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Haunted Summer
We lighted candles in the midnight dark. Lord Byron led us single file down the dank stone stairs into the deserted dungeon of the Castle of Chillon. Like some crawling serpent with flaming eyes, our five shadowy figures shuffled along the cold stones. "Sit down," Byron commanded. "Everyone touch hands." I was frightened and I knew why. This dungeon was to represent the secret cell within ourselves where all our private haunting took place.
198 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1972
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
September 27, 2018
is this the worst book i have read about byron? no, far from it. it is the third-worst book i have read about byron.
and, honestly, the book itself is not terrible. she captures the gothic sensibility well; the descriptions and the ambiguity and the horror - oh - the horror!!! and the melodrama are all there, and the *yawn* erotic and the opium and the lines like:
-this dungeon was to represent the secret cell within ourselves where all our private haunting took place
-there would be no ghost stories this night, but in my heart i knew our own ghosts were already being raised.
-"madness, mary, is all about us. it is the very air we breathe. should we stop breathing for fear of its exhilaration?"
i mean, for the gothic horror genre, there's gonna be some of that, and while it is incredibly affected and full of wide-eyed deliveries of lines of great dramatic import, you can't fault someone for operating within genre-conventions, even when those conventions are ludicrous.
"could you be so blind as to link hands with the devil??"
but why drag byron into it?? i know how tempting it is - that summer, the freedom of expatriatism, mixed genders, late nights, wine and animals and the birth of some of the most enduring works of literature... but let's not get carried away like so many people have:
a casual approach to marriage does not necessarily lead to orgies. just because there is a lady present, doesn't mean byron's gonna fuck her.two male poets do not always end up in bed together.and writing about monsters does not bring them to life.
and this book isn't guilty of all of the above, but they are all part of the mythology, and it's all fine and fun, but is the same situation that turns locker-room gossip into gospel. and does it matter when the participants are long-dead? to me, yes, because the myth is easy and lurid and the facts are more elusive but so so much more interesting.trust a girl.
this book is overwritten and dull, and the author contributed to the writing of the film adaptation which, while way better than gothic, is still bland and foppish and just... wrong.
"it is not death i fear - but reality...whatever is beginning to occur among us has its roots in evil. i am possessed with that thought."
"evil? what is evil, mary?"
"sin, then! sin!" my voice rose and i paused before him. his face never lost its composure, or his voice its calm.
"what sin can there possibly be in searching for truth? there cannot be, mary, any more than there could be sin in love."
bleargh. sorry, but bleargh.
this book is as useful as any other of the romantic/gothic takes on the byronic legacy, but it isn't particularly well-written, and doesn't really bring the characters to life.there is no need to track it down...
come to my blog!
and, honestly, the book itself is not terrible. she captures the gothic sensibility well; the descriptions and the ambiguity and the horror - oh - the horror!!! and the melodrama are all there, and the *yawn* erotic and the opium and the lines like:
-this dungeon was to represent the secret cell within ourselves where all our private haunting took place
-there would be no ghost stories this night, but in my heart i knew our own ghosts were already being raised.
-"madness, mary, is all about us. it is the very air we breathe. should we stop breathing for fear of its exhilaration?"
i mean, for the gothic horror genre, there's gonna be some of that, and while it is incredibly affected and full of wide-eyed deliveries of lines of great dramatic import, you can't fault someone for operating within genre-conventions, even when those conventions are ludicrous.
"could you be so blind as to link hands with the devil??"
but why drag byron into it?? i know how tempting it is - that summer, the freedom of expatriatism, mixed genders, late nights, wine and animals and the birth of some of the most enduring works of literature... but let's not get carried away like so many people have:
a casual approach to marriage does not necessarily lead to orgies. just because there is a lady present, doesn't mean byron's gonna fuck her.two male poets do not always end up in bed together.and writing about monsters does not bring them to life.
and this book isn't guilty of all of the above, but they are all part of the mythology, and it's all fine and fun, but is the same situation that turns locker-room gossip into gospel. and does it matter when the participants are long-dead? to me, yes, because the myth is easy and lurid and the facts are more elusive but so so much more interesting.trust a girl.
this book is overwritten and dull, and the author contributed to the writing of the film adaptation which, while way better than gothic, is still bland and foppish and just... wrong.
