with a picturesque setting and likable characters should enjoy this. Maybe the ending is a bit neat but I was happy to go along with it. Just a gentle, feel good story of friendship, love, and choices that mostly appealed to me.
March 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this book it was such a lovely, gentle read and the characters were so believable and kind to each other. They always seemed to want to help each other out when the was a problem. The story just flowed along and I got well into this book. My thanks to my daughter for lending me such a lovely book.
August 12, 2021
The story observes how sometimes if a relationship/friendship doesn't work out in your favour, it's better to let it go because maybe those ppl aren't right for you. You may feel your world falling apart and nothing making sense but destiny works in strange ways and the ppl who are meant for you will always find their way to you.
This a wholesome story about Floriana, Esme and Adam, three perfect strangers who were brought together by an accident. When they get to know each other they find a respite in each other's company. They just fit in. They know how right their friendship is and how valuable their connection is.
This a wholesome story about Floriana, Esme and Adam, three perfect strangers who were brought together by an accident. When they get to know each other they find a respite in each other's company. They just fit in. They know how right their friendship is and how valuable their connection is.
April 18, 2024
Nebloga knyga, vietomis gal kiek per daug ištęsta. Tikrai nesinorėjo jos padėti į šalį, bet ir didelio įspūdžio nepaliko.
September 18, 2014
OK I admit it I'm not a chic-lit reader and I was forced to read this for our book club. Its really bad. Poor characters, cheesy plot and boring boring overuse of exposition. Do we need to know that the main character boils his peas for 10 minutes? Warms his plates. Drinks water because he is the nominated driver...Needs to take a dip in the sea to cool off and its not because he's hot..(nudge nudge wink wink) No we don't!!! And when Ms James likens one of the soppy heroes emotional traumas to 'their very own Ground Zero' I'd had enough. Excruciatingly bad taste. This book has re-inforced my belief that I need to steer clear of fluffy stuff that insults my intelligence. I am seriously puzzled at how this book get such rave reviews from serious newspaper journals??? Sigh.
July 17, 2014
Wow. what a great book, I lost myself completely in this book, I was there with Esme, Floriana, Adam and Seb and the Foul Imogen at Lake Como, I have never been but can dream! The characters are great and the friendship that builds up between Esme, Floriana and Adam from the beginning is so enthralling. I thought at the beginning that Floriana and Adam would get together but the twists and turns that is takes keeps your interest throughout the story. I love Esme and her love affair with Marco was so lovely, even the bad bits. If you want a great story to read whilst on the beach, in the garden, in a tent or anywhere at all this is the book for you. However do not intend to read bits of it during your lunch break it only depresses you when you have to put it down and go back to work!
May 12, 2023
For my full review, visit me at https://mrsbrownsbooks.wordpress.com/...
My second read from this author and another book that I really enjoyed. The characters were charming and the eventual Italian setting was gorgeous. Wanting to escape the dreary autumnal weather, this book was the perfect pick me up sort of read.
My second read from this author and another book that I really enjoyed. The characters were charming and the eventual Italian setting was gorgeous. Wanting to escape the dreary autumnal weather, this book was the perfect pick me up sort of read.
August 1, 2020
Dar turbūt nesu taip ilgai knygos kankinus, iki pat paskutinio sakinio. Lėtai be galo skaitėsi. Lyg ir viskas su ta istorija gerai, bet... paskaitai ir padedi į šoną, gromuliuoji smegenyse,ką perskaitei. Skaitai ir juste junti nusivylimą - už praleistas progas, neišsakytus žodžius arba per daug išsakytus. Visi nutylėjimai ir skausmas - viskas šiame romane. Kaip ir meilė, aišku. Kaip ir tikrame gyvenime. Nežinau, ko pritrūko šiai istorijai - gal tiesiog perkankinau knygą, bet vistiek užsibrėžiau pabaigt.
June 20, 2021
Great book, got the reading suggestion from my mum and was definately worth the read. Love the characters especially Esme.
September 19, 2014
What a TERRIBLE book! I seriously did not even finish reading this book, because it took me for ever to get to page 300. And I stopped there. I couldn't take it anymore. I do not understand why this book gets such raving reviews. It's badly written, the story is something a 16-year-old makes up when giving writing a go and the characters are too stereo-typical, even for a chicklit novel.
Okay. So. Let's put a bit more structure in my critique.
