Summer Skin
Written by Kirsty Eagar
Contemporary, Awesomeness
Published February 2016
352 Pages
Thank you to Allen & Unwin
★★★★★
Jess Gordon is out for revenge. Last year the jocks from Knights College tried to shame her best friend. This year she and a hand picked college girl gang are going to get even.The lesson: don't mess with Unity girls.The target. Blondie, a typical Knights stud, arrogant, cold... And smart enough to keep up with Jess.A neoriot girl with a penchant for fanning the flames meets a rugby playing pig, sworn enemies or two people who happen to find each other when they're at their most vulnerable?It's all Girl meets Boy, Girl steals from Boy, seduces Boy, ties Boy to a chair and burns Boy's stuff. Just your typical love story.
Oh Kirsty Eagar, how I love thee.
As a reader, don't you tire of the same protagonists? The sleek, blonde and usually perfect young women who seem to have it all on a platter? Yeah, me too kids. Me too. You clearly haven't met Jess. Jess Gordon is a strong, no nonsense girl that could be the voice of the young feminism movement. Jess attends a not so prestigious collage with campus boarding, where females band together against the onslaught against the Knights, an all male boarding house who teach sexism as an extra curricular activity. Jess's story begins with her mission into the Knights lair, looking for a prize in their new annual ritual to repay their previous deeds only a year prior. Blondie doesn't look like a typical Knight but he sure shares their arrogance and catches Jess in her tangled lie of guernsey thievery and playing a doting yet imaginary girlfriend.
Now suddenly Mitch is everywhere and that makes him easy prey.
Mitch is very much the alpha male type character. He's undeniably sexy but does nothing to dispel the sexist label that is placed upon what he represents, even if Mitch isn't part of the typical Knight culture and Jess is the last girl he should be playing games with. The sexual tension between the two was delicious, the banter and sarcasm was hilarious. But under the surface, both Jess and Mitch have their issues. As lovely as Jess is, she's also incredibly cynical about others intentions, especially a Knight and they aren't exactly boyfriend material. She's also just escaped from a toxic relationship, in which she was not only oppressed but the relationship portrayed as being emotionally abusive. Mitch on the other hand is haunted by a ghost from his past. Physically, he's well aware of how attractive he is but emotionally he won't allow anyone to break past the barrier he uses to ensure women don't become attached. Jess included. Jess isn't the shy and subdued lamb you typically find in new adult novels, she's feisty and not afraid to call others out on their bullshit. Including Mitch.
Jess and Mitch's chemistry sizzles. She's feministic, he's sexist and although they tend to clash, there's an incredibly tentative and gentle romance forming between the two. Slowly, Mitch's attitude towards not only his own demons, but also women, begins to change. Jess doesn't want to make him a better version of himself but through compassion and being such a pivotal person in his life, he wants to change. For her but more importantly, for himself.
The sex is wonderful, Kristy Eagar you saucy minx. It's so well written, sexy without being the focal point of the storyline which is what seems to occur with similar books within the genre. It's mature, sensual and incredibly sex positive. Jess isn't ashamed to give into her urges, nor should she be and I loved that characters were able to talk openly about sex without being shamed. It was incredibly empowering and a refreshing change.
One of the funniest scenes is between Jess and her strong female group of friends at a local building site. Where women are often on the end of cat calls and crass comments, it was brilliant seeing the girls taking control of the situation and be the ones objectifying male workers for once. It was written in such a positive light, with both parties engaging in heavy innuendo banter.
Summer Skin is a book to empower young women. The snark, the strong female characters, the compassion and tenderness. The message of being your own person and fighting against the stereotypes of both sexes, all wrapped up in a realistic, relatable and hilarious storyline.
Now suddenly Mitch is everywhere and that makes him easy prey.
Mitch is very much the alpha male type character. He's undeniably sexy but does nothing to dispel the sexist label that is placed upon what he represents, even if Mitch isn't part of the typical Knight culture and Jess is the last girl he should be playing games with. The sexual tension between the two was delicious, the banter and sarcasm was hilarious. But under the surface, both Jess and Mitch have their issues. As lovely as Jess is, she's also incredibly cynical about others intentions, especially a Knight and they aren't exactly boyfriend material. She's also just escaped from a toxic relationship, in which she was not only oppressed but the relationship portrayed as being emotionally abusive. Mitch on the other hand is haunted by a ghost from his past. Physically, he's well aware of how attractive he is but emotionally he won't allow anyone to break past the barrier he uses to ensure women don't become attached. Jess included. Jess isn't the shy and subdued lamb you typically find in new adult novels, she's feisty and not afraid to call others out on their bullshit. Including Mitch.
'You're probably also threatened by the fact that the guys here can cope with women in contexts other than porn. Not like a bunch of little lords who hate women because they secretly prefer getting hot and sweaty with each other under the guise of chasing a leather ball around a field.'
She's awesomely fierce and refuses to sugar coat her words.