"it is not death i fear - but reality...whatever is beginning to occur among us has its roots in evil. i am possessed with that thought."
"evil? what is evil, mary?"
"sin, then! sin!" my voice rose and i paused before him. his face never lost its composure, or his voice its calm.
"what sin can there possibly be in searching for truth? there cannot be, mary, any more than there could be sin in love."
bleargh. sorry, but bleargh.
this book is as useful as any other of the romantic/gothic takes on the byronic legacy, but it isn't particularly well-written, and doesn't really bring the characters to life.there is no need to track it down...
come to my blog!
March 17, 2018
This novel gives a partially historical view about the creation of Mary Shelley's Frankenstein; in fact, it details a most explicit, albeit romantic summer highlighting the use of drugs and promiscuity. Lord Byron, his unforgettable doctor John William Polidori, Bysshe Shelley, and Mary's sister spend time in caves and cemeteries discussing intense, frightening topics.
It's also very odd that Mary survived into her late twilight years, while the others died young and in most peculiar ways.
For me, it was a great read.
It's also very odd that Mary survived into her late twilight years, while the others died young and in most peculiar ways.
For me, it was a great read.
August 30, 2019
I had a difficult time initially getting into the book. I've read other stories about Lord Byron and his group of author friends, along with Doctor Dolidori, and this one had more focus on Mary Shelley and the creation of Frankenstein. However something about this book just didn't click for me. It was creepy and Gothic but I honestly found myself skipping through parts that just didn't interest me.
I would like to thank the author/publisher/Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book and exchange for a fair and honest review.
I would like to thank the author/publisher/Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book and exchange for a fair and honest review.
July 24, 2016
I found this book tedious in the beginning, slightly better in the middle and then tedious again toward the end. The Gothic imagery is right, the feeling of chill and bleakness appropriate, but the language made it nearly impossible to get into the story or feel much of anything for the characters.
This is not the first book that I have read based on this situation, and I can at least say that the depiction of Byron in this book was better than some of them that I've read, but still, over the course of the book, there were many places where I felt it dragged and would have liked to have a fast forward button to skip through those.
It wasn't a terrible book, and I am sure that many will love it, I, however, was not one of them.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
This is not the first book that I have read based on this situation, and I can at least say that the depiction of Byron in this book was better than some of them that I've read, but still, over the course of the book, there were many places where I felt it dragged and would have liked to have a fast forward button to skip through those.
It wasn't a terrible book, and I am sure that many will love it, I, however, was not one of them.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
September 12, 2015
Having never gotten over my school girl crush on Byron and my fascination with Mary Shelley, author of one of the greatest and enduring novels of all time I was eager to read about all of them once again. . This is a fictional account based on the summer the Shelleys spent with Byron and she created Frankenstein. I Never tire of this story or the cast of characters . . This book is written in true gothic style and brings to life the events that took place. .An exciting engaging read .
March 3, 2017
In the interest of full disclosure: I am not a fan of historical fiction, so this will unavoidably be a biased review. I'd rather read complete fiction or complete non-fiction, but the middle ground confuses my memory in the long run.
I did not like this book when I read it as a teen. Even back then I found Mary and Shelley's behaviour unacceptable and shockingly selfish. So I do not think it would be fair for anyone to defend them as being young and stupid and did not know any better. As for forward-thinking and modern... well, that is an opinion... In our modern times "my rights" does seem to be the slogan of the day.
Pros:
1. Should interest fans of Mary Shelley and the poet, Shelley. Based on true events.
2. Apparently shows the birth of Frankenstein.
3. Gothic locale.
4. There is a small spot of action in there somewhere.
Cons:
1. The characters are to my mind completely stupid and selfish. I did not like any of them, except perhaps Ianthe.
2. Not much happens.
3. A lot of talking.
4. No real point to the story, other than self-discovery perhaps?
5. Not to be injurious to authors of historical fiction (since I'm sure there is a place for the genre), but in this instance at least, it felt as though this book had no plot of its own to stand on; and so it managed to enter circulation merely on the merit that it was about famous people. That's a very harsh statement, I am sorry, and if I missed some crucial underlying factor, feel free to point it out to me.
6. If it was me, I would have left Lord Byron's presence long ago, as indeed I wish I had done with this book (left its presence, that is.)