First off: I don't have a thing against chicklit. I like chicklit. And I know that chicklit is easy reading, no deep stuff, and that the first male and female character you encounter are the ones who end up together. And if there has to be an old lady involved, then OF COURSE she is the first one to notice the attraction and do some match making. Up to that point, I got the book, even if the meeting of these three persons was already a bit too silly. But then, this book also wants to be clever. It's like the book is telling you: look at me, I'm a silly romance but I'm randomly throwing words at you like "ignominy" and "surreptitiously" (there were worse ones, but I can't seem to find them anymore :P). As if James was trying to lift the book out of its silly-romance-genre, but throwing a few posh words in doesn't work.
Secondly, what bothered me more was the storytelling. For example: *spoiler* At some point Floriana is riding her bike to work when she remembers Seb just called. Fine. Then she thinks about how Seb called her a week earlier, when she agreed to come to his wedding. Okay. They had this little conversation about how she has to try not to laugh when seeing him in a tuxedo, he remarks that she has seen him in worse states. THEN we go way back to when Seb apparently was on drugs and tried to throw himself off a bridge. I'm sorry. Wasn't Floriana just on her bike remembering to return a phonecall to Seb later that evening?
And the book is filled with these weird bridges. It's always this: we are at one point in time, someone remembers a thing said or done a week earlier which suddenly means we have an entire chapter about something that happened ten years earlier.
And then I haven't even mentioned the fact that somewhere in the middle of the book the entire story is forgotten, and we have to read the enormously cliched juvenile romance of Esme. If you want to write a cliched juvenile romance in 1960's Italy and then have that character go back there when she's 80, fine. But don't throw it into another romance where the romance is actually about the old woman's friends, for peaches sake!
THIRDLY! The characters in this novel are as flat as they can be. Just giving us facts and stories about things that happened in their past does not give them proper depth. Floriana is apparently a happy-go-lucky kind of gal, but honestly, I never got that from her. Adam is a serious, heart-broken loner, but he knows loads of people who always help him out, and besides, hes's just a bore. And Esme is a stick-your-nose-in old biddy, despite the THOUSANDS of times it being denied in this book. Seb is the idiot who rejected Floriana and then finally, after two years and on his wedding day realises his mistake (I didn't even read that part, just a few sentences while skipping ahead, and HEY what a surprise). Jesse is the girl-from-hell (and exactly the same as Imogen, Seb's fiancee) and seeing the way Adam is, why the hell were they ever a couple. Just so she could be the reason for Adam to have a 'broken heart', that's why.
And Lord, the characters in ancient Italy were even worse! Marco the perfect guy who was an impossible love because he wanted to be a priest. Angelo the loverboy. The household staff being typical household staff. The woman “in love” with Esme's father.
So no, even for a summer read, “Summer at the Lake” is a horrible book. Terribly written and completely non-engaging characters. I tried and I tried, but I really couldn't finish this book. Horrible. Not even worth a star, but then my rating wouldn't show, mehehe :P
Okay. So. Let's put a bit more structure in my critique.
First off: I don't have a thing against chicklit. I like chicklit. And I know that chicklit is easy reading, no deep stuff, and that the first male and female character you encounter are the ones who end up together. And if there has to be an old lady involved, then OF COURSE she is the first one to notice the attraction and do some match making. Up to that point, I got the book, even if the meeting of these three persons was already a bit too silly. But then, this book also wants to be clever. It's like the book is telling you: look at me, I'm a silly romance but I'm randomly throwing words at you like "ignominy" and "surreptitiously" (there were worse ones, but I can't seem to find them anymore :P). As if James was trying to lift the book out of its silly-romance-genre, but throwing a few posh words in doesn't work.
Secondly, what bothered me more was the storytelling. For example: *spoiler* At some point Floriana is riding her bike to work when she remembers Seb just called. Fine. Then she thinks about how Seb called her a week earlier, when she agreed to come to his wedding. Okay. They had this little conversation about how she has to try not to laugh when seeing him in a tuxedo, he remarks that she has seen him in worse states. THEN we go way back to when Seb apparently was on drugs and tried to throw himself off a bridge. I'm sorry. Wasn't Floriana just on her bike remembering to return a phonecall to Seb later that evening?
And the book is filled with these weird bridges. It's always this: we are at one point in time, someone remembers a thing said or done a week earlier which suddenly means we have an entire chapter about something that happened ten years earlier.
And then I haven't even mentioned the fact that somewhere in the middle of the book the entire story is forgotten, and we have to read the enormously cliched juvenile romance of Esme. If you want to write a cliched juvenile romance in 1960's Italy and then have that character go back there when she's 80, fine. But don't throw it into another romance where the romance is actually about the old woman's friends, for peaches sake!
