3.98 AVERAGE


4.5 stars!

Reading a Carley Fortune book is akin to soaking in the warm summer sun and relishing it (iykyk). I love everything about her summer reads and am so glad I discovered her writing this year.

I really, really loved this book. It was so subtle and sweet and sexy all at once. She has this way of writing that is so gentle but meaningful. I was a little nervous after reading the premise but it turned out great. Felix was a dream and Lucy was so sweet.

There were some things that bothered me: For example, Bridget's big reveal was a bit... underwhelming for me. I honestly thought she was going to say something wild like Lucy's aunt was actually her mom or something. I also wanted a bit more explanation on why Lucy didn't get along with her family super well. I think it was there in a few instances, but not enough for me personally. I also felt like the third act conflict was kind of lackluster and not needed, but I understand why Carley Fortune set up the end of the book that way.

Anyway I enjoyed it and I am officially a Carley Fortune stan!

This is her best one yet!
emotional
emotional funny lighthearted
funny hopeful lighthearted relaxing
adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No

The perfect feel-good summer romance! 

I had seen this book blow up last summer, and I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to finally read a Carley Fortune book. I loved it, and already put holds in for her other books. 

It’s the exact right blend of everything you want in a summer read. There’s sisterhood/friendship, there’s a gorgeous man pining over our FMC, there’s swoony romance, there’s oysters and island vibes. Can you tell I liked it? 

The story starts when Lucy arrives at Prince Edward Island, where she’s meeting her roommate and best friend Bridget for a girl’s trip. Bridget’s flight is delayed so Lucy stops by a restaurant to pass the time where she meets the most beautiful man she’s ever seen. The two have an instant connection - crack, sizzle, pop - and end up leaving together. They have a night to remember, but the next day Lucy discovers that her one night fling is actually Bridget’s brother Felix. And Bridget gives Lucy one rule - don’t fall in love with my brother.

The story takes place over 5 years, alternating between the present and years past. I love this form of storytelling and it worked well in this book.

Lucy and Felix have undeniable chemistry, and are a natural fit for one other, despite circumstances working against them. The push and pull between them over the years was palpable, and you can just feel that they’re meant to be. They really see each other’s authentic self, and show up for each other in small but mighty ways. 

Let’s talk about our main MMC Felix - I ADORE him! He’s patient, thoughtful, loyal, just all around amazing. I love his quiet, steadfast adoration for Lucy, and I don’t blame her for falling head over heels for the man.

I also really liked Lucy. There is nothing overly interesting or memorable about her, but she has a great vibe. She’s the kind of best friend you’d love to have. She owns a flower shop, deeply loves her best friend, and grows into a strong, confident, happy woman.

I listened to the audiobook and AJ Bridel did an excellent job. This is my first time listening to her, but she instantly drew me into the story. She made Lucy feel so real and authentic - it’s probably why like Lucy so much. If you’re on the fence about listening vs reading, I think you’d be happy to choose the audiobook. I didn’t want to stop listening! 



emotional hopeful relaxing medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
emotional slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Complicated
funny lighthearted medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No