Historical fiction works for me, not at all.
I did not like this book when I read it as a teen. Even back then I found Mary and Shelley's behaviour unacceptable and shockingly selfish. So I do not think it would be fair for anyone to defend them as being young and stupid and did not know any better. As for forward-thinking and modern... well, that is an opinion... In our modern times "my rights" does seem to be the slogan of the day.
Pros:
1. Should interest fans of Mary Shelley and the poet, Shelley. Based on true events.
2. Apparently shows the birth of Frankenstein.
3. Gothic locale.
4. There is a small spot of action in there somewhere.
Cons:
1. The characters are to my mind completely stupid and selfish. I did not like any of them, except perhaps Ianthe.
2. Not much happens.
3. A lot of talking.
4. No real point to the story, other than self-discovery perhaps?
5. Not to be injurious to authors of historical fiction (since I'm sure there is a place for the genre), but in this instance at least, it felt as though this book had no plot of its own to stand on; and so it managed to enter circulation merely on the merit that it was about famous people. That's a very harsh statement, I am sorry, and if I missed some crucial underlying factor, feel free to point it out to me.
6. If it was me, I would have left Lord Byron's presence long ago, as indeed I wish I had done with this book (left its presence, that is.)
Historical fiction works for me, not at all.
September 6, 2023
One of the very best historical fictions that I have ever read. I am obsessed with the "haunted summer of 1816", and this beautifully atmospheric tale brought me right into that world from the first page onwards. Anne Edwards writes beautifully, bringing each of these characters to life in such a way that you don't want the book to come to an end. It is a rather obscure novel which was adapted for the screen in 1988. The film is wonderful, but this novel is much better. I can't wait to read it again. Please check it out if you have not.
February 7, 2021
I read this book back in 1974 and at the time I loved it. If you like the modern day style of writing you will probably not be enthralled with it. For me being a writer since I was eight with a love of gothic and Dickensian style poetry and stories, teamed with an artists eye and a very vivid imagination, I was there watching it all happen.
July 2, 2016
I had a very difficult time getting into this book. I also felt that the more complex vocabulary and language would likely be almost impossible for the average person to be able to understand. This book was classified as "mystery, thriller" and I didn't find that appropriate. It seemed more of a drama to me. This book leaned heavily towards the occult and this would likely be off putting to many as it was to me. As I read further into the book, it became more interesting to me. It was highly unusual though and is based on the true story of the author of Frankenstein. The story tells of the inspiration for her creation of the plot for Frankenstein, a highly successful and popular story. Mary and Shelley considered themselves to be "married" but he, in fact, was already married and thus became a bygamist. Claire was mistreated and treated with disgust by Lord Byron, the father of her unborn child. He planned to take the child to raise and would allow Claire visits with their child in disguise as an aunt of the child. I found this to honestly be very weird. I didn't understand how Claire could so willingly give up constant contact with her child. I could never do this and would not even consider the possibility. Lord Byron and his attendant, Dr. Polidori, use opium and encourage Mary, Shelley, and Claire to do the same. They do agree after some time of refusal. They tell ghost stories in the dark, damp cellar of the castle Lord Byron rents for the summer in Switzerland. This adds to the gothic, frightening aspect of the ghost stories. Shelley and Lord Byron forge a strong friendship, in great part due to the fact that both are poets. Their poems are featured through the body of the book. Again, I think the average reader would not comprehend the language and symbolism of these poems.
I rated this book 4-stars and would recommend it to a limited audience of highly educated readers and those with an appreciation for Frankenstein.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
I rated this book 4-stars and would recommend it to a limited audience of highly educated readers and those with an appreciation for Frankenstein.
I received this book from netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 9, 2016
Princess Fuzzypants here:
Every Halloween, we watch The Bride of Frankenstein which begins with Mary Shelley, Shelley and Lord Byron talking about her novel Frankenstein. It is a good movie and a great story but I never realized just how close it was to the truth.
This book, written in the first person, tells the story of how that book came about. It is the story of five people, three of whom are those mentioned above. It is based on research but as with all fictional histories, how much is fact and how much is fiction is up to the reader to decide.
It tells the story of these three who defied social conventions of the time in very blatant and public ways and bore Society's scorn and contempt. They could not be denied. They were far too talented with the written word to be ignored. Each has left his or her mark through the ages. It was not without great cost.