THIRDLY! The characters in this novel are as flat as they can be. Just giving us facts and stories about things that happened in their past does not give them proper depth. Floriana is apparently a happy-go-lucky kind of gal, but honestly, I never got that from her. Adam is a serious, heart-broken loner, but he knows loads of people who always help him out, and besides, hes's just a bore. And Esme is a stick-your-nose-in old biddy, despite the THOUSANDS of times it being denied in this book. Seb is the idiot who rejected Floriana and then finally, after two years and on his wedding day realises his mistake (I didn't even read that part, just a few sentences while skipping ahead, and HEY what a surprise). Jesse is the girl-from-hell (and exactly the same as Imogen, Seb's fiancee) and seeing the way Adam is, why the hell were they ever a couple. Just so she could be the reason for Adam to have a 'broken heart', that's why.
And Lord, the characters in ancient Italy were even worse! Marco the perfect guy who was an impossible love because he wanted to be a priest. Angelo the loverboy. The household staff being typical household staff. The woman “in love” with Esme's father.
So no, even for a summer read, “Summer at the Lake” is a horrible book. Terribly written and completely non-engaging characters. I tried and I tried, but I really couldn't finish this book. Horrible. Not even worth a star, but then my rating wouldn't show, mehehe :P
August 23, 2025
I heard this book on Libby as I was looking for something related to summer.
It is a story about three people, who come together in the most unlikely circumstances and become friends.
Foriana, Adam & Esme, are dealing with their past, second chances and an unknown future.
They journey to Lake Como in Italy, for Floriana’s Ex’s wedding, a place where Esme starts searching her first love.
Adam has had a breakup and tagged along as a plus one with Floriana, whom he secretly loves but is unsure if she will reciprocate the feelings.
Floriana, is concerned about Seb, her EX, who has fallen into depression in the past.
If you are looking for a relaxed read, do pick it up. It takes you to Lake Como, Italy and London.
Its like a virtual holiday.
It is a story about three people, who come together in the most unlikely circumstances and become friends.
Foriana, Adam & Esme, are dealing with their past, second chances and an unknown future.
They journey to Lake Como in Italy, for Floriana’s Ex’s wedding, a place where Esme starts searching her first love.
Adam has had a breakup and tagged along as a plus one with Floriana, whom he secretly loves but is unsure if she will reciprocate the feelings.
Floriana, is concerned about Seb, her EX, who has fallen into depression in the past.
If you are looking for a relaxed read, do pick it up. It takes you to Lake Como, Italy and London.
Its like a virtual holiday.
June 27, 2022
Perfect book to read on holiday- I loveee Erica James’ writing and how real she makes the characters and stories.
Also fell in love with lake como just from reading this- going from Oxford to Italy was the best setting.
Pretty impressive that I was so invested I almost cried reading it by the pool xoxox
Also fell in love with lake como just from reading this- going from Oxford to Italy was the best setting.
Pretty impressive that I was so invested I almost cried reading it by the pool xoxox
August 2, 2019
Kad ir kaip myliu vasarą, bet romanus, susijusius su vasara, dažniau skaitau šaltuoju metų laiku. Kažkaip tuomet man geriausiai sekasi mintimis nusikelti ten, kur šilta, nuostabus gamtovaizdis, ryškios spalvos ir daug saulės. Tuomet atrodo, kad viskas tik ir kvepia vasara. Tokius romanus aš skaitau norėdama pailsėti nuo kiek kitokios mano mėgstamos literatūros. Taigi, šį kartą įvyko šioks toks lūžis ir mano skaitomų knygų sąraše atsirado Erica James romanas "Vasara prie ežero". Neseniai lietuvių kalba pasirodžius antrajam autorės romanui, aš nusprendžiau pažintį pradėti nuo pirmojo. Tuo labiau, kad tai lyg ir įpareigoja pavadinime esantis žodis vasara ir kad skaityti reikia būtent dabar-vasarai