Time Travel, Trust, and the Magic of Scotland: My Review of Eternal Summer by Rebecca Ruger

Can we just talk about how incredible every single one of Rebecca's book covers are? So gorgeous!

Eternal Summer by Rebecca Ruger is a breathtaking continuation of her historical time-travel series, following the enchanting story of Gabby and Aedan. Picking up where And Be My Love left off, this novel expands on the captivating world Ruger has created, bringing together new characters while weaving in familiar faces. With its rich character building, atmospheric setting, and heartfelt romance, this book is a must-read for fans of historical romance and time-travel adventures.

The Storyline

The story begins with Gabby, a modern-day woman simply walking along the beach, enjoying her solitude. But her life takes a dramatic turn when a sudden storm engulfs her, pulling her into darkness. When she awakens, Gabby finds herself in another time, convinced she must be stuck in a dream.

Enter Aedan, a man burdened by loss and grief. Having recently buried his brother and still mourning his late wife, Aedan is a guarded and gruff figure. But when a witch visits him and cryptically tells him to “accept the girl with blue eyes” because she will solve the murder, his path collides with Gabby’s.

Reluctantly, Aedan agrees to take Gabby on a journey to a place he’s never heard of—a destination that ties their story to the events and characters from And Be My Love. This place is where Kayla and Eloise reside, further connecting the intricate web of time, relationships, and fate that Rebecca Ruger has masterfully crafted.

What Makes This Book Shine

Rebecca Ruger’s ability to weave historical detail into her stories is nothing short of extraordinary. From the rugged Scottish countryside to the frustrations of navigating life in a time so far removed from modern conveniences, Ruger makes every scene vivid and immersive. As someone who has never visited Scotland but now yearns to, I reveled in her ability to paint such a rich and beautiful picture of the landscape.

The character development in Eternal Summer is truly impressive. Gabby and Aedan’s struggle to trust each other—and themselves—feels authentic and deeply emotional. Their dynamic is layered with tension, vulnerability, and growth, making their journey both heartfelt and compelling.

What’s even more exciting is how Ruger brings characters from previous books into the fold. The connections between Gabby, Aedan, Kayla, and Eloise create a sense of continuity that rewards readers who follow the series. Knowing there are 10 books in this series, plus Nicol and Eloise’s standalone story (A Year of Days), only adds to the excitement of seeing how these characters and their stories intertwine.

Reading Order Suggestion

While I didn’t read Nicol and Eloise’s story before diving into And Be My Love or Eternal Summer, I’d recommend reading them in chronological order to fully appreciate the intricate connections:

1. A Year of Days (Nicol and Eloise’s story)

2. And Be My Love

3. Eternal Summer

That said, not starting with Nicol and Eloise’s book didn’t take away from my enjoyment of this one. Ruger’s writing is accessible and rich enough to keep readers engaged, no matter where they jump in.

STEAMY Level & Where to Read

The romance between Gabby and Aedan is a slow burn with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting. The focus remains on their emotional connection and the unfolding mystery, making it a perfect balance of romance and plot.

STEAMY Level: 4/10 (Safe to read in public or at the gym!)

Final Thoughts

Eternal Summer by Rebecca Ruger is a deeply immersive and beautifully written addition to her historical time-travel series. The combination of rich character development, stunning descriptions of Scotland, and an intriguing storyline make this book a standout. Ruger’s ability to tie her books together while giving each one its own unique flair is nothing short of masterful.

Whether you’re new to the series or a returning fan, this book will leave you enchanted—and eager to explore the rest of the series.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5/5)

Have you read Eternal Summer or any of Rebecca Ruger’s other time-travel romances? Let me know your thoughts and which book in the series is your favorite in the comments below!