It's a fascinating story of larger than life people and it sweeps the reader along as Mary fights her ghosts and gives birth to a monster.
If you are a fan of horror or just like historical novels, this could be a good choice. It is not a light read but it is an entertaining one.
I give it five purrs and two paws up.
Every Halloween, we watch The Bride of Frankenstein which begins with Mary Shelley, Shelley and Lord Byron talking about her novel Frankenstein. It is a good movie and a great story but I never realized just how close it was to the truth.
This book, written in the first person, tells the story of how that book came about. It is the story of five people, three of whom are those mentioned above. It is based on research but as with all fictional histories, how much is fact and how much is fiction is up to the reader to decide.
It tells the story of these three who defied social conventions of the time in very blatant and public ways and bore Society's scorn and contempt. They could not be denied. They were far too talented with the written word to be ignored. Each has left his or her mark through the ages. It was not without great cost.
It's a fascinating story of larger than life people and it sweeps the reader along as Mary fights her ghosts and gives birth to a monster.
If you are a fan of horror or just like historical novels, this could be a good choice. It is not a light read but it is an entertaining one.
I give it five purrs and two paws up.
September 2, 2015
I love the story and works of the main characters in this novel and it is one of my favourite eras of English Literature. However I found it very difficult to connect with Haunted Summer. Written in the style of a Victorian melodrama it is full of the Gothic imagery and descriptions that you would expect.
Exiled from England because of bad behaviour Shelley and his young mistress Mary find themselves in exile in Switzerland. They are accompanied by her younger step sister who has found herself pregnant by the infamous Lord Byron.
It is difficult to feel anything for any of the main characters and Polidori is practically a pantomime baddie. Unfortunately I found myself laughing out loud at some of the descriptions and I don't really think that was quite the effect that Anne Edwards was going for.
If you are looking for a book to put flesh on the bones of some of our best and most infamous writers then I'm afraid that this really isn't it.
Supplied by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
Exiled from England because of bad behaviour Shelley and his young mistress Mary find themselves in exile in Switzerland. They are accompanied by her younger step sister who has found herself pregnant by the infamous Lord Byron.
It is difficult to feel anything for any of the main characters and Polidori is practically a pantomime baddie. Unfortunately I found myself laughing out loud at some of the descriptions and I don't really think that was quite the effect that Anne Edwards was going for.
If you are looking for a book to put flesh on the bones of some of our best and most infamous writers then I'm afraid that this really isn't it.
Supplied by Net Galley in exchange for an honest review
June 28, 2016
t is the first time I'm reading anything about Mary Shelley. Was consumed by reading the book. I am not into poetry, but I found it very interesting. Now I can see where the idea for the book Frankestein came from for Mary. Now I may just look into some of her other books. I received this book from net galley for an honest review.
August 16, 2015
A cold haunted summer, gothic style. Mary Shelley, her new husband, her pregnant half sister, and Lord Byron spend an odd and eerily passionate season encapsulated away from everyone else, writing, exploring, and fighting their own emotional demons.
August 20, 2015
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I have to say that I'm not sure how I felt about this book. The Gothic feel of it was great. That said, I'm not sure how I felt about the story itself. While it was interesting it did drag at times. Over all a good book.
August 20, 2015
Loved this when I read it as a kid. Then, I didn't know Mary Shelley, Lord Byron, and Percy Bysshe were real people. Back on my TBR list. I want to reread now after Frankenstein. Bought this used to read when we went to Switzerland, but was too busy being a tourist to read it then.
November 10, 2011
Anne Edwards captured the gothic narrative beautifully in my opinion.
She wrote with passion and warmth about these most amazing young people.
I felt i was there. I loved it.
She wrote with passion and warmth about these most amazing young people.
I felt i was there. I loved it.
September 28, 2016
Not one of my favorites on Shelley and Byron.
Read
November 20, 2014Read forever ago, periodically want to read it again. I'm putting it here so I won't ever forget its name again!!
October 1, 2015
This book surprised me. I read the introduction and found myself bored to tears, but the body of the novel was excellent.
Want to read
June 20, 2016* e-Arc provided by Netgalley *
November 1, 2016
Amazing book. I started it from the beginning just a day ago. I will have to re-read Frankenstein now.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews