I'm a southern girl at heart, so I confess that I am drawn to stories set in the South - particularly Savannah and other coastal Carolina settings - so that was what initially piqued my interest in Under a Summer Sky by Melody Carlson. The story, however, is what drew me in - this is a light-hearted, easy read, picturesque in its descriptions, and the characters are well drawn. I particularly enjoyed the spunky Bernie, Vivian Graham's granddaughter who shows up in a most unexpected way.

I think Nicole's story would resonate with many - feeling stuck in a rut, and wanting a change. Having a new opportunity drop in your lap is a life saver, and for her, a life changer. As a high school teacher, you know she's no pushover, but she finds more resolve in dealing with the delightfully nasty Amyra and in connecting with and caring for the semi-abandoned young Bernie.

In the praise shown above, Publishers Weekly describes it as "winsome" and I think that is the perfect adjective for the book: sweetly or innocently charming and engaging. This is a sweet romance story.While the book is categorized as Christian, I didn't find it heavily interwoven with faith or scripture or preaching of any sort. Prayers are said before meals, and there is just a general goodness - nothing racy so that you couldn't pass on to Grandma to read. (Assuming yours isn't like my Grams, who loved her Harlequin romances, but that's another story.)

I admit, the trust that Vivian, the gallery owner, put in Nicole - despite that she was an old friend of Nicole's mother - was pretty strong for someone she hadn't seen in years, and the ending left me with a few questions unanswered, but it didn't affect how I enjoyed the story. This was a fun novel, perfect for a summer read. Under a Summer Sky is the third book in the Follow Your Heart series but works well as a standalone book - and I'm looking forward to going back to read the first two in the series because this one was so charming.

I was provided a copy of the book for review purposes. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ( )

As usual, Melody Carlson has a way of drawing me in to find out what happens to her cast of characters! With a very vivid description of life in Savannah, her latest novel was just the type of quick read I was looking for without it being too cheesy. Although it took a bit to get the story moving, overall I loved it! ( )

Under a Summer Sky is the third book in Melody Carlson's Follow Your Heart Series. The story is set in Savannah, Georgia and lends a beautiful back drop to a wonderful, romantic and enjoyable story. A great way to spend a few relaxing moments of time while sipping your favorite beverage and enjoying the Summer months!

4 Stars

I received this book for free. A favorable review was not required and all views expressed are my own. Thank you to Ms. Carlson, Revell Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book ( )

This book is so full of surprises. A couple of siblings rivalry. From childhood vacations to adulthood Nicole and friend meet for years.. Nicole's Mom gets her friend to have Nicole houseset and manage gallery while friend goes on a cruise. Strange noises in attic bring Nicole and Bernice, a teenager, together. Restoring homes, ghosts, and two brothers competing for Nicole's attention at same time. Who will win? or will either? Read to find out. Savannah, a time of believing houses are haunted and ghost tours part of read. Dare you to get it. It will capture you. ( )