einant į pabaigą. Taigi, nieko nelaukus, kibau į romaną, kurio veiksmas mane nukelia į Oksfordą, kuriame gyvena žavi mergina Floriana, kuri savo gyvenimą leidžia dirbdama gide. Tačiau vieną dieną gyvenimas jai apkarsta, kai nuo savo gyvenimo meilės Sebo gauna laišką, kuriame Floriana yra kviečiama į jo vestuves. Ar išdrįs mergina juose pasirodyti? Trumpam paliekame Florianą ir keliaujame susipažinti su kitu veikėju Adamu-nekilnojamo turto brokeriu, kuris linkęs persidirbti, kai jį paliko mergina. Vis dar bandydamas suklijuoti savo santykius, jis mėtomas ir vėtomas savo gyvenimo verpetuose. Veikėja, kuri labiausiai man patiko, tai Esmi-labai miela ir vieniša senolė, gyvenanti su kate. Ramybės jai neduoda vienas klausimas, kas nutiko vaikinui, kurį įsimylėjo prieš 60 metų. Šie visi trys be galo skirtingi žmonės tiek savo amžiumi, tiek problemomis, tiek požiūriu į gyvenimą susieti vienu įvykiu, nuo kurio ir prasidėjo graži šių žmonių draugystė, kuri nuveda net iki Komo ežero pakrantės Italijoje-žavingos ir romantiškos užuovėjos. Šis romanas man pasirodė toks šiltas, jaukus, spinduliuojantis gėriu ir meile. Nesvarbu, kad paprastas, neįpareigojantis, bet toks mielas širdžiai kaip kokia skani arbata, kurios atsigėrus, užplūsta palaimos jausmas. Kažkaip susigyvau su knygos veikėjais, pergyvenau dėl jų, mylėjau juos, o ypatingai senolę Esmi, kuri būdama senyvo amžiaus, bet tokio šviesaus proto ir žarstanti aukso vertės patarimus. Todėl šį romaną palinkėsiu skaityti ne tik vasarą ar norint atsipalaiduoti, bet ir žiemą, kuomet norisi šilumos savo širdžiai, trupučio meilės, pozityvių minčių ar laiko tik sau, nes: "Gyvenime kiekvienas esame pašaukti atlikti kai ką ypatingo ir, kai suprantame tai visa širdimi, privalome šito imtis, kadangi tuomet užduotis tampa mums ne pareiga, o malonumas". Tad malonaus skaitymo.
August 19, 2021
Žinot, atvirai pasakius, niekada nebuvau tokių paprastesnių meilės istorijų mėgėja. Man norisi įdomesnio konteksto, kažkokių kraupesnių aplinkybių istorijai vystytis... o istorijos, ypač tos, kuriose greitai ir netikėtai įsimylima kelionės metu, kai šimtu procentų žinai, kad teks atsisveikinti, ir, tikėtina, niekada daugiau nepamatysi TO vyro... galvodavau, ech, kokios naivios tos moterys, kad į visa tai veliasi... kol pati nebraukiau ašarų NY oro uoste atsisveikinant su žmogum, su kuriuo praleidau gal kokias 48 valandas... o net ir dabar vis apie jį pagalvoju. Ir tikiu, kad jei ne aplinkybės... ir dar vienas kitas atvejis... bet jie dar neturi atomazgos, tad...
Būtent apie tai ši knyga – apie žmones, kurie susitinka. Netikėtai. Ir iš poros žvilgsnių paaiškėja, kad va, bus kažkas daugiau... ir tik dėl pačios nuoširdžių patirčių tokias istorijas yra įdomu skaityti. Nes žinai, kad taip būna ir gyvenime... o ne tik romanuose...
Tiek Adamas, tiek Floriana neseniai pergyvenę skaudžius išsiskyrimus, netikėtai susitinka naktį, kuomet Florianą partrenkia mašina. Tuo pat metu pro šalį ėjusi senutė Esmi taip pat įsitraukia į visą chaosą ir galiausiai visi trys tampa gerais draugais ir vieni kitais rūpinasi. O aplinkybės susidėlioja taip, kad Esmė, pasakodama savo jaunystės istoriją apie vasarą, praleistą Italijoje, prie Como ežero, galiausiai nutaria priimti svarbų sprendimą, kuris turi įtakos ne tik jos, bet ir Florianos bei Adamo likimams...
Istorija tokia jauki, o veikėjai tokie nuostabūs, neįkyrūs, kad tikras malonumas šią knygą skaityti. Vieni kitiems padeda ties daug skirtingų dalykų. Knygos aprašymai gražūs, mintyse man vis iškyla prisiminimai kaip pačiai teko plaukioti Como ežeru, ir kokia palaima, išties, turėtų būti praleisti ten beveik visą vasarą...
Labai graži, jauki knyga apie paprastus žmones, apie jų džiaugsmus ir vargus; apie keliones ir nuotykius jose... apie netikėtus sprendimus ir daug daug ką kito.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
Būtent apie tai ši knyga – apie žmones, kurie susitinka. Netikėtai. Ir iš poros žvilgsnių paaiškėja, kad va, bus kažkas daugiau... ir tik dėl pačios nuoširdžių patirčių tokias istorijas yra įdomu skaityti. Nes žinai, kad taip būna ir gyvenime... o ne tik romanuose...
