In 2009, we meet Julia Conley, who recently inherited a house near London from a great aunt she never knew. Julia is struggling to find who she is and believes the house might be just the opportunity she needs. As she is exploring the house and all of its myriad of contents, she discovers a hidden Pre-Raphaelite painting that intrigues her.
You will also travel back to 1849 and meet Imogen Grantham and artist Gavin Thorne. Imogen has been trapped in a loveless marriage for many years and when her husband hires Gavin to paint her portrait, a friendship and forbidden romance develops between them.
That Summer offers a glimpse into the life and times of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood. It is a story rich with historical details and engaging characters of the past and present. I look forward to reading more from Lauren Willig.