A Summer in Europe

Marilyn Brant transports readers across the pond on a whimsical journey of self-awakening amidst the classic architecture and stunning vistas of Europe.

On her thirtieth birthday, Gwendolyn Reese receives an unexpected present from her widowed Aunt Bea: a grand tour of Europe in the company of Bea's eccentric Sudoku and Mah-jongg Club. To Gwen, the prospect of spending a month abroad with this unconventional elderly crew isn't entirely appealing. But when the gift she’s been long expecting—an engagement ring from her boyfriend—doesn't materialize, she decides to go.

At first, Gwen approaches the trip as if it's the math homework she assigns her students, diligently checking monuments off her must-see list. But surrounded by the bougainvillea and breathtaking scenery of southern Italy, something changes. Gwen begins to live in the moment—skipping down stone staircases in Capri, running her fingers over a glacier in view of the Matterhorn, racing through the Louvre, and taste-testing pastries at a Marseilles café. Reveling in every new experience, especially her attraction to a charismatic British physics professor, Gwen discovers that the ancient wonders around her are nothing compared to the renaissance unfolding within...

A SUMMER IN EUROPE: It’s not where you go. It’s what you take back with you.

~*~
Praise for the Novel:
“A Summer in Europe is Brant’s best book yet. A thinking woman's love story, it swept me away to breathtaking places with a cast of endearing characters I won't soon forget. Bravissima!”~Susan McBride, USA Today bestselling author of Little Black Dress and Walk Into Silence
“Brant's newest...distinguishes itself with a charismatic leading man and very funny supporting cast, especially the wonderful elderly characters with their resonant message about living life to the fullest.”~Publishers Weekly
“Brant's charming and engaging tale will allow readers to immerse themselves in the magic and beauty of Europe along with the characters. Although the descriptions of the scenery are amazing, the development of the characters and their unique personalities are what really make this novel shine. What an enjoyable escape!”~Romantic Times
“How I wish I were on this European tour with Marilyn Brant’s winsome, wonderful characters. I loved every minute of this delightful novel, from the breathtaking sights to the deliciously described food to the thrilling new experiences.”~Melissa Senate, bestselling author of The Love Goddess’ Cooking School and See Jane Date
“Reading a Marilyn Brant book is like eating a piece of rich chocolate – it gets you excited, it’s deliciously satisfying, and it leaves a smile on your face after you’ve finished it!”~Simone Elkeles, NY Times & USA Today bestselling author of the Perfect Chemistry series
“Marilyn Brant’s A Summer in Europe is a wonderful tale that captivates readers as Gwen, transformed by her surroundings, undergoes a change of heart about life…and love.”~Doubleday Book Club
“Marilyn Brant has done it again: she has crafted a warm and wise novel filled with characters that live on in your imagination. Make sure your passport is in order. After reading A Summer in Europe you’ll want to book your flight immediately!”~Laura Moore, bestselling author of Making Waves
“A Summer in Europe is a love story told with grace, humor, and the finesse established and new Marilyn Brant readers will enjoy for years to come.”~DA Kentner, The Readers’ Writers
“This is a brilliant piece of contemporary literature, it’s timeless in its essence.”~Debbie Haupt, The Reading Frenzy
“Let me start by saying that I LOVED this book! Brant’s writing is smart, quick-witted and her character development is swift and detailed.”~Andrea Katz, Great Thoughts
“Oh this book is like sitting in the sun in the middle of a Roman piazza while eating a big scoop of gelato. It’s lovely and something to be savored...Sigh, this was so good; like a vacation in a book!”~Meg, A Bookish Affair