Next up in the Platform Book club is Journalism student Kirke Viira, with her review of The Last Days of Summer by Sophie Pembroke.
Family secrets start to unravel in this romantic and intriguing page-turner by Sophie Pembroke.
The Last Days of Summer transports the readers to stunning Rosewood manor, home to seemingly picture-perfect high-class family. But this summer changes everything and no one can hide from their past anymore.
Pembroke is known for her romance novels, and this book can be classed as her most popular work. It even has a sequel called Christmas at Rosewood.
Pembroke has included mystery and drama to her usual classic romance, which makes the book truly addictive. The main character is Saskia – an outcast – trying to reconnect with her family after the horrible chaos she had caused a few years ago. She decides to return home when her grandfather insists, she should be there for her grandparents’ 50th wedding anniversary.
Saskia’s mission is clear- this is the chance for her to finally make things right with her family. However, during her visit, it turns out that her shame is nothing compared to her family`s sins. Has there been a murder covered up at Rosewood manor? Why is everyone being so secretive? And who can she really trust?
Saskia must find answers to all these questions and luckily, she is helped out by a handsome and smart new assistant Edward, making her heart flutter.
The Last Days of Summer is a great read for my fellow hopeless romantics, who also have a passion for the thrill you get from mysteries.
The plot is well-developed, always keeping you on your toes and making it impossible to put the book down.
But beside the entertainment value, it also makes you think about more complex subjects, like forgiveness, loss, pain and loving someone no matter what.
I like that the author doesn’t spend too much time on prolonged descriptions, but still manages to portray perfectly the dreamy setting that is the spectacular Rosewood manor in all its glory.
If I’d have to rate this book, I’d give it 4 out of 5 stars- it keeps the reader interested throughout the whole storyline and the build-up to the conclusion is gripping, however the ending is not as fascinating as I expected.
My favourite quote from the book would be: “Home isn’t a place, it’s a feeling. An overwhelming emotion that, once you’ve felt it, you can’t live without.”
By Kirke Viira
Feature image: Apple Books