Book Review: This Summer Will Be Different by Carley Fortune
As an avid fan of contemporary romance, I was thrilled to dive into Carley Fortune’s This Summer Will Be Different, especially given its promising premise involving a love triangle amidst stunning coastal scenery. The story follows Lucy, a tourist in Prince Edward Island, and Felix, her best friend’s younger brother, who she finds utterly irresistible. The allure of forbidden romance paired with the backdrop of a summer getaway had me eager to read it.
From the start, I was captivated by Lucy’s character. Her passion for flowers and running a flower shop added depth to her personality, making her relatable and admirable. I found myself rooting for her as she navigated her complex feelings for Felix, especially knowing he was off-limits. The chemistry between Lucy and Felix crackled off the pages, with many moments that had me holding my breath in anticipation. It’s evident that Fortune excels at creating exhilarating romantic tension; numerous readers have noted how enthralling the back-and-forth dynamics between these two characters can be.
The setting of Prince Edward Island is almost a character in itself. Fortune’s vivid descriptions made me long for the golden sun, red cliffs, and the soothing sound of waves lapping against the shore. This lush imagery combined with the gastronomic delights she describes, like fresh oysters and vinho verde, brings the story alive and fosters that perfect summer vibe.
However, as much as I adored the main characters and the setting, there were some drawbacks that detracted from my overall experience. A few moments felt a bit repetitive, particularly the intimate scenes, which, while steamy, began to run the risk of becoming formulaic. One reviewer, Andrea Rocks, shared similar sentiments, noting that the main characters seemed to fall into a pattern that could easily lead to eye-rolling. I completely understand this perspective; while the romance was engaging, it occasionally strayed into overly familiar territory.
Another point of contention, as mentioned by some readers, was the buildup surrounding the "big secret" that ultimately felt a tad anticlimactic. As someone who thrives on suspense and emotional payoff, I was hoping for more depth in this area. I wished the revelation had more weight, which could have heightened the stakes for both Lucy and Felix and added a greater emotional dimension to their connection.
Despite these critiques, the story’s emotional core triumphs. Lucy’s journey of self-discovery and her friendship with Bridget added layers of poignant moments that resonated. It’s a tale of loyalty, identity, and emotional growth that many readers will find relatable.
In conclusion, This Summer Will Be Different offers readers a delightful escape into the world of summer love, bolstered by a picturesque setting. While it isn’t without its flaws, the engaging characters and romantic tension more than make up for them. I would recommend this book to anyone seeking a lighthearted but heartfelt romance, particularly fans of the best friend’s brother trope. Fortune has crafted another summer read that’s sure to charm, making it an enjoyable pick for your beach bag or cozy couch session!
Overall, I’d rate this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars—it’s a delightful read that captures the essence of summer and the bittersweet nature of love. With vibrant characters and a captivating backdrop, it’s worth adding to your reading list.
Discover the magic of transformation in This Summer Will Be Different. >>