A review by wildwolverine
Summer by Edith Wharton
3.0
This book is often compared to its more famous cousin, Ethan Frome because of the recurring themes of isolation, rural villages, loss of individuality, and unfulfilled romance. Even though I tried to consider this book on its own merits, I couldn't help but also compare it to Ethan Frome, and I have to say, I think I know why the latter is more famous.
Both stories have stayed with me after I finished reading them, but EF was so much more haunting and tragic. Summer was an emotional roller coaster, and I'm not sure how I'm supposed to feel at its conclusion. The ending is both sweet and defeatist, and I think that's the point. The message of the story is put very succinctly by Charity's guardian Mr. Royall in that life only defeats you if you let it. So, while this book didn't end on a bang, it makes me think, and that's why I like it.
If you want an unconventional romance and great growth in characters, and you don't mind thinking, I highly recommend this read!
Both stories have stayed with me after I finished reading them, but EF was so much more haunting and tragic. Summer was an emotional roller coaster, and I'm not sure how I'm supposed to feel at its conclusion. The ending is both sweet and defeatist, and I think that's the point. The message of the story is put very succinctly by Charity's guardian Mr. Royall in that life only defeats you if you let it. So, while this book didn't end on a bang, it makes me think, and that's why I like it.
If you want an unconventional romance and great growth in characters, and you don't mind thinking, I highly recommend this read!