Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
One Summer at Deers Leap immediately pulled me in with its blend of nostalgia, romance and the lingering echoes of wartime memories. Elizabeth Elgin is known for her sweeping emotional sagas, and this one settles into that familiar, comforting space. The setting is beautifully rooted in rural Yorkshire, centred around Deers Leap, a place touched by both love and loss. The opening chapters promise a story about healing, rediscovering joy and finding connection in unexpected places. It has that classic saga feel with strong character histories and a gentle pace that mirrors summer days stretched long and warm.

✅ What I Liked:
I loved the atmosphere of this book. Elgin writes landscapes with such affection that Deers Leap feels like a character in its own right. The characters arrive carrying their own emotional baggage and the way their stories slowly intertwine feels tender and authentic. The wartime threads are handled with care and add depth without overwhelming the present day storyline. The romance is subtle and slow building, which suits the reflective tone perfectly. There is a real sense of community too, with moments of kindness and warmth that give the novel its heart.

❎ What I didn’t Like:
There are moments where the narrative lingers for longer than necessary and the storyline sometimes meanders. Some characters could have benefitted from more development, especially side characters who had interesting beginnings but were not fully explored. At times the transitions between past and present felt abrupt.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
This is a lovely choice if you enjoy emotional family sagas set against rural backdrops. Fans of gentle romance, generational secrets and stories that weave the past and present together will find lots to love. If you want a book that feels like stepping into a quiet countryside retreat, this is perfect for a slow afternoon read.

💭 Final Thoughts:
One Summer at Deers Leap is a warm, comforting saga filled with heartfelt moments, beautiful landscapes and characters learning to let go of old sorrows. It may not be fast paced, but it is rich in feeling and atmosphere. A gentle, satisfying read that leaves you with a sense of peace.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE and HERE

Final Rating ★★★ – A tender, nostalgic escape into a Yorkshire summer