I recently finished reading One Golden Summer by Carley Fortune, and I must say, it’s a delightful addition to the cozy romance genre I often find myself gravitating towards. After enjoying her previous works, especially Every Summer After, I was excited to dive back into the world of Barry’s Bay.
One Golden Summer is an exploration of love, growth, and the kind of nostalgia that comes hand-in-hand with summer memories. Alice, a photographer, returns to the lake where her adventurous youth began, intending to care for her grandmother after an accident. There, she encounters Charlie Florek, the charming man from her past who stirs feelings she thought she’d left behind.
One aspect I absolutely loved about this book was its vivid descriptions of the summer landscape in Barry’s Bay. Fortune has a way of transporting readers to the sun-soaked shoreline, immersing us in the beauty of the surroundings and making us feel the warmth of the sun on our skin. As one reviewer put it, this book delivers captivating and delicious descriptions of summer, making it an inviting escape. I found myself wishing I could dive into the lake and enjoy the carefree days alongside Alice and Charlie.
Additionally, the dynamic between Alice and Charlie is beautifully crafted. Their relationship feels genuine and evolves naturally over the course of the story. The chemistry between them is palpable, which made their interactions all the more enjoyable. It’s evident that Charlie not only brings out Alice’s playful side but also encourages her to embrace her true self. This transformation mirrors the journey many of us take during pivotal summers in our lives, making it relatable and heartwarming.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. While I enjoyed the character progression, some may find Charlie’s flirtatious nature bordering on cliché—an archetype that’s common in romance novels. Reviewers have noted this, suggesting that while he’s charming, his character could have benefited from a bit more depth. Another area that didn’t quite meet my expectations was the pacing toward the end. While the story draws you in effortlessly, the resolution felt a bit rushed. Just when I thought we’d explore deeper emotional layers between Alice and Charlie, it wrapped up neatly, which some readers might find unsatisfying.
Despite these minor critiques, the book succeeds in creating an engaging narrative filled with laughter and emotion. It deftly explores themes of self-discovery alongside the fun elements of summer romance. The supportive role of Alice’s grandmother, Nan, adds a lovely dimension to the story. I found myself laughing and crying in equal measure, reflecting the sentiments expressed in customer reviews—this book beautifully balances humor with moments of poignancy.
In summary, One Golden Summer is a charming read that whisked me away to a sunny lakeside getaway. While it might have a few predictable elements, Fortune effectively weaves together a warm tale filled with nostalgia, personal growth, and sweet romance. If you’re a fan of heartfelt stories that make you smile, this is one you should definitely add to your summer reading list. So grab your sunscreen, settle into your favorite reading spot, and enjoy a trip back to Barry’s Bay!
Overall, I highly recommend One Golden Summer for anyone looking to enjoy a well-written contemporary romance that hits all the right notes of nostalgia and warmth—and you just might find a piece of your own summer love story nestled within its pages!