The sex is wonderful, Kristy Eagar you saucy minx. It's so well written, sexy without being the focal point of the storyline which is what seems to occur with similar books within the genre. It's mature, sensual and incredibly sex positive. Jess isn't ashamed to give into her urges, nor should she be and I loved that characters were able to talk openly about sex without being shamed. It was incredibly empowering and a refreshing change.
Other aspects that Summer Skin also explores is the need for young women to feel validated, quite often by social media. Allie is a beautiful and kind hearted girl who only feels validated by photos she posts of herself on Instagram which creates such fluctuations in her emotional state, often effecting her friendships."I want you to revise your attitude. Women, amazingly enough, are allowed to like it. If that's news to you, then you're not doing it right."
One of the funniest scenes is between Jess and her strong female group of friends at a local building site. Where women are often on the end of cat calls and crass comments, it was brilliant seeing the girls taking control of the situation and be the ones objectifying male workers for once. It was written in such a positive light, with both parties engaging in heavy innuendo banter.
It's all about the innuendo.'I've got a big hard thing!' yelled a guy who'd been marking out a sizable plank of wood. 'See from here,' Jess shouted, 'it looks just like you're holding a stubby little pencil!'
Summer Skin is a book to empower young women. The snark, the strong female characters, the compassion and tenderness. The message of being your own person and fighting against the stereotypes of both sexes, all wrapped up in a realistic, relatable and hilarious storyline.
Buy it. Idolise it. Refer to it as the thinking young womans bible. You need this book in your life. Kirsty Eagar, you complete me.Kelly's final verdict
I don't know why you're still reading, you should be opening a new tab and buying the shit out of this book.
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I have this sitting on um...well currently it's on the floor (on top of other books!) because I ran out of space (again) but I surely do intend to read it soon! It sounds so fun. Wonderful review Kelly! I'm really looking forward to it now :)
ReplyDeleteNo no Wattle, you must read it at once! I demand you whip it out and carry it around like a bible.
DeleteMelina Marchetta wrote about this new novel on her blog a month ago. I so wish it's readily available here! Maybe Book Depo would have it soon (I hope). She's a fantastic author from what I've read of hers in the past, so I'm really excited to read this!
ReplyDeleteThey have it in stock now Joy, as Nick mentioned below. I didn't see it on Melina Marchetta's blog, but you know if the Marchetta is excited then it's a must buy as well. It's a phenomenal read and if this book doesn't win a shitload of awards this year, I'll be raging on.
DeleteKelly, I want this book so BADLY! I checked on The Book Depo and it's $18 for a paperback. That's a little too much for me, so I'm going to have to wait to see if there's going to be a price drop.
ReplyDeleteAnyways, I know I'm going to love this book just from reading your review. Jess, especially, sounds like my kind of girl. And I love how even though this is a NA/romance book, there's a whole lot of feminist themes. The innuendo quote though! LOVE IT!
I can't wait! :)
Lovely review, Kelly!
It's new adult like you've never read before Nick. I'm not a fan of new adult, it's always the same themes over and over again but this is so incredibly empowering. It's more than just a feministic approach, but it has such a big heart. I loved this book to the moon and back.
DeleteI am reading it now :-) :-) thanks to you :-P :-) I LOVE Jess!!!!!! Jess and her friends feel real, and I dig that. I keep going hot and cold over Mitch, so we'll see where I end up lol, probably hot.
ReplyDeleteI hearted Jess so hard Sarah, isn't she amazing! I was torn over his character too, until you reach that part and then you'll fall in love with him. I can't wait to see what you think of it!
DeleteYESSSSSSSSSSSSS OMG KIRSTY EAGAR. I had the INCREDIBLE experience of meeting her and I nearly wet myself. This books is my happy place.
ReplyDeleteIt's such a brilliant read! I'm thinking of inviting her over for a pyjama party where we can braid each others hair. I love her, we should totally be besties.
DeleteYEESS!! I'm currently reading this book and am absolutely loving it! Anyone looking to buy and is from Australia should check out Booko. It's a site where they list the places where they sell the book for the cheapest and usually offer free shipping!! https://booko.com.au/9781925266924/Summer-Skin
ReplyDeleteI'm a massive fan of Booko too Alecia and use it everytime I purchase (mainly to take advantage of Booktopia's free shipping). Oh how I loved this book. I've just purchased her previous release in Raw Blue and can't wait until it arrives!
DeleteIt's great isn't it? I only discovered Booko recently and purchased Summer Skin for only $15.95 with free shipping and a signed copy from Booktopia so I got a great bargain! And omg Raw Blue is fantastic! I really hope you enjoy!! I'd say though that I'm enjoying Summer Skin a little more though. Kirsty's only improved in her work IMO :)
DeleteWow, sounds like a really worthwhile read. I like that the female MC isn't your typical girl character either!
ReplyDeleteLauren
Jess is amazing Lauren, I can't even put into words how much I love this book!