Tiek Adamas, tiek Floriana neseniai pergyvenę skaudžius išsiskyrimus, netikėtai susitinka naktį, kuomet Florianą partrenkia mašina. Tuo pat metu pro šalį ėjusi senutė Esmi taip pat įsitraukia į visą chaosą ir galiausiai visi trys tampa gerais draugais ir vieni kitais rūpinasi. O aplinkybės susidėlioja taip, kad Esmė, pasakodama savo jaunystės istoriją apie vasarą, praleistą Italijoje, prie Como ežero, galiausiai nutaria priimti svarbų sprendimą, kuris turi įtakos ne tik jos, bet ir Florianos bei Adamo likimams...
Istorija tokia jauki, o veikėjai tokie nuostabūs, neįkyrūs, kad tikras malonumas šią knygą skaityti. Vieni kitiems padeda ties daug skirtingų dalykų. Knygos aprašymai gražūs, mintyse man vis iškyla prisiminimai kaip pačiai teko plaukioti Como ežeru, ir kokia palaima, išties, turėtų būti praleisti ten beveik visą vasarą...
Labai graži, jauki knyga apie paprastus žmones, apie jų džiaugsmus ir vargus; apie keliones ir nuotykius jose... apie netikėtus sprendimus ir daug daug ką kito.
Susitikime instagrame:
www.instagram.com/gretabrigita.lt
Visas apžvalgas rasite čia:
www.gretabrigita.lt
Leidyklos dovana.
March 4, 2015
I have been enjoying Erica James writing since 1996, so definitely consider myself a long time fan of her particular brand of escapism. Contemporary romantic fiction with characters that one can often identify with people you come across in real life. This time set in Oxford and Lake Como both places I was instantly transported to with the authors realistic descriptions.
The three protagonists of the novel meet in dramatic circumstances right at the opening of the story. A group of individuals thrown together by fate Floriana, Esme and Adam find themselves surprisingly becoming firm friends. Florianna is involved in an accident and it was Esme and Adam that had rushed to her aid.
As the relationships develop between this unlikely group the life stories of the three of them unfolds. The three had kept in touch after the accident and found despite the fact that they were all so different that there was a strong connection concerning relationships and broken hearts. It seems as if they are all going to be of help to each other with regards putting their pasts to rest. Woven together seamlessly the characters stories made for a very engrossing read.
In conclusion then if you are looking for contemporary fiction that is pure escapism then Erica James will satisfy your requirements. According to the Guardian Summer at the Lake was one of the 100 best-selling books in 2014.
http://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogspo...
The three protagonists of the novel meet in dramatic circumstances right at the opening of the story. A group of individuals thrown together by fate Floriana, Esme and Adam find themselves surprisingly becoming firm friends. Florianna is involved in an accident and it was Esme and Adam that had rushed to her aid.
As the relationships develop between this unlikely group the life stories of the three of them unfolds. The three had kept in touch after the accident and found despite the fact that they were all so different that there was a strong connection concerning relationships and broken hearts. It seems as if they are all going to be of help to each other with regards putting their pasts to rest. Woven together seamlessly the characters stories made for a very engrossing read.
In conclusion then if you are looking for contemporary fiction that is pure escapism then Erica James will satisfy your requirements. According to the Guardian Summer at the Lake was one of the 100 best-selling books in 2014.
http://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogspo...
March 10, 2014
A lovely read set in a beautiful place that I'd love to visit now. It follows three strangers as they become close friends due to one of the characters having an accident at the start. They share stories of past loves and the elderley lady is keen that her two younger friends find love together!
November 6, 2016
Another Erica James book that grew on me more as the book progressed. Good linkages between events in the present as well as events in the past. Good relationships developed as a result of Floriana being knocked down by a car, which led to three strangers meeting.
December 21, 2021
Just as in the previous Erica James, I was surprised by which relationship I preferred in Summer at the Lake. Being interested in the first half of the twentieth century I thought I would enjoy the 1950 narrative more – when Esme (the elderly lady in the main narrative storyline) is very young and naïve. I enjoyed the descriptions of Lake Como but felt something of the time period was lacking. Some feeling that it was actually 1950.
The best part of the present day narrative is not the romance or possible romance between Floriana and Adam but for me, it was the relationship between the three of them – Esme, Floriana and Adam, after Floriana’s accident. It was a pity there wasn't more passion between Adam and Floriana, a la The Duke and I. It would have heated things up. 3 and a half stars.
The best part of the present day narrative is not the romance or possible romance between Floriana and Adam but for me, it was the relationship between the three of them – Esme, Floriana and Adam, after Floriana’s accident. It was a pity there wasn't more passion between Adam and Floriana, a la The Duke and I. It would have heated things up. 3 and a half stars.
April 26, 2025
I give it 3.5
A nice story that builds joining 3 peoples lives together . Not at all what I’d usually pick as sweet romance isn’t usually my bag but it made for a nice change .
