One Golden Summer | Book Review
The sequel to Every Summer After.
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One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune
400 pages | Published by Berkley
The Set Up: Alice spent one summer at the lake when she was a teen, watching the kids across the water live the carefree way she has never been able to. On a break from work, she’s brought her grandmother back to the lake for a quiet summer as she recovers from a broken hip. The peaceful summer Alice has planned is quickly interrupted by Charlie—a shameless flirt, who’s determined to help Alice have the perfect summer.
I really enjoyed going back to Barry’s Bay in this one! I wasn’t sure if I cared about getting Charlie’s story, but of COURSE Carley Fortune delivered. This book feels like summer. I did read this beach/poolside, but no matter where I read, I would have been transported to a dreamy summer afternoon.
This could absolutely be read as a standalone if you haven’t ready Every Summer After, but I would recommend reading them in order, since there’s mention of a huge ESA plot point in this one. I really loved being back on the lake with these characters and discovering where their stories have gone.
“Just see where the sun takes you. And don't forget: Good things happen at the lake.“
Charlie and Alice have incredible chemistry and banter (I hate the word banter, but it is what it is). They balanced each other really nicely, and I especially loved the inclusion of Alice’s grandma. Her relationship with each character was really special. Of course I’m obsessed with Charlie—he is summer personified, a Dandelion Boy through and through.
The summer bucket list is always a fun plot device, and Carley’s writing is as amazing as ever. I think she’s one of the best contemporary romance writers out there. Her stories are always evocative, and while you definitely get all of the romance butterflies, there’s always real depth to her work.
Another certified banger, in my opinion!
The High Dive | Book Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The High Dive by Chelsea Fagan
10 out of 10!! I loved this from beginning to end. There is so much sizzling tension in this book, what I’m beginning to think might be Chelsea Fagan’s specialty.
Swept Away | Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Swept Away by Beth O’Leary
I didn’t know I needed survivalist romance in my life but here we are!! Plot-wise, Swept Away is a pretty big departure from the romances Beth O’Leary has written in the past, but I think she really nailed it.
Say You'll Remember Me | Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐ Say You'll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez
This book didn’t knock Just for the Summer out of first place for me, but it was still everything I’ve come to love and expect out of a book from Abby Jimenez.
I need to give Carley Fortune another chance. I didn't like the ending of Every Summer After, and I've been avoiding her work since. I have Meet Me at the Lake, I'll have to pick it up soon.