DeleteWhat the ...? I need this book! Like now!
ReplyDeleteYes, yes you do Christy. You'll absolutely adore it!
DeleteThis sounds like an incredible and empowering read, your description of the heroine totally made me seal clap. The book looks to be magnetic and complex, just my favourite kind of thing ever. I have been consistently hearing glowing praises with this one, so I will definitely nab it the next time I see it at Dymocks. Thanks for the review, Kells <3
ReplyDeleteI can't wait for you to read it Aentee, this is most definitely your type of book. Smart, sexy and a brilliant read.
DeleteNick told me about this book a few weeks ago and it sounds soooo good! I hate that it won't be out in the US as an ebook because this sounds like exactly my kind of book. Glad you loved this Kelly!
ReplyDeleteOh no, the rights haven't been sold there? I know you can get it as a paperback on The Book Depository and on the Aussie Kindle store. Maybe if anyone wants a copy, we could gift it from Amazon Australia if that works? It's definitely a must read!
DeleteGUESS WHO WON THIS BOOK AND IS MONSTROUSLY AHPPY ABOUT IT. SQUEEEE!! *commences happy dance* I mean, it sounds a bit more steamier than what I usually read? But I'm a brave old ancient adult. I got this. (Although I think the cover is a little blindingly pink. XD)
ReplyDeleteBit it's hot pink and who doesn't love a bit of hot pink. It's super sexy smushy, but it makes for such an incredible read. I'll read anything by Kirsty Eagar now. Books. Journals. Shopping lists. Taxation documents.
DeleteThis book sounds right upto my alley! I can't wait to read it. Love your review! Adding it to my tbr right now! :-)
ReplyDelete- Poulami @ Daydreaming Books
Thanks Poulami. I can't wait to see what you think of it!
DeleteOK KELLY OK. YOU HAVE CONVINCED ME. Especially since this is NA, and I know from gchat and your ravings and gushings that I WILL have to try this. Even if it is out of my comfort zone. Now I'm just hoping this is licensed in the US. It better be :) Plus those quotes were incredibly awesome, I'm really looking forward to the characters!
ReplyDeleteI'm not a new adult reader either my dear Valerie, but this could be considered more nature young adult with sexy, sexy times. Nothing like the drama filled sex romp that most NA books are. It's awesome and I can almost guarantee you'll adore it too.
DeleteThis book definitely sounds powerful and feminist which is fantastic, and in a healthy way! It's interesting just how that sexist character changes throughout the course of the novel, with Jess's influence. Oh man, that male construction site thing sounds so cheesy lol. Can't wait to read it!
ReplyDeleteIt was such a realistic transformation too Jeann. Jess never pushed him or gave him an ultimatum, she led by example and stuck to her guns when he was being an asshole and was compassionate when Mitch needed her emotionally which was something I think most men struggle with. I can't wait for you to read this one.
DeleteThis book sounds amazeballs!!!! I swear I had a dream two days ago that I was in a girl gang and we were all BAMFs so now I'm going to have to read this. I've rarely read anything NA so far (not for lack of trying) I love seeing new authors interpreting the genre in a different way. What a breath of fresh air this book will be, lol!
ReplyDeleteI so want to join your girl gang Taylor. We can have matching jackets and everything. I don't read new adult either, but this book called to me and I'm so thankful I took the chance. It's absolutely incredible Taylor!
DeleteOh my gosh I want this book SO BAD. It sounds gorgeous, empowering and so damn funny. Why does it have everything it could possibly have?
ReplyDeleteRead this review awhile ago and finally commenting oops. BUT HONESTLY KELLY THIS BOOK SOUNDS LIKE IT WAS WRITTEN FOR ME. Feminism?! Combating sexism?! Sex positivism?! Not to mention a steamy romance with a college backdrop??? AND SNARK AND BANTER FROM THE MC YES YES YES. God I wish this book was in the bookstore yesterday because honestly all I could think of while shopping was your review of Summer Skin. I found it so hard to pick other books (a miracle LOL) because UGH I wanted THIS one so badly.
ReplyDeleteI honestly don't read a lot of NA because I've had a lot of bad experiences with it. God, I've read so many cheesy and over top sex scenes (LOL THE HORSE ONE FROM THE GCHAT) and also the ones I read tend to have sexism and even abusive relationships throughout. Summer Skin sounds like such a refreshing and healthy addition to the NA genre (: Definitely necessary and you bet I will be checking my local bookstore religiously till I have this hot pink beauty in my hands.
Amazing review Kells <33
Welp, I was already pretty darn excited to read this book... but now I'm PUMPED!! This sounds like EXACTLY what I was hoping for!! So happy you loved it so much!! :)
ReplyDeleteHave you read Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar? It’s YA. I loved it. I’m really looking forward to read Summer Skin. Wonderful review, Kelly! Now I want to read this book even more. Jess sounds like an amazing heroine, and I love the sound of this romance.
ReplyDelete