dreamingofbookpages 's review for:

The Summers Between Us by Noreen Nanja

4.5

emotional funny medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: A mix

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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If you’re a sucker for second chance romances and childhood friends-to-lovers stories, The Summers Between Us is going to steal your heart—I literally flew through it!

It’s been over a decade since Lia last saw Wes. She’s been busy building her career as a lawyer in Toronto, but now, returning to her family’s cottage in Pike Bay, all the feelings she once had for Wes—the boy she loved, the best friend she lost—come rushing back. Once, she thought they were destined for forever, but life had other plans. Now, back where it all began, what could this mean for them?

Told from Lia’s perspective and alternating between past and present, this book is a beautiful, sweet romance about two people finding their way back to each other. To move forward, they must face old wounds, past mistakes, and who they’ve become—but more importantly, they must decide who they want to be.

It’s also a heartfelt story about learning to put yourself first—especially for Lia Jumma. Being a young, ambitious lawyer came at a cost, as many of her life choices were shaped by family expectations and a deep need to make her immigrant parents proud, to honor their sacrifices. But this story reminds us all to take control of our own lives and carefully consider the people and things that truly bring us happiness.

Overall, this was such a wholesome read, with lovable characters, natural pacing, and equal parts funny and charming. I literally inhaled it.