It was a free audio for whilst I worked but would look at others of this author now :)
A nice story that builds joining 3 peoples lives together . Not at all what I’d usually pick as sweet romance isn’t usually my bag but it made for a nice change .
It was a free audio for whilst I worked but would look at others of this author now :)
June 19, 2017
This Was A Very Light-Hearted Read But With A Surprising Back Story Which Is Just What I Like To Get Me Gripped Onto A Book. Very Nice Characters. I Thought The Way They Were Brought Together Was Clever And That It Was A Moment They Shared And Bonded Over. At Times, This Novel Made Me Sad From Esme's Point Of View, For Many Different Reasons But This Was All Resolved In The End
March 25, 2014
I've enjoyed Erica James' books for many years now and, like most readers, I have my favourites. Hidden Talents was one, a wonderful book following the stories of the characters who come together at a creative writers' group. Precious Time was another, Clara and Ned's journey to the Peak District in a camper van where their lives become entangled with a range of wonderful characters. But this new one is equally wonderful - I've never been to the Italian Lakes (it's on my bucket list) but I feel like I have after immersing myself in this lovely book, and, having set it aside with a satisfied sigh, I really missed the characters I'd grown to care about so much. This is a quite perfect book for anyone who loves to escape into the pages of the book they're reading - it transports you wonderfully, first to Oxford, then to the shores of Lake Como, and entangles you wonderfully in the lives of the characters in their past and present.
I was immediately engaged by Floriana, working as a rather quirky tour guide in Oxford, her childhood friend Seb about to be married to another, their friendship badly broken. Enter the two other main characters. Esme is now an old lady, living alone with her cat, remembering her teenage travels to Lake Como with her father and the pain of first love. Adam is a property developer, nursing his own broken heart, who finds unexpected friendship with Floriana and Esme. The story moves to Lake Como - so that Floriana can attend Seb's wedding, and Esme relive her youth - and the story unfolds quite enchantingly.
This is a tale that moves quite seamlessly between past and present - we ache with the pain of Esme's first love as we watch the modern story play itself out. Lake Como becomes a fourth main character, enticingly and beautifully drawn, and it really is the perfect backdrop for the lovely story which sweeps you up as you read until you reluctantly return to the real world at the end. Don't miss this one - Erica James really does get better and better.
My thanks to netgalley and publishers Orion for my advance reading e-copy. Summer at the Lake was published in hardcover and Kindle editions on 27 February 2014, and the paperback will follow on 5 June.
I was immediately engaged by Floriana, working as a rather quirky tour guide in Oxford, her childhood friend Seb about to be married to another, their friendship badly broken. Enter the two other main characters. Esme is now an old lady, living alone with her cat, remembering her teenage travels to Lake Como with her father and the pain of first love. Adam is a property developer, nursing his own broken heart, who finds unexpected friendship with Floriana and Esme. The story moves to Lake Como - so that Floriana can attend Seb's wedding, and Esme relive her youth - and the story unfolds quite enchantingly.
This is a tale that moves quite seamlessly between past and present - we ache with the pain of Esme's first love as we watch the modern story play itself out. Lake Como becomes a fourth main character, enticingly and beautifully drawn, and it really is the perfect backdrop for the lovely story which sweeps you up as you read until you reluctantly return to the real world at the end. Don't miss this one - Erica James really does get better and better.
My thanks to netgalley and publishers Orion for my advance reading e-copy. Summer at the Lake was published in hardcover and Kindle editions on 27 February 2014, and the paperback will follow on 5 June.
July 17, 2014
I’ve read all of Erica’s books over the years (with the exception of The Hidden Cottage, which I have waiting patiently on my Kindle) and have always enjoyed them – and this current book (her 18th!) was no exception.
The story is set partly in Oxford and also the beautiful Italian Lakes. I’ve spent a couple of lovely holidays by Lake Como and have stayed at the very pretty lakeside town of Bellagio, also mentioned in the book so in some ways this was a trip down memory lane for me.
When Oxford tour guide Floriana is knocked down by a car, she can have no idea that such a traumatic event would lead to her finding two new friends. Property developer Adam, nursing a newly broken heart and elderly spinster Esme go to her aid, and despite all three being very different people from diverse backgrounds, they find a connection in each other and, following Floriana’s recovery, vow to keep in touch. I loved all three main characters, they each had something different to bring to the story – the quirkiness of Floriana, Adam, the serious natured problem solver and the wise and perceptive Esme. I became so completely engrossed in their lives that I couldn’t put the book down.
