Summer Dream By Martha Rogers

Book one in the Seasons of the Heart series is set in Briar Ridge, Connecticut in 1888 the year of what historians call “The White Hurricane.” Summer Dream tells the story of Rachel Winston, the daughter of a small town minister. Rachel believes her only hope of finding a husband depends on a trip to visit her aunt in Boston. Before she has a chance to leave, Nathan Reed, a young lawyer comes to town. There is an instant attraction between Rachel and Nathan until he finds out that her father is a minister. Nathan wants nothing to do with any woman who is a Christian because of a terrible experience in his past. When Nathan finds himself caught in the blizzard he turns his life over to God and vows to take care of his past and plan for his future.

Mrs. Rogers hits another homerun with the maiden offering in this series. The glimpse into 1880s Boston social society alone makes this a must read. But the history portrayed concerning the blizzard of 1888 is what really kept me interested. I have to admit though, the sweet innocence of the main character and her best friend was a true delight. I wanted them to be friends with my own daughter who is of their age.

Summer Dream really hits home when Rachel Winston continues to pray for the man she truly loves and never gives up on him even when it seems hopeless. It’s a good lesson for all of us who have situations or people they are praying for where there seems to be no good solution. But the Bible says “nothing is impossible with God.”

Thank you Mrs. Rogers for once again managing to hook me on another of your heartwarming romance series. Suppose I’ll have to keep my eye out for the next offering in the series, Autumn Song, releasing in October 2011!