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3.72 AVERAGE
3.72 AVERAGE
Not at all like Major Pettigrew, this novel stands on its own merits. The story of a small English town before World War I, full of eccentric characters, all with their own stories. As the story progressed, I couldn't help but hope that Hugh and Beatrice would find their way to each other. The changes in English society and the tragedy of war are the underpinnings of the story.
This took me a long time to finish. I could never really get into the audiobook. Not sure if reading it on the page would have been a different experience. The characters were likable enough, but I never got into the events surrounding them. Not sure why.
This reminded me a bit of Pride and Prejudice. I enjoyed the characters, the intrigue and the wit.
This took me a ridiculously long time to read (I blame it's strangely large size making it difficult to read in bed), but I really liked it. I would have liked more development with the characters at the end after spending over 400 pages leading us to that point, but it was still a good book.
I went absolutely bananas for [a:Helen Simonson|2995577|Helen Simonson|https://d.gr-assets.com/authors/1253622119p2/2995577.jpg]'s first book, [b:Major Pettigrew's Last Stand|8389221|Major Pettigrew's Last Stand|Helen Simonson|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/book/50x75-a91bf249278a81aabab721ef782c4a74.png|6837577] and I still stand by that but I cannot believe this is the same author! I realize the subject matter, setting, time period, etc were obviously different but I mean the writing. It just wasn't the same playful, endearing tone. I found the book quite boring most of the time. Around the middle, I got a bit intrigued about Beatrice and Hugh but really, I was mostly puzzled. What was the point of the character of Mr. TIllingham - he was so inconsistent. And Daniel's homosexual relationship with Craigmore that was hinted at but never actually addressed? Again, what was the point?
emotional
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I loved this - well-written, a touch of romance, a hint of feminism, some well-earned tears. An excellent read, and made me want to visit Rye. If you like those "British village life" books like Barbara Pym or Lucia, then you will love this.
'The Summer Before the War' came highly recommended to me as a lover of Downtown Abbey, and I definitely understand why that connection has been made. Upon finishing the novel I found myself wanting to re-watch the entire show! The book itself made for a lovely weekend read, and I especially appreciated how each character's story served to further that of the others -none of them felt as thought they had been 'tacked on' for the mere sake of diversity. The inclusion of characters from across class boundaries made for a much fuller feeling novel, as being able to compare circumstances and associated 'acceptable behaviors' allowed for further emphasizing with each character. Beatrice Nash was an absolute inspiration, and I appreciated how we were able to partake in her struggles; this wasn't just a woman trying to be revolutionary and strike out on her own, but one who had lost someone important to her, and was accustomed to a certain way of living, which she was now trying to continue. Watching her come to terms with no longer being able to do things as she used to, and adjusting her behaviors and attitudes to reflect that which was deemed 'acceptable' while maintaining the strength and integrity of her character was refreshing.
I was surprised, at first, that the novel actually dealt with the war: I was expecting more of a 'last summer of freedom' sort of novel as suggested by its title. It was thus surprising to see the war dealt with, though I did appreciate the focus on the psychological aspect of it, as well as how it impacted each character and their circumstances.
I was surprised, at first, that the novel actually dealt with the war: I was expecting more of a 'last summer of freedom' sort of novel as suggested by its title. It was thus surprising to see the war dealt with, though I did appreciate the focus on the psychological aspect of it, as well as how it impacted each character and their circumstances.