Dale Harcombe's Reviews > The Summer Seaside Kitchen

Ever since Flora Mc Kenzie moved to London she has been adamant she would never return to Mure the small Scottish Island where she grew up. In Mure everyone knows too much about each other and Flora’s mistakes of the past are not forgotten. But in London she has anonymity and a boss for whom she has a huge crush. Only problem is her boss, Joel, doesn’t seem to notice her. When a wealthy client with big plans for the island and who wants to stop a wind farm from interfering with his plans, paralegal Flora, despite her misgivings ends up with the job. Back in Mure she finds little has changed. Her father and brothers are struggling to keep the farm going. Flora who still misses her mother who died, is appalled at how the men have let the house and farm deteriorate. After she finds her other’s cook book Flora also finds some of her attitudes starting to change. But how long can she stay on Mure before she feels the need to flee back to London?
I had mixed thoughts about this book. I wasn’t particularly drawn to any of the main chracters. Flora initially is very whiny, and the men in the family are all used to having a woman cook and pick up after them. Lorna, Flora’s friend was the most interesting character. As for Joel I never liked him. He was a pig who used women. The two or three romances in this novel I found unbelievable. They just never rang true. However I did like the setting and the interactions with some of the local people. For those who feel so inclined some of the recipes Flora uses are included at the back of the book.
Although I was happy enough to read it I never felt that involved with the characters. It was like standing one the sidelines watching it happen. The emotions of the characters never touched me. I have read two other books by this author and was looking forward to this one. But it just didn’t live up to expectations. However I am sure there will be plenty of people who will love it.