The part of the story that particularly stood out for me was Esme’s. She never married and lived alone with her cat Euridice however back in the 1950’s when she was a young woman, she and her father did their own version of ‘the Grand Tour’ and spent some time at the idyllic sounding Hotel Margherita at Lake Como. This trip was to have life changing consequences for Esme and when, many decades later, she returns to Lake Como accompanied by Floriana and Adam, it is a chance for her to lay to rest old ghosts. However it is not only Esme who has to come to terms with the past – Floriana also faces the heartache of seeing her former love Seb marry someone else.
Each character’s story is superbly woven together to create a really lovely read. With such excellent descriptions of the Italian scenery and well developed and engaging characters, there was so much to enjoy that I was quite sad to come to the end.
The story is set partly in Oxford and also the beautiful Italian Lakes. I’ve spent a couple of lovely holidays by Lake Como and have stayed at the very pretty lakeside town of Bellagio, also mentioned in the book so in some ways this was a trip down memory lane for me.
When Oxford tour guide Floriana is knocked down by a car, she can have no idea that such a traumatic event would lead to her finding two new friends. Property developer Adam, nursing a newly broken heart and elderly spinster Esme go to her aid, and despite all three being very different people from diverse backgrounds, they find a connection in each other and, following Floriana’s recovery, vow to keep in touch. I loved all three main characters, they each had something different to bring to the story – the quirkiness of Floriana, Adam, the serious natured problem solver and the wise and perceptive Esme. I became so completely engrossed in their lives that I couldn’t put the book down.
The part of the story that particularly stood out for me was Esme’s. She never married and lived alone with her cat Euridice however back in the 1950’s when she was a young woman, she and her father did their own version of ‘the Grand Tour’ and spent some time at the idyllic sounding Hotel Margherita at Lake Como. This trip was to have life changing consequences for Esme and when, many decades later, she returns to Lake Como accompanied by Floriana and Adam, it is a chance for her to lay to rest old ghosts. However it is not only Esme who has to come to terms with the past – Floriana also faces the heartache of seeing her former love Seb marry someone else.
Each character’s story is superbly woven together to create a really lovely read. With such excellent descriptions of the Italian scenery and well developed and engaging characters, there was so much to enjoy that I was quite sad to come to the end.
July 17, 2014
Novel set Lake Como and in Oxford (a proper #holidayread)
An old romance blended with a modern love affair, moving from the glittering spires of Oxford to the balmy shores of Lake Como. Both locations are beautifully captured. Imagine Oxford: “…its velvet green lawns and ivy-clad walls, its architecture, its ethos, its tradition and its sense of place in time and history.” And find out too where Tolkien and C S Lewis used to hang out.
Floriana (what a wonderful name) is living in Oxford. She is impecunious, and cobbles together her bohemian life by working as a tour guide. Seb, her long term friend has fled into the arms of wealthy Imogen, when Floriana declared her undying love to him. Since his abrupt departure, Floriana’s heart has never really repaired. Out of the blue, she receives an invitation to attend his marriage to Imogen, and as she struggles with the shock of this missive, she is literally knocked over by a passing motorist. Two people come to her aid and pursue her into the hospital to establish that she is ok. Property developer Adam accompanies elderly Esme to Floriana’s bedside and from that point a delightful friendship builds between the three of them and sets the tone for the novel. Adam and Esme are determined to support Floriana’s attendance at the wedding…
So it is off to beautiful Lake Como, where the wedding is due to take place and the trio settles into a stunning villa, where they while away a few days in the build up to the big day. Esme has already described her trip to the Lake as a young woman in the 1950s, both to her companions and to the reader, and it is a delightful juxtaposition of Italy both past and the present. Floriana braces herself for her encounter with Seb, as his big day approaches and she feels less and less positive about attending.
Add some trips across the Lake and a quick sojourn in Venice and you have all the ingredients for a top #holidayread. Enjoy!
An old romance blended with a modern love affair, moving from the glittering spires of Oxford to the balmy shores of Lake Como. Both locations are beautifully captured. Imagine Oxford: “…its velvet green lawns and ivy-clad walls, its architecture, its ethos, its tradition and its sense of place in time and history.” And find out too where Tolkien and C S Lewis used to hang out.
Floriana (what a wonderful name) is living in Oxford. She is impecunious, and cobbles together her bohemian life by working as a tour guide. Seb, her long term friend has fled into the arms of wealthy Imogen, when Floriana declared her undying love to him. Since his abrupt departure, Floriana’s heart has never really repaired. Out of the blue, she receives an invitation to attend his marriage to Imogen, and as she struggles with the shock of this missive, she is literally knocked over by a passing motorist. Two people come to her aid and pursue her into the hospital to establish that she is ok. Property developer Adam accompanies elderly Esme to Floriana’s bedside and from that point a delightful friendship builds between the three of them and sets the tone for the novel. Adam and Esme are determined to support Floriana’s attendance at the wedding…
So it is off to beautiful Lake Como, where the wedding is due to take place and the trio settles into a stunning villa, where they while away a few days in the build up to the big day. Esme has already described her trip to the Lake as a young woman in the 1950s, both to her companions and to the reader, and it is a delightful juxtaposition of Italy both past and the present. Floriana braces herself for her encounter with Seb, as his big day approaches and she feels less and less positive about attending.
