The Summers sisters return to us in the second book of the “On Devonshire Shores” series.  Emily Summers is the main focus of this novel, although we do get to check in with Sarah as well, from time to time.

I greatly enjoyed the history in this book, with much of the story involving the Duke and Duchess of Kent (parents of the future Queen Victoria) and their historic visit to Sidmouth.  Although the visit ends tragically, the history was fascinating, as well as the effect that royal visitors had for the residents of Sidmouth.

It was fun reading the quotes at the beginning of each chapter, giving us a clue as to what the chapter will be about.  I also enjoyed learning that several secondary characters in the story were actual historical figures.

As for the fictional story, it was charming.  Perfect for a winter evening of gentle reading.  The author’s note says there will be another full length novel in the series, and a Christmas novella.  I am anticipating quite a story for the remaining full length novel.  This one hints at a possible attempt to reunite with the Summers sister we have yet to meet.  If you have read these first two books, you’ll understand that it would be quite an undertaking to make that happen!  

If you enjoyed the first novel in this series, you will undoubtedly enjoy this one.  While you may be able to read this one alone, I would recommend reading the first novel beforehand, as this one does build from it quite a bit.  Thus, if you have not read the first one, you now have two new books awaiting you!

“Book has been provided courtesy of Baker Publishing Group and Graf-Martin Communications, Inc.”