"Summer's List" by Anita Higman

I've only read one other Anita Higman novel, but it was one of my favorites from 2013. When the opportunity to review her latest release came my way, I jumped all over it! Higman is definitely a gifted author, with a unique voice that stands out in the Christian marketplace.

Our heroine of this story, Summer Snow, has her life turned upside down in the opening pages. She breaks off an engagement to a man she realizes is not right for her, and finds out that her beloved grandmother, her only living relative, is dying of heart failure. Granny has two deathbed wishes that she asks Summer to fulfill: that Summer would complete the list of adventures her grandmother wants her to have, and that she would reconnect with her childhood friend Martin and convince him to do the list with her. The list includes things like 'build a tree house' and 'go on a hot air balloon ride.' Summer hasn't seen Martin in 19 years, but he still holds a special place in her heart.

Meanwhile Martin has never forgotten the girl who stole his heart before he lost touch with her. Now grown into a quiet, somewhat eccentric man with a dysfunctional family background, Martin is thrilled when Summer looks him up and happily agrees to accompany her to fulfill her grandmother's list.

From the very beginning the writing style reminded me of early twentieth century authors Gene Stratton-Porter and Lloyd C. Douglas. The characters spoke in mini monologues and the motivations were uncomplicated and straightforward. The longer the story went on the more it also hearkened to the moralistic works of Louisa May Alcott, and while none of these are bad associations by any means, it was a little frustrating that every character easily fell into the category of good person or bad person, and the plot lacked complexity. It was disappointing in that sense, although I did enjoy the throwback feel because of my love of classic literature.

If you enjoy the style of old school storytellers, or are looking for a book that would be safe in the hands of young readers, this might be one for you to check out.



I received my copy of the book from LitFuse Publicity in exchange for this honest review. All opinions are my own.