reviewed by
ANNA C. BOWLING
The name Catherine Anderson has become synonymous with tender American romances, both contemporary and historical. Both meet in Summer Breeze, a sequel to her popular historical, Keegan’s Lady.
Though the cover looks quite contemporary, from font to colors to composition, and there is a frame story with modern day character Tucker Coulter discovering the diary of ancestress Rachel Hollister, with entries dating back to 1882. He finds entries from both Rachel and her husband Joseph, detailing the early days of their marriage. Tucker and his mother puzzle over why Rachel seemed to deliberately avoid writing the letter H, and who was behind the savage attack that killed Rachel’s entire family.
In 1882, Rachel found her idyllic life shattered during a family picnic when an unknown assailant massacred the rest of her family, down to their pet dog. Understandably traumatized, she retreats into agoraphobia, barricading herself into living in a single room. She will only allow an elderly family friend to even come near her safe haven, but when he is wounded, he calls neighbor Joseph into service to watch out for Rachel.
Drawing from the strength of his close and supportive family, Joseph is not content to merely protect Rachel, but wants to reach her as well. He is shocked to see how much Rachel has cut herself off from the world, but respects how important her insulation is to her as he sets about wooing her with gentle persistence. Where Joseph goes, his family and friends are sure to follow, and Rachel finds that she is not alone after all. Once Rachel is able to take a risk and trust Joseph, she is also able to begin the process of healing and help to solve the mystery of the killer and his unfinished business while puzzles of the past fall into place.
Rachel’s agoraphobia is depicted with care and accuracy, though some may find her initial first step to recovery to be a bit abrupt and rushed. Fans of the Coulter saga will feel right at home with both the main story and its modern day frame, though those new to the series may find the frame a bit beside the point. The characters from Keegan’s Lady make a fine appearance, supporting the main characters without stealing the show.
Summer Breeze is aptly titled, a relaxing, enjoyable read with the right spice of mystery and emotion to pass the day.
