Book Review: Every Summer After by Carley Fortune
I was drawn to Every Summer After because I have a soft spot for coming-of-age romances, especially those with a nostalgic backdrop. The blend of summer vibes and heartfelt emotions promised by the book description intrigued me—six summers to fall in love, a call that brings someone back home after years apart, and the exploration of complex relationships. Given the emotional depth suggested in the synopsis, I couldn’t resist diving into Carley Fortune’s debut novel.
As I turned the pages, I found myself completely immersed in the world of Barry’s Bay. Through the alternating nonlinear timeline, we are introduced to Persephone "Percy" Fraser and her childhood friend, Sam Florek. Their friendship, evolving over memorable summers filled with laughter, heartache, and secrets, sets the foundation for an emotional rollercoaster. Fortune does an exceptional job of capturing the innocence and complexity of youth—a sentiment echoed by Nathalia in her review, who described the nostalgic vibes as so potent that it felt almost like living the story itself.
The book is filled with moments that tug at the heartstrings. For instance, the raw yearning between Percy and Sam is palpable; their chemistry crackles, making their connection feel real and fragile at the same time. I found the way the narrative explores themes of love, regret, grief, and personal growth to be particularly compelling. The setting, as Chelseybookishlife remarked, feels almost like a character on its own—sun-drenched and perfect, it envelops the storyline like a warm embrace.
However, while the emotional intensity kept me engaged, there were moments that felt repetitive, which some readers like MS Pepilapew voiced in their reviews. The storyline meanders through nostalgic reflections that, while rich in detail, sometimes detract from the overall pacing. A few scenes dragged on longer than necessary, and I agree that the narrative could have been more concise. Additionally, the miscommunication trope seen during the breakups felt somewhat expected, yet it worked in the context of the characters’ ages and circumstances. Still, a part of me wishes that the plot had taken a slightly different approach to this element.
On the positive side, the character development is notable. Percy and Sam’s journey from innocent friends to complicated lovers is beautifully told. I loved watching how their relationship grows deeper and more complex with each summer. As Bridget Sheppard noted, the shared experiences contribute to a natural, authentic evolution in their relationship, even if Sam occasionally made decisions that were frustrating—his character’s growth keeps us rooting for him.
Overall, Every Summer After meets the expectations set by its glowing description. Carley Fortune has crafted a story that is not merely about romance; it digs into the nuances of friendships and the choices that challenge us. Its beautifully rendered emotions stuck with me long after I flipped the last page.
If you’re looking for a heartfelt, nostalgic beach read that explores the intricacies of love, regret, and the passage of time, then Every Summer After is definitely worth your time. Just be prepared for a few emotional moments and some weighty themes interspersed with the lighthearted summer fun. Despite a few pacing issues, it is a satisfying read that left me hopeful.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend this book, especially for anyone who appreciates character-driven stories with depth. It’s a touching tribute to the complexities of love and friendship, perfectly suited for a lazy summer afternoon.
“Discover the heartwarming journey of love and nostalgia in Every Summer After.” >>