Add some trips across the Lake and a quick sojourn in Venice and you have all the ingredients for a top #holidayread. Enjoy!
February 10, 2014
If you need a cure for the winter blues then this is the book for you!
I'll be honest I had never read a book by Erica James before. But I do judge a book by its cover and when Orion Publishing kindly sent this to me to review I was so excited! The cover is just so beautiful. I couldn't wait to get started.
The story has 3 main characters. Firstly Floriana, who was lost in thoughts didn't see a car heading towards her. Esme, an elderly lady with her own past to deal with and Adam, a property developer, were luckily there to help. In this strange twist of fate a strong friendship was created. The main storyline is about Floriana battling against her love from her past for Seb, after receiving an invitation to his wedding in Lake Como.
I don't want to give too much away so I will not go in to the detail of the plot. But the theme of love in the past and love in the future makes this book heart warming to read. The characters are so well written. I instantly warmed to Floriana and everyone needs an Esme in their life!
The descriptions of Lake Como made me want to jump on a plane and go! Funnily enough, as I was finishing the book my husband was watching Top Gear and in the episode they were driving around Lake Como! Erica got the beautiful scenery spot on, no wonder I felt like I was at the lake myself throughout the book.
As the weather is wet and rubbish outside in the UK at the moment, go get this book and relax with a gentle story in the sun!
I would recommend this book. Congratulations Erica, I loved it!
Www.reviewedbyfran.wordpress.com
I'll be honest I had never read a book by Erica James before. But I do judge a book by its cover and when Orion Publishing kindly sent this to me to review I was so excited! The cover is just so beautiful. I couldn't wait to get started.
The story has 3 main characters. Firstly Floriana, who was lost in thoughts didn't see a car heading towards her. Esme, an elderly lady with her own past to deal with and Adam, a property developer, were luckily there to help. In this strange twist of fate a strong friendship was created. The main storyline is about Floriana battling against her love from her past for Seb, after receiving an invitation to his wedding in Lake Como.
I don't want to give too much away so I will not go in to the detail of the plot. But the theme of love in the past and love in the future makes this book heart warming to read. The characters are so well written. I instantly warmed to Floriana and everyone needs an Esme in their life!
The descriptions of Lake Como made me want to jump on a plane and go! Funnily enough, as I was finishing the book my husband was watching Top Gear and in the episode they were driving around Lake Como! Erica got the beautiful scenery spot on, no wonder I felt like I was at the lake myself throughout the book.
As the weather is wet and rubbish outside in the UK at the moment, go get this book and relax with a gentle story in the sun!
I would recommend this book. Congratulations Erica, I loved it!
Www.reviewedbyfran.wordpress.com
August 9, 2023
When I started this book, I couldn't focus on the story at all. I spent around 3 weeks wasting time with it, reading only the first few pages. Then my dog died and I didn't want to read it because it reminded me of him. But I'm so glad I did.
This book is great! The storyline is fantastic and unpredictable, really some of the stuff that happened, I was truly surprised, although there were also moments in which I assumed what would happen. Esme's journey to her past was the best part of the book, in my opinion. I really enjoyed reading what had happened to her in Lake Como. And the rest of the story was just superb.
I look forward to reading more books by Erica James, she is a brilliant writer! 5/5.
This book is great! The storyline is fantastic and unpredictable, really some of the stuff that happened, I was truly surprised, although there were also moments in which I assumed what would happen. Esme's journey to her past was the best part of the book, in my opinion. I really enjoyed reading what had happened to her in Lake Como. And the rest of the story was just superb.
I look forward to reading more books by Erica James, she is a brilliant writer! 5/5.
April 30, 2014
First book of Erica James I have read, and I will now read more. It all begins with Floriana being knocked down, as she is distracted by the wedding invitation received from her friend Seb. Esme and Adam come to help her, and all their lives change in ways that wouldn't have happened if they hadn't met. The three new friends live in Oxford, and discuss past loves. Esme now an elderly lady, tells of her first love when she was 18 years old, and on holiday wth her father in Italy. Beautifully written, and the descriptions of Como Lake make you feel you are there with them.
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