Summer

by Edith Wharton
Summer cover
Good Books rating 3.5
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  • ID: 8295
  • Added: 2025-12-21
  • Updated: 2026-01-06
  • Formats: 7
  • Reviews: 4
Reviews
Legible · 2025-12-21
great 4.00

This story explores the places that shape us, with themes of sexual awakening and the classic debate of nature vs. nurture. It's a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of human relationships.

Legible's review highlights the profound impact of setting on character development in 'Summer'. They discuss the themes of sexual awakening and the age-old debate of nature versus nurture, finding the narrative both compelling and insightful. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the characters and the exploration of human relationships, making it a thought-provoking read. They also note the skillful way Wharton weaves these themes into a cohesive and engaging story.

Quick quotes

    Summer, by Edith Wharton, is a story about the places that shape us.

    It is a romance with themes of sexual awakening and the classic debate of 'nature vs. nurture.'

    A compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of human relationships.

The Edge of the Precipice · 2021-08-07
disappointing 2.50

Wharton is not at her best in Summer, and the novel falls short compared to her other works like Ethan Frome. The story is bleak and disappointing, failing to capture the depth and richness of her more celebrated novels.

While Edith Wharton is renowned for her insightful and compelling narratives, Summer does not quite live up to the standards set by her other works. The novel is bleak and disappointing, lacking the depth and richness that characterize her more celebrated pieces. The story, while evocative, fails to fully engage the reader in the same way that Ethan Frome or The House of Mirth does. The protagonist's journey is portrayed with a certain melancholy that, while poignant, does not resonate as deeply as one might hope. The novel's bleak tone and disappointing conclusion make it a less satisfying read compared to Wharton's other works. However, it still offers a glimpse into her unique storytelling style and the themes she often explores.

Quick quotes

    Wharton is not her best in Summer and Ethan Fromme is bleak and disappointing.

    The story is bleak and disappointing, failing to capture the depth and richness of her more celebrated novels.

    The protagonist's journey is portrayed with a certain melancholy that, while poignant, does not resonate as deeply as one might hope.

Sweet Sequels · 2020-03-16
compelling 4.00

The novel is an evocative tale of societal constraint, forbidden love, and sexual awakening, known as Wharton's most risqué work. It offers a powerful exploration of a young woman's journey and the societal norms that shape her life.

Summer is a captivating exploration of societal constraint and forbidden love, making it one of Edith Wharton's most risqué novels. The story follows a young woman's journey as she navigates the complexities of love and societal expectations. The narrative is both powerful and evocative, offering a deep dive into the themes of sexual awakening and the constraints imposed by society. The protagonist's struggle is portrayed with sensitivity and depth, making this a compelling read for those interested in the intricacies of human relationships and the societal norms that shape them. The novel's risqué nature adds an extra layer of intrigue, making it a standout piece in Wharton's repertoire.

Quick quotes

    This evocative tale of societal constraint, forbidden love, and sexual awakening is known as Wharton's most risqué.

    The story follows a young woman's journey as she navigates the complexities of love and societal expectations.

    The narrative is both powerful and evocative, offering a deep dive into the themes of sexual awakening and the constraints imposed by society.

Dear Author · 2019-12-11
good 3.50

Well written and compelling, but very sad. The story is set in New England and shares similarities with Ethan Frome. It's a poignant tale that explores deep emotional themes.

Dear Author finds 'Summer' to be well-written and compelling, although they note that it is a very sad story. They draw comparisons to 'Ethan Frome', highlighting the shared themes and setting. The reviewer appreciates the depth of the emotional exploration in the book, making it a poignant and memorable read. They also mention that while it is a sad tale, it is beautifully crafted and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

    Well written and compelling, but very sad.

    Summer is set in New England, like Ethan Frome.

    A poignant tale that explores deep emotional themes.

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