Newport's Gilded Age

Chapter 5

“GILDED SUMMERS by Donna Russo Morin is a lush and evocative novel of the distinctive period known as Newport"s Gilded Age, a period brought vibrantly to life in this powerful work. Ginevra and Pearl, unique in their own way yet equally sympathetic, are captivating from the start and never let go. The passages and chapters are exquisitely and uniquely intertwined, like the young lives of its characters, sewn seamlessly with the mounting mystery and suspense. Vivid descriptions evoke the setting and period with such mastery, one feels like a "fly on the wall", living there with these young women who are so well-crafted and developed. A genuine "can"t-put-it-down" novel, a triumph by a masterful writer!”

-Anne Girard (Diane Haegar) author of Madame Picasso

“Author Donna Russo Morin has a knack for both character and historical authenticity, making this journey into Newport"s Gilded Age a fascinating and fulfilling tale. From the well-described details of the surroundings and costumes to the social structures at play and the strictures of upper and lower class lives, Russo Morin captures an era where women are ready to break out. Pearl and Ginevra have the same spirit for freedom and choice, but they are distinctly well presented and developed as very different women who compliment one another"s misgivings. Gilded Summers is sure to suit fans of the likes of Downton Abbey, but it delivers far deeper emotional connections and realistic portrayals and is a highly recommended historical read.”

-Readers Favorite

“The characters of Pearl and Ginevra provide two different but compelling lenses to view life at the time… as segments of delightfully descriptive Gilded Age Newport abound. The twist is unexpected!”

-Historical Novel Society

“Gilded Summers perfectly illustrates the lives of women in the 19th century and how few rights they had at the time. I have long been a fan of this author. She knows how to vibrantly tell a historical story while still staying true to the historical side of things. Her passion for the Newport area shines through in her words. Gilded Summers is an insightful glimpse into an age and place where women, even women of power, were merely objects and ornamentation. It is also an inspiring story of two women who chose to buck convention and live lives of their choosing; women who pioneered the way for the women of future generations.”

-The True Book Addict

“This is remarkable historical fiction that this reviewer highly recommends. Donna Russo Martin"s writing has evolved into something more meaningful, serious but joyfully engaging, and memorable in a creative, new style sure to endear her to readers of all ages! Wonder-full!”

-Crystal Book Reviews

“A wonderful peek at the Gilded Age of Newport, RI, filled with the Astors and Vanderbilts and a bit of mystery.”

-Baer Books Blog